How Water Exposure Can Lead To Serious Secondary Concerns

3/10/2021 (Permalink)

Water damaged bedroom in Puyallup, WA.

Homeowners should be aware of the numerous complications of water exposure. When a pipe breaks or a toilet overflows, residents have more to deal with than excess dampness and a plumber's bill. The home's structure is at risk as the fluid quickly seeps into the porous materials. Concerns such as black mold and wood rot can develop, leading to significant home overhauls and cleanup procedures; therefore, homeowners in Puyallup, WA should understand the possible underlying issues and how to avoid them.

Why Is Water Buildup Concerning?

Flooded rooms, because of the additional fluid, have high humidity. The longer the moisture sits, the more dampness enters the air and belongings. Permeable objects such as cushions, curtains and carpet absorb the liquid quickly. These secondary matters, often invisible to the eye, add to the repair cost and timeline.

How Does an Increase in Moisture Hurt a Home?

Air drying does not resolve the difficulties. That tactic can permit any or all of the following dilemmas:

• Wood deterioration
• Foundation cracks
• Black mold growth
• Mildew stains
• Musty odor
• Electrical and appliance damage
• Metal corrosion

Owners may think that it takes weeks for deterioration to start; however, that is false. Within 24 to 48 hours, fungal spores activate with water exposure. In no time at all, a house could become contaminated with microbes feasting on the organic matter and fluid.

How Does a Homeowner Reduce Further Harm?

Shut off the water supply, and have a water restoration company address the primary issue. With that completed, curtail secondary damage development by focusing on moisture reduction efforts. Tear out soaked carpeting, and cut out drywall, extracting at least a few feet above the waterline. Minimize humidity by running industrial dehumidifiers around the clock, checking the room often with a moisture reader tool.

Fixing the dampness source is pivotal, yet that action isn't the end of the cleanup. Homeowners should concentrate on thorough moisture removal to avoid secondary headaches such as black mold.