No matter the cause, water damage can be any property owner’s nightmare. It often leads to many other issues, such as affected structural integrity, lost materials, mold growth, and more. Luckily, in such an unfortunate situation, you can contact a water mitigation company to get expert help and find an effective solution.
Water mitigation specialists don’t handle repairs but rather focus on preventing damage from spreading to other areas and making properties safe for subsequent projects, including restoration.
Did you call experts? Are you looking for relevant information to prepare for this process? This guide explains what you should expect from a professional company during the water mitigation phase. Read on!
What Is Water Mitigation?
In essence, water mitigation refers to stopping the water flow to reduce its impact on the property. After that, experts assess the extent of the damage to determine the next steps to take.
More often than not, this process involves the following:
- Checking if the property’s structure is still stable
- Identifying the cause of the issue
- Stopping the water flow
- Removing water-damaged items
- Assessing the extent and type of water damage (clear, gray, or black water)
- Disinfecting remaining items and materials
- Extracting water from the property
- Drying out the affected areas
- Implementing measures to prevent further water damage
Differences Between Water Mitigation and Water Damage Restoration
Two solutions are available to address water damage: mitigation and restoration. Although they may sound similar and usually work together, both processes focus on specific things and happen at different times.
As mentioned, water mitigation prepares the property for future work and ensures it’s safe. Restoration, on the other hand, focuses on repairing it. The former often precedes the latter.
These are the main differences between both phases:
| Water Mitigation | Water Damage Restoration |
| Addresses the issue promptly to prevent further damage and protect both the property and its occupants | Focuses on repairing the existing damage caused by the unwanted water to restore the property to its original condition |
| Involves stopping the water source to minimize the damage, extracting excess water, reducing the initial harm, and preventing future issues | Involves repairing and rebuilding affected areas, replacing damaged items, and ensuring the property’s functionality |
| Is performed first to prepare the property for repairs or make sure it’s safe and shouldn’t be skipped | Follows water mitigation and is performed only if needed |
The Water Mitigation Process
Did you contact a water mitigation company? Below is what you can expect professionals to do after the first call.
What Are the First Steps a Water Mitigation Company Would Take?
When the experts arrive at your property, the first thing they’ll do is assess how bad things are and identify the water source. This is where the mitigation process actually starts.
Once the cause behind the issue is identified, professionals will try to stop the water flow to prevent further damage.
Will the Water Be Drained Away? What Will Professionals Do After Containing the Damage?
After the damage is contained, experts will use special equipment to extract the standing water and remaining debris. With hospital-grade chemicals, they’ll also clean the area to destroy bacteria and viruses.
Moreover, specialists will install industrial-strength fans to dry the property and remove every last drop of water.
Will There Be Additional Steps During This Process?
After assessing the extent of damage, professionals will determine if additional steps are required. Sometimes, they need to perform the following:
- Flood cuts: These drywall cuts may be necessary in certain rooms to ensure interior walls haven’t absorbed water and check if the wiring and insulation are in good condition.
- Affected items removal: Water can ruin certain materials, including upholstery and fabric. If porous items (clothing, furniture, documents, children’s toys, or kitchen utensils) are damaged, they’ll have to be removed from the property.
- Odors removal: Sometimes, experts need to implement techniques to remove unpleasant odors caused by water buildup and moisture, even after areas are dried.
Final Thoughts: Let Experts Handle the Water Mitigation Process
Whether water damage results from a natural disaster, a leaking roof, or just a burst pipe, it can wreak havoc on homes or buildings. However, you can protect your property’s structural integrity and appearance by contacting a water mitigation company.
If you’re looking for knowledgeable, responsible, and reliable contractors, Fine Restoration is your best option. Our experienced team will help you mitigate water damage to ensure your property is safe after a flood, storm, or any other unfortunate event. Contact us today and request a free estimate!
