Hazards Of Water Damage

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Water damage is an annoyance that no one likes to deal with. Most people assume the problem is gone when the water is gone, however this can be just the beginning of water damage hazards. The introduction of water to a building can lead to both health risks as well as structural damage to a building. If an area of a home or business is exposed to moisture it is important to call a professional to look for signs of mold and mildew growth as well as potential structural damage.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew can begin to grow and expand rapidly in areas that have been exposed to water. Whether it is a flood, a small leak, or even just a damp area such as a basement, mold and mildew can begin to take root in your home or building. Besides looking disgusting mold can pose serious health risks to people exposed to the area. Even if the mold is not physically touched it can still be very harmful to an individual. This is because mold spores spread and travel through the air, which in return is exposed to skin and is taken into the body through the process of breathing. Potential hazards of coming into contact with mold and mildew include skin irritation, headache, fatigue, allergic reaction, asthma, bleeding lungs, and has been linked to some forms of cancer. These health hazards can be immediate within a person or can set in over time.

In many cases businesses, schools and homes have to be evacuated until mold removal is taken care of because of health risks liabilities. Don't let your building be a victim of mold and mildew invasion. If you feel your building may be at risk of mold growth, or if your building already has mold growth it is important to call a professional to take care of it as soon as possible.

Structural Damage

Hazards of water invasion can also lead to structural damages of a building. Water and moisture causes wood to expand and warp over time, which in turn causes weakening of the building's foundation. Exposure to water can also cause wood to rot and decay which is a significant problem when considering the stability of a building. Signs of these problems may include squeaky floors, soft wood, exposure of nails in between boards and warped boards. Leaving these problems unresolved can lead to eventual collapse and destruction of a building. It is important to notice these hazards early on so that they can be fixed before problems become more dangerous and more costly.

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