When dealing with water damage to your home or business, it doesn’t matter if the spill is large or small. The simple goal is always the same, to clean the water and dry out everything. This needs to be performed as soon as possible after the harm has happened. It is very important that you act fast.
Of course, acting quickly doesn’t mean acting ignorantly. Much of what is needed to properly address water damage can be cared for right now, before disaster strikes and leaves you cool deep in raw sewage. Taking the time to be certain that your insurance covers water related issues is wise. Remember that in the event the problem can be traced back to homeowner neglect, then it will not be covered.
Transfer appliances and precious items to higher floors, and elevate power outlets and electrical boxes into higher wall places. Of course, none of this will ensure less harm to your home, but then it can’t hurt.
Water damage restoration is an involved, multi-layered procedure, consisting of specific steps that have to be taken in a particular sequence to ensure success. Failure to do so will result in some of the subsequent problems listed above.
Whatever the magnitude of the spill, the process can be broken down into four basic steps:
Water Extraction – this is the procedure for eliminating the excess water out of the premises and is typically done via the use of a wet-dry vacuum device or gas powered gas pump. No electrical pumps should be used, nor attempt to use your regular vacuum cleaner to remove water. You’ll just wind up buying a new vacuum. Trust me.
If the flood is in your cellar, be careful not to pump out the water too quickly. This could lead to abrupt pressure fluctuations that may weaken your cellar walls, making them prone to collapse. Pump out the water at the speed of approximately 1/3 per day. The majority of the water may be removed via the water extraction procedure.
Secondary Drying – after the excess water is out, surfaces may seem dry, but a cursory touch will reveal that they are not. They will retain a substantial amount of water, and the only way to dry it out is via the circulation of air. Open all windows and doors to get air moving throughout the home. Bring in many high-velocity fans and blowers (the more the merrier) and dehumidifiers to help the process along. Move the units around every few hours to ensure total drying coverage, and let a couple of days for the process to complete.
Damaged items must be taken out of the area and repaired elsewhere. They may require cleanup, and in some cases, disinfecting. In circumstances of sewage established water damage, it may become an issue of determining what could be salvaged and what should be thrown out.
Restoration – this is the procedure of taking good care of the nice detail components designed to return your home to its pre-loss condition. Now the residence is prepared to welcome its inhabitants back.
Of course, the process might be more difficult than described, particularly in bigger cases of water damage, but the general idea and management remain unchanged. The procedure may also occur over a period of days or perhaps weeks, again, depending on the dimensions. The scope of the project alone makes it beyond the skills of most homeowners.
That is the reason you should contact your regional IICRC certified professional restoration. They’re available 24/7 to support all your flood restoration and water damage needs. A telephone call gets a technician to your home within the hour, ready to assess your situation and begin water restoration procedures immediately.
To find out more about home food safety, check out the way to protect your home from flooding and what to do after a basement flood. For flooding water damage repair and mold remediation service, speak to the PuroClean St Charles office.
