What are the different types of water damage?
1. Flood damage
Flood damage is classified as a Class 3 issue.
Water damage can cause substantial damage to property, requiring prompt cleanup.
Only return to an evacuated area after local authorities advise it is safe to do so.
2. Water damage from a pipe burst
Water damage can come from a variety of sources, including contaminated black water, plumbing leaks, electrical issues, and extinguished pilot lights or submerged connections. If you have water damage, contact a 24/7 water damage company for help.
3. Water damage from a water leak
Water damage can be caused by a variety of factors, some sudden and some over time. Flooding is the most common cause of water damage, followed by leaks. Clogged gutters can lead to sewage backing up into your home and causing water damage. Faulty or malfunctioning appliances can cause water damage. There are many different types of water damage and the causes vary.
4. Water damage from a faulty appliance
Water damage can come from a variety of sources, including flooding, leaks, sewage backup, clogged gutters, and appliances.
There is no easy way to prevent water damage – it is simply a fact of life.
Water damage can cause building materials, appliances, fixtures, and furniture to be damaged.
Mold thrives in water damage, and can be a health concern.
Depending on where the water came from, water damage may lead to other health concerns.
5. Water damage from a storm
Water damage can come from a variety of sources, such as storms, broken pipes, and flooding. When water accumulates on something else in the home – like in a gutter or on the ground – it can cause wet carpets, flooded basements, and ruined furniture.
Water damage can come from a variety of sources, such as clogged gutters, faulty appliances, and storms. When water accumulates on something else in the home – like in a gutter or on the ground – it can cause wet carpets, flooded basements, and ruined furniture.
6. Water damage from an earthquake
Water damage can come from a variety of sources, including floods, weather, leaks, sewage backup, and appliances. If you notice any water damage or problems with your water system, it is important to contact a professional as soon as possible.
Water damage can be caused by a variety of events, including storms, floods, roof leaks, HVAC leaks, busted pipes, overflowing appliances, or sewage backup.
If you suspect water damage in your home, call a professional immediately to assess the situation and clean up any damaged property.
7. Water damage from a water heater
Water damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including flooding, faulty appliances, and clogged gutters. Clean water damage can cost anywhere from $1 to $11 per square foot, depending on the cause. Common causes of clean water damage include leaking faucets, toilet tanks, and burst pipes.
To prevent more expensive damage, repairs should be made as soon as possible. Water heaters need to be maintained yearly by a professional; if they leak or burst pipes, repairs will need to be made promptly.
8. Water damage from a washing machine
Water damage can occur from a variety of sources, including flooding, weather, leaks, sewage backup, and clogged gutters.
Black water damage is caused by sewage and requires decontamination.
Clean water damage is less of a concern but still requires remediation.
Standing water in affected areas is less of a concern and does not require remediation.
What are the effects of water damage on your home?
1. Water damage can cause mold and other health problems
Water damage can cause a whole range of problems, from compromised frames and foundations to mold. Here are some tips on how to clean up water damage in your home and prevent it from happening in the first place:
1. Clean up any water droplets that have settled on surfaces. Use a vacuum cleaner or duster to remove any excess moisture.
2. Promptly dry all surfaces that were wetted by the water. This includes carpets, floors, furniture, and fixtures. Fans may be needed to help circulate air throughout the room.
3. Contact a professional if there are visible signs of mold or structural damage caused by the water leak. A qualified contractor will be able to assess the damage and recommend appropriate repairs or replacements
2. Water damage can cause structural damage to your home
Water damage can cause a range of problems that can affect your home’s structural integrity. The effects of water damage depend on the type of water leak and the location it is in.
Water damage can cause electrical problems, ruined floors, and more.
Water damage can lead to dangerous electrical hazards and hidden mold growth.
It costs around $1,000 to $3,000 to repair water damage in a home.
Water damage in multiple rooms increases the cost of repairing the damage significantly.
3. Water damage can cause electrical problems
Water damage can cause electrical problems if the wet areas are near exposed wiring or if the water gets into contact with batteries. Take precautions to prevent water damage from occurring in the first place, such as avoiding floods and broken pipes. Faulty appliances can also cause electrical problems.
4. Water damage can cause loss of property value
Water damage can cause extensive damage to your property, and in some cases, can lead to a loss of property value. To help prevent water damage from happening in the first place, follow these tips:
-Make sure all plumbing is properly functioning and maintained. If there are any leaks or issues with the system, have them corrected as soon as possible.
-Ensure that windows aren’t left open during rain or snowstorms. This allows water to accumulate on the inside of the windows and causes leaks.
-If there is standing water on your property, clear it up as soon as possible. This includes removing any branches or leaves that may have accumulated in the water, and calling a professional to clean up any damaged structural components of your home such as ceilings or floors.
5. Water damage can cause a loss of income
Water damage can cause a loss of income and damage to property. It is important to get the correct professional to assess the damage and classify it as quickly as possible to avoid further damage. Water damage can cost anywhere from $3-$7 per square foot, depending on the severity.
Clean up water damage in your home
Step 1: Shut down the water source and electricity
Shutting off power and gas before starting any clean-up will help avoid any danger.
If you have to enter standing water, turn off the main power before entering.
Shutting off your gas supply will also shut off all appliances in your home.
If you notice water damage, turn off your home’s water as soon as possible.
Locate your home’s shut-off valve by your water meter and try to open it with whatever tools you have available.
If you can’t find the shut-off valve, use pliers or a screwdriver to get it open.
If your water meter has frozen, you can try to circulate warm air from your home into the room where your water meter is located. If this fails, you may have to wait for a plumber to come and shut off the water and electricity in your home.
Step 2: Assess the damage
1. Immediately contact a professional to inspect the damage and assess the need for restoration.
2. If you are able to stop the water source, begin cleanup immediately. If not, begin cleanup as soon as possible and make sure to protect any nearby property from further damage.
3. Protect any property that may be affected by water infiltration by sealing off any cracks or joints in the foundation, walls, and ceilings; covering openings with plastic sheeting; or installing a sandbag barrier around areas of vulnerable height (e.g., roofs).
4. Clean surfaces that may have been exposed to water (e.g., floors, furniture) with a disinfectant cleaner such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide mixed with warm water until the surface is clean. Allow surfaces to dry completely before using them again.
Step 3: Call your insurance company
Call your insurance company to find out what kind of coverage your home insurance has for water damage. Take pictures and videos of the water damage so that it is easier to file a claim. Have a restoration/construction company handle the restoration while you are in your home, following government guidelines if there is a natural disaster.
Step 4: Set up drying equipment
1. Check drying equipment performance and make changes as needed.
2. Monitor the drying process daily with specialists.
3. Reduce project drying time by leaving closet and cabinet doors open.
