How a Leak or Water Damage Disaster Can Draw Pest into the Home

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: A hidden water leak can attract vermin and pests, and SERVPRO of Carrollton is informing property owners of this unusual sign of water damage.

The team of professionals at SERVPRO of Carrollton is available 24/7, 365 days a year, to respond immediately to water damage in Dallas, TX. Minutes count when a home or business faces a water intrusion. The scope of the disaster expands every minute that water pours through the roof or spreads through the house from a ruptured appliance supply line. In some instances, the slow leaks that go unnoticed or unresolved cause advanced secondary water damage that can lead to thousands of dollars in property damage and restoration costs. SERVPRO of Carrollton explains how water damage from household leaks can attract pests and vermin. These intruders introduce disease and other contaminants into the water-damaged area.

What Pests Are Attracted to Water Leaks?

Rodents love water leaks. Rats, mice, squirrels, and chipmunks are common types of rodents found in Dallas, TX. More than one kind of skunk also calls this area home. Raccoons and possums will sometimes join the crowd of critters looking for an endless supply of water.

A favorite hideout for these nuisance animals is the crawl space where these pests will enjoy a cool drink from a leaking pipe. Do not be surprised to see a skunk or squirrel lapping up water from a dripping spigot. On a hot Texas afternoon, a clogged gutter or downspout with standing water provides an oasis for vermin.

A water leak will also attract a legion of insects and spiders. The more common six- and eight-legged pests include termites, cockroaches, ants of every sort, mosquitoes, scorpions, spiders, and silverfish. These tiny creatures can go unnoticed, building their colonies and gaining a secure foothold in the home. The proliferation of insects and spiders may be sending the homeowner an indirect message that there is a serious water leak somewhere in the house.

What Types of Damages Can Water Leaks Do to a Home?

Water leaks under the sink and around the bathtub or shower can damage walls, ceilings, subflooring, and baseboards. If left unresolved, water leaks can cause wood rot, mold, and mildew to develop over time. Eventually, the soft, spongy floor can give way under the toilet, tub, or shower.

Pests can also cause damage, but the type of damage depends on the type of pest. Rodents and other small mammals will collect insulation and other materials to build nests, mate, and give birth. These animals have sharp teeth and love to gnaw on electrical wiring, wood, concrete, PVC conduit, and plastic plumbing. A minor leak can become a gushing torrent of water, causing thousands of dollars in water damage.

These cute, fuzzy creatures carry a myriad of diseases, mites, fleas, and ticks. Skunks and raccoons may carry rabies. A scratch or bite from an uninvited, infected house guest could cause serious health issues.

Wood-Destroying Pests

Rotting, moist wood is a favorite of carpenter ants, termites, and powderpost beetles. They love the safe, dark environment under sinks and appliances, in the crawl space, and in the attic.

Evidence of a termite infestation include:

• paint bubbling on walls and ceilings
• small mud-like tubes on the sides of the house
• tiny pin-sized holes in cabinets or drywall
• soft spots on laminate or hardwood flooring
• fine sawdust along the baseboards

The homeowner should seek an inspection and treatment from a reputable pest control company. Any property damage or water damage should be repaired. Hire a qualified plumber to inspect the plumbing and repair any leaks.

An explosion in the population of mosquitoes, cockroaches, spiders, and silverfish may be sending a message to the homeowner that there is a water leak in the home. If water damage is discovered, contact the water damage restoration experts at SERVPRO of Carrollton. They will respond rapidly within the hour to begin the cleanup, repair, and restoration process. Secondary advanced water damage will be halted, and mold issues will be diagnosed and remediated. Cleaning, deodorizing, and sanitizing will make the home clean, safe, and fresh. The pest control company can remove the pests. SERVPRO of Carrollton can clean up the mess and restore the damaged areas.

For more information about water damage restoration in Dallas, TX, and the surrounding areas, contact SERVPRO of Carrollton by phone at (972) 446-0383 or by email at office@SERVPRO10952.com