That's how neighbors should treat neighbors!™

330-262-4100 Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
When water infiltrates your home and causes damage, it is essential to address the problem immediately, or else!

Preventing And Dealing With Water Damage

Posted: August 23, 2018 by Andy

We're headed into the rainy season once again, and "you have water damage" is one of the scariest things a homeowner can hear. You know what that entails, but few know exactly what caused the damage, unless you've had the misfortune of experiencing a severe storm, leaky rook, or a burst pipe. Likewise, you may not know how much it'll cost to fix the damage, how to replace damaged floors, walls, and insulation and finally, how to ensure that it never happens again.

Here's everything you'll need to know about water damage inside your home, including some of the most common causes, the cost to repair and a few safety tips.

Fix it fast

If you take one piece of advice away from reading this article, it's that you must remove the water and fix the damage as soon as possible. The longer you wait to deal with water damage, the worse the overall damage will become. Unlike fires (which you can put out), water will continue to flow throughout your home, soaking into your walls and floors until it's completely removed. It leaves a variety of complicated repairs to be made.

An expert restoration company will remove any standing water using various pumps, water suction tools, and high-powered fans. They may cut into walls and insulation to see how far the damage goes. Additionally, an electrician may have to cut wires and repair electric lines in your home.

Besides, if you don't call a pro right away, mold could grow, causing health problems and greatly increasing your water restoration expense.

Water damage repair costs

Depending on the amount of damage, and due to the potential health issues (mold), repairing water damage is usually not cheap. Also, more often than not, removing the water and repairing the damage typically involves two separate expenses. According to disaster recovery cost estimates, it averages just over $2,000 to eliminate standing water and $1,800 to repair a water-damaged home.

Causes of water damage

Many issues can cause water damage, and it aids in prevention to be aware of them. They include:

  • Flooding
  • Burst/frozen pipes
  • Roof leaks
  • A failed bathtub or toilet seal
  • Broken sump pump
  • A blocked drainage pipe
  • Failed gutters and downspouts
  • Foundation issues
  • Improper grading
  • A broken irrigation system
  • Human error (leaving a faucet running, for example)
Removing standing water

The water-removal process mainly depends on the cause. If a storm caused the flooding, you'll probably have to wait until the water recedes from around your home. If it was due to a pipe, a plumber would need to get to work right away. Expect to pay overtime fees if the issue occurs during non-business hours.

Many homeowners prefer to tackle projects themselves, but removing standing water is far from a safe activity. Aside from the risk of mold and further damage to your home, hidden hazards such as rats, live electricity and other dangers make water removal and damage repair a project best left to trained - and properly equipped - professionals.

The water restoration process

Naturally, the first step in repairing water damage is to remove all standing water. More likely than not, this will require a pump and the other tools mentioned above to remove water from a flooded basement, inside a wall or elsewhere in your home. Once all of the water is removed, specialized equipment will dry the damp areas as quickly as possible. This helps prevent mold growth, which forms quickly after the initial damage.

Once the area is completely dry, the restoration company will check all walls to see the extent of the damage. You'll probably need to replace at least some of the drywall and insulation.

Finally, the pros will check for foundation damage to ensure that the water didn't affect the structural integrity of your home. In all but the most extreme cases, foundation damage won't be an issue.

Preventing water damage

Sometimes, there's just nothing you can do to prevent water damage, such as historically-severe storms or a failed sump pump. Fortunately, though, there are precautionary steps you can take to substantially reduce the odds of water damage occurring. Here are some suggestions:

  • Free gutters of debris
  • Check for foundation cracks and seal them
  • Position downspouts away from the foundation
  • Install window well covers
  • Wrap exposed pipes to keep them from freezing
  • Let cold water drip from the faucet occasionally
  • Check your roof periodically
  • Regularly check your HVAC system and water heater

If any of the above tasks cause concern, be sure to call a pro right away. A visit from a pro could save you thousands.

Once you know how to prevent water damage and learn the steps that pros take once it has happened, you can rest easy knowing that you can handle the situation as well as anyone. The key - as we mentioned above - is to always remember that the longer you wait to deal with water damage, the worse the consequences will be. Therefore, it's essential to call a restoration company as soon as possible.

 


more great articles...

Preventative Maintenance Is A Savvy Move   |   Is A Whole-House Humidifier Right For Me?

The Best New Year's Resolution   |   A Neighborly Guide to Furnaces

Maximize Your HVAC Tax Credits   |   Why Natural Gas Furnaces Trump Electric Ones

Why Background Checks And Drug Testing Matter   |   Why Is My Filter Wet?

