Water Damage Cleanup

Assessing and Dealing with Specific Damage

What to Do About Water Damage in Walls?

Assessment

Inspect walls for signs of water damage, such as discoloration, bubbling paint, or cracks. Determine the source of the water and stop it if possible.

Action

1. Remove Standing Water:

• Use a wet/dry vacuum or pump to remove any standing water from the baseboards and floors.

2. Dry Affected Areas:

• Open windows and doors for ventilation.
• Use fans to circulate air and speed up drying.
• Place dehumidifiers in the area to extract moisture from the air.

3. Remove Wet Materials:

• Remove drywall, insulation, and other materials that have become saturated with water.
• Dispose of damaged materials properly.

4. Treat for Mold:

• Apply a bleach solution or other mold-killing agent to prevent mold growth.
• Allow the area to dry completely before replacing materials.

5. Repair and Restore:

• Install new drywall, insulation, and other materials as needed.
• Refinish walls with paint or wallpaper.

Additional Tips

• Act quickly to prevent further damage.
• Contact a professional if the damage is severe or extensive.
• Document the damage for insurance purposes.