Your Water Pipe Burst -- Now What? 4 Steps To Clean Up

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Four Steps In Cleaning After Water Damage

Bursting pipes are no fun for homeowners in Fort Myers Shores, FL. Although your water pipes can break down for a number of different reasons, the potential hazards are the same: flooding, water damage, and even harmful mold. If a pipe breaks in your home, there are four steps you should take right away.

1. Immediately shut off the main water valve. The amount of damage done to your property is due in part to how quickly you discover the problem. Shutting off your water can help minimize any water damage that may have already begun. If you’re lucky, it should prevent any damage at all.

2. Avoid using electrical appliances. Stay far away from any electrical products. If you can do so safely, turn off your home’s electricity. It is dangerous—and even life-threatening—to come into contact with electricity while standing in water.

3. Call a plumber. Once you’ve turned off the water and ensured your safety by cutting the electricity, hire a plumber to fix the broken pipe. You should address the main offender, but you should also prevent further bursting pipes. While the plumber is at your house, he or she can do a full assessment of your plumbing and service other problem areas if necessary.

4. Call a cleanup service. The fallout from broken water pipes often requires quick intervention. Cleaning up can be an exhausting and time-consuming process. A cleanup service can take this job off your hands and also give you peace of mind that the job is being done correctly. These professionals are typically skilled in preventing and removing mold, eliminating standing water, and cleaning damaged items. The sooner you get help, the more likely you are to salvage your property.

If bursting pipes have damaged your house in Fort Myers Shores, FL, it’s important to take swift action. Turn off your water, keep yourself safe from electrical accidents, and call in the experts.