Water damage can strike unexpectedly and cause significant harm to homes and properties. As a leading emergency restoration service, Allied Emergency Services is dedicated to assisting clients in dealing with water damage issues promptly and efficiently. In this blog post, we’ll explore the major causes of water damage and the primary and secondary types of damage it can inflict.
Natural “Acts of God”
a. Flooding
b. Heavy rains
c. Hurricanes
d. Mudslides
Accidents and Negligence
a. Lawn sprinkler systems
b. Sink overflows
Defective Appliances and Fixtures
a. Clothes washer
b. Hot water heaters
c. Showers and bathtubs
d. Toilets
Faulty Construction
a. Leaky roofs/windows
b. Nails through water pipes
c. Poor drainage – due to new construction
Fire Control/Suppression Systems
Frozen Pipes
- Due to abnormally cold weather conditions
High Humidity
- Above 60% RH for prolonged periods
Willful Misconduct and Vandalism
Primary and Secondary Water Damage
Water damage is categorized into two types, primary and secondary damage.
Primary Damage
This damage occurs directly due to the flowing water that comes into contact with surfaces and contents within the affected area.
Examples of primary damage include:
- Antique furniture staining carpets and flooring within minutes
- Draperies and upholstery absorbing moisture and developing water stains/rings
- Hardwood floors cupping/crowning or buckling within 24 hours
- Particleboard or plywood subflooring buckling, delaminating, or swelling
Secondary Damage
Secondary damage is caused when the relative humidity (RH) conditions are sustained above 60% RH for a prolonged period.
There are two forms of Secondary Damage:
Hygroscopic Damage
This damage occurs in materials that readily take up and absorb water and water vapor from the air mass until they reach equilibrium.
Examples include:
- Wood, paper, fabrics, and hardwood furniture, which continue to absorb vapor or moisture until they buckle, deform, delaminate, or swell.
Fungal Damage
Fungi and bacteria spores can germinate and multiply in and on organic materials when conditions are above 60% RH for prolonged periods.
In such environments:
- Odors are enhanced
- Health-related problems for occupants become evident
- Indoor air quality degrades rapidly, and bacteria, fungi, and viruses become hyperactive.
Water damage can originate from various sources, and its effects can be devastating. Understanding the causes and types of water damage is crucial for prompt and effective restoration. At Allied Emergency Services, we are committed to helping clients mitigate water damage and restore their properties.
Facing water damage? Don’t wait! Contact Allied Emergency Services now for prompt and expert water damage restoration. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you in your time of need. Protect your property and restore it to its former glory. Act now and let us handle the restoration process with efficiency and care. Don’t let water damage take a toll on your home – reach out to us today!
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