Unravelling the Beast: Assessing the Impact of Water Damage

Three key takeaways from the article are:

1. Water damage can be classified into three main categories (clean, grey, and black water) and should be assessed in order to effectively clean and repair the affected area.
2. Special care and equipment is necessary when assessing and cleaning up water damage in order to properly identify the source of the water and disinfect the affected area.
3. Preventing future water damage can be accomplished through proper insulation and placement of appliances, and regular maintenance.

Introduction

Water damage refers to the destruction that can occur when unwanted water finds its way into homes or businesses. This can include damage caused by storms, spills, leaks, floods, and other water-related incidents. As water is the source of life and essential for sustaining an environment, it can also be destructive. An assessment of water damage will shed light on the extent of the damage and reveal the underlying causes, allowing for informed decision making when it comes to repairing and preventing such damage from happening again.

Types of Water Damage

Water damage can be classified into three categories: clean water damage, grey water damage, and black water damage. Clean water damage includes damage from rainwater, melted snow, broken pipes and appliance leaks. Grey water damage results from overflow from washing machines, toilet bowls that contain some contaminants, and water from aquariums, which may have traces of pollutants. Black water damage is the most severe form of water damage and involves sewage backups and flood waters that contain contaminants and other hazardous materials. In all cases, it is important to identify the source of the water and determine the severity of the water damage in order to effectively clean and repair the affected areas.

Assessing the Severity of Water Damage

When assessing the damage, it is important to physically inspect the affected area as well as take certain factors into account. The location of the water damage is the primary factor, since some areas are more vulnerable than others. For instance, water damage on wood floors may be particularly severe due to the expansion of the wood and possible mold growth.

The level of contamination of the water is another key factor. Cleaner water can be treated and repaired more successfully, while grey water and black water typically require more extensive cleanup and repair. Additionally, the duration of exposure is important, since prolonged exposure can lead to further damage.

To accurately assess water damage, it is important to use the right equipment. Moisture meters are used to measure the moisture content of the affected material, while infrared technology helps detect areas that are undetectable to the naked eye, hidden beneath flooring or behind walls.

Cleaning and Repairing the Damage

The first step in cleaning up the mess is drying the affected area. This can be accomplished with a combination of fans, dehumidifiers and air conditioners. Once dry, the affected items can either be salvaged or have to be replaced altogether. In some instances, furniture and items made of materials such as leather, paper, fabrics and similar materials may need to be replaced due to the damage caused by the water.

Disinfection is also important, as it helps prevent mold and bacteria from growing. Depending on the severity of the situation, various cleaning agents may be needed. After the cleanup process is complete, a homeowner or business owner must decide whether to repair or replace the damaged items. This decision should be based on the cost and the extent of the damage.

Prevention of Future Water Damage

When it comes to preventing future water damage, there are certain factors to take into account. Homeowners and business owners should ensure their appliances are correctly placed and properly insulated to minimize water damage. It is also recommended that they have ready access to shutoff valves to minimize or prevent water disasters.

In addition to the above measures, regular maintenance is important for preventing water damage. Checking for signs of water leaks and wearing, identifying and fixing water piping problems, and ensuring water heaters are properly functioning are all key preventive measures.

Conclusion

Assessing water damage can help homeowners and business owners quickly identify the source of the water and assess the severity of the damage, allowing them to make informed decisions on how to mitigate the damage and prevent future water disasters. Proper maintenance, insulation, and placement of appliances will go a long way towards minimizing possible water damage and keep homes and businesses safe.

Go West Central specializes in fire and water damage repair in Lecanto, Florida. With 30+ years of experience in emergency service and repair work, they have the experience and expertise to help you get your home or business back to its pre-damage condition quickly. Their team of certified technicians can handle any emergency, whether it’s fire, water, mold or asbestos damage. Go West Central is there when you need it the most. Contact them today for all your water and fire damage repair needs in Lecanto, Florida.

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Act Quickly to Beat Mold After a Flood

3 Key Takeaways:

  1. Mold growth can cause a variety of health and structural problems in a home after a flood, so acting quickly is essential.
  2. Homeowners should immediately remove standing water, clear the affected areas, and use fans and dehumidifiers to dry wet surfaces.
  3. If the infestation covers more than 10 square feet, it should be handled by a trained and licensed professional.

After a flood, you want to clean and restore your home quickly to its original state. But one thing you must never forget: you’re also in a race against mold. Mold is not usually a problem indoors until its spores land on a wet or damp spot and start growing. A flood in your home creates exactly the environment needed by mold spores to grow.

Once it grows, mold produces allergens, irritants, and in some cases, potentially toxic substances called mycotoxins. These products may then cause immediate or delayed allergic reactions in sensitive people, worsen asthma in those allergic to mold, and irritate the skin.

Symptoms of mold exposure include:

  1. Sneezing
  2. Runny nose
  3. Red eyes
  4. Skin rash (dermatitis)
  5. Shortness of breath
  6. Wheezing
  7. Sore throat
  8. Fatigue
  9. Flu-like aches
  10. Irritation of the eyes, skin, throat, nose, and lungs

Mold is also dangerous from a structural point. It can:

  1. Stain the surfaces it grows on.
  2. Feed on and destroy porous materials it infests, including wood, fabric, and drywall.
  3. Destroy the structural integrity of the home, including bringing down walls, roofs, ceilings, and support beams.

Unfortunately, mold grows and spreads rapidly after a flood. And typically, you have only the first 24 to 36 hours after the flood within which you must act. That is, the resulting damp environment provides the perfect conditions for it to flourish. So it begins to grow as fast as within 24 to 48 hours and you have to act quickly to beat mold after a flood.

