With recent hurricanes Harvey and Irma in the news, the images of homes flooded with water are everywhere but you don’t need to live in an area prone to hurricanes to experience water damage. Water damage can be caused by bursting or leaking pipes, problems with the plumbing systems like overflowing bathtubs or a broken toilet, sewer problems, buildup in areas prone to water buildup like basements, attics and crawl spaces, appliances that malfunction, issues with the heating, ventilating and air conditioning units. Water damage restoration is a multi-step process and needs to be taken care of by a company with experience.
Water Damage Restoration Process
1. Initial inspection. The company you choose will do an initial visual inspection of the damage to determine what action needs to be taken to make sure the negative effects of water damage can be reversed. The contents can be secured if there are no safety issues found and the restoration process can start.
2. Extraction of water. The top priority is to contain the damage and extract all standing water as soon as possible. Any materials that are wet will need to be removed. These items may be area rugs, pillows, toys and clothing. After the water is extracted any surfaces that are wet will need to be removed. Walls, ceilings, cabinets or floors that are wet can hinder the drying time. Baseboards can also be removed to expedite drying. Drywall that is not salvageable will also be removed along with any affected insulation. ANY and ALL surfaces that are wet will need to be treated.
3. Stabilization & drying. Once extraction is complete and all the wet material have been removed, the drying process will officially begin. Air movers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems and heaters may be used to produce dry air that will increase air circulation and evaporation. Controlling moisture is critical to prevent mold growth and the environment will be carefully monitored. Depending on the situation and the material affected, normal drying time will usually take 2 to 4 days.
4. Re-assessing the damage. After all the drying is complete, another inspection will be done to make sure there aren’t any pockets of moisture remaining. This is important to ensure there will be no more water related damage or mold growth.
5. Reconstruction. The final step is reconstruction and will start once the water damage has been mitigated and the structure has returned to a dry standard. Any material that needs to replaced will be replaced. After this final step is complete, you home will be safe, healthy and back to its pre-damaged condition.
Water Damage Restoration, Rebuilding & More in Tarzana, Calabasas, Beverly Hills, Rancho Palos Verdes, San Marino, Pacific Palisades, La Canada Flintridge, Bel-Air & Greater Los Angeles, California
It’s very important to remember that time is of the essence when there’s any type of water damage in the home. If the home can be dried in three days or less it will prevent the growth of toxic mold. To reduce the time water will have to damage your home, contact Future Vision Remodeling as soon as possible. Give us a call today!
