Top Signs It’s Time to Call a Water Damage Restoration Professional

No homeowner wants to deal with water damage, but it’s an unfortunate reality many face at some point. According to statistics, over 14,000 homes experience water damage every single day in the United States. While some cases may seem minor, it’s important to address water issues promptly before they escalate into bigger problems. As a professional blogger focused on home improvement, I’ve researched the top signs that indicate your home likely needs professional water damage repair services.

Musty Odors

One of the most obvious signs of water damage is a persistent musty or moldy smell in your home. Mold spores begin spreading as soon as wood and other porous materials get wet. Even after you’ve dried out the area, odors can linger if mold is present. Call in a water damage restoration expert if you notice unpleasant smells that won’t go away – they have equipment like fans and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry your home and remove mold.

Warped Wood

Has your hardwood flooring or trim started to cup upward in spots? Wood warping is a telltale sign it absorbed excess moisture over time. Warped subfloors can damage flooring and cause structural issues if left unaddressed.

A water damage repair expert can assess how badly the wood is compromised and whether sections need replacement. They’ll also dry everything thoroughly to prevent further damage.

Peeling Wallpaper or Paint

Wallpaper or paint that is peeling away from walls, especially in basement areas or near plumbing lines, is a red flag. Moisture trapped behind these surfaces allows mold to flourish. Have a water damage restoration contractor evaluate where moisture is entering so they can perform the necessary repairs to prevent future incidents. They’ll also remove and dispose of any compromised materials.

Stains on Ceilings or Walls

Seeing discolored patches or rings high up on interior surfaces could indicate a roof leak or other overhead plumbing issue. Don’t ignore water stains, as they’re a sign moisture has penetrated building materials. A pro can pinpoint the source and make repairs to stop active leaks before recommending the best remediation process. They have tools to check for hidden moisture, too.

Bubbling or Cracked Grout

Bathroom grout that appears cracked, loose, or bubbled is a moisture problem waiting to get worse. Water seeping behind the tile can damage backer boards and walls. 

Have a contractor assess the severity and perform necessary repairs like regrouting. They may also need to check for leaks in pipes or fixtures that could be the root cause.

Soft or Bulging Areas on Floors

If part of your floor feels spongy or looks slightly swollen, water has likely penetrated and damaged subflooring materials below. Don’t walk on soft spots, as they could collapse. A water damage repair pro can make strategic cuts and check for mold growth underneath. They’ll extract moisture with dehumidifiers and advise the best restoration approach, like subfloor replacement if extensively compromised.

Musty Smelling Wall Cavities

Using a moisture meter, a pro may find high humidity readings behind walls in problem areas even if you can’t smell mold. This indicates moisture is trapped where you can’t see. Ignoring this issue could lead to costly repairs down the line as mold spreads. It’s best to have wall cavities properly inspected.

Increased Humidity Levels

Continuously high indoor humidity levels, especially in the problem room, may point to an active leak or long-standing moisture issue that needs professional attention. A water repair contractor has the tools and experience to pinpoint moisture sources, perform necessary repairs, and restore your home to a dry, healthy state using equipment like dehumidifiers and air movers.

Discolored or Buckling Baseboards

Baseboards or trim that appear discolored, soft, or pulling away from walls near plumbing lines or flooring are a warning sign. Moisture is compromising these materials, allowing mold issues to develop behind. 

The sooner you notice these signs, the better chance a water damage restoration professional has to quickly address the problem before extensive damage occurs. Don’t ignore moisture issues, as they can lead to mold growth, structural compromising, and expensive repairs down the line. With the right expertise, most water problems are very manageable when caught early. Call the experts for a free inspection if you suspect water damage in your home.