VWB Blog Nobody wants to face the daunting task of dealing with water damage.
It’s expensive, time-consuming, and stressful. But knowing the common mistakes to avoid when fixing water damaged walls can save you money, time, and peace of mind in the long run.
Don’t make the mistake of delaying the repairs; learn the simple steps to take to tackle water damage head-on and get back to a dry and healthy home.
Read on!
Ignoring the Source of the Water Damage
One of the most common mistakes people make is ignoring the source of the water damage. Knowing where the water damage comes from can give insight into how to best clean and repair the wall. It could even determine the severity of the damage itself.
If the source remains hidden, the damage may worsen and spread to other areas of the house. Ignoring the source of the water damage can also lead to more costly repair bills due to the lack of preventive measures that could have been taken.
It is best to always identify the source and address any water leaks before moisture and mold have time to cause extensive and costly damage to your walls.
Not Thinking of Home Ventilation
Home ventilation plays an important role in avoiding water damage on walls. By having air circulating through your home, you can ensure that humidity levels don’t reach a point where damp spots can form on the walls. Common mistakes to avoid are the following:
- not making sure all vent openings in the house are closed
- not regularly cleaning and inspecting vents
- not clearing away any debris around vents to ensure the best airflow
Poor home ventilation can lead to mold growth and further water damage on walls. So these basic maintenance practices must be undertaken. If you suspect there is an issue with your home’s ventilation, it’s a good idea to contact a professional home inspector to assess the situation.
Not Utilizing the Right Cleaning Products
It’s important to select products that are not only labeled as safe to use but have also been specifically designed for use on this type of wall material. Some general-purpose cleaning products can be too harsh for water damaged walls. This may cause them to become further weakened and damaged.
Alternatively, specifically formulated cleaning products will help properly and effectively remove any mold, mildew, and grime in conjunction with other clean-up methods.
It’s also important to avoid any products that are made with harsh chemicals. They can be corrosive and may cause additional damage. Ultimately, the best thing to do is to utilize cleaning products specifically designed and labeled to use on water damaged walls safely.
Disregarding Safety Considerations During Fixing Process
It is important to wear the proper protective gear when working with water-damaged walls. This includes goggles, long sleeves, and long pants. Even minimal contact and inhalation of the moisture can be dangerous.
Proper PPE or Personal Protective Equipment should also be worn, and maintenance of the same is key. Additionally, using the wrong cleaning solutions or inappropriate tools when attempting to repair can lead to further damage and potential contamination.
Furthermore, when shopping for the appropriate tools to repair a water-damaged wall, always inspect the items and make sure they are suitable for the job at hand. Finally, never try to fix a problem that is beyond your skill level. This may lead to further damage or even collapse of the wall.
Not Inspecting the Damaged Walls for Structural Damage
It is important to inspect the damaged walls for structural damage when dealing with water damage. Not inspecting the walls for structural damage can lead to a host of problems.
Structural damage can lead to weakened support beams and joists in your home. This may cause walls and floors to sag or even collapse. Additionally, if the walls are not inspected for the extent of damage and future potential damage, the unstable structure may still be susceptible to future water damage.
Structural damage should always be inspected and properly addressed before attempting any water damage repairs. Not doing so may result in costly repairs that could have easily been avoided with precaution.
Delaying Action
Delaying action when it comes to dealing with water damaged walls is a common mistake to avoid. Not taking swift action can have serious consequences. This is because the water may start to cause structural damage or even mold growth.
If a water damaged wall is kept wet for too long, it can lead to extensive damage to the wall and potentially the entire building. Imagine having to replace an entire wall or hire professionals to repair an entire building. It’s much better to address the water damage immediately before it has time to spread.
Acting quickly is essential in minimizing further damage and preserving the integrity of the building.
Avoiding Professional Services
It may also be tempting to use quick fixes like paint or putty to cover up the damage; this should be avoided as it does not address the problem and does not eliminate the risk of further damage. Additionally, if the damage is extensive, it is best to call in a professional.
Attempting a large-scale repair without professional assistance will likely result in further damage. Avoiding professional services can extend the repair time and cost much more in the end.
For expert assistance on water damage restoration, you may check out Quik Stop Restoration. They might be able to help you solve your wall problem.
Fix Your Water Damaged Walls ASAP
Water damaged walls can be a costly repair, especially if they are not taken care of promptly. To avoid more damage and headaches, it’s essential to address any signs of water damage before they become more serious issues.
Remember to call professionals right away and use waterproofing techniques in the future. Take action today and help prevent further water damage!
For more tips and inspiration, be sure to check out other sections on our page while you’re here.