Water Damage Cleanup What to Do and What Not to Do

Immediate Actions After Water Damage

Discover prompt action following water damage is crucial to minimize further deterioration. Here are the necessary steps to take:

• Assess the situation: Determine the source of the water damage and turn off water supply if possible.
• Shut off electricity: Avoid contact with electrical equipment, and contact a qualified electrician to disconnect power if necessary.
• Remove standing water: Use a pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water. Extract water from carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
• Open windows and doors: Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors to encourage air circulation and facilitate drying.
• Protect belongings: Move valuable items and documents to higher ground. Remove furniture and rugs from affected areas.

What Not to Do After Water Damage

Certain actions can worsen water damage and should be avoided:

• Don't use fans: Fans can spread airborne contaminants and distribute water vapor throughout the house, potentially extending damage.
• Don't leave wet materials in place: Remove wet carpets, drywall, and other materials immediately to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Don't paint over damaged surfaces: Paint will trap moisture and cause further deterioration. Allow damaged surfaces to dry thoroughly before painting.
• Don't use bleach on carpet: Bleach can damage carpet fibers and cause discoloration.
• Don't remove drywall without experience: Removing drywall requires professional knowledge and tools. Attempting to remove it without experience can result in further damage.

Professional Water Damage Cleanup:

For extensive water damage or situations requiring specialized expertise, it is highly recommended to contact a professional water damage cleanup service. These professionals possess the necessary equipment, expertise, and experience to effectively restore your property to its pre-damage condition.