22 Oct Learn How Mold And Structural Damage Can Cause Water Damage Repairs
Timing is crucial when it comes to water damages repair. We will be focusing on two main damages that can occur from prolonged water exposure to your home: mold growth, and structural damage.
Water Damage Repair in Long Beach, CA
Mold Growth
After water damage, mold will start growing within 48 hours. Mold needs food, moisture, and time to grow. There are many food sources for mold in our homes (drywall, wood, sheetrock, etc.). All it takes to get mold started growing is a small water leak. Mold can reproduce through microscopic spores, which spread quickly through the air and affect surfaces and materials throughout your home.
After your home is damaged by water, the best way to stop mold growth is to have it repaired immediately. Mold in homes can pose a serious health risk, particularly to the elderly, chronically ill, people with compromised immune systems, as well as infants.
Mold spores are able to travel through the air and cause many respiratory problems, including: headaches, sneezing and coughing. Mold can have serious side effects on your health so it is important to not ignore or delay. To prevent mold damage, water damage must be repaired as soon as possible.
Structural damage
The home’s basic structure is made up of floors, walls, ceilings and foundations. The structural integrity of these materials is compromised when they are exposed to moisture and water for extended periods. All porous materials, including wood, sheetrock insulation, carpet, drywall cement and padding, are porous.
Porous materials will absorb moisture from water if they are exposed to it. Absorption can lead to expansion, warping and weakening as well as rotting and deterioration. The integrity of your home’s structural components is at risk if they are damaged by water.
These materials will suffer more damage if the water is not removed and dried quickly. It is important to get rid of water as soon as possible to preserve structural integrity and to prevent any damage.
After water damage, water extraction and structural drying are the best options. If you fail to act quickly after water damage, your repair costs will go up exponentially.