Where Hidden Water Damage Can Be Found | SERVPRO® of Western Dutchess County

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

You'd be surprised how much damage water can do! Be familiar with the terms of your homeowner's insurance policy and call SERVPRO right away!

While extreme rains and heavy flooding will increase the chances of water damage, these are not the only reasons it will occur. Many things in the home can cause water damage, and quite a few of them occur in places that are easily missed.

If water damage is left untreated, it can become more severe, which is why hidden water damage is so dangerous. Most water damage claims are more than $6,500, and it’s not uncommon for insurance to not accept water-related claims at all. Knowing where to find hidden water damage can make a big difference in how much of a headache it will be to treat.

Where to Look for Water Damage

• Below exterior windows- The seal around a window is not the most durable piece of construction, so it can slowly begin to let water seep into the wood below with time.
• Connection points of siding- Where siding overlaps or meets a corner, it is sealed against the elements. However, damage to the siding can also mean damage to the seal, leaving the plywood below exposed to water.
• Below threshold panels- Thresholds are typically covered by a metal panel, but this panel is not water-tight. If it is frequently exposed to weather, the wood below can become waterlogged and swollen eventually.
• Exterior painted surfaces- Multiple layers of paint can form miniature gaps between them, letting water in and causing the paint to bubble or soften.
• Within dishwasher cubbies- It is not typical to move the dishwasher unless it is being replaced, but often homeowners discover water damage during the upgrade process. Inspecting it regularly will help ensure there are no surprises.
• Inside bathroom walls- Water pipes heading toward the sink or tub can begin to leak with time, causing water spots in the paint as the water seeps into the wall.
• Around toilets- A toilet has many seals to keep water in, but these can become weaker with time. Many homeowners will not notice until the floor begins to feel unsteady and the toilet develops a wobble.

If your home has suffered water damage (even in a hidden place like one of these), we are happy to help! SERVPRO of Western Dutchess County has certified water remediation experts, don't wait! Give us a call right away, and we’ll get there quickly.