Water damage restoration costs average around $3,500 nationwide.
The real problem with water damage is that it often happens in places you can’t see – under floorboards, behind walls, and above ceilings. Only when the damage becomes serious does it show itself.
Yet there are early warning signs if you know where to look, and ignoring them poses risks to your health and your home’s resale value.
Read on to understand the signs of bathroom water damage you should never ignore.
Sign #1: Visible Mildew and Mold
Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments. That’s why it’s natural for small amounts of mold to accumulate in your bathroom – particularly if you don’t air it out regularly after a shower.
Yet concentrated mold and mildew are almost always a sign that something is wrong.
It usually starts as small spots that quickly spread across walls and ceilings. It doesn’t just affect the look and feel of your bathroom; mold and mildew pose health risks that can’t be ignored.
Chronic exposure to mold can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
If you’re frequently noticing mold in your bathroom, it’s a sign of bathroom leaks that hint at a larger problem. Addressing this issue early will not only prevent further damage but also ensure the health and safety of your family.
Sign #2: Unpleasant Odors and Musty Smells
Bad smells that don’t seem to go away are another sign of water damage in your bathroom.
Such odors often carry a musty, damp quality similar to the smell of rotten wood or wet cardboard. Usually, this is because of the growth of bacteria that produce such odors.
If such smells persist even after a deep clean, it’s likely due to water damage that you can’t see. More than just a nuisance, these odors will impact your home’s air quality and cause further damage over time.
Sign #3: Stains and Peeling Paint
Peeling paint and unexplained stains are both signs of bathroom water damage you shouldn’t sweep under the rug. Water stains often look like brown or yellow spots on walls and ceilings and usually occur when water seeps through drywall or plaster.
Peeling paint (or wallpaper) also hints at unseen water damage. Water can separate the adhesives in paint and wallpaper, causing it to peel. And if you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to address the underlying cause before it becomes a real problem.
Consequences of Ignoring Bathroom Water Damage
Water damage accrues over a long time.
And while the effects are subtle at first, they will cause extensive damage to your home – and potentially your health – if left untreated. Severe water damage can lead to structural instability, lowering your home’s resale price, while the persistent buildup of mold poses risks to your health.
When you notice the signs of damage, it’s crucial to seek the services of a water damage repair company to fix the damage. They have the necessary expertise to diagnose and fix problems fast – and they’ll save you a lot of money in the long run.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Bathroom water damage is a serious problem that won’t go away on its own. Visible mold, weird and nasty smells, and stains and peeling paint are all signs that something is very wrong.
If you take action fast, you’ll save more money on repair costs – so don’t wait.
Cutting Edge Restoration works with insurance companies to fix problems fast across California. Book a consultation call here.
