Do you have water damage or flooding? Let SERVPRO of CedarMill/Oak Hills guide you through your water-related issues.

12/2/2019 (Permalink)

Do you have water damage or flooding? Let SERVPRO of CedarMill/Oak Hills guide you through your water-related issues.

Water damage is not something any homeowner wants to go through, but with the rate of flooding continuing to rise, it has become something that is necessary to prepare for.

Because a flood fully saturates a home in most cases and the economic impact of flooding is on the rise, the home damage they cause can be severe and costly. Therefore, it is recommended that homeowners understand the dangers of flooding so they are able to be on guard.

<h3flooding-can-damage-a-home">Ways Flooding Can Damage a Home

Foundational Damage. As the soil below the floodwaters becomes saturated, the very ground the home is built on can become unsteady. This can cause foundational cracks, uneven flooring and structural shifting that can become a large problem.

Drywall Damage and Mold. Drywall can grow soft and crumble when wet, but that is not the main issue. Mold can quickly begin to grow within soaked drywall, leading to adverse health effects and damage to the structure of the home. Even if drywall maintains its structure, it should be replaced after becoming wet.

Insulation Saturation. Unless your home is built with specialty insulation throughout, the chances are high that is the type that can absorb moisture and become saturated. Soaked insulation must be replaced due to the dangers of mold.

Temporary Frame Swelling. In light of all the damages, there is good news about a home’s frame. Because the frame is typically built with pure lumber, there are usually no lasting effects on the home once the temporary swelling settles down. While precautions must be taken against mold, frames will typically remain structurally sound.

Appliance Ruining. Appliances that require heat and cold retention typically contain insulation, which can become oversaturated during a flood, requiring replacement to prevent mold growth. Not every appliance type utilizes insulation, however, so a professional can evaluate your specific situation and advise you to what is safe.

Furniture Damage. Any soft furniture such as couches, chairs and mattresses can absorb a high amount of water and are considered a sanitation risk after a flood. However, furniture made out of plastic, wood or other non-porous material is generally safe to use as long as it is properly cleaned.

If your home has been affected by a flood, we’ll be here to help you! Give us a call ²⁴⁄₇ to learn about our certified flood restoration process.