There are dangers associated with a water-damaged house when the damage is caused by untreated water. Most people know about floor and wall stains, mold growth, and structural damage. Those effects are bad enough to call a plumber and water restoration company as soon as a leak hits. However, there are even more risks attached to untreated water damage that many aren’t aware of.
At Restorerz Emergency Services, our Southern California water damage experts do more than prevent mold after water damage. We’re remediation professionals who restore your home to its original condition. We handle all types of water damage, remove the dangers, and make sure you can live comfortably in your home again.
Why You Should Never Ignore Water Damage
Water damage is more than what you can see. You may need to remove standing water, replace your carpet, and keep an eye out for mold, but there are hidden issues that can cause serious problems if left unaddressed. From pest infestations to health concerns, the answer to the question “Is water damage dangerous?” is that it can be, unless it’s treated promptly.
Here are five hidden dangers of untreated water damage.
1. Mold growth and air quality issues
Mold growth is one of the most common consequences of untreated water damage. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, dark environments, and floors and drywall that have absorbed flood water are prime real estate.
White and black mold can trigger allergy symptoms and sickness with enough exposure, but mold isn’t the only health risk attached to untreated water damage. Untreated water may become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which also affect air quality, causing respiratory symptoms and other serious health concerns.
2. Structural weakness and wood rot
Water left standing for too long can do the following damage:
- Rot wood like structural beams, flooring, and walls, eventually making your home unsafe to live in.
- Affect the foundation, causing cracks that’ll affect the entire house.
- Corrode your home’s pipes and create even more water damage.
3. Electrical and fire hazards
Although it sounds counterintuitive, water damage can cause dangerous home fire hazards. If a leak interacts with your home’s electrical system, it can damage the circuits and create a house fire. In addition, water-soaked electrical wiring can cause electrical shocks, adding to the health risks present with untreated water damage.
4. Hidden contamination and bacteria
Depending on where the flood came from, exposure to water can be just as toxic as exposure to the mold and mildew it brings. Flood sources like dishwasher leaks and burst sewer lines have chemicals and contaminants that are hazardous to human health.
5. Declining property value and expensive repairs
Untreated water damage may create water stains and wear down the building material, making it unsightly and unusable. Water damage is even worse for wooden floors and walls because it can rot the structure, significantly weakening it and promoting mold growth.
These effects adversely impact property value. People want well-kept, safe houses, not rebuilding projects. Even if shoppers are content with buying a fixer-upper, untreated water damage is notoriously difficult to restore.
How To Spot Hidden Water Damage Early
It’s important to catch hidden water damage early. Common signs of water damage include:
- Musty, damp smells
- Stained or discolored walls or ceiling
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Warped or soft flooring, walls, or baseboards
- Visible mold patches
Is Water Damage Dangerous To Live With?
So, how bad is water damage to a house? It’s generally not safe to live in a water-damaged home because of the chances of coming into contact with bacteria, mold spores and other contaminants, or structural or electrical damage. If your home has water damage, call a professional team for an inspection and remediation.
What To Do If You Suspect Water Damage
If you suspect you have a hidden leak in your home, or believe there’s water damage, take the following steps:
- Step one: Turn your water main off.
- Step two: Shut off the electricity to the area if safe to do so.
- Step three: If you must enter the area, wear protective gear like gloves and boots.
- Step four: Relocate furniture and other items from the area.
- Step five: Take photos and document everything for your insurance claim.
- Step six: Call a plumber.
- Step seven: Contact your local restoration company.
- Step eight: Find out how to maximize your insurance claim.
Contact Restorerz Emergency Services for Water Damage Restoration in Southern California
Untreated water damage may cause issues that can reduce your health and quality of life. You’ll need a team of experts to ensure your house is completely water damage-free, and Restorerz Emergency Services is ready to step up for you.
Our Los Angeles water restoration company offers speedy service 24 hours a day throughout our service area, which includes these communities:
- Placentia, CA
- Van Nuys, CA
- Los Angeles, CA
- Glendale, CA
- Gardena, CA
- Las Vegas, NV
- And more
We arrive at your home within an hour of your call, drain every drop of water from your home, rebuild the damaged areas, and give you a budget-friendly rate.
Contact Restorerz Emergency Services today for untreated water damage restoration or to learn more tips on preventing flooding in your house.
Frequently Asked Questions
How bad is water damage to a house?
Water damage can be very bad for a house, especially if it’s left for weeks or months. The faster you deal with flooding and water leaks, the less costly and invasive the restoration will be.
Can I clean up water damage myself?
No. If your home has water damage, there’s a good chance there’s hidden damage, mold, and rot that can spread, unseen. Call Restorerz Emergency Services for professional remediation. We’ll make sure your home is clean and safe to live in after water damage.
How long does it take to dry out a flooded house?
Drying a flooded house may take anywhere from a couple of days to a few weeks, depending on the extent of the flooding. It can take longer than you’d expect, especially if it’s in the middle of a wet SoCal winter.