In this article, we’ll talk about some of the common causes of water damage. We’ll also discuss how they can be prevented, and why water damage restoration is vital for your home or business.

Why is Water Damage Restoration and Prevention So Important?

Any kind of water damage to a home or business is a problem that demands immediate attention. Left unchecked, water damage can result in:

Mold infestation

Black mold can affect the health of your household or office, causing respiratory problems and allergic reactions for some. If the water damage is caused by or affects your HVAC systems, this spreads spores where your air is circulated.

Structural weakness

Water can warp or weaken walls and floors, which can cause structural problems in the building. Wood and drywall are particularly vulnerable to water damage, which can lead to rot and warping.

Further damage in the future

Even if the water damage is addressed, failure to identify and address the root cause can lead to more damage and cost down the line.   

Here are some common causes of water damage and how you can address them:

Leaking Pipes and Fixtures

Issues with the plumbing are often the cause of many water damage cases.

Water pipes have fixed life spans. Supply pipes, for example, are under constant pressure, making them likely to burst or leak. Depending on the type of pipes you have, their life expectancy can range from 20-50 years (galvanized steel) to 40-70 (brass, copper).

A 1/8 inch pipe crack can leak up to 250 gallons of water in a day, which can easily wreak havoc on floors, walls, and ceilings if there is no drainage. That’s why it’s important to have your plumbing systems inspected at least once a year.

Another good way to notice any plumbing issues is by checking your water bill. If you notice an unusual spike in usage, that might indicate a possible leak and resulting water damage.

Weather

With increasingly common heavy rainfall, flooding, and extreme snow seasons, the weather is also placing a strain on where we live and work.

Strong winds and heavy rain can damage your roof and rainwater down in your house or business. It is wise to prepare for inclement weather by making sure rain gutters and downspouts aren’t clogged. Also check your building after the rain to check for areas where water might pool but not evaporate quickly.

These are areas where water can be forced in by weather:

• where the footer and your walls meet
• under doors and windows
•  wall seams
• ceilings
• roofs

Look for pooling water immediately after the storm, and for discoloration, peeling paint or wallpaper, or distortions of the surface later on. These can point to the presence of water that has seeped in.

Appliances and Equipment

Old and faulty appliances can also lead to water damage. A damaged washing machine hose or faulty connection could spill out 600 gallons of water in an hour.

The average lifespan of a washing machine is 10 years according to Consumer Reports, but it is advisable to replace the supply hose at least once every five years to prevent leaking or bursting.

Even small leaks from appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers can cause damage over time and lead to serious mold growth, because mold favors the damp and heat from these appliances. Proper use and maintenance of your appliances go a long way in preventing water damage.

Professional Water Damage Restoration Services

Water Damage Brandon looks out for your best interests by providing you with quick responses and unparalleled quality or service. Contact us today for more information.

The post Water Damage: What Can Cause It, How to Prevent it appeared first on Restoration 1 of Tampa Bay.

One dreaded household problem is water damage. It can be costly and time-consuming to repair if you don’t address the issue early on. To help you keep expenses down, our experts at Water Damage Brandon have compiled a list of telltale signs you should look out for to identify water damage in your place.

Musty Odor

A house that feels unreasonably damp and humid, as well as smells musty indoors most probably has water damage. This is because the humidity level and dampness encourage mold growth, which in turn causes the odor. You’ll find this indicator in places that have water pipes running through it, such as the bathroom or under the kitchen sink.

The “musty odor” caused by water damage is similar to the smell of wet cardboard boxes or paper. So, you’ll notice this smell in old houses, too, especially in the basement or attic.

Appearance of Mold

Mold in ceilings and walls is more often than not a sign of water damage, and it would have spread from a certain point. This epicenter is where your water damage is, or at least where it started. You’ll usually see this sign near kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms — areas in your house that also sees a lot of water usage. After all, mold thrives in moist surfaces.

Note: be sure to call in experts when you spot mold growth at home! You aren’t just dealing with property damage. Mold can also affect people’s health, so it’s in your best interest to address this quickly.

