Water Damage Restoration: Immediate Actions and Initial Steps

Immediate Actions

Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage restoration. The quicker you act, the less damage will be caused to your property.

• If possible, turn off the source of water (e.g., close the main water valve).
• Call a licensed and experienced water damage restoration professional.
• Remove standing water from floors, furniture, and other surfaces.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
• Remove wet items from the affected area and place them in a dry location.
• Elevate furniture to prevent further damage from water absorption.

When to Replace Drywall after Water Damage

Drywall can be salvaged in some cases. However, it is important to determine if the drywall has been severely damaged by excess moisture.

The following factors should be considered when deciding whether to replace drywall:

• Amount of water damage: Drywall that has been exposed to a large amount of water is more likely to need to be replaced.
• Type of drywall: Regular drywall is more susceptible to water damage than moisture-resistant drywall.
• Length of water exposure: Drywall that has been exposed to water for an extended period of time is more likely to need to be replaced.
• Structural integrity: Drywall that has been damaged to the point where it is no longer structurally sound will need to be replaced.

If you are unsure whether or not to replace drywall after water damage, it is always best to consult with a professional water damage restoration company.