Water Damage Clean Up: 6 Things to Expect from the Pros.

Water damage clean up is never something homeowners or property managers want to deal with. Yet when it happens, fast and professional action is key to preventing further destruction, costly repairs, and health hazards like mold. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a hurricane, or a leaky appliance, understanding what to expect from water damage clean up services can ease your stress and prepare you for the process.

In this post, we break down the water damage clean up process, what professionals do that sets them apart, and how to choose the right company to restore your home or business to its original condition.

Water damage cleanup is the process of removing water from your property and restoring affected areas. This can include everything from water extraction and drying, to sanitizing, dehumidifying, and restoring damaged walls, flooring, and furniture. The process often involves industrial-grade tools and experienced technicians who can detect hidden moisture and prevent mold growth.

Why Professional Water Damage Clean Up Is Critical

While a shop vacuum and some towels might help with a small spill, serious water damage requires professional-grade equipment and expertise. Improper clean up can lead to structural damage, mold growth, and even health risks.

Professional water damage cleanup ensures:

• Quick and thorough water extraction
• Mold prevention
• Drying and dehumidification using advanced tools
• Safe handling of contaminated water (if present)
• Structural drying
• Insurance documentation

Step-by-Step: What to Expect During Water Damage Clean Up

1. Emergency Contact and Response

A professional team like PuroClean of Coral Gables offers 24/7 response. The sooner you call, the better the chances of minimizing damage.

2. Inspection and Damage Assessment

Technicians assess the source, extent, and category of water damage (clean, grey, or black water) to determine the proper course of action. This step also includes identifying safety hazards.

3. Water Removal/Extraction

Using industrial-grade vacuums and pumps, professionals remove standing water quickly. This is the most urgent step to prevent water from seeping deeper into the structure.

4. Drying and Dehumidifying

After water is extracted, the drying process begins. Air movers and dehumidifiers are strategically placed to dry out walls, flooring, and furniture.

5. Cleaning and Sanitizing

All affected materials and surfaces are cleaned and disinfected. In cases of sewage backup or storm water, antimicrobial treatments are applied to kill bacteria.

6. Restoration

Depending on the damage, restoration may involve minor repairs like replacing drywall, or major renovations such as flooring replacement. A good water clean up company will handle it all.

Common Causes That Require Water Damage Clean Up

• Burst pipes or plumbing failures
• Roof leaks during storms
• Flooding from hurricanes or heavy rain
• Overflowing toilets or tubs
• Appliance malfunctions (dishwashers, water heaters)
• Sewage backups

Risks of Delaying Water Damage Clean Up

Putting off water clean up can lead to:

• Mold growth within 24-48 hours
• Weakened structural integrity
• Stained and warped flooring or drywall
• Electrical hazards
• Poor indoor air quality
• Increased insurance complications

The faster you act, the lower your repair costs will likely be.

Choosing the Right Water Damage Clean Up Company

When hiring a water clean up service, look for:

• Certified and insured professionals (IICRC preferred)
• 24/7 availability
• Positive reviews and testimonials
• Local knowledge (especially important for Coral Gables residents)
• Direct insurance billing support

PuroClean of Coral Gables checks all these boxes, offering a trusted and timely solution during your most urgent moments.

Water Damage Clean Up: Real-Life Scenario

A Coral Gables homeowner recently returned from vacation to discover their kitchen flooded due to a broken refrigerator line. Within hours of calling us, our technicians were on-site, extracting water, drying out cabinetry, and preventing mold from forming. Thanks to fast action, the homeowner avoided thousands of dollars in long-term damage.

FAQs: Water Damage Clean Up

How long does the clean up take?

Depending on the severity, the process can take anywhere from 2 to 7 days.

Will my insurance cover water damage clean up?

Most standard homeowner policies cover sudden water damage. PuroClean helps you navigate insurance claims.

Can I stay in my home during the clean up?

In minor cases, yes. For major damage, temporary relocation might be necessary.

Is mold always a concern?

Yes. Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours, making immediate clean up essential.

What should I do first when I notice water damage?

Turn off the water source if possible and call a professional water damage clean up company immediately.

Why Coral Gables Trusts PuroClean for Water Damage Clean Up

At PuroClean of Coral Gables, we treat your emergency as if it were our own. Our highly trained technicians use state-of-the-art equipment to handle everything from the smallest leak to the largest flood.

When disaster strikes, don’t waste time with DIY solutions. Let us help you:

• Eliminate water quickly
• Prevent costly mold issues
• Restore your property to pre-loss condition

Call us (562) 356-8500 today for 24/7 emergency water damage clean up services you can trust.