Water damage is one of many things a homeowner may experience throughout the years. Some damages are easy to fix, while some require thorough inspections and extra sets of hands. One of the trickiest home problems is water leaks—while it’s easy to assume that water damage is easy to detect, the reality is a far cry from the notion. Water damage is usually hidden, as they can seep into your walls, under your floorboards, and other parts of your house.

Other symptoms aren’t as straightforward, either—water damage can take on different textures, colors, and even smells, depending on the damage location. In other words, detecting potential water damage is never an easy feat. Luckily, there are ways to identify the problem—all you need to do is learn the telltale signs:

Sign #1: Sudden water accumulation

It’s easy to assume that water accumulation is a result of a broken water heater but in more ways than one, this is an obvious sign that you’re dealing with water damage. The presence of pooling water can occur from a leaking roof, burst drainage pipes, and other possible sources. It’s best to investigate thoroughly before calling the professionals, so they’d know what to expect.

Sign #2: Presence of discoloration

Water damage usually occurs on your walls and ceilings, so look for stains and water spots. An area subject to prolonged exposure to water may appear wet, thereby developing the hues of brown, yellow, or even copper. If your walls are painted or decorated with wallpaper, look for signs of peeling, bubbling, and cracking.

Sign #3: Changes in texture

As previously noted, water damage can occur in areas not apparent to you. Your floorboards can suffer from extensive water damage without your knowledge, and the only way to know for sure is to examine the texture. Here are some of the most common signs:

• Expansion: Floors usually expand when absorbing too much water
• Warping: Floors usually curl or create gaps
• Buckling: Floors face upward and detach from the substrate
• Sagging: Floors become soft due to rotting

Sign #4: Lurking odors

Sudden odors signify an extensive water damage problem. The smell usually comes from the growth of mildew and mold, which grows from walls, basements, and other areas subjected to long exposure of water. Once mold develops, a putrid odor ensues and black spots will appear.

Your Home Shows Signs of Water Damage—Now What?

It’s incredibly normal to worry about the cost of repairs, especially since water damage can be tricky to deal with. Unfortunately, the only way to avoid costly repairs is to take care of the damage immediately—prolonging it means further damage, and further damage means more expensive repairs.

Water damage will eventually seep into the rest of your home, weakening the structure. Furthermore, ignoring the signs will cause it to thrive more, ultimately allowing water and mold top penetrate your personal items.

The best way to deal with water damage is to call on the professionals. Beginning clean up and repair right away keeps expensive costs away, and the possibility of further damage will be prevented.

If you’re on the hunt for water damage restoration in Salt Lake City, AAA Restoration is the best place to call. Water damage can be detrimental to your overall health at home, but our professionals are committed to helping you get back on track.

With professionalism and efficiency, we’re ready to restore your home. For more information, reach out to us today.