Many homeowners may not even be aware of the moisture lurking in their homes. If moisture goes undetected for a long period of time it can cause problems that can be harmful to your health as well as expensive to repair. It is important that you inspect your home frequently for any indication that moisture may be present, so that you can address the problem immediately.
Following are some signs that may indicate the presence of moisture.
Musty Odors
One of the most easily detectable signs of a moisture problem is the presence of musty odors. This is often a strong indicator that there is water damage somewhere nearby—possibly hidden in insulation behind walls, under floors or in a crawl space. This odor is often caused by bacteria and mold growth that feeds on the excess moisture in a dark, cool space. If left alone long enough, the spores from mold can become a respiratory hazard, and the affected area may start showing visible signs of rot.
Floors that Blister, Bubble or Curl Up
Blistering of floor coverings and coating can happen when enough moisture rises to the surface of the concrete or material below the floor covering and gets trapped in between. This can ultimately cause the flooring to pop up, bubble or curl. Over time, water can also breakdown any adhesive that may have been used, which also leads to the floor finish popping up or blistering.
Dark Patches on Walls or Ceilings
Another obvious sign of water damage or the presence of moisture is the appearance of dark patches on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. As water seeps into building materials, it can cause the materials to visibly darken. In addition, mold and mildew growth can appear as dark or black spots on many surfaces.
Bubbling or Cracking Wallpaper or Paint
Paint or wallpaper that has bubbled or cracked can indicate water damage. If you notice that your walls are warped, bulging, or bowed, it often means that moisture has penetrated the surface.
If moisture is present in the home, it can lead to the growth of mold and mildew which can be dangerous to your health as well as cause significant problems that can take a considerable amount of time and money to correct. The only way to be sure of the presence of water is to have the home properly tested for the existence of any moisture. If you suspect that there is moisture anywhere in your home, contact Advanced Moisture Testing.
Advanced Moisture Testing provides high quality and extremely accurate moisture testing to customers throughout Long Island. Advanced Moisture Testing provides high quality moisture testing services for homeowners, contractors, builders and consumers throughout New York and the tristate area. They are certified by the International Concrete Repair Institute and can perform the proper moisture testing for any surface. If you are concerned about the moisture levels in your current home or your place of business, call for a consultation today at 631-567-9269 or 631-567-9314.