Everyone knows that a water leak in or under their home can cause very costly damage, from ruining furnishings and finishes to structural damage. And when you have or suspect a water leak, the service of a leak detection professional can be a life-saver. But did you also know that those leaks in your home could be creating unexplained health issues for you and your family members?
What Makes Water Leaks So Hazardous?
Typically, it is not the water that becomes the health risk. The health concerns are related to the mildew and mold resulting from water-saturated personal belongings, flooring, and the structural materials in your home. Mold and mildew are part of the fungus family. They need optimal temperature, a food source, and moisture to thrive and multiple. And fortunately, most homes lack the moisture that mold and mildew need to survive.
But when there is a water leak in your home, and especially one concealed inside the walls or floors of your home, these fungi have the ideal habitat to grow and spread rapidly. In less than 24 hours, mold can begin to grow in an area with excessive moisture. And even though it is inside the walls and floors of your home, the spores can still have a health impact.
Health Issues Related To Mold And Mildew
Most of the health issues related to mold and mildew center around the respiratory system. And while some people will suffer little or no effect, others can become very ill. The most common health concerns you might notice include:
- Nose and throat irritation
- Red, itchy, swollen eyes
- Coughing and sneezing, much like seasonal allergies
- Sinus pain, congestion, and pressure
- Upper and lower respiratory infections
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- With direct contact, mold can cause a skin rash
How Mold Contaminates Your Home
If the water leak in your home is contained in the floor or even under the concrete slab foundation, you might think it poses no health risk. However, that is not true. The spores from mold and mildew become airborne and can rapidly spread. And when they contact other moist surfaces, they can continue to multiply very quickly.
Those Most At Risk
Once the mold is airborne, anyone can exhibit the signs of an allergic reaction, cold or other illness. But those who have a pre-existing respiratory condition can suffer a severe reaction. Anyone with allergies, asthma, or COPD can suffer life-threatening symptoms soon after exposure.
Maybe You Need A Plumber, Not A Doctor
If you or a family member has been suffering from what appeared to be an unexplained respiratory issue, a water leak hidden in your home could be to blame. If your medical professional cannot confirm the cause of the problem, a call to your local leak detection pros could be the solution you have been looking for.
Other Signs Of A Hidden Water Leak
Even if you are not suffering from life-threatening issues due to mold and mildew, you still need to have any hidden leak located and repaired. Some of the most common indications of a possible hidden water leak include:
- Unexplained moisture on floors, ceilings, or walls
- Bubbling of paint or staining on walls or ceilings
- A musty odor
- A drop in your home’s water pressure
- An unexplained increase in your water bill
- A faint sound of water dripping or running
- Particulates, flakes, or specks in your water
When you notice any indications of a hidden leak in your home, call (866) 619-7063. The leak detection experts from Leak1 Leak Detection will arrive quickly to locate any issues.