Water Damage Restoration Entails

Water damage can be extremely stressful for homeowners. Whether it’s a flood caused by a natural disaster or a burst pipe that leaves you with a home full of soaking wet belongings, the impact can be devastating. The good news is that the right water damage restoration company can save your property and possessions. Having an understanding of what water damage restoration actually involves can help you better prepare for the process.

The first thing to do in any case of water damage is to make sure that your family, friends, and pets are safe. If it’s possible, then you should also shut off electricity and gas connections to prevent further danger during the restoration. Once all of the safety issues are taken care of it’s time to call in the professionals.

While a homeowner may be tempted to take on the cleanup themselves, this is usually not a wise idea. Not only can it lead to hidden moisture damage and expensive repairs down the road but it could also be a health hazard for family members. It’s typically best to leave the job to professionals who have years of experience in dealing with all kinds of water damage situations.

What Water Damage Restoration Entails

Once the professionals are on the job, they’ll start by assessing the water damage. They’ll use sophisticated tools to determine how far the water has penetrated into a structure and then they’ll begin removing the excess water from the property. They’ll also use fans to help circulate the air and dehumidifiers to extract any lingering moisture. This step can often take a week or more depending on the size of the affected area.

After the water is removed the next step is to disinfect the affected areas. This is a vital part of the process as it helps to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria such as mold and mildew. It’s also important to note that a house or building that has been impacted by water damage will likely need to be inspected for structural damage as well.

The final step is to restore the property to a condition that it was in prior to the water damage incident. This can include everything from cleaning and sanitizing furniture to re-caulking walls and floors. If the property is very old or damaged it can also involve replacing entire sections of the structure. The total restoration timeline can take a month or more, especially if the property is large or has sustained extensive water damage. The cost of the restoration will vary depending on the type and extent of damage, geographical location, labor costs, and other factors.

Water damage restoration is a complex and time-consuming process. It consists of two distinct phases: cleaning and repairing the affected area. It’s essential to contact a professional as soon as possible to minimize the damage and reduce the cost of repair. In some cases, the insurance company may cover the cost of restoration. However, it’s important to take steps to document the damage in case the claim is denied. The best way to do this is by taking photographs and videos of the damage.