13 Essential Points on Undertaking Water Damage Repair
6/6/2018 (Permalink)
13 Things You Should Know About Water Damage Repair
Water is a symbol of well-being for humanity and their surroundings. Its resources are useful to us up until mother nature fights back with storm or flooding. Storm surges, excessive rain or devastating flood are the main sources of water and storm damage. It is the worst condition that any homeowner can face and this is where water damage restoration process becomes crucial, lengthy and painstaking, but not for SERVPRO of Upper Cape Cod and the Islands.
There are many reasons of residential water damage. The most common reason is failure of sump pump, following broken or leaked pipes, washing machine overflow, flood waters or clogged toilets, etc. Moreover, this damage may also be caused due to the ongoing corrosion of the building structure. This leads towards a more destructive processes i.e. rusting of steel, growth of mold, decaying of wood, discoloration of walls, etc. In short, it is a major contributor to loss of property.
Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind:
Shut Down Electricity
Whenever water damage ensues at your property, always shut off the main electricity to prevent accidents and hazards.
Shut Off Water Source
If you find any water leaks through pipes or dishwasher, immediately close taps. Assess the area and do water damage repair.
Wear Safety Gear
Before the water damage and mold restoration professionals step in, carefully inspect the area with proper safety gear to protect yourself.
Remove Damaged Material
If porous materials like fabric and carpets have been soaked in water due to water leakage, you should cut them out, wash them and keep them out in a dry place. However, in some cases shrinking and warping of these materials causes irreversible damage. Also, do not try to pick up water-soaked fabric as it gets considerably heavy.
Inspect Mold Growth
Inspect damaged materials for mildew and mold growth, as it can grow in as little as 24 hours. You need to be aware of toxic mold that might cause health concerns. Don’t try to remove it by yourself. Call for professional help.
Dry Affected Area
Remove moisture from the affected area. You can use fans to circulate air in the damaged areas. If water damage is in large scale, ask SERVPRO crew to dry out carpets, furniture and other affected materials.
Disinfect Damaged Area
Disinfect area to destroy bacteria settled on your furniture, walls and other items.
Check Damage to Ceilings
Constant and unnoticed moisture on the ceilings might cause it to collapse. Therefore, remove damaged ceiling panels first and find out the true source of leak, ensuring no structural damage to rafters.
Exchange Rotten Wood
Exchange rotten woods. Mold or mildew developed on wood flooring must be replaced. Do thorough cleaning with the help of professionals.
Install New Floors
Insulations and underlayment are particularly susceptible to water damage. Moisture trapped underneath is more than often evident of floor damage. Install new waterproof flooring in that particular area.
Paint Your Property
Apply fresh coat of paint after replacement of materials to minimize future water damage.
Claim Property Insurance
If water damage is at disastrous level, you can file insurance claim. Photograph items and areas damaged by water as proof and document the pictures along with insurance statement. Our professionals will help you through the procedure.
Contact Restoration Company
Water damage restoration companies such as SERVPRO are available 24/7 to serve you with highly trained professionals. They clean damaged area efficiently with latest equipment to give you high-quality results.
Every inch of water damage can deteriorate your property over time. So, get the help of professionals from SERVPRO of Upper Cape Cod and the Islands today by calling at (508) 888-5985.