People often associate restoration with fire damage, but water damage is also widespread. Whether a person needs emergency restoration services or not, it's essential to understand what water damage is, the different types, and how to minimize the damage. Water damage is a broad term that can refer to anything from a broken pipe to a flood. The kind of damage that is done will determine the necessary restoration steps.
Types of Water Damage
Water damage can be classified into three categories:
Clean water: caused by freshwater like a broken pipe. This usually results in little to no damage to the building. The damaged area must be cleaned and dried as soon as possible to prevent mold growth.
Gray water: caused by dishwashing water, washing machine water, or water from a toilet with urine but no feces. This type of water can cause more damage than clean water as it contains contaminants.
Blackwater: caused by sewage or any other type of contaminated water. This usually requires more extensive restoration efforts since the entire area must be cleaned and disinfected.
What to do
There are a few things one can do to minimize water damage before professional help arrives:
Shut off the water if possible
A person can minimize water damage by shutting off the water supply as quickly as possible. If a person cannot shut it off, they should evacuate the building immediately to prevent further damage.
Pump out the water
A pump can be used to remove any standing water before it spreads. This should be done quickly to prevent mold growth and further damage. The pumped water needs to be directed away from the building.
Dry the area quickly
Humidity can speed up mold growth, so a person must dry the area as quickly as possible. This can be done with fans, dehumidifiers, or heaters. Remove any excess water by using a vacuum or mop.
Clean the area
It's essential to clean any affected areas as soon as possible to prevent mold growth. This can be done with a household cleaner or bleach.
Disinfect the area
If black water is present, it's vital to disinfect the area with a bleach solution to prevent the spread of bacteria and viruses. Use caution as bleach can damage some surfaces
Take out any affected drywall or flooring
Any drywall or flooring that comes in contact with contaminated water should be removed. This can ensure there is no further damage to the property and that the area can be adequately cleaned and dried. You can remove them by using a screwdriver.
Open windows and doors
This will help air out the building and speed up the drying process. Air circulation can help to prevent the growth of mold and other contaminants.
Remove furniture and carpet
Furniture that has been exposed to dirty water should be removed and cleaned. The sooner the furniture is removed from the affected area, the easier it will be to clean and dry. Carpets should be removed and cleaned as quickly as possible. If they are not able to be saved, they should be replaced.
Hang wet items on a clothesline or place them in a dryer on the air or tumble dry setting
Clothing, bedding, and other fabrics that come into contact with water should be hung up outside on a clothesline. If a person doesn't have time to do this, they can also put them in a dryer on the air or tumble dry setting.
Make a list of damaged items
It's important to keep track of all the items that have been damaged due to the water. This can help with insurance claims and ensure that they are replaced.
Take photos of the damaged area
Photos of the affected area can help document any damage and make insurance claims easier.
Contact the insurance company
It's important to contact the insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Many companies have a 24-hour hotline specifically for claims.
Contact a restoration company
If the damage is extensive, it may be best to contact a restoration company to speed up the process. Water damage can be very disruptive, so it's essential to contact a restoration company quickly.
Water damage can be a devastating event, but it can be repaired with quick action and professional restoration services. It's important to do what one can to minimize the damage before emergency restoration services are needed. If you need help, check on restoration1.com. They are an online directory of restoration companies across the country. You can find a company in your area and get started on repairing the damage.
