While you can repair minor water damage relatively easily, you should hire the services of a water damage restoration specialist to deal with any major flooding. There are many reasons why it is best to get experts in to deal with water damage. The following are some of the primary ones.
Table of Contents
Safety
Water and electricity are a lethal combination. If live wires are immersed in water, the water acts as a conductor, and anybody coming in contact with it is at risk of electrocution. Experts know how to deal with this potential danger. They will also be aware of other potential hazards that are invisible below the water.
Health
Floodwater is a potential health hazard. Quite often, it is contaminated with dangerous substances, including sewage. It is vital to wear protective clothing when clearing up after flooding. It is unlikely that the average individual will have the necessary protective equipment. Most individuals will not know how to handle contaminated water safely. If the flooded area is not thoroughly dried out, there is a risk of mold, fungus and mildew growing. All of these are potentially harmful to health.
It should be noted that removing the water does not necessarily get rid of any contaminants. Harmful bacteria and toxins can seep into cracks, or they can be soaked up by soft furnishings and upholstery. Experts will know where to check for potential health hazards.
Hidden damage
Floodwater can seep into walls and floors. If it is not removed completely, it will continue to cause erosion, with the potential for severe structural damage. You may not know where to look for hidden water damage. Experts know exactly where to look and how to thoroughly dry out these areas.
Equipment
It is highly unlikely that you will have pumps and dehumidifiers on hand. That means you will have to hire these if you intend to do your own restoration. That can delay starting the restoration. Additionally, you will not have the experience to know how to use these items in the best way.
Efficiency
Experts can get the restoration work done much more quickly than you could do it yourself. They will know what items can be salvaged and what should be thrown away. An inexperienced person could waste a lot of money trying to repair items that should be dumped. Likewise, he or she could dump items that could have been restored.