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Water damage in your home or basement can wreak havoc on your property and your wallet. Not only can water damage ruin your most prized possessions, but it can also leave behind mold, mildew and structural damage. Luckily, if you act quickly, you may be able to minimize the damage to your possessions. Depending on how recently the water damage occurred, you may be able to save some furniture or carpeting. To get you started, here are some tips for cleaning your home after water damage:
1. Never ignore sitting water. If you detect flood water in any part of your home, it needs to be addressed immediately. Whether you are dealing with a damp basement or an inch of standing water, this can quickly develop into a mold problem. Not only can mold grow in walls, carpets, and furniture, but it can also cause poor indoor air quality. This can lead to respiratory problems such as asthma or other severe illnesses. The best way to avoid these issues is to prevent the growth of mold by protecting your home from water damage.
2. Assess the damage. In the event that water does find its way into your home, the first thing you will need to do is assess the damage. When possible, try to dry the affected area and clean it with products that are designed to destroy mildew. Use fans in wet areas to help them dry faster and more efficiently. Likewise, a heater can help dry wet areas by removing moisture from the air. Depending on the size of the wet area, you may be able to use a hair dryer instead of a fan or heater.
3. Enlist the help of a professional. When left untreated, water-damaged areas can quickly become a breeding ground for dangerous mold. Even if you think you managed to dry up all the water, it is still a good idea to have the area examined by a professional. Companies like DKI Services are specially trained to handle a wide-range of water damage related issues. This includes everything from mold remediation to hoarder cleaning services. These professionals are highly-trained and can help ensure that the water damage does not further impact your home or air quality.
Dealing with water damage can be stressful, but it does not have to be. Follow these simple tips for cleaning your home after water damage and you will be well on your way to a clean and mold-free house.
I currently have water damage from a leaking pipe from my washer. I am having a hard time getting a plumber but I do have someone that will come to fix the ceiling for me. This is helpful advice in this article.