Water is a serious threat to a home; it can travel through your walls and floors unnoticed, causing extensive hidden damage under your nose. It gets much worse the longer the problem is left unaddressed, so it’s essential that you can recognize the early signs of water damage. If you see any of the red flags below, call a restoration company immediately.

What Are Some Red Flags You Have Water Damage?

1. Mold

Mold needs three things to grow: oxygen, an organic material to grow on, and water. As a result, it thrives in damp places.

Mold growing in any area of your home indicates there is too much moisture there, and there may a lot more mold growing hidden away behind the small visible patch. It typically grows first in bathrooms, basements, attics, garages, and under sinks.

2. Watermarks

When the drywall is consistently wet, the resulting damage will first form a stain. They are most common in ceilings when the roof is leaking, or the walls where the plumbing is. These watermarks are usually brown or yellow in color. The area may be soft to the touch.

3. Musty Smell

Mold has a musty odor to it, much like the smell of wet cardboard. You can often smell it before you can see it, especially if it’s growing inside your walls or under your flooring.

The odor first becomes obvious in spaces that aren’t as well-ventilated, such as basements and bathrooms. If the smell gets worse after a storm, then the problem is likely with the foundation since rainfall is getting through at the base of your home.

For more than 30 years, the professionals at Hudepohl Restoration have been treating water damage for the property owners of Louisville, KY, and Cincinnati, OH. They will get rid of mold and handle any remodeling needed to restore your home to pre-damage condition. Their technicians are available around the clock for emergencies and are fully licensed and insured for your protection. They’ll communicate directly with your insurance company, so you don’t need to worry about estimating or billing. Learn more on their website and call (513) 398-9691 to schedule an inspection.