Safe Water Damage Cleanup Tips

Before attempting any water damage cleanup, DIYers need to wear protective gear like gloves, boots, and respirators. This goes a long way in protecting you from common hazardous materials like asbestos and lead paint. Homeowners should hire a certified professional to handle the heavy lifting. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, here are tips to help you conduct a safe water damage cleanup.

Act Quickly

Did you know surfaces exposed to moisture for over 24 hours have a high risk of mold growth? With that in mind, delaying water damage cleanup worsens the problem and causes severe structural deterioration. Even if water ingress is minor, the last thing you want is mold and mildew growth indoors. Telltale signs of fungus include colored patches on surfaces and respiratory discomfort like frequent coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and tearing. You can prevent such issues by calling a water damage cleanup service when you notice stagnant water in your home.

Ventilate Affected Areas

Another practical cleanup tip following water ingress emergencies is ventilating the affected areas to prevent mold and mildew growth. Air circulation is critical for mitigating or slowing damage, so homeowners should open windows and turn on fans to keep air moving and moderate indoor temperatures. Proper ventilation mitigates contamination and gives us time to inspect and address the problem before the damage becomes more pronounced.

Assess the Damage

When you experience water damage, assess the type of water absorbed by various items to determine the severity of the problem, whether it is rainwater, bacteria-filled sewage, broken pipes, or contaminated river water. The type of damage determines if the items are salvageable, and that’s why it is essential to work with a trusted water damage restoration service. Leverage our extensive industry expertise to ensure vulnerable surfaces are safe, such as rugs, heirlooms, mattresses, drywall, and carpets. Most of these items absorb water, creating suitable conditions for mold growth.

Expose Pockets of Saturation

Indoor spaces usually have concealed pockets of saturation, which should be opened for cleaning and drying. This includes layers between building materials that hold water and cause damage, such as structural deterioration and mold growth. In addition, carpets and other exposed fabrics hold water, contributing to the damage. We leverage innovative equipment and proven strategies to investigate all the concealed cavities in the affected area and recommend long-term solutions to prevent further damage.

If you prefer a more proactive approach during water damage restoration, hire a certified professional to guarantee safety throughout the cleanup process. Contact us at Tidal Wave Restoration and schedule a consultation with our experts. We provide top-notch water damage cleanup and remediation services at competitive rates.