What Is Water Restoration?

Water Restoration is the process of bringing a home or business back to its normal condition after suffering from a water disaster. These disasters can be caused by burst pipes, clogged toilets or sinks, dishwasher failure, a flooded basement from a sewer backup or even flooding due to a natural disaster.

The Water Extraction Pros process starts with mitigation, which is stopping further damage from occurring. This is done by monitoring the property for any signs of water intrusion and taking quick action before the problem gets worse. It also includes services like placing water mitigation systems in the home or business that will monitor for any issues and alert the owner before the problem becomes severe.

Once the water mitigation is completed, then the water restoration will start. This is the process of repairing and restoring everything that has been damaged by the water. It can include services like removing furniture, drywall, carpeting, rugs and more. It also can involve more extensive repairs such as replacing drywall, flooring, insulation and other structural materials. Other things that can be done during this stage include opening windows to allow for evaporation, placing towels on puddles and more.

After the bulk of the standing water is removed, the restoration company will begin drying out the property. This is typically done by placing commercial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers around the property to pull moisture out of the structure. Moisture meters will be used to document the progress of the drying process. This is normally done until the structure is dry enough to be reoccupied.

If a structure’s occupants are unable to return to the property while it is being dried out, then tarping and boarding may be necessary. This is done to protect the contents of the property from any opportunistic thieves or pesky animals that are looking for a warm and dry place to nest. It can also be used to protect the exterior of the property as well, preventing further damage from rain or wind.

Another important aspect of this phase is cleaning and sanitization. Any items that were contaminated by sewage, bacteria or other harmful substances will need to be removed and sanitized. This is because porous materials like drywall and carpeting can hold water long after it appears dry on the surface, which can lead to harmful illnesses for occupants.

It is also worth noting that many water restoration companies are able to offer mold remediation as well. This is an extra service that can be very beneficial for homeowners in certain situations. This can help prevent the growth of dangerous fungus that can affect the health of occupants as well as reduce the amount of damage that will need to be repaired later on. It is a good idea to ask about this option when talking to your water restoration company. The benefits can be substantial.