Have you ever noticed strange stains or cracks on your walls and wondered what might be causing them? These could be early signs of water damage in walls – a problem that hides beneath the surface.
It often starts with small clues, like peeling paint or a mystery smell. But if it is ignored, it can lead to bigger problems, such as mold growth or even structural damage. In the U.S. alone, 14,000 people are affected by water damage, showing the widespread impact of this problem.
Spotting these signs early can save you from costly repairs and headaches down the road. Now, to save you trouble, we’ll explain all the early signs you should keep an eye on and how to prevent them from happening altogether.
What Does Water Damage Look Like on a Wall?
Water damage on walls can appear in several ways, often starting with small changes that are easy to miss. It often starts with dark or discolored spots, streaks or even patches that feel damp to the touch.
In some cases, the paint or wallpaper may begin to bubble, peel or crack. The wall could also feel soft, swollen and even in areas where the water has soaked in. If mold starts to grow, you may notice black, green or white spots forming along with a musty smell.
Most of these things happen in the overlooked areas during home cleaning. Now, to clearly understand what does water damage look like on a wall in your home, you need to know the warning signs.
5 Signs of Water Damage in Walls You Should Look Out For
If you don’t catch it early, water damage can cause serious problems. Here are five signs water might be in your walls. Knowing them helps prevent bigger problems later.
1. Discolored or Dark Spots
If you see yellow, brown, or dark stains on your walls, it might mean water is soaking in. These marks can be small but often grow over time if there’s a leak. Discolored spots can show up in ceilings, too, especially if there’s a leak above.
2. Peeling or Bubbling Paint
When water gets trapped in a wall, it can make paint bubble or peel. Check for spots where the paint is cracking. This happens because moisture weakens the paint’s hold on the wall. Over time, the bubbling can spread and become more prominent.
3. Wavy Appearance of Walls
Walls that have a wavy appearance might have soaked with water. Water causes wood and drywall to swell, which leads to bending. Gently press on the wall—if it feels soft, water may have weakened it.
4. Soft or Spongy Walls
A wall that feels soft or spongy when you touch it likely has absorbed water. Press gently on areas that look discolored or have paint peeling. If the wall feels weaker in these areas, it’s one of the clear signs of water damage in walls.
5. Mold Growth
Mold often appears as black, green, or dark patches and grows in moist, hidden areas. If you see it on a wall, it means water has been present for some time. Mold can be dangerous, especially for people with allergies, so act quickly if you detect it.
What to Do About Water Damage in Walls?
If you notice water damage in your walls, quick action is essential to prevent further harm. The longer water sits, the more it can spread, leading to mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs. You can also use our home deep cleaning checklist to never miss a spot while cleaning your home.
Anyhow, here’s what to do about water damage in walls if you don’t want it to become a bigger issue:
- Identify and Stop the Source of Water: If the damage is from a leaking pipe, shut off the water supply immediately. If an appliance is the cause, stop using it until a professional can repair it.
- Remove Damaged Items: Any water-damaged furniture, rugs or belongings should be removed from the area. This not only limits the spread of moisture but also makes it easier to assess the extent of the wall damage.
- Dry Out the Area: Use fans, dehumidifiers, or ventilation to dry out the affected wall/ Even if the damage seems minor, ensure the area is completely dry to prevent mold from developing.
- Repair the Wall: Once the source of water is fixed and the area is dry, you can move onto repairing the wall. This might involve patching drywall, repainting or replacing damaged sections.
- Inspect for Mold: Water damage in walls can quickly lead to mold growth if left untreated. Check the area carefully for any signs of mold, including musty odor or dark spots.
How Much Does Wall Water Damage Repair Cost?
Wall water damage repair cost is around $1,300 to $6,000 on average depending on how bad the damage is. It can even go up to $100,000 if the damage is too extensive. Several factors influence the total cost, including whether the water damage resulted from a plumbing issue, roof leak or flooding.
However, you don’t need to worry much about the cost because insurance coverage can help offset some costs if an accidental leak or burst pipe caused the damage. You can use a commercial cleaning calculator to figure out the exact cost.
Just be quick in identifying signs of water damage in walls and repair water damage as quickly as possible to avoid expensive repairs.
Experience the Difference with Mill City Cleaning
Recognizing the signs of water damage in walls, such as stains, bubbling paint and musty odors, can help you act before the damage worsens. At Mill City Cleaning, we understand the importance of maintaining clean and safe spaces, especially in multifamily housing.
Our Apartment cleaning service is designed to meet the specific commercial cleaning needs of property managers to ensure every area of your property is pristine and welcoming. With our Minneapolis cleaning service, we offer solutions such as turnover cleaning, deep sanitation and ongoing maintenance to keep your property in top shape.
Contact Mill City Cleaning today to get a quote for reliable commercial cleaning services that help protect your property and provide a fresh, inviting environment for your tenants.
FAQs
How long does it take for water damage to show on walls?
Water damage on walls can become visible within 24 to 48 hours. In some cases, the signs appear quickly, such as stains or wet spots, especially if the water source is significant. However, smaller leaks take several days or even weeks before showing any visible signs.
How do I know if my walls have water damage?
To know if your walls have water damage, keep an eye on the following signs:
- Dark stains or wet patches.
- Bubbling, peeling, or cracking paint or wallpaper.
- Soft, damp, or uneven spots on the wall.
- Musty odor or visible mold growth.
- Swollen or warped wooden trim near the base of the walls.
- Dripping sounds or unexplained moisture.
- Sudden spike in your water bill.
