Visible water damage is easy to spot and address, but hidden water damage is a far more insidious threat. Often undetected until it’s too late, it can lead to extensive and costly repairs. For homeowners in suburban Chicago, recognizing the signs of this hidden menace early is key to preventing serious damage. Here’s how you can stay one step ahead and protect your home.
What causes water damage in Chicagoland?
Chicago is a city of four seasons and all of them can cause water intrusions. In spring, for instance, severe thunderstorms are commonplace. Annually, 38 have been recorded in the surrounding areas during the peak months of the warm season (April to October).
Suburban basements may become flooded by heavy rainstorms. Strong winds accompanying the storms force rainwater through cracks or gaps in the foundation and damaged areas. Storms and lightning can also damage roofs; and, loose shingles give rainwater a place to enter.
The Midwest is known for harsh winters, with snowfall averaging 38.4 inches, per the National Weather Service. As the weather warms, snowmelt seeps into unmaintained roofs and around foundations. Ice dams along the roofs are known for causing major water damage.
Other causes of water damage are burst pipes, which are prevalent during suburban Chicago’s cold season. Uninsulated pipes in unheated areas are vulnerable to rupturing when the temperatures drop to below freezing and spilling vast amounts of water that damage the home.
Leaky or otherwise malfunctioning appliances that run on water are also culprits. From the dishwasher to the washing machine, a broken appliance can spew water and cause water damage. Plus, if the sump pump fails at a crucial time, it can lead to major water damage in the basement.
Our skilled water damage restoration crews arrive at your home in Chicago promptly after your call
How do homeowners identify a hidden water leak?
1. High Water Bill
A hidden leak is hard to detect. But certain signs point to a leak, like a higher-than-usual water bill when no extra water is being used. Musty odors indicate the presence of mold or mildew, which thrive in moisture-rich areas. Humid rooms, like bathrooms, are often prime habitats for mold.
2. Stains on Ceilings
Discolored rings or stains on the ceiling are indicative of water damage. While homeowners check the ceiling, they should also examine the corners where the ceiling meets the walls; when visible discoloration appears in these areas, it can reveal hidden moisture damage, too.
3. Soft Walls
Walls that feel spongy or soft to the touch reveal the presence of water damage. This is because moisture weakens the drywall and causes them to become less rigid. As a result, the walls bulge, swell or warp. Waves may develop on the surface, further signs of water infiltration.
4. Warped Floors
Hidden damage may exist under wooden floorboards. Similar to the warped walls, floorboards that harbor moisture begin to warp. Whether due to leaks, spills, or seasonal humidity, water exposure causes the wood to expand and contract unevenly; cupping and buckling are the visible outcomes.
5. Bubbling Paint
Another reliable indication of water damage in suburban Chicago homes is bubbling paint. The water caught between the paint and wall causes the former to lift, forming bubbles in the process. Bubbling paint occurs when water seeps into the ceilings, such as from roof leaks or plumbing problems.
6. Dampness
Unexplained dampness or water condensation are key indicators of an undetected water leak. Condensation should not be forming on the walls or countertops. If it does, it may be due to excessive humidity or a concealed leak in the vicinity.
7. Dripping Sounds
Hearing dripping noises is a clear sign of a leak. But sometimes flowing water produces different sounds, such as scratching or rushing. Homeowners who hear unusual sounds when the home is quiet should check for a hidden water leak. Significant water damage may be occurring.
Why is hidden water damage serious?
Concealed water leaks cost homeowners a significant amount in repair costs and damages. Especially in storage areas, like attics and basements, the moisture endangers the possessions in its wake, such as electronics, clothing, books, and furniture. Replacing these items is costly.
An increase in the water bill can shock homeowners. Oftentimes, a slow, undetected water leak is responsible. Depending on the severity of the leak, it can raise a water bill by 10 percent each month. A large leak can increase the water bill by hundreds to thousands of dollars.
Water damage should be addressed right away; otherwise, it can cause severe structural damage to the property. The wood used to support the home is compromised, leading to safety concerns for the occupants. Drywall materials degrade upon exposure to moisture and metals corrode.
Health issues, especially in people with existing respiratory conditions, arise in homes where water damage causes mold infestations. Mold exposure is known to cause a range of health symptoms, such as asthma, respiratory infections, and severe allergic reactions in some people.
Professional Water Damage Restoration
Hidden water damage is a serious event. Homes in suburban Chicago are susceptible to water damage, whether due to adverse weather, failed appliances, or ruptured pipes. When you face water damage of any size, consult the pros at ServiceMaster S&R Systems.
Our skilled water damage restoration crews arrive at your home promptly after your call. We assess the extent of water damage and formulate a cleanup plan. Our objective is to return your property to its pre-loss state as soon as possible so you can return to your daily routine.
We begin by locating and repairing the source of the water damage, which may be concealed behind walls, above ceilings, or beneath carpets—or evident, such as indoor flooding. Our technicians utilize moisture detection equipment to pinpoint the cause of the excess moisture.
Specialists then extract the standing water using powerful water extraction machinery. Dehumidification equipment is positioned throughout the premises to accelerate the drying of structures and furnishings. We deodorize the area, remove mold infestations, and offer expert tips on mold prevention.
When you identify hidden water damage in your suburban Chicago home, act fast and call ServiceMaster S&R Systems. We’re proud to serve residential properties in Aurora, IL and the surrounding communities. Offering 24/7 availability, we’ll restore your water-damaged home efficiently and swiftly.
