Water damage can happen to anyone, anywhere. Whether it’s a burst pipe, leaky roof, or flooding from heavy rain, water can wreak havoc on your home or property in a matter of minutes. While the immediate effects of water damage are obvious, there are also hidden dangers that may not be as apparent if you haven’t professionally repaired your water damage.
What Is Water Damage, and When Does it Happen?
“Water damage” refers to any damage caused by water leaking into a building or other structure. This can be a result of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or floods, or more commonly, from issues within the building itself. These inside causes include:
- Plumbing leaks
- Appliance malfunctions (washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators)
- Roof leaks
- Broken pipes
- Foundation cracks
Water damage can happen anytime, but it’s most common during heavy rainfall or after a natural disaster. It’s important to regularly check your home for any potential issues and repair water damage immediately to prevent health hazards.
5 Secret Dangers of Water Damage You Need to Know
Repairing water damage can be tedious without professional help, and improper repair or ignoring the situation can risk your health and the integrity of your property.
1. Infestations
One of the biggest hidden dangers of water damage is the potential for mold growth. Mold thrives in damp, dark environments and can quickly spread throughout the walls and floors of your home. This can cause serious damage to your property.
Plus, water damage can attract pests attracted to damp wood, like termites and carpenter ants. These pests cause even more damage to your home and can be difficult to remove once the house is infested.
2. Electrical Fire Damage
While it may seem counterintuitive, water damage can actually put you at risk for fire damage. If water seeps into electrical outlets or wiring, it can cause a short circuit and potentially start a fire. Turn off your electricity immediately if you experience any water damage.
3. Electric Hazard Contact Risks
Electrocution is another hidden danger of water damage. If you come into contact with water from a leak or flood and there’s an electrical current running through it, you’re at risk of severe injury or worse. Always exercise caution around standing water in your home.
4. Structural Integrity
Water damage can also compromise the structural integrity of your home. Excess water can seep into walls and floors, weakening your foundation over time. This can lead to structural issues and potential collapse if you haven’t repaired your water damage.
5. Health Risks
Water damage also leads to other health hazards besides mold. Standing water can become a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of illness in your household. Additionally, if the water contains sewage or other contaminants, it can pose even greater health risks.
Repair Water Damage With Integrity Restoration Experts
To avoid these hidden dangers, it’s important to seek professional repair from a trusted company like Integrity Restoration. Our team is trained and equipped to handle all types of water damage and will ensure that your property is thoroughly dried and restored to its pre-existing condition.
Don’t let the hidden dangers of water damage catch you off guard. Contact us today for a quick and thorough repair to protect your home.