How We Tackled a Storm-Related Water Loss and Helped a Homeowner Recover
When a powerful windstorm hit the area, a homeowner called our team at ABC Environmental Contracting Services in Springfield to handle a storm-related water loss. A large tree branch had broken through their roof, leading to ceiling collapse, wet insulation, and a soaked bedroom floor. The homeowner described the room as "a mess" and wasn't sure if things were still wet. We stepped in right away to assess the damage and start the water mitigation in Springfield.
How We Responded to the Storm-Related Water Loss
This was more than just a leak; it was a full water intrusion caused by storm damage. Acting fast was key to avoiding further problems like mold or rot. Here's how our team handled it from start to finish:
Assessment and Moisture Readings
We arrived on-site with a moisture meter to figure out exactly where the water had spread. These tools helped us detect moisture even if it wasn’t visible to the eye. In the bedroom, the flooring was completely saturated, and the ceiling had already collapsed in one area. Wet insulation had fallen to the floor, and there was a musty odor in the room, indicating water had been sitting for a while. We explained everything to the homeowner and began planning the mitigation steps immediately.
Ceiling and Insulation Removal
To prevent further issues like mold or structural damage, we had to remove the affected building materials. Once insulation is wet, it can't be dried out properly, and a collapsed ceiling poses safety risks. Here's what we removed from the affected room:
- Broken ceiling panels
- Water-soaked insulation
- Debris from the branch impact
- Small sections of drywall with signs of moisture
We bagged everything up and disposed of it properly to keep the home safe and clean during the process.
Dehumidification Setup
After the tear-out was complete, we brought in our professional-grade dehumidifiers to pull moisture from the air and the structural materials. These machines ran continuously to help speed up the drying process. Every day, we returned to check moisture levels in the walls and floors, adjusting equipment as needed to make sure no moisture was left behind. Drying took several days, but we kept the homeowner updated the entire time.
Sunroom Inspection
While handling the bedroom, the homeowner mentioned some discoloration in the sunroom ceiling. We inspected that space and found more water intrusion caused by the same windstorm. The roof had sustained minor damage there too, which had allowed water to leak in. We expanded the mitigation work to include that room, setting up additional drying equipment and making sure all impacted areas were treated properly.
Cleanup and Next Steps
Once drying was complete, we shut down and removed all equipment. Our team cleaned the work areas thoroughly, sweeping up debris, wiping surfaces, and double-checking moisture readings. The home was now dry and stable, ready for a roofing contractor and interior repairs to come in. We gave the homeowner a full report so they could pass it along to their insurance.
Storm-Related Water Loss? Let’s Get Your Home Back to Normal
Storm-related water loss doesn't just affect what you can see; moisture can get trapped behind walls, under flooring, or inside insulation. Our quick response helped this homeowner avoid long-term damage and costly repairs down the road. If your home has suffered a storm-related water loss, call ABC Environmental Contracting Services in Springfield today at (417) 302-3010 or fill out an online form on our website. We're here to help with fast, professional cleanup.
