Signs of Water Damage on Walls: What's the Next Step?

6 min read

Water damage poses a serious concern for homeowners as it can silently wreak havoc behind walls. If left undetected for too long, it compromises a property’s structural integrity and even puts the residents’ health at risk. Therefore, it’s crucial to watch out for unmistakable red flags to take the necessary steps in confronting these signs.

What Causes Water Damage on Walls?

Noticing water damage on your walls can be caused by a multitude of issues. However, understanding the cause of the problem is the key to an effective and timely resolution. The following are the most common causes:

• Natural Disasters: Rainfall, flood, or storms subject a property to excessive water. This leads to the walls soaking up moisture, ultimately leading to water damage.
• Plumbing Issues: Water infiltration resulting from burst pipes, leaky faucets, or malfunctioning appliances leads to the introduction of moisture into the structure. As a result, the walls warp or soften over time.
• Condensation: Condensation forms on walls when the property has insufficient ventilation. This steady accumulation of moisture leads to water damage if left unaddressed.
• Roof Leaks: Damaged or poorly maintained roofs allow rainwater to seep into the home, potentially causing extensive water damage to walls and ceilings. Prompt identification and repair of roof leaks is essential to prevent this from occurring.
• Faulty Gutters: Clogged or damaged drains can’t effectively redirect rainwater away from the property. Instead, water may overflow and saturate the walls.

The time it takes for water damage to become visibly apparent varies depending on several factors, including the water source and the materials affected. In some cases, signs of wear are noticeable within hours or days. However, more extensive issues, particularly within wall cavities or structural components, take weeks or even months to become visible.

5 Tell-Tale Signs of Water Damage on Walls

Hidden issues can worsen over time and lead to costly repairs if left unattended, so it’s best to enlist professional experts to inspect your property for signs of water damage in Bergen County.

Take note of the following signs:

1. Stains or Discoloration

Stains or discoloration on your walls are often the first visual cues of water damage. These marks usually appear in shades of brown, beige, or yellow and vary in size. They indicate that water has already seeped into the material, causing it to become stained.

It’s essential to address the underlying issue as soon as possible. Ignoring it by applying a fresh coat of paint over the discoloration can unfortunately lead to more damage.

Professional water damage restoration services can identify the root cause of the issue. This, in turn, keeps properties dry, safe, and free from structural harm.

2. Flaking, Bubbling, or Peeling Paint

Another unmistakable sign of an underlying issue is the appearance of paint bubbling on wall water damage. When moisture seeps into the wall’s surface, it causes the paint or wallpaper to bubble, crack, or peel away.

Paint issues often indicate ongoing moisture intrusion. Addressing the cause is essential to prevent further deterioration of the structure and the potential bacterial growth. As soon as you spot paint bubbling on wall water damage, it’s often a clear sign that professional assistance is needed.

3. Soft or Swollen Drywall

Water-damaged walls often exhibit the unsettling sign of soft or swollen drywall. When drywall absorbs moisture, it loses its integrity and becomes fragile. You may notice areas of your wall that feel soft to the touch, appear bloated, or have a visibly altered texture.

4. Musty Odors

Among the many signs of water damage is a persistent musty odor. If you notice a must smell emanating from a particular area of your wall, it could be a subtle yet significant indicator of hidden moisture and potential microbial growth.

5. Bacterial Growth

Bacterial growth thrives in damp environments and can appear as discolored patches ranging from green and black to white. These not only mar the aesthetics of your space but also pose health risks.

To make matters worse, attempting to remove bacterial growth with ordinary cleaning solutions is insufficient. It often returns unless the moisture source is addressed. Therefore, it’s crucial to seek help from experts specializing in both water damage restoration and mold removal to restore the property to a safe and healthy environment.

What To Do When Dealing With Wall Water Damage in Bergen County?

Water damage is a distressing situation for any homeowner in Bergen County. If you find yourself in this predicament, here are some crucial steps to take to prevent further structural harm and potential health risks.

Ensure Safety First

Prioritize your safety before addressing wall water damage. Turn off the electricity supply to the affected area to minimize the risk of electrical hazards. If the water damage is extensive or there are safety concerns, consider evacuating the premises until professionals can assess the situation.

Identify the Source of Water

Determining the source of the water intrusion is vital. If it’s a plumbing issue, such as a burst pipe, shut off the water supply to that area or the entire house if necessary. If the problem is related to your roof, temporarily cover or patch the ceiling to prevent further water entry.

Document the Issue

Take photos and document the extent of the water damage in Bergen County. There’s a good chance that your homeowner’s insurance policy will provide financial coverage, but it’s still essential to have clear documentation to support your claim.

Mitigate Further Damage

Act quickly to mitigate further damage. Remove any valuable or easily damaged items from the affected area. Place plastic sheets or tarps on the floor to prevent water from seeping into the subfloor or spreading to other areas of your home.

Contact the Professionals

While you can take some initial steps to address the issue, consulting with professionals is highly recommended. Restoration experts in Bergen County know what water damage on a ceiling or wall indicates. They have the knowledge, equipment, and experience to assess the extent of the problem accurately and develop a comprehensive restoration plan.

Restoration 1: Safeguarding Your Home Against the Long-Term Consequences of Water Damage

Restoration 1 is your trusted ally in times of crisis. When disaster strikes, our team is always ready to go above and beyond to deliver top-notch restoration and repair services. With us, you don’t have to worry about the details – we handle everything, from assessment to cleanup, all with meticulous precision and care.

Restoration 1 of Bergen County is a licensed and insured team, giving you peace of mind throughout the restoration process. Additionally, our services are backed by insurance, so you can rest easy knowing your property will be restored to its best condition without any financial burden.

Don’t let disasters disrupt your life any longer. We offer 100% free estimates and consultations, making it easy to get the help you need no matter the time of day.

Contact us today.