The immediate effects of exposure to water occur within the first 24 hours. During this critical period, saturation can compromise the structural strength of floors, walls and ceilings. While visible damage may not be immediately apparent, it is essential to address exposure to water by eliminating standing water and initiating drying procedures. The longer the water stays stagnant, the greater the risk of structural deterioration and greater damage to your property. Water damage describes several possible losses caused by water intrusion, which can cause the attack of a material or system through destructive processes such as wood decay, mold growth, bacterial growth, oxidation of steel, swelling of composite woods, delamination of materials such as plywood, short circuit of electrical devices, etc.
Yes, unfortunately, damage caused by water can occur almost immediately after a water-related catastrophe, usually within the first 24 hours. Water damage can begin even an hour after the incident, depending on the amount of water involved. For example, a flood that leaves inches of water in the ground is likely to cause water damage long before 24 hours have passed. Conversely, a small, slow, leaking leak from a pipe can take more than 24 hours to cause damage. According to recent data, approximately one in 50 insured households will file a claim for water damage each year.
This means that hundreds of thousands of insurance claims are filed each year for water damage incidents. White water (Category): Water that comes from a hygienic source, such as a dripping faucet, water heater, rainwater, or melted snow. In addition to residential properties, commercial properties also frequently experience water damage incidents. It's important that both homeowners and business owners understand the risks associated with water damage and take proactive steps to prevent such incidents from occurring.
Certified professional water damage restoration specialists use psychrometry to monitor the drying process. Category 2 water: refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and that causes discomfort or illness when consumed or even exposed to it. In conclusion, water damage incidents can have significant consequences, both financially and in terms of human health and safety. It's worth noting that water damage caused by floods, earthworks, hurricanes, and other natural disasters is often not covered by homeowners insurance.
Water damage repair can be done by property management teams, building maintenance personnel, or by homeowners themselves; however, contacting a certified professional water damage restoration specialist is often considered the safest way to restore water damaged property. These statistics allow us to understand the frequency and extent of water damage. After calling a plumber (if applicable), a water damage repair company, and your insurance company, you should do everything you can to start absorbing the water and drying the area right away. According to industry estimates, every day, 14,000 people in the U.S. In the United States, there is an emergency due to water damage in their home or work, and 98% of basements in the United States.
The U.S. will suffer some type of water damage throughout its life. By taking proactive steps and staying informed, people can protect their homes, families and businesses from the risks associated with water damage. Unfortunately, for home and business owners, it doesn't take long for water to start eroding and causing structural damage.
Fire and water restoration companies are regulated by the appropriate state's Department of Consumer Affairs, usually the state contractor licensing board. Knowing when and how to address water damage can help prevent extensive and costly damage to your property. If water damage is left untreated for weeks, it is likely that the house is now dangerous and uninhabitable (therefore, evacuation is essential)).
