"What To Do When Water Damage Occurs"

Broken pipes, leaky appliances and heavy rainstorms can teach an unexpected lesson on the destructive power of water.  One unforeseeable release of water and suddenly your home and furnishings are in serious peril.  A little knowledge about what to do, combined with quick action, can help salvage your home and personal items.

In most cases, only a professional can repair water damaged flooring and furnishings.  Do not attempt to treat these items yourself - that may only contribute to the problem and cause further damage.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) recommends the following actions to minimize damage while waiting for help to arrive:

Foremost, stop the water leak and attend to obvious safety hazards, like electrical shock and personal injury from slips and falls.

Increase airflow with open windows, fans, and heating and air conditioning systems.

Open doors, drawers, cupboards, and closets to maintain optimal air circulation and promote drying.

Move furnishings out of wet areas or protect furniture legs from absorption and damage with triple-folded aluminum foil.

Hang up draperies and pin up upholstery skirts to prevent water rings; allow leather items to dry at room temperature.

Wash wet clothes, sheets and linens immediately and hang cleanable fabrics up to dry.

Do not store damp items in plastic bags where mold can grow.

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