Last Updated on October 10, 2021 by
In the US, the most common natural hazard is flooding.
The damage from flooding costs tens of billions of dollars every year. But you don’t have to experience a flood to have excessive water damage in your home.
Whether you’ve sprung a small leak or an entire pipe has burst, you need to take care of it right away. The water works won’t just be pouring from your eyes when you get a bill for water damage that you let go on too long.
Not sure what kind of damage water can do? Keep reading to learn all the risks.
Table of Contents
Mold
Mold starts to grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours. It grows and spreads on almost any surface, including floors, ceiling, wallpaper, insulation, and carpet. As it does so, it causes damage not only to personal belongings but also to the structure of a building.
Even more concerning than that damage is the potential damage to your health. Mold exposure causes everything from respiratory problems to skin irritation. It can even impact your nervous system and cause aches and pains.
Structural Damage
A roofing leak or a leaking pipe can lead to water collecting behind your walls and in your ceilings. As water collects in these places, it makes them weaker.
If water damage in ceilings, floors, and walls is left unchecked, it causes significant house damage. As these important components of the home break down, it weakens the structural integrity of the building and poses significant danger.
Electrical Systems
Electricity and water don’t mix. In fact, electrocution is especially lethal when there’s water around.
In addition to that danger, one of the worst types of damage water can do is to your home’s electrical system. When internal components and wiring are exposed to moisture, they become corroded. Eventually, that can lead to the failure of your electrical system, or parts of it.
Avoid the Water Works: When to Seek Help
There’s no such thing as a “harmless” leak. A small leak can quickly turn into a larger problem.
Within just the first 24 hours, water damage can soak personal belongings and furniture, cause mold in carpets and walls, and even lead to issues with structural integrity. And if you leave water damage too long, your insurance may not help you cover the cost.
You shouldn’t let any kind of water damage go unchecked by the professionals. From getting water out of your crawl space to checking floors and ceilings for any hidden problems, they know what to look for to prevent any future damage.
Your Home Improvement Fix
There’s no need for water works when your house is damaged by water. The faster you attend to the damage, the easier the cleanup will be. But be sure to contract professionals to look for damage you may not notice.
Need more of a home improvement fix? Be sure to check out our Home Improvement section.
Read more: Buying a House? Don’t Forget to Check These 12 Things off The List
