Water damage is something property owners worry about. Unfortunately, water damage is quite common, as it can be caused by many natural events. When there is water damage, this affects everything, from the basement to the attic, and restoration costs frequently run into the thousands. So, what type of water damage can you expect to see?
The most common problem of water damage is mold growth, requiring mold remediation and mold removal services. Mold is part of nature's way to help in the process of decomposition, but it is also highly destructive to property. Mold grows very quickly, appearing within one to two days after exposure to water. Mold can affect everything from your drywall to your curtains. It will eat away at your property's structure and can also cause health problems. Hence, it must be addressed immediately. Water damage can also lead to the very serious situation of black water contamination. Black water is the most dangerous category of water because it usually includes human and animal waste. River and lake water is classed as black water, and contamination can cause huge health problems. 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. Basement water is a common source of black water. Water damage also affects gas and electricity lines. All electric and gas lines and appliances must be turned off and the wiring and piping must be checked. Water damaged properties have to be completely switched off for some time after sustaining the damage. 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.
Last but not least, water damage affects health. It is vital that a restoration expert be brought in straight away to minimize potential damage to health. Mold spores, for instance, enter the airways and cause people to suffer from asthma attacks and/or allergy attacks. This can be potentially fatal to the very young, the very old, and the otherwise ill or infirm. Furthermore, even healthy people are at greater risk of developing a respiratory illness. As stated, black water contamination is a very real danger. Lastly, the emotional problems caused by the stress of experiencing water damage must also be taken into account. When homeowners lose those things that they love, the psychological impact is tremendous.