How should you act after a flood to beat mold?

  1. Swiftly drain the water: Mold spores settle and grow quickly in damp or wet areas. If water stands in your home for more than 24 hours, some spores would possibly germinate. And if the water remains in your home for more than 48 hours, mold will definitely grow. So, soon after you confirm that your home is structurally safe, pump out or soak up standing water. But if there are several feet of water, in which fuse boxes or other electrical equipment are submerged, then don’t get to work until you’ve called emergency workers to clear the space. If the water is too much—at least above your ankles—don’t remove it yourself. Hire professionals with the right equipment and experience. A professional restoration service has heavy-duty fans, dehumidifiers, and other equipment to remove the water and dry the place quickly. Also, you need professional restoration if your home is flooded with sewage or other contaminated water. Sewage is hazardous and is best handled by someone who is trained.
  2. Clear up affected areas: You want to work speedily and effectively. And so, you need the affected areas clear and all soaked up materials removed to enable a fast drying of the space. Therefore:
  3. Haul out wet things—pillows, curtains, upholstered furniture—to a driveway or garage where they can dry.
  4. Use fans to get air moving in enclosed spaces.
  5. Use a wet or shop vacuum to suck water from wet carpets.
  6. Use a dehumidifier to reduce moisture levels in flooded rooms.
  7. Make sure as much air movement as possible over wet areas. In particular, use larger, heavy-duty machines in basements and larger areas.
  8. Ensure wet walls dry thoroughly. Remove baseboards and moldings from flooded walls to speed up drying.
  9. For walls made of sheetrock, cut small openings into the bases of the walls to ensure drying of both the back and front of the walls.

What if mold grows too quickly to prevent?

Sometimes, for whatever reasons, you just can’t respond quickly enough to beat mold. For example, the flooding may be too severe and dangerous to dare access your home. Or the flooding damage may keep power off from your home for a few days, creating a dark and damp environment that gives mold the upper hand. And by the time you act, you’ll not just be dealing with water damage, but also with a rapidly spreading mold growth.

In that case, if the flooded areas are smaller than 10 square feet, handle the mold yourself. How? Wash off mold from hard surfaces using a mixture of hot water and detergent. Alternatively, use chlorine bleach or other biocide to clean the mold from the surfaces. Chlorine bleach is preferred when there is at least one occupant of your home with a weakened immunity. But when using bleach for mold cleanup, add no more than 1 cup of bleach into every gallon of water. And never mix bleach with ammonia or cleaners that contain ammonia.

What size of infestation requires professionals?

For mold infestation that covers more than 10 square feet, call a trained, licensed professional to do the cleanup. However, the technicians you hire should have relevant experience in getting rid of mold. They should also have liability insurance and references you can call.

What items should you toss?

The following items should be tossed if they look or smell moldy, or have been underwater:

  1. Carpets, carpet padding, and rugs.
  2. Upholstered furniture.
  3. Papers and books.
  4. Food items that were in contact with the flood water, including canned foods.
  5. Computers, microwaves, window A/C units, and other appliances that have fans that were sitting in the moldy rooms.

What should you clean and save?

  1. Artwork, textiles, or clothing with no physical damage.
  2. Books, photographs, and valuable legal documents with just small levels of mold.
  3. Hard, non-porous items like porcelain, glass, jewelry, metal, and china clay dishes.
  4. Wood furniture, as long as they are in good condition, even if moldy.
  5. Some electronics and small appliances, depending on flooding conditions.

Unbeatable Professional Mold Remediation

Have you suffered a recent water damage in your home and suspect that mold could be growing? Would you like a long-term partnership with a professional mold remediation service so you have ready expertise available in case of a flood?

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, we are a team of dedicated, professional, and competent water damage and mold remediation experts in Lecanto, Florida. We respond quickly when called, swiftly extract water, salvage valuables, and prevent potential mold growth. We do our job so well that we end up in long-term relationships with our clients. Call us today for help with water or flood damage in your property.

For more information on water damage restoration and mold remediation, visit the site “West Central Equipment and Restoration.”

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How do you soak up water damage?

When addressing water damage, it’s critical that you should not allow water to stand in your home. The longer the water stands, the more damage it can potentially cause to the floors, walls, cabinets, and personal belongings. What’s more, mold and rust are significantly more likely to occur if water damage is not tackled quickly and directly. 

So after identifying water damage, always seek to soak up the water swiftly to mitigate further damage and protect your possessions. Quickly drying out the affected areas prevents moisture from spreading, enables you to salvage many precious items, and makes the restoration job easier.

Type of water involved?

Before you can soak up water and dry out affected areas, know the type of water involved in the damage.

For instance, when water damage is caused by category-1 water, also called clean water, it’s generally safe to soak up the water on your own and with not much precaution as it does not pose substantial health risks. Examples of clean water damage include rain water, condensation, leaky pipe, sink overflow, or appliance malfunction.

But category-2 water, known as gray water, can be slightly contaminated and should be handled with safety gear. It includes water with a significant degree of biological, chemical, or physical contaminants that may cause sickness or discomfort upon exposure. Examples include damage from sump pump failures, toilet bowls of urine, water discharge from washing machines or dishwashers, and seepage due to hydrostatic failure.

The third type of water you may need to soak up is category 3 or “black water” which is grossly unsanitary. It may contain harmful fungi and bacteria, contaminate the indoor environment, and cause severe sickness or discomfort. Black water includes water from sewage, storm surge, rising water from streams or rivers, seawater, standing water, or ground surface water.

