Water damage is one of the biggest nightmares for homeowners. Even a seemingly small leak can wreak absolute havoc on your belongings and your home. That's why it's so important to know what causes water damage and the signs to watch for. 

Keep reading to learn how to spot water damage before it destroys your home and health.

Dark Spots on Walls or Ceilings

Dark spots on your walls and ceilings are the most obvious early signs of water damage. Keep on the lookout for discolorations on both the interior and exterior walls of your home. Yellow or brown stains on the drywall are clear signs of water damage.

Crackling or Bubbling Paint

Cracking or bubbling drywall or paint are sure signs of water damage in walls. When large areas of your walls get wet, they'll begin to expand, which will lead to cracking. You'll notice bubbling or peeling paint if the inside of your walls is getting damp. 

Mold Growth

Mold likes to grow in areas that are warm, dark, and damp. You might smell it before you see it. Damp or musty scents are signs of water damage to keep a nose out for. 

It's essential to address mold when you see (or smell) it in your home. Mold begins to develop within 24 hours of water exposure and continue to do so until you take steps to eliminate the moisture source. 

The most common areas for mold growth are the bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, and attics. That said, it can also grow inside your walls and under your carpets if these areas are often damp.

Mold can cause serious health issues if you don't address it. People with conditions like allergies, asthma, or a compromised immune system may be more at risk for health complications. 

Soft, Sagging, or Cracked Flooring

You know to check your walls and ceilings, but don't forget to look at your flooring, too. Soft or sagging areas are clear signs of water damage. You may notice weak spots around appliances like dishwashers or washing machines or near your bathroom fixtures.

Keep an eye out for warping laminate, tile, or wood flooring, too. Laminate floors may begin to warp, and linoleum could start peeling. Tiles may start to loosen once water begins seeping into the subflooring. 

One of the most obvious signs of water damage on the foundation of your home is a sinking cellar floor. 

High Bills

If your utility bills have been much higher than usual lately for no reason, you may be dealing with a water problem. You could be wasting water without knowing it due to a hidden plumbing leak. 

You don't need to call the professionals the first month you receive a higher bill, but be diligent. If your bills are higher than average a few months in a row, keep an eye out for the physical signs of water damage. 

Call in the Pros to Help With Water Damage

If you see any of these signs of water damage in your home, it's time to call the pros. The sooner you address the damage, the less likely your home is to suffer structural damage or make you ill. 

Our professional team of flood pros can help you extract, remediate, and remove water from your home. Contact us today for a free quote on our water damage services.