Water Damage Archives - Universal Restoration

3 Quick Actions to Minimize Water Damage During a Storm

by Brad Graves | Oct 9, 2024 | Water Damage

When severe weather strikes, flooding can escalate quickly, leaving homeowners with significant damage if they don’t act fast. At Universal Restoration, we know how crucial it is to take immediate steps to minimize damage before help arrives. If you start noticing signs of flooding in your home, here are three quick actions you can take to protect your property until conditions are safe for professional assistance.

1. Turn Off Electricity Immediately

Safety should always be your first priority. If you see water pooling or seeping into your home, immediately shut off the electricity at the main breaker box. This precaution reduces the risk of electrical fires, shock, and damage to your home’s systems and appliances. Never touch water if you suspect it may be in contact with a live electrical source.

**Quick Tip** Familiarize yourself with the location of your breaker box and keep a flashlight nearby to access it easily during emergencies.

2. Move Valuables and Furniture to Higher Ground

Once the electricity is safely turned off, the next step is to protect your belongings. Move electronics, important documents, and furniture to higher areas like upper floors, countertops, or shelves if possible. This action can significantly reduce damage to your valuables, saving you from costly replacements or repairs.

**Quick Tip** Keep a waterproof container for essential documents and small items. It’s an easy way to secure important belongings quickly when time is of the essence.

3. Block Water Entry Points

If water is entering your home through doors, windows, or other low points, take immediate action to slow the flow. Use towels, sandbags, or any available materials to create temporary barriers at these points. While this may not stop the water completely, it can reduce the amount that enters, giving you more time to prepare and protect your space.

**Quick Tip** Keep a storm emergency kit with sandbags, plastic sheets, and duct tape to help seal gaps or cracks quickly. Being prepared ahead of time makes all the difference!

Universal Restoration: Here for You 24/7

At Universal Restoration, we understand how overwhelming flooding can be, and that’s why we’re on call 24/7, ready to respond as soon as conditions are safe. Our professional team will handle the cleanup and restoration process efficiently, minimizing damage and getting your home back to normal as quickly as possible.

By taking these quick actions, you’re not only protecting your home but also buying time until experts can arrive. Remember, preparation is key, and Universal Restoration is here when you need us most. Stay safe, and don’t hesitate to call us for assistance—any time, any day. (888) 449-8936

How to Prevent Water Damage After a Tropical Storm

by Brad Graves | Jul 27, 2024 | Water Damage

Tropical Storms are powerful natural disasters that bring a ton of rainfall with them. The aftermath can leave homeowners grappling with property damages, flooding, and potential health risks due to standing water and mold. It’s important to act swiftly to minimize the damage while you wait on professional damage restoration. Here are some tips on prevent water damage and related issues after a tropical storm:

1. Prioritize Safety:

Turn off the electricity in flooded areas before entering. Even a small amount of water can pose an electrocution risk.
Avoid entering areas severely damaged flooring or walls without a professional assessment.

2. Document Everything:

Before starting the cleanup, take clear, detailed photographs of all water damage. This will be helpful for insurance claims and potential financial assistance.
List damaged items, their value, and any model or serial numbers.

3. Remove Standing Water:

For small amounts of water, use buckets, mops, and towels.
Consider renting or purchasing a wet/dry shop vacuum for larger quantities.
If there’s extensive flooding, hire professionals water damage company who use water pumps to remove water.

4. Dry Out the Property:

Open windows and doors to promote air circulation and faster drying.
Use fans and dehumidifiers to remove moisture. Be cautious when using electrical devices in wet areas.
Remove wet carpets, rugs, and other floor coverings. They can become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria.

5. Guard Against Mold:

Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. Remove wet materials and ensure areas are dried thoroughly.
Consider hiring a professional if mold covers a large area or if you’re unsure about the proper cleanup process.

6. Check Electrical Systems:
– Water can damage electrical outlets, switches, and systems. Have a qualified electrician inspect your home before restoring full power.
– Avoid using electrical appliances that were submerged until they’ve been inspected.

7. Review Insurance Policies:

Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. The sooner you start the claim process, the quicker you can receive financial assistance.
Understand what your policy covers. Some policies might not cover flood damage, requiring homeowners to have separate flood insurance.

Dealing with the aftermath of a tropical storm can be overwhelming. However, by taking strategic and prompt actions, you can minimize water damage. It’s a good idea to contact restoration experts like Universal Restoration. We will act fast to assess your damage and work efficiently to repair water damage and eliminate any dangerous mold in your home. Don’t wait until extensive damage sets in, call us for an assessment today so that we can get you back to normal living fast. (888) 449-8936

Quick Tips for Flooding Cleanup

by Brad Graves | Aug 30, 2023 | Uncategorized, Water Damage

Cleaning up flooding in your home quickly is essential to minimize damage. There is no substitute for a water damage experts to do the job right, but here are some quick tips to help you act fast in the meantime:

1. Assess the Situation: Before you begin the clean-up process, assess the situation to ensure it’s safe to proceed. Check for any electrical hazards, structural damage, or potential dangers in the water.

2. Turn Off the Electricity: Make sure to turn off breakers for outlets, appliances, etc in the flooded area to avoid electrocution.

3. Remove Water: Start removing the water as soon as possible. You can use a wet/dry vacuum, or just old-fashioned buckets to remove the water. The faster you can get the water out, the better.

4. Remove Damaged Items: Remove any damaged items from the area. This includes furniture, rugs, and other belongings. Make a list of damaged items for insurance purposes.

5. Dry the Area: Once the water has been removed, use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to dry the area as quickly as possible. Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24-48 hours, so it’s important to start drying the area, but call a professional to ensure no mold will develop.

6. Disinfect the Area: Floodwater can contain bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants. Make sure to thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces that came in contact with the water.

Call Universal Restoration to:

Prevent Mold Growth Mold can cause health problems and further damage to your home. We remove water quickly and efficiently as well as thoroughly inspect all areas of your flooded area to prevent mold growth on surfaces. Your damaged area will be clean and dry and safe for your family.

Check for Structural Damage: We Inspect your home for any structural damage in the area caused by the flooding. We have the expertise and resources to spot hazard areas that the average person may not see.

Remember, it’s important to act quickly in the event of water entering your home. The faster you can clean up the water and dry the area, the less damage you will incur. Contact the water damage and restoration professionals at Universal Restoration to make sure the job is done right and your family is happy and healthy.