### Assessing Water Damage **Sustained Water Damage** The first step is to assess the extent of the damage. This includes determining the source of the water, the type of water damage (clean or contaminated), and the severity of the damage. **Professional Assessment** If the damage is extensive, it is best to call in a professional water damage cleanup company. They will have the equipment and expertise to assess the damage and develop a plan to clean up and restore the affected area. ### Dealing with Water Damage to Wood **Clean Water Damage** If the water damage is from a clean source, such as a burst pipe, the wood can be disinfected with a solution of bleach and water. The ratio of bleach to water should be 1:10. The solution should be applied to the wood and allowed to sit for 10 minutes. The wood should then be rinsed with clean water and allowed to dry. **Contaminated Water Damage** If the water damage is from a contaminated source, such as a flood, the wood must be disinfected with a stronger solution. A solution of 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water should be used. The solution should be applied to the wood and allowed to sit for 30 minutes. The wood should then be rinsed with clean water and allowed to dry. **Additional Tips for Disinfecting Wood** * Use a soft cloth or sponge to apply the disinfectant solution. Do not scrub the wood, as this can damage the finish. * Allow the disinfectant solution to sit on the wood for the recommended amount of time. Do not rinse the wood prematurely. * Rinse the wood thoroughly with clean water. Do not leave any disinfectant residue on the wood. * Allow the wood to dry completely before using it again.