31 Jan Before the Pros Arrive: Preparing Your Home for Water Damage Restoration
Water damage is a devastating event, often leading to the unwelcome guest of mold growth. Before you call in the water damage restoration professionals, there are steps you can take to prepare your home and minimize the extent of the damage. This preliminary cleanup will make the restoration process more efficient and potentially less costly. However, most Long Beach Water Damage Restoration companies will alway tell you to remember that safety is paramount—if you have any health concerns or the damage is extensive, contact professionals immediately.
Understanding Your Limitations
It’s crucial to understand that you should only attempt to clean up surface-level water and minor debris. If the water damage is extensive (e.g., standing water, significant saturation of walls or flooring), or if you suspect mold growth beyond a small, superficial area, you should not attempt to clean it yourself. Professional intervention is necessary in these cases.
Safety First
Before you begin any cleanup, prioritize your safety. Wear protective gear, including:
- Rubber boots: Protect your feet from contaminated water.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from waterborne bacteria and chemicals.
- Eye protection: Shield your eyes from splashes and debris.
- N95 respirator: If mold is present, an N95 respirator will help prevent inhaling mold spores. (Note: This is particularly important if the water is from a source that might contain sewage or other contaminants.)
Assessing the Damage
Before cleaning, thoroughly assess the extent of the water damage. Identify the source of the water and the areas affected. Take photos and videos to document the damage; this will be helpful for insurance claims and the restoration company.
Removing Standing Water
If there’s standing water, carefully remove it using pumps, buckets, and mops. Dispose of the contaminated water properly according to local regulations. Never use a vacuum cleaner to remove standing water, as this can damage the appliance and potentially spread contaminants.
Removing Debris
Remove any loose debris, such as furniture, rugs, and other items that are easily movable. These items may be salvageable after professional cleaning and drying, but it’s best to remove them from the affected area to allow for proper drying and cleaning.
Surface Cleaning
For minor water damage on non-porous surfaces, you can use a mild detergent solution to clean the affected areas. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely using fans and dehumidifiers.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t use bleach: While bleach might seem like a good disinfectant, it can damage certain materials and is not always effective against all types of bacteria and mold.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals: These can exacerbate the damage and create health hazards.
- Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself without professional equipment: Improper drying can lead to mold growth.
- Don’t enter areas with standing water or significant structural damage without proper safety gear.
Preparing for the Professionals
Once you’ve completed the safe and appropriate preliminary cleanup, contact a water damage restoration company. Provide them with photos and videos of the damage, and answer their questions accurately. Clear the affected area to allow for easy access.
Conclusion
While you can take some preliminary steps to clean up after water damage, it’s crucial to understand your limitations. Extensive damage requires professional expertise. By taking appropriate safety precautions and focusing on surface-level cleanup, you can help expedite the restoration process and minimize further damage. Remember, contacting a water damage restoration company promptly is crucial to preventing long-term problems and ensuring the safety of your home and family.