The short answer
Look for Visual Changes
Start by inspecting the wallpaper for any unusual stains or color changes. Water damage often creates yellow, brown, or darker patches that weren't there before. These spots may appear as rings or irregular blotches. The pattern might also become distorted or look blurry where moisture has seeped in behind the paper.
Pay close attention to the seams and edges of the wallpaper. Moisture can cause the adhesive to fail, leading to peeling or curling at the corners. The paper may lift away from the wall, creating visible gaps. Bubbling or a rippled texture across a flat surface is a clear sign that water is trapped underneath.
Check for Texture and Odor
Run your hand gently over the wallpaper's surface. Areas with hidden moisture will often feel cooler and slightly damp compared to dry sections. The paper might have a soft, spongy texture when pressed. In severe cases, you might even feel a slight give or squishiness, indicating significant water retention in the wallboard behind it.
A persistent musty or earthy smell in a room is a major red flag for hidden water damage. This odor is caused by mold or mildew growth feeding on the damp organic materials behind the wallpaper. If cleaning doesn't remove the smell, the source is likely inside the wall. Trust your nose; it can detect problems your eyes haven't seen yet.
- Press lightly on suspicious areas; soft spots suggest wet drywall.
- Sniff along the wall's surface, especially near floors or ceilings.
- Compare the wall's temperature to a known dry area nearby.
- Look for subtle swelling that changes the wall's contour.
- Listen for a faint crinkling sound when you touch the paper.
- Check if paint over the wallpaper is cracking or flaking.
Use a Moisture Meter
A moisture meter provides a more scientific reading than visual checks alone. You press the device's pins gently against the wallpaper surface to measure its moisture content. A significantly higher reading on one part of the wall compared to a dry control area confirms hidden water. These tools are available at most hardware stores for a reasonable cost.
Interpreting the meter's readings requires some context. Different materials have different baseline moisture levels. A reading that is 5-10% higher than surrounding dry areas suggests a problem. Remember, the meter detects moisture in the wall behind the paper, too. This tool helps you map the extent of the damage before any material is removed.
What to Do After Detection
Once you find wet wallpaper, act quickly to prevent mold and structural damage. Start by stopping the water source if you can, such as shutting off the supply to a leaking fixture. Move furniture away from the affected wall and place towels on the floor to catch drips. Ventilate the area with fans, but avoid using heat, which can warp materials.
Contact local water damage pros for a thorough inspection. They have the tools to assess the damage inside the wall cavity. The wallpaper and possibly the drywall behind it will likely need removal for proper drying. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Prompt professional drying helps protect your home's structure and air quality.
- Stop the water source immediately, like shutting off a valve.
- Move furniture and belongings away from the damp wall.
- Use fans to increase air circulation in the room.
- Avoid using heat guns or hair dryers on the wallpaper.
- Document the damage with photos for an insurance claim.
- Schedule a professional inspection to assess the wall cavity.
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Call Now (208) 537-2633Frequently asked questions
Can wet wallpaper be saved, or does it need removal?
Wet wallpaper usually needs removal. The adhesive breaks down, and moisture trapped behind it promotes mold growth on the wall. Saving it is rarely effective or hygienic. The underlying wall must be completely dried, which requires pulling the paper off.
Is water behind wallpaper a health concern?
Yes, it can be. Damp walls behind wallpaper are a prime environment for mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. Mold spores can affect indoor air quality. If you smell mold or see it, consult a mold professional for assessment and safe remediation.
Will my home insurance cover this repair?
Coverage depends on the source of the water. Sudden, accidental events like a pipe burst are often covered. Damage from long-term neglect or lack of maintenance typically is not. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy and document the damage.