How to Tell if Water Damage is New or Old

6/20/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Mandarin advises on how to tell if water damage is new or old.

Dealing with water damage can be a frustrating and potentially hazardous experience for most homeowners. Due to the numerous pipes that run through the walls and ceilings of your home, condensation or leaks can occur frequently, resulting in water stains on walls and ceilings. When you notice such stains, it is crucial to determine whether the damage is new or old as this will help you decide on the best course of action. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in making an informed decision.

Touch the Spot

Feel the spot with your hand. A newer spot will be damp while an older spot might feel mushy since the water has started to break down the materials in your sheetrock or plaster.

Look for Rings

If you see a darker spot with no rings around it, this may indicate that the damage is new. Older damage may have rings around it, like a tree.  The more rings you see, the older the water damage. Different shades and colors of rings will tell you that the area has been soaked and dried more than once.

Consider the Home’s History

If your home has any water spots, you should take note of them when determining whether the damage is old or new. Pay close attention to any problem areas you may have and whether spots appear following a rain storm. Condensation on pipes in your wall or ceiling can take a long time to manifest themselves as a stain. If you know your property well, you’ll recognize what’s old and what’s new.

Mold

Check for mold in rooms with high humidity levels. When mold bacteria has had time to colonize, this means that the damage generated by water has been there for at least 2 or 3 days.

Look for Decay

The materials in your walls and ceilings don’t usually decay from the first occurrence of water damage, and this could be a sign that that spot may have been caused by the consistent presence of water.

In the event of water damage in your home, rely on SERVPRO of Mandarin to identify the source of the problem and restore your property to its pre-damaged condition. As a locally owned business, our team of skilled professionals is accessible 24/7 to respond promptly to any magnitude of disaster. We use state-of-the-art inspection and extraction tools to detect moisture and eliminate it promptly. Moreover, we collaborate with your insurance provider to simplify the claims process and reduce your paperwork.

For additional information about our company, visit our website or call us at 904-636-0044.