We typically think of water damage as coming from a major event – a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, a malfunctioning appliance, or a flood caused by severe storm damage. But often, water damage can come from less obvious sources, like a slow leak.
Sometimes these leaks go undetected for long periods of time because they’re out of sight. Other times, they may be readily visible – such as when you have a slow leak coming from your kitchen faucet – but they got ignored because the leak didn’t seem serious. The reality is even a small leak can result in catastrophic water damage if it isn’t addressed in a timely manner.
Identifying and fixing leaks in your home is one of the easiest preventive measures you can take to avoid serious water damage. The following overview will ensure you’re armed with the information you need to stay on top of these problems as they arise.
Common Sources of Slow Leaks
Slow leaks can come from a variety of sources. Some of these aren’t obvious, which is why slow leaks often go undetected for long periods of time. Knowing where to look for potential leaks will help you identify and address these issues before serious damage develops.
Roof Leaks
Roof leaks are one of the most common sources of slow leaks that go undetected. Storms that bring heavy rain, strong winds or hail can damage roofing materials. It’s common for major storms to result in damaged or missing shingles, accelerated wear to roofing materials, or a breakdown of seals around chimneys and vents that allow water to seep into your attic.
Clogged gutters and downspouts can also be a source of roof leaks if they aren’t able to properly divert water off the roof and away from your home.
Plumbing Leaks
Plumbing leaks are one of the most common causes of water damage in homes. While some of these leaks are easy to see if they develop around a sink or shower, other plumbing leaks may be hidden behind walls or underneath floors, allowing them to fester for long periods of time before they’re noticed.
Common causes of plumbing leaks include:
- Leaky faucets
- Pipe leaks due to age, corrosion or improper installation
- Loose appliance connections
Window and Door Leaks
When doors and windows aren’t sealed properly, water can enter your home during severe storms. Window leaks may occur when caulking around the window has deteriorated or the flashing becomes damaged. Door leaks can develop if seals or weather stripping wear out. Exterior doors with sliding mechanisms or glass panes are particularly susceptible to developing leaks.
Foundation Leaks
Cracks in your home’s foundation can allow water to enter your basement or crawl space whenever you experience heavy rain. This is a common source of slow leaks that are difficult to detect, and they can potentially result in serious damage to your home when they fester over months or years.
Long-Term Impact of Slow Leaks that Aren’t Addressed
Whether the leak is hidden and goes undetected for extended periods of time or a minor plumbing leak is neglected because it is considered “harmless,” the consequences can be devastating. Even small leaks can turn into significant water damage when they aren’t addressed, and this can result in the need for extensive repairs that are often very costly.
Structural Damage
Slow leaks can result in significant structural damage to your home that impacts both the appearance and structural integrity of the building. You may develop unsightly stains, discoloration and streaks on walls and ceilings which can be difficult to remove. In many instances, these aesthetic issues may require drywall replacement. However, the bigger issue involves potential damage to the structural integrity of your home, which may include:
- Warped drywall
- Weakened or rotting support beams
- Cracks in the foundation
- Warped and swollen hardwood floors
- Sagging ceilings
Mold Growth
Mold thrives in damp environments, making it one of the most common issues associated with slow leaks in your home. Unfortunately, mold grows quickly and can easily spread throughout your home, turning a small issue into a large problem.
Prolonged exposure to mold can result in a variety of health issues for anyone with severe allergies or a history of respiratory conditions. It can also cause structural damage to your property. Over time, mold can weaken many common building materials such as wood, insulation and drywall. In severe cases, mold may result in the need to remove and replace damaged materials to restore safe conditions.
Electrical Hazards
Slow leaks in walls or ceilings where electrical wiring is present can create electrical hazards. Short circuits can damage appliances and create fire hazards. If standing water develops near outlets or appliances, there may be a risk of electric shock or a potential for fires to develop.
Common Warning Signs that Indicate You May Have a Slow Leak
While many slow leaks aren’t readily visible, there are certain warning signs that may alert you to the problem. These include:
- Increasing Water Bills – If you notice your monthly water bills rising for no apparent reason, it may be a sign that you have a slow leak somewhere in your home.
- Decrease in Water Pressure – Sometimes a slow leak will cause faucets, showerheads and hoses to lose water pressure.
- Standing Water – If you find water pooling in your home or basement, it’s a sign that there’s a leak somewhere.
How to Detect Hidden Water Leaks
Early detection of water leaks is critical to prevent significant water damage. The following preventive measures can help you identify hidden leaks before a serious problem develops.
Routine Inspections
It’s a good idea to regularly inspect your home for signs of leaks. Make sure to inspect areas that are most prone to water damage, such as around plumbing fixtures, underneath sinks, in basements and around windows. During these inspections:
- Check for water stains on walls or ceilings
- Check for signs of pooling water or moisture buildup around appliances (dishwashers, washing machines and refrigerators are most prone to leaks)
Preventive Maintenance
Staying on top of regular home maintenance tasks is one of the most effective ways to identify leaks in their earliest stages:
- Roof Maintenance – Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles, and clean your gutters regularly to ensure proper water drainage after storms.
- Plumbing Maintenance – Schedule regular inspections of your plumbing system (ideally once a year) to identify potential issues before a leak develops.
- Door and Window Maintenance – Repair any problems with the sealing around doors and windows as soon as they arise to prevent water from entering your home during a severe storm.
Leak Detection Systems
One final preventive step you should take is to install leak detection systems in your home. These systems will help you identify small leaks before serious water damage develops. Smart water leak detectors monitor water flow and identify any changes that may indicate a leak is present. Moisture sensors can be placed under sinks, near appliances or in basements to alert you to the presence of water before it becomes a serious problem.
your local FLEET company Can Address Water Damage from a Slow Leak
If your home has sustained water damage from a slow leak, your local FLEET company can help. We’ve been the leading water damage restoration company in your area since 1954. Our team offers 24/7 emergency water damage restoration services and will arrive at your home, day or night, shortly after receiving your call to begin work. We’ve developed a meticulous water damage restoration process that adheres to all industry best practices and leverages the most advanced technology to ensure all work is done correctly.
Our team can handle the entire process, from initial assessment through all repairs. We also coordinate with your insurance to facilitate a smoother claims process that helps you maximize the benefits to which you’re entitled. When you work with your local FLEET company, you’ll have peace of mind that the entire process is handled properly, and your home is restored to its pre-damaged condition.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment. your local FLEET company serves customers in your area.