Do you see that spot on the wall over there? That large brown one? Perhaps you never noticed it before. Or maybe you knew it was there, but now it looks like it’s growing or changing. Chances are that discoloration has come from water damage. But how are you supposed to know if it’s new or if it’s from old damages you just never got repaired?
Take a look at these simple tips to navigate the differences.
Is There Dampness?
The first thing you can do is simply touch the spot. This may sound simple, but you would be surprised at how many people don’t think to do so. When you touch the spot, if you feel any type of moisture or dampness, then you have a new water problem of some sort. While that spot may be old, there is something causing it to grow and be damaged further. If it is actually wet or moist, you have new damage and new problems.
That being said, don’t mistake moisture for materials that are just squishy or mushy because of previous damage. Look for real moisture.
Are There Rings in the Water Damage?
Next, you can look for rings in the damage to determine whether it’s new or old. While you might not be able to dictate the exact age, you can tell whether it’s something that has been there for a while. For example, what you’re looking for is the initial spot of damage, and then whether there are any lighter rings around it.
When there are no rings, generally that spot is a new spot. However, if there are rings around it or other marks, then chances are it is an old-damage spot. The only question is whether the issue was ever fixed, and it’s just continuing to grow. However, a new spot will still be small with no rings.
Look for Rot or Decay
Another great way to differentiate between old and new damage spots is whether there is any rot or decay of the materials. Sometimes, you won’t be able to see this on the surface. Over time, water will cause materials to chip away, decay, or rot. This includes paint, drywall, and especially wood. However, it sometimes takes longer for these signs to become obvious on the surface.
If you see signs of rot or decay on the surface, it’s definitely an aged spot.
What About Mold?
Finally, look for areas that indicate mold. Where there is older water damage, there is almost always mold nearby as well. Mold can sometimes be more challenging to identify, but it will likely look similar to black or brown spots. You might even see some fuzziness with some mold. Mold is typically a different color from the water spots, and it will grow in spotty patches.
Bring in a Water Damage Professional
If you’re noticing signs of damage, whether it’s new or old, you should get it inspected and taken care of. Semper Fi Floor Care & Restoration can help inspect the area of concern and devise a plan for restoration and cleanup. If the spot is new, get it taken care of right away to prevent mold. If the spot is old, you still don’t want to ignore it, as it will only get worse.
