The Most Common Causes of Water Damage
About 40% of all households have experienced water damage in their homes. Not only does it affect the structure and the aesthetics of the house itself, but it also causes health concerns such as inhalation of mold spores.
The good news is that most causes of water damage are preventable. Yet, even if it’s already too late, there’s a solution for mold problems. Not all hope is lost then. Perhaps you’re considering a property or wanting to ensure safety in your existing homes. Either way, it helps to be aware of this damaging concern.
Read on to understand the causes, the prevention of water damage, and how to address mold growth as its consequence.
Common Causes of Water Damage
Deterioration is a natural process, but it happens faster when water is involved. Here are some of the most common causes of water damage:
Leaking or burst pipes
Leaks in the plumbing system can be hard to find until the damage becomes apparent. Pipe leaks can occur due to natural corrosion or possibly from a burst pipe due to having been frozen in winter.
Roof leaks
When there’s adverse weather, or there’s a lack of maintenance, your roofing can get compromised. It can allow water to get into the ceilings, attics, and inside drywalls.
Clogged gutters and downspouts
Most homeowners hate the idea of getting up on a ladder and cleaning the gutters. But it’s an important task you shouldn’t put off. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause a leaky roof, foundational damage, and mold growth in your basement.
Faulty appliances
Washing machines and water heaters are among the leading causes of water damage in your home. They can rust, corrode, and leak. Be attentive to corrosion and be sure to inspect them regularly to prevent leaks.
Air conditioner condensation
Its drain line can get clogged by debris if the machines are not being maintained regularly. It can encourage mold growth which then circulates in the air inside your home.
High humidity
Constant high humidity in enclosed areas can do worse damage than actual dripping/leaking water.
Flooding and adverse weather
Natural disasters can bring in a surge of water that can damage the home way after the water has receded.
Signs of Water Damage
The good thing is it’s easy to detect the tell-tale signs of water damage. Once identified, you can find its source and have the issue addressed. Here are some of the things you should watch out for:
- There’s a pervading scent of mildew or a damp, musty smell.
- Yellowish/ brownish stains can be found on ceilings, walls, and floors.
- Wall paint is bubbling or peeling.
- Rusty metals are found around the house.
- There is loose caulk around pipes.
- There’s rotting wood within the home.
- The walls are swollen and feel damp.
- You have unusually high water consumption.
Ways to Prevent Water Damage
Regular maintenance of pipes, caulking, roofing, and appliances is the best way to prevent water damage. Paying attention to its signs would likewise address the problem at the soonest. Also, make sure that you disconnect your outdoor hose before the winter weather kicks in. Leaving it connected will to the fixture may cause the water within to freeze, which can cause your pipes to burst.
Your Home May Not Be Safe
A flooded basement, plumbing emergency, or a roof leak are no fun to deal with. But these issues need to be taken care of immediately as they can cause significant problems. To make matters worse, you only have 24 hours before mold starts to grow. That means you have no time to waste.
As you probably already know, molds can be a serious health threat to you and your family. For the immunocompromised and for those who have poor respiratory health, mold presence may trigger asthma, allergy, and other respiratory illnesses.
You may ask: “What if it’s too late? What if molds are already present in my home?” There’s only one sure way to detect it – allow certified professionals to conduct mold testing.
We Got You Covered
At Certified IAQ Professionals, we can conduct a thorough investigation of all the spaces in your home to identify mold presence. If we find visible molds in water damage, we’ll conduct further sampling to identify it and check if it affects your air quality.
When we know better, we can propose a remediation process that can provide you with better indoor air quality and prevent a repeat outbreak. This complete service will ensure that your home is safe from inhaling toxic molds.
We offer free consultation and provide resources that can help. For mold testing and remediation services, do call us today at 303-995-7015.