Water leaks are a very common issue in households. In most cases, they occur in kitchens or bathrooms where there are many water pipes. While many homeowners don’t see them as a sign of alarm, they should be dealt with immediately to avoid other potential hazards around the house.
In general, water leaks can be caused by numerous problems, some of which are minor, and you can repair them on your own. However, there are other more serious issues that require the assistance of professional plumbers using specific water leak detection tools to fix the outflow. If you fail to take care of the water leaks on time, they can lead to greater damage to your property and even your health.
Take a look at the vast array of risks unchecked water leakage can do and what you can do to fix them on time.
Mold And Mildew Issues
Mold and mildew are the two of the most common dangers that can result from water leaks. They usually develop in damp places, wet areas, and areas that build up moisture easily. If you leave the fungi unattended, the infestation will likely spread throughout your whole house.
Fortunately, there are a few methods you can rely on to combat mold and mildew. Some of the most commonly used ones include setting your home’s thermostat below 41 degrees and above 104 degrees and keeping the house as dry and ventilated as possible.
Structural Damage
Another hidden danger of water leaks is structural damage to your property. Most materials used to construct a typical house don’t work well when they are exposed to moisture. And because water leakage usually occurs behind walls, there is a great possibility that your home’s entire structure could be deteriorating.
The areas that are the most affected by water leaks include ceiling joints, wall framing, and other vital building components. If these get damaged, your house can literally start falling apart and even physically hurt you or your family.
Financial Damage
Financial damages are another common issue that comes from unattended water leaks. No matter what kind of leakage you try to fix, each repair comes with its own cost. And the longer the damage goes on, the more expensive it will be to repair it. That’s why it is important to check for any leaks as soon as possible to save up on expenses.
Also, water outflows can lead to higher utility bills and energy consumption as you may have electrical devices that use water to operate.
Health Effects
Despite the possibility of physical and financial dangers, water leaks can also harm your health or your family’s well-being. The harmful fungi that develop after leakages can cause severe respiratory problems, which can lead to even more serious health issues if left untreated.
For example, mold spores can cause allergic reactions, skin irritations such as rashes, nose and throat inflammation, itchy and red eyes, and even fever. That’s why you must act quickly whenever you notice the first signs of mold are detected.
Decreased Property Value
A hidden danger many homeowners overlook when there is a water leak in their house is that the outflow can decrease the value of their property. This can be a serious issue, especially if you are thinking about selling your house. If your residence faces water leakage issues, it is strongly advised that you fix them on time because no potential family would like to buy them.
In fact, if you repair the entire water system properly, there is a great possibility that it can help you even increase the overall value of your residence.
Final Thoughts
The reality is water leaks can happen now and then in every home. Although some leakages can be fixed immediately without causing any major consequences, there may be some severe outflows that can pose a real danger to your property and even your health.
That’s why you must pay attention to any strange odors in your home or discoloration in your walls, as those are the most common signs that indicate something may be wrong.
For more about water leaks, refer to our guide to learn about the hidden damages and what you can do to protect your house and family.
