How to Tell if Water Damage is New or Old

Did you know that a leak caused by water damage in a household can cause 10,000 gallons of water to be wasted? Water damage can become more costly to fix over time if the damage is older. Finding any kind of water damage early on is the key to preventing further damage and expensive costs in necessary restorations.

You may be wondering how to tell if water damage is new or old. There are ways to distinguish between the two. Read on to learn about the water damage signs, how to tell if the damage is old or new, and what can be done to resolve this issue.

• Differences Between Water Damage Signs
• How to Tell if Water Damage is New or Old
  • Be Observant After Storms
  • Feel Any Water Spots
  • Look for Water Rings
  • Search for Mold or Decay
• Why Choose PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists for Water Restoration?
  • What to Expect
• Seek Water Restoration Services Today

Differences Between Water Damage Signs

Some of the signs of water damage include mold, water stains, rotting wood, cracks in foundations, sounds of leaking, discoloration, and texture changes of walls and ceilings. Typically, when it comes to newer water damage, these signs may not be as apparent. This is because the buildup of water has not yet begun to cause damage.

One major indicator you are dealing with old water damage is if these signs have begun to be noticeable. The longer water damage goes unresolved, the signs will not only be more apparent but will cause more issues for you in the long run. Keeping an eye out for water damage as often as you can helps you avoid missing early signs.

How to Tell if Water Damage is New or Old

Do you know how to tell if water damage is new or old? While the signs of water damage may be obvious in most instances, figuring out whether or not it is new or old can be difficult if you do not have experience with this situation. There are multiple ways to decipher whether or not the water damage in your home is new or old.

Be Observant After Storms

When a storm occurs, the possibility of water damage is likely. One way to stop water damage from becoming older with time is by being observant of possible signs after any storms or instances that can cause damage. 

If there is a storm or flooding, keep an eye on your home and look for the common signs of water damage. This will not only stop the damage in its tracks early but possibly save you time and money for any needed repairing.

Feel Any Water Spots

One way to distinguish old from new water damage is by detecting and investigating any water spots. Feel the texture of the water spots, do they feel damp or squishy? New water damage will feel damp, while old damage will feel mushy and have a different texture. The old damage has this texture because the water is already absorbed, causing this to occur.

Look for Water Rings

The appearance of water rings is a simple way to tell whether or not the damage is new or old. If you notice the area is wet but there are no signs of rings, this means the damage is fairly new. As time goes on, rings will begin to make an appearance. The more rings that you identify, the older the damage is.

Search for Mold or Decay

Mold is not only a common sign of water damage but a distinguishable factor in whether or not the damage in your home is new or not. If you notice any mold growth anywhere in your home, this indicates that the water damage has been there for quite some time.

While all the signs of water damage can be dangerous and inconvenient, mold is especially dangerous. Mold can have negative impacts on you and your family’s health.

Impacts of mold on health are:

• Allergic reactions
• Fever related symptoms
• Increase in asthma attacks

Those with asthma tend to be more sensitive if they come in contact with mold, whether through inhalation or touch. Because of how mold can negatively impact your health, it is important to contact a professional to come to remove any mold. If you see any signs of decaying, this is a sign of older water damage, as it has been able to cause this damage over time.

Why Choose PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists for Water Restoration? 

Now that you know how to tell if water damage is new or old, you may be wondering who you should contact to help you with this situation.

PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists is the right choice for resolving your water damage issues, especially newer damage. This is because our certified technicians have an abundance of experience, making it easy for them to identify and resolve even the newest of water damage. Our equipment used for restoration services is high quality and effective in resolving water damage.

What to Expect

When you contact a professional from PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists for water damage restoration, here is what you can expect to happen. First, a technician will come out to your home and complete an assessment. This will help us be able to see what is going on and what needs to be done. Next, any excess water will be extracted to prevent any further damage from occurring.

Once all of the excess water is extracted, the process of drying and dehumidifying will be done. This will help our technicians prepare for the repairs that need to be done. Finally, the cleaning and repairs will begin.

Seek Water Restoration Services Today

Having water damage, especially newer damage repaired will prevent any more damage from occurring. PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists is a professional and family-owned business that specializes in cleanup and restoration services. Our technicians are experienced and dedicated to helping all clients. Services have been offered since 2014.

Contact PuroClean Certified Restoration Specialists today if you need water restorations and cleanups, or if you have any questions regarding any of the services offered.