Water damage is an adverse issue that can adversely affect your property. This universally frustrating situation can cause problems like mold growth, structural damage, and health hazards for you and your family. It can also significantly affect your home’s value and be costly to repair if you address the conflict immediately.
While you should call a professional restoration company to handle the water damage at home, you must also do your part and act quickly to prevent further injury. Remember that you only have one to three days before things can escalate into worse situations.
If you want to increase your chances of saving your belongings, this article will explore the timeline of how water can damage your home. We’ll also help you determine when to call a reliable restoration company.
What Happens During the First Six to Eight Hours?
Water damage starts with leaky pipes or standing water, affecting porous materials, furniture, and structural elements. The first 6-8 hours are crucial for minimal-cost restoration. However, the window is narrower due to toxicity if it’s flooded or black water. Also, you may need to contact plumbers to repair or replace damaged pipes.
You can minimize damage and save money by immediately drying and removing water. Call an emergency water damage team for immediate inspection and repairs if you find water in unusual places.
Can I Reverse the Damage during the First 24 Hours?
While you may not notice the water damage symptoms for the first six to eight hours, they can become more apparent on the first day. Even small leaks can create a significant amount of water at this time. You can immediately protect the walls, slabs, and ceilings by calling a repair team or removing excess water.
What Happens If I Neglect the Damage between 24 to 72 Hours?
Mold growth will rapidly increase three days after water damage occurs, and structural elements will worsen. Leaks will become significant, with a strong odor and potential allergies and cough problems, especially in those with sensitive respiratory systems. Also, immediately notify your insurance company and hire a leading water damage company to bill them directly. Otherwise, they’ll deny your claims.
What Happens After Three Days?
After three days of water damage, the situation will worsen significantly, and it becomes complex to reverse the damage. While removing and drying any persistent water is essential, you should avoid DIY attempts after three days to prevent further damage and the loss of warranties and insurance.
What Happens After a Week?
If you leave your site unattended for a week, it could endanger your health. Mold will spread rapidly, the stench will become unbearable, and people might start getting sick after seven days. If black mold and contaminated water are present, your life could be at risk.
Also, some damage may be irreparable after a week, meaning you must replace it entirely. For example, you can’t salvage severely damaged flooring and walls with basic repairs. You can get the best service by hiring plumbers specializing in restoration, repair, and replacement. Remember that the longer you wait to address the water damage, the more expensive it will be.
What Are the Warning Signs That I Need Timely Water Damage Repair?
No home deserves to suffer from water damage because of the costly consequences. However, you must know the red flags to increase your chances of saving your property. The symptoms include mold growth, unpleasant smells, standing water, leaks in the foundation, and peeling walls. Also, immediately call a plumber whenever you detect anything unusual on your property.
Final Thoughts
Not promptly addressing water damage in your house can cause severe health issues, costly structural injuries, and possibly irreparable damages. You can avoid these problems by knowing the warning signs, eliminating water, and calling a professional restoration company.
If your home needs professional water damage restoration in Arlington, Texas, contact Restoration Solutions! Whether from a roof leak or a burst pipe, we’ll help you prevent further property damage with our quality services. Call us now!
