Water is one of the most destructive elements that can affect a home. When water damage occurs, it can lead to severe and costly problems if not addressed immediately. In this blog post, we will discuss the effects of water damage and how to prevent further damage from occurring. We will also provide tips on what to do if you experience water damage in your home
What Are The Common Causes Of Water Damage?
Out of all the ways your home could be damaged, water is the most likely to affect your home. However, a natural disaster or significant event doesn’t always cause water damage; something as small as a broken pipe can also cause damage. It can be challenging to identify the source of water damage, so it’s essential to call a professional as soon as possible.
Several things can cause water damage. The most common causes are:
- Leaking or burst pipes – is one of the most common causes of water damage. Pipes can leak or burst for several reasons, such as age, corrosion, or damage.
- Leaking appliances – Another common source of water damage is leaks in washing machines, dishwashers, or refrigerators. These leaks can often go undetected until the damage is already done.
- Heavy rains or storms – Flooding is one of the most common causes of water damage. If your home is located in an area prone to flooding, it’s essential to prevent water from entering your home.
- Drainage issues – If your home’s drainage system is not working properly, it can cause water to pool around your foundation, leading to water damage.
- Sump pump failure – A sump pump removes water from your basement or crawl space. If the sump pump fails, it can cause water to build up, leading to water damage.
- Foundation cracks – Cracks in your foundation can allow water to enter your home, leading to water damage.
These problems can cause extensive damage to your home if not addressed quickly. That’s why it’s essential to know the signs of water damage and what to do if you experience it.
What Are The Signs Of Water Damage?
One of the main problems with water damage is that there may not be any signs of a problem initially. Water can seep into walls, floors, and ceilings, causing damage without being immediately noticeable. However, if you know what to look for, perhaps you can catch the problem early before hazardous bacteria and mold have a chance to grow.
Here are some of the signs that you may have water damage:
- Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Visible Mold growth
- Musty odors
- Swelling or warped floors, walls, or ceilings
- Standing water
If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to call a professional as soon as possible. The longer water damage goes unaddressed, the more damage it can do.
How Fast Can Water Damage Your Home?
Water damage can cause a lot of damage to your home in a short time. In as little as 24 hours, mold can start to grow, and the water will soak everything in the vicinity. As a result, drywall will begin to swell and crumble, wood will warp, and metal will rust.
In just a week, wood rot and structural damage can occur; metal will begin to rust, and the developing mold will become a biohazard to you and your family. The longer water damage goes unaddressed, the more damage it will do. That’s why it’s crucial to call a professional as soon as you notice any signs of water damage. Ideally, you should contact a professional within 24 to 48 hours of the water damage.
How To Prevent Water Damage In The Future
Homeowners want to avoid water damage like the plague, but it’s possible with prevention. Below are some tips on how to prevent future water damage:
- Fixed Caulking – Check the caulking around your tub, shower, sink, and toilet. Over time, caulking can crack and allow water to seep through, causing damage.
- Regular Maintenance – Check your hoses, pipes, and fittings regularly for any signs of leaks or wear. If you notice any problems, have them fixed as soon as possible.
- Proper Drainage – Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and directing water away from your home.
- Sump Pump – If you live in an area prone to flooding, install a sump pump to help remove any water that may enter your home.
- Water Heater – Check your water heater regularly to ensure it is in good working order and doesn’t have any leaks.
- Inspect The Roof – Inspect your roof regularly for any missing, damaged, or loose shingles.
- Switch From Copper to PEX – PEX is a type of tubing that is less likely to crack or leak than copper. If you have an older home with copper pipes, you may want to consider having them replaced with PEX. PEX doesn’t spring pinhole leaks, and it’s easier to work on.
How DFW Restoration Experts Can Help
While water damage is never fun, it doesn’t have to be the end of the world. As you can see, there are many things you can do to prevent water damage and steps you can take to mitigate the damage if it does occur. However, sometimes the best course of action is to call in professionals.
Get Restoration DFW has a team of certified and licensed restoration experts who have extensive experience dealing with water damage, mold, fire and smoke damage, sewage backup, etc. They understand the stress and grief you are under when your home is damaged and will do everything they can to make the overall restoration process as painless as possible.
So, if you find yourself dealing with water damage, don’t hesitate to give Get Restoration DFW a call. They will be more than happy to help you through this difficult time.
