The Causes of Leaking Yellow Walls

Ice Dams

• Ice dams are a common cause of indoor flooding in areas that experience below-freezing temperatures. The dam is a hardened block of ice that prevents water from draining from roofs and angled surfaces. As melting snow contributes to the trapped water supply, the rising pressure forces moisture through the roof into the upper levels of the house. The water then leaks through the attic and insulated space onto the finished ceiling and walls inside. Monitoring roofs during periods of freezing rain or snow and removing ice build-up prevents dams from harming interior walls.

Appliances

• Several household appliances can contribute to indoor flooding and discoloration of painted walls, particularly if they are located above the ground floor. Dishwashers may leak if their connection to the sink plumbing is loose or broken. They may also release soapy water if excessive detergent is placed in the appliance. Melting ice in refrigerators and freezers can also cause minor flooding if the appliance loses power for an extended period of time.

Plumbing

• Bathrooms are a common source of indoor flooding in domestic environments. Cracks in tub basins may allow water to seep through the floor into the rooms below it. Water from an overflowing toilet or from misdirected shower spray can also cause minor flooding. Sinks and showers with clogged drains should not be operated until the pipes have been cleared to prevent further water damage. Drainage and water supply pipes often run through the walls and ceilings of houses. A broken pipe can release a significant amount of water and should be repaired as soon as possible.

Solutions

• If the cause of indoor flooding is not immediately apparent, it may be necessary to turn off the water supply to the entire house, according to State Farm Insurance. Broken pipes may require a certified technician to fix. Attempting to repair plumbing without the appropriate credentials can cause additional problems and may even violate state or local building codes. High humidity levels can also cause walls to appear moist and become discolored. Increasing ventilation throughout the room can help alleviate humidity problems.