Boise Restoration Blog

How Do Professionals Determine the Extent of Water Damage?

13 Jun, 2024 | Return|

Discovering water damage in your property can be a stressful experience, whether it’s a flooded basement, a leaky roof, or an overflowing bathroom. For those in Boise who have discovered concerning levels of water damage, understanding how professionals assess the extent of damage can help you understand how urgent your situation is. The quicker you call in the professionals, the quicker restoration can begin and be effective at stopping water in its tracks.

Complete Restoration Services (CRS), a leading water damage restoration company in Boise, utilizes a blend of advanced tools and proven techniques to diagnose and address water-related issues accurately. This blog explains the process, helping home and commercial property owners in Boise comprehend what to expect when they call in the experts.

Tools and Techniques for Assessing Water Damage

The initial step in any water damage restoration process is a thorough assessment. Professionals at CRS use a variety of tools to accurately evaluate the extent of damage. Infrared cameras can detect water through walls, beneath floors, and other hidden areas without needing to make intrusive cuts or holes. Thermal imaging helps identify the moisture levels in various materials and pinpoint the areas that require focused attention.

Another necessary tool we use is the hygrometer, which measures the humidity levels in the air. High humidity can indicate ongoing moisture issues that are not immediately visible. Alongside these tools, professionals also use moisture meters that can detect and quantify moisture in walls and flooring. By combining these technologies, restoration experts can assess the water damage accurately and devise a targeted plan to mitigate and repair the damage effectively.

image of a softened ceiling due to water damage

Understanding the Classifications of Water Damage

Water damage is not a one-size-fits-all problem, and it’s classified into various types to guide the restoration process effectively. These classifications are based on the water source and its level of contamination. Class 1 damage involves clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans, and is generally the easiest to deal with. This type could come from broken water lines or sink overflows.

Class 2 damage involves "gray water," which contains significant contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed. Sources include washing machine overflow, toilet overflow with some urine but no feces, or dishwasher overflow. Class 3, the most severe, involves "black water," which is highly contaminated and can contain harmful pathogens and toxins. This type of water typically comes from sewage or natural disaster flooding.

The Role of Moisture Detectors in Restoration

Moisture detectors offer a lot of insight in identifying the exact locations of moisture buildup to ensure that no areas are left untreated. For complete restoration, detecting all moisture—visible or hidden—is necessary to prevent mold growth and structural damage. Moisture detectors help in mapping out the affected area and are vital in ensuring that the drying process is complete.

We use these detectors throughout the restoration process to monitor the progress of drying and to confirm that all materials return to acceptable drying goals. This use of technology ensures that after the physical signs of water damage have been addressed, there will be no lingering humidity that could potentially lead to further issues down the line.

image of professionals assessing water damage

Contact Complete Restoration Services for Commercial Water Damage Restoration

CRS offers thorough water damage cleanup for commercial businesses, including mold remediation, to protect your property and the health of its occupants. Preventing mold growth in commercial settings is a matter of property maintenance and a significant health consideration. Regular professional inspections, effective humidity control and ventilation, and quick responses to any signs of mold can save you time, money, and stress.

Complete Restoration Services is dedicated to assisting Boise businesses in maintaining safe, healthy environments through expert water damage restoration and mold prevention practices.

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