Water and flood damage restoration is a complex task that requires specialized tools and knowledge in order to be carried out properly. Unfortunately, many San Diego residents aren’t aware of this or are looking to cut down costs and attempt DIY solutions that ultimately cause additional damages to their property.
In the following article, we’ll delve deeper into this topic by discussing the top 5 biggest mistakes people make after their properties have suffered flood or water damage. Keep reading to learn more!
What not to do after water damage?
The main thing you shouldn’t do after your property has suffered water or flood damage is try to handle the situation on your own. Unless you work with a seasoned professional who takes the repair process seriously, you’ll likely make one of these 5 severe mistakes:
1. Not understanding the cause
Drying wet carpets or painting over moldy walls isn’t too difficult, but it doesn’t address the cause of your problem. It’s merely a temporary fix for an issue that will come back unless you handle the main culprit, such as a burst pipe, outdated plumbing, and foundation slab cracks.
2. Overlooking hidden damage
Some forms of water damage aren’t always obvious. Be it a pipe leaking behind your walls or somewhere in the attic, you can easily miss it if you don’t check every corner of your house.
That’s why you should partner with a trained expert. They have special equipment that detects residual moisture in your floors, walls, and other surfaces. On top of that, they can recognize and patch up any structural flaws that are easy to miss but often lie at the heart of your problem.
3. Salvaging or discarding wrong items
Your first instinct during a flood is usually to salvage anything you get your hands on. And we know where you’re coming from, especially if the items have a sentimental value. That said, don’t forget that the objects might be contaminated with floodwater, which often carries bacteria. As a result, they might be beyond repair or require disinfection before you can use them again.
On the other end of the spectrum, you may discard belongings automatically without considering their condition. To avoid making a hasty decision, contact a professional who will establish beyond any doubt whether or not you should throw the affected items away.
4. Ignoring safety
Safety comes first during these procedures, but many people forget about this rule and jump right into the restoration. From contaminated water and broken pipes to potential electrical fires and shattered glass, all sorts of risks lurk in a flooded house. So, never start the repairs without appropriate safety gear:
- Rubber boots
- Helmet
- Mask
- Glasses
- Gloves
5. Using ineffective equipment
Mops, towels, brushes, and buckets are great for everyday tidying, but flooding requires a heavy-duty approach. Unless you have top-quality dehumidifiers, air scrubbers, air movers, fans, moisture meters, industrial vacuums, and other special tools, leave the restoration to an expert.
Who offers top-rated flood damage restoration in San Diego?
Rather than attempt a risky DIY repair and do more harm than good, reach out to The Inspectors Company, the finest restoration provider in San Diego. We use state-of-the-art tools and methods to return your property to its former glory. Plus, all our technicians are insured and certified, giving you much-needed peace of mind in such a dire situation.
We also take pride in our detailed approach. Regardless of the size of your property, we’ll inspect every nook and cranny of your house and fix each affected surface. Once we step in, you’ll be able to enjoy your hikes to Mount Soledad, knowing your place is in great hands. Give us a call today!
