The Water Damage Mitigation Process
If you are facing water damage, the first thing to do is to contact your insurance company. They will cover the costs of mitigation and restoration. Many people will contact a mitigation company directly, but it is also common to contact their insurance company to make the process easier. The insurance company will send an adjuster to the property to assess the damage and approve or deny mitigation work.
Assessment
If you have experienced water damage to a building, a professional assessment of the damages and the associated costs can be a good first step. The damage assessment process begins by identifying the sources of the water and determining the classification of water damage. This classification includes the type of materials affected by water, their evaporation rate, and their porousness. Depending on the classification, different steps may be necessary to mitigate the damages and make the building safe for its occupants.
The next step is determining the cause of the water damage. The source of water should be determined so that the best mitigation method can be chosen. Some types of water damage are more serious than others.
Containment
Containment is one of the most important steps in the water damage mitigation process. It limits mold and other contaminants from spreading around a building. This can help prevent exposure to technicians and building occupants. It is also crucial for quick drying of contaminated items. Once contained, water damage mitigation teams can begin their work.
Containment can be accomplished in two main ways: limited containment or full containment. The amount of containment you need depends on the size of the contaminated area. If you use too much containment, it can affect adjacent spaces, causing cross contamination. If you’re unsure of the level of containment, you should consult a water damage mitigation company. These companies are fully investigated and have the necessary insurance and licenses to perform the work. They should also be certified by the IICRC.
Remediation
The first step in the remediation process for water damage mitigation is to stabilize the environment. This includes determining what materials have been affected by water, including drywall, insulation, carpet padding, and concrete slab surfaces. This assessment will help determine the scope of work and cost. Then, it’s time to clean the affected areas.
After a water leak, you must shut off your main water supply and call a water damage restoration service provider. The service provider will use dehumidifiers, disinfectants, and ozone generators to clean the area and minimize potential health risks. It’s also important to prevent future water damage by enhancing ventilation, selecting paints and drywall that are resistant to water and mold, and choosing floors that can withstand moisture.
Drying
Drying water-damaged structures is a complicated process that requires the use of extensive equipment and knowledge. The process is also based on the application of scientific principles. For example, psychrometry is used to determine the moisture content of materials and monitor drying progress. It also helps assess the extent of water intrusion, ensuring that the drying process will minimize secondary water damage.
The first step in the drying process is to remove excess water. This should only be necessary in severe flooding situations. It is important to document the removal of all water so you can use the information as evidence for insurance purposes. In addition, it is important to remove any materials that are affected by water. For example, the attic can retain water and make insulation lose its effectiveness. Furthermore, it can cause cracks in the ceiling.
Recovery
Even though the majority of modern electronics are water-resistant, they are not completely impervious to water damage. If your phone or tablet has been exposed to water, you may wonder how to recover the data. The first step is to disconnect the power supply. However, this method is risky, as it might override data on the device.
A clear plan is crucial in emergency situations. Without one, you may delay action, leading to a larger disaster. A well-thought-out plan will help you recover your property quickly and painlessly.
