If you experience water damage in your home, it can be a huge disruption. From ruined building materials to mold growth and wrecked furniture, it’s important to act quickly when disaster strikes. While there are many things you can do on your own, like turning off the water source and electricity, a professional Water Damage Mitigation service can be a valuable partner in cleanup efforts. They’ll assess the situation and take steps to minimize the damage before it gets out of hand.
Water damage is categorized by its source and the type of contamination that’s present. If the water is coming from a clean, sanitary source, it falls into Category 1 or clean water damage. However, if the water is coming from a contaminated source, it’s categorized as Category 2 or grey water damage. Category 2 water damage may contain microorganisms and organic or inorganic material that can cause illness. This could be anything from a broken toilet tank to overflowing laundry machines.
Once a professional team is on the scene, they’ll shut off the water supply and begin pumping out the standing water. They’ll also use fans and dehumidifiers to remove any excess moisture from the area. It’s important to get the water out as quickly as possible because drywall, carpeting and wood can start developing problems within 24 hours of being exposed to water.
During this phase, the technicians will also check for electrical and structural damage and perform any emergency repairs. They’ll also work with insurance companies to help you file a claim if necessary.
Once the water is removed, the next step is to dry out the affected areas. This is done using high-powered industrial equipment like air movers, axial fans and desiccant dehumidifiers. It’s important to have the right equipment for this because flood water can carry harmful bacteria, viruses, fungi and chemicals that can cause various health issues. This includes skin irritation, eye irritation, headaches, fatigue, nausea and vomiting. It’s also important to protect yourself when working in an area that has been affected by water damage, especially if you’re dealing with Category 2 or Category 3 water.
After the drying process is complete, the technician will return to do a walkthrough of the affected area with you. They’ll show you the readings that prove the area is dried and reassure you that your home is safe to return to.
The Water Damage Mitigation process can seem overwhelming, but the professionals are there to guide you every step of the way. They can handle everything from inspection and assessment to water extraction and structural drying. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local restoration experts.