Water damage can be unexpected, leaving you at a loss when faced with extensive damage. If neglected, the damage can cost a fortune in repairs and replacements. However, specific actions can prevent the damage from getting worse.

Water damage is a structural and health hazard. It invites pests, mold, and mildew. A damaged space brims with biohazards, so property owners should not attempt to restore the damage themselves.

Read on to learn more about water damage, its effects, and why you should involve professional services in dealing with it.

What is Water Damage?

Water damage refers to the losses suffered when water impacts or destroys property and structures. Destructive processes include mold growth, bacteria growth, steel rusting, and wood rotting.

If it’s caught quickly, professionals can remediate the damage and keep losses minimal. 

Here are a few causes:

• Leaking roofs
• Clogged toilets
• Overflow from a washing machine, bathtub, or sink
• Air conditioner leaks
• Pipe leaks
• Floods and storms

Types of Damage

Experts categorize water damage into three classes based on severity. Here are the three forms of water damage:

Clearwater Damage

Clearwater is first on the scale, and is the least severe kind of water damage. It includes water from overflowing sinks, pipe leaks, and loose taps. 

While clearwater is the least dangerous form, you shouldn’t attempt to remediate it yourself. If mishandled, water damage scenes can attract mold, mildew, and pests. Professional water damage services use unique technologies to absorb the water and restore your home to its pre-damage state.

Greywater Damage

Greywater ranks second on the damage scale. It is more dangerous than clearwater and comes from dishwashers, bathtubs, and washing machines. It can present health risks for humans if allowed to sit for more than 48 hours, as it can harbor hazardous toxins and facilitate mold growth.

Blackwater

Blackwater damage is the third on the scale and the most dangerous kind of water damage. It includes sewage and is very likely to cause harmful health effects. 

Individuals should not attempt to remediate blackwater damage, as the risks far outweigh the benefits. Instead, contact water damage specialists like ONEighty Solutions immediately. 

Effects of Water Damage 

Depending on the circumstances, water damage can destroy fabric, furniture, drywall, and electronics. The earlier it is caught, the easier it is for specialists to salvage your property.

Here are some of the effects of water damage:

Mold Growth 

Due to microbial action, water damage can spur mold growth and help it to thrive. Mold needs moisture, and water damage creates the perfect conditions for an infestation.

Air pollution 

Water-damaged areas often result in high humidity, and this negatively impacts air quality and causes discomfort. It can also lead to health risks for people with respiratory illnesses or asthma.

Pest Infestations

Water damage can cause organic appliances like wooden furniture to rot and attract pests like termites. A termite infestation can wreak havoc on other devices and result in costly damage.

Structural Damage

Floods and pipe leaks can weaken walls and wood in a property’s structure, causing rot and structural damage. Professional services like ONEighty Solutions use unique technologies to absorb moisture and dry the space completely.

Dos and Don’ts of Water Damage

Dos 

• Switch off all electricity outlets immediately.
• If you can identify the source of the leak, isolate it.
• Move undamaged possessions to a dry place.
• Contact professional services to assess the extent of the damage and restore the scene.

Don’ts

• Don’t attempt to clean up the damage by yourself. You may risk biohazardous exposure. Instead, reach out to specialists.
• Pay attention to the situation. Contact professional services upon discovery or less than 24 hours later.
• If a storm causes damage, avoid entering the structure. You may encounter things like tree branches and failing roofs.

Why You Should Involve ONEighty Solutions 

The safest technique to restore a water-damaged home is to contact the certified water damage restoration professionals. 

Many homeowners believe that doing things themselves is ideal, but they soon learn that the procedure is trickier than they thought. In the long term, it costs more money and risks one’s health.

You should call ONEighty Solutions for these reasons: 

We Help Avoid Biohazardous Exposure

Biohazardous exposure can result from mold growth or harmful chemicals in sewage. Professionals wear personal protective equipment (PPE) that helps them to avoid these toxins. We are trained and equipped to identify biohazards and thoroughly decontaminate the area.

We Handle the Job Thoroughly

Water damage can wreak havoc on your home or business, so you must get a thorough response. Professional water damage restoration services respond quickly and can clean up the water, dry, and disinfect the area.

We Have the Right Equipment

Reputable water damage specialists invest in cutting-edge technology like high-end water extraction tools, dehumidifiers, and drying equipment. The right equipment speeds up the damage restoration process and ensures your home is biohazard-free.

Water damage is a property owner’s nightmare, as it destroys electronics, furniture, and drywall. These damages can cost a small fortune to fix. 

Timing is crucial during this scenario. Property owners must refrain from attempting to handle the cleanup themselves as they may worsen the problem. Hence, it is wise to call specialists as soon as you discover the scene.

At ONEighty Solutions, our specialists are trained and equipped to handle water damage and prevent its harmful effects. If you are experiencing water damage, contact us. We’re always happy to help!