Water Damage. It can happen quickly, or it can happen over a matter of days, months or even years. In fact, it is often the very small leak that causes the most damage because it is not noticed right away.

Water damage is one of the most devastating events that can happen in your home. In Panama, and in some of the southern states, where homes are often built of concrete, the damage does not seem as severe. But, there are many hidden effects of water damage that can't be seen. And they are even more devastating than the immediately visible damage to drywall.

Water damage can be caused by a number of different factors. It can be caused by external factors like rain and flooding. Or, it can be caused by internal factors like a leaky pipe or backed up sewer line. Someone I know recently had property manager run a hose through their house to fill a hot tub. It was a 3 day job, so they left the hose unattended, and it split, causing water to run unchecked for a couple of days into their kitchen and the basement below.

They saw some damaged drywall, but they didn't understand the hidden effects of water damage and standing water.

The first thing about water is it can run everywhere. Your house is made up of nooks and crannies that you can't see, and may not even know exist.

The problem with these areas is that water gets in, but there is no air flow, so the water does not have the opportunity to dry. This stagnant water goes on to cause the other hidden damage we are about to talk about.

The most obvious problem with hidden water is mold. Mold can form anywhere in the world that there is moisture and a food source for the mold. Mold can grow on wood and it loves gypsum. But, it can also grow on insulation, paper products and many other products.

Mold is a serious health problem for your family and can cause all types of breathing problems, skin issues and other diseases.

Next, you have the structural damage that can occur. Just because you have removed damaged drywall that you can see does not mean you are out of the woods. Water in hidden areas can damage wood and metal structural supports if it never has the opportunity to dry. This can weaken the structural members of your house.

Another problem with hidden water that many people do not consider is it becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can carry many types of diseases including West Nile Virus. Here in Panama and other tropical climates, they also carry Dengue fever and Malaria.

Hidden water damage, or hidden water in general around the home can be dangerous. It is the cause of several diseases and conditions. And, it can make your house weaker.

In fact, the hidden damage from water can be much worse that what you actually see.

So, if you are unfortunate enough to get water inside your house, whether it is from a broken pipe, or from rain or flood, make sure you inspect the damage thoroughly.

If you don't know what to look for, you should definitely call in a professional immediately. It doesn't take long for water damage to become dangerous.

Your home should be a place of comfort for you and your family. It should not be a place that is unhealthy or unsafe due to water damage.