You may have been lucky enough not to need flood cleanup in Los Angeles, but if you have experienced water damage, you know that time is of the essence. If you wait too long after your home floods from a storm, a burst pipe, water heater leak, or even a fire extinguished by hose, you may be faced with costly repairs and rapid growth of toxic black mold. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to understand how water damage restoration works before they find themselves in need. Here’s what you need to know about the process.

Kinds of Damage

Water damage is categorized by both class and category. The class can range from minor to severe damage, while the category refers to the type of water itself, from clean to contaminated.

Inspection

Before water damage restoration in Orange County can begin, your home should be thoroughly inspected to access the level of damage. A professional can look past the ceiling, walls, and floor to see how pervasive the damage is.

Water Removal

The next step is to remove as much water as possible. Pumps and vacuums are the main tools used to get rid of any standing water quickly. Keep in mind that the longer the water sits, the more damage it can cause and the more likely it is for mold to bloom.

Drying Out

This stage in the process can take days or weeks, depending on the extent of the flood. Large fans and dehumidifiers may be positioned throughout your home to dry out the air and surfaces.

Cleaning

Every surface from top to bottom should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, especially if the flood involved gray or black water.

Restoration

This last step includes replacing any structural damage, from drywall and insulation replacement to complete teardown and rebuilding of rooms.

Water damage restoration can be a stressful process, but with a professional service, you can relax knowing that your home will be well cared for. It’s a good idea to have a company in mind in case you ever need their help to protect and restore your home.