Many homeowners assume they need a restoration company anytime water gets into their home. The truth is that some small water losses can be handled safely on your own, while others require professional drying equipment and expertise.
At Executive Pro-Dry, we’ve been helping Colorado Springs homeowners since 1984, and we’ll be the first to tell you when a situation doesn’t require our services. Here’s how to determine whether you can handle water damage yourself—or when it’s time to call a professional.
When DIY Water Damage Cleanup May Be Enough
In some situations, a homeowner can successfully dry the affected area without professional assistance.
DIY cleanup may be appropriate if:
- The affected area is relatively small.
- The water is clean from a supply line or similar source.
- The water was discovered quickly.
- There is no water inside walls, ceilings, or other hidden spaces.
- No hardwood flooring, electrical systems, or lower levels of the home were affected.
- There are no signs of mold growth.
If all of these conditions are true, prompt water removal, proper drying, and close monitoring may be enough to prevent further damage.
When You Should Call a Water Damage Professional
Some situations carry a much higher risk of structural damage, mold growth, or health concerns.
We recommend professional mitigation if:
The Affected Area Is Large
Large water losses often require commercial extraction and drying equipment that homeowners don’t have access to.
The Water Is Contaminated
Water from washing machines, dishwashers, sewage backups, or outdoor flooding can contain contaminants that require specialized cleanup procedures.
The Water Has Been Sitting for More Than 24 Hours
The longer materials remain wet, the greater the risk of mold growth and permanent damage.
Water Reached Hardwood Flooring
Hardwood and engineered flooring can warp, buckle, or trap moisture underneath the surface if not dried properly.
The Water Came From a Wall or Ceiling
Leaks hidden inside walls and ceilings frequently spread farther than homeowners realize. Professional moisture detection equipment helps identify damage that isn’t visible.
Electrical Systems Are Involved
If water is near outlets, light fixtures, breaker panels, or wiring, safety should be your first priority.
Mold Is Already Present
If mold growth is visible, especially over a larger area, professional remediation is often the safest and most effective solution.
What DIY Cleanup Actually Requires
If your situation is small enough to handle yourself, acting quickly is critical.
Basic steps include:
- Stop the source of the water.
- Take photos for documentation.
- Remove standing water.
- Move contents out of affected areas.
- Increase airflow with fans.
- Run a dehumidifier continuously.
- Monitor for lingering moisture, odors, or signs of mold.
Remember that surfaces can appear dry while moisture remains trapped behind walls, under flooring, or beneath carpet padding.
Common DIY Mistakes
Over the years, we’ve seen three problems occur repeatedly when homeowners attempt water damage cleanup themselves:
Hidden Moisture
Water can remain trapped inside wall cavities or beneath flooring long after the surface appears dry.
Wet Carpet Padding
Carpet may feel dry while the padding underneath remains saturated, creating ideal conditions for mold growth.
Poor Documentation
If you plan to file an insurance claim, thorough documentation of the damage and cleanup process can be extremely important.
Water Damage in Colorado Springs: Common Situations
Every water loss is different, but some of the most common situations we see include:
- Frozen pipe bursts during winter.
- Sump pump failures.
- Pipe leaks.
- Hose bib leaks.
- Water heater leaks.
- Drain backups.
Some of these may be manageable if caught immediately, while others almost always require professional drying and restoration.
Not Sure Whether You Need Professional Help?
That’s okay. Give Executive Pro-Dry a call.
We’ll provide an honest assessment of the situation and let you know whether professional mitigation is necessary or if the issue is something you can reasonably handle yourself.
For over 40 years, we’ve served homeowners throughout Colorado Springs with fast response times, professional service, and straightforward recommendations.
Need help with water damage? Call Executive Pro-Dry 24/7 at 719-573-8390.