What Long Term Effects can Come From Water Damage?
After all of the flooding that took place over the past few weeks it is important to understand the dangers that come long term from water damage. As we have been asked about long term effects frequently by individuals who have experienced flooding, we felt it necessary to write a little about the effects and how you can mitigate the risk of further damage. So, what kind of long-term effects does water damage cause? Let’s go through a few!
Long-Term Effects on Your Home
When a flood does occur in your home, it usually does so in the basement. When water breaches protective barriers and enters into domains it should not, your home’s fixtures can become waterlogged and long-term damage if not dealt with right away is very likely. Flood waters can seep into your carpets and flooring, damage furniture, and get deep into your walls that can lead to issues of mould growth. Water, and even sewage if a backup has taken place, can turn a once beautiful basement into a literal cesspool.
Mould – The most obvious long-term effect that flooding can have on your home is the creation of mould. Even though you think everything has been cleaned up, it is necessary to remove absolutely everything which could have water damage. Not doing so can lead to the rapid growth of moulds in various areas in your home. Mould can cause many different negative health effects on the individuals who live within the parameters. This can include things like respiratory problems, allergic reactions, or various infections.
Release of Dangerous Toxins – Another issue that can arise in the aftermath of a flood clean-up is the release of dangerous toxins that can lead to infection or other issues. If you have had sewage backup in your home this can be a very serious concern. Not having removed everything touched by sewer water can leave bacteria and other microbes which can lead to some pretty unsavoury issues. In older homes, other things such as lead, or asbestos can also be released into the atmosphere which can have very serious long-term consequences.
Mental Health – Studies done in 2018 in Eastern Canada lead to some very interesting results. After some significant flooding through the Windsor-Essex corridor, the university of Waterloo ran their studies. The findings showed that in more than half of individuals that had experienced flooding within their homes in the past, have significant levels of increased stress and anxiety every time there is rain in the forecast. It was also discovered that 7 days of work on average was missed from flood victims in order to deal with the objective situation and their mental health in the following days.
There are many different ways water can cause damage in your home. But it is vital to have it cleaned as soon as possible to minimize the possibility of the long-term effects of flood damage. emergency 1 Property Rescue is always available to help your through your personal emergency. Contact us to find out how we can help!
The Restorer
If you would like to inquire about booking an inspection of your previously flooded space or to find out more about this time relevant service contact Neil at neil@emergency1.ca or 204-727.help(4357) today!