Water damage is incredibly common. Whether it comes from a burst pipe or a flash flood, it can cause major damage. If you would like to know more about water damage and restoration to better protect your home and investment, keep reading.
What Are the Common Causes of Water Damage?
Water damage can come from many sources. A leaking pipe can cause hidden slow damage, and a burst pipe may cause hidden sudden damage. You can also experience water damage inside the home during a storm. If the storm damages the roof or a window, it could lead to water inside the house.
In many cases, however, water damage is caused by flood water. It can be caused by flash floods or overrunning rivers and other bodies of water. Sometimes, during heavy rainfalls, groundwater can rise high enough to flood the basement/crawlspace. Other causes of water damage may include:
- A leak in the roof
- Damaged windows/doors
- Improperly sealed pipes/vents
What Are the Signs of Water Damage?
Luckily, you don't need to see water to know you have water damage. First, you may notice musty odors, especially if mold starts to grow. The mold may appear as small specks, but it can quickly grow into large black or green blotches.
Water damage also causes flaking and cracking paint. You may also notice moisture on the walls or ceiling. In extreme cases, the entire drywall may become soft, and you may even hear running or leaking water.
What Are the Complications of Water Damage?
Water damage causes many issues, including making your home look dirty and poorly maintained. More importantly, however, water damage can affect wood, including the wood that supports your home. Water and water damage also attract pests, including pests that burrow into wood. Not only does this lead to more damage, but pests can spread disease.
Finally, water can cause mold to sprout. Mold makes your home look filthy, but it can also affect your health. Some people may have allergies to molds, leading to sneezing, itching, etc. While uncommon, toxic black mold may form.
After a flood, it's important to dry out the house and make repairs as soon as possible. If your home has water damage, it's time to restore it. By replacing the damaged pieces, you can drastically reduce the risk of future complications and restore the value of your home. If you would like to know more, contact water damage restoration professionals in your area today.