Water Damage is the accidental and permanent loss of water or moisture to your property. It should be noted that this does not include natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods caused by acts of nature. This damage can occur in many different ways, from getting a leak in your pipes to flooding from a storm drain clog. Still, the real cause is often improperly installed or maintained water-absorbing materials.

Leakage: The most common cause is leakage. A leak can be caused by a shower causing pipes to freeze, tree roots causing a pipe to burst, or even broken pipes.

Water Overflow: Occurs from over flooding from storm drains or other roof runoff systems. This is caused by incorrect handling of drain systems, high winds, and heavy rain or snow.

Water Absorption: This happens when materials such as foam, loose fill, and carpeting soak up too much of the excess water that accumulates in your home's basement, attic, and other places. You can use a humidity meter to measure the moisture in your home. It occurs from improperly installed or maintained water-absorbing materials — such as carpeting, loose fill, or foam — that were installed in wet areas of your house or business.

There are a number of dangers you should be aware of when it comes to damage caused by water.

Mold: First, the affected materials will begin to smell musty, and then moisture and mold will start to grow, damaging your home or business. Harmful mold can cause harm to your health, especially if you breathe in a lot of the mold spores.

Cracking: Some affected materials absorb the water so much that they shrink in size, causing the material to crack and break into pieces. It is essential to stop the flow of water as soon as possible. Otherwise, further damage may occur.

Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent these dangers.

Proper Water Absorption Materials: Although your home's interior moisture levels may be stable, over time, water absorbed in your basement, attic, and other areas of your home can lead to moisture problems that damage your property.

Have Your Home Inspected: Before purchasing any water-absorbing materials, have a qualified contractor inspect the property before purchasing new carpeting or other water-absorbing materials.

Consider Repairs: If water-absorbing materials are installed in your house's wet areas, ensure they are correctly installed. Also, ensure all drains to your basement and attic are cleared, checked at least once a year, and any storm drain covers are cleaned or replaced if needed.