Water Damage and Building Materials

3/29/2022 (Permalink)

Know more about Water Damage and Building Materials By Following Our Tips.

Depending on the extent of water damage to your home, you might wonder about what materials are salvageable. The general rule, especially when dealing with category three damage, is to discard as much as possible, primarily any porous materials that came into contact with the contaminated water supply. However, even in situations of clean water damage, materials, like swelling wood, might not be salvageable.

According to most water restoration services in Sandy, UT, water affects building materials differently, the following are three potential examples.

1. Insulation and Swollen Wood

Swelling wood is likely beyond saving, especially if it is a laminate material. The swelling means the water has sat long enough on the surface to soak beneath any seal coat. When wood swells it expands and distorts, making it hard to salvage, especially when not solid wood.

Insulation is typically discarded after a water pipe repair because it is a favorite nesting site for mold. Mold establishes itself within 24 to 48 hours of a leak. Standard insulation is porous and cheap enough to replace without concern. If insulation is foam-based, mitigation specialists might try to save it — if they can dry the surrounding areas.

2. Drywall and Solid Wood

If the exposure time is limited and drywall and solid wood elements have not been contaminated, it is possible to salvage furniture and wallboard. However, salvaging these materials depends on the contamination level or the water.

3. Flooring and Ceiling Tiles

If a supply line in the ceiling or beneath the flooring of your home, it is quite possible the materials will be removed. Ceiling tiles are typically porous and will expand when wet, similar to flooring. The subfloor can twist and swell also causing problems with the home's structure.

Water can lead to swelling wood, but it can also lead to mold growth and numerous other problems. It is crucial to know what materials are salvageable after water damage. While the above list is helpful, it is not exhaustive.