Preparing for the Worst
It’s easy to use false confidence in life, if anything just to reassure ourselves and calm our anxieties. For instance, it’s easy just to believe that the rattling in the car’s engine will go away on its own or the lump on your foot is probably just a bug bite. It’s easy to follow this same routine in regards to home water damage issues saying there’s no real damage that can come from moisture exposure but it really is best to prepare for the worst – and act accordingly.
Water Exposure Causes Mold Growth
By far the biggest concern from water exposure in the home is the risk of mold growth and spreading. Often times the mold and other fungi will grow hidden behind drywall and inside insulation manifesting itself to spores becoming airborne and causing a number of respiratory and sinus problems. Mold is especially dangerous to infants, the elderly, and others with weakened immune systems.
Water Harbors Bacteria and Toxins
One of the reasons a homeowner might delay on calling in a water removal service is because trace amounts of moisture will likely dissolve themselves over time. While this is true, in the process the puddle creates a breeding ground for bacteria, toxins, and microorganisms that can cause serious sicknesses.
Water Causes Structural Damage
The water has been gone for weeks and you still aren’t experiencing any adverse health effects. It’s easy to assume the worst is over and you dodged a bullet with this water damage. The truth is the moisture could have gotten into the structure of the home and is starting to cause rotting to wood studs and support beams. Eventually this dying wood will attract termites and over time the structural integrity of the home will be compromised.
Water Damage is Often Hidden
The best reason to prepare for the worst with water exposure is to give yourself sound peace of mind. Often the damage is hidden which is why it’s important to get a professional remediation team on-site immediately just to make sure no risks are or will be present and also to devise a strategy to prevent water exposure in the future.