I Have Cold Water Leaking From Behind the Wall

Causes

• Homes often develop leaks in the roof from missing or damaged shingles. Moisture often leaks in around chimney flashing that has become loose over time or was improperly installed. Leaks in the plumbing pipes inside your walls can cause water to seep into your home. When cold water appears on interior walls, it is usually the result of the condensation that occurs when cold outdoor air meets warm indoor air. During snowy weather, ice dams may form on your roof causing the roof to leak cold water into your home.

Effects

• When moisture is present on your interior walls, it can cause brown or yellow water stains. Constant moisture also provides the ideal environment for mold growth. When mold begins to grow inside your home, you and your family may experience adverse health effects such as sneezing, wheezing, nasal congestion and difficulty breathing. Those with asthma or other serious respiratory problems may suffer an increase in symptom severity after exposure to mold spores. Mold growth will eventually damage your walls, making it necessary to repair or replace drywall.

Solution

• Repair or replace any damaged or missing shingles on your roof. Hire a plumber to determine if leaky plumbing is the cause of your water leak. If ice dams are causing water to come inside your home and run down the walls, it usually requires hiring a roofing contractor for repair. Ice dams make roofs slippery and dangerous for those who are inexperienced in roof repair. Attempting to chip ice away from your roof can damage your roof further or injure someone standing below the roof. Properly sealing all air leaks inside your home will reduce condensation during the winter months. Caulk all visible gaps around ceilings, windows and window sills for best results.

After Repair

• After you have located and repaired the source of your water leak, you must examine your walls and ceilings for signs of mold growth. Mold looks similar to splattered paint in shades of gray, green, white or black. Hidden areas such as behind wallpaper can also harbor mold growth. If you have mold inside your home, you must remove it to avoid structural damage and health problems. Scrub the mold away using liquid dish detergent, water and a stiff brush. Rinse the area once mold is gone and dry. If you have asthma or another respiratory condition, do not attempt to remove mold yourself or remain in your home while it is being removed. Hiring a removal specialist is best.