How much water does the United States waste because of a leak? About a trillion gallons of water annually, according to the EPA.
A water leak can occur anywhere in your home – from a dripping faucet to a cracked foundation. While some leaks are easy to spot, others can be much more difficult to detect.
Fortunately, if you pay close attention, then you can see some signs.
1. Wet Spots on the Ground or on Your Walls
Have you ever found a wet spot on the ground or on your wall and wondered where it came from? In most cases, it is due to a water leak.
This happens when water seeps or leaks from a pipe, faucet, or other water-using appliance. You may see the wet spot getting bigger over time, especially if the leak is ongoing.
2. Pool of Water on the Ceiling or Attic Floor
Water stains on the ceiling are never a good sign. Whether they're small and dotted or large and blotchy, these indicate a water leak is somewhere in your home.
In some cases, the water may even drip from the ceiling. If this is the case, then it's likely that the leak is coming from your attic. Water can easily travel through your ceilings and walls if it isn't properly sealed and insulated.
Mold and mildew are fungi that grow in moist environments. While they are commonly found outdoors, they can also grow indoors on wet surfaces like walls, ceilings, and floors.
When water leaks occur, the resulting moisture provides an ideal environment for mold and mildew to take hold. In addition, water leaks can damage building materials like drywall and insulation, providing mold and mildew with additional places to grow.
When water seeps into the boards that make up your floor, it can cause them to swell and warp. This can happen if there's a leak in your roof or if water from heavy rains gets into your home.
Once the boards swell, they start to push against each other and the nails that hold them in place. This can cause gaps to form on your floor, making it uneven.
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