Any type of water damage can be very dreadful to a homeowner.  Water, though it is essential to humans, can have severe or great damage to your property, making you spend hundreds and thousands of dollars in repair costs. Water can be destructive to your furniture, upholstery, appliances, electronics, and plumbing equipment. Moreover, water damage can pose dangers to the health conditions of the occupants due to the risk of mold growth. Thus, we can see the serious effects of water damage on property and people. 

Water damage is something that should not be taken lightly and should never be ignored. Time is efficient in dealing with water damage. The faster you act, the higher the tendency of preventing further damage. The longer the water sits in your house, the higher the risk of spending more for the repair. 

Common Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can show up in many different ways. Understanding the causes of water damage, firsthand, can help you prevent more serious effects of water damage. Water damage can occur through;

• Leaky dishwashers 
• Overflowing water from a washing machine
• Broken pipes
• Floodwaters
• Clogged or overflowing toilets
• Roof Leaks
• Foundation cracks
• Malfunctioned sump pump
• Poor exterior siding
• Faulty gutters

Above are just some of the common causes of water damage. Remember that water damage happens where there is water. 

Effects of Water Damage

Effects of  Water Damage No. 1: It Drives Down The Resale Value Of Your Property

Water damage can affect the entire resale value of your home. A history of water damage, even if you have done everything to resolve it, can have a lingering effect on your property. This happens when water damage was not taken care of right after its occurrence. That is why it is important that you act fast when any signs of water damage occur. This can help you maintain the value of your home.

Effects of  Water Damage No. 2: Rampant Mold and Fungal Growth

Mold begins to grow in just one or two days after water damage. This is one of the biggest, and probably the most dangerous, effects of water damage. These types of fungi colonize any areas that have a high level of humidity or moisture and produce spores that can bring hazards to your health. When water starts seeping into the crooks and crevices of your home, they will start to colonize their breeding ground. Their growth becomes unstoppable when they come in contact with water. 

Removing mold can be time-consuming and dangerous. As mentioned above, mold produces spores that can harm the health conditions of those who get exposed to it. In most cases, DIYing can trigger mold growth and could even lead to a severe situation. On the other hand, hiring a mold specialist can be costly. But, having a mold specialist in getting rid of mold is more effective than DIYing. 

Effects of  Water Damage No. 3: Water Can Cause Structural Damage

Aside from the hazards of mold growth caused by water damage, a water leak can also create hazards to the structure of your home. Structural damage refers to the damage that compromises the integrity of your home. The foundation of your home consisting of drywall is porous and can naturally absorb water. When water seeps into these materials, they begin to warp and swell. 

Structural damage can be just as expensive, or more, than the medical costs that mold bring upon to humans. Affected areas might need to be replaced. Hiring skilled professionals can be the best option when dealing with structural water damage.

5 Things To Do When Water Damage Occurs on Your Property

Knowing what to do when water damage occurs is crucial in mitigating the damage and minimizing its effects on the occupants. Here they are;

Call in the experts. Water damage is a serious problem and can even be more complicated when mold starts to grow. The effects of water damage can have a huge impact on the value of your property, your finances, and your health conditions. Since a lot would be involved in this problem, hiring professionals could be your best resort.

Contact your insurance company. Not all types of water damage are covered by the usual homeowner’s insurance. That is why contacting them will enlighten your knowledge of your policy. Make sure to document and keep proof of the damage. That includes the effects of water damage to your furniture and personal belongings. 

Turn off your main water supply valve. Whether it is a leak from a broken pipe or rainwater that gets into your home through a leaky roof, you have to stop the water flow, first and foremost. 

Keep your important valuables in a safe area. Gather all your important belongings such as documents, money, and jewelry and put them in areas where water cannot possibly reach.

Evacuate your home if the situation arises. In some cases, such as flooding, water damage can be very harmful. Water from flooding contains contaminants that can be harmful to those who get exposed to it.  

Get Help from Water Damage Experts and Professionals

If you are faced with any type of water damage, it is best to get help from professionals and experts. They know how stressful the situation is and will handle all sorts of damage in the most effective way.

Call the local water damage restoration company, now!