Act Quickly to Prevent Further Damage
The first moments after discovering water damage in your San Diego home are critical. Whether the cause is a burst pipe, a leaking appliance, or heavy rain, your priority should be stopping the source of the water if it’s safe to do so. Turn off the main water valve if the damage is plumbing-related, and unplug any electrical devices in the area to reduce the risk of shock. Next, document the damage with clear photos and videos before beginning any cleanup. These visuals can be crucial when filing an insurance claim and will serve as a reference for the scope of damage. Acting fast limits the extent of structural and material damage and sets you up for a smoother restoration process.
Start Drying Out the Area Immediately
Once you’ve addressed the source and captured the damage, begin drying immediately. Use towels to soak up standing water and set up fans to circulate air. Open windows if the weather allows, as airflow speeds up drying. A wet/dry vacuum can help remove water from carpets and flooring. Even though this step may seem straightforward, drying a space fully requires consistency and attention to hidden areas, like under flooring or inside wall cavities, where moisture can linger. These overlooked spots often become breeding grounds for mold, so don’t assume the area is dry just because surfaces feel better. Keep fans running continuously for at least 48 hours.
Remove Damaged Materials and Items
Not all materials are salvageable after water damage. Start by separating items that can be cleaned from those that need to be discarded. Porous materials like drywall, insulation, carpeting, and certain types of furniture may not recover fully from saturation and can harbor bacteria or mold. Bag and remove any materials that show signs of warping, staining, or a musty odor. Be cautious with personal belongings—some items may appear intact but still carry hidden moisture or contaminants. Store salvageable items in a dry area and begin cleaning them with appropriate disinfectants. For anything that can’t be thoroughly dried or cleaned, it’s best to let it go to prevent further issues.
Watch for Mold Growth and Other Hazards
Even after the area appears dry, the risk isn’t over. Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours of water exposure, especially in warm and humid environments like San Diego. Look for visible mold patches, musty smells, or discoloration on walls, ceilings, and floors. Mold doesn’t just affect your home—it can impact your health as well. Breathing in mold spores may cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, skin irritation, or even more serious symptoms for people with compromised immune systems. If you suspect mold is starting to spread, it’s time to involve professionals. A proper inspection and testing can uncover hidden mold growth that DIY solutions often miss.
Call Professionals When the Damage Is Severe
You should call a licensed restoration company if the water damage extends beyond surface-level cleanup. Professionals have the right equipment to fully dry and sanitize your home and the training to identify structural damage, mold growth, or health risks that might not be visible. When you work with an experienced team, you avoid the common pitfalls of underestimating water damage or attempting temporary fixes. At White Glove Restoration, we provide expert water damage repair and mold remediation services throughout San Diego. Our team is trained to respond quickly, clean thoroughly, and restore your home to a safe, healthy state.
Let White Glove Restoration Help You Recover
Don’t let water damage spiral into a bigger issue. Whether it’s a minor leak or a significant flood, White Glove Restoration is ready to help you take control of the situation. Call us at (619) 784-4627 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities—let’s get your home back to normal.
