Austin Fire and Flood

How to Identify a Water Leak Inside a Wall

The abrupt appearance of water dripping down a wall or a large water stain is a nightmare for any homeowner. While most people can identify a water leak, it is best to contact a professional to determine the root cause of the leak and create a plan for water damage restoration. The longer the leak goes unnoticed or untreated, the more damage it can cause, thus increasing costs to homeowners.

What Causes a Leak?

Many factors cause leaks to appear in the first place, and identifying the leak's origin is the best way to find the solution. Faulty or damaged pipes are common culprits for causing leaks inside walls. Whether the home is decades old or brand new, damaged pipes can cause severe leaks that require water removal and restoration to the house.

Furthermore, a leaky roof can let water in during rainy weather and cause a water leak inside a wall. Excessive debris in the home's gutters can cause water to back up and seep into the house's walls. Regular gutter cleaning and roof maintenance will help negate water damage caused by a faulty roof.

Common Indicators of a Wall Leak

Not all symptoms of a water leak will be as apparent as a pool of water or water running down the wall. Some may even be invisible to the untrained eye and can go unnoticed for weeks, causing the cost of water damage restoration to multiply exponentially. If you identify one or more of the following signs, call a professional immediately to reduce further damage.

The following signs mean it is time to call an expert technician:

Discoloration on walls
Standing water
Wall texture inconsistency
Mold
Musty smell
Dripping sounds
Rising water bill

How to Identify a Wall Leak

While a leak might seem like an obvious problem to identify, some signs are more discrete and require further investigation by a professional. Water damage restoration specialists perform several tests to determine if a wall leak is present.

A moisture detection unit measures the moisture level present when pressed against the wall. A professional will measure multiple spots on the wall to help determine where the leak is originating. Water removal technicians can also utilize infrared thermography by placing a tiny camera through a hole in the wall to locate the leak's origin.

Residents in Wooten, Austin, TX, and the surrounding area can call Austin Fire and Flood for a free home inspection if they discover a wall leak.

When to Call the Professionals

Visible signs of a wall leak might be the least of your problems. What lies behind the wall is often more severe than what presents itself on the outside. While some symptoms are apparent, it is best to call a professional water damage restoration expert to take a closer look and locate all sources of water leaks. The professionals at Austin Fire and Flood specialize in water damage restoration and will handle your home and belongings with care.