It’s important to be aware of tell-tale signs of a water leak in your bathroom wall. If you notice a musty smell, peeling paint, or patches of discoloration, it’s likely that there’s a leak in the wall. In this blog, we’ll discuss common ways to detect water leaks in a wall.
Standing Puddle of Water Near a Wall
Do you notice a standing puddle of water in a certain area near the wall? If the puddle forms near the washing machine, dishwasher, toilet, or sink, it is likely that there is a leak in the water pipeline leading to them.
Discoloration in the Wall
If there is a leak, the water will seep into the wall and cause discoloration. This discoloration will be irregular, and if there is paint or wallpaper on the wall, it will eventually start peeling off.
Change in Wall Texture
Walls with water leaks develop a bubble-like texture. If you see any bubble-like changes in your wall texture, it is time to take a closer look and detect the source of the leak.
Mold or Mildew on the Wall
If there has been a leak in the wall for a long time, mold and mildew will start growing in the wall. Mold and mildew don’t just make the wall look ugly, but can also cause allergies and related health hazards.
A Musty Smell in Your Home or Business
If the leak is in the wall for a long while, the entirety of your home or business will start smelling musty.
Increased Water Bills
Finally, a water leak inside the wall of your bathroom (or any other room) can be evidenced by an unexpected increase in water bills.
If you suspect a water leak, turn off all sources of water in the house and take note of the water meter reading. Wait for about 3-4 hours, and then check the water meter reading again. If the meter reading has increased, the cause of the leak is likely inside the house. If the meter reading doesn’t change, the source of the leak is not the plumbing system of the house.
You can also use a moisture meter to detect the exact source of the water leak. Just place the meter against the spot where you suspect a leak and it will analyze the moisture. Be sure to place the meter near the spot on the wall that is most wet.
Repairing a leak inside a wall requires expert repair and should not be attempted as a DIY project. If you’re in need of commercial plumbing services or residential plumbing services in Hyattsville or Gambrills, consider Werrlein Services. We offer fast and reliable service for all plumbing needs. Schedule your appointment online now!
