Water damage is a common and frustrating issue that homeowners may face. It can happen for various reasons, such as a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or flooding caused by severe weather conditions. Whatever the cause, acting quickly will minimize current damage and prevent any long-term issues. With that being said, in a rush to clean up the mess, many people make mistakes that can worsen the situation.
Water Damage Cleanup – Evans
Many’s first reactions to water damage are saving everything they can and cleaning up the mess immediately. Only after doing that does the thought of calling for professional water damage cleanup come into their minds. With that, people make many other mistakes when handling a water damage cleanup, especially if it is their first time. It is crucial to avoid the following mistakes to avoid making flooding worse and creating more significant problems down the road.
Waiting Too Long To Take Action
Water damage’s severity worsens the longer you wait to address it. Water seeps into walls, floors, and other materials. This will cause mold growth and structural damage. Unfortunately, these problems can be hidden in places in your home that you wouldn’t be able to see, allowing them to grow out of control without your knowledge. Therefore, it’s crucial to act fast and begin the cleanup process as soon as possible.
Not Knowing The Source Of The Water
It’s essential to identify the source of the water before beginning the cleanup process. If the water is contaminated, you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect yourself and your family. Contaminated water can cause serious health issues if you come into contact with it, including gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, and respiratory infections. Additionally, if the water comes from a burst pipe, you’ll need to turn off the water supply to prevent further damage.
Failing To Document The Damage
Documenting the damage by taking photos and videos before and after the cleanup process is essential. This documentation will be helpful when you file an insurance claim.
Attempting DIY Cleanup Without Professional Help
While trying to clean up the water damage yourself may be tempting, it’s not always the best idea. Water damage cleanup can be a complex process that requires specialized equipment and expertise. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could end up causing more damage or risking your health.
Not Removing All Of The Water
It’s crucial to remove all of the water from the affected area. Even a small amount of water left behind can lead to mold growth and other long-term problems. Using specialized equipment like industrial dehumidifiers can help ensure that all of the water is removed.
Neglecting To Address Mold Growth
Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours after water damage. Neglecting to address mold growth can lead to health problems and costly repairs down the line. Therefore, it’s essential to have a professional inspect the affected area and address any mold growth.
Failing To Dry Out Affected Materials Properly
After removing all of the water, it’s essential to thoroughly dry out all affected materials, including walls, floors, and furniture. Failure to do so can lead to long-term damage, such as warping and rotting.
Dealing with water damage can be stressful and overwhelming, but avoiding these common mistakes can make the process smoother and less costly in the long run. Remember to act quickly, identify the source of the water, document the damage, and seek professional help when necessary. Contact Rumsey Construction Augusta today to ensure your home is restored to its pre-damage condition and prevent future problems.
