Water Damage Restoration 101: Duration and Effects

Water damage is a serious problem that can occur in both residential and commercial properties. It is important to understand the duration and effects of water damage so that you can take steps to mitigate the damage and prevent future problems.

Duration of Water Damage

The duration of water damage can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the type of water involved. Clean water, such as from a broken pipe or overflowing toilet, can cause damage within a few hours. Dirty water, such as from a sewage backup or flood, can cause damage within minutes.

Effects of Water Damage

Water damage can cause a variety of problems, including:

Structural damage: Water can damage the structure of a building, including the walls, floors, and ceiling.
Mold and mildew: Water damage can create a perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow.
Electrical hazards: Water can damage electrical wiring, creating a risk of fire or electrocution.
Health hazards: Water damage can create a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful microorganisms that can cause health problems.

Will Water Damage Go Away?

In some cases, water damage can go away on its own. However, this is only likely to happen if the damage is minor and the water is clean. In most cases, water damage will require professional restoration services.

Professional Water Damage Restoration

If your property has been damaged by water, it is important to contact a professional water damage restoration company. These companies have the experience and expertise to restore your property to its pre-damage condition.

Water damage restoration typically involves the following steps:

Water extraction: The first step is to remove the standing water from the property.
Drying: The next step is to dry the property to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Cleaning: The property must then be cleaned to remove any remaining dirt or debris.
Restoration: Finally, the property must be restored to its pre-damage condition.

Water damage restoration can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, it is important to have the damage restored professionally to prevent further problems.