Two Problems That Occur When Prolonged Water Damage Happens

When water damage in your Billings home is not cleaned up quickly, it will end up causing more problems. In fact, there are two major problems that can result from prolonged water damage and we are going to break each one down for you. 

Water Damage Restoration In Billings

1. Structural Damage

Walls, ceilings, floors, and foundation all make up the basic structure of a home.  While the materials that make up these components are sturdy and intended to last, they are still susceptible to the destructive effects of water damage. The structural integrity of wood, sheetrock, insulation, sub flooring, drywall, cement, padding,  and carpet is greatly compromised when water is present for extended amounts of time. Because these materials are porous, they will absorb all the moisture that is available to them until they become fully saturated. This absorption will lead to expansion; which will then cause warping, weakening, rotting, cracking, and deterioration. If these materials, which make up the structural components of your home, are weakened by water, the very integrity of your home is at risk. The longer the water is allowed to sit following water damage, the more damage these structural materials will sustain.

2. Mold 

Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours after water damage has occurred. Mold requires a food source, moisture, and time in order to grow. Since our homes are made up of prime food sources for mold (i.e. wood, drywall, sheetrock, etc.), all it takes is for a little water leak, or a major water disaster, for mold to grow. If you allow the water to stay, or put off extraction and drying, mold will have the time it needs to grow and turn into a big problem. Mold is naturally occurring both indoors and outside, but when mold is found in the home it can pose some serious health risks. Since mold reproduces through microscopic spores that travel through the air that are easily inhaled by all those who are exposed to it, it can cause some serious respiratory symptoms. Coughing, sneezing, headaches, rashes, irritation to the eyes, runny nose, congestion, sore throat, fatigue, and skin irritation are just some of the side effects of mold exposure. For those with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, the elderly, and infants, these symptoms are worsened and can include shortness of breath, allergic reactions, and sinus infections. These serious health effects make mold a huge risk anytime there is water damage, so cleanup, drying and restoration need to occur as quickly as possible to halt mold growth. 

The best way to prevent structural damage and mold from becoming a serious problem following water damage is to begin water damage restoration as soon as possible. The certified water damage professionals at Faithful Disaster Restoration are available 24/7 and will respond immediately to begin water damage restoration for your home. Having a certified professional team on your side will mitigate the damage and ensure that everything is thoroughly dried 0 including unseen areas that tend to be overlooked. We know how important a fast water damage restoration is to prevent any further damages to your home and property, so you can count on us to be there when you need us most.