Water damage remediation is a series of measures taken to restore a structure after water damage has occurred, as seen in flooding or structures with prolonged exposure to moisture. This is a specialty service, and some skill is required to perform it correctly, as water damage can cause myriad problems. In communities where water damage is common, it is often possible to find a local company offering water damage remediation, while in other regions, it may be necessary to use a contractor from out of the area.
In addition to causing immediate physical damage like staining, water damage can cause profound structural issues if it leaks into joists and other support members. The water will cause swelling and damage in the short term, and can create a home for mold and mildew in the long term, leading to situations where structures develop problems years after the incident. Water damage can also corrode wiring and plumbing.
The first step in water damage remediation is usually the removal of obviously waterlogged materials like carpeting and sheetrock. Pulling up flooring and removing walls will also expose normally hidden structures for examination. They can be checked for signs of damage and evaluated for repair needs, and while exposed, they can be allowed to thoroughly dry if they appear to be in good condition, if slightly wet. Fans and heaters are used to lower humidity in the building, getting everything as dry as possible. Air circulation also inhibits fungal growth.
Once the structure is entirely dry and everything left inside has been cleared for use, reconstruction can begin. Damaged parts of a building can be replaced with new ones, and when the repairs are finished, carpeting and other flooring can be reinstalled and the structure can be repainted. Rehabilitation of the inside of a structure during water damage remediation can take a few days for minor water damage, and months in major cases.
During water damage remediation, the utmost care must be taken to preserve the integrity of the structure. Any dubious structural members should be removed and replaced, and the structure needs to dry thoroughly before people can move forward with steps to start repairing and covering the inside. If water is sealed into crevices of the structure during the repairs, it will lead to rot in the future, creating potentially very expensive repairs, as the structure will need to be pulled apart all over again to find and remove the damage.