The water source is closely linked to the reason for water damage. It can be fixed only by the water restoration process. It is the process of restoring the property’s condition to how it was before the water entered. Of course, water damage restoration usually does not require certification. Still, it should ideally be performed by expert water restoration service providers who are equipped with the right tools, and experience. They have the right knowledge & skill to do so effortlessly.
The Major Causes of Water Damage?
Understanding what triggered the problem you’re supposed to fix is only the beginning of solving it. For water damage restoration experts, being aware of the main causes of water damage can help them quickly find the source when examining a property. The main causes of water damage are the following:
- Air conditioning unit condensation
- Natural disasters such as fire and rainwater
- Rubber or PVC water supply lines
- Broken household appliances
- Clogged drains and gutters
- Septic tank and sewer backups
- Burst or leaking pipes
- Old or faulty water heaters
- Damaged sprinkler systems
- Water overflow from toilets
- Inoperative sump pumps
- Inefficient roof water drainage
In addition to knowing where to look, water damage restoration specialists should also know what to look for. Water damage can still exist in areas that don’t have or haven’t been impacted by any of the main causes mentioned above. Therefore, restoration specialists should be able to detect the signs of water damage immediately.
The Signs of Water Damage?
One of the main procedures of the water damage restoration process is the ability to identify the signs of water damage proactively. The signs of water damage are the following:
- Swollen or warped materials
- Cracks on the ceiling or wall
- Peeling or bubbling paint
- Musty or damp odors
- Sagging or soft spots
- Structural damage
- Puddles of water
- Mold or mildew
- Water stains
The Importance of Water Damage Restoration?
One of the reasons why water restoration is important is structural damage. It can happen due to water damage! Water damage and structural damage are strongly related. The existence of one often implies the existence of the other. Walls, ceilings, and even floors can crumble due to water damage. Neglecting water damage or not addressing it fast enough can also cause long-term health hazards from mold, bacteria, and pests. Fortunately, the skill, knowledge, and experience required to do such work, will significantly reduce the dangers to the lives of building occupants.
Water Damage Restoration Process
Specialists usually perform the whole water damage restoration process in different steps. The process includes inspection, extraction, dehumidification, sanitation, and reconstruction if needed!
Conduct a Water Damage Inspection
A water damage inspection or water damage assessment is done by the specialist to identify the water source, the water contamination category, and the water damage class. Identifying the water contamination category will help the specialist determine the scope and type of decontamination required later on.
Remove Standing Water
Removing the standing water is crucial when a property has a flooded basement. It is not possible with a simple DIY process. It will need an advanced water extraction process which includes industrial vacuums and submersible pumps. The water restoration specialist also uses a moisture meter, and infrared thermal camera to uncover hidden water damage & residual surface.
Dry and Dehumidify Affected Areas
Similar to water extraction, the water restoration specialist uses heavy-duty moisture air mover fans and commercial-grade dehumidifiers in the process. It is used to dry and dehumidify affected areas. Another way that the specialist can improve airflow, besides using these tools, is to open windows and doors.
Clean and Sanitize All Surfaces
Before mold cleanup, the water restoration service was personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep them protected. Similar to both extraction and dehumidification, the water restoration service also uses High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum, air scrubber, and other types of negative air machines during sanitation. If there is an in-depth damage then all surfaces will be cleaned with an antimicrobial solution.
Repair and Reconstruct if Necessary
Our specialist will remove unsalvageable parts such as drywall below the flood line, low to medium-density trim boards, carpet padding, etc. Carpets can be thoroughly cleaned, but they will probably have to be changed. Also, rebuilding may be required, especially if the water damage resulted from a natural disaster.
Even though the process can be very complicated sometimes, following some simple water damage restoration procedures can ensure a complete and efficient restoration method. The water damage restoration process can last from a few days to several weeks. The actual length of each restoration, however, depends on factors such as the severity of the damage, the area of the impacted space, presence of mold or other pollutants. We are an efficient water restoration service in Glenview, IL, dedicated to offering our best and making your return to a safe & clean place.