Water damage is one of the most stressful scenarios you can face as a homeowner. In many cases, it takes place out of the blue and disturbs your normal life. Before you know it, you need to move out until one of the most dependable water damage companies in Irvine returns the place to its former condition.
But you can do a lot of things to prevent massive harm to your household. To help you do that, we’ll familiarize you with the most common water damage facts, such as potential causes and consequences. This information will help you stay on the lookout and react on time if any water-related threat emerges. Keep reading!
What are some common water damage facts?
Many homeowners are unfamiliar with some key water damage details. Water damage is very different from flood damage. It also may require people to document the full extent of the ham to make the most of their insurance claim.
Here’s what else you should know about water damage:
Water damage can have numerous causes
Identifying the root of your water damage problem can sometimes be hard, as there can be many culprits:
- Damaged pipes: Plumbing systems, especially in old houses, are prone to damage and stoppages. To prevent these issues before they bring about massive harm, be on the lookout for bulges, cracks, stains, and other signs of moisture.
- Broken appliances: As your appliances age, their hoses can deteriorate, and their pipes can corrode. For instance, dishwashers leaks can result in puddles on the kitchen floor, indicating that it’s broken.
- Clogs: Sink and bathroom drains can quickly get clogged with dirt, hair, grease, and many other substances, leading to water damage.
There are three types of water damage
Water damage is categorized into three types based on the severity of the problem, indicated by the type of water causing it:
- Clean water: This type of water doesn’t contain toxins and it generally causes damage to your bathtubs, sinks, and appliances.
- Gray water: Gray water includes water from toilets, sump pump backups, and washing machines. While coming into contact with it may not harm your health, it’s important to disinfect your home completely since the chemicals and waste may cause health issues down the line.
- Black water: Black water is the most serious water damage, requiring swift action to minimize health risks. It includes rising floodwater, sewage, seawater, along with ground and river water.
Water damage can lead to rampant mold growth
Mold is the last thing you want in your house. It takes just a day or two after water damage for spores to accumulate on your waterlogged possessions. This includes various items, such as carpets, drywall, and clothing.
Mold doesn’t only damage your home’s structural integrity and belongings. It can also be toxic and give rise to allergic reactions and breathing problems. Without a quick response, mold growth can become a very serious issue.
You can prevent some forms of water damage
Although most types of water damage are unpredictable, you can help prevent some occurrences. Here’s how:
- Disconnect hoses: Remove your hoses from faucets to prevent standing water from freezing and creating ice that could break your pipes.
- Clean gutters and downspouts: Get rid of gutter and downspout debris at least twice a year to avoid blockage.
- Maintain appliances: Replace the components on your washer and refrigerator to avoid leaks.
- Fix leaks promptly: To prevent minor leaks from causing major harm, have them addressed early on.
Need help from water damage companies in Irvine? Just give us a call!
From broken water heaters to leaking faucets, water damage can be one of the most destructive problems in your house. Left unchecked, excess water can lead to electrical hazards, structural instability, and mold growth.
Luckily, you’re not alone when this happens. Reach out to EHS, and we’ll be on-site promptly, with all the skills and equipment necessary to return your home to its previous condition. While we handle the issue, go for a relaxing stroll at the Jeffrey Open Space Trail, away from the noisy repairs. Book EHS for first-rate remediation services!