The 4 Stages Of A Water Damage Repair Project
Water damage restoration work is one of the most important types of home repairs possible. If you're facing a water damage repair project, it's wise to understand how it should unfold. Homeowners can expect the process to go through these four stages.
Diagnosis
The first thing you need to do is to determine where the problem originates. It is unwise to attempt any repairs until you're sure the original source of the water damage is controlled. Even a small drip from a leaking pipe could undo all of your repair efforts.
A water damage restoration contractor will encourage you to work with other professionals to identify and solve the problem. If the issue is a roof leak or a water pipe break, they can help you fix it quickly so you can move forward with repairs.
Cleanup
You may need to clean some things up before repairs are really a possibility. If there is gray or black water from a sewer backup, for example, that has to go. You will need to sanitize the affected areas, too. This will reduce the risk that the wet spots might become breeding grounds for mold.
One important factor to watch out for during this stage is the drying process. Many people will want to see things dry up as fast as possible. However, rapid drying can cause wood to warp. If you're worried about wooden beams, columns, or floors, you should dry the house slowly. A water damage restoration contractor usually has slow-moving and large fans that will provide the required steady drying to reduce the risk of deformities.
Assessment
With everything dry and under control, you're just at the stage where an assessment is possible. A contractor will determine if some things are too far gone for water damage restoration. For example, restoration contractors frequently use chemically-treated paints to address mold issues in walls. However, there can come a point where the water damage is too deep to prevent trouble. In that scenario, a contractor may have to remove and replace the affected materials.
Depending on your situation, the assessment process may also include claims adjustment. If you want insurance compensation, you'll have to submit a claim and wait for approval. A water damage repair company can help you document the damage and support it with reports.
Restoration
Once you complete the assessment stage, the contractors will restore your house. This can involve resurfacing floors, painting walls, replacing damaged fixtures, and replacing damaged materials. You may also need a few outside contractors to handle things like rewiring the electrical system and putting in new pipes.
Contact water damage restoration services to learn more.