Flooding from rising waters is infrequent, but other causes may lead to major destruction also. Even if this damage is hidden and gradually progressing. Crawl spaces, attics, and basements are particularly vulnerable to water damage. You will probably spot an appliance leak rather soon, but problems like those inside walls can stay completely hidden for weeks or even months. Keep an eye out for any signs of discoloration, dampness, mold, and scents. Old water stains indicate an intermittent issue. If you discover damp locations, act quickly while the issue is a lot easier to track down and has not had time to cause considerable damage.

 

A number of the men and women who call us are quite sure of where the flow is coming from, just to learn later they were wrong. That is because water can travel a significant distance, even upward, before it makes itself known. Therefore a professional review or escape detection is generally better than simply fixing what may or might not be the primary cause.

 

Have you ever noticed water stains on the ceiling? Roof leaks are likely the cause, but not necessarily. Apart from a leaky pipe in the attic, there might be condensation plumbing (or just about any surface for that matter). Having a clogged gutter or obstructed downspout water can make its way to the loft then down to the ceiling. And roof leakage is not necessarily due to bad or missing shingles. Damaged or badly installed flashing around chimneys, vent pipes, and joints can also become an issue. The seals around skylights can get old, and the skylight itself may crack.

 

Other common building leaks occur at the seals on windows and doors, in addition to in caulking where they combine the wall. Siding and stucco can be broken, and the joints between a deck and the home are also prone to leaks.

 

A bit surprisingly, clothes washers are the #1 cause of home flood and water damage. Sure, they occasionally overflow or their drain becomes clogged. But older washer hoses can burst and release a few hundred gallons of water before you know it. Water heaters are another competitor. Valves and fittings can flow, and in extreme circumstances, the tank can corrode. That may release 40, 50, or more gallons in a matter of seconds.

 

Just about any appliance that uses water may flow. So don't neglect dishwashers, garbage disposals, and ice makers. A plumbing leak that appears small might be more severe than you think. Leaky pipes can quickly release a couple hundred gallons per month, overwhelming evaporation. Sump pumps can fail, and bathtubs can float. And whether you've got central A/C or a window air conditioner, condensation can stream to where it can gradually lead to mold and other water damage.

 

As you might have gathered, what looks like a flow may, actually, be condensation. That's a frequent problem with toilets in bathrooms with showers. It's important to be certain all bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans are functioning correctly and that their vents are free of obstructions. Otherwise, you might end up needing mold remediation and repairs.

 

Condensation on windows can trickle down and lead to water damage on the frame and window sills. If you discover that frequently, consider using a dehumidifier or installing a whole-house dehumidifier.