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Frightening Water Damage Facts That Will Give You Nightmares

Cracked and damaged wall

What’s scarier than your home being haunted by a ghost? Encountering water damage. Even if you don’t live in a region where floods are likely, water damage can still occur from burst pipes, plumbing malfunctions, or a roof leak. Regardless of how it happens, you’ve got a major problem on your hands. Knowing these facts can help you stay safe and take swift action. In honor of Halloween, here are five terrifying facts about the hazards of water damage. Beware before you continue.

1. Mold is coming

Any kind of leak can cause mold growth. The enclosed space, along with humidity, is the perfect breeding grounds for spores to spread. Do not delay the cleanup process. It may be tempting to say you’ll handle it tomorrow, especially when it’s just a dripping pipe or a leaky ceiling; but mold can start growing as soon as 24 hours. On top of its unpleasant odor, mold can cause a multitude of issues to your immune system.

2. Floodwaters can contain dangerous toxins

There are three different types of water damage and the most dangerous category is known as black water. This damage typically happens from a sewer backup and is severely contaminated with pesticides, chemicals, bacteria, or other harmful toxins. It’s important to know what type of category you’re dealing with in order to stay safe.

3. Not all water damage is covered

Having insurance can be a major lifesaver. However, you don’t want to depend on it completely. In some cases, flood water damage isn’t included. It’s a good idea to take a look at your insurance policy and see what’s covered. For those without home insurance, now is the perfect time to look into a plan. You may think it won’t happen to you but 1 in 12 homes experience a plumbing leak each year (U.S. Housing Study).

4. Small leaks = huge mess

Pipes can become defected from freezing, corrosion, untreated clogs, and more. While that small crack might not seem like a cause for concern right now, you may want to rethink that. A small ⅛-inch fracture can lose 250 gallons of water in just one day. If you suspect that you have a supply leak on your hands, quickly turn the water shutoff valve. Knowing where this is located and stopping water flow can stop major damage.

5. Attics and basements are especially susceptible to damage

98% of basements in the U.S. will experience some type of water damage during their lifespans. Common sources of water damage stem from leaking roofs, flooding, or sewage backup, which means your attic and basement have a higher risk of being affected. While the statistics don’t look too promising, you can schedule an inspection with a water damage professional to take preventative measures.

 

If you have been affected by water damage, contact Cut N Dry Restoration at (909) 829-5002 for expert restoration services.

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