[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Water damage is not as easily detectable as homeowners would like it to be. At a given point in time, about 60% of homeowners have water damage in their basements that they are not aware of. If not attended to, water in the basement can lead to growth of mold and mildew. Both require professional removal and that can be costly. In addition, they can negatively impact on your family�s health. These necessitate the need to familiarize with the signs of water damage in basements.
Listen for leaks
Sometimes all it takes for a basement to flood with water is a mere leak. It starts small and gradually, the water volume in your basement builds up. Should you suspect a leak, check out the source of the leak and have it fixed as soon as possible. You should also consider listening for leaks every time it rains. Make sure that the house is as quiet as possible. Turn off the heating and air system, TV or any other utilities in your house. Once that is done, stand in various parts of the house and listen for potential leaks.
Look for water stains
Water stains are the most obvious sign of water damage and if you can spot them in your house and not just the basement, there�s a �big reason to worry. They may accumulate on walls, floors or even ceilings. Whether you just moved in or have been living in your house for several years, water stains in your basement should be reported to and dealt with by professionals. Not dealing with it in time could make the damage to your house worse. If you are interested in purchasing a house, ensure that all water issues are handled before moving in.
Feel for buckling
In relation to wood floors, buckling refers to incidences where the floor peels off the subfloor. Lifting of the floor from the subfloor creates a space in which water can settle in. Most of the time, buckling occurs because the floor has been flooded with water for a while. When not visible, buckling can be diagnosed by taking a simple walk around the room. It can also be caused by incorrect subfloors, incorrect nails and insufficient nailing. Buckling is often a sign if extensive floor damage as well as a serious waterproofing issue that need to be addressed by professionals.
Smell it out
You cannot always rely on vision to detect water damage. In such cases, the sense of smell comes in handy. Mold and mildew are easily detectable if you smell the corners in your basement. Depending on the stage of growth, the smell may be misty or strongly pungent. It becomes more pronounced if the water damage is extensive.
Water damage in basements can be caused by a number of factors, including leaking pipes and heavy storms. Whatever the cause, it�s important to a jump on the damage before it becomes extensive. Better yet, prevent it by having professionals do waterproofing in Toronto for your basement before and after construction.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]