subject: Water Removal Techniques [print this page] Water Removal Techniques Water Removal Techniques
Okay, so we've secured your home, made sure it isn't going to come down around you, and gotten rid of all loose items and furniture in the water damaged area. Now the actual cleanup process can begin.
The first step will be to remove all of the excess water from the property. This is commonly known as water extraction, and is accomplished through the use of gas powered submersible pumps or wet-dry vacuum units. Which one you use depends of course on the depth and severity of the spill. Do not use electrical pumps for obvious reasons, and do not attempt to clean water with a regular vacuum cleaner; you'll only end up buying a new vacuum. Run the shop-vac unit across the carpet much as you would when vacuuming a floor. You'll know it is working because you will be able to hear the water being pulled through the vacuum nozzle.
Once the excess has been removed, surfaces will appear to be dry, but a touch will reveal that they are in fact still wet, and retaining a considerable amount of moisture. The only way to remove this water is through air circulation. Open all windows and doors to get air moving through the area. Use high velocity fans, blowers, air movers, and dehumidifiers to help the process along. Move the units around every few hours or so to ensure complete and total drying coverage. You will need to allow a minimum of two days for everything to be completely dried out.
Don't forget that water can get into places you may not think to look. Check out basements and crawlspaces for standing water and treat it appropriately. Remember that untreated water can provide a breeding environment for mold, and once you have a mold problem, your headaches have multiplied exponentially.
For more water removal tips....
Next time we'll look at taking care of water damage carpet and drywall. If you can't wait, download the "Water Damage Survival Guide", your one stop source for all things water damage.
