If you have water damage, it is crucial to understand what is happening so that you can take the necessary action. This can help ensure your property is safe for you and your family.
It can also help you avoid costly repairs and structural damage in the future. Keep reading to learn more about how water can impact your home or business and what you can do to prevent it.
Water damage is a health hazard
Water damage can be caused by various sources, such as leaking pipes, roof leaks, groundwater seepage, broken appliances, and clogged toilets. Whatever the source, water damage is usually a significant problem and can be highly hazardous to your health.
As water moves around the home, it soaks up everything it touches and contaminates your belongings with chemical pollutants, toxic waste, sewage, bacteria, and more. Once these contaminants are in your home, they can cling to the walls and floors and lead to serious health issues if left untreated.
One of the most important reasons why water damage is a health hazard is because it can destroy your property and possessions. This is especially true when caused by a flood, a leaky pipe, or a roof damaged by a storm.
Water damage can lead to mold
Any leak that isn’t fixed quickly can lead to mold growth. This includes a plumbing leak, a roof leak, or water used to extinguish a fire.
Mold can grow on almost any surface. It can also spread from one area to another.
Typically, it can be identified by a musty smell that is often described as “earthy.” The color may be yellow, grayish-black, or a combination of colors.
Drying out the affected area is the best way to prevent mold growth after a water leak. It is also vital to minimize humidity levels in the home.
Water damage can lead to structural damage
According to water damage restoration Kansas City experts, water damage is a common problem that affects many people. Water can lead to significant structural damage in your home or business, whether it comes from rain, a leaky pipe, or a broken toilet.
Fortunately, water damage can be prevented by knowing what to look for and how to respond when it occurs. It can also save you a lot of money and stress in the long run.
Structural damage is caused when water penetrates a material and begins to break down the structure, causing things like wood rot or weakness in foundational support. It can also cause the drywall to warp or swell and the furniture to sag, becoming dangerous over time.
Aside from structural damage, water can also damage personal belongings, affecting things such as books, videos, and valuable documents. It can even erode electrical systems, so acting as soon as you suspect water damage is crucial.
Water damage can lead to odors
Water damage is one of the most common problems homeowners, businesses, and renters face. It can be caused by several things, such as leaky faucets, broken pipes, and rain, but it is most often the result of neglect or an accident. When it happens, the best way to handle the situation is by hiring a professional specializing in water damage restoration in Kansas City. The right team will keep your building dry while ensuring your home or business is restored to pre-loss condition.
While a flooded basement is the most common complaint among homeowners, a poorly maintained HVAC system can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This is bad for your health and can also be a pain to deal with. The most important thing to remember is that water should be removed as soon as possible, so you can return to enjoying life.