Water damage restoration is a process of both mitigation and repair that includes cleaning up, restoring and disinfecting the affected area. It also may include replacing damaged materials and reconstructing areas of the home that are permanently impacted. The process can take a few days to complete, depending on the severity of the damage. It is important to understand the steps involved in water damage restoration so you can make the best decision for your situation.
The first step is to stop any leaks and determine the source of the water. It is important to do this as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and minimize the amount of water that needs to be removed. Once this is done, you can begin the cleanup process.
In this stage, experts use specialized personal protective equipment (PPE) to clean the affected areas and dispose of any materials that cannot be restored. It is also important to remove draperies, rugs and furniture from the affected areas so they can dry thoroughly. This will also help prevent any staining or warping.
Standing water is removed water damage restoration fort lauderdale FL during this process using industrial-grade equipment such as wet vacs and submersible pumps. This step can be difficult because of the volume of water that may need to be removed. If the damage is severe, it may be necessary to remove the entire section of the affected floor or wall.
After all the standing water is removed, drying and dehumidification are used to speed up the process of evaporation. Fans and dehumidifiers are placed in the affected area to increase air flow, which can help reduce drying time. This can be especially helpful in basements or other areas where there are high levels of humidity.
During this process, technicians are looking for signs of mold growth and will treat the affected area accordingly if needed. Mold is not only a health hazard, but it can also cause structural issues and create odors. If left unattended, mold can also aggravate existing health problems and encourage new ones.
Once all the affected areas are dried and sanitized, they are ready to be restored. This can involve replacing materials such as drywall, carpet and flooring. It can also include painting and other cosmetic repairs. It is important that all work is performed by a certified water damage restoration company to ensure quality work and safety in the home.
When choosing a restoration company, be sure to find out what kind of equipment they use, whether their staff is IICRC-certified and if they have any references from past clients. This will help you decide if the company is right for your home and their prices are within your budget. You can usually find this information through online review websites or by asking friends and family for recommendations. In addition to price, you should also make sure that the company has an emergency line available and is licensed and insured. Then, you can rest assured that the job will be done correctly and quickly.