Mistakes to Avoid When Dealing With Water Damage

Whether you've experienced a flood, a burst pipe, or some other form of water damage, there's no question that is can result in disaster. As soon as possible, you should contact a professional restoration company for both advice and assistance in getting the mess cleaned up. Often, what looks like an unsalvageable wasteland at first glance can be turned into a beautiful restoration. But that's only if you act quickly and hire pros that have a lot of experience. In the meantime, it's only natural that you do all you can to protect your home and belongings. While this is fine, there are some mistakes you should avoid.

Don't leave your belongings to soak
The more time your belongings spend in the moisture, the harder it will be to save them from water damage. This means your books, furniture, rugs, and anything else that might be sitting in a pool. While you may not have the tools or knowledge necessary to begin a full scale restoration process, don't make the mistake of making things worse. That's what will happen if you leave these things to soak. If possible, take these items to a dry area—maybe even outside where they can soak up some sun and air.

Put the vacuum away
For some reason, a lot of people think the vacuum cleaner was designed to suck up water. It wasn't. Yes, there are special shop vacuums that can do this, but not your household cleaner. If you want to extend your water damage to the ruination of your vacuum cleaner and possible electrocution, by all means give it a shot. Otherwise, leave your vacuum cleaner in the closet and leave draining the water to professionals who have the right industrial tools to do it. Another note about electrocution: it is a very real danger in this precarious time. Be extremely cautious about turning on appliances or plugging things in when there is moisture present.

Watch your floors and ceilings
Depending on the extent of the water damage, your house could be a perilous place to be. Inspect your ceilings and floors carefully and make sure there is no sagging. If there is, a drop out could occur at any time. This could result in injury or death. If you aren't sure, have the local authorities do a walkthrough and advise you as to whether or not the conditions are safe. If you have any other doubts, seek out a hotel and don't return to your home until the restoration process has begun.