3 Facts About Water Damage

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

Drying equipment placed in a home due to water damage.

Three Water Damage Facts

As a Boylan Heights, NC, homeowner, you probably want to do all you can to avoid water damage and other problems a pipe burst can cause. Understanding how moisture can affect your home's building materials, systems and personal belongings is the first step to protecting your property from these types of incidents.

1. Flooding Causes Mold Growth
One issue you may not be aware of after a burst pipe floods a room is how quickly mold can appear in the aftermath. Mold spores that exist naturally inside your home thrive on humidity and moisture, something almost any type of indoor floods cause. Mold may appear as soon as 24-48 hours after the initial incident, but keeping humidity levels low with fans may slow this process.

2. Building Materials Absorb Water
After a pipe or water line break, the walls, carpeting and even the insulation inside your home can absorb water. Drywall is especially porous and may grow mold that you cannot see. Ask your water restoration and mitigation company to perform a flood cut, which involves cutting into the wall about a foot above the flood line to examine the extent of the interior walls' damage. This can help you decide which sections can remain and which must be replaced.

3. Water Warps Wood
After a pipe bursts, the water that enters other rooms, such as your living room or home office, can warp wooden floors and furniture. You may want to remove wooden furniture from the flooded areas or close off flooded rooms so the water cannot reach areas with wood floors. You can use absorbent padding or towels to block the thresholds of rooms that have gaps between the door and the floor.
Floods with an indoor source, such as those caused by a pipe burst, are usually unexpected and it can be difficult to protect your Boylan Heights, NC, home if you are not aware of the damage can cause. Remaining in the know can help you remain prepared.