Pivotal Tips and Ideas for Water Damage Repair and Restoration

Large-scale water damage can be a nightmare for homeowners. It can be dangerous and expensive.

• Drywall and wood Studs
• Framing
• Carpet is a popular flooring material.
• Ceiling materials like plaster and sheetrock are possible to be used.
• Other utility system include piping, wiring, and other connections
• Most appliances
• HVAC systems
• Insulation
• Plus, many more

There are many things you can do to reduce water damage and prevent further damage.

Learn about the Differences between Water Types

According to the Natural Resource Defense Council, there are three types contaminated water that can cause damage to your home. These include clean water (Category 1), grey water (Category 2), and blackwater (Category 3).

Each type of water has its risks and hazards. Some water may need professional assistance.

Water purification

Category 1 water can also be called freshwater, clean water, or snow runoff. It is a result of rain, leaky pipes, and condensation. However, it can still cause property damage.

Clean water is generally free of harmful chemicals and hazardous substances. Minor damage can occur such as a leaking pipe or a damaged seal.

In certain situations, clean water can cause serious damage. Clean water can be removed using most DIY methods. It costs between $3.75 to $4.50 per square foot.

Grey-water

Grey water is sometimes called gray water, or Category 2 water. It’s caused by washing machines and sinks that have been used. Grey water contamination can come from many sources. The quality of grey water will also affect its source.

Grey water can still be cleaned at home, but you will need to take extra precautions than with clean water. Greywater removal costs between $4.00 and $6.50 per square foot if you use a service.

Blackwater

Blackwater is the most hazardous type of domestic wastewater. It is produced by sewage systems and toilets, as well as from flooding from rivers or lakes.

• Urine
• Fecal matter
• Organisms which cause disease
• Toxic substances
• Bacteria
• Viruses
• Molds
• Protozoans
• Other pathogens

This kind of wastewater poses a serious risk to your health. This type of wastewater should only be handled by trained professionals with the right equipment.

Blackwater flooding requires that porous materials like drywall, carpeting, and upholstered furniture are removed. This is due to their unsanitary nature.

Disconnect the power and turn off the water supply.

Locate the source of flooding/a leak, and then turn it off.

A burst pipe located within a wall, ceiling or floor can be difficult to locate. The shutoff valve looks like a small circular wheel. Turn the wheel until the water stops flowing.

You will need to turn off your water main in order to prevent unseen pipes from leaking into your home. You will find them anywhere you look.

If the water doesn’t come out of the pipe, it may be that the water is still in your home’s plumbing system. Turn off all showerheads to reduce water loss.

Take out water

Pool pumps are the best choice for large amounts of standing water. For smaller amounts of water, you can use a vacuum cleaner or large mop bucket to drain it.

Watch out for mold

If it is allowed to grow in the right conditions (e.g. Floods and severe water damage can cause mold growth in homes. Mold can quickly grow when exposed to moisture.

Mold can grow under carpets and behind appliances.

Molds can cause long-term problems like memory loss, fatigue, asthmatic inflammations, and memory loss.

While small amounts of mold can sometimes be controlled, it is best to avoid entering the area.

Remove porous and damaged materials

Porous materials should be removed in case of flooding or severe water damage.

Particularly in cases of greywater damage or blackwater, these porous materials can’t be saved.

• Drywall
• Carpet
• Upholstered Furniture
• Insulation
• Mattresses
• Rugs

You can save small items by cleaning them quickly and thoroughly. Any item that is too big to be washed in a washer will get mildewy.

Deep Clean Surfaces

Once everything is removed, you can disinfect the flooded surfaces with a bleach solution. These bleach solutions kill bacteria and prevent mold growth on solid surfaces.

Once you have put on your clothes and got the bleach solution, clean any surfaces immediately.

Determine the extent of damage

After you have cleaned everything up, the hard part starts. You will now need to assess the extent and severity of the flooding.

Water damage may range from minor to serious depending on the amount of water left behind and how long the water has been allowed to spread.

Ceilings

Ceilings are at greatest risk from water absorption into porous materials.

Small leaks can cause sagging or spots. Small leaks can lead to spots or minor sagging.

Flooring

Flooring is susceptible to water damage. It is possible to damage almost all components of your floor including padding and joists.

Supports and joists can cause severe damage. Wood can absorb moisture quickly, which can lead us to warping, cracking and swelling.

To assess the extent and damage to the carpet, you will need to remove the carpet from the floorboards and take down the ceiling. You can see below the extent of damage, which is a good sign. A professional should be consulted if you feel that major renovations may be necessary.

Drywall

Drywall becomes brittle when water seeps in. This is because drywall absorbs moisture very well, which can lead to mold growth and sagging. A section of drywall that isn’t covered can be removed and replaced with another. The entire sheet must be taken down if it is higher than 2.5 feet.

Caulking and Seals

You will need to seal everything after you have installed the new materials. Flooding can cause water damage to caulking and seals in affected areas. It is a good idea inspect any areas that have been replaced completely and to reseal them.

Get Homeowners Insurance

Severe flooding damage can be too costly to handle on your own. Major, unforeseeable events like burst pipes or broken water mains are likely to be covered. Minor causes like leaky pipes or damaged appliances won’t be covered.

Floods caused by natural disasters, or “acts of God”, as the insurance companies refer to them by their customers, are not covered under standard policies. A flood insurance policy can assist with water damage restoration.

Water damage and restoration services are not covered by home warranties. They can be used to repair the source of damage, such as a leaky pipe, a damaged appliance, or a defective seal.

Conclusion

Water damage may be one of the most costly and difficult problems homeowners have to deal with. Water damage can lead to serious health issues and require immediate action. You can quickly take action and stay cool in the face of any disaster.