The Basics of Water Damage Control

by Leo Nov

Water is considered to be the single most long term destructive chemical compound in the indoor environment. Since water is considered as the "universal solvent" it can dissolve or weaken many materials. Water also supports the growth of different microorganisms such as molds on other materials. Because water is fluid or is capable of flowing, it has the capability to carry with it a great number of biological pathogens and chemical allergens which can cause discomfort and sickness to humans.

In an ideal world, houses and other types of buildings would be designed in such a way that flooding would never be a problem to them. However, in the real world, water damage may occur due to a number of reasons such as burst pipes or the overflowing of nearby rivers or streams. Whatever the reason of the water damage, immediate reaction to seepage, spillage, backups and flooding has many benefits. Immediate and efficient reaction to water emergencies can lead to saving valuable household properties from direct water damage as well as their destruction due to mold growth. When water damage is left untreated for a long period of time, then the amount of damage done to the materials will also increase. The quick response to any water emergency can lead to the protection of property and the health of the household inhabitants. Immediate reactions to a water crisis will lessen the amount of water damage and will eventually save time and money.

Professional restorers and water damage experts know the primary objectives of controlling water damage. The first objective of water damage control is to protect the health of the public by removing any harmful substances that enter into the indoor environment with flowing water. Since water carry with it different contaminants, it is important to get rid of the contaminated water that enters the buildings. The use of pumps is an effective way of getting rid of excess water that has collected in low areas of the house. If the water crisis is caused by flooding, it is important to remove mud and other debris that has flowed in with flood waters.

The next objective is to restore the indoor environment to its original dry state. Areas that have been soaked underwater should be dried immediately within a 48 hour period. This will ensure that molds have not yet started to grow and spread to different areas of the house.

The third and final objective is to try to salvage the valuable properties that were affected due to water damage. Different methods can be used in restoring household items that have been affected by water damage. A company that specializes in water damage restoration can be hired to ensure the proper restoration of damage items.

The length of the drying and restoration process will greatly depend on the quality of the water that enters the indoor environment. If the water emergency involves clean water coming from water supply lines, then clean up will be faster and easier. Water damage caused by flood waters or sewage will take a longer and more complicated process.

About the Author

Leo Nov is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS.com, a leading service provider for water damage cleanups. To learn more about {a href=" http://www.restorationsos.com/ " title="Basement Flood"}basement flood and water restoration, visit RestorationSOS.com.