How long does water damage restoration take? Every case is unique, so there is no single answer. It depends on factors such as the type of water, the area it affects, and how quickly you reach out to professionals.
According to the latest statistics from RubyHome, at least 14,000 Americans are affected by water damage every day. It’s the second-most common type of insurance claim, behind wind and hail. Knowing how long the water damage process takes from a ruined to a repaired home can put your mind at ease during this stressful time.
How Long Does Water Damage Restoration Take?
The best way to get a general water damage restoration timeline is to look at the severity of the damage.
It should only take three to five days to fix minor damage. The water from a single leaky pipe won’t take long to remove.
The process could take one or two weeks for moderate damage. One example is a broken washing machine that soaks through your basement.
Expect four or more weeks for severe damage. Think of the aftermath of a major flood or a broken sewer pipe.
Repairs and reconstruction can also be the longest part of the water damage cleanup process. They can take days or weeks longer than the water removal process itself.
Water Restoration Process
There are several necessary home restoration steps after water damage.
The first is assessment and stabilization. This involves inspecting the property and stopping the source of the water. It’ll also include moisture mapping to see any hidden sources.
The next step is to remove standing water and dry out the building. This requires the proper equipment, such as large fans and powerful dehumidifiers.
Cleaning is also important. It involves removing debris and sanitizing items that came into contact with the water. This is also where a mold remediation service comes in to prevent mold growth.
Once the property is verified as dry, repairing and rebuilding begins.
What Affects the Timeline?
Once you understand the average timeline, an even more important question than “how long does water damage restoration take” is “what can make it take longer?” This includes factors such as the size of the affected area and the type of water that touched it.
Affected Area and Materials
Single rooms take a few days to dry out. Multiple rooms may take weeks. A multi-story home will also take longer to dry than a single-story, open-concept building.
Certain materials dry faster. These include:
- Tile
- Concrete
- Vinyl
Others tend to hold water. They can slow down the process because they take longer to dry. These include:
- Wood
- Drywall
- Insulation
- Carpet
Environmental Conditions
The conditions inside a building aren’t the only factor that affects how long water damage cleanup takes. The outside air also has a major impact. Warm, dry outdoor air helps speed the process along. Cold, humid air can extend the timeline.
Type of Water
One of the most important factors in water damage repair duration is the type of water present. Each one has its own challenges and cleanup standards to follow.
Category-One
Category-one water is clean. It can come from issues such as burst pipes or water heater leaks.
It takes the least time to remedy, usually a few days per room. The water isn’t contaminated, so there’s no need for special approval or equipment.
Category-Two
Category-two, or gray water, presents some level of contamination. Think of a broken washing machine or dishwasher.
Expect up to 10 days per room or weeks for a house. This type of water requires special protective protocols. Materials may need to be removed instead of dried, which takes more time. They’ll also require a more thorough cleaning to become sanitary again.
Category-Three
This is also known as black water. It comes from sewage, rivers, floods, or other hazardous sources.
Cleaning out black water takes at least two weeks, but it can extend to over six weeks in severe cases. There are strict biohazard protocols to follow. There’s also the need for extensive removal as well as complex drying and decontamination.
When the Process Begins
The sooner you call a professional for water damage restoration, the sooner it’ll be done. Water dries faster when it hasn’t had enough time to soak deeply into materials.
You’re also less likely to develop mold or face structural damage.
Can I Do Water Restoration Myself?
Water restoration is one of the riskier DIY jobs you could attempt. It’s especially dangerous if the damage extends beyond one room or involves anything beyond category one water.
Professionals ensure that all the moisture gets removed and prevent any safety or health risks. They’ll also save you money by speeding up the repair timeline. They do this through experience and:
- Large vacuums and dehumidifiers
- Continual remediation
- Strategic material removal and moisture monitoring
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sleep In a Room with Water Damage?
Sleeping in a water-damaged room is risky due to the possibility of mold and structural damage. However, you might not have to leave your house.
In cases of minor water damage, you may be able to stay, but you won’t be able to access the affected room. However, if the damage affects multiple rooms, it’s best to relocate. This will prevent you from dealing with issues such as:
- Excessive noise
- Lack of access
- Dust and debris from material removal
- Odors from water-damaged material
What’s the Difference Between Restoration and Remediation?
Remediation is about removing contaminants and hazards. Think of removing standing water near a source of electricity or sanitizing materials that touched category-three water.
Restoration is about repairing and rebuilding the property. This includes steps such as replacing drywall or painting over damaged areas.
You also can’t begin restoration until remediation is complete.
Get Water Damage Restoration Today
How long does water damage restoration take? It can take a few days to a few weeks, depending on factors such as the extent of the damage and the type of water that affected it.
Palm Restore has been providing disaster cleanup to Northern California and South and Central Oregon since 2013. We specialize in fire, water, mold, and biohazard restoration for homes and large commercial properties. We’re dedicated to providing quality restoration with care and precision.
Contact us for help getting your home or business back to normal today.
