Hidden Dangers of Water Damage

Flood water from a broken pipe can strike your home and leave standing water covering your floor. While many sources may describe how to clean the damaged area by yourself, the problem is often the unseen damage left behind by the water. Rather than tackle the situation by yourself, consider these hidden problems.

Categories of Water

Although the water flooding your home may look harmless, there is a real possibility the liquid is filled with harmful substances. Flood water has been classified into three categories to help water restoration and remediation professionals understand the danger levels of contaminates:

• Category 1: This water comes from a clean source such as a broken pipe and is considered safe.
• Category 2: This water contains a minor amount of contamination and is judged as unsafe.
• Category 3: This water is grossly contaminated and often comes from sources containing fecal matter, harmful chemicals, or pesticides.

Determining the danger level of the flood water in your home can be a difficult task. That is why most homeowners rely on a professional team to remove the contaminated water and sanitize the area.

Secondary Damage

Days and weeks after the water is gone, signs of secondary damage can suddenly appear. Mold colonies can emerge from still-damp areas of the home such as behind floorboards. The lower portion of walls can begin to sag, crack, and crumble. Tiles can start moving and the grout surrounding the ceramic area may disintegrate. Hardwood floors may also show signs of buckling and warping. Sadly, secondary damage can make an appearance long after your insurance company has settled your water damage claim.

Unseen Hazards

A quick response is often the answer to eliminating water damage problems. Whether it is a broken pipe or torrential rains that flood your home removing the water in a timely manner can minimize hidden damages and mitigate unseen hazards.