BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION:

The term Water Damage describes a large number of possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable the attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, mold growth, rusting of steel, de-laminating of materials such as carpet and plywood, and many, many others.
The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as flooding. However fast it occurs, Water Damage is a very major contributor to loss of property.
Water Damage is typically classified into one of the following three categories:
Category 1- Clean Water Category 2- Grey Water Category 3- Black Water
Different removal methods and measures are used depending on the category of water. As a general rule, a professional water restoration company should be called in if there is more than 10 square feet of damage (5’x5’). These companies will use specialized mositure detection tools to look at the walls and any other affected area in order to determine exactly the extent of the damage. Often water lurks behind baseboards, sheetrock, and studs and usually is missed by homeowners. This often results in bacterial and mold issues.
Category 1 water can be removed using the combination of four basic principles.
1. Extraction: Extract as much standing water possible. Carpet padding should be removed if a professional company is not employing a top-down-drying method. If the water has sat more than 72 hours before drying has begun, the carpet should be removed as well.
2. Antimicrobial application: The application of antimicrobial disinfectants is recommended on all category 1, 2, or 3 losses
3. High pressure air flow. The use of commercial drying units that exceed 2000cfm are recommendedto force the moisture into the air. They should be setup every 8-12 linear feet around the perimeter of the room.
4. Dehumidifiers. Commercial dehumidifiers that extract at least 80-200 pints per day should be setupevery 300 square feet. or 2400 cubic foot (if the ceiling is larger than 8’).
An average water loss will take 3-5 days to dry based on the % of water extracted and drying conditions.
Note: Failure to use all four principles listed above will likely result in the formation of mol
Insurance companies recognize the need for professional restoration hd.elp and expect a homeowner to contract such services when in need. Most certified restoration companies will happily bill your insurance company for covered losses.™
Visit one of Our Sites:
Supersaversrestoration.com
az1800flooded.com