What Is Water Mitigation? Comparing With Water Restoration

11/11/2020 (Permalink)

The above specialized equipment is used to mitigate damages after flooding or water leaks.

When flooding or water damage affects your home, you will have to call a company to perform "water mitigation services". But what is the water mitigation definition? And how is it different from water damage restoration? Here, we will review the differences between these services so you'll be prepared when a water damage company visits your home.

What is Water Damage Mitigation?

Mitigation is the process of reducing further damages to your home or business - whether that be after a fire or a flood. Water mitigation companies use specialized techniques and equipment to minimize your loss.

The water mitigation process includes:

• Cleaning and disinfecting salvageable materials and items
• Extracting standing water from building materials that can be salvaged
• Removing any wet furniture or debris from the property
• Securing and stabilizing the property to prevent further damages by boarding up windows, using tarps, and other necessary actions
• Drying out the home with commercial grade equipment: Air movers, dehumidifiers, floor drying mats, and more

The goal of mitigation is to ensure there are no further consequences from the disaster - not repair them. This helps prevent structural decay, building deterioration, and mold and mildew growth. These issues can make recovering after your water loss much more extensive.

What is Water Damage Restoration?

Restoration refers to bringing your damaged property back to it's former conditions. Water restoration means bringing your home back to pre-water loss conditions through reconstruction and rebuilding. This can only be done after the water mitigation process has been completed. Your property cannot be repaired until all water damage problems have been addressed.

Water damage restoration companies typically do the following:

• Replace any damaged flooring, drywall, or other building materials
• Remediate any mold issues
• Test residual humidity and moisture before deeming the process complete
• Resolve any cosmetic issues from your water damage
• Repair structural damages
• Remove any unwanted odors from the property

Are Mitigation and Restoration Companies the Same?

In most cases, water damage companies provide both mitigation and restoration services - as they are two sides of the same coin. It is best to use a company that does mitigation, restoration, and is well versed in construction. This ensures the process is completed seamlessly and by qualified professionals.

Using a company that provides both mitigation and restoration is also cost-effective. In many cases, it is cheaper to clean and restore rather than completely replacing all damaged materials. Experienced restoration companies know what materials can be saved and what must be thrown away.