04 May Dealing with Water Damage from Cracked or Damaged Water Main Lines
Homeowners can face a major problem if their water main is damaged or cracked. This can lead to damage on the property and high water bills. We will cover the steps to take in this blog post if you have water damage due to cracked or damaged water mains.
Step 1: Cut off the water supply
To deal with water damage caused by a cracked or damaged main water line, the first step is to shut off the water. Usually, you can turn off the main water supply valve located in the utility room or basement of your home. You can contact a plumber for help if you’re unable to find the main water faucet.
Step 2: Call in a plumber
As soon as the water is turned off, you should call a professional to fix it. A licensed plumber can assess the damage, and determine what the best course of repair is for the water main.
Step 3: Document any damage
It is important that you document any water damage before calling a plumber. Take pictures or videos of the damaged areas and any personal property. Documentation can be useful when filing a claim with an insurer for damage.
Step 4: Dry off the affected area
To prevent mold from growing, you should dry out the affected area after the plumber repairs the water main. Fans and dehumidifiers can be used to help the area dry. You should also remove any materials that are not salvageable, such as furniture or carpet.
Step 5: Clean the area
It is essential to disinfect the affected area after it has dried to avoid bacteria and mould growth. To clean affected areas, use a water-bleach solution. Make sure you wear gloves and a face mask.
Step 6: Consider prevention measures
Consider preventative measures, such as having the water main line checked regularly by a licensed plumber. A water main break can also be quickly stopped by installing an emergency shutoff valve.
Summary
It can be stressful and overwhelming to deal with water damage due to a damaged or broken water main. You can prevent future damage by following the steps described in this blog. Turn off the water and call a professional to dry out the damaged areas, disinfect them, and document the damage.