Why Leak Detection Matters for Oklahoma City Homeowners
Unnoticed water leaks can quietly cause major damage. From high utility bills to dangerous mold and structural issues, water leaks should never be overlooked. Because many Oklahoma City neighborhoods include homes with aging pipes and vulnerable infrastructure, water leakage has the power to decimate a residence and cause lasting complications.
The city’s warm, humid summers and springtime storms increase the risk of hidden leaks. Because of this, it is important for homeowners and tenants to understand how to detect water leak problems and who to call if they need help fixing their damaged homes. If you are struggling with residential water damage but you don’t know where to go, ServiceMaster by RSI – Oklahoma City is here to help. For more information on our services, contact us today at 405-267-7172 to learn more.
Common Signs You Might Have a Hidden Water Leak
One of the simplest ways to detect water leaks is to familiarize yourself with some of the most common signs of untreated leakage. Water stains on ceilings, walls, or floors are a telltale sign that there is an untreated water leak somewhere in your residence. Check for warped or bubbling paint and wallpaper, and be on the lookout for mold spots in unusual places.
Musty or damp smells in rooms or closets could be a sign of mold and mildew caused by a residential water leak. If you hear dripping or running water when fixtures are off, it is time to call a plumbing expert to resolve the issue. Unexplained spikes in your monthly water bill could also be caused by water leaks, and foundation cracks and shifting soil near the home are signs of severe water damage that should be treated immediately.
High-Risk Areas in Your Oklahoma City Home to Check for Leaks
Residential bathrooms are high-risk areas that may contain undetected water leaks. If you suspect a leak somewhere in your home, check around toilets and behind bathtubs. Pay close attention to underneath sinks, and be on the lookout for post-storm water intrusion around windows and doors. Other high-risk areas of residential spaces include:
- Under kitchen sinks
- Behind washing machines
- Behind or underneath water heaters
- Inside attics, where roof leaks may drip down
- Casements and crawlspaces prone to dampness
- Outdoor spigots and irrigation systems
Tools and DIY Methods to Help Detect Water Leaks
Professional detection services are helpful, but in certain cases, you may be able to use store-bought tools and DIY methods to locate hidden leaks. Use water meters to check for movement when no water is running, and install moisture meters and infrared thermometers to detect leaks behind walls, ceilings, and floors.
Consider installing water leak detectors with alarms for key areas in your home. This can quickly alert you to plumbing malfunctions that could damage your building materials and personal belongings. Keep an eye on your monthly water usage trends and pay attention to reduced water pressure. Lastly, conduct a routine home inspection every 6 months. Hiring a plumbing expert can detect leaks before they lead to long-term complications.
Why Oklahoma City’s Climate Makes Leak Detection Even More Important
Heavy spring thunderstorms can stress roofs and foundations, and storm surge and flash flooding risks add to hidden water intrusions. Hot, humid summers promote rapid mold growth after leaks, and seasonal soil shifts around foundations can cause pipe movement. Older homes in neighborhoods like The Paseo may have aging plumbing that is susceptible to malfunctions and damage. Irrigation leaks are common in Oklahoma City, and hard water can corrode pipes over time.
When It’s Time to Call in the Professionals
DIY repair and detection methods may sometimes be suitable to locate and treat water leaks, but certain situations require professional attention. If multiple rooms are showing signs of moisture or recurring mold growth, it is time to hire a professional team to treat your issues. Leak detection beyond walls or underground pipes requires expert plumbing professionals, and suspected slab leaks or foundation damage should always be left to water damage remediation experts.
Help is Here When You Need It Most
At ServiceMaster by RSI – Oklahoma City, local homeowners and tenants will always have access to expert water damage inspections and leak detection services. Dealing with water damage, leaks, and plumbing complications can be stressful, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Prompt action can save thousands of dollars on repair costs while protecting your loved ones from safety and health hazards.
Our mobile technicians are ready and willing to support Oklahoma City residents struggling with water leaks and ensuing water damage. Backed by a national brand, we utilize advanced tools and technology to find and stop leaks before they cause major damage. We respond quickly to service requests, and our team members are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide emergency leak detection and remediation.
Stay Dry and Worry-Free with a Proactive Approach
Catching leaks early is the key to avoiding costly repairs and damage. Understanding the common signs of water leakage and how to address damage is the best way to prevent long-term structural complications in your residence. For professional water damage inspections, leak detection services, and water damage repairs, ServiceMaster by RSI – Oklahoma City is here to help. Call us today at 405-267-7172 to learn more about our services and receive a free quote.