Water Damage Basics: Why You Can't Ignore It

Water damage is a serious concern, and it is one that you shouldn't ignore. For many homeowners, it's easy to dismiss what might seem like minimal water damage, especially if it doesn't seem as though it affects anything more than a small area. However, water damage is a serious concern for many reasons, and you shouldn't ignore it. Here's a look at what you need to know about water damage and why you need to pursue water damage restoration as soon as possible.

Staining And Odors

The most obvious, and the most minimal, of the issues that water damage can cause is discoloration and staining in the affected area as well as persistent odors. You'll likely have musty, mildew-like odors in the area. While the discoloration and odor aren't harmful, they can be disturbing and might also be an annoyance. You'll need water damage restoration to eliminate them.

Mold Growth

Another common problem that can occur following water damage issues is mold growth. When you put off water damage restoration, that mold can continue to grow unchecked. This will lead to mold spores spreading throughout your home. Those spores can be hazardous to your health and the health of your loved ones. It's in your best interest to ensure that you have water damage issues addressed as soon as possible to prevent health risks from mold exposure.

Structural Concerns

Perhaps one of the most concerning issues that may happen following water damage is structural deterioration. Especially with wood components and water-vulnerable building materials, there's a serious risk of structural issues caused by water penetration. This can leave your home vulnerable to pests and other similar problems, and it may lead to weaknesses that could put your safety at risk.

Electrical Hazards

While some people think about mold and structural damage when they think of water damage issues, many overlook the risk of electrical hazards as a result of water damage. Remember that water will conduct electricity, so any water remaining in the area where wiring has been damaged could be a safety threat.

Additionally, any water exposure could cause short circuits or damage breakers, wiring connections, and other similar components. This may ultimately lead to an electrical fire if it's not properly addressed.

As you can see, water damage isn't something that you want to ignore. If your home has suffered from any level of water damage, you should reach out to a restoration contractor as soon as possible for help.