Basements flood more frequently than any other area in the home. Because it seems to happen so often, and most of the long-lasting effects are hidden behind walls and under floors, many homeowners overlook basement floods and fail to recognize the dangers that follow flooding in the basement.
Some of the effects of flooding in the basement that are easily noticed are the damages to your possessions. Furniture, carpet, drywall, textiles, and paper goods all suffer immensely when exposed to water. Damage to possessions is a top priority and concern following any flooding, and should definitely be addressed and taken care of. However, most of these items can be replaced and pose no serious threat to health or structural integrity of the home. But excess moisture in your basement can actually lead to significant health and structural dangers.
Water can flood your basement in a number of ways. One way water can enter is through cracks in the very foundation of your home. When the foundation allows entry points for water, it causes those cracks to expand. As cracks in the foundation expand, the foundation itself becomes weakened. Other structural components of the home, like wood, sheetrock, and drywall all absorb water when exposed to it. As these materials continue to absorb water, they begin to swell and warp. This warping compromises the integrity of floors, walls, and ceilings. Rot and deterioration will also begin to occur is expose to moisture and water is prolonged.
Damp areas in your basement not only lead to warping and buckling of structural materials, but also provide the perfect environment for mold to grow. With moisture available, mold can grow in as little as 48 hours. AS mold growth continues to spread, fungus and other bacteria will also be introduced to your home. Exposure to these contaminants causes respiratory problems, and put everyone in the home at risk. Mold spores travel through the air, so it is not just the air in the basement that is compromised, but the air quality throughout the entire home becomes contaminated.
Along with respiratory problems from mold exposure, flooded basements also pose the risk for electrical shock. Water is a great conductor of electricity, so when it floods into your basement, all electrical components that have been exposed are hazardous. Standing water in basements is especially dangerous, and should be avoided at all costs. If your basement has flooded, do not take any risks and shut off all power to the area until the floodwater can be properly and thoroughly cleaned.
A wet basement is a serious threat to your health and your home’s structure. Whether you have had a major flood, or you notice a leak or dampness in your basement, do not procrastinate calling in the professionals. MA Restoration offers complete water damage restoration solutions from professional drying with the latest equipment, to completely rebuilding the water damaged materials and structures. We know the dangers that come from basement flooding, and have the training and experience needed to make your home safe and dry. If you experience any basement flooding, or any other water damage in Worcester, call MA Restoration right away.