Steps and Significance of Water Damage Restoration

The level of water damage restoration austin tx required for a home depends on the category or type of destruction caused by the water. Water restoration services are meant to remove the contaminated water and reinstate the conditions to a bearable and pre-damaged condition. Water damage makes water stand, therefore, providing the proper environmental conditions that support bacterial and mould growth. Standing water can lead to adverse health effects, illness, and allergic reactions of those using the facility. Water damages can lead to the destruction of property and materials such as carpets, fibrefill insulations, and drywalls. The process of restoration not only involves drying the visible water but also getting rid of the absorbed water underneath surfaces.

To ensure customer satisfaction and efficient services by water damage restoration agencies, they are required to obtain certification from a regulatory body i.e. Institute of Inspection and restoration certification. Services that are offered during the damage renovation include

• Sewage backup
• Mould removal
• Flood water
• Storm damage
• Fire damage
• Referrals to plumbing and repair services

Water damage restoration is a process that involves several steps. The purpose of each of the steps is to eliminate all water and contaminants are perfectly eliminated. The steps include

1. Inspection and assessment

This step involves the examination of the water damage and location of the damage by a restoration expert. The results obtained are a classification of the type of damage that has been caused by the problem. The specialist also investigates the types of materials that were exposed to the water and the amount of water they are likely to absorb due to their porosity traits. The level of damage and amount of work to be done to repair the damages can also be estimated using moisture detectors, moisture scourers, and hygrometers. The water source is also determined and stopped immediately. From the inspection and assessment, the homeowner is given a time and cost estimate for the repair options.

2. Water Removal

This step involves the actual removal of standing water through extraction. Standing water needs to be eliminated immediately since it can lead to further damage and deterioration of the property. Flooding in space leads to mould growth. The water extraction process requires the use of high-powered pumps and vacuums that instantly absorb all standing and surface water. Additional inspection is also necessary after water extraction to ensure all the water has been removed and there are no other components in the room such as floors and carpets that also require repairs.

3. Drying and dehumidifying

This step aims at drying out all materials that came into contact with the water using industrial air movers and dehumidifiers. This enables the technicians to eliminate water that is not easily accessible. This process prevents the growth of mould on the items and further damages such as breaking and warping. Once more the moisture levels are determined by the specialist before the cleaning process is initiated.

4. Cleaning and sanitizing

This process is best done by trained professional cleaners to ensure the safety and sanitization of the affected premises. Cleaning can be done by spraying and wiping, wet cleaning, and dry cleaning. To enhance the cleaning process other products such as abrasives, foam, and immersion cleaning can be used. The use of the protective gear is also important especially when the cause of damage is hazardous to human health. The completely destroyed items are also removed during the cleaning.

5. Complete restoration

This final step involves the reinstatement of the home to how it was before the damages took place. It involves fixing and replacing property. The amount of damage dictates what is to be done and some items may need simple fixing procedures while others may need reconstruction.

Conclusion

Water damage restoration is an emergency service done to repair damages that have already occurred. The process does not only aim at eliminating the water but also decontaminating the affected area and restoring any damaged property. For extreme cases, it may require reconstruction e.g. of porous walls and surfaces. To prevent further damages that result from water it is key to involve experts in the restoration process.

Sheri Crwn