(Newswire.net — May 4, 2022) — Water damage isn’t always as simple as it appears, especially when determining whether the water is freshwater or the more harmful saltwater. Freshwater damage typically happens from a burst pipe or other internal problem, while saltwater is derived from natural calamities such as severe storms or hurricanes.
Because salt is corrosive, it is often more harmful than freshwater. This is especially true for water damage Myrtle Beach. Facing saltwater damage issues doesn’t only happen at sea. Especially during a natural calamity, many homes and families risk being affected by saltwater damage.
Here are five things you should be aware of regarding saltwater damage.
Saltwater is Highly Corrosive
Since saltwater is highly corrosive, it will damage the concrete and metal on your property. It can eat through metal reinforcing used in concrete structures and penetrate concrete and progressively tear it down, resulting in weakness and instability years later. If a system is regularly exposed to seawater intrusion, major structural problems can emerge, or it may collapse.
Salt Harms Your Home’s Electrical Components
When electrical components are exposed to salt, the metal corrodes, resulting in electric short circuits and other issues. In the best-case scenario, electronic equipment is malfunctioning and will not switch on. Whereas in some cases, corrosion may expose persons to the risk of electrical shock.
When a home is flooded with saline or brackish water, you must clean the electrical systems with fresh water and then be evaluated to see if any or all wiring needs to be replaced. It includes any wiring in the walls, the electrical box, and any appliances or electronic equipment left in the house.
Salt can lead to the formation of Mold
Like any other type of flood damage, saltwater damage can lead to Mold in the long run if not dealt with properly. Flooding reaches hidden corners of a structure, making it difficult to dry, and Mold loves moisture.
Following a flood, you must adequately dry everything out with heaters and fans to remove any water that may have become embedded in the insulation, walls, and other structural components. Until flood-damaged material is completely dry, it should not be painted, plastered, or otherwise covered.
Saltwater can cause the soil to erode
Saltwater can cause the soil around your property to erode. The natural chemical composition of the soil around your property might be harmed by saltwater. As a result, the soil may weaken and shift, causing structural issues with your foundation and eroding over time.
Saltwater Damage Restoration
Because saltwater floods and other forms of water damage are unavoidable, the best course of action is to evacuate the region and follow local authorities’ instructions. You have to return to your home only after a specialist has examined it for signs of damage or danger and confirmed it is safe for use.
Then, to remove saltwater from your house, contact a water damage restoration professional. After severe saltwater damage, only experienced technicians can restore your home to its previous condition.
Salt Damage Prevention
If the thought of salt damage makes you worried, you should know that there are some things you can do to prevent it from happening. In flood zones and hurricane-prone areas, use specially coated and treated materials when building homes.
These can withstand water penetration, lowering the risk of damage and limiting the extent of the damage if it does occur. Many local building standards require flood-resistant materials for this reason, so if you’re planning new construction, renovating, or repairing a damaged home, talk to a professional about it.
Last Thoughts
You must follow preventive measures specified by the local authorities. Because salt has an electrical charge, it is highly reactive when floating in the water. It can penetrate various materials quickly and then hang on tight once inside. Due to its destructive nature, you should treat your property with specialist advice to avoid more damage.