Left untreated, water damage allows mold growth and corrodes structures. Unfortunately, water issues are far too common in homes. Be aware of these signs of impending issues so you can get proper residential water damage restoration as soon as possible.

Visible Water Stains

Inspect walls, ceilings, and flooring throughout your home for any water stains or visible moisture. Staining and wet spots likely indicate an active leak from plumbing, appliances, roof damage, flooding, or other sources. The longer water seeps into materials, the wider the stains spread as damage travels to unseen areas. Calling residential water damage restoration professionals quickly contains the issue before it escalates.

Musty Odor

Do you notice a persistent musty, damp smell in certain rooms? This mildew-like odor is a red flag for water intrusion and early mold growth. Use your nose to sniff out affected areas room by room. The odor may be faint at first but gets worse over time as mold takes hold and spreads. Tracking down and fixing the source of moisture is key to stopping the smell.

Cracked Paint or Plaster

Check walls and ceilings for hairline cracks in paint or plaster, peeling paint, and paint that appears bubbled or warped. When water seeps into drywall or plaster, it causes the material to swell and shrink as it dries, forming fissures. Left too long, severe cracking requires full drywall replacement.

Wood Warping

If you have hardwood flooring, wood furniture, or wood framing, inspect closely for warping, swelling, or bowing. As the wood absorbs moisture over time, it distorts and bows visibly. Advanced wood rot also becomes a risk that may compromise structures. Catching warping early allows restoration to focus on drying rather than full wood replacement.

Spongy Drywall

Press along walls and ceilings to feel for soft, spongy areas or drywall that indents or seems to cave in with light pressure. Wet drywall becomes very fragile and weak as moisture breaks down materials. Spongy areas signal water intrusion and possible hidden mold growth within walls.

According to the Insurance Information Institute, water damage affects around 14,000 people daily in the United States. Stay alert for any signs of water issues to avoid joining these numbers. Immediate residential water damage restoration helps repair the damage, prevent mold growth, and protect your family's health and home investment. If you suspect you have water issues in your home, we can help find the issue and repair it. Call JG Restoration as soon as you notice one or more of these warning signs.