While you can safely soak-up and dry water damage due to clean water on your own, you should always involve water damage cleanup professionals to assist you with gray water and black water damage irrespective of the size. 

In these cases, consider contacting experts. Qualified licensed professionals have the right equipment and experience to soak up the water without exposing unaffected areas and inhabitants to dangerous contaminants.

Remove porous materials

Before you soak up water after damage, remove porous materials from the affected areas.  Materials such as insulation, fabric, unsealed cement, wood, carpet, and drywall easily absorb water and may make the cleanup process difficult. 

If the items have soaked in water, they may need to be cut and thrown away. That’s because water permanently damages porous materials by warping or shrinking them. They are also organic in nature and provide ample nutrients for the growth of mold.

If there is a gorgeous piece of furniture or other porous item you desire to save, try isolating it and drying it out. If the damage is already too much, especially if it is a drywall, you may need to eventually replace it.

Soaking up the water

To deal with water after damage, first focus on getting as much of the standing water as possible out of the house and affected areas. Also, consider purchasing an inexpensive squeegee to physically push the water out through your door, garage, or porch.

  1. Use a mop

The tried and true traditional mop is still incredibly effective at soaking up and removing water from the floor. A thick enough mop or towel will soak up a lot of water quickly. Again, you don’t need a special towel or tool for this; a regular mop can easily soak up standing water from around your home.

For water that is collected in only a portion of your home, take steps to prevent it from spreading to other rooms, especially if you have wooden floors and you’re worried about water seeping underneath. Focus your initial cleaning efforts on protecting more walls and flooring from the encroaching water.

  1. Use a pump

If the water is several inches deep, a mop may not be enough. Instead, consider using a sump pump, either rented or purchased. A sump pump is a submersible pump that constantly moves water through a pipe or hose. 

Another option is a wet or dry shop vacuum rated for use in wet conditions. Such a vacuum can powerfully soak up water from carpets and give you a fighting chance of saving your rugs and walls. Avoid an ordinary household vacuum whose interior is not protected from water.

  1. Dry out affected areas

After you soak up and remove standing water, dry the affected areas within 24-48 hours to prevent rust and mold. If there isn’t high humidity, open doors and windows to increase air circulation and get rid of moisture.

Next, use high-powered fans to increase air circulation in the affected areas, especially in case of smaller water damage. When a larger area is affected, engage a high-capacity dehumidifier to thoroughly dry out floors, walls, and surrounding carpet, wood, and other materials.

Lastly, when appropriate, use desiccants (silica gel, calcium oxide, clay) to soak up leftover moisture. Place the water-permeable desiccant packages (tubs or sachets) near affected flooring, walls or wet items to absorb moisture.

Once you remove the water and the porous and damaged materials, thoroughly disinfect the entire area before you begin repair work. Using bleach solution, lightly spray and wipe down the affected areas. Disinfection will ensure no mold spores are left behind to germinate.

Would you like help with water damage due to gray or black water? Are you experiencing the after effects of overwhelming water damage that merits advanced professional intervention?

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, our technicians tackle water damage on a regular basis so we’re prepared for the worst. 

We have some of the most effective equipment to target the removal of water and quickly dry affected areas quickly and safely.

For more information on water damage restoration, visit the site “West Central Equipment and Restoration.”

How fast does mold grow after a flood?

After a flood, it is not merely the integrity and contents of your home that are at risk, but also the surfaces may be damaged by mold. Mold is often present in the interior and exterior of your home as tiny, invisible spores floating in air. 

But when conditions become favorable for their growth as a result of a flood, they will germinate upon landing on surfaces and begin establishing colonies. And then from tiny invisible colonies, they spread to more areas. Eventually, they produce visible growths, which in turn stain and damage surfaces, and begin to threaten the health of the occupants, particularly those with asthma and allergies.

So how fast does mold grow after a flood?

It takes 24 to 48 hours after a flood for mold to grow. This initial growth is usually invisible as the fungal colonies involved are still few. From these few colonies emerge larger colonies as spores spread from one surface to another.

If no action is taken to remove the water and thoroughly dry affected surfaces, the number of mold colonies can increase significantly, resulting in a visible growth within 18-21 days. Failure to remove water promptly allows for a favorable indoor moisture and temperature level, which again, accelerates the growth. 

Mold grows faster indoors when the interior is darker, warmer, and more humid. It also grows and spreads swiftly when the surfaces are softer, porous and organic—with the organic surfaces providing the necessary nutrients to support the growth of the fungi.

What factors determine how quickly mold grows after a flood?

  1. Length of time before the flood water is removed

How fast mold grows after a flood depends on how long the flood water stands in your home. If the water is not removed for at least 8 hours, there is an increased risk that mold will grow within 48 hours. And if the water isn’t removed for a few days, visible mold can appear within 18 days.  

But if you act fast and remove the water within 2-4 hours and dry up the surfaces, it is unlikely that mold will grow. Prompt and active use of fans to boost air circulation and dehumidifiers to dry the interior also prevents mold growth.

That is why it is critical to swiftly extract the water, fix moisture issues and thoroughly dry affected areas after flooding. For the quicker you clean and dry your home after the flood, the lower the chances of mold growth.

  1. Presence of organic surfaces

Mold spores germinate more quickly on organic surfaces. Once they land on living surfaces, they find enough food to grow and spread rapidly throughout your property. 

The availability of several organic surfaces in your home will determine how fast mold grows after a flood. Prioritizing inorganic surfaces can prevent or slow down the growth of mold in case your home floods.

