The first signs of basement damage can often be subtle. When left undetected, they could turn serious and irreversible, requiring professional repairs. Checking your basement regularly could help you save thousands of dollars and protect your structure. ServiceMaster of Cobb has compiled the top signs of basement water damage below.
Cracks in the wall, floor or foundation
Cracks indicate water pressure around your home's structure.
While hairline cracks are often harmless, they must be assessed by a professional if they grow larger than one-sixteenth of an inch across.
Call in the experts if you notice your walls shifting or becoming displaced.
Peeling paint
Peeling paint could indicate that water is starting to deteriorate your foundation. Watch out for spalling (cement under the paint flaking) and efflorescence (accumulated white salt deposits).
Spalling and efflorescence are caused by the presence of water. Call the experts right away to prevent structural failure.
Sinking floors
Sinking floors aren't always immediately apparent. A sinking floor is a sign of foundation damage or soil erosion under your home's foundation.
Sinking floors should immediately be assessed before they worsen and lead to costly repairs.
Musty smells
Musty odors that cannot be removed by cleaning, dehumidification and additional ventilation could indicate a serious problem.
Mold may be the cause of these musty odors, which develop near a water source, such as a leak. Check your basement often to find these leaks and address them as soon as possible.
Mold growth
Mold is a fungus that develops in wet, damp areas. Mold growing in your basement is a major sign of water damage.
Look for signs of dripping water or excess humidity and call a restoration professional immediately to stop the leak and remove the mold.
The Atlantic hurricane season is a time of high moisture, so inspect your basement frequently to ensure that your foundation and structure are safe.
What to Do When Your Basement Floods
Your basement is likely to flood during a storm or hurricane. Here's what you should do when your basement fills with water:
Turn off the power
Turn off all energy sources around the area including electricity and gas. If there is standing water and this action could not be performed without going through it, keep yourself safe by leaving the job to a professional.
Wear boots and gloves
Floodwaters can contain pathogens, sewage and other contaminants. If there is a need to wade in floodwaters, use proper protective equipment such as boots and gloves.
Call your insurance company
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. If you live in an area with a high risk of flooding, consider securing a separate policy for flooding events. It's easier to recover from flood damage with the proper coverage.
Make an Appointment for Basement Water Damage Repair in Georgia
Water damage emergencies cannot wait. ServiceMaster of Cobb is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at our Emergency Hotline. We service Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta, Marietta, Smyrna, Rome, Dalton, Douglasville, Kennesaw, Woodstock, Canton, Acworth, Cartersville, Calhoun and Dallas, Georgia and surrounding areas.
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