Water damage can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. It can strike suddenly and without warning, leaving your home and belongings soaked and ruined. Water damage can be caused by a number of different things, including heavy rains, faulty plumbing, or even a leaky roof.

No matter the source, it’s important to act quickly to mitigate the damage and get the restoration process started. Dr. Quick Dry, a water damage restoration company, claims that the first 24 hours are critical. If you find yourself in the aftermath of a water incident, you may find it less stressful if you know what to expect from the water damage restoration process.

What does the water damage restoration process look like?

If you’re dealing with water damage, you may be wondering what the restoration process entails. Here’s a look at what you can expect.

1.   Assessment and Triage

The first step in the water damage restoration process is assessment and triage. A professional restoration company will send a team of certified technicians to your home to assess the damage and develop a plan of action.

They will also determine what items can be salvaged and what needs to be replaced. This assessment is critical in order to develop an effective restoration plan. If you have insurance, the triage team will also work with your insurer to make sure that all of the necessary coverage is in place.

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2.   Water Removal

Once the assessment is complete, the next step is water removal. This is usually done with industrial-grade pumps and vacuums. The idea is to remove as much water from the affected area as possible so that the drying process can begin. In some cases, special drying equipment like dehumidifiers and air movers may also be used to speed up the process.

3.   Cleaning and Sanitizing

Once the bulk of the water has been removed, the next step is the cleaning and sanitizing. This is critical because wet environments are breeding grounds for bacteria and mold. The technicians will use specialized cleaners and sanitizers to clean all surfaces in the affected area, paying special attention to porous materials like carpeting, drywall, and insulation which can quickly become contaminated.

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4.   Restoration

The final step in the process is restoration. This may involve anything from minor repairs (like patching drywall) to major reconstruction (like rebuilding entire rooms). The scope of the restoration will depend on the extent of the damage. Once all repairs have been made, your home will be returned to its original condition…or even better!

How do I prevent water damage in the future?

One of the best ways to prevent future water damage is to make sure that your home is properly waterproofed. Here’s what you can do:

1. Seal cracks in the foundation: One of the best ways to prevent water damage is to seal any cracks in your foundation. Cracks can allow water to seep into your home, leading to expensive repairs down the line. You can purchase a foundation sealant at your local hardware store, or you can hire a professional to do the job for you.
2. Check the gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can cause rainwater to back up and seep under your roof, while damaged or missing shingles provide an easy entry point for water. By keeping your gutters clean and in good repair, you can help ensure that rainwater flows freely away from your home.
3. Get a sump pump: Sump pumps are typically installed in the lowest point of a home, in the basement or crawlspace. When water collects in the sump pit, the pump kicks on and starts to remove the water. This helps to reduce the risk of flooding and serious water damage. Sump pumps can be powered by electricity or a battery, so it’s important to make sure that the pump will continue to work even if there is a power outage.
4. Look out for signs of damage: Stay on the lookout for signs of water damage. If you see peeling paint or wallpaper, warping floors, or mold growth, it’s important to investigate further. These are all indications that water has infiltrated your home and is causing problems.