Understanding the Process of Restoration After Water Damage

Water damage is one issue that is not easily detected in the home until long after the damage has been done. The only time that most people would look out for water damage is when there have been major flooding issues whether through broken plumbing or natural disaster. Other than that a leaky roof or basement can gradually wreak havoc on a home without the owners’  knowing that anything is amiss until it is too late. That’s why we made this guide to understanding the process of restoration after water damage.

When moisture keeps seeping into a home in large quantities, it can ruin the flooring, ceiling, furniture and even electrical fixtures. Worse still, it can destroy things that not replaceable or difficult to replace; things such as family mementos, photographs, official documents and the like can be lost forever. Click here for tips on how to preserve family mementos. This is why is it very important to always be on the lookout for water damage in the home and know what to do when it occurs. It is even far better to know how to prevent it!

In this article, we will explore the process of water damage restoration but we will also share a few tips on prevention.

How to Prevent Water Damage

There is a popular saying that prevention is better than cure and we can all attest to the fact that it is 100% true.

While we are thankful for experts that can always step in and help restore our homes after water damage, it is better that the destruction did not occur in the first place. That being said therefore, below are some tips for prevention:

1. Know the location of the water hydrant in your home as this will enable you quickly switch off the water supply in the case of a leak or rupture.
2. Check for leaks from time to time; look under the sink, check your dishwasher and washing machines for signs of leakage so that you can deal with it immediately.
3. Ensure that you properly maintain and service your sump pump.
4. Always clear debris away from your gutters so that you can easily detect any leakage.
5. Inspect your roof from time to time. Check the attic for signs of leakages. Also look out for moisture stains on the wall/plaster and also damp spots.
6. Ensure to keep your pipes from freezing especially if you are travelling. Keep the minimum water temperature at 10°C and make sure that warm water can pass through the pipes to keep them from freezing. It is best to drain the system (pipes) before leaving your home unoccupied for a long time.
7. Check your windows for condensation in the morning; this might be a sign of leakage somewhere. Same goes for flaky wallpapers or coffee-like stains on your wall and also walls that are always cold and have a ‘funny’ smell.
8. Install a moisture detection device in sensitive areas in your home. They come in handy for shutting of water leakage.

Process of Restoration after Water Damage

The tips we shared above are not exhaustive but they are very useful and will go a long way to prevent water damage. However, there are circumstances that are beyond human control and some of these can lead to moisture hazards in the home. Therefore when this happens, one should be looking for the fastest and best way to mitigate the damage.

Below, we explain the process of restoration as follows:

Inspection

This is the first and all important step in this process because repair has to start from the source of the problem. The inspection covers the source, the extent and the type of damage that took place and this inspection is often carried out by experts. We recommend that you do not DIY this process especially when the problem is severe. You can contact professionals such as Air Care Online from the comfort of your home and they would come to you. The success of this step determines the success of the whole process so it should not be toyed with; hence the need for expert evaluation.

Extraction of Standing Water

This is important for buildings that were affected by flood and this might be going on while the inspection is happening to prevent further destruction. This step is carried out with extractors such as sump pumps or industrial vacuums. Then after removing standing water, any remainder on the surface is removed using portable vacuums (wet/dry). The final action in this step in the process is to use an infrared thermal camera or moisture meter to check for hidden moisture under floorboards or behind walls so that it can be dealt with.

Drying and Dehumidification of Affected Areas

This next step is carried out with heavy duty fans and dehumidifiers. Apart from the use of these pieces of equipment, the professional will also leave doors and windows open for proper ventilation. Bear in mind that this step in the process takes longer than the water extraction depending on the level of destruction.

Cleaning and Sanitizing every Surface in the Property

Water damage most often come with mold infestation so cleaning and sanitizing every surface is a crucial step in the restoration process. Equipment used include HEPA vacuum and air scrubber and if the damage is severe, an anitimocrobal solution will be used to sanitize every surface.

Repair and Reconstruction

This is the last step in the process and this is where things that cannot be salvaged will be removed. These include things such as carpet paddings, trim boards or drywalls. Carpets can be cleaned thoroughly although some people prefer to completely replace them. The specialist will determine the things that will be repaired and the things that will be replaced or reconstructed. The level of damage is what will determine the level of repair, reconstruction and or replacement.

Conclusion

We have discussed some pertinent facts about water damage and how to prevent it and the process of restoration when the damage has occurred. Ensure that you look out for professionals to carry out the restoration because the process has to be thorough to avoid further damage and even health hazards.