Hey DIYer! You Should Handle your own water loss…the need for speed!
Following water damage, the first question many homeowners ask is, "Can we handle this ourselves?" Unfortunately, although DIY fixes may be an attractive option in the short term, the consequences of an inadequate structural dryout WILL cost significantly more in the long run. AND you’ll be guessing as to whether or not mold will ever become an issue.
Water damage can cause several problems, including the corrosion or failure of electrical and plumbing systems. In addition, it can compromise the structural integrity of ceilings and walls, and mold growth is common in spaces without proper ventilation or failure to establish a “dry standard” – HOW WILL YOU KNOW IT IS DRY – FEEL IT RIGHT – simply incorrect as our bodies do not have this capability. This article offers a brief overview of structural drying and explains why it's a job you should leave to the pros.
Structural Drying and the Pear Principle
When you take a DIY approach to assessing and managing the impact of water damage, you risk facing more serious (and costly) problems in the future OR a denied claim with your insurance. Structural drying is a complex process involving four principles: extraction, evaporation, dehumidification, and temperature control. To demonstrate the principles of structural drying, think of a pear.
If you take a bite out of the fruit and simply set it down on the counter, it won't last long before showing signs of rotting, browning, and general decomposition. In just a couple of days (if not sooner), it will look, feel, and taste nothing like when you first started eating it – it becomes downright gross!
On the other hand, if you take a pear and puree it, then place it in a dehumidifier, it will become a delicious snack that's edible for many days and is free of any signs of rot or decay.
The question now is: how does this relate to water damage?
The Pear Principle shows that the steps you take following water damage make all the difference in whether or not elements of your home will suffer long-term damage (mold, secondary damage or outright deterioration) or remain in a good state (the edible, dehydrated pear).
If you don't take proactive measures to help your home recover from water damage, it's only a matter of time before the moisture eats away at critical elements of your property. We have the equipment and expertise necessary to mitigate water damage by using advanced techniques that help remove moisture – not just "dry things out" in a very timely manner and recall – speed is the need!
The bottom line is that effectively fixing water damage requires more complex tools than big fans and time. Of course, there are plenty of situations in which homeowners can fix a problem with a DIY approach, but water damage and flooded structured is not one of them.
Call 1st Call Disaster Services for Cincinnati Metro Area Water Damage Restoration
Water damage can happen anytime, and the cause is often unpredictable. Excess water from floods to faulty plumbing can jeopardize your home – and your safety. A quick response is critical for mitigating the impact of water damage, and 1st Call Disaster Services has the experience, technology, and techniques to repair water-damaged areas quickly and effectively.
If you've experienced water damage of ANY kind for your COMMERCIAL or RESIDENTIAL property and need immediate help, call our 24/7 response line at (859) 765-7744 . Take the proper precautions by reviewing our list of Water Emergency To-Dos and minimize the damage as much as possible.