Ask any expert restoration specialist, and they’ll tell you a handful of water damage myths. Their experience has shown them how certain misconceptions can end up causing more harm than good. We’ll explain which myths are the most common and why you need to take them with a grain of salt.
Dry Carpet Means There’s Nothing Else to Worry About
There’s a chance the carpet feels dry while the carpet pad and subfloor underneath are still damp. If you don’t get all the flooring completely dry, the remaining moisture will eventually create the perfect conditions for mold growth and wood rot. This is why restoration specialists use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to develop a complete picture of how far the water has spread.
Opening the Windows Is Enough to Eliminate Water Damage
Opening doors and windows is one of the best things you can do for ventilating and drying a water-damaged area, but do this only when it isn’t muggy outside. During periods of high humidity, the moisture will seep inside through the openings, slowing the drying process and making the affected area even more humid. Restoration professionals usually suggest setting up dehumidifiers and commercial-grade air movers in addition to controlling the indoor airflow.
Bleach Gets Rid of All Mold
One of the worst parts of dealing with water damage is the mold it can create. Using bleach to kill the mold works great on tile, glass and metal, but it’s only useful on hard, nonporous surfaces. If you find mold on drywall, wood, carpet and other porous materials, you’ll need professional mold remediation because the mold can grow beneath the surface where bleach can’t reach it.
You Can Just Paint Over Water Stains
If you see a water stain on a wall, don’t just paint over it to make it look better. This may provide a temporary fix, but there’s a good chance the stain will reappear until you have the source of the problem fixed. Even worse, the moisture will continue damaging the surrounding drywall and framing.
Talking with a restoration expert is the best way to learn about water damage myths and how to avoid them. They’ll help you avoid making the damage worse while you’re already dealing with issues like replacing damaged flooring and filing an insurance claim. The experts have the tools and skills to spot hidden moisture before it results in damage that makes the home structurally unstable. You’ll receive a custom-tailored restoration plan that prioritizes the most important repairs first. When you need water extraction services in Hickory, NC, contact United Water Restoration Group of Hickory.