Leaking Toilet Disaster: How We Restored a Home in Columbia, MO

A Call from a Concerned Homeowner



When the homeowner called us, they were understandably worried about the extent of the damage. Water had seeped into the ceiling, drywall, insulation, baseboards, and even the tile flooring in the bathrooms. The ceilings were sagging, and there was a real concern about mold growth. Our team knew that we needed to act fast to avoid further structural damage and to ensure the home would be safe and livable again.

Steps We Took

To restore the homeowner's lower level after extensive water damage, we followed a systematic approach to ensure the property was dried out, cleaned, and safe for future use.

Initial Inspection and Moisture Measurement

When we arrived, we thoroughly inspected the area using a moisture meter to detect the level of water saturation. This helped us determine the extent of the damage and decide which materials needed to be removed.

Setting Up Containment Barriers

To prevent contamination and moisture from spreading to unaffected parts of the home, we installed containment barriers around the impacted rooms. This step was important to keep the rest of the house protected while we worked.

Removal of Affected Materials

Next, we started removing the damaged materials. This included taking down the wet drywall, pulling out the baseboards, and removing the blown-in insulation in the ceiling. The tile flooring in the bathrooms also had to be pulled up, as water had seeped underneath it.

Water Extraction and Drying

Even after the homeowner’s efforts to remove the visible water, there was still moisture trapped in the materials and structure. Here’s how we handled the drying process step by step:

1. Setting Up Dehumidifiers: We placed industrial-grade dehumidifiers in key areas of the lower level. These units worked to pull moisture from the air, speeding up the drying of wet surfaces and materials.
2. Positioning Air Movers: Air movers were strategically set up to circulate air throughout the affected rooms. 
3. 24/7 Operation: Both the dehumidifiers and air movers were left running continuously to ensure consistent drying. 
4. Monitoring Progress: We regularly checked moisture levels throughout the drying process to confirm the effectiveness of the equipment.

Antimicrobial Treatment

Once the wet materials were removed and the area was dry, we sprayed an antimicrobial solution to prevent mold from growing. We then used a HEPA vacuum to remove any dust, debris, or spores that may have been left behind.

Monitoring and Final Inspection

Over the next few days, we monitored the drying process and made sure the moisture levels were within safe limits. After confirming that everything was properly dried out, we performed a final inspection to ensure no further issues would arise.

A Restored and Safe Home

By the end of the job, the homeowner’s lower level was completely dried out and the damaged materials had been removed. While there was still some rebuilding to do, the home was now free of water damage and safe for the family to use again. 

Contact Us Today: Don’t Let a Leaking Toilet Turn into a Bigger Problem!

At ABC Environmental Contracting Services in Columbia, we specialize in fast and effective water mitigation solutions. If you’re facing water damage, contact us today for a thorough inspection and restoration plan tailored to your needs. Let us help you restore your home to its former glory! Call us now at (573) 928-2668 or fill out an online form on our website.