The fear of water damage often hounds property owners. However, it is almost impossible to escape water damage, since we have no control over nature. The damage that water can do may be observed in every part of the home, from the carpets to the appliances, and may costs thousands to fix. So, what type of water damage can you expect to see?
The presence of mold is the most common effect, requiring professional mold removal and mold remediation services. Mold is a kind of fungus that helps things decompose, but it can also cause tremendous destruction to properties. It also grows very quickly and can appear within just 24 to 48 hours after water has entered the property. Mold grows anywhere, from your broom cabinet to the cushions on your couch. It affects the structural integrity of a property and can even affect the health of people living there. It is not possible, therefore, to just allow mold to be there for long. Another very dangerous problem that can emerge is black water contamination. This happens when water from unsanitary sources, that may include animal and human waste, get into the property. This water, which includes river and lake water, can cause significant illness. The only way to recover from black water contamination, if possible at all, is to replace practially all the structural elements and all the contents of the home. Furthermore, residents of the property must receive vaccinations because of possible contamination with tetanus bacteria and other diseases. Black water is often found in basement water flooding. Gas and electricity lines are also often damaged by water. It is important that all appliances and other equipment are turned off and that all wires and pipes are checked. Indeed, once a property is water damaged, it will not have electricity or gas for some time. Even the smallest bit of basement water can cause this problem and it usually means having to replace electrical and gas appliances, costing thousands of dollars.
Lastly, there are health considerations to make as well. In fact, it is the health problem that make it so necessary to phone a restoration expert as soon as possible. Mold is common in water damaged properties and affects the airways, causing people to suffer from asthma and allergy attacks. If some of the home residents are very young, very old, or ill, this could potentially cost them their life. Indeed, even people in good health are at risk. Black water contamination is, as stated, the most significant danger to health and should be avoided at all times. Last but not least, it is important not to forget about the emotional effect of being affected by water damage. Often, homes end up condemned, meaning people will literally lose the things that they have loved.