Water Damage Cleanup

Assessing and Dealing with Specific Damage

What happens if water gets in your walls?

Water can cause significant damage to your home if it gets into the walls. The following are some of the potential problems that can occur:

• Mold and mildew growth: Moisture provides an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow. These organisms can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma.
• Structural damage: Water can weaken the structure of your home, making it more susceptible to damage from wind, rain, and other forces.
• Electrical hazards: Water can damage electrical wiring, creating a fire hazard.
• Damage to personal belongings: Water can damage or destroy personal belongings, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics.

It is important to take steps to address water damage to your walls as soon as possible. The first step is to identify the source of the water and stop it from leaking. Once the source of the water has been stopped, you can begin to clean up the damage.

Here are some tips for cleaning up water damage to your walls:

• Remove all wet materials: Remove any wet materials from the walls, such as drywall, insulation, and carpeting.
• Dry the walls: Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the walls as quickly as possible. You can also open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate.
• Treat for mold and mildew: If mold or mildew has begun to grow, you will need to treat the area with a mold and mildew killer.
• Repair the damage: Once the walls are dry, you can repair the damage. This may involve replacing drywall, insulation, or carpeting.

If you have any questions about how to clean up water damage to your walls, consult with a qualified professional.