  1. Indoor temperature

Mold spores germinate quickly after a flood when the indoor temperature is warmer, usually 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.  The higher temperature provides the right condition for the spores to re-activate and regenerate, increasing their chances of germination and growth.  Keeping your home as cool as possible after a flood is a great way of slowing down the germination of spores to allow ample time for you to tackle the problem at its initial stages.

  1. Interior ventilation

Mold grows faster in humid and poorly ventilated homes. So by keeping your home airy and dry, you can slow down the growth and spread of mold.

How do you prevent mold growth after a flood?

Mold is likely to grow in your home after a flood if the water damage is severe and the water stands indoors for several hours to many days. Growth may also occur if more surfaces are affected and they are not completely dried.

You should also:

  1. Promptly fix leaks that caused the flooding.
  2. Remove water damaged items or materials that you can’t completely clean or dry.
  3. Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to lower interior humidity levels.
  4. Use fans or open windows and doors to allow air to circulate.
  5. Clean and dry both the visible and the less apparent areas where water or moisture may be trapped, including underneath floorboards or within walls.

Efficient, trustworthy flood damage restoration

When your home floods you need to remove the water and dry the affected surfaces quickly to prevent further damages and possible mold growth. The best approach is hiring a professional flood damage restoration service to help remove the water faster and carry out speedy, meticulous drying of affected surfaces. Also, because flooding can cause mold to grow in hidden, unseen areas, like inside walls, working with a professional service will help tackle unapparent mold growths. 

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, we have the latest industrial grade equipment to swiftly extract flood water and to rapidly dry affected surfaces, preventing potential mold growth. You’ll especially benefit from our services if your home is flooded with contaminated water, such as sewage, which is extremely hazardous and best handled by trained, experienced damage cleanup professionals. 

To get professional mold removal and flood damage restoration services in Lecanto, Florida, call us now at +1 (352)-270-8417. For more information on flood damage prevention, mitigation, and restoration ideas, tips and tricks, visit the site “Go West Central”

What are 3 ways to reduce flood damage?

Whether a home floods because of an overflow of a nearby river, a heavy thunderstorm, clogged storm drains, or broken water mains, the cost of cleaning and restoring flood damage can be enormous. 

For instance, at least $53,000 is required to clean and restore a 2500-square-foot home that floods to just six inches. And the total cost of the flood damage restoration process can be much higher depending on the type of property damaged, extent of spread of the flood, number and value of items affected and subsequent replacement costs.

Therefore obviously it is better to take measures to prevent a home from flooding rather than to clean up and restore it after a flood.  Preventive measures also reduce potential damages should a home eventually flood.

Here are 3 best ways to reduce flood damage in your home

  1. Have your home inspected regularly

Having your home regularly inspected can promptly pick up issues that may make it vulnerable to flooding. For example, frequent inspection can reveal faults in a home’s drainage system and allow for a timely correction to prevent flooding.

With regular inspection, you’ll often find and remove debris from the gutters. You’ll also correct any leaks or gaps in the gutters that may direct water towards the home’s foundation instead of away from it. Equally, you’ll be able to make sure downspout extensions divert water far away from the foundation.

Integrity of the foundation of your home is critical in preventing flooding. So check the foundation regularly for cracks. If there are any cracks, fill them up to prevent possible water seepage into your home.  To seal larger cracks, hire a basement specialist or structural engineer.

The windows should not allow water into your home. Make sure that windows fasten firmly and when appropriate buy window well covers that close securely to prevent entry of water into the wells.

Re-grading your yard is an effective flood control measure. Look for and correct potential trouble spots in the yard, especially if drainage problems tend to occur after it rains.

Ensure that the soil within three yards from your house slopes away in order to direct water-flow away from the foundation.  Dig trenches or install drains to facilitate runoff, and plant vegetation or build a rain garden to absorb away water runoff.

  1. Install flood-control equipment

There are a number of installations that can reduce flood damage. First, you can install flood vents to keep floodwater flowing through an enclosure below your home, and to reduce water pressure from building and damaging the foundation or walls.

Second, you can install a sump pump to direct groundwater away from the building and prevent basement flooding. Since storms are associated with loss of electricity, have a backup battery to run the sump pump in case of power outage.

Third, you can install flood damage-resistant flooring in flood-prone areas, such as basements. Flooring materials like rubber, vinyl, and ceramic tiles are flood damage-resistant. For walls and ceiling, water-resistant cement board, pressure-treated wood, or concrete are appropriate.

If you are being especially thorough, you can install a backflow preventer in the main sewer line. It will minimize your home’s exposure to the main sewer backup. 

Your home’s sewer line should also be inspected by a professional to clean and unclog it and identify any blockages. Avoid putting things down your home’s pipes that could cause a clog or backup such as large food scraps or cooking grease.

Consider installing a flood alert system.  The alert system will provide an early warning in case of a flood or emergency. There are many water sensors and warning devices in the market, and even the most basic system will give the necessary early warning. Similarly, sign up for emergency alerts through the local emergency management department.

  1. Store essentials off the ground

To reduce flood damage, you need to minimize exposure of utilities, appliances, documents, and equipment to flood water. An easier way to ensure this is keeping these essentials off the ground.

Elevate your fuel tanks, washing machines, dryers, central air conditioning units, and heat pumps above the ground. If possible, locate them in the attic or higher floors.  

Keep anything that could be damaged by water off the basement—books, pictures, and electronic equipment must never be on the basement. If you have no other option, store the items in a cabinet or elsewhere above the ground.

Place valuable documents, such as birth certificates and other records in watertight containers, like a waterproof safe. And have such a safe ready as part of your emergency supply kit that you can quickly grab and take with you.  

