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How Do You Handle Restoration of a Flooded Print Shop?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

First Steps After the Flood

Your first move is to cut the water supply and shut off electricity to the affected areas. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix, so if you cannot reach the breaker safely, call an electrician. Move any dry paper, ink, and finished products to a higher, dry area to protect them from further damage.

Document the damage for your insurance records with photos and a written list. Do not throw anything away until you have an idea of what is salvageable. If you live in Detroit, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act quickly in an emergency.

Sorting Through Wet Materials

Paper products absorb water fast and become fragile. Wet paper can swell, tear, and stick together, so handle it gently. Separate items by how soaked they are and what they are made of. Ink and toner can smear, so avoid touching printed surfaces more than necessary.

Some materials, like coated paper and certain inks, may be beyond saving. Others, like unopened reams of paper, might dry if done carefully. For valuable prints or unique documents, a professional with experience in artwork restoration can advise on the right approach.

  • Turn off power and water before entering
  • Move dry items to a safe area
  • Photograph everything for insurance
  • Separate wet paper by type and damage level
  • Do not throw away items until you are sure

Drying and Cleaning Equipment

Printing presses, copiers, and computers contain electronic parts that can corrode quickly. Do not turn on any equipment that has been submerged until it is completely dry and inspected. A professional in electronics restoration can clean and test internal components to see what works.

For non-electronic parts, like metal frames and plastic covers, you can wipe them down and dry them with fans. Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours in humid conditions, so keep air moving and control moisture. If you notice a musty smell, mold may already be forming.

Handling Ink and Chemical Spills

Floodwater can mix with inks, solvents, and cleaning chemicals, creating a hazardous mess. Wear gloves and a mask if you need to handle any contaminated materials. Do not try to clean up chemical spills yourself if you are unsure what they are. Contact a hazardous waste professional for guidance.

You should also be aware that floodwater itself can contain sewage and bacteria. Anything that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected should be thrown away. See a doctor if you feel unwell after handling flood-damaged items, as infections are a risk.

Getting Professional Help

Restoring a print shop is complex because it involves paper, electronics, and chemicals. Local water damage pros can assess the extent of the damage and recommend what to do. They have industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and cleaning agents that you may not have access to.

The cost of professional restoration varies widely. It often depends on the size of the shop, how much water entered, and what equipment is affected. Some items may be cheaper to replace than to restore. Your insurance company can help you understand what your policy covers.

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

  • Ask about their experience with commercial spaces
  • Get a written plan before any work starts
  • Check if they handle hazardous materials
  • Ask how they handle insurance-related paperwork
  • Keep records of all communication

Talk to someone now

Call (313) 766-2970 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

Call Now (313) 766-2970

Frequently asked questions

Can wet paper be saved?

Sometimes, if you act fast. Unprinted paper may dry if separated and air-dried slowly. Printed pages often smear or stick together, making them hard to salvage. For valuable documents, consult an artwork restoration professional.

How long does drying take?

Drying can take several days to weeks, depending on how wet things are and the humidity. Using fans and dehumidifiers speeds up the process. In a humid climate, like Detroit's, you need to keep air moving to prevent mold.

Should I turn on my equipment to test it?

No. Turning on wet electronics can cause short circuits and permanent damage. Wait until everything is completely dry and have an electronics professional inspect it first. They can clean and test components safely.

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