Smoke and CO Detector Best Practices   |   Banishing Humidity Woes

Beware the Dog Days of Summer!   |   The R22 Phase-Out And The Importance Of AC Maintenance

Smart Thermostat Best Practices   |   Severe Weather Can Harm Your AC

Dirty Ductwork Dilemmas   |   Handling Household Emergencies

Why Isn't My AC Working?   |   SEER2 101

Better HVAC = Higher Home Value   |   My AC Sounds Like Running Water

Beware Animal Hair!   |   Air Purifier Q&A

How To Set Your AC When You're Away   |   Save Money This Summer

My AC Won't Turn On!   |   The Benefits Of A Central AC System

8 Handy Spring Cleaning Tips   |   Can I Finance An HVAC System?

My Furnace Won't Turn Off!   |   Before You Buy A Smart Thermostat

How Much Insulation Do I Need?   |   How The Inflation Reduction Act Can Help You

HVAC Basics For New Homeowners   |   5 Common Winter HVAC Problems

Programmable Thermostats 101   |   Can A Furnace Catch Fire?

Staying Warm During Extremely Cold Weather   |   Is A Heat Pump Right For Me?

Is My Heater Broken?   |   Let's Talk About Carbon Monoxide

HVAC: Why It's A Great Career   |   Winter Storm Safety Tips

4 Tasks For The Pros & 3 To DIY   |   When Should I Replace My HVAC System?

How Does a Gas Furnace Work?   |   6 Things To Know About Smart Thermostats

Do I Need A Humidifier?   |   These Mistakes Will Spike Your Energy Bill

How Long Will My Furnace Last?   |   All About Furnace Tune-Ups

How Does HVAC Zoning Work?   |   That Dirty Filter Is Costing You Money!

Thermostat Best Practices: Fan ON or AUTO?   |   Choosing The Right HVAC Equipment

10 Things To Do Before Using Your Furnace   |   What Affects Air Conditioning Efficiency?

Is Air Quality Worse In The Summer?   |   Keeping Your Upstairs Comfortable

The Dog Days Of Summer   |   Help! My AC Is Leaking Refrigerant!

Summer Furnace Upgrades Are Ideal   |   4 Common AC Buying Mistakes

Remove Those Hot Spots!   |   Older ACs Can Be Health And Safety Hazards

Prepping Your AC For Summer   |   Help! My AC Is Leaking Water!

A Bigger AC Isn't Necessarily Better   |   Landscaping Best Practices Around Your AC Unit

How Old Is My Central AC System?   |   Whole-House Dehumidifiers Vs. Portable Units

Air Scrubbers And Why You Need Them   |   Why Is My Home's AC Not Running?

Turn On Your AC After Winter The Right Way   |   Stop Those Pesky Air Leaks!

Why Spring HVAC Maintenance Is Important   |   Copper AC Coils vs. Aluminum

Your Thermostat Can Save You Money   |   6 Furnace Safety Features

Change Your Thermostat Batteries Yearly   |   Super Bowl Party Tips

How Your Gas Furnace Works   |   Winter Heating Safety Risks

Help! What's This Blinking Light Mean?   |   HVAC Maintenance Goals

New Year, New AC!   |   New Year's HVAC Resolutions

The 12 Days Of Safety   |   7 Signs You Need A New Furnace

Trane Comfort Specialist - What It Means   |   Optimal Winter Thermostat Settings

Ideal Humidity = Ideal Comfort   |   Avoid Cold Spots In Your Home

Save Money This Winter   |   Beware Of HVAC Systems That Go Bump In The Night!

Is My Water Heater Dying?   |   5 Reasons To Upgrade Your Thermostat

Debunking 7 Common Radon Myths   |   It's Annual Furnace Tune-Up Time!

HVAC Tips For Pet Owners   |   Fall HVAC Preparation Checklist

Back-To-School HVAC Maintenance   |   Let's Talk About Air Filters

How Does Central Air Conditioning Work?   |   Air Cleaners vs. Air Filters

4 Signs It's Time For A New AC   |   Exploring Your Central AC System

AC Repairs - Least & Most Expensive   |   Air Conditioning's Top 10 Benefits

Does My Water Heater Need Repaired Or Replaced?   |   Protect Your AC Condenser From Bad Weather

Air Purifiers 101   |   3 Factors That Affect AC Efficiency

Don't Let Mold Harm Your Home And Your Health   |   What Type Of Furnace Is Right For Me?

