Water damage emergencies don’t adhere to any schedule or take holidays. When they happen, it’s important to understand the actions to take and which mistakes to avoid. Don’t neglect the situation – quick action can prevent further damages and expenses!
How Can Water Damages Happen?
Water damage occurs when water invades an area it shouldn’t be present in. Water damage can happen from many different sources, including:
- Broken or leaking plumbing pipes.
- Weather incidents such as heavy rain, hurricanes, and flooding.
- Malfunctioning appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers.
- Clogged drains or blocked pipes, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Sewage backups can be especially harmful, introducing pathogens and bacteria to the home.
Identifying the cause and source of water damage is paramount in 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:
- Peeling or bubbling paint or wallpaper can indicate that water has seeped through, causing it to separate from the wall.
- Water stains, appearing as discolored patches or rings, on walls, ceilings, or floors.
- Warped, sagging, or buckling floors.
- 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.
Dangers of Ignoring Water Damage
The extent of harm 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 1 water damage can also escalate into Category 2 if not addressed promptly.
- 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 small issues can allow the damages to accumulate and worsen. As water sits, it can seep into floors, walls, and ceilings, weakening structural integrity.
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. Time is of the essence in 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 damage. As wood becomes waterlogged, it swells and eventually cracks. Quick removal greatly increases the likelihood of a successful restoration to its original condition.
Long Term 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 health living environment for yourself and your family.
