Water damage is probably one of the most dreaded issues to have to deal with when it comes to home ownership, and with good reason.
It’s not just the water you need to think about but also the after effects it can have to your home’s structure, air quality, and more.
This is why it’s important to stay informed so when disaster does strike, you’re prepared.
What Causes Water Damage?
Water damage can be caused by a myriad of things. Some of the most common include:
– plumbing cracks, leaks, and bursts
– appliance malfunction
– sewage and drain backup issues
– malfunctioned sump pump
– foundation cracks
The first step when dealing with water damage is to identify the source and then determine which of the 3 water types you’re dealing with.
Category 1 – is considered clean water
Category 2 and 3 – come from contaminated water such as toilets and appliances (Note: if you’re dealing with 2 and 3, you should never come into contact with it. Call in a professional water restoration and clean up company right away.)
How Much Does It Cost To Clean Up Water Damage?
There are several factors that come into play when determining the cost of water damage and clean up.
Two main factors are the size of the affected area and the amount of water you’re dealing with.
If the area is still flooded, the water will need to be removed first. Usually this is done using pumps and tools to dehumidify before any restoration work can take place.
Timing also plays a huge factor. In a best case scenario, you’ll call in a water damage specialist to begin the clean up process immediately.
The longer the area goes without proper drying and cleaning, the more costly the damages will be.
Wet areas are a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which can quickly become a health hazard.
It’s important to remember that mold can begin to form within days and can spread at a rapid rate.
Other key considerations include the type of damaged materials and whether they can be repaired vs replaced. In most cases, repairing is a cheaper option over replacing.
Call A Professional For Emergency Water Damage Restoration Services
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to water damage is attempting to clean it themselves.
Water damage typically isn’t the time for a DIY solution. There’s a sizable difference between cleaning up a spill and cleaning up water that’s seeped into crevices and corners, and soaked the flooring all the way through.
Generally, special equipment is needed to properly dry the area. The drying process can take quite a while and if you try to cut corners, you can find yourself dealing with mold and further damages. Cutting this process short can result in mold and further damages to your home.
The best advice is to not risk it and immediately call a professional. A water damage specialist will make sure the clean up and restoration process is done safely and thoroughly.
At Integrity Building and Restoration, we not only specialize in cleaning up water damage, but in many cases can repair the leak as well. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 757-630-6641. Proudly serving the Hampton Roads and surrounding regions for over 15 years.