Water damage can be quite problematic and is often a result of ruptured sewer lines, bleeding pipework, or natural phenomenon. Upon realizing water damage, many homeowners face a daunting cleanup task and may not even know where to begin. This water damage can trigger further problems on your property if left unresolved, which can become very costly in the long run. Swift and effective actions have to be taken to restore your home to its usual appealing and habitable state. Water damage will, in most cases, affect your wood fittings, electrical wiring, appliances, drywall, insulation, floor coverings, and plastering. Some of these vulnerable items are vital for the sustenance of your home and should be salvaged immediately.
Shut off water and electricity mains
As soon as you realize water damage, it would be best to immediately turn all water and electricity access to prevent further damage to your property. Turning off the water mains will help you stop the water volume from increasing and becoming even more challenging to clean up. It may also help you locate the source of the water.
Water and electricity can be detrimental when put together. Therefore, it would be ideal for you to shut off the electricity mains immediately and disconnect all electrical appliances in your home. This measure will protect the occupants of your home from electrocution and also keep your electrical appliances from shorting out or exploding. As a follow-up, homeowners should turn off the gas supply as an added precaution.
Assess the damage
Homeowners should assess the damage inflicted on their property to help them determine a viable course of action. This process will involve determining the source of water damage, evaluate the volume of water in your property and the resulting level of damage. While assessing the source of water damage, be keen on the kind of water on your property, whether clean, gray, or black-water. This assessment can be used to determine DIY tasks and what will require professional assistance.
Inspect mold
Mold can be a health hazard, and given its proclivity for moist areas, your home could be subject to an infestation after water damage. If mold is present, it would be commendable to call a professional to come and get rid of such an infestation. Keep checking for infestations as you carry out the restoration.
Drying out
Homeowners should do their best to eliminate all the water and accumulated moisture in their home to prevent subsequent damage. Depending on the water damage levels, this could either be a DIY task or require professional intervention. Large fans and dehumidifiers can be very effective in circulating dry air to get rid of the moisture in your home.
Dispose of damaged material
Porous materials such as fabrics, drywall, carpets, wood, and insulation that have been exposed to this water damage should be disposed of if you cannot salvage them. Salvaging these materials may be difficult due to the irreversible nature of water damage on porous material.
Disinfection
Homeowners are advised to carry out a thorough disinfection exercise once they have removed all the damaged material. Bleach or any DIY disinfecting solutions can be very effective in preventing future infestations.
Call a professional
While professional restoration services may seem costly, they are speedy and effective. They can tackle these jobs with such ease as they have the relevant experience and equipment needed for the job. Professional help will also protect you and your family from the hazards that come with the water damage cleanup process. Work with professionals to effect the repairs and restoration around your home for a more competent and quality job.