Seepage is one of the most dangerous problems in a home, because it starts quietly and by the time it becomes visible, it has often already caused damage to walls, ceilings, floors, furniture and even the building's structure. Detecting a leak early can prevent expensive renovations, health problems and conflicts with neighbors.
In this comprehensive guide we explain how to spot the first signs, the main causes, detection methods and when to call in a professional. If you suspect a leak, the company Canalizador de Lisboa is the best solution for locating the leak quickly and without unnecessary destruction.
Early signs of infiltration
Even when the water is not visible, its effect usually leaves clear clues. These are the main warning signs:
1. damp spots on the walls or ceiling
The stains can be yellowish, brownish or grayish. They usually increase over time and indicate the constant presence of water.
2. Peeling or caked paint
When moisture builds up behind the paint, the paint begins to loosen or bubble.
3. Persistent musty smell
Even without visible stains, a strong musty smell is a sign of hidden damp.
4. Swollen or loosening skirting boards
Water can seep through the floor and affect skirting boards, wood and laminate.
5. Increased water bills
If there has been no change in consumption, but the bill has increased, there may be an ongoing leak somewhere in the pipe.
6. Water sounds when everything is off
If you hear dripping or flowing inside the walls, this is a clear sign of an internal leak.
Main causes of leaks in houses and apartments
Infiltrations can have various origins, not always directly related to internal plumbing.
- Cracked or corroded pipes inside the wall
- Poorly sealed joints in bathrooms and kitchens
- Cracks in facades or exterior walls
- Problems on roofs, balconies or terraces
- Waterproofing failures
- Blockages that cause water to back up
- Infiltration from neighboring apartments
Therefore, correctly identifying the source of the infiltration is essential before any repairs are carried out.
How to detect leaks before they get worse
There are simple and more advanced methods for identifying infiltrations early on.
1. regular visual inspection
Look at walls, ceilings, corners and areas near bathrooms and kitchens. Small stains can be the start of a big problem.
2. Testing the water meter
Turn off all taps and unplug household appliances. If the meter continues to run, there is an active leak in the installation.
3. Checking critical areas
Areas such as under the sink, behind the washing machine and next to the water heater are frequent leakage points.
4. Thermal cameras
Professionals use cameras that detect temperature differences caused by moisture accumulated inside the walls.
5. Acoustic equipment
They allow you to hear the sound of water escaping, even when there are no visual signals.
6. Pipe pressure tests
Pressure changes help to confirm whether there is a leak in the internal network.
To better understand the rights and responsibilities in cases of infiltration, especially in buildings, you can consult the DECO Proteste, which explains how to proceed in situations of damage and conflict between neighbors.
Risks of not treating an infiltration in time
Ignoring leaks can have serious consequences:
- Degradation of walls, ceilings and floors
- Proliferation of molds harmful to health
- Respiratory problems and allergies
- Damage to wooden and metal structures
- Short circuits and electrical hazards
- Large-scale, expensive works
The sooner the infiltration is detected, the simpler and cheaper it will be to repair.
When should you call a professional?
You should seek specialized help when:
- The stains increase rapidly
- There is a strong and persistent smell of mold
- Water bill rises without explanation
- Cannot locate the source of the infiltration
- Suspected leak in the wall or on the floor
- The problem comes from common areas of the building
In these cases, only professional equipment can locate the leak without the need to break up large areas.
Why choose Canalizador de Lisboa
The Lisbon Plumber company specializes in detecting infiltrations and hidden leaks, using modern methods that prevent unnecessary destruction of your home.
Our advantages include:
- Precise location of the leak
- Non-destructive detection equipment
- Effective and long-lasting repairs
- Fast service in and around Lisbon
- Emergency service when necessary
The sooner you act, the less the financial and structural impact of the problem will be.
Conclusion
Detecting leaks before they cause damage is essential for keeping your home safe and healthy and avoiding costly renovations. With attention to the early signs and professional diagnosis, it is possible to solve the problem quickly and effectively.
If you suspect a leak, don't wait for the damage to escalate. Lisbon Plumber is ready to help locate and solve any leak before it becomes a bigger problem.
