Water Restoration: 5 Ways to Deal with Water Damage

10/13/2017 (Permalink)

Standing water can create issues from water flow obstruction to mold.

As a homeowner, water damage is always a cause for concern. When water damage does strike, it’s important to know how to handle the situation with efficiency and ease. Effective water damage restoration comes with knowing that the situation is urgent and calling the professionals immediately, however, there are a few things each and every homeowner can do to minimize the damage.

Prevent It

The best path towards successful water damage restoration is to not have to restore anything at all. One of the most beneficial things a homeowner can do is be informed. In short, know your home!

• Know where your water main valve switch is located. This is really important. Don’t be afraid to shut it off when you go away for long periods of time.

• During the winter, disconnect your hoses. This prevents standing water from forming and creating an issue where your water flow becomes obstructed. Bursting pipes are no fun!

• Maintain the hoses in your home. From the washing machine to under the sink, make sure you upgrade your hoses regularly to avoid leaks.

• Measure your water pressure. Hoses and pipes can only handle so much and checking the pressure that is running through them can save you a huge headache. You can buy a pressure gauge at Home Depot or Lowes that will do the trick.

Safety First

Any disaster, small or large, comes with the risk of safety. First, make sure everyone is safe and while cleaning up the damage wear gloves, waterproof  footwear, and protective gear. Additionally, be mindful of mold and bacteria, exposure to them can be very unhealthy.

Create Airflow

SERVPRO’s professionals understand how important it is to create airflow in a water damage emergency and their team is second-to-none when it comes to water cleanup and restoration. As a homeowner, we recommend utilizing any fans or dehumidifiers you have in your home until the pros arrive. This helps prevent bacteria and microbial growth from forming.

Smart Storage

One of the smartest preventative measures you can take is to keep a close eye on how you store your belongings and items within your home. Items and boxes stored at floor level are a target for damage, should a water emergency occur. Utilizing plastic or metal shelves for storage can prevent your items from taking on water damage. Avoid wood and particleboard if possible.

Plastic storage bins can provide an excellent way to store items as well. And even better, they’re cheap! Make sure the tops are secure and store them a few feet off the ground.

Isolate the Damage

If disaster does strike, you will want to remove the affected items right away. Separate water-logged items and place them in an area where they can dry. This will allow you the ability to move around the water-filled area with ease and create airflow that can help reduce water damage quickly.

Call the Pros

Dealing with water restoration and damage can be incredibly time consuming and frustrating. We suggest you call the professionals immediately so they can guide you through the process. The SERVPRO team is experienced and knowledgeable and will be able to get you back on track in no time. We are here to serve you!

If you need to reach us feel free to contact us through our site form or call us at (732) 858-5416.