Leaky roofs, burst pipes, backed-up sewage systems and similar incidents can cause extensive water damage in a home. As water can quickly saturate and ruin materials, it is important to address water damage quickly to prevent further problems like water rot and mold growth. To minimize this damage, learn the true costs of home water damage and why you need to speak with an experienced water damage restoration specialist.
What Is Water Damage?
Water damage refers to the possible losses that can occur due to water intrusion. As water attacks various materials in the home, destructive processes like the rusting of steel, rotting of wood and the delamination of materials can occur. When water damage occurs, time is of the essence.
The Long-Term Effects of Home Water Damage
If water damage is not properly removed, the long-term effects can be devastating on a home. Over time, water damage can lead to poor indoor air quality, unpleasant odors, toxic mold growth and a variety of other problems that contribute to unsanitary living conditions. Excess water in the home can also soak into building materials which can ultimately affect the structural stability of the home.
Here is a look at some more long-term effects of water damage in the home.
Health Hazards
There are numerous health risks that can occur when a home suffers water damage. When there is standing water, whether rain water or water from another source, microorganisms can start to develop and gradually multiply. This means that standing water becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. When these contaminants are contained indoors, they can reach high concentrations that can be harmful if inhaled. Those who reside in the home can experience illnesses like pneumonia and other respiratory ailments.
Warped Woods
From floors and cabinets to furniture and walls, wood in the home can really suffer from the effects of water damage. Wood tends to deform when exposed to humidity or moisture, often resulting in warping or cupping. Wood warping can manifest in a number of ways that affect both the appearance and function of the wood. Moisture causes wood to expand, which in turn can cause it to rise up along the edges or center of the boards. If the warping is minor, it may shrink back down once the water source is removed. However, more serious warping may require the replacement of the wood.
Erosion of Drywall
While drywall is made to be fairly resistant, it cannot usually withstand serious water damage. When drywall becomes wet, it has a tendency to stain, budge and sag. In some cases, the material will actually collapse. When this happens, the most effective solution is to remove the damaged drywall and replace it with new drywall. Sometimes drywall damage is not as obvious. Mold can begin growing inside the wall cavities within 24 hours of water intrusion. In addition, wet drywall can quickly lose its structural integrity.
Development of Mold
Mold can affect a home anytime of the year, but most often it grows and spreads in warm, humid environments. Mold and mildew thrive in wet areas, like those affected by water damage. At first, you might not notice the actual mold, but you may have warning signs, such as a musty odor. Over time, mold can begin to grow on surfaces like walls and ceilings. When this occurs, it can be difficult to eliminate the mold.
Bad Odor
It is common to experience a musty odor in your home after having water damage, especially if you prolong water damage restoration. This musty smell is usually a sign that mold is starting to grow indoors. Mold can grow nearly anywhere there is a food source, water and oxygen. Some of the most common places you may discover mold is in a carpet, on upholstery, or within drywall.
Benefits of Water Damage Restoration
When water damage occurs, it is important to act fast to help minimize the damage to your home. Ideally, you want to call a water damage restoration company soon after the damage has occurred to start the cleanup and restoration process. A professional water damage restoration technician will have the knowledge, tools and experience needed to safely remove the damaged materials and restore the home back to its original state.
Reach Out to the Water Damage Restoration Specialists
If you have recently experienced water damage in your home, call in the water damage restoration specialists to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Kingsley, LLC, is a leading damage and mold remediation company that provides the West Columbia, SC area with comprehensive water damage restoration services. We also offer emergency water mitigation services that are available round-the-clock. Call us today to learn more about our water damage restoration services or to schedule an appointment.