Don’t you love sleeping with the windows open? It’s so nice to catch that summer breeze that airs out the house. In southern California, we love fresh air and sunshine–an average of 384 days a year. However, we know you are living on borrowed time. One of these days, a passing storm will drench your house while you aren’t home.
If you forget about an open window that let rain in, you could have problems. PRC Inc. in Long Beach can help you with:
Structural Damage
Unless it’s a serious storm coming through, the water damage from rain entering an open window generally won’t reach past the window sill. If left to sit though, standing water can soak into window sills and cause them to rot over time. This type of damage can happen to windows with wooden frames. Most modern windows are made from plastics that mimic the look and feel of wood that will stand up to water damage better.
Windows frames and sills can suffer from condensation that can cause water damage. Excess water gets absorbed into wooden window components which can rot and discolor. (Your flooring and furniture can also warp and deteriorate from the leak.)
Window Treatments
Metal and vinyl blinds should be fine, watch out for mold or weakening of ropes and cotton cables. Wooden blinds and shutters need more attention; can you move them outside to dry in the sunshine? You want to be sure they are 100% dry to prevent mold growth. PRC Inc. has many years of experience and can suggest the best method to restore permanent window dressings.
As for textile treatments, read the fabric care label. Not all drapery fabrics are washable. If your draperies are dry clean only, you will need to take them to a professional. Cleaning agents affect fabrics differently, so it is critical to use the proper agent.
If they are washable, wash the entire drapery in your washing machine. If your machine’s load capacity is too small, use your bathtub. Dry and iron curtains according to care instructions.
Avoid Mold
It’s easy to think a little water from a passing storm won’t cause much damage, but it doesn’t take much for mold to begin forming. Mold spores thrive in environments that provide a moisture and food source and your wet window sill creates an ideal environment. As soon as you notice mold growth on your window sill or window frame, call PRC Inc. immediately to remove the mold growth and restore the damage.
Tips to Prevent Window Water Damage
Water damage around your window can be prevented by taking action:
Close your windows when you leave the home; you never know when it might start raining.
Dry your window sill and window frame immediately if it is wet from the rain; wipe off condensation from the window pane and frame.
Make sure windows seal properly.
Water Damage Restoration In the LA Area
If your home suffers from water damage, PRC will be your partner in recovery. Our team specializes in emergency property restoration, and is equipped to handle all aspects of water damage cleanup and restoration. Our professionals are available 24/7 with a one hour response time. The technicians are trained to identify structural risks and address instability issues until permanent repairs can be made.
We are a full-service licensed general contractor in the Ventura County area that provides emergency services, mitigation, structural repairs and construction services. For service in Long Beach and all of Greater Los Angeles, contact us.