With water damage, time is of the essence. In this article, water damage restoration expert Jessica Rinfret shares how to know if you have water damage and what to do (and not do) about it.
Residential Water Damage Checklist
| DO | DON'T |
|---|---|
| Know the signs | Ignore small leaks or damp areas |
| Inspect the home to find the source | Assume it's dry just because it looks dry |
| Cut off electricity to affected areas (if safe) | Attempt to DIY large areas of damage or sewage-contaminated water |
| Remove standing water quickly | Turn on electrical appliances near standing water |
| Increase airflow with fans and dehumidifiers (when safe) | Leave wet materials sitting |
| Remove wet materials and belongings | Use household cleaners on sewage-contaminated water |
| Monitor for hidden moisture | |
| Call a professional if water is contaminated |
What Causes Water Damage, and Why Is It Common in Denver Homes?
Water damage can be caused by anything from damaged supply lines to storm damage or an unnoticed roof leak.
Homes throughout the Denver metro area are particularly vulnerable to water damage due to several factors:
- Common Home Characteristics: Many homes along the Colorado Front Range have finished basements with window wells, drywall interiors, insulation-filled wall cavities, and hardwood flooring.
- Seasonal Weather Conditions: Frozen pipes during winter, heavy spring storms, and aging plumbing systems are all common causes of water damage in Denver homes.
Knowing the signs of water damage can help you catch problems early and prevent further damage.
What Does Water Damage Look Like?
Water damage isn't always immediately obvious. In many cases, moisture develops behind walls, under flooring, or inside ceilings before visible damage appears.
Homeowners should watch for the following warning signs.
Signs of Water Damage in Walls
- Brown or yellow discoloration
- Bubbling paint
- Peeling drywall or wallpaper
Signs of Water Damage in Ceilings
- New or expanding stains & discoloration
- Sagging or bowed sections
Signs of Water Damage in Floors
- Warped or buckling floors
- Soft or "spongy" feel underfoot
- Damp or musty-smelling carpet
General Changes to Watch for
- Visible mold growth
- Musty smells
- Unusual sounds, like dripping/running water or gurgling sounds
- Increased water bills
- Unexpected humidity in areas of the home
If you notice any of these signs, take action quickly to reduce damage and restoration costs.
What to Do if You Have Water Damage
Step 1: Ensure Safety First
Turn off electricity in affected areas to avoid electrocution and steer clear of any standing water near electrical sources. If there is significant standing water or it's near electrical components, call a professional.
Step 2: Find the Source
Identifying the source of the water is critical to preventing further damage.
Finding a Water Damage Source: Room-by-Room Inspection Checklist
| Kitchen & Bathroom Inspection | Basement Inspection | Plumbing Inspection |
|---|---|---|
| Leaks under sinks, Moisture around dishwashers or refrigerators, Damp cabinets, Slow plumbing leaks | Standing water, Damp walls or flooring, Efflorescence (white mineral deposits on walls), Sewage odors or floor drain backups | Appliance supply lines, Water heaters, Washing machine hoses, Visible plumbing connections |
If you can find the source, cut off the water supply to that area as quickly as possible (either by localized shut-off valves or the main water supply line). For roof or storm-related issues, safely contain the leak if you can until help arrives.
If the damage is extensive, involves contaminated water, or may be unsafe to handle, call an emergency water restoration company immediately.
Step 3: Remove Standing Water
Use towels, mops, or a wet vacuum to remove as much water as possible.
Step 4: Increase Airflow
Open windows and use fans or dehumidifiers to help dry the area.
Step 5: Remove Wet Items
Move furniture, rugs, and belongings away from the affected area.
Step 6: Monitor for Hidden Moisture
Continue monitoring walls, floors, and cabinets for signs of lingering moisture.
What NOT to Do if You Have Water Damage
These common mistakes can make water damage worse, increase costs, and create serious health risks.
Don't do the following:
- Ignore small leaks or damp areas: Water damage doesn't go away on its own, and small problems can quickly become costly (or even dangerous) if left unaddressed.
- Turn on electrical appliances near standing water: Never run electrical appliances, including fans or humidifiers, if there is still standing water.
- Assume it's dry just because it looks dry: Moisture can linger inside materials long after the surface feels dry.
- Attempt to dry large areas without proper equipment: Trying to dry large areas without professional equipment can allow moisture to spread further, increasing damage and restoration costs.
- Leave wet materials in place for extended periods: This increases the risk of mold growth, structural damage, and health hazards.
- Use household cleaners on sewage-contaminated water: Category 3 (sewage-contaminated) water requires professional water damage restoration 100% of the time. Attempting to do it on your own can cause serious health hazards.
When water damage involves contaminated water or large areas of the home, professional cleanup is necessary.
When Can Homeowners Handle Water Damage Themselves?
In limited situations, homeowners may be able to handle minor water issues.
DIY cleanup may be possible when:
- The affected area is very small
- Water exposure was brief
- Only non-porous surfaces were affected
- There is no visible mold growth
Even in these situations, homeowners should carefully monitor the area to ensure moisture has been fully removed.
When You Should Call a Professional Water Damage Restoration Company
Professional water mitigation and restoration is recommended when:
- Water has affected multiple rooms
- Carpets, drywall, or insulation are saturated
- Water has been present for more than several hours
- There is visible mold growth
- Water is contaminated (sewage or gray water)
- The source of the leak cannot be located
Professional restoration companies use specialized equipment such as commercial air movers, dehumidifiers, and moisture detection tools to fully dry affected materials.
Key Takeaways
- Water damage isn't always obvious. Pay close attention to any changes in your home, like discolored walls and ceilings, musty odors, unusual sounds, and warped flooring.
- Quick action can prevent further damage and reduce restoration costs.
- DIY cleanup can work if the affected area is small and addressed quickly.
- Call a professional if the damage is extensive or the water is contaminated.
Water damage can be overwhelming, but you don't have to handle it alone. We've helped countless homeowners and businesses recover from water emergencies quickly and safely. Whether you're dealing with a small leak or a major flood, we're here to help.
If you suspect water damage, call All Pro Restoration at 720-729-0002 for 24/7 emergency water damage response.
Frequently Asked Questions About Water Damage
Q: What are the first signs of water damage?
A: Common early signs include water stains, musty odors, bubbling paint, warped flooring, and mold growth.
Q: Can you fix water damaged walls yourself?
A: Minor moisture damage may be repairable with proper drying, but drywall that is soft, sagging, or moldy typically requires replacement.
Q: How quickly should water damage be addressed?
A: "Water damage should ideally be addressed within 24 hours to reduce the risk of mold growth and structural damage."
Q: Can water damage cause mold?
A: Yes. "Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours if moisture remains inside building materials, even in dry climates like Colorado."
Q: When should I call a water damage restoration company?
A: If water has affected drywall, flooring, insulation, or multiple rooms, professional restoration is usually recommended.
