Flood emergencies can occur at any moment. Broken sump pumps, storm sewer backups, burst washing machine lines, and even a failing water heater tank can all lead to a flood basement. There are steps homeowners can take to start the flood cleanup process, regardless of what caused it.
Flood water can cause damage to your walls, carpet, flooring, ceiling, and personal property if it is not removed quickly. This could lead to mold growth, bacteria growth, and unsafe conditions for your family. The flood restoration process consists of two main phases: flood water removal and flood cleanup. This includes the drying phase.
Remove Flooded Water
You may be able to reduce flood damage if there is very little water. Wet-dry vacuums or pumps can be used to remove as much flood water from the area as possible. Squeegee water into floor drains. To clear clogged floor drains, you can either plunge or use a drain snake. A rental shop will usually have a pump that you can rent to remove water from your floor drains. (Remember, diesel and gasoline engines create deadly carbon monoxide exhaust fumes. Do not use gasoline-powered pumps indoors. If you are living in Rochester, we do cover restoration Rochester NY for any kind of water damage removal in your area.
Dry the area with fans or dehumidifiers after water has been removed. This will prevent mold and mildew growth. To maximize air circulation, it is a good idea to open windows and doors if possible.
Water removal is only the first step. When removing water from a flood, simple drying methods are often inadequate. Your approach to water damage restoration depends on the type of room and contents affected.
CLEAN UP
The porous nature of carpets, upholstery, and walls means that a simple cleaning won’t be enough. Flood restoration, disinfection and deodorizing are required. Surface cleaning does not remove visible contaminants. Many microorganisms can remain behind and could cause unpleasant odors and health problems. To properly eliminate mold, bacteria and viruses, all surfaces that have been affected by water damage should be cleaned thoroughly.
All items that came in contact with floodwaters must be cleaned. There is no need to buy anything extra. Flood cleanup is possible with most household cleaners. Use a household cleaner to clean walls and other non porous surfaces. Follow up with a disinfectant for future mold growth. This can also be done with diluted bleach (1/2 cup liquid chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water). A garden spray pump, or another similar tool, can be used to spray large areas. Allow everything to air dry.
Fabric and paper items can be salvageable depending on their condition and financial or sentimental value. If in doubt, toss it. If they are safe to bleach, old toys, books and cardboard boxes, blankets, throw pillows, clothes and other items should be thrown away. Photographs, important papers, and books can be frozen. This is possible after the water has dried out and the area is dry. To address the issue later, place a sheet of waxpaper between the pages.
Carpet and padding are often not clean enough to prevent mold growth. Subflooring made from plywood or particle board is the same. You may have to remove the drywall from your basement and dispose of any insulation. Baseboard trim may also be required. You may need to remove the baseboard trim.
Disinfection
Many homeowners feel tempted to rush to repair flood damage and get on with rebuilding. However, rushing to clean up flood cleanup before it dries completely can lead to serious problems. Although it can be time-consuming, disinfecting every surface is essential to prevent mildew and mold growth. Allow for visible moisture to disappear for at least a week in flood situations. Unseen moisture, such as behind walls or inside air conduits, can take up to two weeks to completely evaporate.
Call a professional water restoration company like Lighthouse Restorations if you feel overwhelmed by the floodwater restoration process. They will begin the water cleanup process and dry the area with high quality drying and dehumidifying equipment.
Contact your insurance company. Lighthouse Restorations can work with your insurance company to make this difficult process as simple as possible.
Lighthouse Restorations’s water-restoration technicians are IICRC-certified. They can perform water extraction, remove any unsalvageable content, such as carpet, drywall, paneling or shelving, and clean all affected areas before applying disinfecting and deodorizing agents. Lighthouse Restorations will dry the entire structure and remove any water-damaged or harmful materials.
Lighthouse Restorations water damage restoration specialists are skilled at returning your home or office to normal as quickly and efficiently as possible. Lighthouse Restorations is always available 24/7/365.
