If you delay repairing water damaged ceiling, you could be in for a nasty shock. Not only will the repair cost more in the future, but you could find yourself and your family suffering unnecessary health issues and rising costs of running your home.
Here are seven tips that explain the dangers and risks you face from a water damaged ceiling that is left unrepaired.
1. Get the work done quickly before the cost escalates
According to the True Costs Guide published by Home Advisor, when repairing water damaged ceiling most people will spend between $333 and $1,040. However, those that left the repair work too long saw the damage spread and the repair cost rocket to $2,300.
2. Damage spreads quickly to other areas
A water damaged ceiling is usually evidence of a bigger problem. You might find that items stored in the attic space are becoming damp, and those with sentimental value could be damaged beyond repair.
Walls, ceiling mounted lights, fans, and coving could all be affected by water pooling above the ceiling and seeping through.
3. You risk spreading mold and mildew
Mold and mildew spreads quickly in damp, warm environments. This is one of the major reasons that repairing water damaged ceiling should be a priority. Mold gets into clothes, soft furnishings, and carpets. Black mold will attack wood, drywall, and floors. It’s difficult to remove, and can be costly (though this handy five step process to remove mold might help).
4. Mold is a health hazard
Mold is a big health hazard, especially to those with existing health issues. Don’t take our word for it – the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says that “molds have the potential to cause health problems”. Mold can cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, skin and eye irritations, and throat and lung problems.
5. Putting off repairing fire damaged ceiling creates a fire hazard
Water tends to find the quickest route to freedom, and this is often via electrical wiring. A shorted electrical system is a serious fire risk.
6. Danger underfoot!
Water dribbling down walls or dripping from ceilings can puddle on floors. This is an extra danger that most people don’t recognize; until it is too late and a little one slips and breaks an arm or leg.
7. You could find your utility bills rise
If you delay repairing water damaged ceiling, you could find your utility bills rise. The actual leak is likely to be either be in the attic space or from a damaged roof, and this will damage insulation – your home will suffer with higher heating and cooling bills.
For more information, contact us today – we’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and will be happy to help.