When your home or business has suffered water damage, the process of getting it cleaned and stabilized can be overwhelming. Often, you may not know where to start.
That’s why it’s important to know what to expect from a water damage restoration company, and how First Call can help you get back to normal in an efficient, safe manner.
How First Call Manages the Water Damage Restoration Process
Step One: The Assessment
First, our professionals assess the problem. There are several levels of water damage, and they center on how many of the porous materials have been affected.
Level 1: There is little water absorption
In this class, the water can generally be easily evaporated. Materials that take a long time to dry out—such as carpets, walls, insulation and ceilings—make up less than five percent of the affected area.
This level represents the least amount of water damage.
Level 2: Mid-range water absorption
This is a step worse than level one. This means that water has invaded almost half of the porous materials such as carpets.
Level 3 – Extensive water absorption
If the amount of water has affected more than 40 percent, then we designate it as Level 3.
Level 4 –Highest level of water damage
This is the most serious type of assessment. This means it will take longer to dry and ventilate your property.
Step 2: Make Sure Standing Water is Removed
Then, it’s essential to quickly design a drying system. This may involve several dryers and dehumidifiers.
Once the initial standing water has been removed, our job is far from over. We utilize the latest imaging cameras and moisture meters to ensure that your home or business has been thoroughly dried.
Many people may believe they can remove standing water and use dehumidifiers to get the job done. However, they are overlooking the more extensive moisture damage that can be done to drywall and even air ducts. Often, carpet must be replaced and mold removed. This is essential in order to control odor.
Some possessions may need to be removed or repaired, such as:
- Drywall
- Floors
- Drapery or any upholstery
- Floors
- Ductwork
- HVAC systems
Step 3: Deep cleaning
It’s vital that all your personal belongings are sanitized. If not, it sets the stage for mold and bacterial growth. We utilize our air scrubbers when it is needed to remove moisture that may remain in the air.
Step 4: Complete Restoration
The scope and extent of this process depends upon the damage. Often, we may have to replace flooring, repair drywall or even thoroughly clean and disinfect the HVAC system.
Complete Documentation
While immediate repair is the top priority, it’s only one facet of what you should expect from a water damage restoration company.
All work must be carefully and fully documented for insurance purposes. You can expect First Call to work closely with your insurance company to save you the time, hassle and headaches.
When Water Damage Strikes, Make the Right Call with First Call
Whether you’ve had damage to your family home or a major warehouse, First Call is ready to assist with any job of any size.
With decades of experience under our belt, we represent the best in water restoration companies near you.
But what makes us truly exceptional is the dedication to customer service that rises above our competition.
If you have water damage, it’s important that you get immediate help. Every hour you delay means more extensive water damage.
Contact us today for an estimate.