When there are essentials that have to be on the lower floors or located outside, ensure they are placed on platforms positioned at least 1 foot above the base flood elevation. Anchor the items placed on platforms to prevent their collapse, flotation, or lateral movement.

Equally, position switches, outlets, electrical wiring, fuse boxes, and electrical service panels at least 1 foot above flood elevation levels. 

Want help with flood damage throughout Florida? Call the number +1 (352)-270-8417 to link up with skilled, knowledgeable, and experienced flood damage restoration from West Central Equipment and Restoration.

For more information on flood damage restoration, visit the site “West Central Equipment and Restoration.”

7 Steps to Take Immediately After Water Damage

When water damage arises in your property, you need to have the water removed and the property restored as soon as possible.  No matter the cause of the damage—a leaking appliance, broken pipe, a fire, or flooding—the longer the water sits in your property the more potentially serious and expensive the problem can be.

For instance, allowing the water to sit in the premises for a few hours can result in saturation of walls and ceiling, and in all manner of structural damage and safety hazards. And when the water sits in your home for more than 24 hours, it can allow mold to grow.

So after water damage, it’s best to act quickly. If possible, you need to identify the source of the water and cut off further inflow into your property. And when it is a massive damage, it’s essential to contact a professional water damage restoration service immediately. 

What are the 7 steps to take immediately after water damage?

  1. Call your insurance company

If your property is covered by homeowner insurance, then the first step should be to call your insurance provider. During the call, you’ll learn whether your insurance policy covers the kind of damage that has occurred.

Your insurance provider will explain what is covered by the policy. Then an adjuster will be dispatched to your property to come assess the damage and evaluate your possible claim. Your insurance provider will also give you the go ahead to undertake cleanup.

  1. Document the damage

After speaking with your insurance provider, you need to make a comprehensive documentation of the damages. 

Take photos of the nature and degree of the damage. Record videos of the level of water, the rooms affected, and the items destroyed.  Create lists of items involved and the extent of the damages.

You will then discuss your documents with the adjuster. And after that, you’ll need to keep them for the subsequent claims process.

  1. Take the necessary safety measures

Depending on the degree of the damage, your home may be unsafe. For example, if the water damage is caused by flooding, it may destroy the structure of your home and render it unsafe. In such a case, leave your home while professionals assess the property for occupational safety.

If your property has faced a mild-to-moderate water damage, you may stick around. But you must still take safety precautions as you work to prevent further damage. For example, you must switch off the main source of power to your home—water and electricity do not mix. Avoid moving into flooded areas before you turn off electricity.

Generally it’s best to wear protective clothing, such as gloves and rubber boots before you move items from the flood or just re-enter your flooded premises. This will protect you from injury and potential infection, particularly if the water is contaminated.

  1. Remove the water

As soon as your insurer authorizes damage restoration, start removing the water. Generally, water should not be allowed to sit in the property for more than 8 hours. And when circumstances are difficult, effort should be made to extract it within 24 hours.

Wearing protective gear, remove the water using plastic tubs or buckets. Also, make sure to remove water from furniture, under carpets, floors, walls, mattresses, and other items that might have soaked up the water.

After removing excess water, turn your attention to water absorbed by items or hidden in hard-to-access areas. Using a mop, absorb the remaining pockets of water. Remove and air-dry mattresses, cushions, curtains, pillows, and other items that might have soaked in water.

Besides, if your property is flooded by an overwhelming amount of water, you need to have it extracted and cleaned up by a professional water damage restoration service. Call a reputable provider as soon as possible to help with that.

  1. Dry out affected areas

The next step after water extraction is drying all the affected areas and items. So with all the standing water removed, switch on a dehumidifier, air conditioner, or fan to help remove moisture and dry out your home. 

Floor fans and air movers are effective in drying damp areas. But you can also use a wet-dry vacuum to finish the drying process or when there is not much standing water.  As you dry affected areas, drag away items such as rugs and cushions from the scene to allow the areas to ventilate and dry properly within 24 hours.

  1. Check and clean mold growth

If by any circumstances the water stays in your property for more than 24 hours, it can potentially cause mold growth.  Mold tends to grow when water sits in a property for a day or two after a flood in areas such as the basement, closet, and showers.

Should you find mold, you can use typical cleaning agents, such as soap and bleach, to address the mold issue. But you should understand that this is only a preliminary measure that may not eliminate the mold completely.  So if there is a significant mold problem, then you should reach out to a professional mold restoration service, especially if the affected areas are more than 6 square feet.

When cleaning up mold from any affected areas, avoid spreading mold spores elsewhere in your home.

  1. Complete the necessary repairs

With the water removed, affected areas dried and mold checked it is now time to complete restoring your property by repairing damaged areas. For repairs, you should hire a professional to make sure that they are done right the first time.

Generally, after water damage, you may need to replace your drywalls, remediate mold damages, replace basement wall panels and flooring, and restore any new laminate flooring. A professional will conduct a detailed inspection of your property, recommend what to repair and how to conduct the repairs, and go ahead with the repairs.

After the repairs and restoration work, your home will be back to a livable condition.  If you engaged a professional restoration service, they will give you the go ahead once your home is restored. But if the restoration is done after a natural disaster, you may need the approval of the local government before you can move back in.

Are you looking for a reputable, effective water damage restoration service in Lecanto, Florida? Get in touch with West Central Equipment and Restoration to help you deal with the damage. 

