The Water Damage Restoration Process

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Drying out the remaining water in a Bowmantown, TN home

Water Damage Restoration Process

After residential flooding, mold growth can begin within 24 hours, so it is important to begin cleanup as soon as possible. The following steps outline the water damage restoration process:

1. Document damage and contact the insurance company. After you have made sure all people and pets are safe, the first thing you should do is contact your insurance company. They may have specific instructions about what you should do next. They will likely ask you to document the damage. Take detailed photo or video evidence before beginning the restoration process.
2. Remove standing water. To remove the standing water, you will likely need to use specialized pumps or vacuums. You can also use buckets to scoop out the water.
3. Dry out the remaining water. After the standing water has been extracted, there will still be moisture within porous items. You can use fans and dehumidifiers to help speed the drying process. If the humidity outside is low enough, you can open windows and doors to increase airflow. It is important to fully dry your property to prevent mold growth.
4. Clean and sanitize affected surfaces. Flood water often contains bacteria, so it is important to sanitize everything affected by the flooding. The source of the water you are dealing with will determine the type of cleaner you should use. Everything that cannot be fully cleaned and dried should be thrown out.
5. Repair or replace damaged items. After everything is clean and dry, you can begin restoring the property. Depending on your level of experience, you may be able to do some of the repairs yourself. For some items, particularly electronics and other delicate items, you may need to hire a professional restorer.
From dealing with the insurance company to preventing mold growth, there is a lot to deal with after residential flooding. If you need help with mold removal or other aspects of the restoration process, an experienced restoration company can help you get your Bowmantown, TN, home back to normal quickly and safely.