If you have experienced a flood, the process of water damage restoration can be overwhelming. Thankfully, there are professionals who are able to assist you in every step of the process, from immediate water removal to sanitization. Listed below are the steps you should take before hiring a water damage restoration specialist. Keep reading to learn how to find the right company for your home. Once you’ve read the information below, you can confidently make your decision.
Immediate Water Removal
If you have experienced flood damage, you need to know that immediate water removal is vital. This can save a lot of damage caused by mold, rot, bacteria, and parasites. A good water damage restoration company can inspect the damage to ensure that it is completely free of water, and will also explain the process of cleaning up the flood. You should ask questions and seek their advice if you have any.
A water damage restoration company may have all of the tools necessary to do the job effectively. Their water extraction equipment includes gas and submersible pumps, truck-mounted extraction units, industrial-grade dehumidifiers, and thermal foggers. Depending on the extent of the damage, a professional restoration service may be able to provide all of these equipment. They can also handle the drying process and provide mold remediation if necessary.
Immediate Sanitization
Cleaning household surfaces is a vital step in the restoration process. Using a household bleach solution of one cup per five gallons of water will kill bacteria and prevent the spread of illness. Wear rubber or nonporous boots and wear eye protection while cleaning. The bleach mixture should be used on household surfaces and floors. To avoid a toxic chemical reaction, do not mix bleach with ammonia or water.
After cleaning and drying, sanitization is necessary. To do this, upholstery and rugs must be cleaned with a steam cleaner or wet-and-dry vacuum. You can also rent cleaning machines from restoration companies. You can also wash surfaces with soap and water, and sanitize them with a chlorine bleach solution. If your property is infested with mold or bacteria, you should contact a restoration company right away for assistance.
Cost
The cost of water damage restoration will depend on a number of factors. Some factors are the type of water, how much of it was in your home or business, and where it was located. You can also negotiate on price with the water damage restoration company if they are willing to do future repairs for you. A good way to get a fair estimate is to ask for references. Ask for the name and contact information of past clients.
Another factor that influences the price of water damage restoration is the class of damage. Class one damage generally involves sewage backup and represents a significant health risk. Class two or three damage is considered less extensive and usually just requires cleaning. Class four damage, on the other hand, is catastrophic and typically requires total replacement. So the more expensive the water damage restoration, the higher the cost. The cost can also depend on the area of the damaged area.
IICRC Certification
There are many advantages of hiring a certified water damage restoration company. These professionals are trained to remove the source of water and restore any damaged materials. A company with an IICRC certification can also offer peace of mind, since they have been subjected to rigorous guidelines. Not to mention, they’ll charge a lower rate. However, IICRC certification isn’t a guarantee of quality customer service.
The IICRC offers several certifications to people who have completed training and passed the exam. Certifications include Water Restoration Technician, Applied Structural Drying Technician, and Applied Microbial Remediation Technician. There are many classes available, and most do not require any prior experience. Some classes, however, require that you have already taken a course or two. However, many of these courses are now offered through live streams.
Mold Growth
If you have recently experienced water damage in your home, the last thing you want to deal with is mold growth. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also be extremely dangerous to your health. As a result, it is crucial to dry the affected areas immediately. Additionally, you should be aware of certain warning signs, such as musty odors. When in doubt, call a professional water damage restoration company.
The first step is checking the exterior of your home or building. Water may accumulate in areas that aren’t immediately visible, such as on the roof or outside walls. Standing water can lead to a buildup of mold on the outside of a building, and it may even cause sewage backups. The most important step in preventing mold growth is keeping everything dry. Make sure you remove standing water to the outside of the home, and you should be fine.
Cost To Homeowners’ Insurance
The cost of water damage restoration is not always easy to estimate. The extent of the damage depends on many factors. The type of water and the size of the affected area determines the total cost of repairs. Personal property and mechanical equipment can also be affected. Depending on the type of damage, a homeowner may only be required to pay the deductible. In such a case, the homeowner may have to hire an independent insurance adjuster to estimate the total cost.
Insurers will generally cover the cost of water damage restoration if it is sudden. However, gradual damage will not be covered. That’s why it is crucial to check the plumbing in the home regularly and drain water heaters at least twice a year. Your insurer may also offer loss prevention measures that reduce the risk of water damage. A quality insurance policy will give you peace of mind, so don’t wait until it’s too late.
