Substantial water damage may be the most overwhelming event for a homeowner. It can occur due to flooding, burst pipes, or any other causes, leaving behind a trail of destruction that threatens your home and its contents. Time is of the essence when addressing the situation, and two common responses to water-damaged conditions are restoration and mitigation. This blog will unpack the terms and shed some light on the processes.
What is Water Damage Restoration?
Restoring a property damaged by water to its pre-loss condition is called water damage restoration. This usually includes removing excess water, thoroughly drying out the affected areas, repairing structural damage, and restoring damaged belongings. Restoration specialists work with the equipment of their trade—mostly tools for drying, such as air movers—and they always seem to have moisture meters handy.
What is Water Mitigation?
Water mitigation focuses on preventing further damage by immediately removing standing water and drying out the affected areas as quickly as possible. Water mitigation aims to avoid mold growth and other long-term issues that can arise from prolonged exposure to moisture. This may involve extracting standing water, drying equipment, and monitoring moisture levels until the property is arid.
Reference: Dictionary
Differences Between Restoration and Mitigation
The two fields of water damage restoration and mitigation have different goals. Restoration seeks to fully return a property to its pre-loss condition, while mitigation aims to stop the water from causing more damage. When a water remediation project begins, mitigation is the first task. The goal is to prevent the property from being thoroughly and severely damaged and stop mold and mildew from becoming problematic.
When to Choose Restoration vs. Mitigation
The extent of water damage determines the options for restoration and mitigation. Trivial leaks may only require water mitigation, while severe flooding may necessitate complete restoration to return the building to its pre-loss condition.
Final Thoughts
Comprehending the distinctions between water damage restoration and water mitigation enables homeowners to make intelligent decisions when confronting a water disaster. Whether you need emergency action to stop the spread of damage or complete damage restoration to return your property to its pre-damaged condition, CMS Restoration has the resources—experienced professionals and an effective, efficient process—to handle your situation.
Take your time – contact us today for all your water damage restoration needs!