Changes in the Appearance of Flooring, Walls, and Ceiling

Wet flooring is a sign of water damage that can be easily overlooked in the less-used room corners. These areas can house mold and cause irreversible damage to sub-flooring if left unattended for a long time.

Dry walls or ceilings bubbling or flaking are more signs of water damage. Your walls and ceilings can also swell or bloat and be malleable to the touch. In a similar vein, water rings on your walls or ceiling can be a sign of a pipe leak.

Outdated Water Supply System

An outdated water supply system doesn’t immediately mean that your home has water damage, but it certainly makes the property more susceptible. So, keep an eye for the signs we’ve already mentioned.

Better yet, have an expert inspect your home regularly. We recommend that you have your water supply system checked every year. You might also need to schedule checkups and maintenance for appliances, such as air conditioning and furnaces.

Additionally, cut off the source of your older water supply when you are out of town for long periods.

High Utility Bill

It is not always easy to spot the signs of water damage, particularly in big houses with several attics. In situations like this, a surge in your utility bill could be a good indicator of water damage.

Restore Your Damaged Properties with Water Damage Brandon

Water Damage Brandon is a Florida-based company that offers fire, mold, and water damage restoration services for residential and commercial properties. We also provide emergency restoration services, sewage system cleanup, and more. You can trust our licensed professionals to address your problems quickly and effectively.
Reach out to us today to speak with one of our experts.

The post 5 Telltale Signs of Water Damage in Your Property appeared first on Restoration 1 of Tampa Bay.

Failing to address water damage immediately will lead to bigger problems. It’s important to hire water damage repair services as soon as you discover it. Here are the possible consequences of water damage when you don’t act sooner.

Effects of Water Damage to the Home

Flooding

Flooding, considered one of the worst consequences of water damage, can ruin floors, walls, and furniture. Wooden floors will swell and buckle, warping the surface and making it unattractive and risky.

Floodwater can climb up walls as the surface absorbs it, leaving ugly marks on the paint or wallpaper. Water-damaged furniture will require extensive repairs and restoration, or will be unusable and you have to throw it out.

Decay or Corrosion

Most residential properties are made of wood and metal, providing structural integrity. Although both are usually treated to be water-resistant, they can deteriorate under extreme circumstances.

Prolonged exposure to water will cause these materials to break down. When left unaddressed for too long, the damage can put the entire household’s safety at risk. A ceiling might collapse, or termites might invade the walls.

Electric Shock

In addition to floor, wall, and furniture damage, water crawling through the walls may reach electrical outlets. It may lead to electric shock, putting your entire household in danger.

For instance, stepping in a puddle of water that has been electrically charged will result in electrocution. In these cases, it’s best to vacate the affected room and contact a company that provides water damage solutions.

Mold and Mildew

When porous materials, such as wood, are exposed to moisture for a long time, they may develop mold and mildew.

Both can grow out of hand, exposing your household to health risks such as allergies and irritation. Prolonged inhalation of mold spores is dangerous to people with severe allergies or a compromised immune system.

Contamination

Pests, such as termites, cockroaches, silverfish, mosquitos, and centipedes, are drawn to damp places. Any of them can turn pockets of moisture into their breeding ground, easily taking over your home.

In these cases, you must hire professional services to address water damage and pest infestation. Water damage may result in structural destruction, which would need expensive repairs. Pest infestation may present health risks, such as Lyme disease, allergies, and strep.

The Importance of Water Damage Solutions

Water damage is not something to leave for another day. If you notice a small leak or dampness in certain areas, you need to identify the source immediately. Doing this can help you fix the problem before it gets worse. If you encounter burst pipes, call plumbing services right away to avoid potential water damage.
Restoration 1 of Tampa Bay helps you manage water damage in your home. Get in touch with our team in Brandon, FL, to book an appointment.

The post Understanding The Consequences Of Water Damage: Why It Requires Immediate Action appeared first on Restoration 1 of Tampa Bay.