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Protecting And Preserving Documents And Photos After A Disaster

16 November 2015 by Jetse Wilkes

Floods and fires rarely give people enough time to prepare properly. The result of water damage is often a lot of ruined belongings. While many of these items are replaceable and covered by insurance, there are many others that can never be replaced. This includes many paper goods like important documents and older photos. Paper is notoriously vulnerable to the damage that water can cause, but there are some ways to preserve these items if they do become saturated.

When Instant Cleanup is Impossible

In some instances, people are able to immediately tend to damaged items. In other cases, the damage is too great to worry over each individual item at that moment. When this circumstance occurs, it is possible to halt the damage to photos and paper goods by freezing them. To do so, drain the excess water from each piece and place the items in a box or plastic bag, using wax paper to separate each piece. Leave them in the freezer until they can be worked on.

Drying out Items Immediately

The important point is to remove the water before mold has the opportunity to grow. In order to dry, move everything to a room with good ventilation where the items will be safe. Place absorbent paper, like unprinted newspaper, on a table that will not be damaged by the moisture. Books should be placed on end and opened wide enough for the pages to fan out. Placing paper towels within the pages may help to absorb the water faster. Spread out documents or photos, or if the items are strong enough, gently clip onto a clothes line. Use fans to create more airflow, but avoid pointing them directly at the items. Replace the newsprint and paper towels regularly.

Contacting a Professional

A water restoration company can assist with many of these items and will most likely be needed to help with the house and furnishings as well. However, in some instances, additional help may be required. For homeowners working with a restoration company, see what their method of handling items like vintage photos may be. If they already have a professional who oversees the matter, there is no reason for the homeowner to make more work for themselves. If not, contact a professional photographer to see if they are able to make a new negative from the damaged photo that may allow copies to be made. If possible, scanning the photos can allow repairs to be made digitally as well.

Prevent Future Incidents

To prevent the loss of important items, it is a good idea to invest in a high-quality waterproof and fire-resistant safe. Portable models are available and are easy to grab in an emergency situation. Store documents like birth certificates, passports and insurance paperwork in the safe. Make high-quality copies of vintage photos and other non-replaceable ephemera and display the copies while keeping the originals carefully stored away.

Mold and mildew are an added insult to homeowners who have already been through a disaster. By being diligent about caring for items immediately, and calling for additional professional assistance as needed, it is easier to avoid nasty surprises later on. It will even help to preserve a lot of property that might have seem lost at first. 

For professional restoration services, contact a company such as CDM Cesspool Service.

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