Water Removal: An Essential Service

10/9/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: This article by SERVPRO of Central & West Plano describes why water removal is an essential service.

Water damage can devastate homes and businesses, and is a common cause of property damage in the US. It can be due to a multitude of reasons like leaking pipes and appliances, severe weather, faulty HVAC systems, etc. According to available data, around 14,000 people are affected by water damage in a day across the US. Water damage needs to be addressed as soon as possible so that it does not affect life or business. Also, the risk of worsening water damage is reduced, and additional expenses are limited. 

In cases where the water damage is insignificant or minimal, homeowners may be able to tackle it themselves. But, any significant water damage affecting a larger area or due to contaminated water needs the services of water damage restoration professionals. SERVPRO® of Central & West Plano is a locally owned and operated business providing water damage restoration in Plano, TX, and other local communities. Water damage restoration is a multi-step process, and water removal is one of these steps. In this article, SERVPRO of Central & West Plano explains why water removal is an essential service. 

The steps of water damage restoration include:

1. Contacting emergency services
2. Inspection and assessment of water damage
3. Water removal
4. Drying and dehumidification
5. Cleaning, sanitization, and deodorization
6. Monitoring to check the effectiveness of water removal and drying
7. Repairs and construction as needed

Water removal

Water removal is sometimes also referred to as water extraction. It is the process that involves removing standing water and water absorbed by surrounding materials and objects in areas affected by water damage. This is done by assessing the area and identifying the source of water damage and locating areas badly affected or hidden. After water removal, drying and dehumidification of the area are done.

Is water removal essential?

When water is left standing, it can seep through the foundations and cause damage. The longer the water is left standing, the more structural deterioration it can cause. Water removal needs to be done immediately to limit the structural weakening of the building. 

When there is a damp area, it functions as a favorable environment for mold to develop. According to FEMA mold growth can begin on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours. When surfaces are moist for a long time, the risk for mold growth is higher. For this reason, it is critical to initiate water removal immediately and ensure that it is done thoroughly to extract as much water as possible. When done thoroughly, water removal can make the step of drying and dehumidification faster and easier. 

As it is so important, water removal is best handled by a professional. Water damage restoration technicians are experienced and trained to find hidden water damage and locate the source of water. They are also skilled in using specialized equipment for water removal.

Water removal by professionals

When there is water damage that is extensive, caused by contaminated water or is beyond what the homeowner can handle, a water damage restoration expert is the best to handle water removal. SERVPRO of Central and West Plano is quick to respond to water emergencies in Plano, TX, among other local communities. Water damage restoration technicians have the training and certification that enables them to perform safe and efficient water removal. These teams have personal protective equipment, and specialized equipment, and adhere to required standards. 

Devices like hygrometers and moisture detectors are used by professionals to measure moisture levels in affected buildings before and after water removal. They can detect water damage within walls and ceilings, that is not in plain view, using equipment like infrared cameras.

Water damage restoration crews are also trained to use heavy-duty submersible pumps and industrial vacuums (wet and dry). Water is also extracted using portable or truck-mounted water extractors. The use of such equipment ensures speedy and efficient water removal is done by professionals. This makes the drying process faster. Proper water removal lessens the risk of mold growth and secondary water damage.

If water removal is not done properly, it can lead to more water damage and resulting complications. To ensure water removal by highly-trained technicians in Plano, TX, homeowners can reach out to SERVPRO of Central and West Plano. Being a leader in the fire and water damage restoration industry speaks something for their expertise in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property. SERVPRO of Central and West Plano can be reached by dialing (945) 348-5804. They are available 24/7 for emergency services and are quick to reach.