Water damage repair and restoration, Portland ME
Water damage is one of the most common problems that people experience in their homes. Water may come in from heavy rains through a leak in your roof, from appliance failures, such as washing machines, dishwashers or ice makers, or from major fire extinguishing efforts. And, most important to note, the longer the water sits over time, the worse the damage becomes. Immediately addressing water problems can often save hundreds of dollars in damage repair costs.
At Paul Davis Remodeling & Restoration Maine, we respond to water emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 52 weeks a year. We are highly trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in water damage restoration and we have a thorough knowledge of the categories and classes of water damage and how each of these factors impacts our response.
We use the latest technology and equipment in water extraction and restoration. Using proven science to identify the extent of the water damage and to verify drying results, we can further ensure that all materials are completely dry before we leave your home.
You want your home back to the condition it was in prior to the water damage. At Paul Davis Remodeling & Restoration Maine we know just how to do that.
What can you do?
There are some steps you can take before we arrive. However, always adhere to the recommendations of your fire department or other responding agencies as your health and safety are more important than your possessions. Please do not take any unnecessary risks, but time is critical in minimizing additional damages.
- Contact a qualified insurance restoration contractor. Keep in mind that many companies say that they are qualified in water damage restoration yet do not possess the appropriate training or equipment.
- Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most companies have a toll-free call center number or you can report the loss to your agent.
- If safe to do so, locate the source of the water and turn off any supply valves to stop the flow of water. If you must turn off your water, take steps to prevent your plumbing and/or heating supply pipes from freezing.
- Remember, water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and the risk of shock is imminent. Do not allow wet materials or surfaces to come in contact with any electrical source. Always shut off the power if there is any risk.
- Keep a listing of anything you have discarded and receipts for any expenses you incur in protecting your property.
- If you must relocate, even temporarily, give your insurance company a phone number where you can be reached.
The best way to deal with water damage is through prevention. Here are some tips to consider:
- Replace washing machine supply lines annually. Replace rubber hoses with stainless steel braided hoses.
- Periodically inspect your ice maker supply line behind your refrigerator. If the line is brittle or leaking, have it replaced.
- Inspect your water heater for corrosion and leakage.
- Clean out your gutters at least once a year. Properly flowing gutters and downspouts help prevent water backing up under shingles.
- Inspect your roof annually for leaks. Replace missing shingles or tiles. Check flashing installed between surfaces, including chimneys, vent stacks or dormers; they are often the most common sites for leaks.
- In colder climates, make sure you have plenty of attic insulation and plenty of attic ventilation. These help prevent the formation of ice dams which can cause water to back up under roof shingles.
- Always remove hoses from any outdoor spigots. Freeze-proof spigots only work when hoses are removed.
- Inspect plumbed rooms, such as the kitchen, laundry room and bath for leaks or signs of leakage in water supply and waste lines.
- Make sure that shower walls and floor are structurally sound and that grout and joints are well sealed and in good condition.
- Inspect commode water supply lines for leakage. Check to make sure the fixture is properly secured to the floor and does not shift or rock when weight is applied.
Inspect central air-conditioning systems annually for proper operation and drainage.
How can you help?
You’ve suffered a water loss, and you’ve done the right thing by trying to find out more information on how to deal with it. Here are some important things for you to know, so you can face your water loss more confidently:
- Water Source: If possible, stop the source of the water. Turn off your outside water main, or call a plumber or other qualified tradesman to stop the source of water flow. Contact your local utilities department if you can’t find how to turn off the water main.
- Electrical: Disconnect all power to affected areas. Do not operate your TVs or other electrical appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors (especially if concrete). Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water.
- Air Conditioning: Turn on your air conditioner (no lower than 72 degrees) to speed drying in the summer, or more humid regions.
- Ceilings: Punch small holes in sagging ceilings to relieve trapped water. Place a plastic (not metal) bucket under the leak. Do not turn on ceiling light fixtures or fan if the ceiling is wet.
- Floors: Remove as much standing water as possible by squeegee, mopping or blotting.
- Carpeting: Blot wet carpet with clean white towels. Remove Oriental rugs or other colored rugs from wet wall-to-wall carpet. Place a fan so air flows over the carpet, speeding the drying process.
- Clothing/Fabrics: Move wet items to a dry place. Do not allow draperies to remain in contact with wet floors or carpeting. Open and empty drawers and cabinets for complete drying. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
- Furniture: Move lighter pieces off of the carpeting. Place plastic wrap or plastic bags beneath the legs of larger furniture. Wipe any residual water off of the furniture.
- Art Objects/Paintings: Remove valuable painting and pictures from wet walls. Transfer all objects to a dry safe place.
- Upholstery: Remove and prop up wet upholstered cushions for even drying. Check for possible bleeding of colors.
- Luggage: Open suitcases and luggage to dry in sunlight if possible.
- Books/Magazines: Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors. High value books should be given to a professional for proper drying and restoration as soon as possible.