DIY guideWall

Look at the bottom of the panelling in bathrooms and basements

Water shows first at the bottom of wall panelling. Look and press along it for swelling, stains and soft spots, so a leak is found before it spreads.

7 steps

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Shine a flashlight along the bottom of the panelling, near the floor. Light from the side shows swelling and ripples.
Look for edges that have puffed up, seams that have opened, or panels that bow out at the bottom.
Look for dark lines, tide marks, or black or white spots on the panelling or the baseboard.
Black spots may be mould: don't scrub or sand them.
Press gently with your thumb every hand's width along the bottom. Firm is good. Soft, spongy or crumbly is not.
A musty smell near the floor is a sign of damp behind it, even where it looks fine.
Take a close photo of each spot, with something beside it for size, and note which wall.
Soft or swollen panelling, spreading stains, or a musty smell mean water is getting behind it: ask Handyman for a plumber to find the leak. Don't pull the panelling off to look.

Handyman says: Soft spots? I'll find a plumber.

Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.