How to Handle Water Damage in Gainesville FL

From malfunctioning dishwashers to broken pipes, water damage varies in source and intensity. Wherever it starts, it can cause serious harm to the structure and stability indoors. Porous surfaces like floors and walls are especially vulnerable to fungal invasion after taking on water. Paul Davis specialists of Gainesville are the experts to call when your home or business needs water damage restoration.

Before the Pros Arrive

It can be hard not to try and remedy the leak yourself. That said, it’s best to leave the job up to the pros. However, there are some things you can do before the restoration professionals arrive. You need to work quickly to save the possessions in your home from water damage.

First, make sure your home is safe to work in. Power down all electronics and breakers around your home to avoid electrocution. This may sound overly cautious, but dampened appliances can be hazardous when exposed to water.

First Things First

Water can get into everything. To keep water damage from destroying small items, move them before large furniture. Paper and inked things like magazines need a level, dry surface. This includes small tabletop things, such as lamps and knickknacks. The big work begins when you’ve removed books and other small items.

To begin the drying process, use air conditioning and fans in your home to circulate air through the area. Wipe and mop damp areas such as countertops to make sure minor pools of standing water have been cleaned. Though you may want to try, do not use a regular home vacuum to clean water. This can damage the appliance and harm you if incorrectly handled. When you’re ready to move furniture, stack furnishings like heavy chairs and sofas onto wooden and cement blocks to elevate them off the wet areas.

Water adds weight to surfaces, carpets, and fabrics. This extra weight makes leather goods, fur and rugs difficult to move. So if you need to remove a rug, lift carefully. Hang draperies, clothing and other fabrics away from the affected area to dry thoroughly. Depending on the amount of water damage in your home, you may not be able to keep every piece of fabric you own.

In serious flooding situations, the extra water weight can affect the foundation of your home. Ceilings and floors can bend when they take on water weight, it’s best to stay clear of these areas.

Why Call Paul?

Water damage is no match for Paul Davis. They can treat your home more effectively with a little prep work from you. We know how to return your home back to normal efficiently and quickly. Our technicians are experienced and have worked with varying degrees of water damage in different kinds of residential and business properties. Additionally, Paul Davis works with your insurance company to settle your claims promptly, so you can return to normal.