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Author:
Leo Nov

Once a building has been exposed to a large volume of water, it becomes extremely hazardous as water causes both health and structural risks.

Water Damage Related Health Hazards and Risks

Dampness and humidity promote the growth of moisture-related mold and mildew that can lead to toxic, mold-related reactions such as immune disorders, pathogenic disease and cancer. Allergic reactions consist of painful headaches, disorientation and dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, chronic asthma, rashes and open sores, and chronic fatigue.

Be aware that floodwaters may also be contaminated with sewage and waste. These are fertile breeding ground for disease carrying termites and insect infestation.

Water Related Structural Hazards and Risks

Water saturation affects and damages structures in a few ways.

Direct damage to materials leading to structural instability:

Wallboard disintegrates Structural integrity of concrete is undermined Support columns resting in waterlogged soil slowly twist and tilt Wood swells, warps, and rots Stairs, floors, and roofs may collapse bulging ceilings, indicating trapped water Electrical systems can short out, malfunction, and cause fires or shock.

Leaking LP gas (also known as natural gas) can cause fire or gas poisoning.

Household possessions and interior design can be damaged as follows:

Mud and silt get possessions and valuables dirty Paint and wall coverings peel off Floor tiles are lifted Panels wrap Carpets stain and rot Furnishings such as textiles and furniture stain Books, photographs, paintings become extremely fragile Property value decreases after being wet. Most insulation is ineffective, but it will continue to hold and create high moisture conditions which will damage metal, masonry, and wood.

About the author:

The author is the editorial director of RestorationSOS™, a leading restoration services provider for water and fire damages. Visit http://restorationsos.com for articles, tips, and more info

| Article Keywords: Water Damage

A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to Water Damage... Water-Flood Damage Information and Tips Water and Flood Damage Information For Your Property Water damages requires immediate attention to minimize further losses. In case a water damage occurs in your home or property try to locate the problem. By doing so you can help prevent further damages. Examples are turning off the water line for faucet,washing machine or dishwasher.Call a plumber to report a leak for service and report the damage to your Insurance Company. Your insurance adjusters will guide you through the process and will give you advices on what to do. Then move Items in advance such as furnitures, boxes, clothes, beds, etc. to a room which is unaffected. The basic idea here is to Move and Protect your personal belongings and documents. Standing water and wet materials are a breeding ground for microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria, and mold. "Allow molds to grow on home and or a building, materials that are soaked wet for more than 24 hours, and in "48 hours of wetness, the deadly toxic mold Stachybotrys can begin growing in the damaged areas." This is a fact and documented by mold experts. Water Damage Tips *Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping the area or using a wet/dry vacuum. *Wipe as much excess water from wood furniture as you can and remove tabletop lamps and other items from the furniture. *Turn the air conditioning on for maximum drying in the summer and open the windows in the winter to release trapped for an improved indoor air quality. *Remove any artwork and paintings from the walls if affected. *Remove any area rugs from the floor and hang to dry outside or inside. *Remove wet upholstery cushions from the frame and prop them up to dry immediately. *Place plastic or aluminum foil under any furniture legs that are not plastic...