Got Water Damage In Your Home? Here's What To Do

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Water is essential to every single human being on Earth. It is the number one need which we all share; our access to it every single day is essential. In developed countries, we have access to water without even thinking twice about it - switch on the tap, and there it is, every single time. But what happens when this intricate, ingenious water system we all rely on goes awry? Water damage. That’s what.

 

Water damage comes in many forms. It can be caused by adverse weather conditions like heavy rainfall or flooding from a local water source; alternatively, the source of the damage could be in your home, through leaks, burst pipes or roof failure. Whatever the cause, water damage can severely impact both the structural security of your home, and your health as an inhabitant of the space. Here are a few helpful tips for when water damage occurs in your home. 

Catching It Early

If you see a small patch of damp or water damage in the flooring, walls or ceiling of your home - act fast. You might think, ‘Oh, well, it’s just a little patch, no big deal.’ Wrong. Often, our perception of the damage is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the actual damage that has occurred. Particularly if you live in an apartment building, you should immediately notify the buildings manager to the issue. If you own your house, contact emergency plumbers who can cast a professional eye over the damage and determine what should be done.

 

Catching the damage early can prevent further damage which is both beneficial for your home and for your bank account. Extensive water damage can be unbelievably expensive to sort, so it is best you nip it in the bud before it gets worse.

Assessing Your Safety

If you are experiencing extensive water damage to your home, for example due to a flood or burst water system, your safety should come first. Water weakens the structures of your home by rotting through wood, plaster, paint and insulation. This means that heavy water damage can make your ceilings or walls appear saggy and cracked, compromising your safety when they eventually burst.

 

Have a professional plumber assess the damage and advise you on your safety while the damage is being fixed. You may, in extreme circumstances, need to relocate to temporary accommodation while the issues are being sorted. This is super inconvenient for anyone, but you should prioritize your safety over home comforts and conveniences.

 

Prolonged dampness in your home, however mild, can have consequences for your health and your home’s wellbeing. Mold forms when there is an excess of water vapor in the air, which is why bathrooms are so prone to becoming moldy and damp. Mold can damage your lungs by making the air damp, and filling it with harmful spores. To avoid mold buildup, ensure you ventilate your home well with fresh air, and use bleach to remove any mold that has already grown.