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The Hidden Dangers of Untreated Water Damage

Eric Bullard • 20 September 2022
Water Damage Restoration in Tucson, AZ

Untreated water damage can cause more problems than you might anticipate. What may seem to be a typical household leak can turn into severe structural damage if left unattended. While many homeowners only see the immediately apparent damage of a flood or leak, there's much more lurking just beneath the surface.


If your home suffers from water damage, count on water damage restoration by Steam Smart Pro in Tucson, AZ. Call us today at 520-397-3770 to schedule your service! In the meantime, here are common signs that your water damage is more extensive than it appears:


Signs of Water Damage

Avoiding the lasting effects of untreated water damage starts with knowing the warning signs. Keep an eye out for:


  • Discolored Ceiling and Walls - If you spot discoloration on your ceiling or walls, this indicates a leak, even if you don't see any water. You may notice either brown spots or patches of water stains. Condensation, a build-up of water, or a leak can cause these.


  • Broken or Cracked Drywall - Damaged drywall only needs a small amount of moisture to start cracking and crumbling. Broken, brittle, or peeling drywall suggests you have water damage. Leaving it untreated can continue to damage your walls even further. 


  • Foul-Smelling Odors - A funky or musty odor indicates something is amiss, often because of excess moisture. Some smells are due to the water source itself, while others are bacteria or mold growth the water has encouraged. It is possible to still notice the scent for a short while after treating the water damage, but it should fade if you've fully fixed the problem.


  • Weak Floors - You likely have untreated water damage if you notice your floors have lost their usual strength. Wooden floors, especially, can sponge up moisture and quickly weaken. The water can then spread a greater distance, causing buckling or warping, then broken and decomposed floors. 


What Can Happen With Untreated Water Damage?

You may wonder why it is so important to resolve water damage right away. Water damage is more than a nuisance. It is a health and structural hazard, damaging you physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially. 


1. Severe Structural Damage


Water damage is insidious, bringing with it numerous threats. Mold growth can promote bacteria growth, causing the foundation and stability of a home to weaken. The last thing anyone wants is to compromise the structure of their residence. 


Floods can displace victims and result in thousands of dollars in property damage that could take years to recover and restore. Storm and disaster water contains more harmful elements that can destroy a home's structure and cut through even the most durable materials. A house with untreated water damage could face the risk of collapse.


2. Potential Health Hazards


Your health is at risk when you experience heavy water damage. Dirty water can cause harmful diseases affecting your lungs, kidneys, or brain. Contaminated water can also result in fevers and a weakened immune system, opening the door to worse conditions. Drinking such water results in even worse problems such as inflammation, sores, jaundice, vomiting, scarlet and typhoid fever, cholera, diarrhea, and horrible bacteria.


3. Fast Growth of Mold and Mildew


You can expect rapid mold and mildew growth after untreated water damage, as fungi thrive in those conditions. Mold spores can multiply and spread bacteria rapidly, making it harder to breathe and causing structural damage. 


Health experts often link respiratory disorders to mold growth. The longer the mold is present, the higher the risk. 


Any indication of mold requires immediate removal of debris and quick cleanup. You should also check any vents and systems to see if any mildew is hidden and spreading where you don't see it. Call a professional mold remediation service if you're unsure if you have mold in your home or how to take care of it.


4. Attracting Pests


Unfortunately, many bugs live and thrive in moist environments, often taking advantage of water damage situations. Some potential pest infestations accompanying water damage are:


  • Beetles
  • Carpenter Ants
  • Cockroaches
  • Drain Flies
  • Earwigs
  • Moths
  • Rats and Mice
  • Silverfish


These intruders can be present even if they're hidden from view in walls or under floors. Immediately repair any cracks or holes in your windows or throughout your foundation, sealing them off as entrances. Each of these critters can come with unique problems and can travel throughout your property once inside, so consulting pest control and water damage specialists is wise.


5. Electric Shock Risk


Any water-damaged electrical wiring is very harmful and can spark at any time. These wires can cause pipe leaks and short-outs from oxidization. Never attempt to move or fix moist electrical work yourself to avoid electrocution or electric shock.


Call a licensed and trusted electrician or water damage restoration professional to address this problem. Steam Smart Pro is ready to help you with your water damage issue and understands the stress a situation like this can cause. Don't hesitate to contact us.


Consult a Professional for Your Water Damage

It does not take long for untreated water damage to quickly spiral out of control and destroy your walls and floors, cause bugs to enter your home, and harm the exterior and interior of your property. You require a business that can treat water damage restoration efficiently, quickly, and safely. 


Our technicians and specialists have seen many instances of water damage over the years and have the training, equipment, and extensive knowledge to deal with the aftermath of any case. We stand apart from the competition because of this, and our customer service is unmatched. 


Steam Smart Pro specializes in water damage restoration and can quickly help you restore your home. We understand you want to return to your daily routine as soon as possible, so we operate with top-of-the-line techniques to fix your untreated water damage. Learn how pet stains can be removed by carpet cleaning experts and call us today at 520-397-3770 for a free quote or to schedule a consultation in Tucson, AZ.


Author Bio:

Eric Bullard

The owner of Steam Smart Pro in Tucson, AZ, brings over 20 years of invaluable experience in the field of carpet, tile, and air duct cleaning. With a strong dedication to quality and a deep understanding of effective cleaning techniques, Eric consistently delivers outstanding results to his satisfied residential and commercial clients.

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