Floods cause billions of dollars in damage each year across the United States. This figure only covers natural flooding. Numerous homes are damaged to varying extents each year by internal flooding, including burst pipes, ruptured water heaters and malfunctioning dishwashers. When these types of situations take place, springing into action as quickly as possible is the key to minimizing loss. Though many people call their insurance providers first, contacting a company offering flood damage restoration in Escondido should certainly follow.
How Flood Cleanup Works
The top priority during flood cleanup is removing all standing water. In situations where widespread flooding has occurred, restoration experts must wait until the floodwaters subside. Then, they use high-powered pumps and other specialized equipment to remove any standing water left behind in a home or business. Then, more in-depth measures take place.
Dehumidification – After standing water is removed, lingering moisture has to be removed from the equation. For this phase of the process, dehumidifiers are used to thoroughly dry carpets, walls, and other structural elements. Thermal imagers, moisture gauges, and other tools are used to ensure all moisture has been eliminated before moving forward.
Cleaning – Once all signs of moisture are gone, further cleanup measures can begin. Restoration specialists will shampoo carpets, remove furniture for upholstery and wood cleaning, scrub and sanitize walls and flooring, and remove odors and stains. Heating and air conditioning ducts and systems are cleaned as well.
Removal of Damaged Materials – In some cases, materials are damaged too extensively to be restored. These must be removed and replaced. Flooring, drywall, cabinetry, appliances, and clothing commonly fall into this category.
Mold Remediation – Mold can begin to grow within a few hours of flooding under the right conditions. If left to its own devices, mold can spread and cause a number of illnesses. Should signs of mold growth be present, extra flood damage restoration in Escondido is performed to remove it.
Repairs – When cleanup is finished and all damaged materials and items have been removed, repairs will be the next step. This is usually the longest phase of the process, sometimes requiring a few weeks for completion.
Floods vary in severity, and so does the damage they leave behind. Length of the cleanup and restoration process depends on the extent of the damage, the type of flood, and a number of other factors. Browse our website to find further details.