DIY Vs. Professional Water Damage Restoration – When to Call the Experts

Restoring water damage is a daunting process that involves extracting water, drying and dehumidifying, and cleaning. Many restoration companies provide full-service solutions and can even help file insurance claims.

Whether homeowners decide to DIY or hire professionals, the decision should be made depending on the extent of the damage and the type of water. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each option.

Cost-Effectiveness

Water damage is one of the most common claims homeowners make, and many attempt to clean up the mess themselves. It’s important to know when to call the professionals. Trying to clean up or restore the area yourself can lead to further damage, mold growth, and other complications.

Homeowner’s insurance typically covers the cost of a professional restoration service. It is much more cost-effective than attempting to save money by handling the restoration yourself.

Another reason to call a professional is that they work quickly. Ottawa water damage restoration companies are accustomed to dealing with water damage and have the resources and equipment to get things back to normal as soon as possible. They also have specialized drying equipment that can return areas to their pre-loss condition in a fraction of the time it would take a homeowner or business owner. It can help prevent additional damage, save items that might otherwise be lost, and prevent costly mold growth.

Safety

When water damage is not handled correctly, it can lead to future problems that cost even more. It includes mold and mildew that may harm your health if inhaled or ingested. It can also lead to structural problems with your home or building that require expensive repairs.

A professional restoration company has the tools to quickly clean up water damage, including specialized equipment such as wet/dry shop vacs and moisture detection devices. These are tools that the average homeowner probably doesn’t have lying around and could make the cleanup process much more complex and time-consuming.

In addition, professionals have the training and experience necessary to handle various water damage situations. It refers to Category 3 water damage, contaminated with pathogens or other hazardous substances that can harm your health if inhaled or directly touched. It is a type of water damage that should always be left to the professionals for the safety of your family and pets.

Expertise

Many people choose to do a DIY project to save money. But it’s important to remember that a DIY project isn’t always the best choice, especially regarding water damage restoration.

The restoration process requires much knowledge and expertise, which most homeowners don’t have. It involves several steps, including water extraction, thorough drying and dehumidification, and careful cleaning. A professional company will use the right tools and machinery for each step. It will also follow a specific approach to prevent further damage and mold growth.

In addition, the pros work surprisingly quickly. A restoration company can achieve in a day what most homeowners could spend four months trying to do independently. They may also notice hidden damage you might have missed, such as a leaky roof or slow pipe that’s been sending water to other parts of your home for years. They’ll work alongside your home insurance to ensure all repairs are covered.

Time

You might feel tempted to handle your water damage cleanup in a world where you can find a DIY video on YouTube for just about anything. However, doing so could lead to further damage and cost you more money in the long run. Calling a restoration company immediately when you discover water damage in your home is best.

Water and moisture can quickly spread throughout your property, causing structural damage and mold. You can speed up the process by opening as many windows as possible and using fans and dehumidifiers to draw out moisture. However, a professional can get the job done faster since they work quickly and are trained to inspect and dry areas thoroughly. They will also be able to salvage items you might not be able to. In addition, they know what to look for, such as hidden mold and sewage contamination. It is essential for your health, as sewage contaminants can cause serious illness.