Where to Start After Water Damage
This month got off to a rough start for East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. Experiencing a flood is a devastating event for homeowners and businesses alike. Water damage doesn’t just affect the aesthetics of a building—it can cause structural issues, mold growth, and ruin possessions. Acting quickly and effectively in the aftermath of a flood is crucial for minimizing damage and restoring the space to its pre-flood condition.
Let’s walk you through the essential steps you should take after a flood or any other water damage for that matter and explain why professional help is critical for restoration.
Ensure Safety First
Right now during clean up, you need to prioritize safety. Floodwater can pose several health and safety risks, including electrical hazards, structural damage, and contamination. Start with these key safety measures:
- Turn Off Power and Gas: Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If it's safe to do so, shut off the electricity and gas to your home or business at the main breaker and valve to avoid the risk of electrocution or fire.
- Wear Protective Gear: Floodwater may contain harmful contaminants such as sewage, chemicals, or bacteria. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves, boots, and masks, when entering a flooded area.
- Avoid Deep Water: If floodwaters are still present or receding slowly, avoid walking through deep or fast-moving water, as it can conceal hazards like sharp debris or weak flooring.
- Check Structural Integrity: If your home or business has been severely flooded, there may be structural damage to the foundation, walls, or roof. If you suspect any instability, be sure to engage a professional to assess the situation before entering.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Once safety is ensured, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage and begin the claims process. Time is of the essence, as many policies have specific deadlines for reporting flood damage. Here are some key steps for insurance claims but your insurance provider will be sure to walk you through the details. Rely on them for exactly what you need to provide:
- Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the water damage, including affected rooms, possessions, and structural issues. This documentation will be crucial when filing your insurance claim.
- List Damaged Items: Make an inventory of all damaged items and, if possible, provide proof of purchase or value (such as receipts or appraisals).
- Keep Damaged Materials: While you may want to start cleanup right away, it’s important not to discard damaged materials or items until your insurance adjuster has had a chance to assess them.
- Review Your Policy: Flood coverage varies depending on your policy. It’s essential to review your coverage to understand what’s included and what steps to take to maximize your claim.
Start the Water Removal Process
After contacting your insurance company and documenting the damage, the next priority is removing any standing water. The longer water remains in your home or business, the greater the damage, as water seeps into walls, floors, and furniture. This step may involve professional equipment, especially for large-scale flooding. Water removal methods include:
- Use a Sump Pump: For substantial amounts of water, a sump pump can help remove water quickly and efficiently. These pumps are often used in basements or areas that have accumulated a large volume of water.
- Wet/Dry Vacuum: For smaller pools of water, a wet/dry vacuum can be an effective tool for water extraction. This works well for carpets, flooring, and upholstery.
- Mop and Bucket: In less severe cases, manually removing the water with mops and buckets may be sufficient, although more time-consuming.
- Hire Professionals: For large floods or when dealing with contaminated water (such as from a sewer backup), it’s best to hire water damage restoration professionals. They have the proper equipment, such as industrial pumps and vacuums, and the expertise to safely remove water.
Dry and Dehumidify the Space
Even after all standing water has been removed, dampness can linger in walls, floors, and furniture, potentially leading to mold and mildew growth. Drying out your space thoroughly is crucial to prevent long-term damage and health risks. To help the drying process you may consider:
- Open Windows and Doors: Ventilation is key to speeding up the drying process. If weather conditions allow, open windows and doors to let in fresh air.
- Use Fans and Dehumidifiers: Place fans in affected areas to help circulate air and speed up the drying process. Dehumidifiers can remove moisture from the air, helping to prevent mold growth.
- Remove Wet Materials: Carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture that have been saturated with water should be removed and dried separately or discarded if they are beyond salvage.
- Inspect Hidden Areas: Check under floors, inside walls, and behind cabinets for moisture that may have seeped into hard-to-reach areas. It’s critical to ensure all hidden moisture is addressed to avoid mold.
Prevent Mold Growth
Mold can begin to develop within 24 to 48 hours of a flood. Therefore, it’s vital to take proactive steps to prevent mold growth during the restoration process. Mold not only damages property but can also pose serious health risks, especially for those with allergies, asthma, or weakened immune systems. To prevent mold:
- Remove Water-Damaged Materials: Porous materials such as drywall, insulation, and ceiling tiles are prone to mold growth once they’ve been waterlogged. Remove these materials if they cannot be thoroughly dried within 24 to 48 hours.
- Clean with Disinfectants: Use disinfectants or a bleach solution to clean and sanitize all surfaces exposed to floodwater, especially those made of wood, concrete, or other materials that may absorb moisture.
- Monitor for Signs of Mold: Keep an eye out for musty smells or visible signs of mold growth (such as black or green spots on walls or ceilings). If mold is present, it’s important to call in professionals to safely remove it.
Call in the Professionals
While some water damage can be handled with DIY methods, larger or more complex situations require the expertise of a professional water damage restoration company. Hiring professionals ensures that the restoration process is done thoroughly and safely, preventing long-term structural damage and health risks. The benefits of professional restoration include:
- Advanced Equipment: Professionals use industrial-grade equipment for water extraction, drying, and dehumidification, which is more effective than standard home tools.
- Expertise in Mold Prevention: Restoration experts can assess moisture levels in hidden areas and apply antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold from forming.
- Comprehensive Cleanup: A professional team will handle all aspects of the cleanup, from water removal to sanitizing, saving you time and effort.
- Restoration and Repair: Beyond cleanup, many water damage companies also offer repair services, ensuring your home or business is restored to its pre-flood condition.
Plan for Future Flood Prevention
Once the immediate restoration process is complete, take steps to protect your property from future floods. Flood prevention strategies include:
- Install Sump Pumps: Ensure your basement has a functioning sump pump and consider installing a backup battery in case of power outages during storms.
- Waterproofing: Invest in waterproofing your foundation and basement walls to reduce the likelihood of future water infiltration.
- Elevate Electrical Components: If you live in a flood-prone area, consider elevating electrical outlets, appliances, and HVAC systems to minimize damage during floods.
- Landscaping: Proper grading and drainage around your home or business can help redirect water away from the foundation.
This flood event is heartbreaking and affected so many people in our region. If you are needing help, please reach out to MB&R Contractors. We have a highly skilled team and machinery that can help expedite the clean up process. We want to love our community and share Jesus’ love.
MB&R Contractors has a highly skilled staff and executes all construction work with our in-house team. We follow this model to control the quality of work provided to our clients and ensure we stay on budget and deliver our work on time. We do projects of all sizes and our services include: welding, concrete installation, steel work from fabrication to steel buildings, water control, dump truck services, and much more. MB&R Contractors takes on residential, commercial, and industrial jobs with our own in-house team.