While plumbing emergencies and other large-scale problems are hard to miss, a slow leak can often escape detection long enough to cause extensive damage. From finding the source of the problem to minimizing the risk of a mold or mildew infestation, there are several steps you need to take in order to restore a home that has suffered from water damage. Taking prompt and effective action can go a long way toward reducing cleanup costs.
Address the Leak
Keeping the problem from growing any worse is always priority number one. Shutting off the water supply to your home until the source if the leak can be discovered and addressed can be of critical importance. A sluggish or ineffective response to a leak can allow the problem to grow substantially worse.
Assess the Damage
Once you have replaced the leaky pipe, faulty fixture, or other equipment that may have the original cause of the problem, it’s time to assess the true extent of the damage. Even a seemingly minor leak can cause considerable damage to drywall, flooring materials, and even furniture. Outlining the full scope of the problem will allow you to take more effective action during cleanup.
Clean up and Repair
Simply replacing the plumbing pipes or fixtures that were the source of the problem is often only the beginning. Construction materials that have been exposed to moisture may quickly begin to rot and may need to be repaired or even replaced. Professional water damage restoration services and assistance throughout the cleanup process can help to ensure that your efforts are able to be as effective and successful as possible.
Mold and Mildew
Molds and mildew can cause problems ranging from foul odors to situations where the health and safety of your household may be placed at risk. Ineffective cleanup or inadequate restoration efforts can drastically increase the risk of an infestation. Renting pumps, fans, and other equipment or contacting a water cleanup professional may all be essential steps in the process.
Over time, slow leaks can cause considerable damage. Early detection, prompt repair, and effective water removal and cleanup efforts can all go a long way toward minimizing the scope of water damage and keeping repair costs less likely to get out of hand. Assuming that a slow leak is nothing more than a minor problem can be a major misstep, one that could end up costing you much more than you might expect.
