Water damage questions, straight answers
34 answers. Water coming in now? Call (844) 990-0433.
First steps
What should I do first when there's water damage?Stop the water at the main shutoff, make the area safe (power off to wet rooms if you can reach the panel…How do I shut off the water to my house?Find the main shutoff valve, usually where the water line enters the house: basement front wall, garage, near…Is it safe to walk in water in my house?Not if the water could reach outlets, cords, appliances or the panel. Keep out until power to that area is…Should I turn off the electricity after a leak?Turn off breakers for wet rooms if the panel is in a dry spot and you're standing on a dry floor. If the…Should I take photos of water damage before cleanup?Yes. Photos and video of the water, the source and damaged items are useful for your records and for anyone…Can I clean up water damage myself?A small, clean spill caught right away, yes. Water that soaked into carpet, walls or floors, came from…
Damage and drying
How long does water damage take to dry?With air movers and dehumidifiers, drying often takes several days. It depends on how much water, what got…How fast does water damage get worse?Within the first hour water spreads and soaks into floors and drywall. Within a day materials swell and…Can wet drywall be saved?Drywall wet with clean water and dried quickly can sometimes stay. Drywall that's soft, crumbling, sagging…Can wet carpet be saved?Carpet soaked with clean water and dried within a day or two can sometimes be saved; the pad underneath often…Will hardwood floors recover from water damage?Mild cupping can flatten with proper drying. Boards that crown, buckle or stay wet too long may need to be…What are the signs of water damage?Stains on ceilings or walls, peeling or bubbling paint, warped or soft floors, a musty smell, damp spots, and…Why does my house smell musty after a leak?A musty smell usually means materials are still wet or mold has started. It's a sign the area needs proper…What should I do if my ceiling is bulging with water?Keep everyone out from under it, move belongings, turn off power to that room, put a bucket and tarp under…How do I know if there's water under my floor?Signs include cupping or lifting boards, soft spots, tiles coming loose, and a musty smell. Pros use moisture…
Leaks and sources
What causes pipes to burst?Freezing is the most common cause, plus high water pressure, corrosion in older pipes, and failed fittings or…Why is my water heater leaking from the bottom?Water at the bottom can come from the drain valve, the relief valve's discharge pipe, condensation, or a tank…Why is water leaking through the ceiling under my bathroom?Common causes are a failed toilet wax ring, a leaking shower pan or grout, a tub overflow gasket, or a supply…How often should washing machine hoses be replaced?Rubber fill hoses are a common cause of laundry floods. Many people replace them every few years or switch to…Why is my AC leaking water through the ceiling?Usually a clogged condensate drain line or a rusted drain pan under the indoor unit. Turn the system off and…Why does my basement get water after rain?Common reasons are gutters dumping water near the foundation, soil sloping toward the house, cracks in the…How do I find a hidden water leak?Turn off all water use and watch the meter. If it moves, there's a leak. Then look for stains, warped floors…Is toilet overflow water dangerous?Water from the tank is clean. Water from the bowl, especially with waste, is contaminated and should be…How do I know if my pipes are frozen?Little or no water from a faucet in freezing weather, frost on exposed pipes, or a strange smell from drains…
Mold risk
How soon can mold grow after water damage?Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours on wet materials, which is why the EPA advises drying…Does water damage always cause mold?No. Mold needs moisture and time. Drying materials quickly and properly is the most effective way to keep it…What are signs of mold after a leak?A musty smell, dark spots on walls or ceilings, discoloration that spreads, and allergy-like symptoms in the…Should I use bleach after water damage?Bleach doesn't fix materials that are still wet inside, and it should never be mixed with ammonia. Drying and…
Getting help
Who do I call for water damage?A water damage company handles water removal, drying and cleanup. A plumber fixes the pipe or appliance. Call…Do I need a plumber or a water damage company?Often both. The plumber stops and repairs the leak; the water damage company removes the water and dries the…What should I ask a water damage company?How they'll measure moisture, what will be removed and why, how long drying usually takes, whether they do…How fast can a water damage company come out?Often the same day. It depends on your area and how busy local companies are, especially after storms or…What happens when a water damage company arrives?They find the source, check how far moisture spread with meters, remove standing water, decide what has to…Do I need to move out during water damage drying?Usually not for a clean-water leak in one area. Sewage, widespread damage or lost kitchens and bathrooms may…
