Water damage can wreak havoc on your home, causing significant structural damage and health risks. Taking prompt action is crucial to minimize the impact and prevent further issues. ### Immediate Actions After water damage occurs, it's essential to: - **Shut off the water source:** Identify the source of the leak or flood and turn off the water supply. - **Remove standing water:** Use a wet/dry vacuum or mop to remove as much standing water as possible. - **Contact a water damage restoration professional:** Trained technicians can assess the damage and recommend appropriate restoration measures. ### Initial Steps Once the immediate threats have been addressed, you should: - **Assess the extent of damage:** Determine which areas are affected by water damage, including walls, ceilings, and flooring. - **Document the damage:** Take pictures and videos of the damage for insurance purposes. - **Remove affected materials:** Remove any waterlogged materials, such as drywall, carpeting, and furniture. ### When to Replace Drywall After Water Damage? It is essential to replace drywall after water damage to prevent mold growth, structural weakening, and health concerns. Replace drywall if it is: - **Severely soaked:** If the drywall has been soaked through and is soft or spongy to the touch. - **Mold growth:** If signs of mold growth are present, it must be promptly removed. - **Structural damage:** If the drywall is buckled, warped, or showing signs of structural weakness.