This is a question that gets regularly asked online, but there isn’t a simple answer. The real answer is that it depends on what type of water damage is being dealt with. Water damage can range across a number of areas in the house and by degree. There is minor water damage and then there is major water damage.
Minor water damage can be handled by the homeowner if it’s a quick, easy fix but should be handled by a professional if it takes any real measure of carpentry to repair.
Quick, easy to fix water damage is usually something simple like some discoloration in the paint on a wall or ceiling. It can result in some discoloration to wallpaper. The truth is that replacing the wallpaper is a job that takes time, but can be done by almost anyone. If the situation involves a little bit of discoloration to paint, then there are two options one can take:
First – Dilute water with a sterilizing agent. Vinegar can be used, but it isn’t as effective as bleach. Bleach will kill any bacteria in the stain and, for white paint, is better at restoring the color. With this, it’s better to delicately brush away the stain and then let it dry overnight. The best results with this method are over a twenty-four hour period.
Second – Repaint. This is a solution that means repainting an entire wall or an entire room, but should only be used if the first solution doesn’t work. This takes time, but can be done by anyone.
Major water damage is an entirely different subject and can range from destroyed drywall to an entire wall needing replacing. Regardless of the amount of damage, it’s best to have a professional come in and make sure that there isn’t more damage that can’t be seen or if more damage will occur due to an ongoing problem.
If a specialist does come into the house and discovers that water damage has happened because of an ongoing issue, then it’s best to take care of the issue first. If it isn’t solved, then the water damage will just occur again and again.
Once the source of the damage is dealt with, it’s then that a professional team will establish if there are any further issues that might be a problem, like the development of mold or other issues. After that, they will make sure that everything is properly dried out so that they can begin work and ensure that there aren’t any other issues that rear their heads once everything’s dry.
It’s then that final work can begin. This means that something minor, like drywall can be repaired quickly, or more major work to replace damaged wood, insulation, floors, etc. can be done. Again, if this is the type of damage that’s occurred to a person’s home, they shouldn’t attempt to repair it themselves. Get professionals to do this type of repair work to ensure that it’s done correctly!