Add UV Lighting For Your Family's Health   |   Stop Wasting Energy!

Here's 5 Great Home Makeover Ideas For The New Year   |   New HVAC System On Your Christmas List?

5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Winter   |   Let's Talk About Your Leaky Ductwork

Please Don't Cover Up Your Thermostat   |   Tame These HVAC Scares This Halloween

What Do All These Letters Mean?   |   6 Easy, Affordable Ways To Boost Your Home's Value

Low Temperature = Quality Sleep   |   What Does HVAC Mean, And What Does It Stand For?

My AC Runs But Isn't Cold - What's Up?   |   Is Your AC Prepared For Summer's Thunderstorms?

Something's Wrong With My AC!   |   How Can I Afford A New Cooling System?

5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Summer   |   The Problem With A Clogged Filter

5 AC Myths That Are Costing You Money   |   My Air Conditioner Smells Gross!

6 Signs It's Time For A New AC   |   5 Easy DIY Projects While You're Social Distancing

Choosing The Right Thermostat   |   What Does SEER Mean?

5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Spring   |   Improve Your Winter Air Quality

The R-22 Ban: Do I Need To Replace My AC?   |   8 New Year's Resolutions For Your Family's Comfort

Using Your Programmable Thermostat Well   |   I Need A Quieter Furnace!

Know The Signs Of A Cracked Heat Exchanger   |   Carbon Monoxide FAQ

What's The Best Air Filter For My Allergies?   |   14 Easy Ways To Winterize Your Home

What's Up With My Weird Thermostat?   |   A Yearly Furnace Tune-Up Is Essential - Here's Why

Window AC Units Can Be Dangerous!   |   Prevent Summer Weather From Damaging Your Home

Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?   |   Keeping Cool In Hot Weather

Is It Time To Replace My AC?   |   Central Air Is The Best Cooling Option

Is An HVAC Tune-Up Really Worth It?   |   Does My Air Conditioner Need Repaired?

How To Reduce Dust In Your Home   |   The Importance Of Annual AC Tune-Ups

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality   |   Reduce Allergens In Your Home

Warmer Weather And Your Thermostat   |   Prepare Your AC For The Season

Time To Replace Your Furnace?   |   Handling Extreme Cold Well

Home Insulation Saves You Money   |   Humidity Isn't Just A Summer Issue

My Furnace Won't Stay On!   |   How Long Should My HVAC Equipment Last?

Tricks To Stay Warm This Winter   |   Winterize Your HVAC System

Don't Close Those Vents!   |   Phew! Furnace Smells You Shouldn't Ignore

Leave Furnace Repair And Installs To Us   |   Preventative Maintenance Matters

4 Important Tasks Before You Use Your Furnace   |   Prepare Your Home For Fall And Winter

Caulk And Seal Like A Pro!   |   Dealing With Extreme Heat

Don't Neglect Your Furnace In The Summer!   |   Preventing And Dealing With Water Damage

Why You Should Test Your Air Quality   |   Smart HVAC Technology For Your Home

Keep Your Vents Clean And Stylish   |   Save Money With A Home Energy Audit

Why Is My AC System Blowing Warm Air?   |   Reduce Humidity To Stay Cool

Summer Energy-Saving Tips   |   Create An Allergy-Free Home

Is My Air Conditioner Low On Refrigerant?   |   4 Essential HVAC Safety Tips

16 Easy Spring Tasks To Save You Money   |   My Air Conditioner Is So Noisy!

5 Ways To Stay Cool This Summer   |   4 Common AC Problems

Spring Cleaning Checklist   |   The Importance Of A Clean AC Condenser Coil

Improve Your Home's Indoor Air Quality   |   Prepare Your Cooling System For Summer

Why Is This Room Warmer Than The Rest Of My Home?   |   Retire Your Old Thermostat

About Our Blog

Containing the most current and easy-to-read expert information in the world of heating and cooling, our blog is intended to help you stay "in the know" and make the best decisions when it comes to keeping your home and family comfortable and your HVAC system trouble-free. That's how neighbors should treat neighbors!™

Recent Posts

Why Choose Hey Neighbor?

We're committed to providing fast friendly emergency service 24 hours a day 7 days a week for residential heating and air conditioning systems in Wooster, Millersburg and the surrounding areas.

Our 24-hour emergency on-call service means you'll never have to go through another cold winter night or a hot, humid summer day. We service residents of Wayne and Holmes counties with no after-hours or overtime fees, so you'll never have to worry about paying extra because your furnace or air conditioner decided it wanted to quit on the weekend or a holiday!

