28 Mar Learn About Some Of The Worst Impacts Of Water Damage
Water damage can seem minor if you think it’s not too serious. You might think: “It’s just a water problem” or “It won’t take too much effort to clean it up.” It’s not true. water can actually cause significant damage to your house that could prove irreversible.
Water is a universal liquid, and this is why it can cause so much damage to your house. Water is a universal solvent, which means it can dissolve many more substances than any other liquid.
High levels of water could cause structural damage and lead to integrity issues. There are many other problems you need to address when dealing with water damage.
Structural Damage
Water may and will cause damage to everything it comes across, including the structure of your home. There is no limit to the amount of damage that will occur and what needs to be replaced or restored. The extent of damage depends on how much water is present in the surrounding areas. Drywall can deteriorate and crumble. The subfloor can also warp and split.
Water can damage concrete and the foundation of your home. The entire structure of your home can be damaged if water seeps through cracks in the foundation. As a result, property value will decrease dramatically the more damage is done. All items must be replaced, repaired or rebuilt to restore the property’s original value.
Electrical Injury
It is dangerous to mix electricity and water. Electricity lines can be damaged by flooding. In the event of flooding, electricity must not be turned off. Wiring will have to be repaired before it can again be used.
Most electrical water damage occurs to kitchen appliances and washing machines. Even a few inches water in the crawlspace or basement could cause damage that is beyond repair.
Mold Growth
Mold is a fungus and thrives on moisture. No matter how much water there is, mold will eventually grow no matter what. Unfortunately, mold can cause severe damage to the immune system and body.
People who are regularly exposed to mold will experience health problems, such as allergic reactions, asthma attacks, eye/skin/throat irritation, and lunch problems. Exposure to mold for longer periods of time will increase sensitivity, leading to more severe allergic reactions.
Mold can also impact the soil it grows in. Mold will cause the surface where it grows to become weaker as it is eaten away. Mold can grow anywhere there is moisture and the right temperature. It can also be grown on nonporous materials, such as concrete or brick.
It is imperative to act immediately if water damage has occurred in your home. You can minimize the damage to your home if it is dealt with quickly.