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, we have a team of knowledgeable, experienced technicians who will help resolve the damages as quickly as possible. We provide 24/7 emergency water damage restoration service and arrive at your home or business premises fast !! 

For more information on water damage restoration services, visit the site “West Central Equipment and Restoration.”

5 Immediate Steps to Handle Water Damage Emergency

You may not expect it. But one day, somehow, it’s very likely that a water damage emergency will impact your property. 

For most homes, water damage emergencies occur during floods or storms. However, such emergencies may also arise due to plumbing issues or leakages that go on for several hours.

When it occurs, water damage can be devastating. It not only threatens the value of your property, but it can also make it unsafe for the occupants. Plus, it can potentially result in massive structural damage and inflated repair costs.

What steps should you take to handle a water damage emergency?

You can never exactly predict or prepare for when and how it might arise. Nevertheless, a prompt response is vital to preventing further damage water can cause.

In case of water damage emergency, make sure to:

  1. Quickly identify and fix the source of the water

Prevention is key. The quicker you can stop the inflow of water into your home, the more potential damage you can prevent. 

So when there is a leakage in your home, the first step you should take is to identify and locate the source of the water. 

If the water comes from a pipe, shut off the valves. And if it is due to flooding, take the necessary measures to protect your home from the flood.  

  1. Evacuate the occupants of your property to a safe area

If the amount of water involved poses any risk to human life, you should make sure that all the occupants of the home are evacuated and taken to a safer building or area. 

You should also safely switch off power to the property and unplug all electrical devices to eliminate the risk of electrocution. Remember, electricity conducts through water and can be fatal.

  1. Protect valuable items

One of the problems associated with water leakage and flooding is loss or destruction of valuable items. So if you can get inside your property after water damage, then you should prioritize protection of your precious items from soaking water and being damaged. 

Move your furniture from affected areas to protect them from potential mold growth. Also, dry various items, such as carpets, clothing and curtains, thoroughly to prevent mildew. 

  1. Contact your insurance company

Water damage can cause huge losses.  And you’ll need your homeowner insurance provider to help you recover various items lost during the emergency.

It is advisable that you call your insurance provider as soon as a water damage emergency arises. Ask the provider about the steps you should take and what they expect from you.

The company is likely to send a claims adjuster to your home immediately. The adjuster will assess the damage, estimate the losses, and recommend a settled claim for compensation.

Thoroughly document the damages through photos and videos in order to make a compelling claim that will help make your case. As the claim progresses, consider keeping the receipts and all the records of the proceedings with the insurance company. 

  1. Clean and restore your home

The extent of cleaning and restoration will depend on the amount of damage. For a small, manageable damage, you can simply involve yourself and family. Make sure all of the cleaning is prompt and thorough in order to prevent further damage and the growth of mold.

For a massive water damage emergency, a lot of effort and time may be required to restore your home. So it’s advisable to involve professionals to assist with the restoration as soon as is practicable. 

Professional technicians are skilled in salvaging valuable items, replacing carpets, flooring and wooden surfaces, and assessing water damage, including water that gets into hidden places.

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, we offer water damage restoration services designed to address all manner of emergencies. 

We understand the fundamentals of assessing water damage, fixing leakages, extracting flood water, salvaging items, repairing and restoring affected areas as well as preventing mold growth. 

For more information on emergency water damage restoration, visit the site “West Central Equipment and Restoration.”

What is flood remediation?

Flood remediation refers to the activities carried out after a flood damage to reverse or cure the damage caused by unwanted water accumulation. It involves cleaning up, drying, and sanitizing affected areas. 

Usually, after a flood, the recovery process has three phases:

  1. Mitigating water damage, which involves tackling the damage left behind after the flood and minimizing further damage
  2. Flood remediation, which involves cleaning, drying, and sanitizing affected areas and materials
  3. Reconstruction work that ensures the property goes back to its pre-flood condition

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, we know that most flood waters contain refuse, deceased animals, feces, soil and other debris. And this can and does leave a foul-smelling sledge on every surface of your home. 

Also, the water can collect behind walls and areas that you can’t see, resulting in dangerous mold. And worse, the leftover standing water can enable microbial growth in fabrics like carpet and even drywall.

So we will act swiftly, boldly and professionally to eliminate the health threats that the flood water may bring to your home. After you contact us, we will:

  1. Gather information from you over the phone and make arrangements to reach your property immediately.
  2. Quickly and accurately assess the flood damage situation as soon as we arrive in order to know what activities to prioritize.
  3. Determine the scope of work required
  4. Ask you to sign a work authorization form to give us legal access to your property
  5. Extract standing water quickly
  6. Go on with the remediation and restoration work

So how is flood remediation done?

  1. Salvaging items

Part of flood remediation is saving and cleaning items from flooded areas.  Of course, certain items such as pillows, box springs and mattresses are porous and will be full of multiplying microbes so they can’t be restored. We’ll help you itemize such items for insurance purposes before we dispose of them.

But for items that can be salvaged from your property, we will quickly remove, clean, and store them before we proceed with other remediation steps.

We will make sure to salvage precious items including:

  1. Solid wood furniture that isn’t padded or cushioned
  2. Photographs and critical paper documents
  3. Drapes, clothing, area rugs, and other fabrics
  4. Large appliances that have not been submerged
  5. Various electronics, including computers
  6. Cleaning affected areas

Protecting themselves with gloves, goggles, boots, gowns, and respirators, our flood remediation technicians will move in quickly, turn off gas and electricity and begin the cleanup process. We will employ water extractors, pumps or vacuums to remove all standing water from cavities and from all soaked materials.

