There are few things homeowners dread as much as a flooded basement or a major leak inside their house. When it comes to water damage restoration, you should weigh your options before you throw on your DIY cap.

Water damage cleanup may bring more challenges than you initially expect, and it's a project that can quickly get away from you. Consider these three reasons to hire a professional for water damage restoration.

1. No Safety Hazards

The most important benefit of hiring a water damage restoration contractor is safety for you and your family. There are several ways uncontrolled water in your home can be potentially hazardous to your health.

Water that comes in contact with appliances, outlets, or light fixtures poses a risk of electric shock. Blackwater from sources such as sewage leaks contains harmful pathogens that could cause serious illness.

Hiring a professional to clean up water damage prevents the members of your household from being exposed to these safety hazards.

2. Thorough Water Removal

Large-scale water damage can leave moisture behind even after you think the cleanup is complete. Water that soaks into porous materials like carpet or drywall will continue to damage the surfaces around it. Furthermore, any lingering moisture increases the likelihood of a mold infestation in your home.

Professional water damage contractors use a four-phase process to remove all traces of moisture from your home:

1. Water removal

2. Drying and ventilating

3. Sanitizing

4. Repairing or removing damaged surfaces

The drying and ventilation phase is particularly effective at eliminating any hidden moisture. This process allows contractors to thoroughly remove all water and prevent unexpected problems from cropping up in the future.

3. Professional Experience and Equipment

Professional training and experience allow water damage contractors to accurately assess the damage in your home. This helps them contain the water quickly and minimize the financial impact of major water damage.

Water damage professionals have access to commercial-grade equipment so they can tackle cleanups of any size. Heavy-duty shop vacs let contractors remove large volumes of water, and dehumidifiers and air movers accelerate drying. Air purifiers are used to remove viruses and bacteria in the event of black water contamination, and moisture detectors help contractors identify and remove any remaining moisture.

Water damage contractors provide an invaluable service that keeps you safe and minimizes the damage to your home. Get in touch with a local contractor right away if your home needs emergency water damage repair.

For more information on water damage restoration, contact a professional near you.