We’ve already established how dangerous water damage can be to your home and health. We’ve also alerted you to what you need to look out for to effectively tell if you do have water damage. Now, let’s look at the basic measures you need to take once you find water damage in your home.
Water can begin damaging your home within minutes of infiltration. After hours, days, and weeks, it may already have done its worst. In this post, we give you tips on how to deal with water damage in its different stages.
After a Disaster or Flood
The first thing you need to do is to stop the source of water, if you can. If the flooding is caused by a burst pipe or a malfunctioning water heater, for instance, shut off the main water line and get in touch with a professional immediately, especially if you cannot detect where the source is.
If your home is already flooded, make sure to shut off the electricity and gas lines as well. Assess the situation, and before you start or attempt cleaning up, make sure to document everything as clearly as possible. Take photos, and make a comprehensive list to show your insurance company.
Rescue and keep your valuable possessions – but don’t exhaust yourself cleaning individual items just yet. Get rid of any standing water, clean up debris, and allow everything else to air dry.
Finally, call a home improvement and restoration professional who can help you perform a more thorough inspection of the damage.
When Mold and Mildew Are Suspected
Not all the effects of water damage can immediately be seen right after the actual water infiltration. Sometimes, we aren’t even aware that there’s any water damage till we see mold and mildew growth. You may require the services of a professional to assess your home and to detect the at-times-unseen mold and mildew growth in your home. Professionals can provide a full and complete assessment to guide you in finding the most cost-effective ways to resolve your issues. Where you might have gone overboard and spent overmuch to replace certain components of your home, a professional could tell you that simply giving some areas a thorough scrub could, in fact, do the trick.
Keep in mind, too, that cleaning out mold and mildew by yourself may also be hazardous to your health. Make it a point to wear and use the right gear or, better yet, opt for assistance from professional cleaners.
Preventing Future Problems
After you’ve dealt with the apparent effects of water damage, it will be best to protect your home and prepare it for the prevention of future problems. One way to do this is by having a reliable contractor refit your house – particularly the more susceptible parts of it such as walls, ceiling, and flooring – with water-resistant materials. Regularly check for leaks and cracks as well. Fix faulty plumbing and related components immediately, and ensure that your drainage pipes and gutters are clear of any blockage.