Considering DIY Water Damage Cleanup?

Did you just walk into a wet mess at home? If you have found water damage, you need to quickly clean it up. Once you've shut down the water source and electricity, you may be staring at puddles and wondering, “What now?” It's time to assess and 1) do the water damage repair or 2) get professional help. Either way, you need to decide and get to work immediately. Wet materials can develop very serious problems like mold in 24-48 hours. You don't have time to wait.

Before deciding to clean up the area yourself or hire water damage restoration experts, assess the situation and take into account the following important factors:

Water Volume

If your home experiences a minor to moderate water intrusion, a skilled individual equipped with the appropriate tools can often manage the situation effectively. However, for larger-scale flooding, persistent water issues, or when time is of the essence, seeking the assistance of a professional service like Crossroads Property Rescue is highly recommended.

In the aftermath of severe flooding or when significant damage is sustained due to a natural disaster, it's crucial not to attempt extensive repairs on your own. Adhere to guidance provided by local disaster relief authorities, who are well-versed in safety measures during such emergencies. Trusting experienced professionals ensures that restoration and repairs are completed safely and efficiently, minimizing potential hazards and mitigating further damage.

Damage Level

Assessing the scope of the damage is a critical step. Minor damage may be manageable with some effort by a homeowner, but extensive damage often requires the expertise of trained professionals. For example, if water from a flood on an upper floor has seeped through and compromised the ceiling of the room below, the situation becomes complex and hazardous. The structural integrity of the home might be jeopardized, making it unsafe and difficult to repair without specialized knowledge and equipment. In such cases, it is crucial to seek professional assistance to prevent further complications and ensure the area is properly restored.

Possibility of Serious Mold Issues

Professional water cleanup teams are familiar with identifying areas of potential mold problems. Mold can begin to grow within just 24 hours under the right conditions. For ongoing problems, such as mold from attic condensation, it may have been present for a longer time. If you discover mold or mildew, it's crucial to proceed with caution, as some mold types can be toxic to humans, and all molds can damage the materials they infest.

For minor mold issues, remove the affected material, and dispose of it immediately. For more severe issues, leave the area, turn off any airflow to stop the spread of spores, and call a professional. Also, keep in mind that mold can grow in hidden areas, such as inside walls or under floors, so you may need ongoing inspections and water damage repairs.

Structural Losses That Occur At Post-Water Damage

Structural damage after water damage refers to the deterioration of a building's essential components, such as walls, floors, ceilings, and the foundation. When water infiltrates these areas, it can weaken the structural integrity, causing materials like wood to rot, metal to corrode, and drywall to disintegrate. Mold growth can exacerbate the damage, posing health risks and further degrading the structure. Over time, this can lead to dangerous conditions, including sagging floors, buckling walls, and compromised support beams. Prompt water extraction and thorough drying are crucial to prevent long-term structural issues and ensure the safety and stability of the affected property.