Hidden Water Leaks: Signs to Watch For and How Thermal Imaging Finds Them

Small leaks, big repairs

A slow leak behind a wall or above a ceiling can go on for months before you see it. By then it may have damaged drywall, flooring, cabinets or framing, and started mold. In South Florida, finding water early is one of the best ways to protect your home and avoid a big repair bill.

Signs of a hidden leak

A water bill that's higher than usual with no change in how much water you use.

Stains, bubbling paint or soft spots on walls and ceilings.

Warped or lifting floors, or swollen baseboards and cabinet bottoms.

A musty smell in one area of the home.

The sound of running water when nothing is on.

Cracked tile or grout around showers and tubs.

Where leaks usually come from

The AC system. A clogged drain line or a rusted drain pan can overflow into walls and ceilings.

Plumbing. Supply lines under sinks and toilets, the water heater, and pipes inside walls.

Showers and tubs. Failed grout, caulk or shower pans.

Windows and doors. Worn seals and flashing, especially during heavy rain.

The roof. Damaged flashing, cracked tiles or worn underlayment.

How thermal imaging helps

A thermal imaging camera shows temperature differences on a surface. Wet materials are usually cooler than dry ones as the water evaporates, so a hidden leak often shows up as a cool spot or pattern on a wall or ceiling. It lets us scan a whole room quickly without cutting into anything.

Thermal imaging doesn't see through walls, and a cool spot isn't always water. That's why we confirm what we find with a moisture meter, which measures moisture directly in the material. Together, the two tools find problems that are easy to miss with your eyes alone.

Included with every inspection

We bring a moisture meter and a thermal imaging camera to every home inspection. If you're worried about a specific leak or mold, we also offer a mold inspection focused on finding moisture. Once we find the source, a licensed plumber, roofer or AC contractor can fix it.