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Many homeowners may think that water damage can easily be detected. In some cases that is true; large puddles, flooded basements, and rotting wood are typically easy to see and are clear indicators of water damage. However, not all signs are noticeable right away, especially in a crawlspace. Read over some of the subtle signs you need to look out for to determine if you need crawlspace waterproofing.

1. You discover small watermarks or stains

Large pools of water and major leaks are easy to spot, and you may even expect them after a major rainstorm. However, it is easy to overlook small stains and water marks. You may wonder if they have been there for years without a problem or expect them to go away. Even the smallest water stain could be an indicator of a larger problem.

It is important to carefully check your crawlspace for these smaller water stains, such as grey, white, or orange spots. If you find one, have it checked out by a professional immediately. You could be potentially saving your home from further damage. Once the issue is resolved, invest in crawlspace waterproofing to ensure that water stays out of the space.

2. You see shimmers in odd places

Moisture problems do not only cause water stains; they can also cause sparkles or shimmers on the wall and ceiling. This occurs when water leaves mineral deposits on the surface after it evaporates. These shimmers can be hard to notice at first, so you need to look over the area carefully.

If you notice any shimmering, then water got into your crawlspace at some point. Waterproofing the area after removing the mineral deposits will keep moisture away.

3. You experience odd smells

Black mold can cause health issues in the home, especially respiratory problems. Since crawlspaces often have high humidity levels, they provide ideal conditions for mold to grow. While black mold is sometimes easy to spot in the home, it can be difficult to see in a small, dark crawlspace.

Another useful indicator of a mold problem is a sour or musty smell. If you smell this when you enter the crawlspace or notice an odd smell in the room above the crawlspace, you may have a mold problem. Investing in crawlspace waterproofing can help you avoid this in the future.

By staying on top of any moisture problems, you can keep your home healthy and free of major damage.

Contact the professionals at A.M. Shield Waterproofing today! (516) 294-8400