Water damage is, oftentimes, the quiet killer of homes and commercial properties, creeping in unnoticed and then revealing its wrath once it’s too late. Water penetrates every corner in force, from torrential rainfall and burst pipes to flooding and leaks, leaving destruction in its wake that could run thousands of dollars to repair. What if there was a way to do less damage before it becomes an expensive repair? A quick response with the right approach to water damage restoration can help you save time and money and help maintain your property integrity.
Understanding the Impact of Water Damage on Your Property
Water damage is not limited to wet floors and soggy walls. More often than not, it creates a domino effect of secondary problems: mold, decay, structural instability, and lasting health hazards. Water damage restoration is more than just cleaning up a mess; it also involves repairing any underlying damage so that the problems don’t manifest themselves later on. Here’s our essential guide on dealing with water damage restoration to keep things under control and react quickly.
Properly Drying Out the Affected Areas
Once the water supply is stopped, the property needs to be dried out. Use a wet/dry vacuum, towels, or mops to remove excess water from floors, furniture, and walls. If the damage is more extensive, industrial-grade dehumidifiers and fans may be used to accelerate the drying process. This prevents the growth of molds and mildews, which thrive in moist environments. Keep windows open if you can for better airflow and evaporation.
If flooding has occurred, professionals can use specialized equipment and techniques to dry out hidden spaces like crawl spaces and behind walls to ensure that moisture does not remain. This is not limited to the visible spaces, either, as traces behind the scenes can cause chronic structural problems if not accounted for.
Inspecting for Hidden Damage
Water damage restoration goes far beyond cleaning what you see. Most of the time, the true destruction is in ways you can’t yet see.” The structure of your house, from drywall to insulation, can also absorb moisture and become compromised if the moisture isn’t stopped. You’ll want to thoroughly check these areas, especially for signs of mold, rotting wood, or warping.
If your property has been severely damaged by water, ensure it is professionally inspected. Restoration specialists can spot hard-to-see problems and take steps to correct them before they get worse.
Properly Sanitizing to Avoid Health Risks
Water damage from sewer backups or floodwaters can bring dangerous contaminants into your home. No one should be exposed to dangerous potential toxic pollutants and the serious health risks associated with them. When restoring your home after water damage, it is necessary to sanitize the affected area to help ensure the health and safety of your family. Join antimicrobial cleaners to disinfect surfaces and prevent the growth of bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
Wearing protective gear is necessary if you’re dealing with polluted water, and contacting a professional restoration team will ensure your property is appropriately sanitized.
Repairing the Damage with Professional Expertise
Following any drying-out process, repairs must be made, so water damage restoration is not just about drying out areas. Once the water is removed and the property is sanitized, repairs to structurally compromised areas should be made. That might involve pulling out and replacing ruined drywall, re-plastering walls, and even rebuilding sections of flooring.
Choosing professional water damage restoration services can allow the repairs to be made according to building codes and industry standards. Specialists have the necessary equipment, knowledge, and expertise to restore your property to its state before the damage occurs.
Invest in Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Damage
When your property is restored, it’s time to consider long-term prevention. Proper maintenance can often prevent flooding from water damage. Consider installing sump pumps in basement areas that are at risk of flooding and regularly checking your roof for leaks or damage. Regularly maintaining pipes, clearing them of any blockages, and making sure gutters are regularly cleaned can help keep water away from the home.
