If you have ever had your basement flood, it is likely that you will want to know how to clean up. If the water is only water, then a simple mopping can usually do the trick. However, if there is any standing water, mold or mildew, and possibly sewage backup, you may need to get some professional help.
If the water will be collected at a place for an extended period then it can be the cause of various health issues. A person needs to be really careful in choosing the best option that is available for the people. He can even plan to hire professionals for handling a flooded basement. Dedication to good time will help in getting the results.
The first thing to do is make sure that you have not damaged anything while cleaning up. For instance, if you have wet carpeting, try to save as much of it as possible. If you must replace it, make sure that you use a moisture-resistant material such as cork floor tiles.
You may also be able to salvage most of the contents in the basement by using them to create makeshift drying racks. If you have furniture, such as beds, tables, and chairs, they can provide effective drying surfaces. Just place them on top of a sheet of plywood so that none of the legs touch the ground. You can also stack boxes on top of each other to form more effective drying racks.
If you have appliances that are still working, you can turn them on and leave them running for a few hours to dry out. You can also run air conditioners, fans, or dehumidifiers to speed the process along. Make sure that all electrical wires are covered with plastic wrap before turning them back on.
When it comes time to clean up, consider using an absorbent material to soak up the excess water. This could include old towels, bed sheets, or even newspapers. Also, consider using sponges; these are great for absorbing a lot of water without leaving behind a residue. Once you have removed the excess water, you should let everything dry completely before moving on to the next step.
It is important to remember that no one can guarantee that there will be no damage to your home from a flooded basement. You should always consult your insurance company about whether or not the water damage was caused by negligence. It would be wise to document this type of event in order to prevent future claims.
In addition, you should call your local environmental health department to determine whether or not there were any violations of the city’s code. Many cities and towns require that homeowners contact local authorities when a building has sustained severe damage due to flooding. In fact, many cities have set up websites where you can log complaints.
Finally, you should consult a contractor who specializes in basement waterproofing. These contractors are often called upon to repair flooded basements after floods occur. They will assess the extent of the damage and recommend repairs that are needed.
Once the repairs are complete, the contractor will return to check on the progress. He or she will remove any debris left behind and ensure that the basement is dry. When they leave, they will give you a detailed report about what needs to be done in order to protect against future flooding.
Most likely, you will find that it is a good idea to schedule regular maintenance checks with your contractor. A regular inspection will allow you to catch problems early on. It will also allow you to identify potential issues before they become major problems. By following their advice, you will avoid costly repairs down the road.
It is important to note that flooding isn’t just limited to basements. There is a chance that your entire house could flood, but you should take precautions to prevent this from happening. First, you should install sump pumps in your home to keep wastewater from overflowing into the street during heavy rainstorms.
You should also keep your gutters clear of leaves and other debris. Even small amounts of leaves can clog your drains and cause serious problems. Finally, you should regularly inspect your roof for signs of leaks or poor drainage. If there is a problem, you should quickly address it before it becomes too big to deal with.
It is also important to note that you should never attempt to clean up your own flooded basement. The last thing you want is to get sick because you didn’t properly treat the water. As previously mentioned, you should hire a professional to handle the job.
In conclusion, if you have recently experienced flooding in your home, you should contact a contractor right away. He or she will be able to help assess the damage and provide guidance on how to proceed. Most importantly, they will be able to help determine whether or not you need to file a claim with your insurance provider.
