Any damage to a home can be frustrating, and doubly so if the damage is caused by water. This is because water damage can easily lead to mold. Recent studies have shown that mold growth in homes can cause health problems in many people, especially those with compromised immune systems. Here are a few tips on how to prevent water damage from occurring, and what to do after it does. One option? Home renovation.
Fixing Water Damage: The Best Treatment Is Prevention.
Water damage can occur in several ways. A water pipe can burst in a wall or ceiling. The evidence of the broken or leaking pipe will present itself as a moldy smell, or a discoloration forming on the wall or ceiling. There may have been a natural disaster such as flooding. Unfortunately, water damage may have occurred in your home before you moved in. This is why it is crucial for homeowners to recognize the signs of water damage.
What Does Water Damage Do to the Structure of a Home?
Water damage does just that, cause damage to possibly the floor boards, carpet, walls, and drywall. Water damage repair needs to be performed quickly for the damage to be minimized. The longer the moisture sits, the higher the chances of mold growth. Homeowners who want to fix water damage as soon as possible should not hesitate to inform their home insurance company about the damage.
Mold Remediation Is Required to Keep Occupants Healthy.
Homes with mold can contribute to health problems in residents. In fact, the Mayo Clinic discovered about 93% of cases of chronic sinus infection are caused by mold. Yet mold remediation doesn’t need to be a frightening prospect. In many cases, the homeowners can take steps to remove the offending mold themselves.
Removing mold from an area isn’t complicated. The main two concerns are making sure the people removing the mold are practicing proper safety, and that the mold is not removed in such a way that cross -contamination occurs. The website “Mold Man USA” recommends four steps for homeowners who want to do the work themselves. These are safety, assessment, contamination control, source removal, and moisture removal.
Home Renovation After Water Damage.
Remodeling magazine ran a study that found the average kitchen renovation will recoup about 80% of its cost. Bathrooms fair a little better, with a return on investment of 86% or so. Because water damage can destroy floors, drywall, and furniture, a little home renovation isn’t as odd as it sounds. The home may already be experiencing some upheaval from removing the damaged materials. Taking a little extra time to rebuild in a new style could be a case of making the best of a situation.
Water damage is a terrible thing. However, in the process of fixing water damage and possibly mold remediation, there is room to make the best of things. Making a few alterations to the rebuilding of the clean up plan could be beneficial. A minor home renovation that fixes what caused the buildup of the excess moisture that lead to mold growth could be a good idea. Whichever course a homeowner decides to take, experts agree that water damage needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
