Where You Should Be Checking for Water Damage | SERVPRO® of East Nashville, Madison, Goodlettsville

10/4/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding is often the cause of water damage in a home, but that is not the only instance where it can occur. There are many ways that water can damage a home, several of which occur in hidden areas.

Water damage that is not found quickly is typically more expensive to restore. Most insurance claims are nearly $7,000 when water damage is present, and many policies do not extend coverage to water damage at all. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of what you need to know about finding hidden water damage so you can address the issue quickly.

<h3to-search-for-hidden-water-damage">Where to Search for Hidden Water Damage

• Sink cabinets are a common locale. The pipes of a sink are typically tucked away in a cabinet, making it less noticeable if they begin to leak.

• Update your caulking. Caulk is a common sealant in the home, typically used around the casing of tubs and showers. Over time, it can deteriorate and let water through, but recaulking regularly can stop this.

• Be aware of drywall damage. It is difficult to tell if the structure behind drywall has been damaged, but if you have any indication that it may have been (such as a flood or a burst pipe) it is best to replace the drywall as well.

• Roof seals don’t last forever. The seals around exhaust fans and chimneys serve to keep water from seeping under the roof, but they will weaken with time. Inspect the roof often to determine when to replace these.

• The AC unit can be a culprit. The HVAC unit has a drain for the water it collects during operation, but if this drain becomes clogged, water can begin to dispense into the unit itself.

• Appliances can hide serious issues. Appliances such as washing machines use a lot of water and are rarely moved. Scoot them away from the wall on occasion to make sure there are no hidden leaks lurking.

• Exterior faucets can leak, too. Spigots outside the home are connected to water lines inside the masonry or siding and can lead to hidden leaks. Listen for the sounds of water running after it has been cut off to know for sure.

If your home has suffered water damage (even in a hidden place like one of these), we are happy to help! Give us a call right away, and we’ll get there quickly.