Assessing and Dealing with Specific Water Damage What Happens if Water Gets in Your Walls

Water Damage Cleanup

Water damage can be a devastating experience for any homeowner. Not only can it cause extensive damage to your property, but it can also pose serious health risks if mold or mildew are allowed to grow.

If you experience water damage in your home, it is important to take action quickly to prevent further damage and to protect your health.

What Happens if Water Gets in Your Walls?

When water gets into your walls, it can cause several different types of damage, including:

  • Rot and decay: Water can cause the wood in your walls to rot and decay, which can weaken the structure of your home and compromise its integrity.
  • Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, so they can quickly grow on walls that have been damaged by water. Mold and mildew can cause respiratory problems and other health issues.
  • Structural damage: In severe cases, water damage can cause structural damage to your home, which can lead to costly repairs.

How to Assess and Deal with Water Damage in Your Walls

Here is what you should do if you discover water damage in your walls.

1. Determine the source of the leak

Find out what caused the water damage by checking for any leaks in your plumbing, roof, or windows.

2. Stop the leak

Once you have found the source of the leak, take steps to stop it. This may involve turning off the water supply, repairing a leak in your plumbing, or replacing a damaged roof.

3. Remove the water

Use a wet/dry vacuum cleaner to remove as much water from your walls as possible. You can also use towels or rags to absorb the water.

4. Dry out your walls

Once you have removed the water, it is important to dry out your walls as quickly as possible. You can do this by using fans or dehumidifiers.

5. Repair the damage

Once your walls are dry, you will need to repair any damage that was caused by the water. This may involve replacing drywall, painting, or repairing structural damage.

If you are not comfortable dealing with water damage on your own, you should contact a professional water damage cleanup company for assistance.