Does Your Home Have Water Damage? The Information You Need When Cleaning Up

16 November 2021
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Water damage can be costly to homeowners. Often it lurks behind the walls of a property, threatening to destroy the structure. It's crucial to get started with cleaning it up quickly to protect yourself and your property from the damaging effects of water.

Always Take Safety Seriously

When dealing with water damage, you should take hazards and safety issues seriously. First, you want to make sure to deal with any issues with the utilities. You also want to be cautious of materials and contamination that can affect your home during the cleanup process.

First, make sure to deal with the utilities by checking the electrical service and making sure power is turned off to any affected areas. If you have gas service, shut off all valves to appliances or affected areas.

The contamination that comes in with flooding or other water problems can be due to sewage, chemicals, and other contaminants. You want to make sure to stay away from contaminated water and wear the appropriate safety clothing and gear when cleaning up.

Find the Source of the Water

Sometimes, flooding is obvious: a burst pipe, a leaky roof, a flooded basement. The water could also come from outside your house, possibly from a neighbor's yard or from a rainstorm. Sometimes, it comes from other sources, and you need to find it to stop the damage.

Often, your home's foundation is the main problem. It can become flooded with rainwater, or it can slowly fill with water from groundwater or surface water, causing cracks and deterioration. There could also be other damage to the exterior and leaks. Find the source of the water and repair the problem to stop the water from coming in.

Remove the Water and Damaged Materials

There might be standing water that needs to be dealt with before the rest of the cleanup can begin. You can use pumps and other equipment to remove the standing water. You also want to use fans and ventilate your home to start drying things out so the repairs can be done.

Water damage cleanup often means removing wet materials, especially drywall and carpeting. Removing wet materials can expose the raw wood or concrete underneath, which can create safety concerns. Wear gloves, safety goggles, and other protective equipment to ensure you are not exposed to any hazards.

It is better to be prepared with the right knowledge when dealing with water damage. Contact a water damage restoration service to get the help you need with repairs.

For more information reach out to a company like 1-800-BUSY-DOG.