DIY home improvement projects can be fun and rewarding. When a project has been finished and it turned out just how you envisioned it, it gives you the drive and resolve to keep tackling more. When something is broken or needs to be replaced, it can save some money if you are able to do it on your own. While it is great to learn how to do new things, make needed repairs, and see projects come together in your home, there are certain things that should not be tackled alone. When water damage occurs from a leaky or burst pipe, malfunctioning appliances, or even a flooded toilet, it may be tempting to try to handle the cleanup on your own. The team at Total Restoration know that water damage can lead to some serious, expensive problems to your Conroe home if not handled correctly.
The Three Types of Water Damage
Before any water damage cleanup can begin, you have to determine what type of water damage you are dealing with. There are three categories of water damage, and each has its own process to be followed in order to ensure effective cleanup. Category 1 water damage results from “clean water”, like a burst pipe or water line. The longer water sits, the worse the damage becomes. If Category 1 water sits too long before getting cleaned up, it can turn into Category 2 water damage, or “gray water” damage. Gray water damage occurs when the water source is contaminated with chemical, physical, or biological elements that could cause illness. This water often comes from malfunctioning dishwasher or washing machines, and sinks and toilet overflow. Category 2 water requires additional sanitation and decontamination along with the cleanup to prevent illness. Without the proper training and equipment, and if not handled quickly and correctly, gray water can turn into a Category 3 water damage. This is referred to as “black water” because it contains significant pathogens that can cause serious illness and death if ingested. This type of water damage comes from sewage backups, floodwaters, or stagnant water that has been present for an extended period of time and has begun to grow bacteria. Black water damage should never be handled on your own. Cleaning up after any kind of water damage requires proper personal protective equipment along with the proper drying and cleaning equipment to ensure your home is restored safely.
Leave it to the Professionals
Because each type of water damage has its own risks associated with it, it is better to leave restoration to a team that has experience, training, and equipment to clean up the mess. Timing is also a huge factor when cleaning up water damage. Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours after water damage occurs, so getting your home cleaned and dried ASAP will mitigate any further damage. If the source of the water damage is unknown, it cannot be stopped. Professional restoration teams know how to find the source, determine the correct course of action, and get it stopped. Total Restoration has restored more than 5,000 properties throughout Texas, and are ready to respond to your water damage needs in Conroe and surrounding areas. We will work with your insurance company on covered losses so your property can be restored as quickly as possible and as affordable as possible. Do not try to handle it alone, let Total Restoration help keep you, your home, and your family safe while we handle your water damage cleanup.