Although we use our bathrooms daily, few people make an effort to thoroughly inspect them. However, you should check all of the components every now and then and repair or replace any broken parts before a minor problem ends up being a big one. When it comes to home improvement items, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Where to Look in Your Bathroom for Possible Water Damage
The bathroom’s constant use of water makes it especially sensitive to moisture buildup and subsequent water damage. However, you can prevent water damage by checking it regularly. Below are a couple of places to check out for water damage in your bathroom.
Walls
Check for any problems with the paint or wallpaper. To begin, run your hand along the wall, finding any indications of moisture. Any moisture behind the wall could indicate a leak, which needs to be checked even more. Click here to learn more.
After that, check if the exhaust fan is functioning correctly. If the fan turns slowly because of built-up particles, clean it using compressed air from a can. Obviously, if the fan stops working, fix it right away because your exhaust fan is your best protection against moisture damage. Moisture usually happens after water damage, call a flood cleanup company that can help you remove moisture.
Shower or Bathtub
Look for mold in the grout or shed pieces of the grout. As soon as possible, fix any areas where the grout has fallen away. Next, check the showerhead and fixtures to ensure that they are in good working order and free of corrosion or lime buildup. Next, make a note of any tile damage and check out the drain attentively. Finally, make sure the shower door seals firmly and doesn’t leak water onto the flooring.
Toilet
The toilet is a little difficult because the space is limited, but get your flashlight out and thoroughly inspect the area surrounding the fittings and on the back of the tank for any signs of moisture. Also, check the tank for any leaks at the point where the tank joins the base.
A vulnerable water junction is a toilet. Look for leaks near the toilet seat, in the hose, and beneath the water tank in the water lines. Check the toilet rim and tank seals for leaks if there are any traces of moisture on the floor around the toilet. Remember that deodorants that are hung from the toilet bowl can cause blockages.
Bathroom Vanity
If you have a leak, pay special attention to the cabinet’s interior because it’s an ideal place for mold to grow. Check out the seals around the basin carefully and change any that are damaged right away.
If not handled soon, a slow drip can result in even more damage than you would realize. If significant damage has already happened, your best option is to face the bullet and get a new bathroom vanity cabinet. In most cases, it’s easier than cleaning and repairing an existing cabinet. Seek help from disaster restoration professionals if you experience water damage caused by a disaster.
Pipes
Since many pipes lie inside the walls, indications of water damage are hard to spot. However, pay special attention to moisture and stains on the flooring and walls, as they could indicate a hidden plumbing problem. Check the humidity levels in nearby rooms as well.
Conclusion
So, look for any traces of moisture or water damage in the bathroom’s flooring and walls to see any indication of water damage. If you see some warping or staining, speak to a professional to ensure there isn’t a leak.
Also, don’t limit your search to the bathroom. Go into the areas that share the bathroom’s walls. The wet place might sometimes go through the opposite side of the wall, however, the problem is caused by a leaking bathroom pipe.
The most typical areas subjected to regular water abuse and serious danger of water damage are bathrooms. Still, the cost and damage can be minimized if you follow these few easy procedures to prevent water damage.
