What Happens If You Ignore Water Leaks For Too Long?
The world is running out of the water as we speak. According to a report by Forbes, annual water losses in the United States amount to $14 billion! The report states that a major chunk of these losses is a result of us taking our water supply for granted and not paying attention to plumbing issues like leaks.
Here’s what happens if you ignore water leaks for too long:
Mold and mildew
When water leaks start showing up in your walls as seepage, you need to be concerned; from this point onward, they can lead to the development of mold and mildew.
Mold is not only bad for your home, but also for your health. It grows on the walls where the leakage took place—or anywhere where condensation builds up.
The presence of mold is especially concerning if the room is closed and there is limited air circulation—a common example: behind the closet. Other than that, upholstery, carpets, and cellulose-based products also attract mold.
Mold spores travel through the air and are known to cause a number of health concerns, including allergies and asthma. People who live in a moldy environment complain of symptoms like a runny nose, red and watery eyes, constant sneezing, and skin irritation.
In addition, the entire place gives off an unpleasant musty odor. The best ways to combat this issue is to get any leaks fixed, use a dehumidifier to keep the room moisture-free, and always keep the windows open.
The appearance of your house
If water leaks remain ignored for too long, you’ll start seeing ugly stains on your walls. Warped walls not only reduce the aesthetic appeal of your house, but may also lower its commercial value.
No one likes moldy patches dominating the walls of their otherwise pristine-looking living room. Plus, once the damage spreads to the walls, your repair expenses will also increase. Now you have to pay to get the entire wall re-plastered and repainted. It’s best to just get the leak fixed early.
Poor plumbing efficiency
If your plumbing system is losing water in a certain area, the entire system’s efficiency gets affected. This reduces the pressure and the flow of water in almost all the valves and fixtures.
As a result, you can no longer wash, bathe, or clean the way you used to. Filling up tubs can take ages and your showers can become quite unenjoyable. The best way to confirm a leak is to check the bills. If the water flow is weak and the bills are still high, the culprit is a leak!
Just by getting a simple leak fixed, you can avert a possible water disaster at your home! If you’re based in Fort Worth, Texas, Pro Serve Plumbing will be glad to serve you. Give us a call at 817-244-0614.
