A burst pipe, a failed water heater, a leaking dishwasher line — water damage rarely waits for a convenient moment. What you do in the first 24 hours often decides whether you're looking at a quick dry-out or a major rebuild. Water moves fast. Within minutes it spreads across floors and wicks into drywall, baseboards and carpet pad. Within hours, wood starts to swell and furniture finishes stain. Within 24 to 48 hours, mold can begin to grow. The sooner the water is out and d