Pinellas County Water Damage Expert’s Inside Look at the Restoration Process
Water damage can happen to any home at any time – especially in Gulfport, Florida, where heavy rainstorms and hurricanes are common.
With a natural disaster risk of 47%, Pinellas County is no stranger to water-related emergencies. Whether it’s a flooded basement during a hurricane, a random burst pipe, or a leaky roof in the rainy season, dealing with water damage can be overwhelming and stressful.
But you don’t have to face the aftermath of water damage alone. Hiring a professional water restoration company can help alleviate some of the stress and ensure that your home is restored to its pre-damaged state as quickly as possible.
Additionally, Pinellas County has stated that flood insurance premium discounts have increased from 35% to 40% in 2024, providing millions of dollars in savings to residents. At Drico Restoration, we’re committed to helping you find the most cost-effective, strategic solutions to handling water damage.
So, what does the water damage restoration process entail? Let’s talk about it.
1. Assessment, Inspection, & Containment
The first step in the water damage restoration process is to assess and inspect the extent of the damage. This involves thoroughly examining all affected areas, including walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture. The goal is to identify the source of water damage and determine how far it has spread.
During the assessment and inspection process, the water damage restoration specialist will also take note of any safety hazards or potential risks that may need to be addressed. This could include issues with the electrical or plumbing systems and possible mold growth. It’s crucial to address these safety concerns before beginning any restoration work.
Once the assessment and inspection are complete, the restoration company will provide a detailed report of their findings, including containment strategies for the damaged area and recommendations for the restoration process. This will also include an estimate of the water damage restoration costs and the timeline for completion.
According to Angi, the average water damage restoration costs in Pinellas County range from around $1,962 – $5,666, depending on the circumstances and the water damage class. To learn what your restoration project will cost, request a quote as quickly as possible.
2. Water Extraction
After the initial assessment, the next step is to extract any standing water from the affected area. This is a crucial part of the restoration process as it helps to prevent further damage and minimize potential health hazards from mold and contaminated water.
There are several methods that can be used by a water damage restoration professional, including:
- Buckets and Mops: In smaller affected areas, buckets and mops can be used to manually remove excess water. This method is typically used for minor water damage situations.
- Submersible Pumps: These powerful pumps can quickly remove large amounts of water. They are typically used for more severe cases of flooding or standing water.
- Wet/Dry Vacuums: These vacuums are designed specifically for extracting water and can be used in smaller areas or for spot cleaning. They are also useful for removing excess water from carpets and upholstery.
The restoration company will determine the best method for water extraction based on the extent of the damage and the type of affected materials. They will also ensure that all safety precautions are taken, such as wearing protective gear and using proper disinfectants to prevent contamination.
3. Drying & Dehumidification
Once the water is extracted, restoration companies will use specialized equipment, such as dehumidifiers and air movers, to dry out the affected area. This step is crucial in preventing mold and mildew growth, which can lead to further damage and potential health hazards.
Considering that Pinellas County has an average humidity level of about 70%, this is an especially critical step in our warm, moist environment.
Dehumidifiers work by pulling excess moisture from the air, while air movers circulate dry air throughout the space. The restoration team will also use moisture meters to determine the level of humidity in the affected area and monitor the drying process.
Depending on the severity of the water damage, this step can take several days to complete. It is important not to rush this step as it can lead to further issues down the line if moisture is not properly removed.
Although you can purchase a dehumidifier on your own, chances are, you’ll need an industrial-level machine that can handle more than your average appliance. As Consumer Reports states, you’ll need a large-capacity dehumidifier to deal with the wettest situations – and professional restoration services will provide that.
4. Cleaning & Sanitizing
The next step in the water damage restoration process is cleaning and sanitization. Even after the affected area is dried out, there can still be lingering bacteria and contaminants that need to be addressed.
The water damage restoration team will use specialized cleaning products and techniques to disinfect all affected surfaces. This not only removes any remaining bacteria but also helps to eliminate odors that may have developed due to water exposure.
In addition to cleaning, an antimicrobial treatment may be applied to prevent mold and mildew growth. This is especially important in areas where moisture levels are high and there is a risk of future mold growth. According to the Federal Management Agency, mold growth can happen in as little as 24 hours, especially in humid environments like Florida.
The treatment helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, reducing the potential for health hazards and further damage.
5. Restoration & Repairs
After the affected area has been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, the next step is restoration and repairs. This involves fixing any structural damage that may have occurred due to the water exposure. It can also include replacing drywall, flooring, or other materials that need extensive repairs.
In addition to structural repairs, the restoration team may also need to address any cosmetic damage. This can include repainting walls or replacing damaged fixtures and furnishings.
Small fixes, such as replacing bathroom fixtures, can cost as little as $150. However, Home Advisor states that more extensive repairs to plumbing systems, roofs, ceilings, and basements can easily cost thousands of dollars.
Ultimately, the goal is to restore the area to its pre-damaged condition as closely as possible.
6. Monitoring & Maintenance Follow-Up
Once the restoration and repairs are complete, the water damage restoration team will continue to monitor the area for any signs of moisture or mold growth. This is important to ensure that the affected area has been properly remediated and there is no risk of future damage.
In some cases, additional drying equipment may be left in place for a period of time to ensure that all excess moisture has been removed. Your Florida restoration team will also conduct follow-up visits to ensure that the area remains dry and free of any mold or bacteria growth.
Property owners in Gulf Port and the surrounding areas should fully address water damage promptly, as it can lead to more serious issues if left untreated. In addition, proper water damage restoration can help prevent future problems and protect the health and safety of those living or working in the affected area.
Conclusion
As you can see, water damage restoration is a complex and multi-step process that requires the expertise of trained professionals. It is important to act quickly and seek professional help when dealing with water damage in order to minimize potential health risks and further property damage.
Even if you haven’t experienced water damage, Pinellas County is at major risk for flooding, and it never hurts to be prepared. In fact, it’s estimated that over 156,000 properties in the area are at risk of flooding in the next 30 years. That’s nearly half of the properties in the county!
Get Professional Water Damage Help Today
At Drico Restoration, we have a team of experienced and certified technicians who are equipped to handle all types of water damage situations. Our goal is to efficiently and effectively restore your property back to its pre-damaged condition as quickly as possible.
Contact us today for all your water damage restoration needs. Don’t wait until it’s too late – let us help you restore your property and peace of mind.
Published: May 7, 2024
Updated: October 11, 2024
