Burst Pipes, Appliance Leaks, and Storm Flooding: Common Causes of Water Damage in Winston-Salem

Water damage doesn’t always come from dramatic floods. In fact, most water damage we see in Winston-Salem homes starts quietly — behind walls, under floors, or inside ceilings.

Understanding the most common causes helps homeowners act faster and reduce damage.

1. Burst or Frozen Pipes

Cold snaps in North Carolina catch many homeowners off guard. Pipes in crawl spaces, exterior walls, or poorly insulated areas can freeze and burst overnight.

Signs include:

• Sudden drops in water pressure

• Stains on ceilings or walls

• Water pooling near baseboards

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2. Appliance Supply Line Failures

Washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators are among the top causes of interior flooding.

Rubber supply lines degrade over time and often fail without warning.

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3. Water Heater Leaks

Water heaters often leak from the bottom, soaking subfloors before homeowners notice.

By the time water appears, damage has often already spread.

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4. Storm-Related Intrusion

Heavy rains can expose:

• Roof failures

• Window leaks

• Improper flashing

• Saturated crawl spaces

Storm water entering the home is especially dangerous because it often leads to hidden moisture.

👉 Related read: Water Damage in Winston-Salem Homes: What to Do in the First 24 Hours

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Why Hidden Damage Is the Real Threat

Even when water appears minimal, moisture spreads quickly through framing, insulation, and subfloors.

That’s why professional moisture detection is critical after any water event.