Tips for Doing an At-Home Water Damage Inspection | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

Preserving the longevity of your home is so important to protect your investment, and there are few things that can be as detrimental to this as untreated water damage. While cosmetic issues are a concern for sure, water damage can also lead to severe structural issues within your home if it is not quickly addressed.

While you should always call in a professional if you notice water damage, you can often check around the house yourself to look for any signs. This can prevent costly homeowners insurance claims if it is caught early and significantly reduce the headache associated with restoration.

How Can I Look for Water Damage at Home?

Inspect your walls and ceilings. Because water damage is often so evident on drywall and ceilings, this is a good place to start your search. Look for water spots, discoloration or blistering anywhere along the walls or ceiling, as these can indicate water damage is present. Also pay close attention to door and window frames that lead to the exterior of the home, as these can allow water to seep in when it rains.

Don’t forget to look down. Because floors are the lowest point in every room, water can pool underneath them if there is an issue somewhere else in the room. Subfloors can become saturated with moisture quickly, leading to buckling or a wavy appearance in the floor above. Your nose can also point you in the right direction—if you notice a musty odor, there is likely an issue.

Inspect your roof. It is important to keep your roof in good shape to make sure it is keeping out all the elements it can when it rains. A pair of binoculars can give you valuable insights into the quality of your roof and help you spot any loose shingles or peeling places. Additionally, it is smart to check that your gutters are doing their job the next time it rains to prevent water from building up around your foundation.

Pay close attention to the basement. Damp basements used to be considered a given, but we know now how dangerous untreated water damage can be even if it is under your home. Watch out for a musty feeling in the air, signs water is seeping down the walls or any mold growth, all of which are clear signs that there is damage present.

If you have water damage anywhere in your home, we are here to help. You can contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damages. Get in touch today to speak with a water damage restoration expert.