How to Handle Water Damage

From malfunctioning dishwashers to leaky roofs, water damage varies in source and severity. If left unchecked, water damage can harm the stability of your property. Floors, walls and other surfaces are susceptible to harboring mold and mildew after taking on water. Our professionals at Paul Davis are the ones to call when your property needs water damage restoration.

Preparing for the Experts

Before a Paul Davis professional appears, there are several measures you can do to make the job speed up. You need to move quickly to salvage everything in your home from water damage. The first step to take is to assess the safety of your property. It's no secret that water and electricity are a dangerous mixture, so inspect the area for electrical hazards on the premises before you start cleanup. Even if they appear in-tact, avoid using items like TVs, toasters or any household appliances. To ensure total safety, shut off all breakers and circuits around your property to avoid electrocution.

First Things First

Water is a persistent liquid that can dampen every corner of your property. Relocate all your smaller things to avoid more water damage. Even, sturdy surfaces are best for airing out books, magazines and other paper materials. Lamps, collectibles and any other tabletop items should also be removed. Once you've removed handheld items, books and any other dampened materials, you can begin cleaning. To start the drying process, we recommend air movers and your home's AC throughout your home to channel air throughout the area. Let the professionals take care of the big damage. Though you may want to try, you should never use a standard home vacuum cleaner to clean water. Standard vacuums aren't equipped to suck up pools of water. If your furniture has been affected, use wooden and cement blocks to elevate sofas off the floor. Carpet and fabrics are typically heavy when exposed to water. All that extra weight makes leather goods, fur and rugs hard to dry. So if you must remove a rug, lift carefully. Hang draperies, clothing and other fabrics away from the soaked area to dry correctly. Items like draperies might not be saved easily. The same water weight that damages rugs and carpets can damage your home's foundation. Because of this, stay away from sinking ceilings or bent floors. These areas have likely absorbed the most water and could collapse around you.

Paul Davis Restoration

Paul Davis technicians are experienced with flooding. And with a little prep work from you, we can begin working sooner. We know how to get your house back to normal safely and quickly. Our experts are knowledgeable and have worked with all types of water damage in different types of home and business spaces. Additionally, Paul Davis will work with your insurance company to settle your claims promptly, so you can get life back to normal.