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5 Signs Your Home Is Slowly Deteriorating From Water Damage

Your home is your biggest investment. It is also your place of rest and a safe haven. While things may look fine on the outside, there may be underlying issues that could destroy your space. Knowing some of the telltale signs of water damage is important for every homeowner. Check out these 5 signs water could be causing harm to your home. 

1. Cracked Foundation

If your house is old, it's definitely time for some upgrades. One thing you might have been noticing more and more is that the foundation is shifting and possibly chipping away. This could be an isolated issue, but it still shouldn't be ignored. Settling and shifting due to weather changes could be the culprit. But it could from something more complex, like a water leak. It's important to have it inspected by a contractor to determine the exact cause. 

2. Warped Walls and Floors

Have you started noticing that your furniture is shifting or walls are bowing or warping? It could be that water is getting in from the roof or exterior, leaking into the substructure of the home. Over time, water damage can lead to rotting materials and weakened floors and walls. Getting to the root of the underlying problem is time sensitive. It starts by fixing the leak and waterproofing the surrounding area by installing a sump pump, new basement flooring and a solid trenching system to pull water away.  

3. A Strong Musty Odor

While your home may appear perfect from the outside, does stepping through the door leave you almost choking on a foul, musty odor? There is no wet laundry lying around or wet dog for that matter. You clean religiously. So what's going on? Water seepage may have caused walls, carpeting and other surfaces to accumulate mold and bacteria. The result is a smelly space and poor air quality. 

4. Peeling Paint

If you're noticing peeling paint throughout your home or just in certain areas, it could be from a moisture issue. Hiring waterproofing contractors is the first step in analyzing the issue and getting to the bottom of the issue. Time is of the essence. Don't continue to repaint or make cosmetic repairs until the water seepage issue is under control and the home has a good waterproofing layer of protection from top to bottom. 

5. Water Seepage

Is there always that corner location of the basement where water trickles in after a heavy rain? It doesn't seem to be coming from anywhere else, so it's really not that big of a deal. Or is it? Over time, this crack will get bigger or water may seep to other walls, creating cracks and gaps in the foundation of your home. Having qualified waterproofing services and repairs done now will prevent your house from falling apart or getting condemned. 

The signs of home deterioration are not always clear and concise. They may be subtle and go unnoticed. Take the time now to check for any issues that could be going on behind the walls or under your home. Having a qualified waterproofing contractor come out and inspect your home is a good start. They will work with you and your budget to decide moving forward what the best option will be. Contact a company that offers waterproofing services to learn more.