7 Dos and Don’ts for Effective Water Damage Restoration

Water damage can occur in any home, often without warning. While many people associate water damage with basements prone to flooding, the reality is that it can happen anywhere in your home. A burst pipe, for example, could flood your bathroom, causing serious damage to the floor, foundation, walls, and more. Here are five important dos and don’ts to keep in mind when dealing with water damage restoration.

Take Action to Limit Damage

• Even if you’re planning to call for help with water damage, it’s important to take immediate steps to minimize the impact. Start by turning off all water sources to stop more water from entering your home. 

Then, use towels, paper towels, and cloths to absorb any standing water from surfaces, floors, and appliances. The actions you take in the first few minutes and hours after a water damage incident are crucial in determining how much of your home and belongings can be saved.

Call Water Damage Experts

• When water damage affects your home, the most effective step you can take is to contact professional restoration services. Leading companies, like Love Your Carpet, specialize in water damage restoration in Las Vegas and have years of experience handling such issues.

Instead of spending time drying carpets and mopping up water, leave the heavy lifting to the experts. They use advanced equipment to remove all standing water and moisture from your home quickly.

Open Windows to Dry the Area

• If the affected area has windows, open them immediately. Allowing fresh air to circulate will help dry out the space more quickly and remove the musty odor that often accompanies wet carpets, area rugs, and surfaces. The breeze helps eliminate moisture, speeding up the drying process.

Avoid Using a Vacuum on Wet Surfaces

• It’s a common mistake to think vacuuming will help remove water from carpets or area rugs. However, this can cause more harm than good. Water damage restoration experts in Las Vegas warn that using a vacuum on wet surfaces only adds more dirt to the mix, leaving carpets dirty and still wet.

Instead of vacuuming, use towels or paper towels to blot the surface or employ dryers to help evaporate the moisture.

Never Use Electrical Appliances in Wet Areas

• Never attempt to use electrical appliances in wet conditions. While it’s okay to use a blow-dryer on a slightly damp carpet, standing in a puddle of water and using electrical appliances can lead to serious risks like electrical shock. Always prioritize safety and avoid any electrical devices in areas with standing water.

Do Document the Damage

• Before you start cleaning or making any repairs, take clear pictures or videos of the damage. This documentation will be essential for insurance claims or professional restoration services. Make sure to capture all affected areas, including walls, floors, and any personal belongings that were damaged by the water.

Don’t Delay the Restoration Process

• Time is critical when it comes to water damage. The longer you wait to address the issue, the worse the damage will become. Mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours, and structural damage can worsen if the area isn’t properly dried and treated. Don’t wait. Take action immediately.

Call a professional water damage specialist after a disaster and get the help you need today. Move back into your home or restart your business quickly by hiring experienced Flood Restoration Services. Love Your Carpet provides flood restoration services for the Las Vegas Valley, whether from a burst pipe, water heater, appliance, sewage backup, or natural disaster. We offer a wide variety of water damage and flood repair services. Call us today at 702-898-6070.