Determining the age of water damage in your house or place of business can be challenging, to say the least. New homeowners, apartment renters, property owners between tenants, and even those just remodeling frequently find themselves concerned when they discover water damage. So the question is, is this minor damage that only has to be cleaned up? Is it damage that has previously been addressed and is no longer a danger? Or is there something more serious that calls for the help of a seasoned cleanup and restoration company?
Knowing how recent the damage is will help you decide what has to be done for repair. Here are a few ways to determine the age of water damage:
Know the History of the Building
Pipes, fixtures, and entire water systems are among the many parts of older homes that have been updated or repaired throughout time. The chance of leaks or malfunctions rises with the age of these parts. Attempt to learn as much as you can about the history of the building and any fixes that prior owners may have done. Older fixtures may be more vulnerable to water damage, so pay close attention to such areas.
Take a Look Around
To ascertain the age and extent of the water damage, look for visual cues. Deterioration indicators like peeling paint, bubbling materials, or discoloration point to extended moisture exposure. On the walls, floors, or ceilings, dark smears or rings suggest that water damage has happened. Given how quickly mold grows, its presence is a reliable indicator of prior or ongoing water damage.
Determine the Damage by Touch
To get more hints, touch the afflicted area if it’s safe to do so. Is the surface smooth, firm, or wet? Important information about the age of the damage can be gleaned from the texture.
Contact ServeKings for assistance if you require a property inspection. The initial step involves a preliminary evaluation, during which our experts will ascertain the extent of the damage and identify any potentially dangerous elements, such as asbestos or lead, before deciding on the best course of action. Keep in mind that failing to identify water damage might have expensive consequences, so you should take quick action.