Dealing with water extraction after flooding is stressful, whether the water damage is caused by a major storm, a burst pipe, or even a faulty appliance. It can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re not sure what steps to take. That’s why we’re here to guide you through one of the most important tasks: water extraction.
At All About Restoration, we know the challenges that come with water damage. Our goal is to help you not only recover but do it the right way, ensuring your property is safe, dry, and ready for life to go back to normal. Let’s walk through the best practices for handling water extraction so you’re prepared if water damage strikes.
1. Safety Always Comes First
Before you even think about starting water extraction, it’s important to make sure your home is safe. Water damage can cause a lot of hidden dangers—like electrical hazards or contaminated floodwaters. If there’s any standing water, turn off the electricity at the breaker to avoid any risk of shock.
Also, be mindful of what could be in the water. If there’s a chance the water has mixed with sewage or chemicals, stay out until professionals can assess the situation. Your safety is the priority.
2. Act Fast—Time Is Your Biggest Ally
Water damage worsens the longer it sits. Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours, and water can cause structural damage to your floors, walls, and belongings. The quicker you start the water extraction process, the better chance you have of preventing long-term problems.
For minor issues, you can start by using wet-dry vacuums, mops, or even towels to get rid of standing water. But if you’re dealing with more than just a small spill or a bit of flooding, don’t hesitate to call in professionals who have the right tools and expertise to handle it efficiently.
3. Use the Right Equipment for the Job
Not all water extraction tools are created equal, and using the right ones can make a huge difference. Wet-dry vacuums work for small puddles, but if you’re facing a more serious situation, you’ll need heavier-duty equipment like pumps and industrial vacuums to remove the water quickly.
After the bulk of the water is gone, the next step is drying the area completely. Dehumidifiers and air movers are essential here. They speed up the drying process and help ensure there’s no lingering moisture in places you can’t see, like under floors or behind walls. Leftover moisture can lead to mold growth, and that’s a headache nobody wants.
4. Don’t Forget About Hidden Water
Once you’ve removed the visible water, don’t let your guard down. Water has a sneaky way of seeping into walls, floors, and other hard-to-reach places, where it can cause damage without you noticing. Even if things look dry, there could still be moisture trapped beneath surfaces.
That’s why using moisture meters or consulting with professionals who can assess hidden water is a smart move. Ensuring every inch is dry is key to avoiding future problems like mold or weakened structures.
5. Document Everything for Insurance
If you’re dealing with significant water damage, make sure to document everything. Take photos and videos before, during, and after the water extraction process. These records will be invaluable when it comes time to file an insurance claim.
Keep a detailed list of all the steps you’ve taken and any damage you’ve discovered. This way, you can present a clear picture of the situation to your insurance provider, which will help smooth the process when you need to file a claim.
6. Know What to Throw Away
After water damage, it can be tough to figure out what to keep and what needs to go. If your home was flooded with clean water (from a broken pipe, for instance), some items might be salvageable. But if the water was contaminated—think sewage or floodwaters—it’s safer to dispose of porous materials like carpets, upholstered furniture, and mattresses, as they can hold bacteria and mold.
Items like wood, plastic, and metal can usually be cleaned, but be sure to disinfect them thoroughly. When in doubt, ask a restoration expert for advice.
7. Don’t Let Mold Get the Upper Hand
Mold is one of the biggest risks after water damage, and it can show up fast. Once mold starts growing, it can spread quickly, becoming a serious health hazard for you and your family. That’s why it’s so important to dry everything thoroughly after extracting the water.
DIY mold removal is a gamble to pull off. You’ll want to air out the space as much as possible, use dehumidifiers, and keep fans running to keep the air circulating. It might also be worth applying a mold-preventative treatment. When in doubt, consult certified mold-removal professionals like All About Restoration and we’ll inspect the area to ensure nothing’s lurking behind the walls.
8. Know When to Call for Help
We understand that you want to handle things on your own when possible, but sometimes the damage is just too much to tackle without professional help. If you’re dealing with significant flooding or water that’s been sitting for a while, it’s best to reach out to a restoration company.
Water damage restoration professionals have the tools, experience, and know-how to not only extract water but also dry and restore your home properly, preventing long-term damage and costly repairs down the line.
9. Prevent Future Water Damage
Once the water is out and your home is dry, take some time to think about preventing future water damage. Check your roof and gutters, inspect your home’s foundation for cracks, and make sure your drainage systems are in good condition. You might also want to consider installing a sump pump if you live in a flood-prone area.
These small steps can make a big difference in protecting your home from water damage in the future.
At All About Restoration, we understand how stressful and overwhelming water damage can be. That’s why we’re committed to helping you through every step of the process. If you’re dealing with water damage and need expert advice or assistance, give us a call. We’re here to ensure your home is restored safely and thoroughly, so you can get back to what matters most.
We’re your neighbors, and we’re here to help.