Water damage can be a devastating experience, causing damage to a home’s structure, furnishings, and personal belongings. However, with proper planning and execution, it is possible to restore a home after water damage.
Nobody wants to have an emergency, like water damage from a broken pipe or a flooded basement, but we all should have a plan of action in place to take care of it if something does happen. Having to call in a water damage restoration company can be quite expensive, especially if your home insurance doesn’t cover it. Here are some tips to help you through the process.
Assess the damage. As soon as it is safe to do so, assess the damage caused by the water. Take pictures and document any damage for insurance purposes. Safety is your number one concern, if you suspect a dangerous situation, stop what you are doing and call for professional help.
Turn off the power. If the water has reached electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power to the affected areas to avoid the risk of electrical shock. Always shut off power before entering a water filled area, like a basement.
Remove excess water. Use a wet-dry vacuum or mop up as much water as possible. Remove any standing water to prevent further damage.
Dry out the affected area. Open windows, turn on fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out the affected area. You may also want to consider hiring a professional water damage restoration company to assist with the drying process.
Remove damaged items. Remove any damaged items, such as carpet, furniture, and personal belongings, to prevent mold growth and further damage.
Disinfect the affected area. Use a disinfectant to clean and sanitize the affected area. This will help prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
Remove any mold. If you suspect mold growth, have a professional inspect and remove it. Mold can cause health problems and should be removed as soon as possible.
Address any structural damage. If the water damage has caused structural damage, such as warping or rotting, it is important to address it as soon as possible. Hire a professional contractor to make the necessary repairs.
Install new flooring and drywall. If the water damage has affected the flooring or drywall, you’ll need to install new materials. This can include new carpet, hardwood, tile, or drywall.
Paint the affected area. Once the new flooring and drywall have been installed, it is time to paint the affected area. Choose a paint color that matches the rest of your home.
Document the restoration process. Take pictures and document the restoration process for insurance purposes. This will also serve as a record of the work done in case you need to make a claim in the future.
Restore your belongings. Once the home has been restored, it is time to restore your personal belongings. This can include washing or dry-cleaning clothes, furniture, and curtains.
Check for any lingering water damage. After the restoration process is complete, it is important to check for any lingering water damage. This can include checking for any musty odors, dampness, or visible signs of mold.
Restoring a home after water damage can be a challenging and time-consuming process. However, with proper planning and execution, it is possible to restore your home to its original condition. Be sure to assess the damage, remove any damaged items, and hire a professional contractor if necessary. With patience and perseverance, you can successfully restore your home and get back to your regular routine.
