How Long Does Water Damage Restoration Take in Des Moines?

When your home or business has water damage, the first question on your mind after making sure everyone is safe is probably, “How long is this going to take?” The truth is, the timeline for water damage restoration depends on a few key factors. But in most cases, a professional team can get you from soaked and stressed to dry and restored in just a few days.

The Water Damage Process 

The Initial Response: Within Hours

Timing matters. The faster you respond to water damage, the less severe the damage will be. Most professional restoration companies aim to arrive within a few hours of your call. When they show up, they’ll assess the situation, stop the source of water if needed, and start planning the next steps.

Water Removal: 1–2 Days

Once the water damage restoration crew arrives, their first job is to get the water out fast. Using powerful pumps and vacuums, they’ll work to extract as much standing water as possible from floors, carpets, and other affected areas. In smaller situations, this could be wrapped up in just a few hours. But if a large space is involved or the water has been sitting for a while, it might take up to a day or two to fully remove it all.

Drying and Dehumidifying: 2–5 Days

Just because the water’s gone doesn’t mean everything is dry. Moisture can linger in walls, under flooring, and even in the air, places you can’t see or feel. This is where high-powered air movers and industrial dehumidifiers come in. They’ll run around the clock to pull moisture out of your home.

Technicians will check in frequently to monitor progress, adjust the equipment, and make sure nothing gets missed. This step takes the most time, but it’s also the most important; cutting corners here can lead to mold, structural damage, or that musty smell that never quite goes away.

Cleaning and Sanitizing: 1–3 Days

Once everything is dry, the focus shifts to cleaning and disinfecting. Any materials or belongings that came in contact with water need to be cleaned, or in some cases, removed, especially if the water was contaminated. Think sewage backups, stormwater, or anything with a funky smell.

Surfaces will be disinfected, odors addressed, and anything salvageable will be treated with care. The goal here is a clean, healthy space you can feel good coming back to.

Repairs and Reconstruction: Varies by Damage

Not every water damage situation requires reconstruction, but if yours does, like replacing drywall, flooring, or cabinetry, this can add anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the extent of the damage. A good restoration company will help coordinate this process so you’re not left juggling multiple contractors.

So, How Long Does Water Damage Restoration Take?

On average, you can expect the full water damage restoration process to take anywhere from 3 to 7 days. If structural repairs are needed, it could extend beyond that. But the good news? Most professional water damage restoration teams work quickly, efficiently, and with as little disruption to your daily life as possible.

Water Damage Restoration in Des Moines

If you’re facing water damage, don’t wait. Acting quickly gives you the best chance at a smooth restoration and helps avoid bigger, more expensive issues down the line. Restoration 1 of Des Moines is always ready to respond, bringing experience, care, and trusted results when you need them most.