The Visible and Hidden Dangers of Water Leaks

Photo: Andrey Popov/iStock​

Noticing and taking care of water leaks on time is very important because if left unattended they can lead to some greater damages, whether to your property or to your health. Here are some of the main hidden dangers that leaks can cause:

1. Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew are probably the most serious problems that can develop due to a water leak. Mold and mildew are prone to appear and grow in damp places, on wet areas and areas that build-up moisture easily. Even a few drops of water a day can lead to damp spots where mold is very likely to appear. It can spread to different areas of your home, including the HVAC system, walls, floors, wood framing, furniture, carpets, and even clothing. Mold can be toxic, and it can be harder to remove and costly if left alone.

2. Health Effects

Mold and mildew are not only harmful to your home, but they can also pose some serious health risks, especially for those who have respiratory issues and asthma. Mold spores are known to cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, nose and throat inflammation and soreness, coughing, sneezing, itchy and red eyes.

3. Household Water Contamination

If your leak is coming from a burst or broken pipe that carries drinking water to your household, that water is at risk of contamination as different contaminants can enter the pipe when there is a sudden change or drop in the pressure in the pipe.

4. Increased Utility Bills

As your water continues leaking, you will see a higher water bill, but also higher utility bills. This can happen due to damages that water causes to your insulation as well. As the leak makes its way through the roof, attic, or ceiling, it will also saturate and damage all the insulation it comes across. This, in turn, results in more warm or cold air loss and more energy spent on heating and cooling.

5. Attic and Ceiling Damage

If you have an attic, then leaks coming from your roof can damage the attic and things you have stored there, and if you don’t have one, then the damage will be on your ceiling. This damage can then spread and affect the integrity of your walls, and even damage your lights and fans mounted on the ceiling.

6. Fire hazard

One of the most unexpected dangers of water leaks is a fire hazard. When a leak is near or reaches the areas with electrical wiring you are at risk of short circuits and shorted wires which can result in electrical fires and therefore serious damages. When the leak is near electrical wiring it is always recommended to turn off the electricity and have a professional deal with it. 

7. Financial damage

Water leaks can lead to some significant blows to your budget. The potential dangers described previously, such as compromised structural integrity, damages to the ceiling, attics, walls, as well as the appearance of mold and mildew, are all issues that can be complex and costly to resolve.

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