When your home is affected by water damage, it’s important to take immediate action. Standing water doesn’t just cause structural damage; it breeds bacteria and other pathogens that can be hazardous to your family’s health. In addition, it doesn’t take long for the water to penetrate building materials and start affecting the integrity of your home’s structure. If you’re concerned about the state of your home’s water damage, you should seek out a professional restoration company. A reputable restoration company will follow proper protocols to minimize the amount of water damage that occurs.
Water Damage Restoration – The Process
The first step in any water damage repair is stopping the source of the water infiltration and minimizing the amount of water that enters the building. Once this is done, the professionals will begin removing the water from the property. This will involve removing porous materials, such as drywall and carpet padding, that have been damaged by the water.
In most cases, the professionals will also remove and dispose of any items that are unsalvageable. These items may include furniture, books, paintings, clothing, and other personal belongings. In some cases, the professionals will be able to salvage these items and restore them using techniques that can reduce or eliminate bacteria and other pathogens.
Once the unsalvageable materials have been removed, the professionals will work to dry out and sanitize the remaining items in your home. This is done by using a variety of drying and cleaning methods, including dehumidifiers, scrub brushes, and other commercial-grade equipment. This process can take several days, and in some cases, weeks.
After the area has been dried and sanitized, the restoration team will begin making repairs to the building’s structural components if necessary. This can be very complex and time-consuming, but it’s essential to ensure the safety of your family. The professionals will use specialized tools to make these repairs, and they may also need to replace materials, such as drywall or flooring, that have been permanently damaged by the water.
There are many factors that affect how long it takes to do a water damage restoration. Depending on the size of your home, the type of flooring you have, and the level of water damage, it could take anywhere from a few days to several months. If you’re concerned about your home’s water damage, it’s best to contact a professional restoration service provider right away. A reputable IICRC-certified company will have access to advanced equipment and will be able to restore your home quickly and thoroughly. They will be able to find any hidden leaks, fix them, and return your home to its pre-loss condition as soon as possible.