Water can be very invasive because it will seep into any crack or hole it can find. When snow is melting in the winter or when we get heavy rain in the spring and summer water damage can happen to anyone’s home or office. As a cleaning company in Westchester County New York we have cleaned up after multiple hurricanes and snow storms just over the past year. Dealing with water damage can be difficult. Here are six steps to follow in case you have water damage.

Step 1: Identify the category of water that has caused the damage. Snow and rain water generally can be classified as Category 2 water damage. Category 2 water contains bacteria and after several days mold has already begun developing.

Step 2: Remove wet carpet and padding. Once the carpet and padding get damaged you must remove the carpet and padding because mold and contaminants will start to grow if not removed. This will also help the building structure dry out faster.

Step 3:  Remove baseboards or vinyl cove base, and then cut sheet rock 2′ from the floor. Water will be absorbed into the sheet rock making it weak.  Removing baseboards and sheet rock you will prevent structural damage and reduce mold build-up.

Step 4: Structural Wood should be dried as soon as possible to prevent rot. You can use equipment such as fans and dehumidifiers to help dry the structural wood. Opening windows will also speed up the drying process.

Step 5:  Fans should not be used to dry areas where mold and mildew are present. Spores will be blown around and will contaminate your building. Dehumidifiers and heat should be used to dry areas with mold and mildew along with the use of Mildewcides.

Step 6: HVAC systems circulate air which people breathe. The HVAC system in your office should be turned off and inspected for water damage so contaminants don’t pollute the air.

We hope these tips help incase water damage happens to your home or office. If you have an emergency please call us 914-666-7229.