Repairing water damage isn’t an easy job, so it’s better to prevent them than to repair them. But if the damage has already been done, then you’re going to need to act fast to avoid any additional repercussions. Here are a few ways to help you do just that:
- Understand What’s Wrong
The first thing you need to do is understand the nature of the water problem. Is it a broken septic tank? A leaking pipe? There’s likely a reason behind the leak or flooding, and the severity of the problem will determine what you should do. For instance, if you have a leaking pipe, then you’d want to go ahead and find a way to stop the leak as soon as possible. Once you know where the water is coming from, you’ll be in a better position to address the issue.
- Protect Yourself And Your Valuables
If the water damage is coming from a dangerous source such as a flood, then you should make sure you unplug all your electrical devices and switch off your circuit breakers to avoid electrical shocks.
Try to remember all the easily accessible areas where you keep some of your most valuable documents or belongings and assess whether it’ll be possible to save them. It might also be necessary to evacuate your house if you’re at further risk of another flood. If the water damage is coming from a leak or an in-house accident, then you might be able to act more calmly, though even then, speed is of the essence.
- Get A Professional Help
No matter how thorough you think you can be, there are just going to be areas around your house you either can’t suspect or can’t reach without expert tools. A professional will, from years of experience and training, know all the areas to look out for and the best ways to handle them without making the damage worse.
If you’re going to hire a water damage restoration company in Sanford to help you with your water damage repairs, then it’s important that you find one with eco-friendly products. When possible, it’s best to use only products which don’t contain toxic chemicals. It’s also a good idea to find a company that offers a guarantee on their work. That way, you’d be assured you’re dealing with people who trust in the quality of their work and that you’re getting value for your money.
- Look For Any Hidden Moisture
In response to water damage, it’s always a good idea to be as thorough as you can. If you’re dealing with small-scale water damage, then you could be able to do it on your own. But if the damage has extended to many parts of your home, then it might be a good idea to call a licensed plumber.
Before you do that, for areas you’re sure you can get rid of the moisture yourself, you can use a dehumidifier or a fan to help you dry out the area. Drying materials such as carpets and wood will also prevent mold from growing. Wood is especially vulnerable after it’s been exposed to moisture. If you have a wooden floor and they’re now beyond saving, then you’ll probably be better off thinking about a different flooring material.
- Inspect For Mold
After your house has been exposed to moisture, one of your biggest enemies is going to be mold. Make sure you inspect all areas for any signs of mold. Check if there are wet areas around the house and if the walls and other areas around the house are already moldy. It’s also a good idea to check for areas that have been damp for a long time such as areas with carpets or tiles. Areas like these keep moisture longer and are more vulnerable.
- Have Drywall Repairs
Even if you’re able to repair some of the damaged parts yourself, you might not be aware that there’s still another part to the repair job: drywall repair. Drywall repair services will take care of all the messy stuff such as caulking cracks and holes. Aside from that, they’ll also check the surrounding areas for dampness and fix them if needed.
With this, you no longer have to worry about the damage caused by the water, and you don’t have to worry about fixing the damage yourself.
- Make Sure You Disinfect
A great and organic way to remove and disinfect your house after it’s been wrecked by water is to use chemicals such as bleach and detergents. Both of these chemicals are effective at removing mold from your walls and other areas.
- Restore The Affected Areas
If you think the mold has already spread, then the only solution might be to tear down affected areas and restore them using hydrophobic or mold-resistant insulation and materials.
One common method includes using mineral wool. You can easily get this product from a local home improvement store or you can order it online. For your best chance of getting a perfect restoration job, you should only contact reputable companies who specialize in this type of work.
It’s best that you call a few different companies before settling on one, so you’ll know that you’re getting the best deal. If a company offers you guarantees, don’t hesitate to sign them because they’re usually a good indication that you’re dealing with an expert.
Conclusion
When your house has been invaded by moisture, no matter the cause, it’s always a good idea to act as fast as you can. Make sure you find where the water is coming from first, so you can stop it at the source before proceeding. Of course, you might not be fully confident you can do this yourself. This is because, depending on the extent of the damage, handling water damage can really take a professional to fix, so try to call an expert.
Nonetheless, you should check for moisture in both obvious and hidden places. Check for mold and restore anything that you can. Consider the ideas mentioned here as you take good care of your home.
