The Top 10 Ways Your Home Is Trying To Tell You Something's Wrong
A hidden leak in your plumbing could be your worst nightmare as a homeowner. When water is leaking into places it doesn't belong, it can lead to extensive damage and costly repairs if not found and dealt with swiftly. Knowing the signs of a hidden plumbing leak can save you from significant trouble down the road, so in this blog we're going to take a look at the top 10 signs that you have a plumbing leak - and the steps you should take to immediately address it when you see them.
1. An Unexplained Increase In Water Bills
It always hits your wallet first. One of the things you'll notice if you've got a leak is that your water bill could see a massive jump even if your usage hasn't changed. That's because you're still paying for all that water that's leaking from your pipes. It's a good idea to periodically compare your water bills for the total amount you owe and your usage so you're aware of any unusual spikes that could be a sign something is up.
2. Mold & Mildew Growth
A damp environment is like paradise to mold and mildew. If you notice them growing in unusual places, like your walls, floors or ceilings, it could be due to a water leak. In particular, keep an eye out for places that aren't usually exposed to moisture - bedrooms, offices, living rooms - as that can be a clear indication there's a problem.
3. Musty Odors
Is your home smelling a little foul these days? Persistent musty odors are usually a sign there's excessive water accumulation somewhere due to a leak. Even if you aren't able to see it, mold and mildew can put a musty smell out throughout your home, so don't ignore the stink if you smell it.
4. Stains & Discoloration
If your walls, ceilings, or floors have those telltale reddish-orange water stains, it's almost a guarantee you've got a leak happening somewhere. Not only are they a sign there's a problem, but the longer that problem remains, the weaker your structure will get over time as a result of the accumulated water damage. Give the experts a call immediately.
5. Warped Or Sagging Floors
We all want to stand on a firm foundation. None of us want the floors in our home to be more akin to a funhouse. If you notice any warping, sagging or buckling in your floors, it's possible there's a water leak under your feet that is weakening the structure. Mostly this happens with wooden floors, but any time of floor is susceptible.
6. Peeling Or Bubbling Paint & Wallpaper
Water damage causes paint to bubble up or wallpaper to life away from your walls. When you notice this happen - especially in locations where there's not normally water around - there's a good chance you've got a hidden leak - and a need for new paint.
7. Reduced Water Pressure
A sudden drop in water pressure can be a sign of a leak somewhere in your plumbing system. If only one fixture is affected, the leak might be nearby. However, if the water pressure drops throughout your home, the leak could be in a main water line.
8. Unusual Sounds
When all the water is off in your home but you hear water running, you've either got a maritime ghost or an annoying leak. Keep an ear out for the sound of water running or the hiss of a leak behind walls, under floors, or in the basement - and if you do notice it, contact a professional to investigate further.
9. Cracks In The Foundation
In severe cases, hidden leaks can cause the soil beneath your home's foundation to erode, leading to cracks in the foundation. If you notice new or widening cracks in your foundation, it's important to investigate for potential water leaks.
10. High Humidity Levels
We're all used to excessively humid days outside - but it shouldn't be happening inside your home. If your indoor humidity has been on the rise with no other apparent cause, it could indicate a hidden leak. Not only that, but that increase in moisture promotes the growth of mold or mildew anywhere in your home, so you need to arrest the issue quickly.
What To Do If You Suspect A Hidden Leak
If you notice any of the above signs, it's important to take action quickly. These are the best steps you can immediately take:
- Check Your Water Meter: First, turn off all the water fixtures in your home. Then go check out your meter. If it's running, then your home is still using water somehow, which means it's leaking out before it even gets to your fixtures.
- Inspect Common Leak Areas: Check around for leaks in the usual suspects, like under your sinks, around your toilets, or near water heaters.
- Call A Professional: If you're unable to locate the leak, or aren't able to address it yourself, then contact a professional plumber like your friends here at Grogg's. We've got specialized tools and extensive training to help us identify the location of leaks and provide lasting repairs.
Contact Grogg's Home Services
Hidden plumbing leaks can cause significant damage if left untreated. By staying vigilant and recognizing the signs early, you can prevent extensive damage and costly repairs. If you suspect a hidden leak, don't hesitate to reach out to Grogg's Home Services, based in Clarksburg, WV. Our team of experienced professionals is equipped to detect and repair hidden leaks, ensuring your home stays safe and dry. To take the first step toward a leak-free home, message us online or call 304-863-3553 today!