Some homeowners expect to see massive amounts of water if they have a water leak. They are surprised to learn that a trickle or drip of water can be categorized as a leak. The surprises go further when they discover that some leaks are referred to as hidden leaks because they occur in obscure places such as behind walls, ceilings, or in their foundations.
Hidden leaks are a serious threat because it can take a while for them to be discovered. When they are discovered, it is very likely that they will have caused some type of water damage. This means that homeowners will have to worry about water damage restoration and possibly mold remediation costs in addition to plumbing repairs. The following points highlight a few signs that a home has a hidden leak.
Continuously Running Water Meter
The average individual likely does not take the time to look at their water meter without a reason. However, this is one of the best ways to check for a hidden leak. Homeowners would ensure that everything in the home that requires water such as washing machines are off. They should also ensure that no one uses water to wash their hands or flush the toilet while they are checking the meter. If the meter runs nonstop during the test, it is indicative that a leak is present.
Musty Odors
This is indicative that mold is present on the premises. Mold is a toxic substance that can spread quickly. It commonly dwells in moisture-rich areas, which means that if a hidden leak is behind walls or ceilings mold is likely to be present. The stench is a good indicator that the substance is present. Plumbing contractors can determine if it is related to a hidden leak.
Stained Ceiling and Walls
Another telltale sign that a hidden water leak exists is the presence of peculiar brown stains on walls and ceilings. These are signs that water has saturated building materials and dried. The most likely source is a hidden leak. Sometimes these stains have dark black specks, which are signs that mold is also present.
A plumber is a good resource to use to learn more about the dangers of hidden leaks. They have a variety of innovative tools and techniques that they can use for leak detection. Homeowners should not delay seeking detection services from residential plumbers due to fears of being wrong about having a leak. It is better to err on the side of caution than to end up with a variety of expensive home repairs due to a hidden leak.