Question 1

Will water damage cause mold if not addressed quickly?

Accepted Answer

Short version, yes. 
Long version… water left untreated begins to obtain the ability to grow mold after 24 hours. If you have water damage to your property, it is crucial that you properly address the issue.

Question 2

Who is responsible for monitoring the drying equipment?

Accepted Answer

At ATP RESTORATION, our water damage mitigation specialists are responsible for monitoring the drying equipment. They will regularly check the equipment to ensure optimal performance and make any necessary adjustments to achieve the best drying results. If you notice any issues, such as power loss or equipment shutting off, please contact our office immediately.

Question 3

What environments foster mold growth?

Accepted Answer

Mold thrives in warm, damp environments with poor ventilation. Common areas include basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and areas affected by water leaks or high humidity. Ensuring proper ventilation and addressing water issues can help prevent mold growth.

Question 4

How long will it take my property to dry?

Accepted Answer

Drying time depends on several factors, including how long the area was exposed, the materials affected, and weather conditions. Even if surfaces feel dry, moisture may still be present in padding or subfloors. ATP Restoration monitors the process to ensure thorough drying, typically taking three to five days or longer.

Question 5

How do you prevent mold growth after water damage?

Accepted Answer

ATP Restoration prevents future growth by quickly extracting water, using air movers and dehumidifiers for thorough drying, applying antimicrobial treatments, and using HEPA air scrubbers to improve air quality. We also inspect hidden moisture spots and remove compromised materials when necessary to ensure a mold-free environment.

Question 6

How quickly should water damage be addressed?

Accepted Answer

As soon as possible! Ideally, within the first 24 to 48 hours. The longer water sits, the greater the risk of structural damage, mold growth, and costly repairs. Quick action can prevent long-term issues and protect your property. ATP RESTORATION is ready to respond 24/7 to help minimize the damage.

Question 7

Should I open the windows to help the drying process?

Accepted Answer

It’s best to keep windows closed during the drying process. ATP Restoration’s drying equipment is designed to create a controlled environment for optimal moisture removal. Opening windows can interfere with humidity levels and slow down the drying process.

Question 8

How can I tell if I have mold?

Accepted Answer

Mold may be present if you notice visible growth, a musty odor, past water damage, or warped materials. Unexplained allergies or respiratory issues can also be signs. ATP Restoration offers professional testing, inspection, and removal to ensure a safe environment.

Question 9

Can water damage affect the integrity of my property?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Water damage can weaken walls, floors, and even your foundation. Prolonged moisture causes wood to rot, drywall to deteriorate, and metal to corrode, leading to structural instability and mold growth. Quick, professional drying and repairs are essential to prevent long-term damage.

Question 10

What happens if I don’t dry out water damage correctly?

Accepted Answer

If water damage isn’t dried properly, it can lead to mold growth, structural damage, and higher repair costs. Moisture left behind weakens wood, drywall, and flooring, creating potential long-term issues.

Question 11

How do I know when my property is completely dry?

Accepted Answer

At ATP Restoration, our specialists use professional moisture detection equipment to determine when your property is completely dry. Even if surfaces feel dry to the touch, moisture can still be trapped within walls, flooring, and other materials. We conduct thorough inspections and monitor moisture levels to ensure areas are properly dried.

Question 12

Do you fix the pipes after it bursts or cracks?

Accepted Answer

ATP Restoration focuses on water damage mitigation and restoration after a pipe bursts or cracks. While we do not perform plumbing repairs, we can recommend a trusted plumber to fix the issue before we begin the drying and restoration process. Our priority is ensuring your property is properly dried and restored to prevent further damage.

Question 13

What should I do if I discover water damage in my home?

Accepted Answer

If you discover water damage, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further issues. If it’s safe, turn off the water source and electricity to the affected area. Then, contact ATP RESTORATION. Our team will assess the damage, start extracting water, and begin the drying process, all while documenting everything for the homeowner and insurance.

Question 14

What happens if my sump pump fails during a storm?

Accepted Answer

If your sump pump fails during a storm, water can accumulate in your basement or crawl space, leading to flooding, structural damage, and potential mold growth. This can also damage flooring, walls, and stored belongings. 
Acting fast is crucial. ATP RESTORATION can respond immediately to remove water, dry the area, and begin restoring your property to its pre-loss condition.

Question 15

Do I need to leave my home during the water mitigation process?

Accepted Answer

The decision to remain in your home during the water mitigation process depends on the severity of the damage.  For minor incidents, staying might be feasible.For significant damage, temporary relocation may be recommended for your safety.

Question 16

Can you restore items that have sewage contamination?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can—but with caution.
Some items can be cleaned and restored after sewage contamination, but not all. We follow strict protocols when dealing with Category 3 water (sewage or black water). Hard, non-porous items can often be disinfected and saved. However, porous items—such as carpets and drywall—typically cannot be safely restored and may need to be discarded and replaced.

Question 17

Why are air movers and dehumidifiers used?

Accepted Answer

These tools work together to dry your property quickly. Air movers speed up evaporation, while dehumidifiers pull moisture from the air.  Together, these tools ensure your property is dried thoroughly and quickly, which is especially important in the lake area, where high humidity can prolong drying times.