What is Water Damage?

We all know that leaks are bad, but what exactly happens when water gets into areas of a house it should never reach? This is referred to as water damage, but many people don’t know enough about it. What is water damage, and how bad can it be?

Three Types of Water Damage

Water damage is designated according to the type of water that is leaking. These include:

1. Clean water: This comes from a sink, hose, or water pipe. It is not necessarily safe to drink but does not pose a health risk on its own.
2. Greywater: This is water that is somewhat dirty, such as water used in a washing machine or sink. It may contain cleaners, soaps, food particles, skin cells, and more. Clean water can convert to greywater if it isn’t treated quickly. Greywater poses a health risk, as it may contain bacteria and other contaminants.
3. Blackwater: Water from sewage systems or septic tanks is considered blackwater and contains human waste. It presents a high health risk due to the presence of bacteria and pathogens that can cause disease or infection.

All types of water damage are serious, but if you have greywater or blackwater leaks in your home, it’s essential to have professionals handle the situation.

The Damage Is Done

What happens when water reaches inside walls and under floors? The first issue is that wood fibres absorb moisture and expand. This can result in severe damage, particularly if the wood is not solid. Prolonged exposure accelerates rot and can leave unpleasant stains.

Carpets and rugs absorb water rapidly, and if the water is not clean, they can become contaminated. Soft furnishings can retain moisture and quickly develop mould and mildew, both of which can cause health problems and may require disposal.

Water is also conductive, so if it reaches electrical wiring within your walls, it can cause short circuits and potentially lead to a house fire.

These issues are just some of the consequences of water damage. To help prevent or address these problems, contact Leak Tracers Direct if you suspect a water leak or notice signs of water damage in your home.