When water comes spilling into your house, it starts the clock that measures the time before your home and its contents become irreparably damaged. There are a multitude of reasons not to leave water damage untreated, and all of them result in destruction if not properly managed. Here is a closer look at what makes not repairing the damage such a bad idea.
Structural Weakening
Water is one of the most destructive forces on Earth. Need more proof? The Grand Canyon formed as the result of running water from the Colorado River. And if you don’t think a flood can ruin the structural integrity of your home, you are sorely mistaken. Be on the lookout for cracks in your walls and foundation in the aftermath of a flood.
Electrical System Breakdown
Another common problem resulting from untreated floodwater is the failure of your home’s electrical system. If you suspect the wiring in your home is compromised, don’t stick around to confirm your suspicions. Any time that water and electricity mix, it creates an unsafe situation that’s likely to result in a call to a licensed electrician.
Corrosion Damage on Pipes
Like your home’s foundation, the pipes in your home are also vulnerable to untreated flood water. Many people incorrectly assume that floodwater is the same as the water that flows through their pipes normally, but this generally isn’t the case. Floodwater can contain organisms and contaminants that result in pipe corrosion if not dealt with swiftly.
Dangerous To Your Health
While the danger of physical injury is very real, flooding also presents a significant threat to your health. Mold and mildew can quickly transform your home into a fungal breeding ground. Be on the lookout for any signs of a mold outbreak following flooding to help keep everyone in your household safe.
Lowers Home Value
The last of our reasons not to leave water damage untreated is that flooding can easily torpedo your home’s value. While less scrupulous sellers will attempt to cover up water damage, it is a home inspector’s job to find these areas of concern before allowing the sale to proceed. While performing a walkthrough, they look for anything that might impact the value of the property. By leaving water damage untreated, you are reducing the chances that you will receive the full value of your home.
If your home needs rescuing after a flood, our team at Aloha Restoration is here to help. Servicing homes in need of smoke and water damage restoration in Lake Zurich, IL, and the surrounding communities, we have the knowledge and expertise to get the job done right.
