Knowing who to call for flooding problems hit can help keep your head above water
Flooding problems are a common concern for homeowners. Whether they’re caused by a severe weather event, such as a storm or a hurricane, or they happen because of poor drainage or a malfunctioning sewer system, the result is often the same: Costly water damage that can ruin your home and property.
But do you know who to call when flooding problems strike your home? It all depends on whether you are looking to repair damage that has already been done or prevent further damage in the future.
Benefits of Hiring a Water Damage Restoration Pro
To address problems caused by a flood, you’ll need to call a water damage restoration expert. It’s important to act fast because serious water damage can happen quickly, often within the first 24 hours. Flooding in your yard or home can cause significant structural damage, leading to costly repairs to your foundation, walls, and roof.
When you call a water restoration expert, they’ll bring in specialized equipment to tackle the initial clean-up and remove as much standing water and moisture as possible, such as industrial fans and vacuums. Their timely and targeted approach will hopefully minimize the amount of water damage you face.
Plus, a restoration expert will know how to spot signs of trapped moisture, which, if left unchecked, can cause structural damage and pose health risks as mold grows. Once things are cleared and given the green light, the restorer will take care of any necessary repairs to your walls, floors, ceiling, roof, or foundation.
Can I DIY Flooding Repairs?
Though it’s possible to take on restoration and repair projects yourself, when you’ve experienced water damage, it’s probably best to leave the restoration to the experts. Water damage doesn’t just pose a threat to the structural integrity of your home, but it can also put your family’s health at risk.
For example, dangerous mold and mildew spread fast in places where you’ve incurred water damage. Once it starts growing, you could be looking at some hefty costs to kill and remove the growth. Because of the health risks, you’ll likely need to hire a mold removal expert to safely and completely eliminate it from your home.
Can I Call a Plumber or Drain Pipe Expert for Home Flooding Prevention?
If you’re looking to prevent future flooding problems, it’s good to reach out to a professional plumber or local drain pipe expert. These pros can inspect your pipes, plumbing, and even your sewer system to ensure they are free of blockages and everything is draining properly. This is a particularly good idea if your yard is always wet, floods easily, or often has standing or pooled water.
Similarly, if you find that your basement is constantly flooding, consider having a local reputable sump pump professional take a look and offer suggestions for prevention. A sump pump will help rid your basement of water when severe weather threatens by pumping and redirecting the water away from your home.
How Do Water Damage Restoration Experts Tackle Flood Repairs?
When you hire a water damage restoration pro, here’s what you can expect.
Your pro will isolate the source of the water to address leaks. This may involve turning off water to resolve a plumbing issue.
If the flooding is storm-related, a restoration expert can eliminate the water using industrial vacuums and fans.
Your pro will search for other signs of related damage. You may need to discard carpets and upholstery to prevent mold growth. Paneling, drywall, flooring, or subflooring may need replacing if the damage is substantial.
Your pro will clean, sanitize, and deodorize affected areas to kill any bacteria or fungi that had begun to germinate in those wet conditions.
Your pro will start on necessary repairs, such as replacing bathroom tile, grouting, and drywall.
The scope of the repairs will depend on the extent of the damage and your restoration budget. Ensure that you get a thorough, itemized estimate and a detailed work contract before you begin any restoration project.
