These helpful Water Damage Restoration Tips from ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons are important! Before entering a flooded building, make sure it’s safe! Check for electrical hazards. Before you start any construction or repairs, check for dangerous chemicals like lead paint and asbestos, which require professional contractors. Below are some helpful tips when faced with a water damage:
- Act quickly
The damage gets worse the longer water sits and contents stay wet. Mold will grow within 48-72 hours, so remove moisture and dry out the environment within 48 hours. Call your insurance agent and understand your insurance policy.
- Stop the source of water
Check to find out where the water is coming from. Is it a broken pipe? A sewer back-up? Call a plumber immediately to stop the water flow.
- Document the water damage by taking photos.
Take photos.
Photos are important to have to remember how the damage occurred.
- Air out affected areas to prevent mold growth.
Mold loves moisture and materials such as paper. In order to slow down damage, open windows, run fans to keep air moving, and maintain room temperature.
- Assess damaged items and building materials.
Assess the type of water that is present. In water damages where bacteria, sewage, mold are present, an inspection should be conducted by an appropriately trained specialist.
- Expose wet areas.
Open hidden areas for cleaning and drying. Remove wet layers between building materials. Wet carpets can be sometimes dried by professionals, but carpet padding should be thrown away. Wood baseboards and hardwood floors can be saved with the right drying equipment.
- Conduct a thorough cleaning.
Clean durable building materials like hardwood floors or joists with cleaning products and or detergents to remove possible bacteria from contaminated water.
- Dry before rebuilding.
To prevent further damage, do not cover wood and other wet materials until dry. A water restoration professional will make sure all areas are dry before rebuilding.
As always, contact ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons for water damage restoration at 855-9-SIMONS
