Water Damage Cleanup Assessing and Dealing with Specific Damage

How do you know if water damage is permanent?

Water damage can be a devastating event, and it's important to act quickly to minimize the damage and prevent further problems. One of the most important things to do is to assess the damage and determine if it is permanent.

Assessing Water Damage

The first step in assessing water damage is to identify the source of the water and stop it from leaking. Once the water has been stopped, you can begin to assess the damage.

• Check for structural damage. Water damage can weaken structural components of your home, such as walls, floors, and ceilings. Look for cracks, bulges, or other signs of damage.
• Check for electrical damage. Water can damage electrical wiring and outlets, which can pose a fire hazard. If you see any signs of electrical damage, turn off the power to your home and call an electrician.
• Check for mold growth. Mold can grow on wet surfaces within 24 hours. Mold can cause health problems, so it is important to clean it up as soon as possible.

Dealing with Permanent Water Damage

If the water damage is permanent, it will need to be repaired or replaced. The type of repair will depend on the extent of the damage.

• Structural damage. If the structural damage is minor, it may be possible to repair it with epoxy or other materials. However, if the damage is more severe, the affected area may need to be replaced.
• Electrical damage. Electrical damage will need to be repaired by a qualified electrician. The electrician will need to replace any damaged wiring and outlets.
• Mold growth. Mold can be cleaned up with a bleach solution. However, if the mold growth is severe, it may be necessary to remove the affected area.

Preventing Water Damage

The best way to prevent water damage is to take steps to prevent water from entering your home.

• Keep your roof in good repair. A damaged roof can allow water to leak into your home.
• Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to overflow and leak into your home.
• Install a sump pump. A sump pump can help to remove water from your basement or crawl space.