Blog

Bathrooms are one of the most common areas to suffer from repeated water abuse and have a high risk for water damage, but the cost and damage can be cut down with a few easy steps on how to handle water damage.

The very first thing that should be obvious is to find the water shut off valve and turn it off to prevent further damage if you’re suffering broken pipes. There should be a handle on the toilet if that is the source of the leak, otherwise, you will have to find the shut-off valve for the entire house. Removing the water is something you will have to address immediately before mold can set in; shop vacs, towels, even a shovel, and bucket are all helpful if the water is excessive.

A more thorough drying is required after the still water is removed by wiping down the walls, paneling, and fixtures. Mold is a serious risk so it is important to do this as quickly and thoroughly as possible and finish ventilating by opening windows, turning on fans and getting as much airflow in the area as you can. While waiting for the area to dry, you may use the time to launder rugs, towels or other fabrics before they start to mildew.

If there is any dirt or debris after the area’s dry, be sure to use one-time-use rags, industrial bags, gloves and boots to clean before sanitizing. Once the hubris is gone, make sure that you have proper ventilation in the room and use a mixture of bleach and water to go over every surface (floors, walls, ceiling, and fixtures) to completely sanitize. Once fumes are gone, you may thoroughly clean the bathroom with regular bathroom cleaners and go through the room with special attention to any wood and anything touching the floor. After you’ve completed these steps, if you have any question about mold developing or start to see signs, immediately call a water damage expert to check the area professionally.