Damage from Water Progresses Over Time

7/4/2022 (Permalink)

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That dripping faucet or small water spot may not seem like a big deal but never underestimate how much damage water can do. In a year, the average household leak can lose up to 10,000 gallons of water.

Water moves quickly and causes destruction to floors, walls, and other soft surfaces in its path. When an issue is addressed right away the damage done is greatly lessened.

Here is a basic timeline of water damage and what you need to know when water intrudes on your space:

In the First 24 Hours
Every household has a one in four chance of experiencing flood damage within 30 years of living in a high-risk area. Knowing what to do the moment you spot water is crucial.

The first 24 to 48 hours after flooding or any other water damage occurs are essential. Some belongings will begin to take on water and its ruinous effects immediately.

Upholstery and furnishings with soft surfaces will become saturated, while wooden structures will swell as they take on moisture. Books and photographs are vulnerable to warping beyond recognition. Additionally, mold will begin to form during this time. The faster action is taken the better the results will be.

At SERVPRO, our mentality and expertise is to “restore vs. replace” so that we can protect your most precious items and save you money at the same time. If any damaged items can not be restored, we will communicate with you and handle removal as needed in order to continue drying out the rest of your home and materials.

Within the First Week
After the first day, damage from moisture continues to progress further quickly. Mold spreads like a fire in an environment with excessive moisture, and the deeper it sets in, the more damage the home’s structure receives.

Wood surfaces and other porous items including walls will continually become compromised as metal surfaces will corrode.

After One Week
Allowing moisture to sit for any length of time should be avoided as much as possible as the effects could be total destruction. The more time that passes the more cost, effort, and risks increase.