What’s Involved With Water Damage Clean-up?

3 min read

This winter the temperatures in Michigan have mostly been above normal, with some freezing temperatures at night. At this time of the year, we’re usually talking about freezing temperatures and how that type of weather can often lead to frozen pipes and water damage in homes and businesses. While freezing pipes might not be as big a problem this year, water damage can result from a number of situations. Some of the most common water problems include a slab leak, old plumbing, clogged gutters, frozen pipes or a hot water heater leak. Dry winters can also compromise caulking around windows, causing a leak that you may notice in your walls. Whatever the cause of the water damage, you will want to take steps to repair the leak and dry areas quickly in order to mitigate water damage.

Prevention and Maintenance. There are some things you can do to help prevent leaks around the house.

1. Exterior caulking around the windows may prevent water leaks.
2. Gutters should be cleaned a couple of times a year to make sure water is flowing away from the house.
3. Testing a sump pump regularly is worthwhile.
4. Check the seals around your appliances, especially if they are old. And while checking appliances, make sure the hoses connected to your appliances are secure.
5. Check your HVAC system regularly to keep it clean – and change your filter often.
6. If you notice corroded pipes, have them replaced.
7. Basement walls that leak may be in need of a full waterproofing system or sump pump – jobs that should probably be left to the pros.

If you discover a leak early, here are some ways to dry out your property.

1. Move the air naturally by opening windows and doors. Opening closet and cabinet doors helps also.
2. Move the air mechanically. Restoration companies generally have high powered fans to move air faster for quicker results.
3. Dehumidify the area to remove water vapor from the air. Shut the windows and doors to decrease outside humidity in the room. When water damage is more severe, most professional restoration companies have very efficient dehumidifiers to dry out the air more effectively.
4. Pump water from the damaged area using a sump pump.
5. Remove water from floors. A professional wet/dry vacuum can be used to suck water from carpets. These vacuums may prove useful in saving rugs and wall-to-wall carpeting if the water damage is minimal. Restoration contractors often have high-powered vacuums with a large capacity for removing water from more severe conditions.
6. Remove furniture, rugs and other items that have become soaked with water. A professional restoration company can often dry these thoroughly using state-of-the-art equipment. Throw out any wet insulation.

The technicians trained by Restoration 1 of Metro Detroit have the expertise to diagnose water damage issues and take the most appropriate steps to return your home or office to a safe and habitable state.

A leak can happen at any time, even in the middle of the night. Restoration 1 of Metro Detroit offers 24/7 water damage restoration services. Our team can arrive quickly to get the cleanup process underway. We won’t leave until your property is stable and safe for your return.

If your property has sustained damage from a flood or leak, call the professionals now at Restoration 1 of Metro Detroit at 734-304-0861. We provide timely and honest service to each and every customer.