Is Mold from a Water Leak Dangerous?

Eventually, as a homeowner you will end up dealing with a water leak in your home – especially if you live here in Central Florida. With the high winds that come with hurricanes and summer storms, minor roof damage is often incurred but not noticed until the constant summer rains create a stain on your ceiling.

Water damage can also be caused by smaller leaks like a leaky pipe or a bad connection on a dishwasher. Any way you look at it, in our humid environment, leaks big or small can become a BIG problem and a huge expense if not addressed right away.

Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew can be very dangerous and are inevitable if the leak is not repaired in a timely manner. Even just a few drops every day can create dampness that is ideal for growing mold. So even a poorly ventilated bathroom can become the culprit.

Mold will eventually spread to other areas of your home including the walls, flooring, furniture, air conditioning system and personal items. Left untreated, it can become very expensive to remove. And mold, especially black mold, can be toxic and dangerous for people and pets living in the home.

Effects on Your Health

Breathing issues can be made considerably worse (or even created) by mold in the home. This is especially dangerous for those with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory issues. Mold spores can be responsible for a whole host of other health problems including: itchy red eyes, throat or nose inflammation, skin irritation, chronic cough, and more. The people most affected are young children, the elderly, people with compromised immune systems, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Water Contamination

When your leak is associated with a pipe that is supplying the kitchen or bathrooms, you can end up with contaminated drinking water. As the pressure drops from the leak, the flow of water may end up “sucking” air from the leak and any buildup of contaminates along with it.

Other Issues Created by Water Leaks…

Increased Utility Bills

When you are considering significant leaks in water pipes, a resulting increase in your water bill is a no-brainer. However, there are many other factors created by a water leak that negatively impact the overall cost of utilities.

If the leak is in your roof and the attic insulation gets wet or damaged, it may not insulate your home properly. As a result the HVAC system will need to work extra hard to heat or cool your home.

Also, if the leak causes the overall humidity in your home to rise, it will cost more to cool your home. This is because humidity cancels out the cooling effect. When humidity is high, the air feels warmer than it actually is. So, you will need to keep your home at a lower temperature to stay cool.

Structural Damage

Plumbing or roof leaks alike can deteriorate wood and therefore cause drastic structural damage if not repaired right away. Ceiling joists, rafters, wall framing, drywall, and flooring can all be damaged beyond repair. And the cost of replacement can get really expensive.

Fire Hazards

How can a water leak create a fire hazard? When the moisture from a leak reaches areas with electrical wiring present, the risk of an electrical fire is dramatically increased. Not to mention the danger of electric shock. If you notice a water leak near electrical wiring, turn off your electricity and call for help immediately.

Getting Professional Help is Always a Good Idea

It is always a good idea to get professional help when dealing with a water leak, especially if there is significant damage or you suspect mold is present.

A water damage restoration specialist can correctly identify the source of the problem and help you determine if the repair can be covered by insurance. They can also properly evaluate the damage and itemize the repair, working with your insurance adjuster to ensure all costs are covered. They can determine what building materials can be salvaged and which ones need to be replaced. Most restoration companies can also treat for mold if necessary to prevent problems down the road.

If you discover a problem and need assistance with your water leak in Central Florida, contact OneRestore. Serving Ocala, Gainesville, The Villages and Crystal River areas.

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