Spotting Water Damage is Not Always Easy | SERVPRO® of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills
9/6/2022 (Permalink)
Water damage at your business can be slow moving and hard to notice. Often, it’s easy to overlook the first signs of an issue. Before you realize, it’s become a significant problem and your business needs costly repairs and cleanup.
Water damage can happen to any business owner––even those who are diligent enough to do regularly scheduled maintenance. But there are signs you can spot early that will help you correct problems and protect your investment.
Curious about what you need to look for when you’re searching for water damage? Here are some tips that may help you spot the hidden signs of leaks and damage that might be lurking in your buildings.
Most of these tips are simple and don’t require a lot of time, money, or expertise.
Your water bill is rising - Has your water bill jumped over the past few months? That can be a sign there’s a leak somewhere in your pipes. Keep an eye on your water meter, if it is jumping higher and higher, your plumbing might be leaking water somewhere. Check your fixtures and underneath any cabinets with sinks. You might notice moisture, condensation, and damage if your plumbing system has failed.
Test your toilets - If you notice water seeping from the base of any toilets in the bathrooms, that’s a clear sign. You may also see issues with the flooring around the toilet – staining or another sign of damage.
Wood has started to show signs of warping and damage - Wood can be anything from valued antique furniture to hardwood floors to windowpanes and door frames. These items can be damaged within just a few days so if you see damage or swelling, get the restoration process started sooner rather than later.
If you notice any signs of a leak, seek professional help to repair it. It will save money on your water bill and help you minimize water damage while protecting your assets.
Visible microbial growth – Mold or mildew can be a sign of leak. Water follows gravity down so if you see growth anywhere, check the surrounding areas for leaky pipes, a leaky spot on the roof, or excess moisture present.
If you see any of these signs of water damage, contact SERVPRO of Cedar Mill/Oak Hills right away. We’ll come inspect the area, find the leak, and put a plan together to make your property whole again. We pride ourselves on making it seem “Like it never even happened.”