As homeowners, we invest a lot of time and money into making our homes look and feel the way we want. However, we sometimes overlook the day-to-day maintenance until it festers and creates an avoidable problem. When left alone, presumably insignificant water leaks can result in costly water damage. Aside from being detrimental to your home and your health, when neglected, water damage can become very expensive.
Here are five dangers of water damage:
1. Mold Growth
One of the most detrimental outcomes of water damage is microbial growth. The dampness caused by water damage creates the perfect conditions for microbial growth. It takes as few as 24 to 48 hours for mold growth to take place. Unfortunately, mold doesn’t remain confined to areas affected by water damage because it spreads by sending out spores into the air that can spread all over the home. Getting rid of mold is usually beyond the expertise of a homeowner and should be taken care of by a restoration professional. Exposure to mold spores can result in a variety of health issues including respiratory issues, skin allergies and headaches.
2. Wood Rot
When neglected, water damage may lead to wood rot. Prolonged exposure to moisture weakens structural components like studs, joists, and sub-flooring. It also destroys big-ticket items like doors, windows, and hardwood flooring. If left unchecked, moist wood paves the way for wood-eating pests. As a result, the structure of your house tends to weaken, thus resulting in costly repairs.
3. Bacteria
Depending upon its source, water damage can also open your home up to parasites, bacteria and germs. This is especially true with a sewage backup. If sewage isn’t cleaned up properly, you and your family members may be exposed to serious health issues such as hepatitis.
4. Damage to the Contents
Up till now, we have discussed how water damage causes wood rot, results in mold growth, and affects your health. Unfortunately, the danger doesn’t just end there. Untreated water damage spreads throughout your house affecting the contents. Your curtains, carpets and your upholstered furniture cannot sustain water damage, and if left exposed, might need to be replaced altogether.
5. Chemicals
When the source of water is on the outside of the home, it may allow for hazardous chemicals to travel into the home. If leaking water encounters stored chemicals, it can increase the risk for dangerous chemical exposure and would need to be cleaned by a professional.
It’s important to combat water damage as soon as it is noticed in order to minimize the overall cost. For all of your water mitigation needs call STOP Restoration at (336) 203-0739.
