Understanding the Process of Water Damage Repair
While it's true that no homeowner wants to deal with water damage repairs, it may not be something that you can avoid. While Cleveland is
fortunate not to have to deal with the wrath of storms like Hurricane Irma or Hurricane Maria, we still face our own type of unique weather
related challenges. Not to mention, flooding can also occur as the result of plumbing issues.
What matters most is that you have a plan in place for how to handle the situation, should the need for water damage repairs arise. Keep in mind that the more time that passes from the moment your house takes on water to the moment the water is mitigated, the worse the damage will be. So even if you think you are not a likely candidate, have a plan to follow just in case, so that you can minimize the potential damage, as well as reduce your stress.
What You Need to Know
If you notice your home is filling with water, there are some steps that you should follow. Here are some key tips to help make the process as painless as possible.
Above all else, think safety first. Even if you know its a plumbing problem and its just some water in the basement, before attempting to shut off the water, make certain that you have a clear and safe path to do so. Electrical wiring and water are a potentially deadly combination and not a risk that you should be willing to take. Now is a good time to call on a water damage specialist to begin taking care of the issue.
After the area has been deemed safe, you can move items that have been exposed to water. If they are beyond repair, you can plan on arranging for disposal. However, if you are unsure, it would be better to let a professional assess the damage and see what can be salvaged. Other items can be moved from standing water to a safe place to dry out. All of this may also be taken care of the professional team you opt to work with for your water damage repairs.
Once the team of water damage specialists arrive, the water extraction and drying out process can begin. An expert will use the best source for the situation to remove any remaining water. Once this phase has been completed, the drying out can begin, which usually requires an industrial fan and heat sources.
From there, it is about cleaning and disinfecting your home and anything in it that may have been affected. This is a vital step in being able to save your belongings, without putting yourself and your family at risk of suffering health ramifications. Anything deemed having sustained irreparable damage will be disposed of. However, by partnering with a professional this vastly increases your chances of being able to salvage your home and the items inside.
Following this, it is about getting the stagnant air circulating, making any necessary repairs and monitoring for mold. Working with an expert means the proper steps should be taken in order to prevent mold development. However, you should always side of caution when it comes to anything that could potentially put your health at risk.
Getting the Help That You Need
Don't let the name fool you, Optimal Painting is a team of experts known for masterfully handling much more than just painting. We take great pride in being able to also be the go to team to call on, when you find yourself in need of water damage repairs. This can literally be the difference between being able to save your home, or not.
Did you know that rust and mold can begin to appear in as a little as 72 hours? That gives you a relatively small window of time to take action, before serious damage occurs. Don't put your home at risk of any more damage than is necessary when you find out you have taken on water.
