Water Damage Cleanup: What You Can Do (and When to Call in the Pros)

You wake up to a dripping sound in your kitchen. Upon investigation, you discover a broken pipe spewing water everywhere. Panic sets in. Water Damage Cleanup can feel overwhelming, but don’t despair! Here at Complete Restoration, we’re here to guide you through the water mitigation process, offering expert advice on what you can tackle yourself and when it’s best to call in the professionals.

We understand that water emergencies can strike anywhere in the greater San Antonio area, from bustling Fredericksburg in the north to historic Boerne in the west and everywhere in between. Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage restoration. By following these steps, you can minimize the damage and get your home back on track quickly.

Taking Action: The First Steps In Water Damage Mitigation

Stop the Water Source: The first priority is to stop the flow. If it’s a burst pipe, shut off the main water valve. Locate the shut-off valve, typically found under your kitchen sink, in your laundry room, or near your garage. If you can’t find the valve, call a plumber immediately. For roof leaks, identify the source and find a way to contain the water, like placing a bucket underneath or covering the opening with a tarp. Act quickly to minimize water infiltration. [For more details, check out our post on immediate steps to take for a burst pipe.]
Safety First: Electrical safety is paramount. If water has come into contact with electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power at the breaker box before proceeding. Never touch electrical equipment with wet hands. If you’re unsure about the safety of an area, err on the side of caution and call a qualified electrician.
Contain the Water: Move furniture and belongings away from the affected area to prevent further damage. Use towels, blankets, or sandbags to create barriers and prevent the water from spreading. The goal is to channel the water flow towards a drain or a low-lying area where you can easily remove it.
Remove Standing Water: Time is crucial. The longer the water sits, the more severe the damage becomes. Use a wet/dry vacuum or mop to remove as much water as possible. Here’s a pro tip: for carpeted areas, use a shop vac with a carpet attachment to remove trapped water deep within the fibers. Open windows and doors for ventilation to aid drying.

Beyond the Basics: Protecting Your Property

While the steps above can help mitigate initial damage, here are some additional tips to protect your property:

Document Everything: Take photos and videos of the damage before you start any cleanup efforts. This documentation will be crucial when filing an insurance claim.
Move Valuables: Move important documents, electronics, and cherished belongings to a dry location to prevent water damage.
Salvage What You Can: Elevate salvageable items like furniture or rugs off the wet surface to prevent further water absorption and warping.
Cover Exposed Areas: If the leak source is from the roof, cover exposed areas with a tarp or waterproof material to prevent further water intrusion.

DIY vs. Professional Water Damage Cleanup: When to Call the Pros

While you can take initial steps to address water damage, there are situations where professional help is essential. Here are some signs it’s time to call Complete Restoration for expert water damage cleanup:

Extensive Damage: If the water damage is widespread or affects structural elements like walls, ceilings, or flooring, call a professional restoration company. Extensive water damage requires specialized equipment and expertise to ensure complete drying and prevent mold growth.
Sewage Backup: Sewage backups pose serious health risks. Also known as black water, this kind of water damage emergency necessitates professional cleanup due to the presence of bacteria and contaminants.
Hidden Leaks: Leaks concealed within walls or under floors can be challenging to locate and extract water from. Professionals use specialized equipment like moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to pinpoint hidden leaks and ensure complete water removal.
Mold Growth: Mold thrives in damp environments. If you suspect mold, don’t attempt to remove it yourself. Mold spores can be harmful to your health.
Lingering Odors: Persistent odors after water damage cleanup often indicate incomplete drying or the presence of mold. Professional damage restoration companies utilize advanced drying techniques and deodorization processes to completely eliminate odors.

Complete Restoration: Your Trusted Partner in Emergency Water Damage Cleanup

At Complete Restoration, we understand the stress and urgency associated with water damage. We serve the greater San Antonio area with a team of certified water damage restoration professionals equipped with the latest technology and expertise. We offer 24/7 emergency services, ensuring a quick response to minimize further damage.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Rapid Response: We understand that time is critical and will arrive on-site promptly to start the damage restoration process.
Expert Assessment: Our certified technicians will thoroughly assess the damage to determine the most effective course of action. This includes a comprehensive inspection for hidden leaks and potential mold, protecting you from future problems.
Advanced Equipment: We utilize state-of-the-art equipment for water extraction, drying, and dehumidification to ensure complete moisture removal. This can include industrial-grade dehumidifiers, powerful extraction pumps, and advanced drying equipment to ensure your home is dried thoroughly and quickly, preventing secondary damage.
Mold Remediation: If mold is present, our certified specialists will safely and effectively remove it, ensuring the health and safety of your family. We follow strict protocols outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure complete mold removal and prevent its return.
Insurance Assistance: We work directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process, taking the burden off your shoulders. Our team understands complex insurance policies and can help you navigate it all efficiently.
Customer Service: Our commitment is to your complete satisfaction. We strive to keep you informed throughout the entire cleanup process. Our transparent communication ensures you’re involved in every step of the damage restoration journey.

Don’t Let Water Damage Ruin Your Day

Water damage can be disruptive and stressful, but with the right knowledge and resources, you can overcome it. By taking immediate action to stop the source, contain the water, and remove standing water, you can minimize the damage. However, for extensive water damage, hidden leaks, sewage backups, mold growth, or lingering odors, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals.

At Complete Restoration, we’re here to help you navigate water damage emergencies throughout the greater San Antonio area, from Fredericksburg to Boerne and everywhere in between. Our team of certified professionals is equipped with the latest technology and expertise to handle any water damage situation effectively.

Don’t let water damage ruin your day. Call Complete Restoration today! We’re available 24/7 at 726-215-5245 to answer your questions and get your water damage cleanup process started immediately. Remember, the faster you act, the less damage you’ll face.

We look forward to restoring your peace of mind!