When water damage is not cleaned up quickly, it can lead to more serious problems and further damage. In fact, we at Rumsey Construction know there are two major risks that can result from prolonged water damage in your Columbia, SC home.
- Structural Damage
Walls, ceilings, floors, and foundation all make up the basic structure of a home. While the materials that make up these components are sturdy and intended to last, they are still susceptible to the destructive effects of water damage. The structural integrity of wood, sheetrock, insulation, sub flooring, drywall, cement, padding, and carpet is greatly compromised when water is present for extended amounts of time. Because these materials are porous, they will absorb all the moisture that is available to them until they become fully saturated. This absorption will lead to expansion; which will then cause warping, weakening, rotting, cracking, and deterioration. If these materials, which make up the structural components of your home, are weakened by water damage, the very integrity of your home is at risk. The longer the water is allowed to sit following water damage, the more damage these structural materials will sustain.
- Mold
Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours after water damage has occurred. Mold requires a food source, moisture, and time in order to grow. Since our homes are made up of prime food sources for mold (i.e. wood, drywall, sheetrock, etc), all it takes is for a little water leak, or a major water disaster, for mold to grow. If you allow the water to stay, or put off extraction and drying, mold will have the time it needs to grow and turn into a big problem. Mold is naturally occurring both indoors and outside, but when mold is found in the home it can pose some serious health risks. Since mold reproduces through microscopic spores that travel through the air that are easily inhaled by all those who are exposed to it, it can cause some serious respiratory symptoms. Coughing, sneezing, headaches, rashes, irritation to the eyes, runny nose, congestion, sore throat, fatigue, and skin irritation are just some of the side effects of mold exposure. For those with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, the elderly, and infants, these symptoms are worsened and can include shortness of breath, allergic reactions, and sinus infections. These serious health effects make mold a huge risk anytime there is water damage, so cleanup, drying and restoration need to occur as quickly as possible to halt mold growth.
Professional Water Damage Cleanup In Columbia, SC
The best way to prevent structural damage and prevent mold from becoming a serious problem following water damage is to get the water extracted and dried as quickly as possible. Immediate action is required to minimize the amount of damage to your property. The technicians at Rumsey Construction and Restoration use advanced technology, powerful tools, and industry-leading water damage cleanup methods to make sure all moisture is removed, cleaned, and repaired the right way, and the best way. With our employees available 24/7 to Columbia, SC and surrounding areas, we are ready to take care of your water damage as soon as it occurs. Let our experts handle all your water damage needs.
