Secondary Water Damage: Black Mold and Other Dangers
6/8/2022 (Permalink)
A professional response is best when you find water, moisture stains, or black mold in your home or in any of the buildings on your property. One of the main reasons for seeking the work of mold and water remediation professionals is to prevent secondary damage and the increased cost of repairs and cleanup that accompany these issues.
Several Forms of Long-Term Damage, Including the Growth of Black Mold
When your Colorado Springs, CO, home and property are affected by flooding or another form of water damage, it’s natural to be primarily concerned about the standing water in and on your property. However, once that standing water is removed, there’s still a lot of work to do.
There’s a high risk of further harm, including the growth of mold, that can lead to lasting concerns and expensive repairs.
Mold Growth
Why is mold, specifically, a problem? These groupings of black, brown, pink, green, and white fungi cause trouble for homeowners in bathrooms, kitchens, around the appliances, and in basements.
- Mold growth smells bad and is unsightly.
- Spores spread quickly and easily, causing more damage in other areas of the home.
- Colonies eat materials, such as wood, fabric, and even cement, causing deterioration throughout your property.
In most cases, the appearance of mold, including black mold, means there is a water or humidity problem. It’s vital that you address that issue as part of your cleanup and treatment.
Electrical Concerns
As water seeps behind the walls, it may affect the electrical system throughout your home. When water gets into the outlets and sockets, serious problems can occur, and there’s a risk to you of getting shocked or electrocuted.
Deterioration of Metal and Wood
Any metal components of your home will begin to corrode or rust because of standing water. This type of additional damage can weaken the structural integrity of your home. When metal fasteners fail, the resulting destruction of your home could be severe. Wood rot presents similar situations when it affects the wooden elements supporting the home.
Harm to Floors and Walls
When water is allowed to sit for more than 24 hours, the floors and walls may weaken, buckle, and become stained. Further trouble can be seen as structures begin to dry and swollen materials show signs of cracking and breaking. Once this destruction takes place, your flooring, walls, cabinets, and other affected structures must be replaced.
Loss of Belongings
In addition to your home itself, you need to worry about the loss of personal belongings. Water and high humidity affect books, artwork, important documents, furnishings, clothing, and everything else in the home. You may need to replace food, medicines, makeup, and emergency storage.
Justification for a Professional Response
SERVPRO professionals are Here to Help and are Faster to Any Size Disaster, so they can tackle flooding and other water issues before you have to deal with secondary damage. Colorado Springs, CO, technicians are equipped with powerful tools, as well as specific training for recognizing the presence and possibility of black mold, so they can take appropriate actions to keep your home safe. These workers have the time and resources necessary to ensure that the initial problems are fully addressed, preventing secondary harm and lasting damage.