How To Know If Your Home’s Baseboards Have Water Damage

Every year millions of homeowners across America have to file water damage claims after a water emergency event occurs. This problem has been increasing in recent years due to old pipes and severe weather storms.

Dealing with any water event can be stressful. Baseboard water damage can be difficult to spot as many homeowners may not know how to recognize the signs. The signs of baseboard water damage can vary depending on the location and amount of damage. After any water event, you may be wondering if your home’s baseboards are damaged, especially if they are covered with carpeting or rugs.

United Water Restoration Group, a company that deals in water, fire, mold, flood, and storm damage remediation, would like to discuss baseboard damage. Recognizing baseboard water damage can be hard as the signs aren’t always immediate.

Baseboard damage can cause many problems such as structural integrity issues. These problems can pose a serious threat and render a building uninhabitable.

How to Spot Baseboard Water Damage

There are several ways to spot baseboard water damage. The first way is to look for signs of discoloration. If your home’s baseboards have water damage, they will likely warp and have signs of discoloration. This discoloration could look like a black splotch on your baseboards or be more extreme and entirely discolor the panel.

Another way to spot water damage is to observe water damage from walls or ceilings. If these areas are damaged, it is very likely your baseboards will have water damage as well. 

If you are having trouble visually spotting water damage, your nose can help spot it. Water damage has a very old, musty, specific smell that can linger even after a water damage event ends. This smell can be key for discovering baseboard water damage before it grows and continues to worsen.

Peeling paint or damaged wallpaper can also be a sign of water damage to your baseboards. It is highly likely that if your paint is peeling or wallpaper is deteriorating that you have water damage occurring. This type of water damage can and will cause baseboard water damage as well.

What Causes Water Damage on Baseboards

Water damage on baseboards can come from various sources. One common cause is water intrusion from a leaking roof or plumbing issue. If you notice moisture along baseboards or water stains on baseboards, this is often a sign of a problem. Baseboard discoloration and peeling paint are also indicators of underlying water damage.

Another cause is flooding or heavy rain. When water gets under baseboards, it can lead to mold growth and other issues. This can be especially problematic if the water leak goes unnoticed for a long time. Over time, the water can seep into the sole plate and cause significant structural damage.

High humidity levels in your home can also cause water damage on baseboards. Moisture along baseboards can warp the wood and cause it to expand. It’s important to address the source of the moisture to prevent further damage. Identifying and fixing these issues promptly can save you time and money in the long run.

 

How to Fix Baseboard Water Damage

Typically, baseboard water damage is a sign of a much more major problem. To fix baseboard water damage, you’ll want to solve the underlying problem of the leak. You must identify where the leak comes from and stop further water damage from coming into your home. After that, you will have to clean and sanitize the baseboards and possibly replace them entirely.

Fixing water-damaged baseboards involves several steps. First, you need to remove the baseboards carefully. Start by removing the nails with a nail set and gently prying the baseboard away from the wall. Use a miter box to cut new baseboards if needed. Make sure the wall is dry before installing new baseboards to prevent further damage.

When replacing the baseboard, consider using base shoe molding for a clean finish. Ensure you drill pilot holes before driving finish nails into the baseboard. This helps prevent the wood from splitting. Place the nails at the foot of the baseboard for a secure hold. Be sure to remove the existing base shoe if it’s damaged.

After installing the new baseboards, you may need to touch up with paint or stain. Use unpainted wood if you prefer a natural look, or match the paint to your existing decor. Make sure to check for any remaining moisture along baseboards to prevent future damage. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can keep your home in good condition and prevent water damage.

Let United Water Restoration Fix Your Baseboards for You!

United Water Restoration Group technicians can also assist in replacing and repairing baseboard water damage. To learn more about United Water Restoration Group’s water damage restoration services, check out our blog that details these services! If you are experiencing a water damage emergency, you can contact United Water Restoration Group’s emergency hotline at (800) 430-5838. Our hotline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and will place you in direct contact with one of our certified technicians! 

We provide services in Ormond Beach, Florida, Jacksonville, Florida, Daytona Beach, Florida, Orlando, Florida, Tampa, Florida, Melbourne, Florida, and many other locations around Florida!