Save Valuables From Water Damage After a Pipe Break

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Personal belongings damaged by water in Mirrormount, WA

Save Valuables From Water Damage After a Pipe Break

Personal belongings that have been damaged from water in home residences are often salvageable if treated quickly and correctly. After a disaster or pipe break in Mirrormount,WA, act quickly and use the following tips to preserve damaged goods in your cleanup efforts.

Rinsing

One of the first things to do upon discovering water sitting in your residence is to rinse belongings with cool, clear water. Avoid using high-pressure sprayers that may further damage your goods. A clear-water rinse is best used on durable materials that have become dirty or soiled after a broken pipe incident. Fill a large basin with clean water or use a gentle flowing tap to rinse items like the following:

• Metals
  
• Plastics
  
• Upholstery
  
  

Air Drying

While you may feel panic setting in after you initially discover water in home basements or living spaces, take the time to allow your belongings to air dry. Avoid using high-temperature dryers like blow dryers or heaters on delicate heirlooms and valuables. Rapid heat drying can lead to splitting or fading of common household objects. Sun drying can even cause damage if direct rays lead to overheating. For the following items, attempt first to air dry them indoors using open windows for airflow and dehumidifiers to reduce moisture:

• Documents
  
• Photographs
  
• Artwork
  
• Books
  
  

Brushing or Dabbing

Before attempting to save a precious keepsake or article damaged by a pipe leak, consider the best way to remove stains or debris. If the object is dry, start by removing caked-on mud, silt, dirt, and debris. Do so gently to keep from grinding particles into the object. A light hand is helpful to avoid scratches and smears. When it comes to upholstery or clothing, contact a dry cleaning company to see what attempts can be made to salvage your treasured goods.
No matter how severe the water in home problem may be, careful attention and timeliness work to your advantage. These basic cleaning techniques and practices should serve you well until home water damage professionals can arrive at the scene.