The short answer
Stop the Water First
Your first move is to shut off the main water valve. Find it near your water meter or where the main line enters your home. If you live in Caldwell, keep the shutoff valve location written down so you can act fast in an emergency.
After the water is off, open faucets to drain remaining water from the pipes. Turn off the electricity in the affected area if water has reached outlets or appliances. Use a flashlight and wear rubber boots for safety.
Remove Standing Water
Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up as much water as possible. For deeper water, a sump pump can help. Work from the highest point of the water toward a drain or outside area. Move furniture and rugs out of the way to access all wet spots.
Pay attention to hidden areas like under cabinets and behind baseboards. Water can travel along walls and under flooring. If you notice the water level is not dropping, you may need to remove baseboards or cut small holes in drywall to let water out.
- Wear gloves and waterproof boots
- Use a wet/dry vacuum for small areas
- Rent a pump for large amounts of water
- Move furniture and area rugs
- Check under sinks and appliances
- Open windows for airflow
Dry the Area Thoroughly
Drying is the most important step to prevent mold and further damage. Set up fans to blow air across wet surfaces. Use a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air. If the weather is dry, open windows to let humidity escape.
Remove wet carpet, padding, and soaked drywall. These materials hold water and can cause rot and mold. Cut drywall at least 12 inches above the waterline. Remove baseboards and insulation if they are wet. The longer materials stay wet, the more damage they cause.
Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
After drying, clean all hard surfaces with a mild detergent and water. Then wipe down with a mixture of bleach and water (1 cup bleach per gallon of water) to kill germs. Rinse with plain water and let surfaces air dry. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.
For upholstered furniture and mattresses, steam cleaning can help, but if they are soaked, they may need to be discarded. If you have items that are valuable or difficult to clean, consider on-site contents cleaning services. Always wear gloves and a mask while cleaning, and see a doctor if you feel unwell.
When to Call the Pros
Some water damage is too large for a homeowner to handle alone. If water has soaked into walls, floors, or the crawlspace, or if you notice a musty smell, it is time to get help. Local water damage pros have industrial equipment to extract water and dry structures quickly.
They can also inspect for hidden damage and help with flooring removal and deep cleaning. If you have insurance, check your policy to see what is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Acting fast is key to reducing damage, so do not wait to ask for help.
- Water has spread to multiple rooms
- Ceiling or walls are sagging
- Crawlspace is flooded
- You smell mold or mildew
- You cannot dry the area within 48 hours
- You need help moving heavy furniture
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Caldwell and nearby communities.
Call Now (208) 729-2441Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry out after a burst pipe?
It depends on how much water and what materials are wet. With fans and dehumidifiers, you can dry a small area in a few days. Larger areas or soaked drywall may take a week or more. If it is not dry in 48 hours, mold can start to grow.
Can I clean up the water myself?
Yes, for small spills you can use a wet/dry vacuum and fans. But if water has soaked into walls, floors, or crawlspace, you may need professional help. The pros have heavy-duty pumps and dryers that can handle large volumes and hidden moisture.
What should I throw away after a burst pipe?
Anything that absorbed water and cannot be dried quickly, like soaked carpet, padding, drywall, and insulation. Cardboard boxes, paper, and some upholstered furniture may also need to go. If you are unsure, a water damage inspection can help you decide.