Water damage can be one of the worst nightmares for any home or property owner. Whether it’s caused by natural disasters, household mishaps, or, more recently, frozen pipes, water damage can happen anywhere and any time. It’s never convenient and it almost always costs hundreds to thousands of dollars or more to remediate.
Understanding water damage, its implications, and the importance of prompt, professional intervention can make all the difference in restoring your property and protecting it for the future. At Phoenix Construction, our 100+ years of combined experience in dealing with water damage and partnership with Phoenix Restoration Services makes us one of Oklahoma City’s leading restoration and disaster recovery companies. In addition to Phoenix Restoration being IICRC-trained and certified in water damage restoration, our team of professionals are also general contracting and construction experts, which means we can not only return your property to its previous condition–we can make it even better than it was before.
Understanding Water Damage
Water damage doesn’t have to be voluminous or sudden to compromise the structure and safety of your home or business. Recognizing its causes and warning signs and taking preventive measures are important ways you can catch any damage early, prevent it from worsening, and even protect your property from more in the future.
Causes of Water Damage
Water damage in homes and businesses can stem from a variety of sources, such as:
- Burst pipes, a common issue during freezing temperatures that can lead to significant flooding.
- Appliance malfunctions, such as a leaking dishwasher or an overflowing washing machine, which can cause water to seep into flooring and walls and contribute to structural weakening.
- Severe weather events, particularly in areas prone to heavy rains or flooding, can overwhelm drainage systems or penetrate barriers like roofs and windows, resulting in water intrusion.
- While less common, sewer backups present a severe risk, as they can introduce contaminated water into living spaces.
Warning Signs of Water Damage
Early detection of water damage can prevent extensive structural damage and health issues. Key signs to watch for include:
- Peeling paint or wallpaper.
- Sagging ceilings or warped floors.
- Musty or moldy odors.
- Dark spots on walls or ceilings.
- Visible mold growth.
- Pools of standing water.
Preventing Water Damage
Preventive measures are crucial to avoid the most costly consequences of water damage. Even if you discover water damage, identifying it early could mean the difference between minor damage remediation and substantial repairs and overhauls.
6 ways you can be proactive in watching out for water damage include:
- Regular inspections of plumbing systems can identify potential leaks or weak spots before they become a major issue.
- Ensuring good drainage around your property.
- Clear gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water buildup.
- Check appliance connections regularly for leaks and water, particularly in older models.
- Insulate pipes or drip faucets to prevent freezing and bursting in colder months.
- Consider installing water detection systems that can alert you to moisture in areas prone to water damage, such as basements and under sinks.
3 Steps to Take if You Discover Water Damage
If you encounter water damage in your home or business, act swiftly to minimize damage and potential health risks.
- First, if it is safe to do so, stop the source of the water to prevent further damage. Remember, personal safety is paramount; avoid entering areas with severe water damage or electrical hazards.
- Then, document the damage thoroughly with photographs and detailed notes, which will be essential for insurance claims. Immediate contact with your insurance company is important to start the claims process.
- Contact a professional restoration service like Phoenix Construction. Our team of professional experts can conduct the safe, thorough and effective cleanup necessary for remediating the damage and preventing long-term issues like mold growth and structural weakness, and we can complete all of your rebuilding and restoration needs to return your property to its original condition. We’ll work directly with your insurance company, and we offer a 2-year warranty with a 100% quality guarantee on all of our work.
The Dangers of Neglected Water Damage
Neglecting signs of water damage can cause a range of issues affecting both the integrity of your property and the well-being of its occupants. It is vital to address any water damage to prevent long-term and expensive consequences. If left unattended, water damage can rapidly worsen, leading to problems. This neglect can not only increase the cost of repairs but also cause your property to deteriorate faster, impacting its safety and value.
Health Risks Associated with Water Damage
Damp environments are ideal for mold and mildew growth, which can trigger respiratory issues and allergic reactions. Additionally, water from unsanitary sources, such as sewer backups, can contain bacteria and other harmful microbes, posing a risk of illness. These health risks are high for vulnerable individuals, such as children and older adults. The longer you leave water damage untreated, the more these health risks can increase, prioritizing the need for prompt action.
Structural Damage
Failing to address water issues promptly can lead to significant damage to your property’s structure. Continuous exposure to water weakens key structural elements like beams and foundations, which can risk the building’s stability. Water can also cause lasting harm to floors, walls, and even electrical systems, increasing the risk of accidents. Furthermore, ongoing water exposure can corrode plumbing and damage insulation, leading to hidden issues that are costly to repair. Acting quickly in the face of water damage is essential to maintain the strength and safety of your property.
Professional Water Damage Restoration Services in Oklahoma
Recovering properly from water damage of any degree requires more than just mopping up the mess; it takes thorough cleaning from professional experts. After extracting water and sewage, all affected areas should be professionally cleaned, dried, ventilated, deodorized, and disinfected as soon as possible. Flooring and carpet must be dried and cleaned or removed completely, and you may need structural drying. Your property may also need repairs and reconstruction, as well as mold inspection, removal, and remediation.
As a full-service construction, restoration, and general contracting company with decades of experience helping Oklahomans recover from water damage, there isn’t anything the professionals at Phoenix Construction haven’t seen or can’t fix, and we understand just how stressful dealing with water damage can be. That’s why we’re proud to be your single solution for water damage restoration, from 24/7 emergency response and direct billing with your insurance to warranties and guarantees on all of our quality workmanship.
At Phoenix Restoration & Phoenix Construction, our process for handling water damage is meticulous, going beyond mere cleanup. It involves:
- Extracting water and sewage.
- Thorough cleaning, drying, and ventilating affected areas.
- Deodorizing and disinfecting to ensure a healthy environment.
- Structural drying to safeguard the building’s integrity.
- Mold inspection, removal, and remediation.
- Repairs and reconstruction as needed.
Trust the Experts at Phoenix Construction for Your Water Damage Restoration Needs
The team of professionals at Phoenix Construction have a wealth of knowledge in dealing with water damage repairs, insights gained from our more than 100 combined years of helping Oklahomans recover from disasters and home debacles. Our team is dedicated to providing the exceptional service you deserve when you need it most, drawing on years of experience and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Our focus goes beyond fixing the immediate issues—we also emphasize preventing future damage and ensuring the long-term stability of your property.
By choosing Phoenix Construction, you’re selecting a team that prioritizes your safety and satisfaction. Not only are we licensed, bonded, and insured, but we also understand how to navigate the nuances and complexities of insurance claims. We offer comprehensive solutions for all your water damage restoration requirements and a two-year warranty on all of our work. Reach out to us today for expert help in restoring your property from water damage and safeguarding it for the future.