Our service trucks are ready for your emergency after-hours service call with over 5000 stocked parts so you don't have to wait for us to chase down the parts you need.

Expert Local Service

Furnace and AC Repair

Furnace and AC Repair

Fast and done right the first time

We'll keep your Wayne County furnace running smoothly, and we service gas and electric heaters, heat pumps, ductless mini-split systems and more. Our local, licensed, friendly HVAC technicians drive fully-stocked service vans so when we troubleshoot your Holmes County HVAC system and find a faulty part, we can replace it right then! Whatever you need in the area of heating and cooling repair in Wooster, Millersburg, and the surrounding areas, we've got you covered!

Installs and Upgrades

Installs and Upgrades

The right system for your home

Whether you're a homeowner in Rittman who's in the market for a new, high-efficiency furnace, a mobile home owner in Shreve who's tired of baking in the summertime or you're a property manager in Dalton looking to replace old, temperamental air conditioning systems in apartments with new reliable units, our experience enables us to quickly and accurately assess your HVAC needs. You'll get the new furnace install and central air conditioning upgrade that's right for you.

System Maintenance

System Maintenance

Protect your investment

While we don't mind visiting your home for a dead-of-winter breakdown (it's what we do), we want to help you avoid that unfortunate situation altogether. That's why we offer affordable Wayne and Holmes County seasonal HVAC maintenance to reduce the future need for heating and cooling repairs. Our thorough inspections catch little problems before they become big ones. An annual HVAC tune-up by one of our expert techs saves you money, time, and stress!

Latest HVAC Articles

Don't neglect your HVAC system investment - enroll in our Preventative Maintenance Program today and protect it year-round!
Feb 26, 2024

Preventative Maintenance Is A Savvy Move

Are you ready to keep your cool (or stay cozy warm) all year round? Well, listen up, because we've got some insider tips on how to make that happen hassle-free. Let's talk about HVAC... more...

Our comfort experts explain why these therapeutic devices can greatly enhance your family's health and well-being.
Jan 29, 2024

Is A Whole-House Humidifier Right For Me?

If you're wondering whether or not a whole-house humidifier is the missing piece to your cozy home puzzle, you've come to the right place. Today, let's embark on a journey to explore... more...

Let's talk about why upgrading to a new, high-efficiency HVAC system is the best new year's resolution!
Dec 26, 2023

The Best New Year's Resolution

As we bid farewell to the old and usher in the new, it's time to consider a resolution that not only promises year-round comfort but also puts more green in your pocket. Imagine a... more...

Schedule service

Communities We Serve

Wayne County, Ohio ~ Apple Creek, Ohio 44606 ~ Armstrong, Ohio 44214 ~ Burbank, Ohio 44214 ~ Burton City, Ohio 44667 ~ Congress, Ohio 44287 ~ Craigton, Ohio 44676 ~ Creston, Ohio 44217 ~ Dalton, Ohio 44618 ~ Doylestown, Ohio 44230 ~ Easton, Ohio 44270 ~ Fredericksburg, Ohio 44627 ~ Funk, Ohio 44691 ~ Kidron, Ohio 44636 ~ Lattasburg, Ohio 44287 ~ Marshallville, Ohio 44645 ~ Mount Eaton, Ohio 44569 ~ Orrville, Ohio 44667 ~ Pleasant Home, Ohio 44287 ~ Riceland, Ohio 44667 ~ Rittman, Ohio 44270 ~ Shreve, Ohio 44676 ~ Smithville, Ohio 44677 ~ Sterling, Ohio 44276 ~ West Salem, Ohio 44287 ~ Wooster, Ohio 44691 ~ and more!

Holmes County, Ohio ~ Baltic, Ohio 43804 ~ Becks Mills, Ohio 44654 ~ Berlin, Ohio 44654 ~ Charm, Ohio 44654 ~ Farmerstown, Ohio 43804 ~ Glenmont, Ohio 44628 ~ Holmesville, Ohio 44633 ~ Killbuck, Ohio 44637 ~ Lakeville, Ohio 44638 ~ Millersburg, Ohio 44654 ~ Mount Hope, Ohio 44627 ~ Nashville, Ohio 44611 ~ Saltillo, Ohio 44654 ~ Stillwell, Ohio 44637 ~ Trail, Ohio 44624 ~ Walnut Creek, Ohio 44681 ~ Winesburg, Ohio 44624 ~ and more!