Essential Tips and Tricks for Effective Water Damage Cleanup

Water damage can be caused by something as simple as an overflowing toilet. In more severe cases, it could be due to flash flooding. Regardless of the cause, water damage has the ability to wreak serious havoc on a home. A team of water damage experts can help relieve the stress of your water damaged home.

In addition to the immediate stress, it can cost thousands of dollars to repair the destruction. Not to mention, it can lead to secondary water damage issues, such as rot and mold. Both of which can be incredibly dangerous if ignored. 

With all of that being said, there are several things that a homeowner can do to make the water damage cleanup process faster and less stressful. The following tips will help homeowners prepare for these types of disasters by providing more information on what damage can look like, how to prepare for water damage cleanup, and how to carry out the process. 

Know Where to Look for Damage

It’s important to know that water damage isn’t always visible. Even when it is, homeowners often overlook the ways it can impact everything it touches. Wiping up the floor is simply not enough. Homeowners should also look out for damage to:

• Drywall: Most walls are made with this porous material that weakens when exposed to water. It can warp, bubble, and even collapse. Even when it dries out, it risks mold growth from contamination within the pores. 
• Plaster: Homes with this thick material may not need to replace it, but it can remain damp for a very long time. If it is damaged to the point of warping, it’s better off being replaced.
• Insulation Materials: Wet batts of fiberglass insulation and blown-in cellulose should be removed. Foam insulation sheets may be cleaned off and dried. 
• Wood: Solid wood floors, trim, framing, and furniture can warp and crack when they absorb too much water. However, some wood can be salvaged if it is dried completely.
• Plumbing & Electrical Wiring: Floods can cause clogs and broken pipes, and it can lead to electrical wire stripping that needs to be inspected and repaired by professionals.
• HVAC: Not only can the system itself suffer electrical issues in floods, but the vents can also harbor moisture and contaminants that lead to mold and mildew.
• Appliances: Electronics can be shorted out during floods, and this can be incredibly dangerous if they leak explosive gases into the air. A professional should inspect these items before use.
• Contents: Upholstery, decorations, art, clothing, and other household contents may be able to be cleaned depending on the material. Others might have to be discarded.

Tips for Water Damage Cleanup Preparation

While homeowners wait to restore their homes following a flood, they should proceed with caution and look for:

• Snakes, rodents, insects, or other wildlife that could come in with high water
• Foundation cracks or damage to gas or power lines
• Structural issues with flooring, walls, and stairs that could indicate danger
• Standing water touching electrical outlets

What Steps You Should Prioritize

Once all steps have been taken to prioritize the safety of the residents, homeowners should contact a water damage cleanup company to assist. This should be the first step before the insurance company is even called because most water damage specialists can assist with the claims process. 

From there, water should be blocked up to prevent spread to other areas in the home, if possible. Restoration crews can patch or tarp damage to stop more water from entering the house. Homeowners should also ensure that all unaffected household contents are in a safe space. Anything that has gotten wet should be removed to clean and restore.

From there, sump pumps and wet/dry vacuums should be used to extract all of the standing water in the house. In order to make sure that all moisture is removed, this step needs to be followed up with dehumidification and ventilation. These steps are crucial in preventing secondary water damage.

Benefits of Hiring Professionals for Water Damage Cleanup

It’s important to hire a water damage cleanup company for most of these steps because household vacuums can create electrical shock risk, and they simply don’t work as well as professional tools. Full-service water restoration crews can take care of everything so that your family is safe and less stressed.

If your home has recently suffered from a flood or other type of water damage, you’ve come to the right place. Contact The Restoration Group of Central NJ to help you with all of your water cleanup needs. Call us right away to request emergency services and a free quote.