7 Reasons Not to Ignore Water Damage

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage in Northern Georgia, it’s no big deal. Right? Afterall, it’s only water. But water is known as the universal solvent for a good reason - because it dissolves more substances than any other liquid. That includes major structural parts of your home or business. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here’s are seven negative impacts of leaving water damage untreated:

1. Devalued Property - The signs of water damage are difficult to hide. They’ll usually reveal themselves to any appraiser even if you attempt to paint over the stains. Also, when water’s left untreated, a repellent smell can linger which will probably turn buyers away.

2. Structural Damage - this occurs depending on the amount of water surrounding the affected area. Drywall begins to deteriorate and the subfloor can easily warp or even split, meaning you’ll end up replacing and restoring the affected areas. Even solid materials that foundations are made of, whether masonry, concrete or stone, can soak up small amounts of water through their cracks and pores. Unless these pockets of water are removed, they can create defects in the building foundation that eventually weaken the entire structure.

3. Mold - Any presence of water can cause mold to begin growing in as quickly as 48 hours. Once mold is present, it can be very difficult and expensive to treat and remove. Also, if mold is left untreated it can spread and can cause health effects.

4. Electrical Damage - Once electrical systems are damaged by moisture, wiring, outlets, and electric boxes become unsafe to use until they’re professionally inspected. Electrical water damage usually occurs to kitchen appliances, washing machines, dryers, hot water tanks, furnaces, and low mounted electrical outlets.

5. Health Hazards - A home or business exposed to floodwaters are susceptible to harmful bacteria and other microbes. If not treated correctly, toxins will linger on your affected furniture, carpets, and inside your HVAC system long after the water has dried. Those bacteria and microbes can cause serious respiratory issues and other health issues.

6. Lost Personal Items - The same water that causes structural damage can destroy many personal items including, photographs, books, electronics, and personal documents, among other items. However, if you act quickly and call SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties, we can help save and restore many of your personal items.

7. And…Bugs! - Bugs love moisture and water damage creates the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, beetles, fleas, ticks, spiders, and more. And the hatching eggs and dying bugs will attract even more insects to the area as well as spread bacteria.

As you can see, when water damage occurs, immediate action is needed as it helps to minimize the damage and cleaning and restoration costs. SERVPRO of Union, Towns, Fannin & Gilmer Counties is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. Be sure to give us a call so you never have to suffer long from the seven dangerous impacts of water damage.