Water Damage in Older Homes, Southlake TX

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

Older Homes with Water Damage

I LOVE older homes, especially homes built in the 50s and 60s – I’m a post-modern fan. But, with older homes there is always the risk of finding a multitude of problems, from electrical, to structure, coding, and water. Water is probably one of the worst problems that can plague a home. It can rot out wood and cause dangerous mold. So, how do you tell if an older home has water damage? Here are some common signs:

What’s that smell? Sometimes water damage isn’t always in plain sight, so sometimes you have to make like a dog and follow your nose. Occasionally, some older homes might just have a musty smell due to their age, but if you walk into a specific room and your nose is assaulted by the smell of mold or mildew - more so than normal - then moisture damage is probably lurking behind the walls.

That’s an awfully ugly stain. You can pretty much spot a water stain from a mile away, almost everyone knows what they look like. If you’re purchasing an old home and see water stains or fresh paint in places it shouldn’t be – beware! Ask if the damage was repaired, and require proof to go along with it. If the stain pops up suddenly, get a professional out as fast as you can to see where the water is coming from.

That shouldn’t be crumbling like that. Crumbling wood around your windows and baseboards could mean water has gotten into the wood, making it crumble.

The Buckling. Buckling happens when the floorboards lift off from the sub floor. It is a sign that water has seeped into the dry wall or flooring and has made it swell. You’ll be able to see it and feel it when you walk over the spot; the floor will be warped and will feel as though you are walking over a bump. Get with a professional to determine where the water leak is coming from, and begin repairs before more damage is done.

If you’ve got an older home and have water damage – call SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County today at 817.595.2506.