Did you know that about 37 percent of U.S. homeowners have suffered losses from water damage? Statistics show that over 14,000 Americans experience water damage at home or work every day. At the same time, approximately 10 percent of homes have leaks that waste at least 90 gallons of water daily. Water damage is a major problem that shouldn’t be overlooked. It can happen to anyone, anytime.
Mold growth, allergic reactions, eczema, cough, and bacterial infections are the most common side effects of water damage on human health. In rare cases, death can occur. Hiring a water damage restoration company is the best way to protect your health and your personal belongings in case of a flood, so don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
Causes of Water Damage
Water damage is usually caused by bad weather, damaged household appliances, leaky pipes, and faulty plumbing. A broken water heater, a frozen pipe, or a clogged toilet can lead to major damage and costly repairs. If you notice any signs of damage, check the affected area immediately. Look for cracks and leaks, clean up the floor or walls, and remove mold. Try to identify the cause of water damage so you can prevent future losses.
Categories of Water Damage
This incident can be classified into three categories depending on the source and type of water. The first category refers to clean water that is safe for human health. This type of water damage is caused by sink overflows or faulty household appliances. The second category, or grey water, may cause health problems if contacted or consumed by humans. The third category, or black water, contains pathogens and toxins that cause sickness.
Before cleaning up the area, it’s important to determine the severity of damage. Class 1 refers to minor water damage. In this situation, there’s only a small amount of water that has flowed into the area. Class 2 refers to water damage that has affected larger spaces, such as the entire room. If the walls and ceilings have been severely damaged, then you’re dealing with Class 3 water intrusion. Class 4 refers to water damage affecting building materials and assemblies, such as hardwood floors and concrete.
Water Damage Restoration
Whatever the cause and source of water damage, it’s crucial to clean up the area and stop the leak or drip as soon as possible. Cover the roof or the broken windows, move wet items to dry areas, and remove as much water as possible by blotting and mopping. Take photos if possible. Turn air conditioning on to speed up drying, throw away wet carpets, and replace any absorbent surfaces that are very wet. In case of major damage, call an expert.
Water damage restoration professionals use special equipment to control moisture and protect your most valuable assets. They can also identify any signs of mold and other microorganisms that pose health risks. Mold growth can occur anytime after water damage. If it’s left in place, it may affect your immune system and cause upper respiratory diseases, asthma, and allergies.
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