Dealing with Water Damage: How to Minimize Losses & Get Your Home or Business Back to Normal
Whether it’s a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or flooding, water damage can quickly lead to structural damage, mold growth, and health hazards. However, as stressful as it may be, dealing with water damage doesn’t have to be completely overwhelming.
With quick and effective action, you can minimize losses and restore your property back to its pre-damage glory. To help you out, we’ve reviewed essential tips on dealing with water damage repair. Let’s take a look!
1. Start the Repair Process As Soon As Possible
Ideally, water damage restoration should begin within 24-48 hours of re-entering your home, but keep in mind that the extent of the damage might require professional help from a restoration service to ensure that the process is done safely and correctly.
To find a reliable restoration service, research companies in your area and check their reviews and ratings. Ensure they are licensed and insured and have experience dealing with your specific type of water damage. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family members who had to deal with water damage in the past.
Additionally, don’t forget to learn more about water damage restoration costs to get a fair price for the services provided. Compare prices and services from different companies to make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget.
2. Document the Damage
Before starting the water damage removal process, it’s essential to document all the damage first, as this will help you receive fair compensation when you file an insurance claim. Take photos and videos of all areas affected by water damage, including floors, walls, ceilings, furniture, and personal belongings.
Also, use a notebook or a smartphone app to create a detailed inventory of damaged items, including their description, estimated value, and condition.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Your insurance policy might cover the costs associated with water damage restoration. In addition, your insurance company likely has specific guidelines or requirements that you will need to follow during the restoration process. They might recommend or require you to use a specific restoration company.
4. Remove Standing Water
Standing water not only damages your property but also creates a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can lead to health hazards. The first step is to identify the source of the water and stop it from flowing into your property.
Once you stop the water source, start removing the standing water. If the water is a few inches deep, you can use a wet-dry vacuum or a pump to extract it. However, if the water is more than a few inches deep, it’s best to hire a professional restoration service that will help you remove the water safely and efficiently.
5. Contact Your Utility Providers
Water can damage electrical systems, gas lines, and other utilities, leading to potential fire or explosion hazards. Utility companies can send a professional to your property to inspect your utilities and ensure they are safe to use. Sometimes they might need to shut off your utilities to prevent further damage or make necessary repairs.
6. Wear Protective Gear
Protecting yourself when re-entering your property after water damage is essential to avoid contact with harmful substances and minimize the risk of infection. Wear appropriate protective clothing, such as rubber boots and gloves, to prevent injuries and exposure to bacteria-filled water. Additionally, use a face mask to protect yourself from inhaling any airborne particles or contaminants.
7. Protect Your Valuables
You’ll probably have to throw out some valuable possessions but don’t let that discourage you. Some items might still be salvageable if you take prompt action. Try to dry off wet items as much as possible with a clean, dry cloth. Place any smaller items in a secure container, such as a plastic bag, to protect them from further damage.
Start by removing carpeting or furniture from the affected area to prevent further damage and create better air circulation. If the outside temperatures and humidity levels permit, cracking open windows can help increase ventilation and speed up the drying process.
Set up fans to circulate air, but avoid using high-heat sources that could damage the affected surfaces. For larger items, such as furniture or artwork, move them to a dry area of the property or raise them off the ground using blocks or bricks to prevent further damage.
Furthermore, hardwood floors are particularly vulnerable to water. You need to address the damage as soon as possible, so using fans and dehumidifiers can help speed up the drying process. If the damage is severe, you may need to sand and refinish the floors to remove any remaining water stains or warping.
8. Watch Out for Mold
Water damage can quickly lead to the growth of mold, which can be difficult to remove once it has started developing. In fact, mold can start growing in as little as 24 hours after a flood, so take prompt action to prevent its growth.
Removing items from water and drying them as soon as possible is crucial to avoid losing them to mold. In severe cases, you will need to completely remove the mold-affected areas.
Mold will appear in damp areas such as your closet, basement, showers, and similar places. Seeking professional assistance with drying can significantly lower the chances of getting mold and ensure a more effective restoration process.
9. Sanitize Your Property
Once all the water and wet materials have been removed, it’s time to clean and disinfect all surfaces. Use a commercial disinfectant or a mixture of water and bleach to sanitize all affected areas, including walls, floors, and furniture.
Get Back on Track by Moving Quickly and Getting Help From Professionals
Restoration is not just about repairing the physical damage to your property but also about restoring your sense of security and peace of mind. By taking the right steps, such as contacting a reputable restoration service and properly sanitizing your property, you can recover from water damage and confidently move forward.
Don’t let water damage discourage you – take action and restore your property to its former glory in no time. Good luck!
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