What to Do About Water Damage in Walls

Water damage can be a devastating experience for homeowners. It can cause extensive damage to your property and belongings, and it can also pose a health hazard. If you experience water damage in your home, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and protect your family’s health.

Assessing Wall Damage

The first step in dealing with water damage in walls is to assess the extent of the damage. This can be done by removing any damaged drywall or other materials to expose the affected area. Once the damage is exposed, you can determine how extensive it is and what repairs will be necessary.

Dealing with Minor Damage

If the water damage is minor, you may be able to repair it yourself. Minor damage includes water damage that is less than 10 square feet in area and that has not caused any structural damage. To repair minor water damage, you can:

• Remove any damaged drywall or other materials.
• Dry out the affected area using a fan or dehumidifier.
• Repair any damaged framing or other structural components.
• Replace the damaged drywall or other materials.

Dealing with Major Damage

If the water damage is major, you should contact a professional water damage cleanup company. Major water damage includes water damage that is more than 10 square feet in area or that has caused structural damage. A professional water damage cleanup company can help you:

• Remove any damaged drywall or other materials.
• Dry out the affected area using commercial-grade fans and dehumidifiers.
• Repair any damaged framing or other structural components.
• Replace the damaged drywall or other materials.
• Restore your property to its pre-damage condition.

Preventing Future Damage

Once you have repaired the water damage in your walls, it’s important to take steps to prevent future damage. This can include:

• Installing a sump pump in your basement.
• Cleaning your gutters and downspouts regularly.
• Sealing any cracks or gaps in your foundation.
• Grading your lawn so that water flows away from your home.

By taking these steps, you can help protect your home from future water damage.