Giving water spots a cold shoulder is never a good move. If you notice wet, squishy areas around your walls or ceiling, it’s a surefire sign that your property is experiencing water damage. Luckily, if this is your first time spotting such spots, it’s likely that the leak is fairly new. But how can you tell if water damage is old or new? Continue reading to find out.
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How Long Does Water Damage Take to Show?
It depends. Not all water damage cases are leaked equally. Sometimes, water damage can show in as little as one hour. Other times, water damage can show up over the course of a few days. Water damage can happen anywhere, at any time. However, the chance of water damage occurring is far more substantial after heavy rainfall.
5 Ways to Determine How Old the Water Damage Is in Your Property
In many cases, it’s easy to determine just how old the water damage in your property is. Below are five ways for how you can tell if water damage is new or old.
Consider Your Property’s History
If you have an older property, chances are your pipes and HVAC units are too. Older pipes and air conditioners can cause condensation buildup within your attic or walls. That being said, if you keep in mind your property’s history, determining the age of new water damage shouldn’t be hard to diagnose.
Look For Mold or Decay
Mold or decay means the water damage is likely a few days old. Mold grows in warm, wet environments such as water that has been standing for a length of time. If you find mold or decay, it’s imperative that you contact your local restoration company for mold remediation services.
Touch the Affected Area
If there’s no mold present, you should touch the affected area to assess the damage. Ensure that you are wearing gloves, eye protection, and a mask before touching the area. If the water spot is firm, it’s likely new. If the water spot is soft, it is likely old.
Check the Structures
Knowing your home’s structures is important. If you have a leak within your walls, thick paint can trap and retain moisture over time. You can easily determine how long water damage has been sitting in your walls by touch and sight. Learn more on how to protect your home foundation from water damage.
Look for Water Rings
The appearance of water rings can vary depending on how new or old the water damage is. Dark spots on your walls or ceiling indicate fresh water damage. Older water stains on ceilings develop into rings that change color over time.
Read More: How To Repair Water Damage on Drywall & Ceilings
What Does Early Water Damage Look Like?
Early water damage can look like dark spots on your ceiling or firm water spots on your walls. The affected area or areas are also free from mold or decay. Regardless, you should call the team at Cleanup & Total Restoration the moment you notice signs of water damage.
How Quickly Does Mold Grow After Water Damage?
You won’t see mold within the first few hours of water damage—but you’ll definitely notice it after 48 hours. It takes roughly two days for mold to grow. If you can’t see any visible signs of mold and mildew, but you can smell musty, rotten odors, then it’s time to call the team at CTR.
Professional Water Damage Restoration Near You
Just noticed a few water spots in your home or business and don’t know what to do? Contact the restoration company Idaho residents trust. Cleanup & Total Restoration offers 24/7 emergency services to handle everything from roof leakages to flood damage. Get the help you need fast and contact us today.
