Water damage is not something to ignore. Even a tiny leak can lead to big problems if you aren’t careful. How long it takes for damage to progress to unmanageable levels depends on many factors, including the area’s temperature, humidity, and the amount of water exposure. Knowing how quickly problems can escalate can help home and business owners understand the critical nature of taking immediate action to prevent even more costly repairs or health risks.
Check out the timeline damages from water typically follow.
First Few Minutes to Hours: Immediate Water Damage
As soon as water infiltrates a property, it spreads and soaks into porous materials like drywall, wood, carpet, and upholstery. Some immediate effects include:
- Furniture and Belongings Absorb Water: Wood furniture may swell, while fabric upholstery and carpets begin to soak up the moisture.
- Electrical Hazards Develop: Water that touches electrical outlets, wiring, or appliances, may cause electrical fires or short circuits.
- Damage to Paper and Personal Items: Documents, books, and photographs begin to warp, stick together, and deteriorate.
- Dyes and Stains Spread: Water may cause colors to bleed from fabrics or furniture, leading to staining on floors and walls.
First 24-48 Hours: Mold Growth Begins
According to FEMA, mold growth can begin in as little as 24 to 48 hours, which means just one or two days. Once the mold spores are present, they can quickly spread, especially if the area is dark and humidity levels are high. You may also begin to notice musty odors from the dampness and mildew, which is often one of the first signs of mold presence.
48 Hours to One Week: Severe Structural and Health Risks
If water damage is not addressed within a week, the property may experience significant deterioration, including:
- Mold growth: By this stage, mold colonies become well-established and can penetrate deep into walls, flooring, and HVAC systems.
- Severe Wood Rot and Structural Damage: Wooden beams, subflooring, and drywall can begin to rot, compromising the integrity of the building.
- Metal Corrosion: If water reaches electrical panels, pipes, or metal structures, corrosion and rust may occur.
- Health Risks Increase: Prolonged exposure to mold and bacteria can lead to chronic respiratory issues and infections and may put you at risk for toxic mold syndrome.
Beyond One Week: Major Water Damage Restoration Required
If left unaddressed for more than a week, water damage restoration becomes more complex and costly:
- Extensive Mold Infestation: Professional mold remediation is required, often involving the removal of walls, flooring, and insulation.
- Compromised Structural Integrity: Wooden beams and support structures may weaken, posing a collapse risk.
- Severe Contamination Issues: The entire area may need disinfection and sanitization if water is contaminated (e.g., sewage or floodwater).
How to Minimize Water Damage
There are a few crucial steps you can take immediately to reduce the damage water causes, including:
- Shut Off Water and Electricity – If safe, turn off the main water supply and power to prevent further flooding and electrical hazards.
- Remove Excess Water – Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, and towels to extract standing water.
- Increase Ventilation – The more ventilation the area has, the faster it can dry. Consider adding fans and dehumidifiers to help.
- Call a Professional Restoration Service – Mold removal experts can assess damage, dry affected areas, and prevent mold growth.
- Inspect for Mold Growth – Watch for musty odors and visible mold spots, and address any signs immediately.
Final Thoughts: Water Damage Restoration
If you don’t act fast, water damage can become a much bigger problem within two days. Mold growth, structural issues, and a loss of personal belongings are just a few of the issues you may experience if you don’t get water damage restoration services in place quickly.
Acting fast by removing water, drying affected areas, and seeking professional help can prevent costly repairs and health hazards.
At Pinnelli Mold Pros, we offer top-quality water damage restoration services, helping you in your time of need with professional and supportive care; contact us today.