How to Tell the Age of a Water Spot - Water Damage Restoration

Water damage repair is a common problem for any property, and sometimes the problem is clear and other times it isn't. Things like overflowing bathtubs, toilets and sinks are common issues linked with water damage and you know there is an issue when this happens. But pipes run all over your property, and this includes places you can't see such as between the floors and inside the walls. It's safe to say that a pipe leaking in a hidden space can happen. It's a frustrating obstacle since you can't see the leak and you won't be aware before the water damage appears.

Because the pipes are hidden, you can get an approximation of how long you've had water issues by evaluating the water damage itself. Unfortunately, it's hard to find out a precise timeline, but we have some guidance on how to examine the damage so you can come up with an estimated time on how long you've had water in the damaged space.

Find Out How Old Your Water Damage is with These Tips

The following steps can help you understand whether your water damage is new or old:

• History of the House: When your property has any spots caused from water damage, it's fundamental to take note of them when figuring out whether damage generated from water is new or old. Furthermore, you'll want to be observant of any weather that could bring hidden water damage to the surface like heavy rain. Know your property, since pipes with a slow drip can take months to surface, and if you know what's new and what's old, you'll be able to diagnose your problem faster.
• History of the House: When your property has any spots caused from water damage, it's fundamental to take note of them when figuring out whether damage generated from water is new or old. Furthermore, you'll want to be observant of any weather that could bring hidden water damage to the surface like heavy rain. Know your property, since pipes with a slow drip can take months to surface, and if you know what's new and what's old, you'll be able to diagnose your problem faster.
• Touch the Spot: When the water spot is old, it will be squishy and spongy since during the period of the leaking water, your drywall or ceiling has absorbed a good amount of water. A newer spot will feel wet but it won't be soft like an older spot.
• Look for Rings: When you see just a dark spot with zero rings around it, this shows that the water damage is new. Old water damage will have rings around it, and like trees, the more rings determines the age. Different shades and colors of rings exhibits that the spot has been soaked, dried, soaked, dried, etc.
• Examine the Materials: Materials such as thick paint and tiles can actually trap water, so when you have a spot produced by water seeping through one of these, this can mean there's been a buildup of water for awhile. Being aware of the materials can help you address your water damage issues more efficiently.
• Mold Inspection: If mold has had time to settle, this implies your water damage has been there for approximately two to three days.
• Decay: Decaying material indicates that your water damage is either a repeat offender or that it's extensive because there's standing water. A first instance of water damage typically doesn't lead to decomposition.

Get in Touch with Paul Davis - Your Experienced Water Damage Restoration Specialists

If you're having water damage issues, look to Paul Davis. It's important to remedy any dripping pipes on your property before the damage becomes extensive. Our water damage restoration experts can detect a leak and repair your property back to normal no matter the size of the job. Reach out to Paul now at +1-403-696-8886 and a local franchise will be there to assist you.