Materials that may stain the floors and walls are also removed. They may include curtains, rugs, pot plants, wood, books, and metal furniture. Mud is shoveled out, and the walls and floors are scrubbed before being disinfected with bleach solution. 

  1. Drying and dehumidifying the space

When there is minor flooding, the drying process takes a few days. But in case of a major flooding, the drying process may take a week or longer and may require sophisticated equipment.  

In short, wet-dry vacuums are used to thoroughly clean and dry the carpet, floors and walls. Then air dehumidifiers are placed in affected areas to dry them quickly and prevent mold growth. Mild chemical treatment may also be used to kill existing mold, preventing potential spread.

For porous materials such as drywall and wood, extensive structural drying techniques are used. A combination of centrifugal air movers, heavy-duty dehumidifiers, aerodynamic axial fans, and hardwood floor drying systems are used.

  1. Sanitizing everything

Since flood water is unsafe, everything that comes into contact with it should be sanitized. Even if your home was flooded with gray water that did not contain pathogens, we will still sanitize to guarantee safety. We use powerful disinfectants during this process, but are quite careful on where and how we apply disinfectant solutions on various items or surfaces, especially wooden furniture.

Timely flood damage remediation

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, we offer emergency flood damage remediation 24/7. We’ll reach you quickly to help with your flood damage emergency, mitigate the damage, and embark on remediation and restoration. 

Our process involves:

  1. Initial inspection
  2. Water extraction
  3. Cleaning of structural elements and furnishings
  4. Deodorization
  5. Dehumidification (drying by air movement)
  6. Structural repairs
  7. Mold prevention
  8. Restoration

We are proud of our advanced equipment and supplies, such as:

  1. Moisture meters for detecting wet areas
  2. Professional pressure cleaners
  3. Self-contained vacuum equipment
  4. Negative air machines with HEPA filters
  5. Mold-killing and antibacterial solutions
  6. Fans, air dehumidifiers, and heaters
  7. Generators (when power is not available)

You can count on us to do a great job. For more information on flood damage remediation and restoration, visit the site “West Central Equipment and Restoration.”

What Do I Do If My House Floods?

Typhoons and heavy rains are not the only reason why there’s flooding in your house. Your house may flood due to an overflowing toilet, a burst pipe, or a breakdown of your washing machine.

Untidy and dangerous

When your house floods, you need to quickly bring the situation under control to prevent potential exposure to contaminated water or widespread damage to your property and belongings.

Flood water is usually not clean and may contain harmful bacteria, viruses, molds, fungi, fecal matter, chemicals, dissolved gasses, and even snakes or other creatures. 

While the most immediate risk posed by floodwater is damage to your property and loss of possessions, it can also create health risks for your family.

The substances in flood water can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, eye irritations, headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. 

What should you do after a flood in your house?

If it is a massive flood, evacuate your family to a safe place and wait until your home is safe again to re-enter. 

For a small flood, you will need to wear protective gear, stop the water from the source, remove the water, and dry your house. Wearing protective equipment such as rubber gloves and boots will protect you from injuries and bacteria-filled water.

Since water and electricity are a dangerous mix, you should turn off electricity in your house before you start removing the water. Ensure the electrical breaker is off before you step on wet areas or handle any electronics and appliances connected to electricity. If turning off the power in your house means standing on wet areas or in contact with plugged appliances and electronics, call an electrician to turn the power off.

Prepare to make your claim

Before you remove the floodwater, remember to document the damage first. Documentation is crucial when making an insurance claim. It will show your home insurance provider the specific damages to your property and belongings. Take several photographs and video footage of the damages. 

Also, create a list of what’s damaged and indicate whether it can be repaired, cleaned, or disposed of. Note the value of every item and take as many photos before, during, and after the cleanup. With these records, your adjuster will have an easy time during a damage assessment.

Call your home insurance provider to send an adjuster to your house as you document the damage. The insurance adjuster assigned to your claim will help you quantify the damage, confirm that the damages are covered and assist you in finding contractors to repair your home.

Sometimes you may pay for emergency expenses to bring the flood under control.

For example, you may pay a plumber to shut down the water supply. When you pay for any emergency services, keep the receipts. Your home insurance provider will likely pay for the emergency mitigation expenses as part of your overall claim. Some insurers will cover additional costs if the flood requires you move outside your home.

What is the best thing to do after flooding?

Contacting a reputable flood damage restoration company is the essential first step, depending on the extent of water damage. Whether it originates from a broken pipe, a leaking appliance, sewer backup, a flooded basement, or flooding after a fire has been extinguished, it brings serious problems that will need to be addressed. 

If you don’t remove the floodwater immediately, mold can begin to grow within as little as 24 hours, even from small amounts of moisture.

You need to deal with it quickly and effectively to prevent widespread damage. A flood restoration service will promptly respond, clean up the water, dry and disinfect the area, and make the necessary repairs within a short time.

Water and moisture can damage hardwood floors fast, so the restoration process should begin as soon as possible. Flood damage restoration should begin within the first 24 to 48 hours after the disaster. Professional service will ensure a safe and correct water removal as soon as you call them to your property.

When the flood is due to gray or black water from sinks and sewers, you must avoid direct contact with the water. Working with a professional flood damage restoration company with the right expertise and protective equipment will help to clean the water safely.

In some cases, you may need to remove flooring, drywall, and insulation to prevent mold and mildew from spreading in your home. Furniture may also need to be dried, cleaned, or thrown away, depending on the extent of the damage. 

When professionals carry out these tasks, they’ll also try to salvage valuable belongings, reduce losses, and minimize the overall cost of the damages and restoration.

