Your house can be your sanctuary and one of your biggest investments.  Homeowners do everything to protect their homes and their investments.  However, events beyond our control like rainstorms or floods and even leaky pipes lead to the destruction of properties.  And no homeowner would want to deal with any kind of household problem such as water damage. Too much moisture in the home if left unattended could affect the interior structures of the house most especially—- the walls. 

Common Indicators Of Too Much Moisture In Your Home

Spotting these signs earlier will prevent further water damage:

• Peeling or flaking paint 
• Curling wallpaper
• Water stains and discoloration
• Change in texture (Walls that feel damp to the touch)
• Visible mold
• A stale, musty odor

Causes Of Wet or Damp Walls

When moisture comes in and can’t get out of your home, it causes problems.  The most common causes of moisture problems in homes are condensation, leaks, and blocked drains.

Condensation On Walls

Condensation in a household setting is when airborne water vapor condenses into a liquid and is deposited on interior (or exterior) surfaces.  When hot, moist air hits cold, dry air, it causes water droplets to form on the cold surfaces (like your walls).  This event is more common in bathrooms and kitchens, where steam is produced by bathing or cooking.

Homes are vulnerable to condensation problems during the colder months.  A large temperature difference between the air outside and the air inside your home encourages condensation on surfaces like walls and windows. This excess condensation can cause wet walls, encouraging mold growth and drywall stains.

Drains and Downpipes Blockage

Blockages in your drainage system pose a threat and can be one of the leading causes of leaks. Blocked drains are caused by a number of objects being flushed down your pipes and debris building up over time. This build-up can cause pressure on your pipes which can reduce the flow efficiency of your drainage system and can cause broken pipes and leaks over time.

Leaks

The most apparent cause of leaks is problems with plumbing. Almost every homeowner has dealt with a leaky bathtub or sink. Faults in the roof structure, including damaged or missing tiles, poor flashing and broken or cracked gutters and drainpipes, can be the cause of dampness in the house. Also common are issues with water-wielding appliances — washing machines and dishwashers are often the culprits.

Steps of Drying Wet or Damp Walls Naturally

Natural ventilation is the least expensive method and one alternative for drying out a wall.  However, this method consumes time and mold can easily spread while waiting for the walls to dry. The following are steps in drying out damp walls:

1. Shut off the water supply or water source promptly.
2. Remove wall hangings, paintings, and wallpaper carefully. 
3. Check any wall or ceiling insulation.  Start removing and drying the insulation from the ceiling down to the floor.  Soaked insulation should be disposed of.
4. To properly dry out a wall, you need to remove any molding at the top of the wall and baseboards on the floor. Otherwise, the walls won’t have proper ventilation, and moisture can remain trapped behind the baseboard and molding.
5. Open up your house to increase air circulation.  Open windows, doors, and wall-mounted cabinets then use room fans on the wet area until the walls are dry. Just be careful about plugging in electrical appliances near water. 
6. To accelerate the drying process, turn on your house’s air conditioner to reduce the humidity in the air.

Dealing With the Water Damage

If your walls are extensively damaged, you may need to consult a professional.  Our team at Lake Elsinore will help you solve water damage problems.  If you need our services, don’t hesitate to contact our local office, Water Damage Lake Elsinore.  We offer 24/7 emergency service. Give us a call to know more about our services.