Water spreads rapidly increasing cost dramatically; furniture (especially antique) stains carpet permanently; moisture sensitive furniture finishes turn white; paper goods (books) swell and warp up permanently. Hours – Furniture in direct contact with water delaminates, swells, legs begin to split and release stain; Sheetrock swells and disintegrates; bacterial odor (sour) becomes apparent. Days – Mold appears along with “musty” odor; internal components in pianos and organs begin to swell in the presence of condensed moisture; metal begins to rust; wood structural members (door and window casings, decking, joists, studs) begin to swell, warp and split; electronic components exposed to excess condensation malfunction. Weeks – Fungi associated with prolonged dampness sinks roots in organic materials (jute backings, paper coverings on Sheetrock, paneling, wood, etc). Wood components warp and split, while chemicals within the wood are dissolved and discolor or destroy finishes. Claim costs escalate!

Acid soot residues cause plastic surfaces to discolor (small appliances); paper discolors; porous stone (marble, alabaster) stains. Hours – Acid soot residue stains grout; yellows fiberglass bath fixtures, counter tops, appliances (especially refrigerators and freezers extending above the heat line); tarnishes metal; discolors (yellows) furniture finishes. Days – Painted walls yellow permanently; metal corrodes and pits; finished wood furniture requires refinishing; vinyl floors require refinishing or replacement; clothing becomes permanently soot stained, upholstery fabrics stain permanently. Weeks – Carpet fibers yellow permanently, silver plate corrodes permanently; glass, china, crystal require replacement due to severe etching and pitting caused by acid soot.