Lastly, working with a flood restoration company will enable you to get the right advice. After water damage, you will need to determine whether your drywall, wet carpet, appliances, or furniture are destroyed or can be reused. 

The flood damage restoration professionals will inspect your property and give expert advice on the extent of damage, necessary repairs, and measures to prevent future floods.

Dedicated, professional flood damage restoration in Lecanto, Florida

Do you live in flood-prone areas in Florida? Would you like professional assistance with water damage restoration? 

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, we provide expert flood damage restoration services throughout Florida. 

We offer:

  • 24/7 rapid response
  • Proper inspection and damage assessment
  • Meticulous water removal and extraction
  • Complete dehumidification
  • Cleaning and sanitizing
  • Mold testing and remediation
  • Air quality testing
  • Debris removal
  • Restoration of damaged areas

Our extensive experience tackling insurance claims will help you get a more accurate and fair settlement claim from your insurance provider. 

Call us today for more information on flood and water damage restoration!

What to do if your house floods

Flooding can be damaging and devastating. Whether due to heavy rains, a sewer backup, malfunctioning sump pump, or a burst pipe. Not to mention you will be exposed to contaminated water, damage your valuable belongings, or suffer long-term structural damages.

What should you do if your house floods?

1. Act swiftly to prevent further damage

At the first sign of water in your house, cut off the power connection to all low-lying power outlets to minimize the risk of electrocution. 

Unplug and move all machines and equipment such as heaters, freezers, lamps, and power tools to a safer location. 

With large appliances, such as dryers, washers, and freezers, unplug and put them on blocks to keep them out of the rising water.

If your house has been hit by a major flood that makes it entirely unsafe to stay, evacuate your family to a secure location. You can monitor the flood until it’s safe to return.

Upon return, turn off the power to avoid electrocution. Wear protective clothing such as rubber boots and gloves as you reenter your home to shield yourself from the contaminated water and the debris in it, even sewage.

If it floods in your home while you’re away or asleep, contact your local utility company to help cut the power to your home. Do not touch electrical devices or panels with your feet in the water. 

Keep your electric sump pump plugged in—you can use a backup generator for this. You may also need a backup generator to power water vacuums, additional pumps, and lights.

2. Call your insurance company

Your homeowner insurance is likely to cover flooding—most do cover floods due to backed-up city sewers, storms, storm drains, burst pipes, and broken sump-pumps. 

Upon calling, your insurance company will send an adjuster to assess and determine the extent of damage and whether it is covered. For covered damages, you are paid as soon as they are ascertained.

Remember, flood damage repairs may be too costly. You need the insurance payout to get your house back in order with less financial burden. 

The adjuster may not arrive as soon as you call. Make sure to document everything, including their values, and to take as many photos as possible before, during, and after cleanup. 

These will be useful when the adjuster assesses the damage.

3. Stop the water

Quickly identify the source of the floodwater and find a way to stop more water from coming in. Unless the flood is an act of nature, you can control the water at the source. 

For instance, you can turn off the main water valve to your house to prevent further flooding.

If your sump pump is broken or malfunctioning, you can replace it to keep up with continuing rains and prevent further damage to your basement, garage, crawl space, or main floor. 

And if the flood is due to a burst pipe, you can fix the plumbing as soon as possible.

4. Removing the water

The process used to remove the water depends on the extent of flooding. You can bail water out using buckets and bins or hoses to drain considerable amounts of water. 

As the water starts to recede, you can use a wet vacuum to suck the remaining water and moisture from your carpets and floors. 

And in case of minimal flood damage, you may just mop up the mess.

5. Drying the home

Standing water may be successfully removed from your home, but you still need to deal with the dampness and wetness. 

If the power supply is restored, you can use your air conditioning and portable fans to dry the wet areas. 

And to deal with closed spaces, like basements and crawl spaces, dehumidifiers are ideal. Dehumidifiers are designed to remove excess moisture in the air, dry out your home, and minimize potential damages.

6. Cleanup

After you’ve called your insurance provider and they have allowed you to go ahead with cleaning, you can start post-flood cleanup, either doing it yourself or involving a professional. 

Cleanup will involve determining what can be salvaged or thrown away, areas that can be repaired, and how to minimize the effects of future floods.

If you have to clean your house on your own, make sure to wear proper protective gear, such as waterproof boots and waders. 

Carefully and thoroughly remove the water, salvage your belongings, dry out the affected areas, and disinfect the spaces and objects touched by the water. 

Dry your carpets and rugs as soon as possible to prevent mold and mildew. 

All the windows should be open to allow faster drying and prevent mold formation.

If you’re overwhelmed or lack the skills and equipment to deal with the flood damage properly, call a flood damage restoration service to help with the cleanup. 

Professional cleaners will arrive promptly, properly remove the water using industrial-grade equipment, carefully salvage your valuable belongings, completely dry the house, and repair the damages.

If your house is likely to flood again in the future, flood damage restoration professionals will do their work in a way that mitigates the damage that the next flood can cause. They do this by installing property flood resilience measures.

Want to work with a reliable flood damage restoration company? 

At West Central Equipment and Restoration, we have the right equipment and personnel to deal with any commercial or residential property flooding effectively. We offer 24/7 emergency flood damage restoration and promptly respond after your call to ensure the least possible damage.

Trust us to identify the cause of the flood quickly, stop the water flow at the source, remove the water, salvage your items, dry your house, repair the damages, and undertake steps to minimize damages from future floods. We can also assist you with your insurance claims. 

Call us today for more information on water, fire, and flood damage restoration in Lecanto, Florida.