Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at thingstodoabc@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question!
Water Damage & Drying
1. How long does it take a home or business to dry after water damage in Huntsville?
On average, the drying process takes 3–4 days. Every situation is different, but our professional water damage restoration team in Madison County uses commercial-grade drying equipment to speed up the process safely.
2. How do I know when my home or business is completely dry?
We use advanced moisture detection technology to measure hidden water in walls, floors, and ceilings. This ensures your Huntsville property is fully dry before we complete the job.
3. Will turning up the heat help dry out water damage?
Turning up the heat may increase evaporation, but without dehumidification, it can cause secondary damage like mold. ABC Cleaning & Restoration uses a controlled process with air movers and dehumidifiers to dry your home safely.
4. Do wet or buckling wood floors always need replacement?
Not always! True hardwood flooring can often be restored with our specialized drying equipment. We’ll assess your floors and determine whether drying or replacement is best.
5. Will I need to replace my wet furniture after water damage?
Many types of furniture can be dried with minimal damage, but fabrics may shrink or bleed, and wood furniture may split. Our restoration specialists will evaluate each item to determine if it can be salvaged.
6. Do I have to move out during the water drying process?
Usually, you can remain in your home or business. The drying equipment may be noisy, but it’s safe. For severe water damage, temporary relocation might be recommended.
7. Does everything need to be moved out during drying?
We aim to dry items in place whenever possible, reducing the need for pack-out services. If needed, we can also move and protect your belongings.
8. How do I fix water damage to my ceiling?
If dried correctly, sheetrock can often be sealed and repainted. If structural integrity is compromised, our team and our partner contractor RenovationPro can handle necessary repairs.
9. Will opening windows help with drying after water damage?
Sometimes—if outside humidity is low. Otherwise, we use controlled processes like “burping” (venting humid air out) along with dehumidifiers for best results.
10. Can I walk on the area while it’s being dried?
Yes, it’s safe to walk on the treated areas, but avoid moving drying equipment so it can work efficiently.
11. Will my carpet have to be replaced after water damage?
Often carpets can be dried and cleaned without replacement. However, if contaminated water was involved, replacement may be necessary.
12. Who monitors the drying equipment?
Our technicians check the equipment daily to ensure proper drying progress.
13. Does it cost extra to run the equipment?
Energy usage is similar to running a large household appliance, like a refrigerator.
Fire Damage Restoration
14. How long does fire damage restoration take?
It depends on the extent of the damage. Small fires may be restored in weeks, while large-scale projects may take several months.
15. Can I clean my own home after a fire?
We don’t recommend it. Smoke and soot can cause permanent staining and health risks. Our Huntsville fire restoration team uses specialized equipment and cleaning agents.
16. Do I need to move out during fire restoration?
Yes, in many cases temporary relocation is recommended to prevent exposure and cross-contamination.
17. Do I need to hire a general contractor for repairs?
No. ABC Cleaning & Restoration partners with RenovationPro (www.RenovationProHSV.com) to handle all reconstruction needs after fire or water damage.
18. Will you store my belongings during fire restoration?
Yes. We provide safe, climate-controlled storage for items that have been cleaned.
19. Can I access my belongings while they’re in storage?
Yes, you will always have access to your stored belongings.
Mold Remediation
20. What is mold?
Mold is a fungus that thrives in damp, humid environments. It spreads quickly if water damage isn’t addressed.
21. Why is mold a problem?
Mold can damage your property and trigger health issues such as allergies, asthma, or respiratory problems. Some molds may release toxins.
22. What causes mold to grow?
Mold grows when materials stay wet for too long or humidity remains uncontrolled indoors.
23. How can I tell if I have mold in my home?
Look for musty odors or visible growth. We also offer professional mold testing in Huntsville and Madison County.
24. Can I prevent mold growth after water damage?
Yes. Proper drying, HVAC maintenance, and humidity control are key. ABC offers preventative treatments and inspections.
25. Do I need a professional for mold removal?
Yes. While Alabama has no licensing requirements, safe removal requires professional equipment and containment to prevent spreading spores.
26. How do I know how dangerous mold is in my home?
We take air samples indoors and compare them to outdoor levels. If indoor mold counts are significantly higher, remediation is needed.
Full-Service Restoration
27. Do you provide reconstruction after water or fire damage?
Yes. Through our partner RenovationPro, we handle full reconstruction so your property is restored from start to finish.
28. Can you help me determine the level of mold danger in my home?
Yes. While the EPA doesn’t set official limits, we work with indoor hygienists who test and analyze mold levels, helping you understand the risk and the best plan of action.
Need Immediate Restoration? Schedule Your Appointment Now!
24/7 Emergency Cleaning & Restoration Services