The short answer
Stop the Water Source
First, shut off the water supply to your duplex. If the leak is from a pipe or appliance, turn off the main valve, which is often near the water meter or where the utility line enters the building. If you live in Layton, keep your shutoff valve location written down for emergencies. For a roof leak, place a bucket under the drip and temporarily cover the roof with a tarp if safe.
Once the water is off, check for electrical hazards. If water has reached outlets, switches, or appliances, turn off power at the breaker panel. Do not touch anything wet if you suspect live electricity. If you are unsure about safety, leave the area and call a local water damage pro. The pros can also help locate hidden leaks using specialized equipment.
Remove Standing Water
Use a wet/dry vacuum to extract as much standing water as possible from floors and carpets. For large amounts of water, a sump pump may be needed, but for a duplex, a vacuum and mop are often enough. Work from the wettest area outward, and wring out mops into a bucket outside. Open windows and doors to create cross-ventilation.
Do not forget to check crawl spaces, basements, and wall cavities where water may have pooled. Use a flashlight to inspect dark corners. If you have a subfloor, water may have seeped under flooring; consider lifting a corner of carpet to check. The pros use moisture meters to find hidden water, but you can start by feeling for dampness with your hands.
- Wet/dry vacuum for carpets and hard floors
- Mop and bucket for small puddles
- Towels or rags to blot surfaces
- Sump pump for deep standing water
- Shop fan to direct air movement
- Dehumidifier to reduce humidity
Dry Out Walls and Floors
After removing standing water, focus on drying porous materials. Use fans to circulate air across walls, floors, and furniture. Aim fans at baseboards and corners where moisture hides. A dehumidifier helps pull moisture from the air, which speeds up drying. Keep windows open if outdoor humidity is lower than indoor humidity.
For drywall, cut small holes near the floor to allow air into the wall cavity. Remove wet insulation, as it holds water and promotes mold. If flooring is saturated, you may need to lift and remove it. The pros often use industrial dehumidifiers and air movers, but for a duplex, you can rent equipment from a tool rental store.
- Run fans 24/7 for the first few days
- Set dehumidifier to below 50% humidity
- Cut 6-inch holes in drywall to ventilate
- Remove wet insulation and discard
- Lift carpet and pad to dry subfloor
- Check baseboards for swelling or warping
Prevent Mold Growth
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours in damp conditions. To prevent it, keep the area as dry as possible. Clean wet surfaces with a mild detergent and water, then dry thoroughly. Use a disinfectant on non-porous surfaces like tile and metal. Do not mix cleaning products, as fumes can be harmful.
If you see mold growth, do not disturb it, as spores can spread. For small patches on hard surfaces, you can clean with soap and water. For larger areas or porous materials, you may need to remove and replace them. The pros can handle mold remediation, but for now, focus on drying and ventilation. If you feel unwell from mold exposure, see a doctor.
When to Call the Pros
Some water damage is beyond a homeowner's ability to dry. If the water came from sewage, floodwater, or has been sitting for more than 48 hours, call a local water damage pro. They have industrial equipment and know how to dry structures safely. The pros can also inspect for hidden moisture using moisture meters and thermal cameras.
If you are unsure about the extent of damage, a water damage inspection can help. The pros will identify what is wet and what needs replacement. They can also help with document drying if important papers got wet. Remember that drying a duplex takes time, often several days to a week, depending on the severity. Your insurance policy may cover some costs, but policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry out a duplex after water damage?
Drying time depends on how much water, what materials are wet, and airflow. With fans and dehumidifiers, it can take several days to a week. Porous materials like drywall and carpet take longer. The pros use industrial equipment to speed up the process.
Can I use my home dehumidifier to dry out the duplex?
Yes, a home dehumidifier helps, but it may be too small for large areas. Place it in the wettest room and empty the water regularly. For bigger jobs, rent a commercial dehumidifier. Keep doors closed in that room to improve efficiency.
What should I throw away after water damage?
Throw away wet insulation, carpet padding, and contaminated drywall. Also discard any food, cardboard, or paper that got wet. Keep items that can be cleaned and dried, like hard plastic or metal. When in doubt, toss it to avoid mold and health risks.