This depends on the extent and severity of the water damage
This includes the type of water, risk of mold, and structural damage.
In some cases, minor water damage, such as a small leak or spill, may be cleaned up by the homeowner without professional help. However, more extensive water damage, such as flooding or significant leaks, may require professional help to properly and safely clean up the damage.
Consider the following factors when deciding whether to handle water damage cleanup on your own or hire a professional
The extent of the damage
If the water damage is limited to a small area and has not spread to other parts of the building, you may be able to clean up the damage on your own. However, if the damage is extensive or has affected multiple rooms, it is usually best to seek professional help.
Your Complete Guide to Professional Water Damage Restoration
Imagine waking up at 3 AM to the sound of rushing water, only to find your basement flooding from a burst pipe. It’s a homeowner’s nightmare, but it’s precisely the kind of emergency our water damage restoration teams handle daily.
With over 20 years of experience, we’ve seen it all – from minor leaks to major floods – and we’re here to help you understand exactly how we can turn your water-damaged property back into the safe, dry home you love.
Understanding Water Damage: More Than Just Wet Floors
Water damage isn’t just about what you can see – it’s what you can’t see that often causes the most problems. For example, that small water stain on your ceiling might indicate a significant problem in your attic that needs immediate attention.
Our team recently helped a homeowner in Ardmore, PA, who thought they had a minor leak. They discovered hidden moisture that, if left untreated, could have led to severe mold issues.
Why Professional Help Matters: A Real-World Scenario
Let’s paint a picture: Last month, we responded to a call from Sarah in Folsom PA. Her dishwasher had leaked overnight, affecting her kitchen and basement below. While it seemed like just a wet floor, our moisture detection equipment revealed that water had seeped into:
- The subfloor beneath her kitchen cabinets
- The drywall behind her baseboards
- The ceiling of her finished basement
Using our professional-grade equipment, we were able to:
- Extract 100+ gallons of water from her home
- Save her hardwood floors through rapid drying techniques
- Prevent any mold growth through immediate intervention
- Help her navigate the insurance claim process
Our Comprehensive Restoration Process: What to Expect
When you call us, here’s exactly what happens.
Emergency Response (Usually Within 60 Minutes)
- We arrive fully equipped with truck-mounted extraction units
- Immediate assessment of the situation
- Quick action to stop any ongoing water sources
2. Professional Water Removal
Think of our industrial-grade extractors as super-powered wet vacs – they can remove hundreds of gallons of water in hours. For perspective, our equipment can extract water 900% more efficiently than a standard shop vacuum.
3. Scientific Drying Process
We don’t just place fans and hope for the best. Our process includes:
- Strategic placement of commercial air movers
- Dehumidifiers that remove up to 30 gallons of moisture per day
- Daily moisture readings with specialized meters
- Temperature and humidity monitoring to ensure optimal drying conditions
4. Thorough Cleaning and Sanitizing
We use hospital-grade sanitizing agents to ensure your space isn’t just dry but truly clean and safe for your family.
Preventing Long-Term Problems
Here’s what can happen without proper water damage restoration:
- Within 24 hours, Drywall begins to swell and break down
- Within 48 hours, Mold can start growing
- Within 1 week, Metal surfaces begin to corrode
- Within 2 weeks: Structural wood may start rotting
Planning and design
If the water is clean, such as from a broken pipe, it may be safe to clean up alone. However, suppose the water is contaminated by sewage backup. In that case, hiring a professional with the proper equipment and training is best to handle the hazardous material safely.
Risk of mold
Water damage can lead to mold growth if not properly and thoroughly cleaned up. A professional restoration company can adequately dry and sanitize the affected area to prevent mold growth.
Can I Identify and Address Water Damage in My Home by Myself?
Identifying signs of water damage in home building can be challenging, but it is possible to do it yourself. Look for discolored or peeling paint, mold or mildew growth, musty odors, swollen or warped wood, and water stains on walls or ceilings. Promptly addressing water damage can prevent costly repairs in the future.
Your Next Steps
Don’t wait until that small water problem becomes a big one. Here’s what you can do right now:
- Save our 24/7 emergency number: 484-882-0971
- Take photos if you notice any water damage
- Contact us for a free assessment – even if you’re just suspicious about a potential problem
Remember: When it comes to water damage, time is money. The sooner you act, the more we can save and the less it will cost to restore your property.
What is commonly not discussed…
Structural damage: If the water damage has caused structural damage to the building, it is important to hire a professional who can assess the damage and make any necessary repairs to ensure its safety and stability.
In general, it is best to err on the side of caution and hire a professional water damage restoration company to ensure the damage is properly and thoroughly cleaned up. They have the proper training, equipment, and experience to handle all types and sizes of water damage.
If you have questions or need immediate help, please call us at 484-882-0971 (24/7) or use the contact us form here
