The Long-Term Impact of Water Damage

Water damage can cause significant destruction in both the short and long term. While some issues like pooling water are immediately obvious, the hidden, long-lasting effects can be even more dangerous. If not addressed promptly, water damage can lead to structural issues, mold growth, and more. Below, we explore the long-term impact of water damage and how ServiceMaster Restoration by Complete can help you avoid costly problems.

The Long-Term Effects of Water Damage

1. Structural Damage

Water can deeply penetrate the materials that make up your property, weakening foundations, walls, and floors. Over time, this leads to serious structural issues that may make your building unsafe. Wood rots, metal rusts, and drywall crumbles or warps. Without timely intervention, these issues become costly and dangerous to repair.

2. Mold Growth

One of the most significant long-term threats of untreated water damage is mold growth. Mold thrives in damp environments and can develop within 24 to 48 hours. This growth can pose serious health risks, such as respiratory issues and allergies. If mold is left unchecked, it can spread throughout your property, requiring extensive remediation to eliminate.

3. Electrical and Plumbing Damage

Water damage can affect electrical wiring and systems, leading to short circuits, malfunctioning appliances, or even fire hazards. Water can also corrode plumbing systems, resulting in more leaks or even burst pipes if left unaddressed. These hidden damages can be costly and difficult to repair.

4. Decreased Property Value

Properties with untreated water damage lose value. Potential buyers are often wary of homes or businesses with a history of water damage due to concerns about hidden problems like mold, structural issues, or electrical damage. Even after repairs, it can be challenging to regain the property’s original value without detailed documentation proving the issues were fully resolved.

5. Cosmetic Damage

Prolonged water exposure causes unsightly cosmetic damage, such as stains, warping, and the deterioration of flooring, drywall, and ceilings. This not only affects the aesthetics of your property but also indicates deeper underlying issues.

How ServiceMaster Restoration by Complete Can Help

1. Immediate Water Removal

ServiceMaster Restoration by Complete offers fast, professional water extraction to limit the spread of damage. Swift water removal prevents further saturation and helps mitigate long-term consequences like structural weakening and mold growth.

2. Drying and Dehumidification

Our team uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your property is fully dried and dehumidified. Industrial-strength dehumidifiers help eliminate excess moisture, preventing the conditions that lead to mold and mildew growth.

3. Comprehensive Inspection

Our restoration experts thoroughly inspect your property for any hidden damage that may not be visible. This includes moisture detection in walls, floors, and ceilings, which is critical in preventing long-term damage.

4. Repairs and Restoration

Beyond water extraction, ServiceMaster Restoration by Complete handles repairs to damaged materials, restoring your property to its original condition. This includes fixing structural elements, repairing drywall, and restoring flooring, ensuring your space is both safe and functional.

5. Mold Remediation

If mold has developed due to the water damage, our team provides professional mold remediation services. We contain the affected area, remove the mold, and treat the space to prevent future growth, ensuring the safety and health of your property.

Why Hire ServiceMaster Restoration by Complete?

1. Expertise and Experience

Our team has years of experience managing water damage scenarios and uses advanced techniques to ensure your property is fully restored.

2. Advanced Equipment

We utilize the latest technology in water extraction, drying, and mold remediation, ensuring a thorough and efficient restoration process.

3. Insurance Claims Assistance

Dealing with insurance claims can add stress to an already challenging situation. We assist with the documentation process, helping you file insurance claims and ensuring the process is as smooth as possible.

Water damage can have severe long-term effects if not handled quickly and professionally. From structural weakening to mold growth, the damage can be costly and difficult to manage without professional help. ServiceMaster Restoration by Complete offers fast, reliable restoration services to protect your property from the lasting impact of water damage.