By Water damage is a nightmare for property owners, resulting in soaked carpets, moldy walls and ceilings, and costly damages. According to water damage restoration richardson tx experts, while it’s impossible to prevent all forms of water damage from occurring, it is possible to mitigate them with proper maintenance and home inspections.
Seeing signs of water damage in your home can be scary, but most homeowners gloss over them. That’s because not all water damage is visible, and it can be easy to overlook if you don’t know what to look for. But there are some clear signs of water damage that you should never ignore.
One of the most apparent signs of a leak is water stains or rings on the ceiling or walls. If you notice these, it’s vital to trace the source of the leak and call a plumber immediately. This damage can lead to rotting wood and severe health hazards if left untreated.
Another common cause of in-home water damage is leaking appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters. Regular maintenance on these appliances can help prevent leaks. In addition, if you’re planning to go away for an extended period, turning off the water main before you leave is a simple and effective way to keep your home safe from unexpected flooding and damage.
Besides visual signs of water damage, your sense of smell is also a good indicator. If a room has a musty or damp odor, it could be a sign of mold or mildew growth. If this is the case, water damage restoration richardson tx experts recommend ventilating the area with large box fans and using a dehumidifier to ensure moisture has been completely removed.
When water damage occurs, moisture and toxins can lead to serious health issues. It can damage building materials like wood, drywall, and carpeting, and it can also be dangerous if it is contaminated with bacteria or other germs from sources such as sewers. It can also cause microbial growth, such as mold and mildew.
Airborne Contaminants
Inhalation of airborne contaminants (dust, gases, vapors, smoke, and fumes) can cause a wide range of diseases depending on the type of contaminant, its concentration, and how long a person is exposed. The short-term effects can include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, and dizziness. Long-term exposure can result in respiratory disease, cardiovascular impacts, and cancer.
The damp environment in water-damaged buildings promotes the growth of bacteria. This includes gram-positive bacteria (e.g., Actinomycetes and Mycobacteria), which produce endotoxins and exotoxins with adverse health impacts, such as lipopolysaccharides and hemolysins. The decomposition of organic materials such as paper, insulation, and wood also releases volatile organic compounds, a source of airborne pollutants.
During hurricanes, the exposure to airborne contaminants increases due to the physical damage to manufacturing and other facilities and the flooding of residential and commercial areas with chemical substances. Carbon monoxide poisoning is an additional risk during power outages if generators are not operated correctly.
Respiratory Infections
Mold can cause respiratory illness in people with poor immune systems. The symptoms include fever, cough, and sinusitis. Molds trigger asthma attacks. A study following Hurricane Katrina reported increased respiratory symptoms.
In the ER, doctors warn of a possible surge in Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infections this winter. The disease is more common in babies and young children and can lead to bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses. The virus usually peaks in December and January.
