Water Heater Burst? 5 Simple Steps for Effective Recovery

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are ready to help you combat water damage!

Has a water heater burst flooded your basement?

If you've ever had a water heater burst, you know that it can cause massive water damage and leave your basement in shambles. A burst water heater can dump gallons of water into your home in minutes, and the resulting mess can be overwhelming.

If this happens to you, there are some steps you can take to minimize the damage and get your life back to normal as soon as possible. The most important? Working with a water damage restoration professional like SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties who has experience helping property owners recover from disaster.

This article will outline what to do if your water heater bursts and water damage restoration is necessary.

What to do if your water heater bursts

If you experience a water heater burst, take the following steps to mitigate the damage:

1. Shut off the water supply to the water heater. You can usually do this at the valve near the water heater.
2. Turn off the power to the water heater. This can usually be done at the breaker box.
3. Call a water damage restoration professional like SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties. We have experience helping homeowners recover from this type of disaster and can help you get your life back to normal as quickly as possible.
4. Call your insurance company. Be sure to document the damage with photos and video before you begin the cleanup process. Your insurance company will likely cover the cost of the water damage restoration.
5. Schedule a repair or replacement. Once the water damage has been mitigated, you'll need to schedule a repair or replacement for your water heater.

What type of water damage does a burst water heater cause?

A water heater burst can cause extensive basement water damage. The water can seep into the walls and floor and can cause mold growth and other structural damage. 

Wall water damage:

If the water heater is located in the basement, there is a good chance that the water will seep into the walls and cause damage. If this happens, you'll need to have the walls dried out and repaired by a professional.

Floor water damage:

The water can also seep into the floor, causing damage to the flooring material and potentially causing mold growth. If this happens, you'll need to have the flooring replaced or repaired.

Mold growth:

If the water is not dried out quickly enough, mold can start to grow. Mold creates a more complicated situation and must be removed by a professional.

Structural damage:

The water from a burst water heater can cause severe structural damage to your home. If the damage is severe, you may need to have the affected area rebuilt by a professional.

The water damage restoration process

A water damage restoration professional will first assess the damage and determine the best course of action. Often, they will begin by drying out the area and removing any water or moisture. They may also use special equipment to detect any hidden moisture that could lead to mold growth.

Next, they will begin the cleanup process. This can involve removing furniture and other belongings from the area, cleaning up any water or mud, and disinfecting the area.

Finally, they will work with you to schedule a repair or replacement for your water heater. Then, with the help of a professional, you can get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Trust SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties when you have a water heater burst!

Whenever an unexpected water emergency arises on your property, it is crucial to get in touch with a water damage restoration expert who can minimize your risk for mold growth. Then, take pictures of the situation—this evidence is helpful for insurance claims.

While a water heater burst can cause a lot of damage, it doesn't have to ruin your life. With the help of a water damage restoration professional like SERVPRO of Jackson and Madison Counties, you can get your life back to normal quickly and without any hassle. We have experience helping homeowners recover from this type of disaster, and we're here to help you too! So give us a call today!