8 Questions About Water Damage in Idaho Answered

Common Signs of Water Damage in Idaho

Water damage to residential homes can affect up to 14,000 people every day and cost tens of thousands of dollars in insurance claims. But do you know how to identify water damage and its common causes? The more knowledge you have, the better prepared you will be in an emergency. 

 

Discover the signs of water damage as well as what to expect when you contact a professional water damage restoration company. Here is what you should know about water damage. 

Types of Water Damage

Not all water damage is the same. In fact, there are three types of water damage: clean water, grey water, and black water damage. The difference between the three types is the level of water contamination.  

 

Clean water is free of contaminants and can come from overflowing sinks or broken water lines.

 

Grey water contains some contaminants since it usually comes from toilets or sump pump failures. 

 

Black water is unsanitary and contains harmful bacteria and fungi since it comes from sewage, floodwater, or groundwater. 

What Are the Signs of Water Damage? 

Now that you can identify the three types, how can you tell if you are experiencing water damage? There are various signs you can watch for throughout your home’s floors, walls, and ceilings that can warn you of water damage.  

Floors

• Soft to the touch
• Wet spots
• Warping
• Discoloration
• Strange smells

Walls

• Cracked and flaky paint
• Wet cabinetry
• Discoloration
• Moldy smell

 

Ceiling

• Discoloration
• Wet spots
• Foul smells
  

What Causes Water Damage? 

While this is by no means a complete list, it can provide you with a good idea of the top four causes of water damage to Idaho homes. 

Leaky Roof

With the wet season in Idaho lasting about seven months, any current or unidentified leaks in your roof could leave your home with potential water damage. Standing water can also be a problem when puddles form on your roof.  

Sewage System Damage

Backups or blockages in the sewage system can result in water damage. Tree roots can also pose a problem with sewage lines and lead to breaks. 

Obstructed Rain Gutters

When rain gutters get clogged, the water can collect and cause damage to the roof and foundation of the home. Regularly cleaning your gutters allows them to do their job properly when it rains. 

Damaged Pipes

Frozen pipes, leaking pipes, or a pipe burst can all cause water damage. Over time, normal wear and tear can lead to damaged pipes. 

Can I Prevent Water Damage?

While not all water damage can be preventable, it is possible to take some preventative measures to protect your home. 

 

• Have your roof inspected annually and stay up to date on any necessary repairs
• Install a sump pump in your basement 
• Regularly check for potential leaks 
• If you have low water pressure, get the pipes inspected by a plumber

When Should I Contact a Professional Water Damage Company? 

Contact a professional company at first sight of water damage in your home. An expert mitigation company will handle every step of the process, from initial assessment to restoration and reconstruction. 

 

Schedule Your Expert Water Restoration Service 

Can I Experience Structural Problems From Water Damage? 

It is possible to experience structural problems caused by water damage. Here are a few structural problems you might encounter: 

 

• Damage to the roof 
• Cracks in the foundation, walls, ceilings, and drywall
• Damage to wood
• Rusted metal 

 

These structural problems can be costly to fix and pose foreseeable safety hazards, in addition to ultimately lowering the value of your home. 

Can the Damage Be Restored? 

Unfortunately, there is no one size fits all answer. It all depends on the scale of the damage to your home or business. In most cases, water damage can be restored through a professional restoration company. However, the only way you will receive an answer to this question is by contacting mitigation experts after water damage.  

What Can I Expect During Water Damage Restoration? 

When you contact a professional water damage restoration company, you can expect a multi-step process to restore your property to its pre-loss condition. 

 

1. Technicians will start by assessing your property. 
2. Next, they will work with your insurance adjuster (if a claim has been filed) to properly record and document the damage. 
3. Then the work begins to dry and dehumidify with air movers, HEPA vacuums, and commercial-grade water extraction tools. 
4. Next, technicians work to mitigate and prevent further damage. 
5. Lastly, reconstruction ensures your property is back to its pre-loss state.      

Get Expert Water Damage Restoration Services When You Need It Most

When you experience water damage, it can be a stressful ordeal. Contact the water damage restoration team who will work tirelessly throughout the restoration process. For over 25 years, CTR has provided transparent and trusted service to Idahoans. With 24/7 emergency service, you can count on CTR to be there for you in your time of need. 

 

Call CTR for expert water damage restoration at (208) 907-3830.