Water damage can be devastating, leading to costly repairs and long-term problems like mold. If your home has been affected by water damage, it’s important to take the right course of action in order to minimize the damage and restore your home back to its original condition. The pros at Dr. Quick Dry give professional advice on the best course of action when dealing with water damage and how to ensure a successful outcome.
Table of Contents
Find and Stop the Source of the Water
The first and most critical step in dealing with water damage is to stop the source of the water. If the source of water is a broken pipe or an overflowing appliance, turn off the water supply immediately to prevent further damage. If the source of water is heavy rain or a flood, take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If you have homeowner’s insurance, you should contact your insurance company as soon as possible after water damage occurs. They will guide you through the process of making a claim and assist you in finding a reputable water damage restoration company.
Document the Damage
Before you start the cleanup process, it is imperative to document the damage by taking pictures and videos. This will help you when making a claim with your insurance company and ensure that all of the damage is documented.
Remove Standing Water
Standing water should be removed as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Use a wet/dry vacuum or mop to remove standing water and fans or dehumidifiers to dry the affected areas.
Clean and Disinfect
Once standing water has been removed, it is critical to clean and disinfect the affected areas to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Use a solution of water and mild detergent to clean the surfaces, then disinfect the area with water and bleach.
Dry the Affected Area
Drying the affected area is critical to preventing further damage, such as mold growth. Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry the affected area, and open windows and doors to increase airflow. You may also consider removing wet carpet, flooring, and drywall to speed up the drying process.
Remove Damaged Items
Items that have been damaged by water, such as furniture and household items, should be removed from the affected area. This will help prevent further damage and allow easier cleanup and restoration.
Seek Professional Help
If the water damage is extensive, it is recommended to seek the help of a professional water damage restoration company. They have the equipment and expertise necessary to properly remove the water and restore your home to its pre-damage condition.
Store Valuable Items
Valuable items, such as documents, photographs, and electronics, should be stored in a safe place to prevent further damage. This may mean storing them in a waterproof container or taking them to a safe location until water damage has been repaired.
Check for Mold
After water damage has been cleaned up, it is important to check for mold growth. Mold can grow in as little as 48 hours, so it is critical to check for mold growth. It is also imperative to have it removed as soon as possible if it is present.
Monitor the Affected Area
The affected area should be monitored for several days to ensure it is drying properly. If you notice any signs of mold growth or if the area does not seem to be drying, contact a professional water damage restoration company for assistance.
Make the Necessary Repairs
Once the affected area has been cleaned, disinfected, and dried, it is time to make any necessary repairs. This may mean replacing damaged flooring, drywall, and other building materials.
