Let's face it: there are times when there is nothing we can do to prevent flooding or other types of excess water in our homes. Storms happen; plumbing breaks; roofs leak. Water damage is just part of being a homeowner for an extended amount of time.
The good news is that there are things you can do, before and after a water event, to mitigate the resulting damage. So while there may be nothing you can do to prevent the event from happening, you can reduce your losses. The more of these tips you are able to employ, the less you are likely to lose due to water damage in Salt Lake City or elsewhere.
Before a Water Event
• Regular Inspections - Homeowners should get in the habit of regularly inspecting the properties to identify potential problems. Inspections should include things like plumbing, water tanks, foundation walls, and bathroom and kitchen fixtures. Also, inspect attic spaces for signs of roof leakage.
• Storage Procedures - If you normally store some of your processes in a basement or a below ground level storage area, you need to assume they are at risk. Do not use cardboard boxes; use plastic totes with watertight seals. Furthermore, store your possessions on pallets to keep them off the floor.
• Remodeling - When remodeling a basement to create an office or rec room, hang your drywall at least 6 inches off the floor. To cover the gap you can use vinyl baseboard material that's easily removed and replaced. This procedure reduces the likelihood of mold growing in your walls after a minor flooding event.
After a Water Event
• Electrical Power - If you have more than an inch or so of standing water, and you can get to your panel box safely, it is a good idea to shut off electrical service to your home. If water is allowed to penetrate electrical systems, it could result in thousands of dollars’ worth of damage.
• Standing Water - As soon as possible after a water event, you should remove standing water. The longer that water is allowed to remain in place the more potential damage is possible. A remediation company like SERVPRO is your best bet for removing standing water. If that's not possible, you can use pool pumps, sump pumps, and even shop vacs to remove standing water.
• Prioritize Possessions - If you are of a mind to save important possessions, you need to prioritize them. For example, boxes of legal documents will be more important than the couch. Get those important possessions out of the house and begin the drying process as soon as possible.
• Consider Remediation Options - After a water event, it is wise to quickly consider your remediation options and then choose a course of action. The longer you delay the more damage you might be looking at.
Hire Professional Remediation
As a remediation specialist, we believe hiring professional remediation is your best course of action if your home sustains water damage in Salt Lake City. Companies like ours invest tremendous amounts of money, time, and energy in the latest methodologies and state-of-the-art equipment. We also take the time to make sure all of our technicians are extremely knowledgeable and fully trained.
When you work with a remediation company, you can rest assured all of the necessary steps will be taken to reduce your losses and help you get your life back. At SERVPRO, we pride ourselves in doing just that. If your home or business has sustained water damage in Salt Lake City, feel free to call us any time, night or day.