The Consequences of Untreated Water Damage in Your Louisville Area Home

Water damage in your home can have a number of causes. It could be due to a plumbing problem, an overflowing bath, or flooding during bad weather. Whatever the cause of the damage, it's important to be aware of the signs and act quickly to stop further damage. By pretending it's not there, it could lead to further damage and cause yet more problems for your home and your family. Here are our top four reasons you shouldn't ignore water damage if you spot it.

Structural Damage

If you don't repair the water damage and it gets worse, it could cause structural damage to your property. In fact, it could already have had structural consequences for your home. Cracks in the walls, warping of trim and flooring, electrical issues, and staining of drywall are common if left to dry without intervention. This can lead to higher costs for repairs in the long run.

Mold and Mildew

Water damage in your home also makes it damp and increases the humidity levels. This can lead to mold growth, which can be expensive to remediate and dangerous to your health. Some strains of mold can begin growing within 24-72 hours and can spread quickly depending on the environmental conditions. Setting fans without property dehumidification can also cause additional damage. Proper intervention by a mitigation company early on can help limit the chances of this occurring.

Odor Issues

You might also notice that water damage in your property leads to musty/sour odors. This is often a sign that mold, mildew, or bacteria is actively growing or present in your home. You might try to cover it up with odor removers, but the only way to get rid of bad smells for good is to fully dry or remove the materials damaged by the water intrusion.

Insurance Claim Denial

Your home insurance can help you cover the costs of damage to your home. However, if you ignore a water damage issue for too long, you could find it a struggle to make a claim. Your insurance provider might not be happy to hear how long you waited to address the issue, and some policies deny any claims with signs of mold or wood rot.