Water Damage Restoration FAQ

Water can cause lasting damage to one’s property by penetrating structural cavities, creating pockets of saturation, as well as causing discoloration, warping, splitting, mold growth, and more. Some of the most common signs of water damage include:

• Dark or wet spots on your ceilings and walls
• Cracking, bubbling, or flaking on your ceilings and walls
• Leaks or puddles throughout your home
• Hearing rushing or running water when all fixtures are turned off
• Damp, musty, or moldy smells throughout your home
• An increase in your monthly water bill
• Roof damage, such as broken or missing shingles
• Outdated piping and plumbing fixtures
• Sudden dampness or humidity in your home
• Visible staining or mold growth in your home

The simple answer is yes. You can clean up and dry out some of the water damage yourself. But there are steps to take beforehand. First, take pictures. Then, mop up any excess water you notice. Step one is critical, as you may need to get your insurance involved depending on the extent of the damage.

Significant damage, such as water flooding a large portion of your home, will need professional services to be repaired. When copious amounts of water gather behind your walls and soak into your floors, there isn’t a way for homeowners to safely deal with it without professional assistance. Additionally, if the water damage in your home is the result of a sewage backup or you notice any mold or mildew growth, get in with a professional team right away.

Most homeowners insurance policies will cover sudden or accidental water damage from a source inside your home. Any exterior water damages, such as those caused by a flood, would need to be covered under flood insurance, which is a separate policy.

While there is no precise estimate of how long it may take your property to become completely dry after enduring water damage, the average house may take around five days to completely dry. However, depending on the severity of your particular situation, it could take up to a few weeks.

Minor water damage to hardwood floors can typically be repaired by removing the excess moisture. If the water damage is severe, the flooring will likely need to be replaced. If you are unsure as to whether your water-damaged wood floors can be saved or not, consult a professional as soon as possible.

After water damage occurs to your property, there is typically a 24 to 48-hour window before mold will start to develop. If your home’s water damage is quickly taken care of by a professional, the likelihood that your property will suffer a mold outbreak is low. If water damage is not taken care of professionally, the risks of detrimental mold growth increase exponentially.

Because mold has a musty smell, a common way to check for it is to smell for it. Mold can often be found in attics, basements, crawlspaces, and other generally damp areas. Additionally, mold will often stain walls, ceilings, and even furniture. While mold is not always visible to the naked eye, it typically can be detected as a discoloration on a surface.

Common symptoms of mold exposure typically include a runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, coughing, sneezing, throat irritation, congestion, and headaches.

Because attics and basements are usually unconditioned spaces, they are at higher for mold growth. Unconditioned spaces are subjected to year-long condensation, which allows for mold to develop.

Water damage is not necessarily an easy thing to prevent. Cautionary measures that you can take, however, include the following:

• Apply sealants to your foundation, walls, windows, and doorways
• Install valves on your pipes to keep them from backing up into your home
• Perform regular maintenance and inspections of your plumbing
• Keep your gutters clean and clear
• Regularly check your roof from the inside and out
• Install a water detection device