When you notice a water leak, even a small one, it should never be ignored. Whether the source of the leak is plumbing, an appliance malfunction, or a leaking roof or window, the problem needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Even the smallest amount of excess water can lead to substantial damage and costly water mitigation. Here are a few tips from the professionals at Entrusted to prevent a small leak from becoming a big problem.
Know the Signs of a Plumbing or Roof Leak
If there is any way for water to get into your home, water will find it. Two of the main culprits for home leaks are plumbing and roofs. One of the more easily spotted signs of a plumbing leak is an unexpected jump in your monthly water bill. If you notice your water bill seems higher than normal, inspect your home for the following:
- Leaking pipe joints or P-traps underneath sinks
- Leaks around appliances that use water
- Corrosion on supply lines to appliances and fixtures
- Stains below supply line connections
- Broken toilet tank flappers
- Odd smells coming from drains, which may be an indication of a sewer leak
- Warped or discolored flooring
- Water stains on the walls and ceiling directly below bathrooms
Water stains on walls and ceilings are also a good indication that you might have a roof leak. Additional signs to be aware of include a musty smell in the attic, peeling paint around skylights, deteriorating drywall, missing or damaged shingles, and damaged flashing.
Steps to Take After Discovering Water Damage
Fortunately in many cases, repairing water leaks is fairly easy to do. When the toilet is leaking, it often is a simple flapper valve that needs to be replaced. A leaking faucet might just require a new O-ring. In the event that the leak requires more than a simple fix, it can be beneficial to call a professional to fix the issue for you. This can save you time while keeping the repair cost to a minimum.
While waiting for a professional to arrive, there are a few things you can do to mitigate the damage as the result of a plumbing or appliance leak. The first step is to shut off the local water supply at the site of the leak. Here’s where you can find the shut-off valve locations for some of the most common fixtures and household appliances:
- Sink: under the sink, next to the water supply line. There will typically be two different shut-off valves, one for the hot water and the other for the cold water supply.
- Dishwasher: also located under the sink, generally next to the sink shut-off valves.
- Toilet: next to the toilet, close to the floor, will be a part of the water supply line to the toilet.
- Refrigerator with water and ice dispensers: located on the supply tubing running to the refrigerator. Most often the supply line is located behind the refrigerator or under a nearby sink.
To prevent the potential for long-term damage due to standing water, you can mop up any water on the floor or around the area where the leak has occurred. It is important to keep in mind that when there is a water leak, there is an increased risk for mold growth. Even if it seems like an insignificant water leak, it can be an indication of a larger issue lurking beneath the surface. Which is why it is important that when you discover a water leak, you take the necessary steps to prevent a larger problem from occurring.
If you do discover you have a  water leak, contact the professionals at Entrusted. We can help to restore your home, removing the worry that  water issues may arise and mold problems develop. Don’t attempt to do it yourself, call Entrusted!