Water damage can wreak havoc on your home and belongings, but it's important to act quickly to minimize the damage. Here's a guide to assessing water damage and dealing with specific types of damage. ### Assessing Water Damage * **Extent of Damage:** Determine the extent of the damage by examining the affected areas. Check for visible water lines, standing water, or dampness. * **Source of Water:** Identify the source of the water, such as a burst pipe, leaking roof, or overflowing appliance. This will help determine the appropriate cleanup approach. * **Materials Affected:** Assess the materials that have been damaged, such as drywall, flooring, furniture, and electronics. Different materials require specific cleanup methods. ### Dealing with Specific Damage **Drywall:** * Remove baseboards and drill holes in the drywall to drain water. * Use a wet/dry vacuum to extract excess water. * Apply a mold inhibitor to prevent further damage. **Flooring:** * Remove any standing water with a wet/dry vacuum. * Dry affected flooring thoroughly using a dehumidifier or fans. * Replace any damaged flooring as necessary. **Furniture:** * Remove upholstery and cushions to dry. * Wipe down wooden furniture with a dry cloth and apply a furniture polish. * If electronics or sentimental items are damaged, consider professional restoration. **How Do You Know If Water Damage Is Permanent?** Permanent water damage can occur when water penetrates deep into building materials, causing structural damage. Signs of permanent damage include: *