How Water Damage Restoration Works

Water damage restoration is a multi-phase process that involves assessing, extracting, drying, sanitizing, and ultimately restoring a property affected by water intrusion. Whether caused by plumbing failures, natural disasters, or appliance leaks, untreated water damage can compromise structural integrity, lead to mold growth, trigger costly repairs, and contribute to decreased property value.

PuroClean of Lawrenceville provides services in Lawrenceville, Chamblee and neighboring cities.

Common Types and Sources of Water Damage

Water damage can occur in several ways, each requiring specific mitigation efforts to prevent further harm to properties and occupants’ health.

Water damage originates from a wide range of sources, including:

In a residential laundry room, a standard white washing machine (next to a standard white dryer) is overflowing with sudsy water. It's spewing out of the lid on the top of the machine—a common household property damage.

Plumbing Leaks: Burst pipes, sump pump failures, leaking water heaters

Roof Leaks: Poor drainage or roofing material issues

Appliance Failures: Water line failures from dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators, etc.

Flooding & Storm Damage: Property damage from excessive rain, hurricanes, or rising groundwater

Sewage Backups: Carrying hazardous contaminants

HVAC and Condensation Issues: Leading to persistent indoor humidity

Foundation and Basement Leaks: Undetected leaks can lead to potential mold growth and structural deterioration

Each scenario presents unique risks and requires tailored restoration strategies to prevent long-term damage and health hazards.

Understanding Water Damage Categories

Water is classified into three categories based on its contamination level:

Category 1 (Clean Water): Safe, minimal health risk (e.g., broken pipes, rainwater)
Category 2 (Gray Water): Contains some contaminants; can cause illness if untreated
Category 3 (Black Water): Highly contaminated (e.g., sewage, floodwaters); requires immediate professional cleanup and sanitation

Correct identification of water category is essential for health safety and effective remediation.

Structural and Health Impacts of Water Damage

Unaddressed water damage can result in:

Rotted wood, weakened drywall, and corroded metal
Short circuits and electrical hazards
Mold growth within 24–72 hours
Poor indoor air quality and respiratory health risks
Pest infestations (e.g., termites, rodents)
Lower property value and higher insurance premiums

Financially, water damage can lead to property value loss, expensive reconstruction needs, and insurance complications if not properly documented and addressed.

The Water Damage Restoration Process—From Emergency
to Recovery

PuroClean IICRC-certified technician drying out wood flooring in a home after an occurrence of water damage.

Emergency Response & Inspection: Rapid arrival to assess damage and begin mitigation

Water Extraction: Removing standing water using industrial pumps and vacuums

Drying & Dehumidification: Specialized equipment eliminates hidden moisture in walls, flooring, and structural components

Cleaning & Sanitization: Antimicrobial treatments and disinfectants eliminate bacteria and odors

Restoration & Repairs: Rebuilding damaged materials and restoring the property to pre-loss condition

The “Science of Drying” process is guided by IICRC standards and supported by tools like moisture meters, infrared cameras, and psychrometric drying systems.

Unlike any other water damage repair company, we rescue and restore lives and property with the PuroClean QuickDry System™ in the shortest possible time, and at a much lower cost than the traditional water drying system, many of our competitors use. Using state-of-the-art equipment for drying, dehumidifying, deodorizing, and disinfecting, we restore your home or business with minimal disruption to get back to your normal life.

Why Professional Restoration Matters

Professional restoration providers bring significant advantages:

Fast response times reduce long-term damage
IICRC-certified technicians ensure quality and compliance
Advanced drying techniques and equipment maximize efficiency
Proper documentation streamlines insurance claims
Mold prevention safeguards occupant health

PuroClean Franchise Owners and technicians are equipped with the highest level of expertise in water damage restoration thanks to the advanced IICRC certifications they receive while training at the PuroClean Training Academy, including:

Water Restoration Technician (WRT): Demonstrates knowledge in performing remediation work and an understanding of water damage, its effects, and techniques for drying structures.
Applied Structural Drying (ASD): Proves expertise in efficiently and effectively drying water-damaged structures and contents, all while ensuring the safety and health of both the workers and the property’s occupants.

The IICRC is one of the most important and influential bodies in our industry, Darren Hudema, PuroClean Director of Training & Technical Services, said.

Prevention Tips for Property Owners

Proactive maintenance helps reduce water damage risks:

Inspect and service plumbing, appliances, roofs, and gutters regularly
Install water detection sensors in high-risk areas (e.g., basements, laundry rooms, etc.)
Grade landscaping to divert water away from the foundation
Know how to shut off the water supply and keep emergency contacts handy

Restoring Property and Peace of Mind

Water damage restoration is more than cleanup—it’s a science-driven, standards-based process designed to protect your property, health, and peace of mind. Understanding water categories, common causes, and the professional response timeline empowers property owners to act quickly, avoid costly damage, and ensure a full recovery.

For expert assistance with water damage restoration, contact a trusted professional service provider today.

Do you have questions? Click here to discover the answers to all the frequently asked questions about the restoration industry and the services PuroClean provides to property owners!

Want to learn more? Click here to learn about the water damage restoration process that is vital for home and business owners looking to restore their property to pre-loss condition after damage.

PuroClean of Lawrenceville is ready for any emergency service. Contact us today at (770) 810-5499.