Water damage can be a devastating experience for homeowners and businesses alike. Whether it’s due to a flood, burst pipe, or natural disaster, the effects can be overwhelming. In such situations, it is essential to call a professional water damage restoration company that knows about their water damage restoration services to mitigate the damage and prevent further problems.
Has your home or business suffered water damage due to floods or a faulty plumbing system? We recommend hiring a professional restoration company to extract that water and clean it up. And while you’re at it, here are some top steps for water clean-up and extraction to expect from a professional restoration company:
Safety Assessment
The first step in any water damage restoration process is to assess the safety of the affected area. Water damage can weaken the structural integrity of a building, so it is important to ensure the area is safe for workers and occupants. A professional restoration company will thoroughly inspect the area and take necessary safety precautions.
Water Extraction
Once the safety assessment is complete, the next step is to remove the standing water as quickly as possible. The longer the water sits, the more damage it can cause to the building and its contents. A restoration company will use powerful pumps and vacuums to effectively extract water from the affected area.
Moisture Detection
After the water is extracted, restoration contractors may use specialized equipment to detect any remaining moisture in the affected area. Moisture detection is crucial to prevent further damage, such as mold growth, which can occur if the area is not properly dried.
Drying and Dehumidification
Once the moisture is detected, the next step is to start the drying and dehumidification process. Restoration contractors use industrial-strength dehumidifiers and air movers to remove the remaining moisture from the affected area. Please note that this step may take several days, depending on the extent of the water damage.
Cleaning and Sanitizing
After the area is thoroughly dried, the restoration contractors should clean and sanitize the affected surfaces and items. This will help prevent any mold or bacteria growth that may occur due to the water damage. Restoration contractors use specialized equipment and cleaning agents to ensure the area is completely sanitized.
Restoration and Reconstruction
The final step in the water damage restoration process is to restore and reconstruct the affected area. A professional restoration company will work with you to return the area to its pre-loss condition. This may include replacing drywall, flooring, and other damaged materials.
Difference Between Mitigating Water Damage and Water Damage Restoration
Water damage can cause significant damage to properties, and the process of restoring the affected property can be quite complex. However, two common terms that people use interchangeably but are not the same are “mitigating water damage” and “water damage restoration.” We’ve discussed mitigating water damage above, so here’s what you need to know about water damage restoration;
Water Damage Restoration
Water damage restoration is the process of restoring the affected property to its pre-loss condition. It involves several steps and can take some time to complete. The following are the services involved in water damage restoration:
- Structural Repair
Structural repair involves repairing or replacing the structural components of the affected property. This includes walls, floors, ceilings, and any other structural elements that may have been damaged by water.
- Content Restoration
Content restoration involves restoring the items that were affected by water damage. This includes furniture, appliances, electronics, and any other content in the affected area. Content restoration can be done using specialized equipment and techniques.
- Odor Removal
This involves removing any unpleasant smells caused by water damage. This step is important as it helps to restore the indoor air quality of the affected property. Odor removal can be done using specialized equipment and cleaning agents.
- Final Inspection
After water damage restoration, the contractors will inspect the property to ensure it has been fully restored to its pre-damage condition. This step is crucial in ensuring that your property is safe for habitation and use.
A reputable water restoration company will offer both water damage mitigation and water damage restoration services. If you’re looking to hire a full-service company, check first to ensure they offer all the services you need.
Water damage can be a traumatic experience, but a professional water damage restoration company can help alleviate the stress and damage. They will follow these top steps to ensure your property is restored to its pre-loss condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.