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What to Do Immediately After You Discover Water Damage in Your Home

Water damage in your home is one of the most stressful situations you can face as a homeowner. Whether it’s caused by a burst pipe, heavy rain, or an overflowing appliance, discovering water damage can be overwhelming. In Memphis, TN, sudden weather changes and plumbing issues are common causes of water damage, making it especially important to know the proper steps to take when it occurs.

This blog will guide you through what to do immediately after you discover water damage in your home. We will explain the importance of taking prompt action, the steps to prevent further damage, and why calling in professionals like ServiceMaster by Cornerstone for restoration is crucial to fully restore your home and avoid long-term consequences.

What You Need to Know About Home Water Damage

Water damage can come from various sources, and it’s important to recognize the signs early so that you can act quickly. In Memphis, homes are vulnerable to water damage due to extreme weather conditions such as heavy storms, floods, and even seasonal changes that can lead to frozen pipes. Additionally, plumbing failures like burst pipes or leaking water heaters can wreak havoc in your home.

Water damage can be classified as "clean water damage," which is typically caused by plumbing issues, or "black water damage," which comes from contaminated water, such as sewage backups or flooding. Regardless of the type, it’s important to understand that the longer the water sits, the greater the damage will be. Unaddressed water damage can lead to mold growth, weakened structures, and increased repair costs.

Steps to Take Immediately After Discovering Water Damage

When water damage occurs, your first instinct might be to panic, but it’s essential to act calmly and quickly to minimize the damage. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Shut Off the Water Supply
    If the water damage is caused by a plumbing issue, the first thing to do is turn off the main water valve to stop the water flow. If a burst pipe or a leak is the culprit, turning off the water supply will prevent further flooding. The quicker you stop the source of water, the less damage your home will experience.
  2. Identify the Source of the Water
    Once the water supply has been shut off, assess the situation to determine the source of the water. Is it a plumbing issue, or has a roof leak, storm damage, or an overflowing appliance caused the problem? Knowing the source will help you address the root cause and prevent more water from entering the home.
  3. Move Valuables Out of the Affected Area
    If it’s safe to do so, immediately remove valuables, electronics, furniture, and personal items from the flooded area. Water can quickly damage or destroy these items, and it’s important to protect them from further harm. If you can’t move items, try to raise them above the water level until help arrives.
  4. Begin Water Extraction
    The faster you can remove the water, the less damage it will cause. Use towels, a wet/dry vacuum, or a mop to soak up as much water as possible. If standing water is more than a couple of inches deep, you may need to call in a professional to extract the water more effectively.
  5. Dry the Area
    After removing the water, it's essential to dry out the area quickly to prevent mold growth. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to allow airflow. If the water has affected large areas, professional-grade dehumidifiers may be necessary. Be sure to target hidden spaces like behind walls and under floors, as moisture can easily get trapped there.
  6. Inspect for Mold Growth
    Mold thrives in damp conditions, and water damage creates the perfect breeding ground. Even if you’ve dried the area, mold can begin to grow within 24-48 hours. Inspect the affected areas for signs of mold growth, particularly in hidden spaces like behind drywall or under carpeting. If you see any signs of mold, contact a professional water damage restoration service immediately.

Why Home Water Damage Restoration Is Crucial

Restoring your home after water damage is about more than just cleaning up the mess. Here’s why water damage restoration is essential:

  • Prevention of Mold Growth
    If left untreated, water damage can quickly lead to mold growth. Mold poses significant health risks, including respiratory issues and allergic reactions. A professional restoration company will be able to identify and eliminate hidden moisture, which will prevent mold from forming.
  • Protecting Your Home’s Structure
    Prolonged exposure to water can weaken your home’s structure. Wood can warp, drywall can crumble, and metal fixtures can rust. A professional restoration company can dry and restore the structure of your home to prevent long-term damage.
  • Health Risks
    Water damage, especially when it involves contaminated water (black water), can pose serious health risks. Standing water can harbor bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may be harmful to your health. Restoration professionals are trained to safely handle and sanitize these contaminated areas.
  • Reducing Long-Term Costs
    The longer you wait to address water damage, the more extensive and costly the repairs will become. Immediate action can help you save money on repairs by preventing issues such as mold, weakened structural components, or damaged belongings.

Why Choose ServiceMaster by Cornerstone for Home Water Damage Restoration in Memphis, TN

When it comes to water damage restoration, it’s important to work with an experienced and reliable company. Here’s why ServiceMaster by Cornerstone is the top choice for homeowners in Memphis, TN:

  • 24/7 Emergency Service
    Water damage can happen at any time, day or night. ServiceMaster by Cornerstone offers 24/7 emergency services, meaning you can rely on them to respond quickly to your water damage emergency. Their fast response time helps prevent further damage and reduces the risk of mold growth.
  • Certified Experts
    The technicians at ServiceMaster by Cornerstone are highly trained and certified in water damage restoration. They have the expertise to handle everything from water extraction to complete structural restoration. Their knowledge and experience ensure that your home is properly restored to its original condition.
  • State-of-the-Art Equipment
    ServiceMaster by Cornerstone uses advanced equipment to thoroughly dry and restore your home. From moisture-detection tools to industrial-grade dehumidifiers, they have the technology to tackle even the toughest water damage situations.
  • Comprehensive Restoration Services
    Water damage restoration is a multi-step process that includes drying, mold remediation, sanitization, and structural repair. ServiceMaster by Cornerstone provides a full range of services to ensure your home is restored to its pre-damage condition.

Discovering water damage in your home can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but it’s essential to act quickly to prevent further damage. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can minimize the effects of water damage and begin the restoration process immediately.

However, water damage restoration is a complex job that requires professional expertise. If you’ve discovered water damage in your home, don’t wait to take action. Contact ServiceMaster by Cornerstone today for fast, reliable, and expert restoration services in Memphis, TN. Their team is ready to help restore your home and give you peace of mind.

If you’re dealing with water damage in your home, don’t wait. Contact ServiceMaster by Cornerstone today to get fast and reliable restoration services in Memphis, TN!

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