Water Damage Cleanup professionals have the training and experience to assess the extent of the water damage and determine the best course of action to prevent further damage.

### Assessing Water Damage

– **Locate the source of the water:** Identifying the source of the water is a critical first step as it will help determine if the water intrusion is still active and if further investigation is necessary.

– **Determine the extent of the damage:** The extent of the water damage will be determined by the amount of water present, the duration of the exposure, and the type of materials that were exposed to the water.

– **Assess the structural integrity:** Water damage can weaken structural components, such as walls, floors, and ceilings. A professional assessment will determine if the structure is safe or if repairs or reconstruction are necessary.

### Dealing with Water Damage

– **Stop the source of the water:** If the water source is still active, it’s important to stop it as soon as possible. This may involve turning off the water supply, repairing a leaking pipe, or sealing a damaged roof.

– **Remove standing water:** Any standing water should be removed as soon as possible to prevent further damage. This can be done using a pump or wet/dry vacuum.

– **Dry out the affected area:** Once the standing water has been removed, the affected area should be dried out as quickly as possible. This can be done using fans, dehumidifiers, or professional drying equipment.

– **Clean and disinfect:** The affected area should be cleaned and disinfected to prevent mold and mildew growth. This may involve removing damaged materials, cleaning surfaces with a disinfectant solution, and applying a mold inhibitor.

– **Repair or replace damaged materials:** Once the area has been cleaned and dried, any damaged materials should be repaired or replaced. This may involve repairing drywall, replacing flooring, or reinstalling insulation.

– **Monitor for mold and mildew growth:** The affected area should be monitored for mold and mildew growth. If mold or mildew is found, it should be cleaned up immediately using a mold-specific cleaner.

### What Happens if Water Gets in Your Walls?

When water gets in your walls, it can cause a range of problems, including:

– **Structural damage:** Water can weaken the structural integrity of your walls, leading to cracks, bowing, or even collapse.

– **Mold and mildew growth:** Water provides an ideal environment for mold and mildew to grow. Mold and mildew can damage your walls, ceilings, and furnishings, and can also cause health problems.

– **Electrical hazards:** Water can damage electrical wiring, leading to electrical fires or shocks.

– **Health problems:** Mold and mildew can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory problems, allergies, and skin irritations.

If you suspect that water has gotten into your walls, it’s important to contact a Water Damage Cleanup professional immediately. They will have the training and experience to assess the damage, stop the source of the water, and safely dry out and repair your walls.