Essential Steps for Drying Your Building After Water Damage

When water damage occurs, many homeowners and businesses are uncertain about the correct steps to take, which can lead to additional complications and higher repair costs. Knowing and following the right procedures can save time, reduce stress, and help prevent long-term issues such as structural damage and mold growth. We’ll outline the essential steps for drying out your building after water damage and provide tips to manage the process efficiently.

Assess the Damage

Before you begin the drying process, it’s important to assess the extent of the water damage. Here’s how:

• Safety First: Ensure the building is safe to enter. Turn off electricity and gas supplies to prevent accidents.
• Inspection: Check for structural damage, electrical issues, and the presence of hazardous materials. Look for water stains, mold growth and weakened structures.
• Documentation: Take photos and notes for insurance purposes. Documenting the damage can help in the claims process.

Call Your Insurance Company

One of the first steps after discovering water damage is to contact your insurance company. Here’s what to do:

• Report the Damage: Inform your insurance company about the water damage as soon as possible.
• Provide Documentation: Share photos, notes, and any other documentation you have gathered.
• Follow Instructions: Follow any specific instructions provided by your insurance company for filing a claim and arranging for an adjuster to assess the damage.

Contact a Property Damage Restoration Company

Partnering with a professional restoration company like Polygon Restoration can significantly aid in the drying and restoration process.

• Professional Assessment: Polygon Restoration experts can provide a thorough assessment of the damage.
• Advanced Equipment: We use specialized equipment for efficient water removal and drying.

• Disinfection: Our team can apply treatments to prevent mold growth and mitigate health risks.
• Experience and Expertise: With extensive experience, Polygon Restoration handles complex cases to ensure all areas are thoroughly dried.

Remove Standing Water

The initial step in the drying process is to remove any standing water. We handle this by:

• Using Pumps and Vacuums: For large amounts of water, use submersible pumps. For smaller areas, wet/dry vacuums are effective.
• Mopping and Blotting: For areas where water can’t be pumped out, use mops and towels to soak up the water.

Drying Out the Building

Once the standing water is removed, the drying process begins. We ensure thorough drying through:

• Ventilation: We use industrial fans to enhance airflow throughout the building.
• Dehumidifiers: High-capacity dehumidifiers are strategically placed in affected areas to lower moisture levels in the air.
• Remove Wet Materials: Our team removes and dries carpets, rugs, furniture, and other wet materials separately. In some cases, they may need to be discarded if they are too damaged.
• Drywall and Insulation: We handle the removal of damaged drywall and insulation, as these materials can absorb significant amounts of water. We will cut away damaged sections and replace them once the area is thoroughly dry.

Drying out a building after water damage is essential in mitigating further damage and preventing health hazards. By following these steps—assessing the damage, removing standing water, and thoroughly drying the building—Polygon Restoration ensures your property is restored efficiently and effectively. Prioritize safety and act swiftly to mitigate the impact of water damage on your business operations. Our expert team is ready to assist you through every step of the recovery process.