DIY vs Pro: Fixing Water Damage in the Garage

If the water came from a small spill or a leak that you stopped quickly, you might handle it yourself. Dry the area with fans and dehumidifiers, wipe down surfaces, and check for any lingering dampness. For a patch of wet concrete or a damp cardboard box, this can be enough.

Keep in mind that garage floors are often concrete, which can hold moisture for a long time. You can test by taping a plastic sheet to the floor overnight. If water beads underneath the next day, you still have moisture to deal with. In that case, keep drying and ventilating.

• Small spills that you clean up right away
• Damp spots on concrete that dry within a day
• Wet items like boxes or tools that you can dry
• A leak from a hose or faucet that you fixed

Before you start any DIY work, make sure the area is safe. Turn off the power to the garage if there is standing water, and wear gloves and a mask if you are cleaning up debris. If the water is contaminated, do not touch it without protection.

You will need basic tools like a wet/dry vacuum, fans, a dehumidifier, and a moisture meter. These can be rented from a hardware store if you do not own them. But remember, using them correctly takes some know-how, and you have to be patient.

If the damage is significant, your insurance company might cover part of the cost. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if water damage from a specific cause, like a burst pipe or a storm, is included.

Document everything with photos, notes, and receipts. This helps if you file a claim. Keep records of what you did for DIY work, or what the pros did if you hire them. This can also be useful if you decide to sell your home later.