As a homeowner, you’ve likely had your fair share of home disasters and mishaps. A clogged toilet will have been unpleasant, as with a broken water heater and leaky faucets. There are some occurrences that are worse than others, however, and one of them is water damage—they often come as emergencies, whether through natural disasters, burst pipes, damaged roofs, and even sewage back up.
Regardless of nature, water damage can be threatening and downright upsetting, as there’s also the risk of damaging the rest of your valuable items. It is important that you act immediately—the more you hesitate, the more damaged your property will be.
When handling a water damage emergency, it’s important to have a plan you can follow despite the apparent stress. Here’s what you can do:
Step 1: Safety first—protect yourself and your valuables
Water damage poses threat to your health in more ways than one—contaminated water may infect your body, electricity may be traveling through the water, and mold growth may be present. Whatever the danger may possibly be, protecting yourself is paramount.
Before assessing the damage, it’s best to switch off your circuit breaker and then unplug your devices. Wear rubber gloves, boots, and protective clothing as you go through the wreckage, but only rescue the most valuable items—the rest will need to stay put.
Step 2: Identify the water problem
Once you’ve ensured your safety and your valuables are relocated, it’s time to look for the source of damage. You’ll need to stop it to prevent further damage, especially if the water is quickly leaking through the rest of your home. You’ll likely be dealing with a burst pipe, so go to your shut-off valves and use them.
A leaky roof or ceiling may also be the culprit, but it’s best to call in the experts for such problems. Signs of mold may also be present, which usually manifests through discolored walls, floors, and even ceilings.
Step 3: Have your property cleaned and restored
A few days of drying will be enough to prepare your property for cleaning but be warned—the aftermath of extensive water damage will take time and effort. Calling on the professionals may be necessary, as there will be complications you will not be able to address on your own.
Your flooring, drywall, and carpeting will be replaced to prevent mold growth and mildew. Moisture will also likely be present, especially in places you have no access to. A thorough cleaning will also be required, especially if the water is contaminated.
The Bottom Line
Being a homeowner has its ups and downs, but the challenge always remains with repairs and maintenance. Emergencies are also inevitable parts of the home life, but dealing with water damage can be extremely stressful. It’s important to have a plan in place should such things happen, especially since water results in irreversible damage. Acting fast is essential, but having a plan in mind will help you save you much time and costs.
If you’re on the hunt for water damage restoration services in Brooklyn, Yellow Restoration offers the best services. As a 24/7 damage restoration service provider, we’ll help you restore your home and achieve peace of mind. Contact our team today for your water damage restoration needs!