What Are The Pitfalls Of DIY Water Damage Cleanup

Water damage is a disaster that can hit at any time, destroying homes and personal belongings. Many homeowners may be tempted to do water damage cleanup themselves. The DIY approach, however, comes with many dangers and can prove futile. This blog post explores the risks of DIY water damage cleanup and why it is crucial to enlist the help of professionals for effective restoration.

Water Damage Restoration in Florence, Nebraska

Inadequate Assessment and Mitigation

One of the major mistakes with DIY water damage mitigation is the lack of assessment and mitigation. Without the knowledge and tools to assess and mitigate damaged areas properly, homeowners can miss hidden moisture pockets and fail to dry those areas enough. Over time, moisture can remain in pockets and create the ideal environment for mold growth, as well as damage structures more than it would have if an expert had remediated it. Water damage restoration professionals are knowledgeable and equipped to assess and mitigate further damage.

Health and Safety Risks

DIY cleaning up of water damage can place homeowners and their families at risk of severe health and safety issues. Standing water can house dangerous toxins, bacteria, and pathogens that can cause illness if left in a home without proper cleanup. Mold and mildew left unattended also can lead to breathing problems and allergic reactions. People with weakened immune systems can experience more significant risks of infections and other serious health problems from mold. Water damage professionals have the proper training in safety protocols and also have the necessary protective gear to ensure a safe cleanup.

Ineffective Drying and Restoration

Proper drying and restoration are essential aspects of water damage cleanup to prevent mold growth and structural damage. Using household fans or dehumidifiers to dry out affected areas is not sufficient enough to properly dry out buildings. This is because some of the moisture will remain hidden in structural cavities, leading to mold growth and secondary damage. Professional water damage restoration companies use commercial-grade drying equipment, such as professional air movers and dehumidifiers, and moisture meters to return water-damaged properties to the way they were before the water damage occurred.

Damage to Belongings and Property

DIY water damage cleanup can cause permanent damage to belongings and property. Water-damaged items, such as furniture, electronics, paper documents, photographs, books, collectibles, and valuables, can be irreparably damaged if not properly handled. Homeowners attempting a DIY water cleanup project may also cause further damage to the flooring, walls, and structural components of their homes. Besides getting trained in proper safety procedures, professional water damage restoration technicians are also trained in how to handle belongings and property by salvaging them in a way that minimizes further damage and increases the chance they can be salvaged. 

Costly Mistakes and Long-Term Consequences

DIY water damage cleanup can lead to costly mistakes and long-term consequences for homeowners. Inadequate or incomplete mitigation and restoration efforts may result in hidden and unattended damage, which can then escalate into more significant issues down the road. Mold growth, structural damage, and compromised indoor air quality are just some of the long-term consequences that can result from unsuccessful DIY cleanup attempts. With professional water damage restoration, homeowners can avoid costly mistakes and keep their homes safe and healthy.

DIY water damage cleanup can result in potentially significant risks and pitfalls that threaten the safety, health, and integrity of the home. From a lack of proper assessment and mitigation to health and safety dangers, ineffective drying, and damage to belongings, DIY cleanup can have long-term and costly pitfalls for those who attempt to clean up and restore their property on their own. In the face of water damage, to ensure effective restoration and minimize risks, contact us at True North Restoration of Omaha-Elkhorn. Our team of professionals will provide the necessary experience, equipment, and techniques to restore your home back to pre-loss condition.