A licensed water restoration contractor is your best resource when your home is experiencing water damage in order to ensure the water is completely removed, the structure is fully dry, and the restoration process is done with precision and quality. When people experience water damage to their home, they often have a multitude of questions. In an effort to help you find those answers, we at Disaster Services compiled a list of frequently asked questions concerning water damage.
Q: How Do I Tell when Water Gets Under Kitchen Cabinets?
Appliances and under the sink are some of the most likely areas for water damage. Periodically inspect under the sink, removing the clutter to see the full view the bottom floor, pipes, and connections; look for water staining, corrosion, and leaks. Inspect the dishwasher and refrigerator surrounding areas for any water or evidence of a leak. Assess the water lines and hoses to remove any kinks, tighten the connections, look for signs of corrosion on the pipes, water stains, and any links. Check the refrigerator’s drainage pan as well for any mold growth, if some exists, contact a professional.
Q: How Do I Know if there is Water Damage Behind My Shower?
Signs of water damage is usually found around the sinks, toilets, showers, and tubs. Look under the sink and surrounding areas of the toilets, tubs and showers for pipe corrosion, water stains, kinked water lines, secure connections, and obvious leaks as well as signs of mold and mildew growth. Look to the walls and flooring for durability, staining, and other water damaging effects. To help control the humidity levels, avoid mold, and minimize water damage, utilize exhaust fans, open windows when the weather permits and when the bathroom is not in use, keep the door open.
Q: How Can You Tell the Difference Between Mold & Water Damage?
Warped, soft, or discolored walls or cabinets behind the sink are indications that suggest there is a substantial amount of water damage due to a leak from the water source behind the wall. If the effects manifest due to long term exposure, the damage could be more extensive behind the wall and mold could be present. Contact a water damage restoration contractor immediately for repairs before the problem worsens.
Q: How Do You Protect Your House from Water Damage?
There is little that can be done to prevent water damage due from an act of nature or indoor plumbing failures; plumbing failures are the most common reasons why homes experience water damage. Inspect the grounds and structure frequently and perform routine maintenance to reduce the risk of water damage. Have everyone know where the main water shut off valve is and have the learn how to turn it off in the event of an emergency. Periodically look for signs of water damage; staining, corrosion, and leaks around the piping and connections of toilets and water heaters. Keep an eye on the water bill for abnormal increases; suggesting a leak in a concealed area.
Q: How Does Water Damage Affect Your Home?
There are a number of effects a home’s structure can be inflicted with due to water damage, prime examples include the following:
– Sagging and disintegrating drywall.
– Buckled, warped, and rotted wood.
– Peeled or bubbled paint.
– Delamination of carpets; an occurrence when the backing of the carpets separate.
– Outlets and electrical devices shorting out or failing, which can lead to shock or fire risks.
– Mold and mildew growth as well as exposure to bacteria that will harm your health or contribute to decay.
Flood & Water Damage Restoration in Baytown, Pasadena, League City, Pearland, Missouri City, Sugar Land, Cypress, The Woodlands, Spring & Greater Houston, Texas
There will be additional questions answered regarding water damage restoration but if you are experiencing water damage from any source, call Disaster Services for assistance.
