Water damage can affect many parts of your home. The effects can reach from the floors, to ceiling, to possessions, and even the air you breathe. Below are eight different parts of homes that are commonly affected by water damage. If this ever happens to you, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at Design Builders in the North Las Vegas area for water damage cleanup help.
Drywall And Wallboard
Drywall and wallboard are especially vulnerable to water damage because of how porous they are. They essentially act like a sponge and suck up a large amount of moisture. This can cause them to become very fragile. On top of that, they may still remain contaminated with water and mold damage if the cleanup process is not done correctly since they can hold so much water.
Laminated Wood And Particle Board
Laminated wood and particle board have a tendency to separate and weaken after getting wet. In many cases, they will need to be replaced after undergoing water damage.
Insulation
Foam sheets of insulation only need to be hosed off and dried, but muddy fiberglass batts should be thrown out. Cellulose insulation, made of blown-in treated paper, will also need to be removed and replaced.
Wood Studs And Framing
Typically your wood studs and framing don’t need to be replaced after a flood although they should be hosed off and dried. Muddy fiberglass batts and cellulose insulation, however, may need to be replaced.
Appliances
Many appliances are simply not built to handle the effects of a flood. A flood may cause them to short out, stop working, or even release dangerous and explosive gases into the air. You should have your appliances inspected by a professional after a flood to make sure they are still in good working order and safe to use.
HVAC Systems
Water damage in HVAC systems can lead to serious problems. For one, it may damage its internal electrical systems and douse pilot lights. Also, if the floodwater is dirty, it may leave mud and debris in your air ducts requiring them to be professional cleaned. Finally, if water damage goes unchecked in HVAC systems for too long, the mold may begin to grow spreading spores throughout your home. If this is the case, then the ducts need to be cleaned right away.
Solid Wood
Water damage may cause issues in solid wood like warping and cracking. However, it can usually be completely saved if it is promptly dried out.
Pipes And Wiring
Floods can float or break pipes and strip electrical wiring. Unless you’re sure you know what you’re doing, work with a contractor if you see damage to these items.
All in all, water damage can cause a vast array of problems within a home. Thus, if it happens to you, it is important that you seek help from restoration professionals right away. We at Design Builders in North Las Vegas are one such company here to help with all your water damage cleanup needs.