What Can You Expect With Storm Damage?

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

What Should You Expect When It Comes To Storm Damage?

The first time that you return to your Bonita Springs, FL, building after a storm or a flood can be devastating. At first, the destruction may seem impossible to recover, especially with flooding and water damage. The idea of a complete tear out of the building can be daunting. Yet storm restoration is not impossible, and by knowing what to expect, you can create an effective recovery plan.

1. Getting Rid of the Water

The first thing you need to do before anything else is water extraction. This means getting rid of any standing water or water that may have flooded in recessed areas. In some instances, this is just a matter of wiping and mopping up, but in others, you may need to open drainage pathways or even use vacuum suction to remove the majority of flood waters from the premises.

2. Removing Wet Materials

The next step in alleviating storm damage is a complete tear out of wet materials that cannot be adequately dried in place and may even lead to mold and mildew. This includes carpet, wallpaper, and sometimes even floor tile. These materials not only become waterlogged but can also trap water underneath them, making it impossible for the building to completely dry out.

In the instances of extremely bad flooding, you may need to remove waterlogged wood or drywall. Once water has soaked into the building’s structural materials, many times those materials cannot be recovered and must instead be knocked out and replaced.

3. Drying Out the Structure

After you finish your tear out and dispose of waterlogged materials, you need to dry out the building completely. The easy way to do this is to open the windows and wait, but you can also use fans and other devices to hasten the drying process. Any waterlogged areas should get the most attention, and as they dry, they should be tested for structural integrity. It may require professional storm restoration services to ensure the safety of the building.