Water damage can wreak havoc on your home, your furnishings, and your finances. As a homeowner, you hope it never happens. But it’s important to prepare yourself for this potential problem. Here is 8 mistakes to avoid with water damage restoration as a new homeowner.
Water damage restoration isn’t an easy task. And many homeowners rush to handle the problem by themselves or fail to address the issue quickly.
These mishaps can cause further damage to your home and lead to more money out of your pocket down the line. Make sure you’re prepared for the possibility of water damage to your home.
Here are 8 common mistakes to avoid with water damage when makes its way into your home.
1. Waiting Too Long
Flooding or water damage in your home is stressful. If you’ve never experienced it before, you may not realize it’s important to act fast.
If you wait, the situation can go from bad to worse in a short period of time. Water seeps into everything, including your walls, furniture, appliances, vents, and electrical sockets.
Waiting can lead to mold and mildew growth and further structural damage. As soon as you experience unwanted water entering your home, you should act right away.
Calling in a professional water removal service is the fastest and safest way to address the problem.
2. Trying to DIY
Many people think they can handle water damage on their own. Their first thought is to save money and tackle the problem without professional help.
Without understanding the full scope of the problem, you can actually cause more damage to your home. It takes professional products, equipment, and technology to get the job done right.
Once you’ve attempted to do the job yourself, you may discover hidden damage that will cost you more money later. It’s best to have an expert inspect the damage and restore your home.
Although it’s always tempting to save a little money, you shouldn’t underestimate the potential problems water can cause. Don’t try to DIY.
Hire a professional company to address water damage right away.
3. Not Understanding the Extent of the Damage
What may appear to be minimal water damage to you may be a more extensive problem beyond what you can see. You don’t want to take the risk of leaving behind dangerous mold, bacteria, or other toxins.
A professional restoration expert can pinpoint the cause and the extent of water damage. They understand EPA requirements and know how to deep clean and deodorize your home.
Don’t take a chance and underestimate the scope of the problem. You don’t want to expose yourself or your family to potential health hazards.
4. Failure to Take Safety Precautions
When you deal with the aftermath of water damage, it’s critical to take safety precautions. This includes using cleaning products and machines correctly and wearing safety gear such as coveralls, boots, gloves, and masks.
Trying to turn on the lights to inspect the problem or touching electrical circuits can be dangerous or deadly. Exposure to hazardous waste from damaged pipes or septic systems can impact your health.
Unless you are an expert knowledge about the process, you should leave the restoration tasks to the water damage professionals.
5. Using the Wrong Equipment
Cleaning up after a flood or other water damage requires more than towels, mops, and brooms. You need specialized equipment, industrial fans, and cleaning products made for the job.
Without the proper equipment, there may be sanitation issues from mold, mildew, and other toxins left behind. Many people try to take care of water damage on their own. Unfortunately, they often end up having to hire a professional to finish the job.
Don’t waste hours of time and effort trying to tackle the problem with the wrong tools. Hire a professional service to do the job right the first time.
6. Hiring Unqualified Workers
Before you rush to hire someone for the job, be sure to ask for recommendations and check the company out online. Don’t hesitate to ask them about their experience, insurance, licensing, and warranty policy.
You want to hire an experienced company that uses the latest water removal techniques and can handle any problems that may arise. Hiring a new company isn’t always a bad idea, but make sure they have some experience and good customer reviews.
There are elements to the job of water removal that only a professional should attempt. Acting quickly and choosing a qualified professional will reduce your stress level and ensure a job well done.
7. Choosing a Service Based on Price Alone
Although it’s tempting to choose a water removal service that offers the lowest price, it’s a big mistake. You must consider the company’s experience, track record, and qualifications as well.
A reputable company will offer excellent service at a fair price. They are not out to take advantage of you but expect to be paid for their expertise.
Quality water damage restoration companies employ and train skilled workers to do the job well. Hiring unqualified workers could make the problem worse and cost you even more money in the future.
8. Picking a Company Without Emergency Services
One mistake many homeowners make is choosing a company and having to wait a few days for them to begin the water removal process. Waiting can worsen the problem and magnify the damage to your home.
Be sure to choose a company that has emergency services. This ensures you will receive immediate help to resolve the problem.
Most experienced restoration companies offer emergency water removal services. Your best defense against the destructive power of water is to begin the cleanup process as soon as possible.
Hire the Best Water Damage Restoration Company
Don’t make any of these common mistakes if you’re facing water damage in your home. Be sure to hire the right water damage restoration company for the job.
If you’re in need of water restoration services in the Portland metro area, we’re here to help. Contact us today to get started.
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