Leaky plumbing can lead to serious damage to wooden flooring and other structural materials. Review the guidelines below to familiarize yourself with some effective ways to target materials that have been exposed to moisture.
Dispose Of Porous Materials
Many porous materials that become saturated may need to be disposed of. Insulation, fabric floor coverings, and other porous materials are breeding grounds for bacteria and mold. If any lightweight porous materials were exposed to moisture for a long duration, remove them from your home and dispose of them.
Dry And Clean Salvageable Materials
Focus your attention on the structural materials that were exposed to moisture. Inspect wooden flooring, sheetrock, tiles, and other rigid materials. Use a dehumidifier to thoroughly dry the materials that are wet. Open windows within your home. This will improve the airflow, speeding up the drying process.
If the structural materials aren't stained badly, a thorough cleaning may be all that is needed to restore the materials. Use a disinfectant to wipe off all surfaces that were previously exposed to moisture.
Consult With A Contractor
Moisture that seeped between flooring panels and other structural materials will require more attention. Consult with a water damage restoration contractor. They can assess the materials, plus provide the guidance needed to safely and efficiently address any damage.
First, the contractor may remove one or more structural materials. This will allow them to access the sub-materials that rest under or behind the top layer. For instance, if a contractor is going to inspect a wooden floor, they may remove a small portion of the flooring planks.
Then, they will determine if the sublayer is intact. If the sublayer has incurred damage, the contractor will take note of it.
Seek Repairs
The contractor will advise you on the types of products and tools that will be needed to salvage structural materials. Hardwood flooring may require the use of a sanitizing agent, a sanding machine, stain, and varnish.
Sheetrock may require a cleaning agent, putty, and sanding equipment. Each material that has been compromised may need to undergo a targeted cleaning and restoration process.
Have Replacements Installed
Materials that have been heavily damaged may need to be replaced. Water damage can warp wooden boards and other fibrous materials. Your contractor will recommend which materials to replace.
If you hire the contractor to perform the replacement steps, they will acquire the materials from a building supplier. Then, they will remove the damaged materials and install the new materials. For more information on water damage restoration, contact a professional near you.
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