Water cleanup is the process of removing water from areas that have been flooded or damaged due to a leak. It’s important to clean up water damage quickly and correctly to protect yourself and your home. A flood can cause serious structural damage to your property and health issues to anyone exposed to it. Having professional help to cleanup water damage is essential.
Floods are one of the most common natural disasters in the United States. Water is often contaminated, especially with the presence of bacteria. The health risks associated with water exposure can be very serious, ranging from shortness of breath to fluid in the lungs. Unless you are experienced in water damage cleanup, it’s best to hire a company that specializes in such work.
Professionals use high-velocity air movers and commercial-grade dehumidifiers to remove large amounts of water. In addition, they maintain continuous monitoring to ensure that all water is removed. These companies can save you from the risk of hidden mold, a hazard that can be dangerous and costly.
Mold is a fungus that can grow on a wet surface, including the walls, floors, carpeting, furniture and even ceilings. It can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure, so you should act promptly. Using a wet-dry vacuum or a mop to clean up standing water is a good way to get started. However, if you have a large mold infestation, it’s recommended to contact a local mold removal company.
After water has been cleaned up, it is important to dry everything. If you do not do it right, the moisture may end up trapped under the flooring and carpeting, leading to problems that can be extremely difficult to remedy. You can also make use of a dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.
If you have an insurance policy that water cleanup covers flood damage, you will need to contact your insurance company to find out what your coverage is. They may have a list of approved contractors in your area. When you’re searching for a company, be sure to ask questions about their certifications, equipment and employees.
You should also be prepared to pay for the cost of repairs if your water damage is severe. Depending on the type of damage, you could be liable for repairing drywall, carpeting, hardwood floors and plaster.
Flood waters can cause electrical and structural damage. If your property is flooded, you should contact your local emergency services as soon as possible. Also, be sure to keep your belongings safe and secure, such as books and electronics. Even expensive electronics might be salvageable.
You should also call a professional to handle your water cleanup if you have any questions about the job. This is important because improperly cleaning up water can lead to long-term problems with mildew and mold.
After you’ve completed your cleanup, be sure to get a professional evaluation of the damages. An assessment will determine whether your restoration project is successful and if it needs to be modified.