The Risks of Putting off Water Damage Restoration

Water damage is a costly issue that affects many Albany homeowners especially in the spring when rain frequents the forecast. Though major pipe bursts usually incite a sense of urgency, there are other times when signs of water damage can be less apparent, or seem less dire and as result, be put off. An attempt to fix it yourself instead of getting a professional, may further delay seeking help. This is a costly mistake as without timely water damage restoration, a home can fall victim to many ills. From structural damage, to mold, unchecked water damage continues to ring up the bill all while jeopardizing the homeowners health, and potentially making the home inhabitable, and unrecoverable. 

Here are the top risks of leaving water damage untreated:

Health Hazards

Living in a home with water damage introduces a flood of potential illness. Each comes with its only struggles and cost, and can linger making the everyday difficult, and if given enough time, impossible. ​

Rust

Pipes that are continually exposed to water can corrode and rust may end up being consumed in drinking water, or while bathing. This can lead to skin disorders like acne and iron toxicity which can cause permanent health damage.

Mold

Where water sits, mold quickly follows. Mold has no place in one’s health and as a person is exposed, trouble breathing, heightened allergies, and possible respiratory infection can take hold. This along with more serious health repercussions like brain fog. ​

Bugs

Stagnant water beckons bugs to breed. If you refuse water damage restoration, you will be paid a visit from spiders, ticks, fleas, beetles and more. All who will gladly make a home and make your life miserable in the process. ​

Structural Damage

Water is welcomed in faucets, showers and tubs, but anywhere else and you could be looking at serious damage. Ignored water damage can lead to the need for contractors, electricians and other professionals to remedy the situation or in the worst case, you could have to leave your home for good. ​

Electrical Damage and Collapsing Drywall

Dry wall is very porous and will swell when exposed to water. This can lead to unsightly ceilings and walls that bulge as they become brittle. What’s worse is that behind the drywall is a network of wiring and insulation. Risk of electrical shorts, fire, and mold increase as water sits, looking for weak points. ​

Rotten Carpets and Warped Floorboards

When water seeps into a carpet, it is absorbed, though only temporarily as with time, it wears down the fabric, working into the padding beneath. This padding along with the carpet will mold, imposing health risks while also laying the groundwork for damage to the floorboards underneath. These will warp as water comprises their integrity. Without intervention, the carpet will be the least of the worries as even when it's ripped up, the floor will be structurally unsound and a water damage rebuild will be needed. 

Your Home Value Will Depreciate

Nobody wants to live in a musty house and if you ever want to sell your home, chances are water damage will ding you. From bulging drywall, to a leaky roof, homebuyers will be out the door from the first musty whiff. Even if they have the stomach to stick around, you can expect the offer to come in low. 

Insurance companies are aware of the added costs and lower value of a home when water damage isn't treated which is why waiting too long to seek professional water damage restoration services can have your claim denied. 

There’s no reason to celebrate water damage, but avoiding it all together can lead to added costs, health issues, and a loss of security. Don’t let these risks happen to you, get help from the experts at Cleanbright Surface Restoration. We have been helping homeowners in Albany for 15+ years offering professional water damage restoration, mold remediation, and rebuild services that are affordable and effective. Our team is available 24/7 so give us a call, 518-608-6242 or contact us, today!

​