What Happens When Water Damage Is Left Untreated?

2/15/2018 (Permalink)

Left untreated for any length of time, water damage will continue to create a multitude of damages

What Happens When Water Damage is Left Untreated? Following is a timeline detailing why you don't wan't to hesitate to make that call: 

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and costs increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of The East End

SERVPRO of The East End specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is IICRC trained and certified in property damage restoration. From the initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge, experience, equipment and expertise to restore your property to 'Like it never even happened'.