Water Damage Restoration: DIY vs. Professional Help – What’s Best?

Water damage can be one of the worst things that can happen to your home. Whether it’s a leaky roof, broken pipe, or flooding, the range of damage can be overwhelming. The extent of damage is not always immediately evident, and even what may seem like minor issues can be expensive if not fixed sooner than later. So my next question is: should you attempt the process yourself or hire a professional damage restoration service to restore the water damage? Let's look at both sides of the argument and determine if one side is really more effective than the other.

The Importance of Immediate Action

Water damage does not schedule the most convenient time to strike. Whether it is from a small leak or an entire flood, the longer the water sits in your home, the more damage it can do to the structure, walls, floors, and your belongings. This is why it is so important to act fast when it comes to water damage restoration. Should you go with the DIY water damage restoration or hire a damage restoration service right away?

Let us walk through each side of the definition of water damage restoration so you can be better informed.

DIY Water Damage Restoration: The Cost-Effective Option?

Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects are cost-effective for homeowners looking to save money. From mold remediation to wet carpet extraction, it's easy to find information online that deals with any water damage. The fact of the matter is it can be gratifying to fix the problem yourself. Then again, it isn't always as easy as it seems. Here’s the first reason why:

Tools and Experience

At first sight, tackling DIY restoration should be cost-effective. Water damage restoration involves specialty tools and experience to ensure the job is done appropriately. Using a mop to dry up water might treat the surface problem momentarily, but it won’t fix any hidden damage, and the situation could get worse. Water that gets behind walls or underneath floors needs to be thoroughly removed, or it will lead to decay, mold, and mildew as time progresses.

Time and Effort

Getting a water-damaged area back to its pre-damaged state takes more time and work than anyone expects. The hours spent extracting water or drying and treating water-damaged areas can add up quickly, creating frustration. It’s likely that if you have a busy life, the time spent restoring the problem after it has been damaged and dealing with all the problems comes at a far greater cost.  

Hidden Damage

The worst part of DIY water damage restoration is the risk of hidden damage. Water goes through cracks, crevices, and difficult-to-access areas. Hidden problems that aren’t identified could result in long-term repercussions: mold growth and rotting wood, to name a few. Even to your surprise, you might think you’ve gotten rid of the water, but when it reappears or develops, it is worse than before.

Why Choose a Professional Damage Restoration Service?

When you hire a Damage Restoration service, you can expect it will provide expertise, equipment, and assurance that a DIY situation will typically be missed. Let's explore the difference.

Expert Assessment and Precision

Once you contract with a damage restoration service, the first thing you can expect is an inspection. You will have experts trained to address the damage and identify the total extent of damage done. This includes spotting hidden issues that could affect the structure and lead to future issues. Even if there are minor visible signs of damage, the experts are trained to look for signs of water in your walls, attic, and hidden places where water gets into. They will be thorough and ensure all areas are addressed, even structural components damaged by water. 

Advanced Tools and Techniques

Experts use industrial-grade equipment to deal with severe water damage quickly, effectively, and efficiently. Industrial-power water extractors and dehumidifiers, as well as air movers, extract moisture rapidly and effectively to reduce possible damage. Their advanced methodology, including thermal imaging and moisture locating and detecting, guarantees that no area is overlooked. 

Mold Prevention

Mold is a significant concern after water damage, particularly if restoration is delayed. While removing standing water is essential, it is only one part of the restoration process. The professionals use antimicrobial applications to treat the water-affected areas to ensure the prevention of mold and mildew growth. Mold remediation is also a major component of water damage restoration; the professionals are certified, trained, and experienced in effectively and safely remediating mold.

Insurance and Guarantees

When engaging a professional damage restoration service, they usually can liaise with your insurance company to get the expenses right. Additionally, numerous restoration services offer a warranty, giving you further reassurance that the work was completed properly and that they will be there if you encounter further problems. 

Conclusion

Water damage can turn your life upside-down in an instant. However, the speed at which you act determines the outcome. TCM Restoration offers a water  that does much more than quick fixes. Their techniques and technology are top-tier in the industry, and you can have peace of mind while they restore your home functionally and safely. Water can change everything, but trust in professionals and allow them to change it back!