When Disaster Strikes: A Step-by-Step Guide to Water Damage Restoration

- and keeping your home safe should always be one of them. June is Home Safety Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and take action to prevent common risks like fire, water damage, and storm-related destruction. At Ehlers Construction, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly disaster can strike. That’s why we’re passionate about not only restoring what’s been lost - but helping you protect your home before problems start. Fire Safety Starts at Home A house fire can be devastating, but many causes are preventable with regular upkeep and awareness. Here are a few things every homeowner should stay on top of: Check your fire extinguishers — Make sure they’re not expired and stored in accessible areas like kitchens and garages. Inspect outlets and appliances — Look for frayed cords, overloaded power strips, and outdated electrical systems. Keep cooking areas clear — Never leave food unattended on the stove, and avoid storing flammable items near heat sources. And while we’re always here to handle the rebuild after a fire, our priority is helping you avoid that call in the first place. The Hidden Danger of Water Damage Water damage often goes unnoticed until it becomes a major (and expensive) problem. Slow leaks, overflows, and poor drainage can all lead to structural damage, mold growth, and even health concerns. Key ways to reduce your risk: Keep an eye on bubbling paint, warped floors, or musty smells — These are common signs of water hiding behind walls. Know where your water shut-off is — A fast response can limit damage during a burst pipe or overflowing toilet. Clean gutters and downspouts regularly — Proper drainage keeps water away from your foundation. Prevention saves money — and stress. But if water has already made its way in, we’re here to restore your space from the ground up. Storm Damage Can Sneak Up Fast Oregon storms bring high winds, falling limbs, and heavy rains. Even a small roof issue can turn into a major leak when weather hits. Ways to storm-proof your home: Inspect your roof and flashing for loose shingles, improper patching, and potential entry points. Trim overhanging branches near your roof or windows. Secure outdoor furniture and structures before storms roll in. If storm damage occurs, quick action is critical. Ehlers Construction offers emergency response to minimize damage and begin repairs right away. When You Need Help, Know Who to Call Some emergencies can’t be avoided — but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Ehlers Construction is your trusted partner for: Fire, water, and storm damage restoration 24/7 emergency services Insurance coordination Complete rebuilds and remodeling when needed We’ve been helping homeowners repair and restore for decades. Whether you're facing damage now or just want peace of mind, we’re here to help. 📞 Contact Us Ready to schedule an inspection or need emergency assistance? Contact the team who puts your home’s safety first. Ehlers Construction 📞 541-689-6177 🌐 EhlersInc.net 🔧 CCB #4231 📍 Serving Eugene, Springfield & surrounding areas

Ehlers Construction offers fast, expert fire damage restoration service in Cottage Grove, OR. Contact (541) 689-6177 now for immediate help.

Water damage is one of the most stressful and costly issues a homeowner can face. Whether it’s from a burst pipe, heavy rain, or a leaky roof, the aftermath can escalate quickly if not handled correctly. At Ehlers Construction, we specialize in professional water damage restoration in Eugene, OR —and we’ve seen firsthand how avoidable mistakes can make a bad situation worse. Here are the top mistakes homeowners make after water damage—and how our experienced team helps fix them. 1. Waiting Too Long to Act Time is critical. Water seeps into floors, walls, and insulation within minutes—and mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours. One of the biggest mistakes is waiting to call a professional, either out of shock or thinking the damage is minor. At Ehlers Construction, we respond quickly to water damage in Eugene, OR, with fast extraction and drying solutions to minimize long-term impact. 2. Attempting DIY Cleanup Without Proper Tools Shop vacs and box fans can’t reach hidden moisture trapped in subfloors, drywall, or structural framing. DIY cleanup often leaves behind water that leads to mold, odor, and rot. Our water damage restoration team in Eugene uses industrial-grade equipment to remove moisture thoroughly and restore your home safely and efficiently. 3. Ignoring Signs of Structural Damage Water weakens structural materials over time. Sagging ceilings, warped floors, and soft drywall are all red flags—but many homeowners overlook them in the rush to clean up. Ehlers Construction performs complete structural assessments to ensure your home is stable and safe before repairs begin. 4. Using Household Cleaners That Can Worsen the Damage Some cleaning products are not designed for water damage or mold. They may bleach surfaces or cause chemical reactions that worsen the damage. We use safe, specialized cleaning solutions that disinfect, deodorize, and preserve materials wherever possible. 5. Incomplete Insurance Documentation Filing a water damage insurance claim can be overwhelming. Many homeowners forget to document everything properly—resulting in denied or underpaid claims. Our team helps you navigate the process by providing detailed photos, written assessments, and damage reports that support your claim every step of the way. Let Ehlers Construction Handle Your Water Damage Restoration in Eugene, OR From the moment water enters your home, the clock starts ticking. The sooner you bring in professionals, the better your chances of a smooth, stress-free recovery. Ehlers Construction is trusted by homeowners throughout Eugene, OR for fast, thorough, and expert water damage restoration services. If you’re dealing with water damage—don’t wait. Contact Ehlers Construction today to schedule your inspection and get the help you need. 541-689-6177