How to Mitigate Water Damage

Know the risks - Overflowing clean water can soak a drywall within minutes and cause severe water damage within a few days, if left untreated. 

Respond rapidly - Mitigate clean water damage within the first 24 hours, to save your property from mould growth and further damages. 

Remove all excess moisture - After removing pooled water, use a combination of drying tools to make sure you really 'extinguish' all moisture.  

Please note! In case water is contaminated (grey or black water) - Immediately call for help from a professional water damage restoration service. Do not attempt to remove water yourself! 

You can safely mitigate these clean water leaks yourself:

  • Overflowing bathtub or sink
  • Leaking water hose (for ice maker, dishwasher, washing machine)
  • Melting ice or snow
  • Falling rainwater
  • Leaking toilet tanks
  • Toilet bowls that do not contain contaminants or additive
  • Keep in mind that when clean water leaves its source, it may not remain clean if it comes into contact with other surfaces or materials

Learn more: Water Damage Categories and Classes Explained

 

Water Damage Cleanup - Step by Step

  1. Contain the water leak - Turn off the main water valve, locate and repair the water leak

  2. Remove pooled water - Use a mop, sump pump, wet vacuum, water extractor, etc.

  3. Prepare to dry - Remove furniture, bedding, all other materials and loose items. Shut all doors and windows to speed up the drying process.

  4. Dispatch your drying tools - The combination of Air Mover, Dehumidifier and Air Scrubber will work together to evaporate, dehumidify and purify the affected area.

  5. Let the system work without interruption for at least 24 hours for best results. 

 

Water Damage Mitigation - Common Questions 

We have water damage insurance coverage, do we still need to mitigate water damage?

Yes. Almost every insurance policy comes with a condition that you as a the property owner must mitigate your loss to prevent further damages when accidents happen. 

Rapid water damage mitigation could allow you to: 

  • Save your home from further destruction
  • Stop mould and mildew from festering
  • Save money on insurance rates and fees
  • Avoid costly and extensive repairs
  • Return your property to its original condition sooner

 

What happens if water damage is left untreated?

Within an hour

  • Walls and floors start to absorb moisture.
  • Furniture start to bleed.
  • Permanent stains on floors and carpets appear.
  • Paper swell and warp. 

Within 24 hours

  • A musty and sour odor is becoming noticeable.
  • Drywalls and furniture bread down.
  • Metal tarnishes.
  • Dyes and ink seep, spread and stain. 

Within a week

  • Mould and mildew start to grow.
  • Metal rusts.
  • Paint blisters, wall papers release.
  • Windows and door swell and warp.
  • Wood flooring buckle. 

After a week

  • Mould and biohazardous contaminants could compromise your health and safety.
  • The structure may start crumbling down.
  • Evacuation has to be considered.  

 

Which drying equipment should I use to mitigate water damage?

    A combination of Air Mover, Dehumidifier and Air Scrubber will work together to evaporate, dehumidify and purify the affected area.

    Learn more and order equipment for water damage mitigation & restoration here

     

    Back to blog