8 Important Steps to Limit Water Damage Losses in Birmingham, AL
8 Important Steps to Limit Water Damage Losses in Birmingham, AL
No doubt about it: Water damage can be devastating to your home, your possessions and even your health. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to reduce the problems associated with water damage so you can minimize your losses - and your stress.
The first thing to know: Not all water is the same. In fact, water can be divided into three “types”:
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Clean water is water that hasn’t been used or soiled. This includes water from a supply pipe coming into your home, a leaky pipe under your sink and condensation in your attic, walls or basement.
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Gray water is water that’s somewhat soiled, like the water that drains from your dishwasher or washing machine.
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Black water is water that’s very soiled and full of contaminants, like the water that comes from a burst toilet drain or sewer line. Water that leaks into your home from outside flooding is also typically considered to be black water because it can contain unknown - and dangerous - bacteria and other contaminants that may pose serious health risks.
All three types of water require different techniques to clean up, and they also pose different health hazards for you and your family members. Even a clean water leak can cause mold and mildew, both of which can take a serious toll on your health.
Dealing With Water Damage
Keeping your plumbing in good repair can help prevent some types of water damage, but even the most vigilant homeowner is never fully protected. Heavy rains, roof or gutter damage, or even a failed water heater seal can all result in unexpected water damage that requires quick action and thorough cleanup. Here’s what you should do if a leak or flood does occur:
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If you have a lot of water leakage or flooding, turn off the power. Water and electricity don’t mix, so turning off the power - at least in the affected area - can prevent electrocution, electrical shorts
and fires. -
Turn off your water. If your leak is caused by a damaged pipe or fixture, turn off the water to that fixture or to your entire house to prevent more damage.
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Try to contain the damage if possible. Depending on the type of water leak, you may be able to prevent damage from spreading by soaking up clean water with towels, using buckets to catch water dripping from a damaged roof, or even use a sump pump to remove excess standing water - as long as it’s clean. Never use a pump to get rid of water that could be contaminated with bacteria since pumping it outside could spread that contamination.
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Contact your insurance company. Not all types of water damage are covered. A call to your insurance company will determine if you have coverage for the damage you’re experiencing, and if you are covered, calling your agent will help get the claims process started right away.
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Take pictures and record the damage. Whether or not you have insurance coverage for your losses, taking photos and video is an important part of recordkeeping, just in case the leak or flood is caused by someone else’s negligence. You should also keep records of phone conversations you have with your insurance company or anyone else you consult.
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Remove valuables. Depending on the amount of water damage you have and where it occurs, you may want to remove any antiques, stuffed or soft furniture, or other items that could be damaged by water and surrounding dampness.
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Call your plumber. If your leak is due to a plumbing leak, call your plumber and request an emergency visit to fix the leak or at least contain it while new parts are ordered.
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Contact a restoration company. Regardless of the cause of water damage or the type of water it involves (clean, gray or black), you should contact a skilled restoration contractor to assess the damage. Contractors can evaluate
damage that’s not even visible, like damage inside your walls or ceiling or around your foundation structure, all of which can result in mold growth or insect infestation. Even if you don’t think your leakage is severe, calling a restoration contractor is an important step in making sure your damages are limited and your health isn’t compromised.
Restoration Contractors in Birmingham, AL
Water damage can take a big toll on your property, but as long as you act right away and