San Francisco Water Damage Restoration Guide. 415-861-8003
EPA presents strategies to respond to water damage within 24-48 hours. These guidelines are designed to help avoid the need for remediation of mold growth by taking quick action before growth starts. If mold growth is found on the materials listed in Table 1, refer to Table 2 for guidance on remediation. Depending on the size of the area involved and resources available, professional assistance may be needed to dry an area quickly and thoroughly.
Go to Table 2 | Go back to Investigating, Evaluating, and Remediating Moisture and Mold Problems
Water-Damaged Material †ActionsBooks and papersFor non-valuable items, discard books and papers.Photocopy valuable/important items, discard originals.Freeze (in frost-free freezer or meat locker) or freeze-dry.Carpet and backing - dry within 24-48 hours §Remove water with water extraction vacuum.Reduce ambient humidity levels with dehumidifier.Accelerate drying process with fans.Ceiling tilesDiscard and replace.Cellulose insulationDiscard and replace.Concrete or cinder block surfacesRemove water with water extraction vacuum.Accelerate drying process with dehumidifiers, fans, and/or heaters.Fiberglass insulationDiscard and replace.Hard surface, porous flooring §(Linoleum, ceramic tile, vinyl)Vacuum or damp wipe with water and mild detergent and allow to dry; scrub if necessary.Check to make sure underflooring is dry; dry underflooring if necessary.Non-porous, hard surfaces
(Plastics, metals)Vacuum or damp wipe with water and mild detergent and allow to dry; scrub if necessary.Upholstered furnitureRemove water with water extraction vacuum.Accelerate drying process with dehumidifiers, fans, and/or heaters.May be difficult to completely dry within 48 hours. If the piece is valuable, you may wish to consult a restoration/water damage professional who specializes in furniture.Wallboard
(Drywall and gypsum board)May be dried in place if there is no obvious swelling and the seams are intact. If not, remove, discard, and replace.Ventilate the wall cavity, if possible.Window drapesFollow laundering or cleaning instructions recommended by the manufacturer.Wood surfacesRemove moisture immediately and use dehumidifiers, gentle heat, and fans for drying. (Use caution when applying heat to hardwood floors.)Treated or finished wood surfaces may be cleaned with mild detergent and clean water and allowed to dry.Wet paneling should be pried away from wall for drying.
Dryfast respond to Water Damage calls 24-hour 7 days a week serving all of San Francisco.
