What a restoration job typically includes
- Inspection & moisture mapping — meters and infrared cameras locate wet materials behind walls and under floors.
- Water extraction — truck-mounted or portable extractors remove standing water and saturate carpet.
- Controlled demolition — removing wet baseboards, the bottom of drywall (a 'flood cut') or carpet pad when they can't be dried.
- Drying — air movers and commercial dehumidifiers, checked daily with readings until materials hit dry standards.
- Cleaning & antimicrobial treatment where appropriate.
- Repairs — some providers rebuild; others hand off to a contractor.
Clean, gray and black water
The industry classifies water by contamination. Category 1 is clean water from a supply line. Category 2 (gray) comes from appliances like washers or dishwashers. Category 3 (black) includes sewage and floodwater from outside. Category 1 water left sitting for a couple of days in a warm house can degrade into Category 2 or 3, which is one reason fast response saves money.
How long does drying take?
Most residential jobs dry in about three to five days, depending on materials, how long water sat, and humidity. Hardwood, plaster and crawlspaces can take longer. Ask your provider to share daily moisture readings so you can see progress.
Questions to ask a provider
- Are you insured, and can you send a certificate?
- Will you document moisture readings and photos for my insurer?
- Do you bill my insurance directly, and what will I owe out of pocket?
- Will you do repairs, or only mitigation?
Water on the floor right now?
Shut off the water if you safely can, keep away from wet outlets, and call. We'll connect you with an available local restoration provider.
📞 Call (912) 555-0100