Water damage is one of the biggest causes of deterioration of homes and commercial buildings. It can be dangerous if left unchecked, but it’s preventable. If you’re living in a coastal area or near a body of water, vulnerable to heavy rains, you probably understand what damages your home can be exposed to.
Wherever there’s water damage, mold and rotting tend to follow, which is why it’s best to work with water damage restoration experts instead of trying any DIY methods. Working with a professional will ensure your home is safe from molds and mildew and prevent unforeseen damage in the future.
Harmful Effects of Water Damage
Water damage can cause damaging effects on a home or building. Here are the most common effects of water damage you need to avoid at all costs.
Structural damage. Water can weaken the materials that make up a building’s structure, compromising its strength and stability and putting it at risk of collapsing. For example, water can cause wood to expand, warp, or rot, and metal surfaces to rust. In addition, water can erode or weather away the soil, undermining the foundation of a building.
Growth of contaminants. Wet conditions provide an ideal environment for molds, bacteria, and other contaminants to grow, which can cause further damage to the building and give rise to numerous health issues if ingested or inhaled.
Damage to possessions. Water can damage or destroy your furniture, appliances, and other personal belongings. Water can also ruin upholstery, fabrics, and other materials, causing them to become discolored, moldy, or smelly. In addition, water can cause electronics such as computers, TVs, and other electrical appliances to short-circuit, rendering them unusable or inoperable.
Electrical hazards. Not only can water short-circuit electrical systems and appliances, causing them to malfunction or fail, but it can also lead to electrical hazards that can cause fires and shocks. As water is a natural conductor of electricity, someone coming into contact with a live electrical current in a wet environment can get electrocuted, resulting in serious injuries or even death.
Increased risk of injury. Water damage can cause floors to become slippery, making it more difficult to walk on them safely. Wet floors and surfaces can be more prone to structural damage, such as warping or buckling, which can create tripping hazards that cause slips, falls, and other injuries.
It is important to deal with water damage as soon as it is detected to prevent any of its harmful effects. This may include installing flood prevention measures, promptly fixing leaks, and thoroughly cleaning and drying affected areas.
Why Hire a Water Damage Restoration Service?
There are several reasons why it is a good idea to hire water damage restoration experts. By far, here are five of the most convincing factors.
Expertise. Water damage restoration requires professionals with the knowledge and experience to properly assess the extent of the damage and implement the necessary repairs. Restoration specialists have the equipment and skills to dry out and repair your home, ensuring it is fully restored to its pre-loss condition.
Time savings. Dealing with water damage can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. However, with a professional restoration company handling the water removal work, you will have more time to focus on other tasks.
Safety. Water damage can pose several safety risks, including electrical shock and mold growth. A professional restoration company will take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of your home and family.
Insurance. Most insurance policies cover water damage, but may require a professional restoration company. Hiring a restoration specialist can help ensure the smooth handling of your claim and that you receive the maximum benefit from your insurance policy.
Peace of mind. Hiring a restoration expert gives you the assurance knowing that your home is properly repaired and restored.
Tips for Hiring Restoration Experts
Leaking roofs and burst pipes are some of the most common causes of water damage. Similarly, natural disasters like flooding and storms are also big contributors. When you’re experiencing water damage in your home, here are important things you need to consider when looking for a water damage restoration company to hire.
Look for companies with a good reputation. Do some research online to find companies with a history of successful water damage restoration projects. Also, look for reviews and ratings from their previous customers.
Check for certifications. Look for companies with certification from the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification). This certification indicates that the company has the proven knowledge and expertise in handling water damage restoration projects.
Consider the company’s experience. Choose a company with an established good business reputation and has been operating for several years. In addition, the best company should have built up a portfolio showing their experience working with projects similar to yours.
Get estimates from multiple companies. Contact several companies to ask them for cost estimates for the work that needs to be done. Then you can compare their prices and services offered before making the critical decision.
Ask about the company’s policies. Find out the company’s payment schemes, guarantees, and warranties. Asking relevant questions can help you better understand their policies and procedures and help you feel more confident in hiring them.
The Bottom Line
Water popularly represents life, but conversely, it can also symbolize destruction. As discussed in this blog, water can cause damage to housing and building structures and material possessions, mold growth, electrical hazards, increased risk of injury, and various health issues.
Hiring a water damage restoration specialist will help you mitigate the damage water can cause and get your life back on track.
Do you need restoration experts for the water damage in your home? PuroClean of Bradenton can lend you a hand. Contact us so we can help you deal with your water damage issues.