When it comes to water damage in your home, the decision of whether to tackle it yourself or call in professional help can be a tricky one. While minor clean water leaks may be manageable for a handy homeowner, more extensive or contaminated water damage often requires the expertise and specialized equipment of a professional water damage restoration company.
Assessing the Damage
The first step in determining if you can handle the water damage yourself is to assess the extent and category of the damage. Water damage is typically classified into three categories:
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– Category 1: Clean water from a sanitary source like a broken pipe or leaky faucet
– Category 2: Gray water that may contain some contaminants, such as from a washing machine or dishwasher overflow
– Category 3: Black water that is highly contaminated, such as from a sewage backup or flooding from a natural disaster
If the water damage is limited to a small, contained area and is Category 1 clean water, you may be able to handle the cleanup yourself with the proper safety precautions. However, if the damage is more extensive or involves Category 2 or 3 water, it’s best to call in a professional water damage restoration company.
DIY Water Damage Cleanup
If you decide to tackle the water damage yourself, it’s crucial to act quickly and thoroughly. The first step is to stop the source of the water and remove any standing water. You’ll then need to thoroughly dry the affected area, which may require the use of fans, dehumidifiers, and other specialized equipment.
It’s also important to take proper safety precautions, such as wearing gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself from potential contaminants. Proper disposal of any contaminated materials is also essential.
However, even if the water damage appears to be clean, it’s important to be aware that hidden mold or structural damage may be present. If the drying process takes longer than a few days or you notice any signs of mold or deterioration, it’s best to call in a professional.
When to Call a Professional
For more extensive or contaminated water damage, it’s generally best to call in a professional water damage restoration company. These companies have the specialized equipment, training, and expertise to properly assess the damage, extract the water, dry the affected area, and address any mold or structural issues.
Professional water damage cleanup typically costs $4.50 per square foot or more, depending on the extent of the damage and the category of water involved. While this may be more expensive than a DIY approach, it’s often the safest and most effective way to ensure the damage is properly addressed and prevent further issues down the line.