Home Water Damage? Here's What You're Up Against
You have water damage from broken pipes, toilet overflow, or a natural disaster like a flood. You have a lot to consider about cleaning and repairing your house when it comes to dealing with these problems. The following water damage information will help you understand what you are up against when it comes to repairing the water damage in your home.
The Water Damage Restoration Steps
Water damage to your home is the single most important cause of mold and mildew growth in homes. If you've discovered a water leak, you need to act quickly. But there's no reason to panic. A calm, methodical response is the best way to handle water damage in your home.
If caught early, water damage can be relatively easy to remedy with a few simple steps, including:
- Identify and stop all sources of water
- Remove all standing water
- Dry out the affected area
- Treat for mold and mildew where necessary
These are the basic steps that you are going to have to go through to clean up the water damage in your home.
Drywall and Insulation Absorb Water
Drywall soaks up water like a sponge. Even if a leaky pipe or flood doesn't cause the drywall to fall apart, the moisture can still lead to mold growth behind the wall. Drywall is also typically installed with loose-fill insulation between studs, absorbing water and providing a breeding ground for mold. If your house has been exposed to excess water for more than 24 hours, it's best to replace the drywall and insulation affected by the flood.
Removing Material Attracting Mold and Mildew
The first that that needs to be done when cleaning up is to remove moldy and mildew-attracting materials. This includes carpeting, drywall, insulation, wallpaper, and other porous materials that have become waterlogged. Also, remember that these materials cannot be salvaged once they become wet. To prevent mold spores from spreading, it is necessary to remove them as soon as possible.
Any items that are not damaged by moisture can be cleaned and sanitized using a solution of bleach per gallon and water. While many people choose to use hot water for this process, it is not necessary because the bleach will kill any microbes present in the water.
While you may be tempted to use a wet/dry vacuum or other carpet cleaning equipment, it is best to avoid doing so until a professional has had a chance to inspect the situation. This equipment can actually spread mold spores throughout the home if used improperly. However, if you are certain your carpeting has been destroyed by moisture, you may use a wet/dry vacuum on the carpet itself if you wish.
Contact a water damage restoration service to get the help you need repairing your home.
