India is a tropical country with great biodiversity. Due to geographical warp and weft, lots of rain is anticipated throughout the year across different regions of India. While it is beneficial for plants and agriculture, water seeps into walls, causing severe damage. If you belong to those regions, get rid of moisture and make your house moisture-proof by reading this detailed guide on how to find and repair water leaks in walls.
Wall leaks are highly detrimental phenomena in which walls become permeable due to constant moisture ingress, causing long-term structural damage. The common sources of wall leaks are poor plumbing, rain seepage, and faulty waterproofing. Leaks may contain mould and bacteria that cause serious health issues, like respiratory issues and allergies. That’s why leaks are more serious than you think.
Visual inspection is the first and foremost inspection that helps identify the signs of water leakage inside the wall. It involves checking for stains, peeling paint, and warped surfaces. Discolouration is also a strong sign of water leakage.
Moisture meters and thermal imaging are viable techniques for detecting water leakage in the walls. The moisture meter measures the moisture content in infrastructure, whereas thermal imaging detects the temperature differences due to water seepage.
In this inspection method, turn off all the water taps and appliances, and listen for dripping or hissing sounds around the suspected areas. You can use a stethoscope or acoustic leak detector for more sensitive listening.
Water leakage progressively weakens the structural integrity of the infrastructure by corroding metal components and developing mould and mildew. It can have dangerous consequences, including health concerns, electrical hazards, and even heavy structural damage. Moreover, mould infestation deteriorates the indoor air quality and develops pest problems due to dampness. Ultimately, it leads to costlier repairs over time.
Firstly, the source of the leakage must be identified and stopped. It involves turning off the water supply and marking the leak locations. To mark damp areas completely, you must also look for signs, like water stains, rust, and other related signs.
In the second step, remove the wet or damaged materials from marked areas. It includes scraping off the loose paint, cutting damp drywalls, and cleaning visible mould and mildew development. Doing so will prepare the wet surface for further wall leak repair and eliminate the possibility of further moisture expansion.
In the third step, use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the affected areas. It ensures the repairing solutions will stick to the wall effectively and provide a long-lasting effect. While drying, ensure air is blown directly onto the affected area to dry out the moisture completely.
After preparing the affected areas for repair, apply sealants or waterproofing agents to stop the leakage. The waterproofing solutions must be chosen carefully and according to the level of moisture and materials used.
Finally, restore the wall by patching, sanding, and priming the area. Replace the affected drywalls and paint them, ensuring the paint matches the existing colour for a finished look.
To prevent water damage in walls, always use only quality waterproofing solutions manufactured by a trusted construction chemical company, like MCON Rasayan. Moisture usually enters the walls due to constant exposure to rain and heat, so ensure you waterproof the exterior walls with quality waterproofing solutions for added protection. Moreover, you can install smart home leak detectors to get prior alerts of moisture build-up in the wall.
If all the steps shared above didn’t work or the leak source is unknown and inaccessible, calling professionals is advised, as they have the required tools and expertise to tackle the general severe moisture issues. Moreover, if load-bearing walls have water seepage or plumbing issues, always have them repaired by a professional to ensure the safety of the building’s structural integrity.
Water leakage in walls is a common problem that, if ignored, can lead to severe consequences and costlier repairs over time. Follow the shared information and steps to get the moisture buildup off the walls and make them safe and secure for the long term. Contact MCON Rasayan for high-quality waterproofing solutions for the walls and tile adhesives. We are India’s number one wall waterproofing and tile adhesive manufacturer and are known for our cost-effective and quality products. Contact us today!