Data shows that around 50% of the buildings in the US are in areas that are at risk of being exposed to natural hazards. The risk of property damage caused by natural hazards is rising as climate change gets more pronounced. The leading cause of property damage in the US is flood damage. They can result in a lot of structural damage. The longer water is left standing in a building after a flood, the more severe the resulting flood damage.
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Water damage after flooding can lead to several problems. Flood restoration services need to be quick to minimize these problems. When there is exposure to moisture, building materials like drywall get damaged. Emergency Relief Pros provides water damage repair and flood damage restoration services in emergencies. This company has more than a decade of experience and IICRC-certified technicians to handle water damage in Barrington, IL, and nearby areas. In this article, the water damage company outlines how flood damage affects drywall and when it needs to be replaced.
Drywall is made of gypsum and is a material used in the construction of walls and ceilings, and to design eaves, arches, and similar features. It makes structures more fire-resistant. Drywall is used instead of plaster as it reduces the construction time, is cheaper, and is less labor-intensive.
Though durable, drywall is prone to water damage. Damp drywall can develop mold and this can cause other complications. Depending on the extent of water damage, the drywall may need to be replaced.
Signs Of Wet Drywall
Discoloration and black, green, or brown spots
Water stains and spots which are usually brown
Bubbling or peeling of paint and wallpaper
Sagging and crumbly wall
How To Check Drywall For Moisture After Flooding
- A non-penetrating moisture meter helps to detect any mall. Also, baseboards can be removed and the wall poked, moisture close to the surface of the drywall with a screwdriver. Wet drywall feels soft when poked.
- A penetrating moisture meter can be used to measure water inside the wall. The insulation and wall studs can be checked for moisture after a large hole is cut in the wall.
What Happens When Drywall Is Wet?
The structural integrity of a wall is compromised when exposed to water. The extent of the damage depends on the duration of exposure to water and the type of water damage. Mold growth is estimated to start within 24 to 48 hours of flooding. This depends on other factors like the humidity, temperature, whether the drywall used was resistant to mold, etc. In case of any sign of mold, mold remediation must be done. This must be done by a company that has the required expertise. Emergency Relief Pros Restoration Remediation Reconstruction in Barrington, IL is a certified mold removal and mold remediation company.
Is It Possible To Salvage Wet Drywall?
Damp drywall can be dried out. Minimally moist drywall can be dried using towels, natural air, and sunlight. Dehumidifiers and high-volume fans are the best for drying out walls. The wall must be rechecked for moisture with a moisture meter after the drying and cleaning.
When Is Drywall Replaced?
If mold is present on it, drywall has to be replaced as it can be a health hazard. Moldy drywall can be replaced by professionals to ensure that it is done safely with minimal spread of spores.
Also if the drywall has been damaged by category 2 (greywater) or category 3 (blackwater) the wall has to be replaced. In cases where only some areas of drywall are affected by water damage, instead of replacing all the drywall panels, sections of the drywall can be replaced.
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After flooding a professional flood restoration service can be hired for flood damage restoration. Emergency Relief Pros is a company that provides emergency mitigation services including in the scenario of flooding. This independent restorer provides water, mold, storm, and flood damage restoration services in areas around Illinois including Barrington, IL. If only some areas are affected by water damage, or there are just a few wet spots, sections of drywall can be replaced rather than replacing entire drywall panels.
For a prompt response by trained and certified water damage restoration experts, property owners in Barrington, IL can call Emergency Relief Pros at (847) 282-0302 for a consultation.
