As a homeowner or property manager, discovering water damage can be alarming and overwhelming. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, a leaking roof, or natural disasters, it is important to act fast. The damage water can cause to your property and the health risks posed by potential mold growth can be quite serious and should not be underestimated. With so many DIY tutorials online, it’s tempting to tackle the problem on your own. Before you decide to go the do-it-yourself route for water damage restoration, we at Beacon Restoration want to offer our perspective on why calling in professional services might be the more effective option.
Water damage restoration can be far more complicated than it initially seems. Here is some important information that we think is important to consider when you are making your decision.
Key Takeaways
- Don’t Underestimate the Problem: Water damage is usually more complex than it looks, with hidden moisture and potential structural issues lurking behind the scenes.
- Mold is a Real Threat: Mold can start growing really quickly and poses serious health risks. Professionals have the gear and know-how to deal with it safely.
- DIY Can Cost You More: While saving money upfront seems good, DIY often leads to bigger expenses down the road from improper fixes or additional damage.
- Insurance is Tricky: Navigating insurance claims is tough, and professionals can help ensure you get a fair payout.
- When in Doubt, Call a Pro: For anything more than minor, non-structural damage, it’s always best to consult with or hire an expert to ensure your property and health are protected.
Structural Safety Concerns
Water can significantly weaken the structure of your property. Without the appropriate knowledge and equipment, you might not be able to assess the full extent of the damage. Professionals from companies like ours use advanced tools to evaluate structural integrity, ensuring that the restoration process is safe for everyone involved.
Hidden Moisture
Water has a way of getting everywhere, and sometimes, what you see is just the tip of the iceberg. Moisture can hide under flooring, behind walls, and in other hard-to-reach places. Without the proper equipment, such as moisture detectors and hygrometers, you might not be able to detect and address all the excess moisture, leading to more serious issues like mold and rot.
Mold Growth
Mold thrives in moist environments and can begin to grow within 24-48 hours after water exposure. If you don’t handle it right, it can really affect the health and overall wellbeing of anyone living there. Mold removal requires specialized equipment and safety protocols that professionals are trained to handle.
Time and Cost Efficiency
Going the DIY route might seem like a good idea for your wallet now, but it could end up costing you more in the long run. The investment in necessary equipment, materials, and the value of your time often exceeds the initial cost of hiring a professional. Oftentimes, it can be beneficial to hire an expert to ensure you get the best insurance coverage as well. Also, without the expertise, you might end up causing more damage, leading to higher costs than initially anticipated.
Insurance Claims
Navigating the process of insurance claims can be a daunting task. Missteps can lead to denied claims or reduced payouts. The Beacon Restoration pros know the claims process inside and out, so we can help you document your losses correctly, improving your chances of a fair settlement.
Is There Any Time Where The DIY Method Is Okay?
There are certain scenarios where a DIY approach might be an option. This is usually for minor, non-structural damage, for example:
- The affected area is small and easily accessible.
- There is no sewage or otherwise contaminated water involved (which poses significant health risks).
- You have the right safety gear and are comfortable using it.
- You are capable of identifying and stopping the water source immediately.
- You are knowledgeable about moisture detection and mold prevention.
In these situations, it’s a good idea to at least chat with a pro to make sure all the damage is handled and nothing else needs addressing before you consider the job done.
The Benefit of Working With the Experts
At Beacon Restoration, we’re all about showing you why professional water damage restoration is the way to go. Let’s chat about a few of the perks.
Comprehensive Assessment and Action Plan
Our team conducts thorough assessments to create a targeted action plan. This plan is super important for dealing with all the different aspects of water damage, from getting rid of the water, to drying everything out, to making sure it’s all clean and sanitized.
State-of-the-Art Equipment
We utilize industrial-strength equipment such as submersible pumps, heavy-duty dehumidifiers, and air movers. These tools are more effective at removing water and moisture than consumer-grade products.
Trained and Certified Technicians
Our pros have been through serious training and earned their certifications. They have the expertise in handling different categories of water damage, including clean water, greywater, and blackwater, each requiring specific safety precautions and remediation techniques.
Long-Term Peace of Mind
By choosing a professional restoration service, you protect the long-term value of your property. Professional restoration services do not just address the immediate damage but also help prevent future issues related to the incident.
Coordination with Insurance
We can help smooth out the insurance claim process. Our experience with insurance companies ensures that your claim is taken seriously, and you receive the coverage you’re entitled to.
Health and Safety Protocols
Professionals are equipped with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow strict health and safety protocols to prevent contamination and the spread of harmful pathogens.
When In Doubt, Consult With the Experts!
Doing water damage cleanup yourself might seem like a good way to save a buck at first, but it’s actually pretty tricky and can cause more problems for your home and even your health if you don’t know what you’re doing or have the right gear. Those initial savings often get eaten up by bigger, long-term costs and risks.
Dealing with water damage can be super stressful, and we get that! Here at Beacon Restoration, we’re all about getting your place back to normal safely, effectively, and as quickly as possible. So before you grab your tools and try to fix it yourself, just give us a shout. We can offer some tips or even come help out, potentially saving you a ton of hassle and money.
Your home and safety are our priorities. Trust Beacon Restoration to bring your property back to pre-loss conditions, ensuring that the job isn’t just done, but done right. Call us now to get started.