Water damage is a common problem for homes and businesses across the United States, accounting for millions of dollars in property damage yearly. A professional water damage contractor can help homeowners with water damage restoration, whether it’s from floods, leaks, burst pipes, heavy rainfall, or any other cause, the effects of water damage are wide-ranging. 

If not addressed quickly enough, it can not only lead to structural damage but also adversely affect indoor air quality. But how does water damage affect the quality of air in a home or commercial space?

The Homestar Group is a reputable water damage contractor. Its technicians here have a reputation for providing top-level water damage restoration services to help prevent further property damage and improve indoor air quality. 

In this blog post, they highlight some of the notable effects of water damage on indoor air quality. 

1. Release of Toxic Chemicals and Gases

Water damage can lead to the emission of harmful gases and chemicals into the air. A good example is when water comes into contact with drywall and other building materials. This can trigger the release of formaldehyde, a harmful gas known for causing various health issues, including:

• Nose irritation
• Throat irritation
• Eye irritation
• Cancer

Water damage may also promote the release of volatile organic compounds from materials like carpets and upholstery. VOCs are toxic chemicals associated with various health problems, including nausea, dizziness, headaches, and respiratory complications. 

2. Mold and Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew are common aftermaths of water damage. Flooding creates a conducive environment for mold and mildew to grow and thrive. These microorganisms love moist and humid environments. 

Once they grow, they’ll release spores into the air. This can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory issues in individuals sensitive to spores. Some of the health problems associated with spores include:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Skin rashes
• Itchy eyes

It’s also worth noting that extended exposure to mold spores can cause more severe health problems like bronchitis, asthma, and lung infections. Time is of the essence when it comes to tackling water damage. Calling a water damage contractor at the first signs of trouble can help prevent mold and mildew growth and subsequently avoid various health complications.

3. Poor Ventilation 

When a flood strikes, homeowners will often close doors and windows to minimize property damage. Sadly, this may compromise ventilation and aggravate indoor air pollution. 

Also, in the event of water damage, restoration professionals recommend sealing the building off to prevent contaminants from spreading. Unfortunately, this practice can hamper proper ventilation, driving up indoor air pollution. 

Insufficient ventilation can result in the build-up of stale air, which will trap pollutants in the home. 

4. Increased Humidity

Humidity simply refers to the amount of moisture in the air.  Floods can significantly increase the humidity levels in various indoor areas, like crawlspaces and basements. When indoor humidity becomes too high, the moisture in the air often condenses on surfaces as water. 

This water may, at times, appear out of sight, such as above the ceiling or behind walls. Detecting this type of water damage can be difficult, which is why it easily causes damage to furniture, building materials, and other household items. It can also lead to mold growth and respiratory problems. 

5. Structural Damage

Floodwaters can severely damage the structure of a building. This may include floors, walls, and ceilings. Such damage may create cracks in the building envelope, through which pollutants can enter the indoor living space. 

Water damage can also cause porous building materials, electronic items, and electrical systems to deteriorate over time. 

Learn More About How Water Damage Affects Indoor Air Quality

Water damage can wreak havoc on residential and commercial properties. If not addressed quickly, it can have a significant impact on indoor air quality. It may lead to the emission of toxic substances into the air, mold, mildew growth, poor ventilation, high humidity levels, and structural damage, among other issues that would make the property inhabitable. 

To avoid such headaches, it’s important to call a professional as quickly as possible when flooding occurs. The Homestar Group is the go-to contractor when it comes to tackling water damage and restoring indoor air quality to safe levels. 

Whether the damage to your home is from gray water, blackwater, or any other kind of standing water, these professionals have the skills and equipment to get the home back to its pre-damage condition. 

Give The Homestar Group a call at (678) 928-5377 or fill out their online contact form to get a free quote.