Water Damage Restoration Step by Step

If you suffer from water damage, organizing a plan will help keep you safe, save more possessions and get your life back to normal sooner. While every situation is different, here are some general steps to follow.

Stop The Water

You can’t start repairing the water damage problems until you control the flow of water. Attempt to identify and close off the source of excess water. While an overflowing bathtub is an obvious source, leaky pipes may not be. Expert plumbers and water remediators have tons of practice finding leaks, clogs and broken pipes. When you have standing water in your home, or you can’t stop the flow, you need to call a plumber right now. 

If water has come in from a storm damaged roof, stay safe. Let a professional team get up on the structure to prepare a temporary seal from additional bad weather. Tarps can be secured until the roof can be repaired.

Sterilize To Be Safe

Sewage water can contain microbes, viruses and harmful bacteria. Trapped moisture within a wall cavity can lead to mold, mildew, bacteria, and it can even compromise structural integrity. Containing and eliminating any dangerous waste is the first priority of a clean-up. 

Anything that could have been touched by the water, including the walls and baseboards, should be cleaned thoroughly. If the flood water contains pathogens, use 1.5 cups of bleach and a gallon of water as a sanitizer. Or allow the professionals to safely sterilize all surfaces capable of supporting mold. This will help the water damage restoration process.

Dry Out The Structure And Belongings

A complete drying plan ensures that not just the air, but all the affected building materials are addressed. Instead of opening a window, turning on a fan and simply waiting, today’s professionals take control of the drying process. Structural drying removes excess moisture from all wet materials that make up the structure. By managing a) the temperature of any wet materials, b) humidity levels and c) air flow, restoration teams can dry the unseen areas that could lead to future damage.

If your valuable furniture and belongings need to be packed and stored, our experts have the tools. The personal items are placed in a dehumidification chamber to return them to a safe, dry state and move them back in when your home is ready. 

Coordinate With Insurance

You have paid thousands of dollars in insurance premiums over the years to protect your home. Expect your agent and the adjuster to provide you with prompt and professional service. Now choose to work with a trusted team that understands the ins and outs of the insurance process. Confirm the process of photo documentation and detailed notes to coordinate with your provider; follow all advice to simplify the claim process.

Your Restoration Experts In Chapel Hill

Along with offering water damage restoration services, the team at Restoration 1 also provides emergency services, storm damage services, sewage system cleanup and more. Our team not only cares about “restoring your home”, they realize you need to resume your life. 

When you require professional water damage cleanup, our team is well equipped and fully trained to handle all your water damage needs.