The short answer
First Steps After Finding a Leak
Turn off the water at the main shutoff valve right away. In a hot, dry climate, keep the valve location written down so you can find it fast during an emergency. Then move furniture, rugs, and artwork away from the wet area. Place aluminum foil or plastic sheeting under furniture legs to stop moisture from soaking into wood floors.
Remove any standing water with towels or a wet vacuum, but do not rub surfaces. Blot gently instead. Open windows and use fans to increase airflow, but avoid direct heat on plaster or wallpaper. Heat can cause cracking or shrinkage. Take photos of the leak and the damaged areas before you clean anything, because your insurance company will want a clear record.
Protecting Original Materials
Historic homes often have plaster walls, lath, and old-growth wood that need special care. Do not scrape wet plaster or pull up wood planks quickly. Let the pros assess the situation, because they understand how older materials dry without warping or splitting. If you have original wallpaper, avoid touching it while wet, as it can tear easily.
For wood floors, do not use a standard steam mop or excessive water. Blot up moisture and place fans at a low setting to circulate air. If you have a crawlspace below the leak, check there too. Moisture can travel downward and cause rot in floor joists or subflooring over time.
- Blot wet surfaces instead of rubbing them
- Keep fans at a low setting for gentle drying
- Do not peel wet wallpaper or scrape plaster
- Place plastic under furniture legs to protect floors
- Document everything with photos before cleanup
- Check lower levels for moisture migration
Why Speed Matters in a Historic Home
Moisture can cause mold growth within a day or two, especially in warm, humid climates. In hot, dry regions, sudden leaks can still lead to mold if left unattended. Acting quickly reduces the risk of mold and limits damage to porous materials like plaster, brick, and wood.
However, speed does not mean rushing the drying process. You need to remove the water source and start drying right away, but you also need to let materials dry slowly and evenly. Too much heat or aggressive dehumidifying can cause old wood to crack and plaster to crumble. The pros use specialized equipment to control the drying rate.
When to Call Local Water Damage Pros
If the leak is large, the water has spread, or you suspect hidden damage in walls or under floors, call local water damage pros. They have tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to find water you cannot see. They also know how to dry out historic structures without causing additional harm.
Before the pros take over, you can remove wet rugs and upholstered furniture to an outdoor area if the weather is dry. Do not move heavy furniture by yourself if it is soaked, as it may be very heavy. The pros will handle the extraction and drying, but your quick action can save personal items and reduce the workload.
Working with Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company soon after you have documented the damage. Ask what your policy covers, including the cost of drying, repairs, and any temporary housing if needed. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Do not throw away damaged items until the adjuster has seen them or given you permission.
Keep a detailed list of everything that was damaged, including the age and approximate value of items. This helps with any claim you file. Also, save receipts for any materials you buy for temporary fixes, like fans or tarps. Your insurer may reimburse you for those costs, but only if they are covered under your policy.
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Call (469) 698-4610 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (469) 698-4610Frequently asked questions
Can I dry a historic home with a regular dehumidifier?
A regular household dehumidifier can help in a small area, but it may not be powerful enough for a large leak. Also, it can dry the air too fast, causing plaster to crack. The pros use industrial dehumidifiers that maintain a steady humidity level, which is safer for old materials.
Will my insurance cover the cost of drying and repairs?
It depends on your policy and the cause of the leak. Some policies cover water damage from sudden events, but not gradual leaks. Check your policy documents and talk to your insurance company. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Should I try to remove wet plaster myself?
No. Wet plaster is fragile and can easily crack or crumble if you try to remove it. The pros have experience with plaster and lath systems and can remove only the damaged sections while preserving the rest. Trying to fix it yourself may cause more damage and cost more later.