Water damage is the issue that makes your property look terrible, and it is the most unexpected thing that can happen to your property. Whether it is due to bursting of a burst pipe, heavy rain, or a leaking appliance, your house will be hit with water damage. It is required to take immediate action and understand what is involved in the restoration process. The highly anticipated question to ask at that time is, how long does water damage restoration take? Here we will break down everything you need to be aware of regarding the water damage restoration in Australia.
Table of Contents
What is Water Damage Restoration?
Water damage restoration is a process for drying, cleaning, repairing, and restoring the property after it is badly affected by water. The process includes the steps beyond just drying things out. When you are out for professional restoration then it will ensure that the building is safe, has no structural damage, or free from bacteria and mould. The main restoration services include:
- Drying and dehumidifying
- Water extraction
- Disinfecting and cleaning
- Assessment of damage
- Getting structure repair and rebuilding
The idea behind this is to keep the property restored its look to pre pre-damage condition effectively and quickly.
Why Is It Important To Take Steps Quickly?
When water damage is not well inspected or addressed quickly or effectively, then chances are higher that it will turn into long-term issues like:
- Mold growth, which generally starts developing in 24 to 48 hours
- Timber, plaster, and insulation near or over the structure get damaged
- Leads to electrical hazards
- Bacteria and contaminated water lead to high health risks
Making a quick response leaves you with less damage and keeps your property safe and at the lowest repair costs.
How Long Does Water Damage Restoration Take?
The time taken for water damage restoration is based on various factors, including:
Damage Extent
If your property has minor damage or affected a smaller area, like bathroom leaks, carpet patch or similar, then the possibility is that it will take around 1-3 days. A moderate damage where you have soaked walls or floors needs 3-7 days, as it may require some materials to be replaced or removed. If the property is hit with severe damage, like large flooding or severe water damage, then it may take several weeks. The areas must require many things to be removed, repaired with more extensive repairs, and longer time required or drying.
Types of Water
If you have water damage due to a burst pipe or rain, then it is clean water, which is quicker and easier to clean. If the property has grey water damage, which means it gets from washing machines or sinks, then it requires more time for drying or disinfection. Having sewage or floodwater means your property is hit with black water damage that needs to be addressed with high-scale decontamination and requires more time for restoration and taking the property back to its original condition.
Drying Time
Drying takes much more time. The time varies based on the different factors based as the humidity levels or the materials used for the walls. On an average it takes around 2 to 7 days. Getting professional work done become task easy and quick as they use the industrial fans, moisture meters and dehumidifiers to track down the progress.
Rebuilding and Repair
After everything is dry and then the focus is shifted to repairs and that includes replacement of floors if the damage have reached to that extend, repainting walls if the walls gets water marks or dirty or gets patches, reinstallation of plasterboards to get finish to the wall and fixing cabinetry which might be resolved for smooth work or needed to be replaced if damaged with water. All these steps require a few days to several weeks for completion based on the material, methods, and requirements of the work.
What to Expect During the Restoration Process?
Initial Inspection- When a professional will work, then a team of restoration specialists will assess the damage and prepare a custom plan. It will check the moisture readings and address the hidden damage if done.
Water Removal- The vacuums and pumps are used to remove water quickly so that it will not end up in further damage.
Drying and Dehumidifying- It is the most crucial step because even when the walls look dry, they may still hold moisture internally. So, complete drying is vital.
Cleaning and Disinfecting- Your carpets, furniture, and walls are clean and well-treated for the prevention of odour and mould buildup.
Repair and Restoration- Now, when the repairs are carried out for the restoration of property to its original condition can be done.
DIY or Professional Water Damage Restoration
Many people have a thought that handling water damage restoration is easy to do by themselves, but it is not recommended. If the work is not done properly, then the hidden mould and moisture lead to water damage or other issues. Going with certified professionals ensures the quality work is done as they are well equipped and make the restoration of property to avoid further issues. In Australia, professional follows the IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) standards for ensuring high-quality services.
Conclusion
Having water damage requires proper restoration, and contacting the experts at the time will help you make that change to the original condition. So, the question of how long water damage restoration takes is that minor cases can be resolved within a few days, while larger jobs require weeks to take the property back to its original condition. The idea for the quick work done is to take quick action for faster recovery. Innovare Builders are a leading name in Australia, ensuring you with the right response with the best defence against further complications and repairs.
