Water Damage

 
Water Damage Do's and Don'ts

{ Do }

• Identify/eliminate water source. Call plumber if needed.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Turn on Air Conditioner for maximum drying in summer. In winter heat area between 72Ëš-76Ëš and operate dehumidifier and fans until dry.
• Remove or prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying (check for possible bleeding).
• Wipe up excess water from wood furniture.
• Raise furniture off of wet carpeting by putting something under legs such as: heavy-duty plastic, rubber lids, china saucers, foam blocks, etc.
• Remove all valuables, art objects, paintings, jewelry, etc. and put in a safe, dry location.
• Open drawers and cabinet/closet doors and luggage for complete drying. (However, do not force.)
• Remove Orientals or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpeting.
• Blot wet carpeting with clean white towels and lift draperies off carpet, loop through a plastic covered coat hanger, and place on the drapery rod.
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry.
• Remove wet fabrics and dry them as soon as possible.
• Punch small holes (ice pick size) in sagging ceilings to relieve trapped water.
• Contact a professional certified in Water Restoration.

{ Don't }

• Attempt to use any electrical appliances that may have been close to fire, heat or water or while standing on wet floors, carpets or particularly wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet as wiring may be damaged. Keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Go into rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on.
• Lift tacked down carpet without professional help. Lifting the carpet incorrectly could promote damage and de-lamination.
• Leave colored items on wet floors (newspapers, magazines, etc.) as color may bleed.
• Wait to call for professional help. Damage from water and bacteria growth can begin within hours.