Water damage exists on a spectrum. While less serious water damage can be tackled by a dedicated DIY-er, emergency water damage requires a water damage restoration team to make your building clean again. Of course, it’s important to be aware of your skill level. Though these are symptoms of “less serious” water damage, don’t try to tackle anything you’re not prepared for.
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Less serious water damage comes from clean water
Less serious water damage is water that comes from clean sources. Your toilet tank (not the bowl), sinks, or showers are all common causes of clean water leaks. Any water that you could drink counts as less serious water damage. On the other hand, unsafe sources of water damage are automatically emergency water damage even if the leak is small. You don’t need much sewage for it to post a health risk.
Emergency water damage includes mold growth
Mold growth can pose a health risk to anyone breathing in the spores. While mold is all around us without ill effects, the density of spores around a mold growth presents health issues for most people. Children, the elderly, and pets are especially susceptible. Mold is difficult to eradicate, so getting an expert on your side is essential.
Less serious water damage is contained
Water damage that can be contained to a bucket, tub, or only one area of a room is less serious water damage. When everything’s in the same place, it’s easier to clean it up. You don’t have to spend your time chasing drips all over your house. A small area is easier to sanitize thoroughly as well.
Emergency water damage needs to be pumped out
If the water in your home is deeper than you can mop up, you need more than a DIY kit to tackle it. Let the professionals handle pumping out water. Deep water is all but guaranteed to saturate porous surfaces and require deep cleaning that you can’t match at home.
Less serious water damage is caught right away
The sooner you catch a leak, the less damage it can do. Mold doesn’t sprout instantly on contact with water. Deep saturation of drywall, floors, and fabrics doesn’t happen immediately either. If you catch a leak when it starts or very shortly after, you can clean up the water before a lot of long term damage happens. Stay observant, and look out for any sudden changes in water flow or pressure.
Emergency water damage threatens the structure of your home
If the water damage in your home has resulted in a bowing wall or sagging ceiling, call the experts immediately. It’s imperative that you deal with any damage posing a threat to the structure of your home. Common symptoms of serious water damage include buckling/swaying floors, bowed wall paper or paint, and uneven doorways or floors. Before beginning water damage restoration, have your home evaluated for safety.
Serious water damage is beyond the scope of a DIY approach. If your water damage seems too serious, or you’re not an experienced handyman, hang up the tools. A professional water damage restoration team can help you.