Water damage happens and it isn't pretty. While rain water is pure, the other stuff isn't. Floods bring debris, mud, sewage, chemicals, and other contaminants into your home. Once the water recedes, guess what's left behind? Even if the water damage came from a relatively clean source, such as a refrigerator water line break or an unattended faucet causing a sink or bathtub overflow, the water mixes with dirt hidden deep within your carpets and soaks everything it comes in contact with. To make matters worse, structural damages like soggy drywall, ruined carpets, and shorted-out electrical systems are common. Finally, unless cleaned up quickly, mold is sure to sprout, further damaging your home. No matter how the flooding began, the damage has been done and you've got a mess on your hands.
Safety First When water damage occurs, always put your safety first. Turn off the power and make sure that the building is safe to enter.
Stop the Water from Flowing Once the area is safe to enter, stopping the flow of water is critical. After all, what good is mopping up a mess when the sludge continues its onward flow? If the water damage is due to a plumbing mishap, shut off the water at its source. For example, use the shut off valves below the toilet if your toilet is overflowing. You may need to turn off the main shut-off valve to the home for pipe bursts and other plumbing problems.
If the water damage is due to weather conditions, you may have no choice but to ride out the storm. Emergency repairs may lessen the amount of water damage that occurs. When possible, do what you can to stop the water from coming in. Use sandbags, tarps, buckets, storm shutters, and other materials and tools to stop the flow of water.
Cleanup and Dry Out Mopping up and drying out the home is crucial. The sooner that you can do this, the better. Otherwise, the water will soak in further causing more damage while mold spores will soon find the ideal environment from which to thrive. Use protective clothing, gloves, and a breathing mask, especially if the water is likely contaminated with sewage or chemicals. Depending on the extent of the flooding, you may need to remove furnishings and carpets. Before throwing damaged goods out, document the damage for insurance purposes.
Clean, clean, and clean some more. Clean and disinfect any items that came in contact with the water. Electronics may be unsalvageable. Again, keep your safety in mind and document any water damage before discarding damaged items. Once the mess is mopped up and cleaned, air out the building, using fans to assist in blowing out the moisture. Remember that mold loves a moist environment, so drying out the building quickly is essential.
Repair Structural Water Damage Warped floorboards, damaged electrical systems, ruined carpets and drapes, damaged roofs, broken windows, and soggy drywall are common victims of water damage. Depending on the damage, you may need to hire a contractor to make the repairs.
Water causes serious damage that gets progressively worse with every delay. Fortunately, you don't have to clean up on your own. Consider hiring a water damage professional to mop up the mess.
