What would you do when water damage strikes your home without notice? Like most homeowners, you might be inclined to think it’s more expensive to hire a water restoration company than a water mitigation company. If so, you may want to read on to find out the differences between these two services and decide which method may be needed for your specific situation.
Water Damage
Whenever water floods your home for any reason whatsoever, whether from fire damage or burst pipes, there is bound to be some property damage within your walls or ceiling, and it will likely lead to mold growth over time. This type of damage usually calls for one of two services: water restoration or water mitigation. Knowing what each entails will help you choose the best option for your needs.
Water Restoration vs. Water Mitigation
Although some people may use the terms “water restoration” and “water mitigation” interchangeably, those terms refer to different services performed following a water-related disaster. But what do we mean by these terms, and what is the difference between them?
Water Mitigation
Mitigation is the process of reducing the severity or seriousness of a phenomenon. Water mitigation refers to the process of draining standing water and preventing further damage.
Water Restoration
Restoration entails returning something or someone to its pre-existing, normal state. Water restoration refers to the process of repairing any damage done to the property, including but not limited to water infiltration, mold growth, and structural issues, as well as removing any dangerous contaminants.
So, Which One Comes First?
Both water damage restoration and water mitigation are important steps in overcoming just about any disaster. Water damage restoration is always performed after mitigation takes place.
Mitigation helps stabilize the affected home, ensuring that no further damage occurs. Afterward, damage restoration aims at repairing homes and helping them recover from the damage. It is intended to return the home to its pre-damaged condition.
Activities Entailed in Water Mitigation
The following actions can be performed during the water mitigation process:
- Checks on structure stability
- Extraction of water with vacuums and pumps
- Removal of water-damaged furniture
- Assessment of water damage type and level (whether black, clear, or gray water)
- Drying the property with commercial-grade fans
- Disinfection of the remaining materials
- Use of tarps to prevent further water damage
- If deemed necessary, the windows may be boarded up, and the property locked down
Activities Entailed in Water Damage Restoration
Restoration experts will perform the following actions during the water damage restoration process:
- The damaged roof is fixed
- Floor covering is pulled out and disposed of
- The subfloor is replaced or restored
- Water-damaged drywall is removed
- Mold remediation
- Damaged doors and windows are repaired
- Your home is dehumidified
- A moisture test is performed to ascertain that the property is completely dry
The Bottom Line
Both water restoration and water mitigation are important to homeowners affected by water damage. Water damage restoration aims at repairing the structure and restoring it to its original form, while water mitigation ensures that the damage does not get any worse.
Need Help?
Do not hesitate to contact us if you need a water restoration or mitigation service. Our restoration experts are always ready to take care of any water damage that may strike your home or business within the nearest time possible.
In addition, we offer 24/7 emergency service, so when you find yourself in this situation, it is possible to get immediate help without worrying about time.
