If there’s one thing that all homeowners should be on the lookout for, it’s water damage. It poses a lot of physical and health risks for people living in a household, which is why such damages should be addressed as soon as possible. However, water damage is not always easily identifiable to an average homeowner, especially if the source is not as evident as a heavy storm or an overflowing toilet, but rather a leaking or burst pipe somewhere along the walls, flooring, or ceiling of your home. That is why I’ve come up with a list you can use to determine if your home has water damage and if you require water damage restoration services:
- There is a mouldy or mildew smell with an untraceable source
- There is a stain or discolouration due to dried moisture on plaster, drywall, floors, wooden furniture, etc.
- If moisture does not dry out, the wood or drywall will swell, causing the paint to crack and fall off.
- Mould is growing on your walls or your ceiling due to a pipe leak behind it.
If you are experiencing at least one of these, then it is very much recommended for you to get it resolved as soon as possible. Otherwise, you could be looking at:
- Rotting or ruined furniture and appliances
- Unsightly stains and peeling on your walls
- Health issues such as respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and infections
So, if you suspect that you are experiencing water damage in your home, here are some tips to make the process of getting it fixed, repaired, and sanitised as easy and painless as possible::
- Clear out damaged areas – Make sure to clear out areas near the damage. Remove appliances, furniture, or fixtures that may get wet or ruined. If things have already gotten wet, make sure to wipe them down and hang them out to dry.
- Switch off your home’s water main – If you think your water damage is plumbing-related, immediately turn off your water main to prevent further leaks and damages. This, however, means you will have no running water in the meantime. So, be sure to have the damages addressed as soon as possible.
- Do not wait to call for professional help – If you have experience in doing the restoration project by yourself, then, by all means, do it. But, if such repairs are not in your alley, do not attempt to do it yourself and call for a professional immediately.
For the plumbing aspects, call for a professional plumber who will help you assess, locate the source, and repair the damaged pipes on the same day. The same goes for the structural repairs, dehumidifying, and sanitation process after all the work is done. It is best to call in professionals who have experience in doing water damage-related repairs, rather than risking more damage by attempting to do the work yourself.
