Water can cause a lot of damage in a short period of time, but there are other issues that can make the situation worse if fast action is not taken. At some time between 24-48 hours, you can expect to see some early mold growth and there may be bacterial contamination. It’s essential to get the water pumped out of the home quickly and the areas must be dried to reduce the damage to your home. It’s a good idea to use dehumidifiers to remove as much moisture from the air as possible. Let’s take a look at these water damage repair issues in a little more detail.
Avoid Entering the Home Too Early
We understand that time is of the essence, but wading blindly through flood water can be dangerous. You may be injured and your life could be at risk, which will not improve the situation for anyone. If you’ve experienced recent flooding, stay out of the home and call your local certified plumber for expert help. It’s fair to assume that the floodwater will be contaminated with E.coli, bacteria and a variety of other pathogens. Another risk is a downed power line that electrifies the water and causes electrocution.
Pumping Out Water Safely
If the water damage is minimal, it may be possible to save a flooded home. But, it’s important to understand that some homes cannot be salvaged after a major flood has occurred. If your home is on land that’s heavily saturated with floodwater, it can push up against the foundations. This can make the property unstable and it may be necessary to wait until the water has subsided and the ground has dried. Once the foundations are more secure, the water can be pumped away and the repairs can begin.
The Need for Mold Remediation
Removing the standing water from your home is only the first step in the water damage restoration process. As we mentioned in the introduction to this article, you can expect to see mold growth soon after flooding. Mold remediation is needed to prevent the spread of mold spores throughout your home. The exact method to control and remove mold will vary depending on the size and layout of your home and the extent of the water damage.
Contact the Insurance Company
Most homeowner insurance policies should cover water damage caused by faulty plumbing. But, you would need some separate flood insurance to cover any potential damage caused by a force of nature and this includes flooding. Contact your insurance company early, make sure you know what is covered and document the damage caused. Taking notes and pictures at this stage can help with your claim later.
Preventing Future Flooding Damage
If you live in a flood prone area, it’s a good idea to contact your local certified plumber and ask them about a sump pump installation. This can be placed in the crawlspace or basement at the lowest point in your home. When water does flow into your property, it will collect at the sump pump pit where it can be pumped away safely. If you live on a slope, you may want to get the exterior graded professionally to direct water away from your home.
If you have any concerns about water damage or you need to prepare your home to deal with flooding, contact your local certified plumber today.
