DIY vs Pro: Fixing Water Damage in the Closet

Start by checking how far the water went. A small leak from a pipe or a spilled container that dried quickly may only need cleaning and a fresh coat of paint. Look for discoloration, peeling paint, or a musty smell.

Press gently on the drywall and the floor. If anything feels soft, spongy, or crumbles, the water has soaked deeper than the surface. That kind of damage can hide rot or mold behind the wall, so a DIY fix may not be enough.

If the damage is more than cosmetic, the pros are the safer choice. They can dry out wall cavities, treat mold, and replace damaged drywall or insulation. Trying to fix it yourself may leave moisture trapped, which can lead to bigger issues later.

In a closet, hidden damage can go unnoticed for weeks. A musty smell or a soft spot under your foot is a sign that water has soaked into the structure. The pros have moisture meters and drying equipment to handle this properly.

• Soft or sagging drywall or ceiling
• Visible mold or a strong musty odor
• Water came from a roof leak or a burst pipe
• The floor feels spongy or warped
• You cannot find the source of the water
• The damage is larger than a few square feet

Check the closet ceiling and walls for stains after heavy rain. In Frisco, a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and spring hail and thunderstorms means storms can bring sudden water intrusion. Look for drips or damp spots after a downpour.

Keep the area dry by using a dehumidifier in humid months. Store items off the floor in plastic bins, and make sure any pipes running through the closet are insulated. If you spot a leak early, you can fix it before it becomes a bigger problem.