Water damage disasters don’t take holidays or follow standard business hours. When they happen, it’s important to understand the correct actions to take and mistakes to avoid. Neglecting the situation can make matters worse. Quick action can prevent worsening damages and increased expenses!
Dangers of Ignoring Water Damage
The extent of damage is determined by the water category and the length of time that has passed. The category of water indicates its potential health hazards. There are 3 categories:
- Category 1 is “clean water”. This means that the source of water is sanitary and does not pose health risks. Common examples include faucet leaks, supply line breaks, and melting snow or ice.
- Category 2 may contain levels of contaminants that can cause illness if ingested. This type of water is known as “grey water,” and can include dishwasher leaks and washing machine overflows.
- Category 3 water is the most hazardous to handle. Known as “black water,” it can cause illness or even death. Sewage backups, toilet overflows with fecal matter, and flooding from rivers or streams are common examples.
Water damage emergencies can be stressful, but these problems don’t go away on their own. Ignoring a small issue allows the damage to accumulate and worsen. As water sits, it can seep into floors, walls, and ceilings. This can weaken structural integrity and require extensive reconstruction and rebuilding efforts.
Evaporated water can travel throughout the interior environment, trapping vapor in areas like crawlspaces, closets, and inside of walls. These moist environments create the perfect conditions for mold to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Exposure to the skin and lungs poses hazards to your health, including respiratory issues, rashes, and allergic reactions.
Personal items, such as furniture, electronics, and documents, can be ruined by water damage. Fast action is crucial when it comes to salvaging these items. Porous materials such as wood and fabrics can absorb and retain water. The longer that these items are exposed to water, the greater the resulting damage. As wood becomes waterlogged, it swells and eventually cracks. Quick removal greatly increases the success rate of restoring an item or home to its original condition.
How Can Water Damage Happen?
Water damage occurs when water infiltrates an area it shouldn’t be in. Water damage can happen from many different sources, including:
- Broken or leaking plumbing pipes.
- Malfunctioning appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers.
- Clogged drains or blocked pipes, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Weather incidents such as heavy rain, hurricanes, and flooding.
- Sewage backups can be especially harmful, as they introduce pathogens and bacteria to the home.
Identifying and repairing the cause and source of water damage is key to preventing further damage and future incidents. The signs of water damage depend on the extent of damages and source of offending water. Some common signs to look for include:
- Water stains, appearing as discolored patches or rings, on walls, ceilings, or floors.
- Warped, sagging, or buckling floors.
- Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper can indicate that water has seeped through, causing it to separate from the wall.
Musty odors, alerting to the presence of mold or mildew growth.
Ignoring these signs can be a slippery slope leading to more extensive and costly repairs in the future. Contacting a professional to be on site as soon as you notice water damage can significantly reduce the cost of restoration and repair.
Consequences of Delayed Action
Untreated water damage worsens over time. These can result in the need for expensive repairs, lowering a property’s value significantly. Warped ceilings, walls, and flooring send a warning signal to potential buyers that more extensive damage exists under the surface. Foundational erosion, sagging beams, and rotten wood are costly structural repairs that substantially devalue a home.
Ignoring small damages can escalate the repairs cost considerably down the line. Addressing necessary repairs promptly can help to safeguard your property value and ensure a safe and healthy living environment for yourself and your family.
