Understanding Water Damage Restoration and Mitigation
Water damage restoration encompasses a comprehensive suite of services aimed at mitigating the effects of water damage and restoring affected properties to their pre-damage condition. This process involves various techniques and protocols designed to:
- Extract standing water
- Control moisture levels
- Prevent further damage
- Restore damaged materials
Mitigation vs. Restoration: What’s the Difference?
While water damage restoration and mitigation are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct phases in the process of addressing water damage.
Mitigation
Mitigation measures are implemented immediately following water damage to prevent further deterioration of the property. These include:
- Stopping the source of water
- Extracting standing water
- Setting up temporary moisture control devices
Restoration
Restoration encompasses the long-term process of repairing and replacing damaged materials. This includes:
- Drying out the structure
- Removing and replacing damaged materials
- Repainting and refinishing surfaces
- Sanitizing and disinfecting the property
By understanding the difference between mitigation and restoration, property owners can ensure that appropriate steps are taken to address water damage effectively and efficiently.