Orlando’s humid, rainy climate makes water intrusion a fairly common problem. Additionally, the large number of aging structures, combined with tropical storm threats, leave many local buildings vulnerable. Some of the most prevalent causes of water damage include:
- Heavy rainstorms and hurricanes dump rain that seeps into basements, crawl spaces, and attics
- Clogged roof drains and gutters overflowing from heavy rainfall
- Plumbing leaks from old pipes and failing appliances like dishwashers or water heaters
- Broken supply lines causing flooding in walls/ceilings
- Sewer and drain back-ups sending dirty water back through pipes
Regardless of the cause, swift action is necessary to dry out the structure, stop mold growth, and make needed repairs. Ignoring the issue or delaying restoration risks structural instability, indoor air quality issues, and very costly reconstruction down the road.
Step by step water restoration process
Ideally, contact a DamageControl of Orlando to handle the restoration process for you. Reputable companies follow established industry standards using high-powered drying equipment, antimicrobial treatments, structural repairs, and contents cleaning. Generally, the complete water restoration process involves:
- Immediate Response – When flooding occurs, immediately cut power to affected areas and call for professional water extraction. The faster excess moisture is removed, the less damage. Response within 24-48 hours is best.
- Assessment & Planning – A thorough inspection and moisture readings of walls/floors establish drying goals. A strategic drying plan is created identifying equipment and methods for each affected area.
- Water Extraction & Drying – Truck-mounted vacuum systems extract standing water, and then dehumidifiers and air movers dry out the remaining moisture. Drying times range from days to weeks depending on severity.
- Sanitizing & Deodorizing – After drying goals are met, antimicrobial treatments are applied and ozone generators deodorize to control bacteria and mold growth. Air scrubbers filter air.
- Structural Repairs – Once restored to pre-loss moisture levels, construction repairs commence. It involves replacing drywall, floorings, cabinets, etc. Work is completed according to local building codes.
- Contents Cleaning – Depending on contamination levels, contents require specialized cleaning using proper equipment and techniques for each material. Soft contents are discardable if permeated by sewage.
- Verification & Completion – Moisture readings are taken to verify drying meets industry standards. Any necessary re-cleaning or added drying is performed until the structure is deemed ready for occupancy.
Tips to prevent water damage
While restoration repair flood damage, prevention is ideal. Here are some useful tips for Orlando homeowners and business owners:
- Inspect exterior building envelope for cracks/leak points and re-seal as needed with waterproof caulking.
- Clean gutters and drainage systems before the rainy season; install gutter guards.
- Slope soil/pavers near the foundation away from the structure.
- Update outdated plumbing; install leak detection systems.
- Inspect water heater, appliances, and toilet for leaks.
- Keep the air conditioning condensation line clean.
- Check attic and crawl spaces for leaks after heavy rains.
- Trim back vegetation from exterior walls by at least 2 feet.
Swiftly addressing any moisture issues you discover limits potential water damage and costly, disruptive restorations down the road.
