Don't wait on your water damage situation

8/12/2024 (Permalink)

Mold was found after walls were demolished more than a week from the water damage

You may think that that leak or the water that intrudes your property from different sources may go away and dry on its own. Here is what is happening when you have unwanted water in your property:

Within Minutes

• Water is spreading very fast without seeing its path, it travels under the floors, trough walls and you can’t tell just by touching the walls or the floors
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed or stain, stains may appear on carpets, rugs and other materials
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• The drywall begins to swell and break down, visible damage can be seen.
• Insulation in the walls is filled with water
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
• Insurance company may deny your claim if you didn’t address the situation by now.

It is imperative to call a restoration company as soon as possible (recommended in the first 24 hours), to attend to the water damage you have on your property. This way, they can eliminate many of the issues that arise in a timely manner and make your place a safe environment for you and your loved ones.