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Water damage is a phrase no Portland homeowner wants to hear, but unfortunately, it can surprise even the best of us. Water can penetrate your home from many different areas. And while Portland experiences heavy rainfall every year, it doesn’t have to mean disaster.
Discovering water damage early on can help prevent it from spreading and disturbing other parts of your home. Know the signs of water damage that can alert you to underlying problems and how to avoid them.[/vc_column_text][vc_message message_box_color=”grey” icon_fontawesome=”fas fa-question-circle”]
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How Can Water Penetrate My Home?
Water damage can manifest in a variety of ways due to water penetrating your exterior and making its way into your home. Even with protective roofing and siding, water can find its way into the interior of your home, creating an interior mess, dry rot, mold, and other issues.
Here are some of the most common areas water can enter your home:
- Roof Leaks
- Siding Damage
- Leaky Windows
- Interior pipes and drain leaks
- Substandard window seals
- Faulty appliances
What Are the Signs of Water Damage?
Even though water damage can sometimes remain hidden, it is not without its signs, and knowing what to look for can save you from further damage.
Discoloration
This can be one of the easiest signs of water damage to spot. The appearance of ceiling stains, discolored walls or siding, or even peeling paint are indicators of water penetration.
Pooling Water
If you notice pools of water appearing under sinks or appliances, you likely have a leak or faulty hose, and simply cleaning up the water does not resolve the issue. If pooling water occurs, it can indicate a larger problem, which could be damaging your home.
Musty Smells
The sense of smell can be very telling for water damage. Damp, musty scents can often be from the underlying issue of water damage. Trust your nose. Resting water that has begun to mold has a significant smell, which can alert you to problems.
Sagging Ceiling or Floorboards
Water weakens structural boards. Therefore, sagging floorboards or drooping ceilings can result. Without water damage being taken care of, these boards can accumulate dry rot and spread, which can affect the whole of your house. If you notice these signs, take action!
Mold or Mildew
The appearance of excessive mold or mildew can be a clear indication that excess water is thriving in your home. They grow anywhere that moisture is present and can begin growth in less than 48 hours. Check how extensive the mold growth in your home is, and act promptly to minimize the need for repairs.
Pooling Roof Water
If you notice pools of water accumulating on your rooftop, it’s only a matter of time before that water makes its way into your home — if it hasn’t already. Gutters provide proper drainage for your roof, so ensure they are in tact. Pools of water mean improper drainage, which leads to roof leaks and damage.
What Do I Do Now?
If you discover signs of water damage in your home, all is not lost. Our LifeTime Exteriors team is ready to help. Taking swift action can prevent further damage from occurring and have your home back to its proper shape.
First, locate the source of the issue and do what you can to minimize the problem. This could mean turning off a water line if an appliance is having a serious leak or covering your roof with a temporary patch. If you cannot find the source of the problem, a roofing contractor like LifeTime can help.
Once the problem has been minimized, connect with a professional contractor for a free consolation. They can discover how extensive the damage is to help you in making an insurance claim. You should then get in contact with your insurance company to make a claim on the issue.
How Can I Prevent Water Damage?
You can take action before damage even occurs. Some solutions are simple and are a part of good home maintenance while others may require professional help.
1. You should inspect your roof on a regular basis.
Your roof takes the biggest hit from weather and climate, so immediately upon noticing lifted or cracked shingles, have them fixed or replaced. Use caution when climbing onto your rooftop. Wait for a sunny day or obtain professional help. You should also clean out gutters regularly to keep them from backing up and pooling water onto your roof.
2. Pay attention to leaks and clogs in your drains.
If leaks are occurring, seek a professional for help. Monitoring your water bill can also tell you if a leak is expending more water than normal. For clogs, snake your drain rather than use harsh chemical drain cleaners. This preserves your pipes and clears them better than the alternative. It is also important to remember that roots from trees and vegetation close to your home can wrap their roots around your pipes and cause damage. Pay attention to plants growing too large or too close to your home.
3. Pay attention to your siding.
Holes, cracks, and warping open the door for water to penetrate your home. If you see damaged or deteriorating siding, it’s time to take action. Contact a professional for an evaluation to see if you need to repair or replace your siding.
The Right Contractor for Your Needs
A licensed contractor knows what to look for when water damage plagues your home. Seeking professional help can minimize the damage and prevent further damage from occurring.
For the past 10 years, our LifeTime Exteriors team has helped hundreds of Portland homeowners know their homes are safe. With our team, you can stay in control of your home repairs to ensure your expectations are being met on your exterior.
If your home has water damage, call us at (503) 719-6644 to schedule a free consultation. We can give you peace of mind and help ensure you are living in a safe home.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
