Steps to follow after a flood

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Immediate action is crucial when dealing with water damage. Below is a water damage timeline and possible water damage in your home or business untreated. 

Within Minutes 

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path. 
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. 
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets. 
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp. 

Hours 1 - 24: 

• Drywall begins to swell and break down. 
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish. 
• Furniture begins to swell and crack. 
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain. 
• A musty odor appears. 

48 Hours to 1 Week: 

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread. 
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp. 
• Metal begins to rust and corrode. 
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold. 
• Paint begins to blister. 
• Wood flooring swells and warps. 
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible. 

More Than 1 Week: 

• Restoration time and costs increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive. 
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants. 

Don’t wait. If you have water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of San Gabriel 626-478-0286