Water damage is one of the most stressful things a homeowner can face. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, overflowing washer, or a backed-up toilet, water can quickly ruin floors, walls, and cabinets—especially in high-risk areas like kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms.
If you’re dealing with water damage, acting fast is key. In this guide, we’ll break down what to do when water hits these rooms, how to repair the damage, and tips to prevent future issues. Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Safety First
Before you do anything, make sure it’s safe to enter the space. Turn off the electricity to the affected area and avoid standing in water where live wires may be present. If you’re unsure, call a licensed electrician or professional water damage restoration company like Flood Rewind for help.
Next, shut off the water supply if it’s still running. This could be under the sink, behind the washing machine, or at your home’s main water shut-off valve.
Step 2: Assess the Damage
Once it’s safe, inspect the space. Here’s what to look for in each area:
- Kitchen: Check under sinks, behind appliances, and under flooring. Cabinets may swell or delaminate if they’re made from particle board or MDF.
- Laundry Room: Look for soaked drywall, water under the washing machine, and warped or soft flooring.
- Bathroom: Tile might seem okay, but water can sneak under the surface. Check behind vanities, under bathtubs, and around toilets.
Use a moisture meter if you have one, or call in professionals with thermal imaging to catch hidden water damage.
Step 3: Dry Everything Out
Drying out your space is one of the most important steps to prevent mold and further damage.
- Ventilation: Open windows and use fans to circulate air.
- Dehumidifiers: These help pull moisture out of the air, especially in humid environments like bathrooms.
- Remove Wet Materials: Rip out wet carpet, baseboards, drywall, or insulation that can’t be saved. Tile floors can sometimes be dried out, but subfloors underneath may still be wet.
- Professional Help: For large jobs, call a water restoration team. At Flood Rewind, we use commercial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out rooms fast and thoroughly.
Step 4: Clean and Disinfect
Water damage—especially from gray water (like washing machines) or black water (sewage)—can introduce bacteria into your home.
- Disinfect all surfaces using antimicrobial cleaners.
- Wash or replace fabrics like rugs, towels, or curtains that got wet.
- Sanitize tools and gear you used during cleanup to avoid spreading germs.
If mold has already started growing (usually after 24–48 hours), it’s best to call in mold remediation experts.
Step 5: Repairing & Rebuilding
Once everything is dry and clean, it’s time to start repairing.
Kitchens:
- Cabinets: Replace swollen or damaged cabinets. Solid wood may be restorable; MDF usually isn’t.
- Appliances: Check the wiring and connections before plugging anything back in. Have a technician inspect them if they were in standing water.
- Flooring: Laminate often needs to be replaced. Tile or vinyl might be salvageable if the subfloor is intact.
Laundry Rooms:
- Drywall and Insulation: Replace anything that got wet. Mold-resistant drywall is a smart upgrade.
- Flooring: Water-resistant vinyl or tile is ideal for future protection.
- Connections: Replace old hoses and clamps on your washer to prevent future leaks.
Bathrooms:
- Vanities and Cabinets: These often absorb water from the base up. Replace anything warped or swollen.
- Tile and Grout: If water got underneath, you may need to re-tile. Regrout or reseal to prevent future seepage.
- Plumbing Fixtures: Inspect toilets, sinks, and shower connections. Leaks here can lead to future water damage if not fixed properly.
Step 6: Prevent Future Water Damage
Once your rooms are repaired, take steps to avoid going through it again:
- Install leak detectors under sinks, near toilets, and behind appliances.
- Replace old pipes or hoses, especially those with signs of wear or rust.
- Seal grout and caulk in bathrooms to keep water from sneaking into walls or floors.
- Regularly inspect plumbing fixtures and shut-off valves.
And of course, always have a plan. Know where your main water shut-off is and make sure everyone in the house knows how to use it.
When to Call the Pros
Some water damage can be handled by homeowners, but it’s always smart to call in professionals when:
- Water damage covers more than a few square feet
- You smell musty odors (a sign of mold)
- Water came from a sewer or unknown source
- You want fast, safe, and reliable results
At Flood Rewind, we specialize in restoring water-damaged spaces like kitchens, laundry rooms, and bathrooms. From the first dry-out to the final repairs, we’ve got your back.
Final Thoughts
Water damage is never fun, but with the right steps, you can restore your kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom to better-than-before condition. Remember: act fast, stay safe, and don’t be afraid to get help.
If you’re facing water damage in your home, give Flood Rewind a call. We’re here to help you rewind the damage and get your life back on track.
