Water damage in a home can have many causes. A leaky pipe, flooding from a storm, or the water used to extinguish a small fire can all cause extensive damage. A fast response and thorough cleanup can preserve belongings and reduce the cost of repairs to the home. Residential water damage happens daily around the US, so everyone should know how to manage this situation. 

Address Problems Immediately

Water damage does not only occur from events like flash floods or a burst pipe pouring gallons of water into the basement. In many instances, the damage is a small leak. The water could enter the home from an improperly sealed window, a few missing shingles, or a leaky appliance. These issues can seem minor but can become expensive problems if not addressed.

Water absorbs into walls and floors, and even a minimal amount can travel a long distance through a home. Homeowners need to know the signs of a leak and learn how to determine where it began. The damage left behind can mean mold growth and dry rot in any surrounding wood. Hiring water damage recovery services for these minor incidents can stop them from becoming unexpectedly expensive disasters.

Protect Family First

Flooding in a home is an immediate safety hazard. Get everyone out of the house quickly. Do not allow anyone to reenter until an expert can guarantee no one is at risk from electrical hazards or potential gas leaks.

If reentering the house to salvage property, always wear boots, gloves, and masks to protect against any chemicals, sewage, or other contaminants in the floodwater. Remember that water can hide tripping hazards, sharp debris, and more. Only allow those who need to be in the house to come back inside. Keep pets and children away to avoid accidents.

Call Restoration Experts

Call water damage restoration professionals for the easiest and most reliable property protection method. They typically offer 24-hour services and will arrive quickly. Speed matters because mold develops quickly and can make items unsalvageable. Locate property insurance information and take photographs of the damage before the arrival of the restoration team.

Water damage can make homes unsafe structurally due to mold growth. A restoration team can save families more personal belongings and enable people to return to a clean and dry home much sooner than expected. A flood or any incident causing water damage can happen to anyone without warning. Preparing for these events can reduce losses.

Contact a local water damage restoration service to learn more.