Water damage is one of those things that no one looks forward to having to deal with in any space and time and water damage restoration San Antonio Tx style can be a challenge. Yet, water damage restoration San Antonio Tx style is doable. Water damage can spring from a variety of things such as a leaky roof, a surprised broken pipe or even an act of nature such as a flood. It does not matter what the cause; however, it is important to move quickly in getting water damage restored. In fact, it is even more important to remove any wet and contaminated items rather quickly when possible; in fact, The Environmental Protection Agency actually recommends having all items discarded within 48 hours if these items have not been thoroughly and appropriately cleaned and dried. Getting the items out of the home decreases the chance of dangerous and sometimes deadly microorganism from spreading and multiplying. Next get in touch with a person or company to come and inspect the home or office building. This will begin the water damage restoration process. Here are some tips to be a helpful guide along the way.
First step, as previously mentioned, getting an inspector is the start of the process of restoration. Beware that the inspector should be a certified professional who will establish which class and which category the water damage would be. Class and Category help to decide the best way to restore the property. Water damage would be placed into Class 1 if little moisture has been absorbed in only part of a room. This category is the least damaged class. Class 2 involves a whole room that has carpet and walls in which water has been absorbed. These classes continue to escalate in damage as Class 3 includes absorption into the walls with saturation in most of the area. Ceilings may have water also. Some consider Class 3 as the worst class; although, Class 4 incorporates material such as concrete, stone, along with hardwood. These materials in class 4 must have specialty drying. Now to the Categories. Category 1 is considered clean water damage. This is water from toilet tanks and pipes that have been broken. These items supply clean water. However, if the water in this category sits too long it will be classified as Category 2 which includes grey water damage from items that have detergents like washing machines or dishwashers. It could include water with urine from overflowing toilets. Although it seems that this should be included in Category 3. Category 3 has sewage, standing water; along with, river flooding that has growing bacteria and other microbes.
The second step is the actual removal of water. To remove the water, vacuums and pumps are utilized. The extent of the water damage determines what equipment is required.
The third step is to start the drying and dehumidification process which gets any remaining moisture after the removal of all water. To get a full complete dry out, several weeks are needed.
The fourth step is the cleaning. To avoid growth any rapid growth of bacteria and/or mold, all personal belongings should be cleaned and sanitized; along with, carpeting, drapery and clothing getting antimicrobial treatments. Air scrubbers may be utilized to help in the cleaning process. A thorough cleaning is a must.
The biggest step is step 5 which is the actual restoration. Things like insulation and drywall have to be replaced. It could be simple at times depending on the damage; for example, replacing a few panels of drywall vs replacing entire walls in a room.