Water damage can cause irreparable structural ruin. It doesn’t matter where the water came from; it is more important to repair the damage immediately. In this regard, experts usually employ different methods when completing a given property restoration work.
What Is Structural Damage?
It refers to damage to your home foundation, including the roof and the load-bearing walls. Anything that causes damage to the support structure of your property can be dangerous.
Floods and windstorms are the most common causes of structural damage. Hidden leaks, meanwhile, can cause corrosion and weakness to a foundation’s metal structures. Unnoticed plumbing issues can also affect the stability of your property.
Signs of Home Structural Damage
According to a Dallas water damage restoration expert, any home that has been damaged by water can have structural problems and is at risk of falling apart. Below are the signs that your home may need structural repairs.
1. Black Water Contamination
Floods can cause black water contamination. It is water that contains human and animal waste, causing illnesses due to the presence of pathogens. To prevent the spread of deadly chemicals from black water, it is imperative that you immediately clean or remove any damaged furniture.
2. Severe Mold Growth
This is another sign of severe home water damage. Molds can grow within 24 to 48 hours after the water has flooded your house. These fungi are dangerous not only for your home but also for your health.
3. Damaged Gas Lines and Appliances
Water damage can also ruin your gas lines. Meanwhile, appliances like your furnace, dryer, washer, water heater, and air conditioner can be damaged even by minor basement flooding. If these are branded appliances, restoring them to their pre-damaged condition can be difficult. Restoration experts may recommend that they be rewired or replaced.
4. Ceiling Damage
A damaged ceiling caused by a hurricane or windstorm could also place your property at risk of structural instability. Even if this is the only problem you see, restoration professionals are still needed because excess water could have been retained in your ceiling. This will eventually attract the attention of molds and other fungi.
5. Drywall Damage
Homeowners often neglect home walls during a flood. This is risky because mold thrives in damp walls. If your wall feels soft to the touch, it’s an indication of water damage, and you need to have this repaired or replaced immediately.
The Role of Restoration Experts
Water damage is a matter of urgency. This is why professionals are required to assist in completing the restoration process as soon as possible.
Below are some of the things that restoration experts can provide you after water damage.
1. Cleanup
It can be difficult to deal with water damage on your own. This can only prolong the cleanup process and worsen the problem. Let the professionals take charge of the restoration work for the best results. They have the tools, equipment, and know-how necessary to complete any cleanup job on time.
2. Restoration
Experts will not only inspect structural damage to your property, but they will also provide complete restoration service. Experts use their tools and equipment, including air filters, vacuums, and high-grade pumps, to dry the affected area quickly and ensure that no trace of mold and bacteria are found.
3. Protection
Personal health is at risk from water damage repair and cleanup. There are many hidden dangers in water, and you don’t know what you might be exposed to if you do it yourself. Restoration specialists can keep you safe from their end. They can shut off electricity sources, inspect for gas leaks, stabilize your property, and remove all stubborn bacteria and viruses that might still be clinging to your house and furnishings.
4. Expertise
Restoration professionals’ years of experience in handling water damage is a testament to their skills and expertise. It is one of the things that they will bring with them when they work on restoring your damaged home.
5. Insurance Assistance
Filing insurance claims after a home has been damaged by water is not easy. The process is quite complex and will require proper documentation. Restoration professionals can help you by providing proof of your losses. They can also help you negotiate a fair settlement from your insurance company.
Key Takeaway
The extent of water damage is best seen in the condition of your property after bearing the brunt of the disaster. Often, you’ll find that a good part of it has been hit hard, especially the walls, floors, and ceiling. This can weaken the overall structure of your home, so restoration should be seriously considered.
Home restoration work after water damage is a complex process. Some people believe otherwise and proceed to do the cleanup themselves. This is a dangerous move as there are hidden dangers in the water, some of which can be detrimental to your health. It’s best to allow the experts to handle all restoration works so you can get your normal life back in no time.
