The Dangers of Water Damage & How to Prevent It

Most homeowners and business owners don’t put much thought into the safety of their property—until water damage strikes. Water damage can be devastating, causing costly repairs and even health issues. 

At Stephens Plumbing, we understand the importance of keeping your home or business safe from disaster. In this blog, we’ll discuss the dangers of water damage and how to prevent water damage or keep it from becoming a severe problem.

Structural Damage

One of the single most expensive and devastating effects of water damage is structural damage. If left unchecked, this can cause foundational instability and weaken the structure of a building. In extreme cases, it can even lead to collapse.

Water damage also has the potential to damage walls and floors, leading to costly repairs and lots of hassle in restoring your property to its former glory.

Health Issues

In addition to ruining your property, water damage can also lead to a range of health issues. For example, structural damage is the primary source of mold, which can cause respiratory problems or trigger allergies and other health issues in some people.

Leaks and flooding may also introduce bacteria into the environment, putting you at greater risk of contracting an illness.

Electrical Shock Risk

Did you know that water damage can increase the risk of electrical shock? When exposed to water, wires and other equipment can become electrically charged and cause serious injury or even death.

This is why addressing any water damage quickly is important before it can affect your home’s wiring.

Pests

Another potential problem caused by water damage is an infestation of pests. When exposed to moisture, a property can attract all sorts of bugs, rodents, and other critters. Not only are these creatures unpleasant to have around, but they can also contribute to the spread of disease and cause further structural damage.

Extensive Corrosion

Finally, water damage can cause extensive corrosion to metal fixtures and equipment. This is especially true for items already rusty or exposed to oil or other chemicals. Water damage accelerates the corrosion process, leaving you with costly repairs on your hands.

Now that we’ve discussed the potential dangers of water damage, let’s look at how to prevent it.

Preventative Measures

The first step in preventing water damage is to identify any potential sources of moisture. Look for leaking pipes, faulty appliances, and other areas where water could be present. If standing water is present, it should be cleaned up immediately. 

You can also perform routine maintenance on your property to ensure everything functions correctly. For example, regularly inspecting and cleaning pipes, drains, and other plumbing fixtures can help you spot any problems before they become serious. Also, always check for leaks in places like the roof or basement after heavy rainfall.

It’s also important to be aware of the weather around your property. If a flood warning has been issued, make sure to prepare accordingly. Move any valuable items or furniture to higher ground and consider investing in a sump pump or other waterproofing measures if you haven’t already.

Don’t Risk Water Damage to Your Property: Call Stephens Plumbing

Water damage can have severe and long-lasting consequences for your property, so taking the necessary steps for prevention is important. However, if you are experiencing water damage or suspect that you may have issues in the future, don’t hesitate to call Stephens Plumbing.

Our experienced team is here to help and will provide you with quality services to stop water damage in its tracks. Contact us today for a free estimate and to get started!