Water damage in your house can be a silent enemy. It is often noticed once it becomes a severe problem. The baseboards, for example, are especially vulnerable to water damage. These boards can be made from wood or composite materials and are located at the junction between the wall and the floor. Early signs of water damage may appear on these boards. You can save time, money, and additional structural issues by identifying the signs early and calling a company specializing in water restoration. This post will discuss the most common signs of water damage, explain why these issues occur, and offer advice if you spot any.
- Discolorations Or Stains
Water damage to baseboards can first be identified by discoloration. The discoloration can form dark spots, yellowing, and water stains. These marks are caused by water causing paint or finishes to change colors. The discoloration may indicate that the baseboards have been in contact with water for some time. This can cause further damage to the baseboards if it is not addressed.
Discoloration can come from several sources, including roof leaks, leaky plumbing, and even high humidity. If you notice discoloration or staining in your baseboards, it’s best to check the source and contact an expert water restoration service to evaluate the extent of damage.
- The Warping Or Swelling
Due to moisture, water-soaked baseboards can swell up or warp. If the baseboards appear distorted or swollen, it is easy to tell if water damage has occurred. Water-damaged baseboards will also pull away from walls, creating visible gaps.
Swollen baseboards may be a sign of ongoing moisture exposure. This could be a result of a nearby water supply, such as a broken pipe, damaged appliances, or poor drainage in the home’s basement. Water restoration companies can help you identify and eliminate the cause.
- Paint That Is Peeling, Bubbling, Or Splats
If baseboards are in contact with water, they may peel off, bubble up, or blister. This occurs when water weakens or breaks the adhesive bond that holds the paint on the surface. You may notice that the paint is bubbling up on the baseboards. Moisture can be behind them, affecting the wall’s structure.
Peeling paint or bubbles is more than an aesthetic problem. They’re a red flag that signals deeper moisture problems. Ignoring these signs could lead you to greater damage, like mold growth and structural weakness. A water restoration company will help you identify the source and recommend repairs.
- Soft Or Crumbling Wood
The baseboards will become soft and spongy if they have been damaged by water. The wood will be compromised if you feel the baseboards are softer or if they crumble. This happens because moisture rots the wood fibers and reduces strength.
The baseboards may be soft or crumbling, which indicates extensive water damage. The damage is likely to extend beyond the visible area. In these situations, it is best to contact a restoration company that can assess the full extent of the damage.
What To Do If You See Water Damage On Your Baseboards
If you find any evidence of water damage along your baseboards, it is important to act promptly to prevent the issue from getting worse. Here are some steps to take:
- Identifying the Source of Water: Determine where the moisture originates. It may be a leaking pipe, high humidity, or poor drainage. Addressing the source will prevent further damage.
- Contact a Water Restoration Company: Water Restoration Companies can help you assess the extent of the damage, dry up the affected area, and repair or substitute damaged baseboards.
- Restore or Replace Damaged Floorboards: The extent of the damage will determine if baseboard replacement is necessary. A professional will ensure that the work is done correctly. This will prevent any future issues.
Conclusion
The problem of water damage in baseboards, which is very common, can become more severe if not dealt with. If you can recognize early signs, like discoloration of the baseboards, warping and mold growth, or softer wood, then you can take steps to reduce damage. In many cases, calling a water restoration company will be the best choice to restore the damage and prevent further problems.
