While a burst pipe is hard to ignore, other water leaks are less obvious. It’s tough to detect water damage when it’s taking place behind your walls, but there are plenty of signs to look for. Check your home for these sights and sounds, and call a plumber if you find any.

5 Signs of a Hidden Water Leak

1. Strong Odors

Water with nowhere to go will get absorbed by wood and other materials, which leads to a musty smell. Moisture also contributes to the growth of mold and mildew, which also cause an unpleasant scent. Strong odors may also be accompanied by visual clues, such as dark spots, on the wall itself.

2. Peeling Paint & Wallpaper

Excessive moisture can also cause defects like peeling or bubbling paint to form on walls. Wallpaper can also curl when there’s a water leak, separating at the seams near the source. 

3. High Water Bills

Unless your water expenditure changes, your bill should be roughly the same from month to month. If it suddenly spikes, an unseen water leak could be increasing the cost. 

4. Foundation Cracks

Leaking pipes may also cause serious issues in your home if left unchecked. If the structural components of your home are damaged by water, cracks could form in the foundation. This is a serious issue, so call a plumber to address the leak immediately.

5. Warped Walls

When walls become saturated with water, they can become warped and distorted, leading to structural damage if the leak isn’t addressed. Ceilings and floors may also buckle over a prolonged period of exposure to wetness. 

Reader Plumbing & Septic will help you find and fix water leaks throughout your home. These plumbing professionals offer over four decades of experience in bathroom remodeling, plumbing repair, and maintenance. Services include drain cleaning, pipe repair, repair of septic systems, water heater repair, fixture installation, and more. They also provide emergency services, even on weekends. Call (920) 788-2527 today to schedule an appointment in Kaukauna or Freedom, WI. For more information on their services, visit their website.