What Are The Common Causes Of Water Damage In The Home?

What Can Cause Water Damage?

Pipe Problems
Burst pipes, cracked pipes, or even leaks can all cause serious water damage. Burst pipes are most likely to occur in the winter when pipes are at a greater risk of freezing, but they can happen throughout the year as well. Older homes are particularly susceptible to burst pipes, as these homes are more likely to have pipes with rust and cracks. Tree roots growing in the pipes may also cause a pipe to burst or crack. When a pipe bursts, it can cause sudden flooding and water damage to the floors, walls, nearby appliances, and more. If you have a burst pipe, read Burst Pipes? What You Need To Do.

If a pipe has a minor leak due to cracks or a poor seal, this can also cause water damage. This type of damage tends to develop far more slowly, but it can lead to issues in the flooring, drywall, and more. Areas with slow leaks often also suffer from mold development.

Weather
As mentioned, pipes are most likely to freeze and burst in the winter. Because of this, adding insulation around your pipes before winter hits can save you from future water damage. But it’s not only water from inside the home that you need to worry about; flooding, including rain, rising river levels, and snowmelt can all cause severe water damage. This damage can be to the base of your home or to your roof and attic, depending on the source of the water damage.

Clogs
Sewage backups create a dangerous form of water damage, as sewage contains hazardous bacteria. (Read here to learn more about The Health Risks Associated With Sewage Backups.) Clogs in toilets, sinks, and other drains can cause water damage that warps floors, wrecks drywall, and leads to the quick development of mold due to the organic material in blackwater and greywater.

Damaged Appliances
Appliances that require a water hookup, such as washing machines and dishwashers, can leak or back up and cause water damage. Water escaping these machines is often caused by worn-out pipes, leaking gaskets, broken doors, or clogs. If the water supply lines for your appliances are made of braided steel, you likely won’t have many leaks, but if your water supply line is made of rubber or PVC, it will eventually wear out and can lead to flooding and water damage. Water heaters can also leak due to a buildup of pressure, incorrect installation, or worn-out water supply lines.

Water Damage Cleanup In Calgary

If your home has suffered water damage, have it cleaned by a professional team to ensure the complete removal of all moisture. If your home has water damage that is not properly cleaned, areas of the home such as drywall and carpeting can begin to develop mold. By hiring the experts at 24/7 Restoration in Calgary, you can rest assured that all of the water is cleared from your home and that any water damage already done is fixed. Our team of restoration experts will work tirelessly to restore your home. Call 24/7 Restoration at any time, night or day, for water damage cleanup at 1-403-247-4365 or fill out the online contact form.

FAQ

Q: How quickly can mold start to grow if the water is not properly removed?
A: Mold can start growing within 72 hours of exposure to moisture. 

Q: Does 24/7 Restoration charge for estimates?
A: Our estimates are 100% free and we are committed to being super responsive when flooding occurs in your home or business.

Q: Is it safe to walk through a flooded basement?
A: Never walk through a flooded basement unless the electricity has been turned off in your home. The risk of electrocution is incredibly high. Even if the electricity is turned off, walking through a flooded basement is not safe as the water may be contaminated, and there may be objects in the water that can cause bodily harm.