There are certain risks and emergencies that come with being a homeowner. You can be breaking ground on a home improvement project one day and calling your insurance company for a collapsed roof the next. Preparation is key in every circumstance and the sentiment remains in relation to water damage.
Whether it’s flooding, shopping, or soaking through, water can be quite the menace when it isn’t contained. Let’s take a look at a few of the ways that water can cause damage to your home so you can be prepared for these unsavory events.
Table of Contents
Foundation Damage
When water accumulates around the foundation of a home, it can cause major damage to the structure by eroding or weakening the foundation. This can lead to cracking, shifting, and even collapse of the foundation. In addition to this, water can also cause soil erosion and flooding, which can further damage the foundation.
To prevent damage, it is important to ensure proper drainage around the foundation of the home. This includes maintaining gutters, downspouts, and other drainage systems to ensure that water is channeled away from the foundation. It is also important to check for signs of water damage on a regular basis. If you spot something, it is important to investigate the source of the water and address the issue as soon as possible.
Cracked Walls
Water damage can cause walls to crack for a variety of reasons. Excess moisture can weaken the materials used to construct the walls, leading to cracks in the structure. If there’s leaking or pooling in a specific area, the pressure from the water can cause the walls to crack. This is especially true for walls that are not well-insulated or have been exposed to moisture for an extended period of time.
You can avoid issues like this by ensuring that the walls are properly insulated and sealed. This will help to keep moisture out and prevent it from weakening the walls. Surveying for damage is key as well.
Destroyed Interior And Appliances
Flooding can cause water to seep into the walls, flooring, and furniture, leading to warped and damaged materials. Appliances, such as washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens, can become damaged when exposed to water.
Smart-home features, such as thermostats, smoke detectors, home theatre systems, stationery electronics like desktop computers and televisions, and security systems, can become short-circuited or destroyed by flooding. Home elevators and other accessibility features like ramps and lifts can become damaged when exposed to water, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Water Damaged Floors
Hardwood floors are particularly susceptible to flooding and water damage, as the material is highly absorbent and can swell, buckle, or warp over time. Carpeted floors, too, can become waterlogged, and the padding underneath can become soaked and stained, leading to a musty smell and an unhealthy environment. Tiled floors can become warped and discolored if water is allowed to seep up through the grout lines.
In order to protect your floors from water damage, it is important to ensure that any leaks or flooding are addressed quickly and professionally. If you have hardwood floors, you should take extra care to keep the area dry, as even small amounts of water can cause extensive damage. If you have carpeted floors, consider purchasing a water-resistant underlayment to provide an additional layer of protection against water damage. Tiled floors should be cleaned and sealed regularly to prevent cracking and wear.
Mold And Mildew Buildup
Mold and mildew are types of fungi that can grow in damp and moist environments. They are often caused by water damage or high humidity and can cause a variety of health issues. Mold spores can be found in the air and can be spread by air currents. When these spores come into contact with water, they can grow and spread quickly, leading to mold and mildew buildup.
Mold and mildew thrive in moist, warm, and dark environments. They can grow on almost any surface, including wood, drywall, insulation, and other materials. When water damage occurs, it can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. In addition, moisture can build up in walls and ceilings, leading to mold and mildew growth.
Buildup can cause serious health issues when left untreated. The spores can cause respiratory issues like heavy coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. They can also cause severe skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Water can cause a lot of damage to your home. Proper inspection and maintenance are essential for protecting your belongings and preventing costly repairs or replacements. Proper inspection and maintenance by a professional water damage restoration company are essential for protecting your belongings and preventing costly repairs or replacements.
