Unfortunately, water damage is a common occurrence in many homes and businesses. It can be caused by a number of factors, such as heavy rains, storms, and even burst pipes. If you have experienced water damage, it is important to act quickly to minimize the damage and prevent further problems.
The first thing you will have to do is remove any standing water. Once the water has been removed, you can start the drying process. Restoration can be a long and difficult process, but it is important to persevere. With the right tips in mind, you can get your home back to its pre-damage state.
Table of Contents
1. Shut Your Home’s Main Water Supply
Water damage will require quick action and the first thing you should do is to find and shut your home’s main water supply. This is the main issue that will cause water damage in the first place. So, if you are able to shut it off, you will save your home from further damage.
However, if you can’t find any valves or outlets connecting to the main supply on the street, it is best to call a water damage restoration expert. They will know the origin of the problem and help you navigate the water shutoffs.
2. Remove Affected Items
The first thing you will need to do is to remove any affected items from the place. This includes furniture, rugs, and anything else that is wet or damp. Once you have removed these items, you will need to direct a fan towards the area to help dry it out. You should also open any windows in the area to help with the drying process.
If the water damage is severe, you may need to call in a professional. However, if the damage is not too bad, you may be able to do the repairs yourself. Either way, it is important to take care of the water damage as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home.
3. Inspect Your Place for Mold and Mildew
After the water has been in your lounge for some time, it is likely that furniture and concrete surfaces will be prone to mold and mildew buildup as a result. Mold can start forming in as little as 24 hours, so it’s best to take action immediately.
While inspecting your home for mold, it is advised to look in corners and on the bottom of lumber foundations. Closed places and cabinets are also more prone to mold formation, so be sure to look out for such places. Mold is harmful to humans, so it’s best to take immediate action.
4. Inspect and Remove Damaged Lumber
Your deck and foundation lumber is the most affected thing during water damage. Once the lumber is affected badly by the water damage, it cannot restore to its original strength and shape. So, the best you can do is to remove the lumber that is damaged and replace it with new ones.
You can consult a lumber supplier to inspect the damage. They’ll be able to tell you which places need replacements and which places can survive for some more time.