Water, water everywhere, and what a mess it makes.
Anyone who’s ever been through a flood, torrential rainfalls, or broken pipes knows what a serious problem water can bring to a homeowner. The cost of flood insurance can drain a middle-class bank account dry, not to mention drastically lower the property value, which gives you an idea of its potential damage. If water enters a particular area or gouges through an entire level of the property, the damage will occur quickly and may become catastrophic within mere moments.
At first, the problems resulting from water intrusion may seem minor and cosmetic, such as stained walls and broken floor tiles. However, even those issues may hide some more serious problems underneath, as damp, dark areas are a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. But that’s just the beginning. Water can cause cabinets and fixtures to rot, as well as destroy electrical devices. Even outside the house, flooding can weaken the soil foundation and put the home itself on shaky ground.
Water can do all kinds of damage, but a lot depends on the condition of the water itself. Clear water, like from broken pipes or water spots, can be destructive enough as it is. But if the water is gray or black, you have additional concerns regarding contaminants entering the home. Black water is especially troublesome, since that could be the result of a disastrous event and would be difficult to clean up.
Repairing water damage in the home can be done by a do-it-yourselfer, but it’s crucial to act fast. Prevention is your biggest weapon: Seal up any leaks or breaks in your water pipes or cracks in the walls where heavy rains can seep through. In the event of a flood warning, keep a close eye on vulnerable spots at all times. Once the water starts spreading to plywood or other wooden structures, causing noticeable symptoms, it may already be too late.
If your home has been damaged by a flood or heavy rains, or you live in an area where such events are common, contact an expert as soon as possible. A restoration service would be your best bet, since these workers can examine your home with state-of-the-art equipment and determine your level of risk. They can also protect your important items such as furniture and electronics, eliminate mold and other microorganisms that may have developed, and make sure your home is inhabitable even after the damage has occurred.
Water itself may be vital for life, but it could potentially cause massive destruction in and around your home. Make sure your house is not only insured from flood damage, but given a clean bill of health from licensed repair services. Otherwise, you could end up drowning, in both water and debt.
