Water Damages: What it Means and How Quickly it Spreads | SERVPRO® of Montgomery

5/23/2022 (Permalink)

“There is no need to stress when water damage comes your way. SERVPRO® of Montgomery is Here to help®!”

You may have heard us say, “SERVPRO® can handle all your water restoration needs!” While that is true, what does water damage mean? Better yet, how long does it take for water damage to occur? How can you best prevent water from causing costly damage to your home or business? 

What is Water Damage? 

Water damage is caused by a water intrusion that attacks a material or surface, saturating everything in its path. Natural flooding, leaky roofs, burst pipes, broken dishwashers, and ruptured water heaters are potential causes of water spewing into your home.

Even a seemingly harmless leak can be problematic and costly. Water damage can absorb materials, rust steel, and rot wood. Leaks can damage drywall, insulation, flooring, carpets, and hardwood. Flooding can also cause structural damage to your building and the longer water sits, the more likely it can result in microbial growth. That is why the extraction process must begin immediately to prevent further damage.

How Long Does It Take for Water Damage to Occur? 

Water can cause destruction instantly. As a leak or flood spreads, it will soak everything in its vicinity. Personal belongings can immediately bulge and warp beyond repair. Soft furnishings and upholstery will soak through, and walls and floors will begin to absorb the water. Drywall, furniture, wooden doors, and window frames can swell. Plus, paint or wallpaper can peel or blister, impacting electrical systems. Check out these timelines listed below, showing just how quickly water can cause damage to your home. 

Within the First Day:

Within the first 24 hours of a leak or flood, microbial growth development, damage to flooring, walls, electrics, and structural issues can occur. Water spreads rapidly through everything it touches.

Within the First Week: 

Water damage is developing further. Microbial growth can spread rapidly throughout your home or business, which can cause health effects. Damage to wood surfaces and walls intensifies, and metal surfaces start corroding.  

More Than a Week: 

Wood surfaces begin to rot. Prolonged water exposure can completely ruin drywall, carpets, and soft furnishings. Chances of microbial growth being in your environment have skyrocketed. 

If you leave water damage for more than a week, the time, costs, and effort involved in any restoration work increase significantly. Restoration and repairs should start within 24-48 hours from the incident to reduce the spread of microbial growth and the risk of severe structural damage. 

How Long Does It Take Dry? 

Depending on the level of water damage, it could take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to dry out the home and make the required repairs. SERVPRO® skilled technicians are trained to know which steps are necessary to complete the restoration process.

Remember that water damage is not always visible to the naked eye. Water can soak through the bottom of materials where you cannot see them. What you cannot see can still hurt you, and dry to the eye does not mean “dry.” SERVPRO® uses specialized equipment and moisture readers to gauge moisture levels. This ensures your home or business can be fully restored to its original state. 

What Steps Should You Take Once Water Has Spread? 

On you discover a leaking water source inside your home or business, it is crucial to immediately shut off the source inside your home or business. Call a plumber if necessary. 

It is important to remember to shut off the electricity if the water is near power outlets or cords. Electricity can be hazardous when combined with water. If the breaker box is in a dry location, turn off the electricity. If it is wet or you must stand in water to access it, call your utility company to request they turn it off. Water is a conductor, and electricity can travel through it quickly, increasing the risk of severe shock or even death. 

Call your restoration specialists at SERVPRO® of Montgomery immediately to prevent further damage to your home or business.   

Call your insurance company and notify your agent of the water loss. SERVPRO® of Montgomery will work closely with your insurance company to restore your home to make it “Like it never even happened.” 

How Can You Prevent Water Damages? 

• Inspect your roof twice a year or after a storm 
• Clear your gutters at least once a year 
• Keep pipes covered during cold snaps
• Routinely check your appliances to make sure they are in good standing 

Being ready means preparing for the unknown. Of course, we hope you never find yourself needing our services. However, should a disaster strike, we want you to know we are Here to help®. 

When water damage occurs to your home or business, please do not wait to repair it! Call SERVPRO® of Montgomery at 334.284.1612 for all your water restoration needs!