How to Tell If There Is Water Leaking in Your Walls

The water leaking through your walls is not a welcomed sight, but it's important to know how much of an issue this really poses. The professional Atlanta water damage restoration team at The Homestar Group have put together some simple steps that will help you determine whether or not there might be more going on with those pesky leaks in order for us all avoid any future headaches!

Common Signs of Water Leaking Through Walls

A leaky pipe in the plumbing system might only have a leak as small as a pinhole. It is challenging to locate, especially where water does not drip directly from the source. Signs of leaks include: 

• Discolored or damp drywall sections
• Trim with “rust” marks
• Damp floors or walls
• Mildew or mold growth
• Musty odors
• Dripping sounds
• Pooling water
• Bubbling or peeling paint or wallpaper

How to Check for Leaks

Leaks may bead up and run down pipes or the framing of the walls. So, the wet spots visible on the outside surfaces might only be the lowest point, not the leak site. Experts like The Homestar Group use devices like a moisture meter to assess the condensation levels and identify a likely source for the leak.

We might also use an infrared camera to find leaks without needing to break through the walls or flooring. If you do not have these tools, why not call a technician from services like The Homestar Group for some assistance? The sooner you identify the leak, the more water damage you can avoid.

Identifying Potential Sources

If water leakage seems obvious, follow the water leaking through walls to its source by checking the following areas:

Interior Plumbing

Switch off all appliances that use water and close the faucets. Take a reading from the water meter and then wait for three to four hours before taking another reading of the moisture level. If the meter shows water usage, there are leaking pipes inside the plumbing system.

Exterior Above Grade Plumbing

If the interior system is clear, check outside for leaks or clogging, including:

• Clogged gutters
• Flaking caulking
• Damaged downspouts
• Flashing on windows, chimneys, doors, vents

Exterior Below Grade Plumbing

Issues below ground might manifest as rising dampness in walls. There are many possible reasons for these leaks, including where downspouts are not draining properly, or there is a broken irrigation system. It might also be where the grading slopes toward the property or French drains need attention. 



The Homestar Group typically uses state-of-the-art cameras to check below-grade plumbing as these areas are hard to reach, and the system is usually extensive.

When to Order Repairs

Locating the issue is the main problem, and repairs do not take long once our professionals know the leak’s location. If the pipe is out in the open, it might involve patching a hole. If it is underground or in the interior plumbing system, there may be a need to open the wall to access the lines. 

Exterior above-grade leaks are easy, including repairs on:

• Clogged Gutters: We remove blockages from the gutters and downspouts.
• Caulking Repairs: We scrape off flaking caulking and apply a fresh coat.
• Flashing: We check the flashing (the barrier between the roof and a vertical wall) and repair breaks to restore a watertight seal.

With exterior below-grade leaks, much of the plumbing is below the ground. Repairs may involve: 

• Irrigation systems: We repair the leaking piece or replace it altogether.
• Downspouts: We ensure that the water coming down the downspout flows away from the walls and foundation.
• Grading: We check that water will drain away from the building so that moisture will not accumulate along the walls or pool along ground-level surfaces.
• Basement: We check the waterproofing to see if it can prevent flooding. We might also recommend a membrane on the exterior walls or a sump pump for the floor.
• French drains: These drains lead water away from the building. We check for waterlogged soil, which is an urgent reason to have someone check for blockages or caved-in drains.

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Timelines Matter So Always Seek Professional Assistance

Time is a critical factor for stopping leaks in walls and other areas. The increased moisture in the walls creates the ideal environment for mold and rot and leads to costly restoration needs for property owners who do not act quickly. The problem is that the damage is usually there by the time you notice the leak, so there should be no delay in calling for professional water damage assistance.

Services like The Homestar Group offer highly skilled professionals with extensive experience. They also use the latest equipment for outstanding results through rapid leak detection and repair. Why not let us locate the source of your water leak and sort out the details?

If you suspect there is water leaking through walls, floors, or other surfaces on your property, Contact The Homestar Group at (678) 928-5377 today for a thorough check and complete peace of mind.