Are you buying a home in Eldersburg and if so, do you know how to spot water damage?

Water damage can wreck a home in no time. Drywall and carpeting can become moldy, warp wooden furniture and rot your floors. There are some tried and true ways of spotting water damage before you sign that offer to purchase agreement.

Drips – can be a red flag. Make sure the water going to the house is turned on and check all faucets for leaks. By turning the water on and off, you will be able to see if the water stops completely. Also listen for drips from the faucets including the sinks and bathtubs and shower heads. The leak may have been going on for years and the damage may not show until the floor begins to buckle.

Musty Smells – or moldy smells, particularly in the bathrooms, basement or garage indicate previous or ongoing water damage. If there is any discoloration on the walls or floorboards, then these are most likely visible signs of mold. A good home inspector makes use of an infrared camera to spot mold or water damage.

Shingles – that are dimpled, loose, discolored or missing can indicate water damage or be a warning sign of leaks to come. If you are home hunting in the winter, look to see if there are eave icicles hanging down. That is an indication of an ice dam which can cause water damage.

Windows - and door frames should not have any gaps between the wall and the sills. Look for discolored wood or peeling caulk. Make sure the damaged wood gets repaired or replaced and located the source of the water so the new wood doesn’t get damaged as well.

After the storm – is a great way to see if there is water damage. Check out the exterior immediately after a storm to see where the water is/was flowing. Check to make sure the ground is sloping away from the house and see where the gutter runoff ends up. Pay close attention to the foundation and crawlspace. If you feel any dampness, this could be a sign of water damage.

If you require water damage restoration, contact Restoration 1 of Eldersburg for an accurate quote.