Don’t Stress Over Water Damage: Techniques Professionals Use to Clean Up the Mess
Dealing with a water problem in your home or business is never a fun task. In fact, we are willing to be it is causing you a little stress. The good news is, companies like PRS Southern have been cleaning up after water losses for years and use the latest innovations in restoration technology to get your space dried quickly and effectively, back to its pre-loss condition.
Water damage can come from all different kinds of sources. Some of the most common we see are:
- Leaky or broken pipes
- Malfunctioning appliances (such as a rusted out hot water heater or overflowing washing machine.)
- Roof leak
- Overflowing bathtub, sink, or toilet
- Acts of nature
If you see evidence of a water problem in your home, but aren’t sure the source, PCS Southern has some Superman-like tools they can use to find the source of the problem. That is one of the first steps of the restoration process.
Thermal Imaging/Infrared Camera
Just because there is visible damage, doesn’t mean a whole wall has to be ripped out. Experience restoration companies use thermal imaging/infrared cameras to help detect where there might be water damage before doing any demo. These cameras show a temperature difference within a wall. On the screen of the thermal imaging camera, you will see most areas of your home glow in reds and oranges. However, an area of blue indicates a cooler area which might mean water or moisture. It could also mean a draft from air outside, so that’s where the next tool comes in handy.
Moisture Meter
There are a variety of different kinds of moisture meters and accessories, but we won’t bore you with that. However, what you should know is that these handy little devices can actually read moisture levels within materials like walls, ceilings, floors, etc. There are meters that can simply be pressed up to the damp surface and give the technician a moisture reading. Similarly, some meters have a small pin that can be inserted into a wall to detect moisture in a space not visible with the naked eye.
Dryers, Air Movers, & Extractors
As soon as the PCS Southern team arrives, the drying process begins. That means technicians will get to work removing any excess moisture in the home with industrial grade water extractors. Plus, large air movers and dryers will be strategically placed throughout the home. There is a lot of science and training that goes into understanding the drying process from a scientific standpoint and understanding where to place equipment for optimum drying efficiency.
Disinfectants & Cleaners
It is important that areas where water has been sitting be properly cleaned and disinfected if they are not going to be totally replaced. Mold and bacteria can easily grow in water-damaged areas, so a thorough cleaning is certainly in order.
Act Quickly!
The biggest piece of advice we can offer is to act quickly if you think you have a water damage problem. The longer you wait, the larger the problem can become.
