Even a minor leak should never be dismissed. What begins as a small plumbing issue or roof leak can quickly become a serious health and structural concern.
Within 24 to 48 hours of moisture intrusion, mold and bacterial growth can begin. Often, this happens before visible water damage appears. Homes affected by persistent dampness are strongly associated with respiratory illness and other documented health risks.
For homeowners in Raleigh, Cary, Apex, and surrounding North Carolina communities, understanding the dangers of indoor moisture is critical.
How Moisture Impacts Indoor Air Quality
Persistent dampness creates hazardous conditions long before the damage is obvious. Moist environments promote biological growth that degrades indoor air quality and can negatively affect occupant health.
Dr. Richard Shaughnessy, Director of the University of Tulsa’s Clean Air Program, explains that moisture in homes has repeatedly been linked to respiratory problems and other detrimental health effects. Dampness supports mold, bacteria, pests, and dust mites, all of which can contribute to indoor air contamination.
Source: University of Tulsa Clean Air Program
https://utulsa.edu/people/richard-shaughnessy/
Key Health Risks Associated With Indoor Dampness
Bacterial Growth
Moisture creates ideal conditions for bacteria. A damp structure cannot be made safe with surface cleaning alone. Bacteria develop on moist organic materials such as drywall, subflooring, and framing. Contamination can spread within wall cavities and under flooring systems without being immediately visible.
Pest Infestation
Water damage environments attract rodents and cockroaches. According to Patrick Breysse of Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health, homes with significant water damage show higher levels of mouse and cockroach allergens, which are known asthma triggers.
Source: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
https://pure.johnshopkins.edu/en/publications/housing-and-allergens-a-pooled-analysis-of-nine-us-studies-10
Dust Mites
Dust mites thrive in temperatures around 80 degrees with relative humidity above 60 percent. Maintaining indoor humidity below 50 percent significantly reduces their population. Homes in humid North Carolina climates are particularly vulnerable without proper ventilation and dehumidification.
Mold Growth
Dr. Harriet Amman, a toxicologist at the University of Washington, notes that people become ill from living and working in damp spaces. Mold presence is often an indicator of broader moisture contamination within the structure.
Source: IAQ Radio Interview with Dr. Harriet Amman
https://www.iaqradio.com/250th-show-with-harriet-ammann-ph-d-d-a-b-t/
Research continues to show strong associations between indoor dampness, mold exposure, allergic reactions, and respiratory illness.
Preventing Water Damage and Moisture Problems
Homeowners can significantly reduce risk by acting quickly:
- Repair roof, plumbing, and foundation leaks immediately
- Use bathroom exhaust fans and kitchen range hoods
- Vent dryers to the exterior
- Operate dehumidifiers during humid months
- Insulate crawlspaces, basements, and exterior walls
- Schedule professional water extraction and structural drying after any water intrusion
Waiting to see if an area dries on its own can allow hidden damage to spread behind walls and beneath flooring.
Emergency Water Damage Restoration in Raleigh, NC
If your home experiences water intrusion, burst pipes, flooding, or hidden moisture issues, immediate action is critical.
EMERG+NC Property Rescuers specializes in:
- Emergency water damage restoration
- Water extraction and structural drying
- Mold prevention and remediation
- Storm and flood damage cleanup
We are locally owned and serve Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, Garner, and surrounding communities. With over 18 years of hands on restoration experience, our team responds quickly and works directly with insurance carriers to ensure your property is properly restored.
Delays increase damage and repair costs.
Do not wait for moisture problems to worsen. Call EMERG+NC Property Rescuers today. We’ll Respond in a Heartbeat.
(919) 363-7462
