Los Angeles residents, have you ever wondered how long it takes to restore your home after water damage? The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. The duration of water damage restoration can vary significantly depending on the severity of the damage and other factors.
Minor Water Damage Cases
It typically takes about 72 hours for the affected areas to dry completely. However, the water can start causing damage to your home within an hour of exposure.
Therefore, it's crucial to contact a water damage restoration company as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential mold growth.
Severe Water Damage Cases
The restoration process can take several weeks. This is because larger areas affected by water damage require longer drying times.
Extensive water damage often happens as a result of major flooding, burst pipes, or prolonged water leaks. Unlike minor water damage, which can be contained to a small area, extensive water damage affects multiple rooms or even entire floors of your home. This widespread damage necessitates more labor-intensive restoration efforts.
The restoration process for extensive water damage can be a complex and time-consuming task. The first step is to remove any standing water from the affected areas, which may require the use of pumps and specialized equipment. This initial water extraction process alone can take a considerable amount of time, especially if the water levels are high.
For Older Homes
Furthermore, if your home was built before 1985, asbestos testing needs to be conducted first, which can take an additional 24-48 hours. If asbestos is found, it must be removed before the restoration process can begin, further extending the timeline.
In extreme cases, you may need to vacate your home for an extended period until the restoration is complete. This is to ensure that you and your family are not exposed to any hazardous or harmful substances.
Other Factors Slowing Down Restoration Process
Several factors can slow down the water damage restoration process. Poor communication between the homeowner and the restoration company can lead to delays.
Insurance issues can also prolong the process, as can the presence of contaminated water or the impact of water leaks on building materials.