How To Fix a Flooded Basement

10/12/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded basemente in Jamestown,NY

Despite your insurance coverage, a basement flood may be a terrible thing that can leave homeowners in complete disarray. Thankfully, the cleanup process can be straightforward and manageable. Follow the steps below to restore and protect your home from current and future flood concerns.

1. Pause and Be Safe

While it may be instinct to rush into a flooded basement and salvage everything as quickly as you can, you may want to slow down and take in your surroundings. Floodwater presents both slip and fall and shock hazards. Before entering the damaged area, turn off the electricity and put on protective clothing, like rubber boots and gloves.

2. Drain and Tear Out

Cleanup from a basement flood often requires the removal of excess water and the tear out of drywall and insulation, depending on the extent of the damage. You can rent a variety of pumps, either submersible or above ground, to quickly remove water. When removing drywall and insulation, consider tearing away material at least 20 inches above the water line to prevent any mold growth.

3. Discard and Salvage

While many items may have sentimental value, be aware that porous objects like clothing and paper can carry bacteria and produce mold after a flood. Additionally, any appliances that were touched by the water may require inspection by a professional in Jamestown,NY, before further use. The main thing is to remove any sign of contamination.

4. Plan and Prepare

After a flood, you can install backflow valves, and sump pumps to help protect against basement flood reoccurrence. You may also want to inspect the grade of your landscaping as well to ensure that your homes drainage systems are in peak shape. Installation of preventative measures and routine maintenance can help prevent this type of disaster from happening again.

A basement flood can be a damaging and upsetting event. From the lost memories to the worrisome costs, a flood can be detrimental to homeowners. However, by following the above steps and preparing for potential future risks, homeowners can begin to ease even their worst concerns.