Water mitigation and restoration are both processes used to repair damage caused by water, but they have different focuses and goals.

Water mitigation is the process of reducing or preventing the amount of water damage that occurs after a flood or leak. This includes removing standing water, drying out affected areas, and taking steps to prevent further damage. The goal of water mitigation is to minimize the amount of damage and prevent mold growth. It's typically the first step in the water damage repair process.

Restoration, on the other hand, is the process of returning a property to its pre-loss condition. This includes repairing and rebuilding damaged structures, replacing damaged or destroyed personal property, and cleaning and sanitizing the affected areas. The goal of restoration is to fully repair the damage and return the property to its original condition. It's typically the second step after water mitigation is done.

It's important to note that, in most cases, water mitigation must be done before restoration, in order to prevent further damage and make the restoration process more effective and efficient.