Water damage is one of the most common and costly disasters that can happen to your property. It can cause many problems, from minor damage to major structural issues. Water damage can occur due to natural disasters such as floods or heavy rains, faulty plumbing, or leaking roofs. The severity of water damage can also affect property values, making it essential to address this immediately. This article will discuss the basics of water damage, the types of water damage, and how to fix them.
What Causes Water Damage?
Water damage occurs when water enters a property and causes damage to the structure or contents. The damage’s extent depends on factors such as the duration of exposure, the amount of water, and the materials affected. The longer water stays in contact with a surface, the more likely it is to cause damage. Water damage can be categorized into four types: clean water, gray water, black water, and sewage.
Clean water damage occurs when water from a clean source, such as a broken pipe or overflowing sink, enters a property. This type of water damage is usually not harmful to human health but can cause structural damage if left untreated. On the other hand, gray water damage occurs when water from sources such as washing machines, dishwashers, or showers enters a property. This type of water damage may contain harmful contaminants and cause health problems if ingested or inhaled.
There’s also the matter of black water damage, which happens when water from sewage or natural disasters such as floods or hurricanes enters a property. This water damage is extremely hazardous to human health and can cause serious illnesses or even death.
Types of Water Damage
Water damage can cause all sorts of damage, including:
#1 – Warped Structures
One of the most common types of water damage is warped structures. This occurs when water enters a property and causes the wooden structures to expand and warp. This can lead to structural damage and compromise the stability of the building. If left untreated, warped structures can cause the building to collapse, which can be costly and dangerous.
#2 – Mold and Mildew
Another common type of water damage is mold and mildew. This occurs when water enters a property, creating a damp environment ideal for mold and mildew growth. Mold and mildew can cause health problems and can also lead to structural damage if left untreated. Mold and mildew can be difficult to remove, and you must hire a professional mold removal service to eliminate them.
#3 – Soaked Flooring and Carpeting
Water damage can also affect flooring and carpeting. This occurs when water enters a property and seeps into the flooring or carpeting. This can cause the material to become saturated and lead to discoloration, warping, and mold growth. If left untreated, soaked flooring and carpeting can lead to expensive repairs and replacement.
#4 – Structural Damage
The most severe type of water damage is structural damage. This occurs when water enters a property and causes damage to the foundation or load-bearing walls. Structural damage can compromise the stability of the building and can be extremely dangerous. If you suspect your property has suffered from structural damage due to water, evacuating the building immediately and contacting a professional restoration service is essential.
How to Fix Water Damage
The first step in fixing water damage is to identify the source of the water and stop it from entering the property. This may involve repairing a broken pipe, sealing a leaking roof, or pumping out floodwater. Once the source of the water has been stopped, the next step is to remove any standing water and dry out the affected areas.
For minor water damage, such as warped structures or soaked flooring, it may be possible to fix the damage yourself. This may involve using a dehumidifier or fan to dry out the affected area or a wood conditioner to repair warped wooden structures.
You must hire a professional restoration service for more severe water damage, such as mold, mildew, or structural damage. A restoration service will have the tools and expertise to remove mold or mildew and repair structural damage. They will also have the equipment to dry the affected areas and prevent further damage.
Conclusion
Water damage can cause a wide range of problems and can be costly to repair. For this reason, you must address water damage immediately to prevent further damage and protect your property’s value, especially if you want to sell it. This way, you can look forward to generating high returns on your investment.
Trademark provides top-quality services for water damage restoration in Fresno. Our water remediation professionals will fix the water damage sustained by your home to make it look as good as new. Call us today at (559) 447-1466 for a free estimate!
