The fear of water damage often hounds property owners. However, it is almost impossible to escape water damage, since we have no control over nature. The damage caused can cost thousands to restore, with every part of a flooded house, from its foundations to its furniture being affected. But what are the effects of water damage on a property?
The most common problem of water damage is mold growth, requiring mold remediation and mold removal services. Mold is a kind of fungus that helps things decompose, but it can also cause tremendous destruction to properties. It also grows very quickly and can appear within just 24 to 48 hours after water has entered the property. 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, if there is mold, it has to be taken care of straight away. Black water contamination is another potential danger that needs to be addressed. Black water is the most dangerous category of water because it usually includes human and animal waste. This water, which includes river and lake water, can cause significant illness. 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. Of utmost importance is that the residents of the property and the cleaning crew receive a tetanus shot and other vaccinations. It is common for black water to be present in basement water. The next issue has to do with damaged gas and electric lines and appliances. All electric and gas lines and appliances must be turned off and the wiring and piping must be checked. After water damage, most people won't be able to have power to their property for some time. Unfortunately, even having just a little bit of excess basement water can lead to serious problems with appliances, which will have to be replaced more often than not, to the cost of thousands.
Lastly, there are health considerations to make as well. In fact, it is the health problem that make it so necessary to phone a restoration expert as soon as possible. Mold, for instance, can enter the airways leading to asthma attacks and more significant allergy problems. If some of the home residents are very young, very old, or ill, this could potentially cost them their life. Furthermore, even healthy people are at greater risk of developing a respiratory illness. Black water contamination is, as stated, the most significant danger to health and should be avoided at all times. Lastly, there is the emotional stress and pain associated with experiencing water damage, which is something that should always be considered. When homeowners lose those things that they love, the psychological impact is tremendous.