A slow steady leak could cost you thousands in repairs
Some leaks are easily detected and repaired, but hidden water leaks in your home can cause a lot of damage and can be costly to repair. As a homeowner or renter, you can stay alert to specific signs to catch these leaks early and prevent excessive damage.
What to Look For Inside the House
The first noticeable sign of a hidden water leak in any Round Lake home is usually the smell. Water leaking behind a wall or under the floor can sometimes pool, and the smell of old water accumulating can become noticeable. Also, water soaking through drywall, wood or flooring can emanate a musty smell. If you notice this smell even after cleaning, you could have a leak.
A second sign of a water leak may present as mold in unlikely places. While mold in the corners of the shower or bathtub may be normal, mold on the walls or ceiling outside the shower or even outside the bathroom could be a sign that you have a leak. Always address mold issues immediately, as it can also be detrimental to you or your family.
The third sign of a water leak may manifest itself as damage to walls, ceilings or flooring. This is a dangerous and costly stage of any leak, and should never go ignored, not even for a few days.
Carpet may seem damp. Tile or linoleum may begin to separate from the baseboards or concrete, or you may begin to notice a discoloration of the paint or wallpaper on the walls or ceiling. If left unchecked, the walls or ceiling may begin to sag, which means you have a much larger problem and a much larger repair bill.
How to Find Hidden Leaks Outside the House
The fourth sign of a water leak is an increase in your water meter reading. The water meter registers all water usage in the house. While most people don’t regularly read their water meter, it can help detect a water leak if you suspect one.
Your monthly meter reading is part of your water bill. Compare the current month reading to last year’s bill. If the reading seems high for your normal usage at this time of year, you may have a leak.
If All Else Fails…
If you miss all of these signs, the fifth and most difficult sign to ignore is the hit to your wallet. A leak in your home can translate into high water bills. If your bill increases for no reason, start looking for the signs of a leak.
Don’t be submerged by the water in your Round Lake home. Call Duane Blanton Plumbing at (815) 781-2567 today, and get that water leak repaired now!
