4 Common Types Of Damage And Complications After A Flood
Posted on: 19 April 2023
Floods are incredibly common, and any home may experience some kind of flooding from overflowing rivers, poor drainage, rising groundwater, and burst pipes. Floods can be terrifying and stressful, but they can also cause a lot of damage and complications even after the water recedes. If you would like to know more, check out these four common types of damage and complications after a flood.
1. Water Damage
Naturally, floods can cause water damage. Water may deteriorate items, causing them to decay or rot. Some materials are more prone to issues. Porous materials like carpet and drywall absorb a lot of water fast. They are hard to fully dry and clean because the water and contaminants sink deep into the material.
If you move fast, you may be able to remove, clean, and dry the carpet, but some materials, like drywall, may need restoration. Wood is also prone to water damage as it can absorb and swell when exposed to water. When dried out, the wood may become brittle or crack.
2. Mold
Besides reducing water damage, it's important to work fast to prevent mold. Mold spores are constantly floating through the air, but they only cause problems when they land on moist surfaces and start to grow. The faster you dry the water, the lower the risk of mold.
If mold does develop, you may be able to clean it off solid surfaces like tile. However, you should replace porous materials with mold. If left ignored, mold can grow and cause irritation, especially to those with allergies, asthma, or COPD.
3. Standing Water
Even after the water drains, there may be some standing water, which is dangerous for many reasons. First, if you step in standing water that is exposed to electrical wiring, you could get electrocuted. Standing water is also prone to attracting pests and it further promotes mold growth.
Flood water often contains contaminants or even human waste. For this reason, standing water may contain diseases, bacteria, and a host of other hazards. If you physically touch the standing water, make sure to clean your skin thoroughly.
4. Electrical Damage
Water and electricity don't play well together. For this reason, the flood water may have caused minor or extensive electrical damage. Like standing water, this may increase the risk of electrocution. However, it may also increase the risk of a fire. If you turn on the power without fixing the damage, sparks could trigger a fire, especially inside drywalls with insulation.
Floods cause major issues, and it's important to act fast. Property damage restoration can get rid of damaged materials and mold. If you would like to know more, contact a damage contractor today.
Contact a company like Blackwell Restoration to learn more.
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