The Real Risks of Water Damage

Water damage can cause major problems for your home. However, while it may seem like you can simply clean the mess up yourself and go on with life, there are many dangers associated with water and water damage. If you would like to learn more about the risks, keep reading.

Standing Water Becomes a Petri Dish

Standing water quickly becomes a colony of danger. Depending on where it came from, it may contain hazards like chemicals and waste. Even clean water can become problematic if left standing too long. Bacteria starts to thrive in the water, which increase the risk of many health hazards, such as skin rash or infection if a wound is exposed to the water.

Additionally, many of the types of bacteria living in standing water cause gastrointestinal issues like severe diarrhea, which can become life-threatening, especially in children. Until the area has been professionally cleaned, you must avoid any contact with standing floodwater. If you have to touch it or accidently come in contact with it, wash your hands immediately.

Moisture Attracts Pests

Standing water and moisture may also attract pests, which further increases the risk of spreading diseases, especially if rodents arrive. Rodents carry many types of disease, including hantavirus, leptospirosis, salmonella, and much more. However, even small pests like mosquitos can carry deadly disease like Zika virus.

Pests don’t just bring diseases, however; they also bring damage. Rodents and wood-burrowing insects can cause a lot of damage. Plus, you may find droppings, dead bugs, unpleasant odors, etc. thanks to the infestation.

Moisture Increase the Risk and Rate of Mold Growth

Mold spores can be found anywhere, even in places that can't support mold growth. However, once the conditions are right, the mold takes hold and starts to grow. Mold prefers a temperature of 77 to 86 degrees, making it more of a problem during spring before the temperatures get too high. Naturally, they also need oxygen and a food source.

Above all, however, mold needs moisture because it enables mold to grow and spread. The mold may appear on many materials, but drywall and carpets are notorious for mold growth after a flood or water damage. For some people, exposure to mold may only cause mild irritation, but for those with allergies, long-term exposure can affect breathing. Plus, if the mold is toxic like black mold, it can harm anyone.

Excessive Water Can Weaken the Home's Structure

Water damage can even affect the structure of the home. Again, pests attracted to the site can contribute to this problem. If ignored, wood-burrowing pests may weaken some parts of the house, such as wooden support beams, studs in the walls, etc. While this may not cause extensive damage, it could lead to holes and weak spots in your house.

However, water alone can also damage your home's structure. Naturally, the water can completely destroy some materials like drywall or hardwood floors. However, it can also affect the foundation if the flood water is outside the house, in the basement, or in the crawlspace.

While concrete is durable, overtime, water exposure wears away at it to create weak spots. In other situations, the ground under the foundation may start to sink or swell, leading to cracks on the floor of the basement.

If your home has recently suffered water damage, you need to act fast. Getting the water professionally cleaned up as soon as possible reduces the risk of water damage, pests, and disease. If you would like to learn more about our water damage services, or if you're ready for a quote, contact us at Central Penn Waterproofing.