3 Tips for Cleaning After a Flood

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Cleaning after a flood it's necessary to avoid other serious damages.

If your property has been damaged by a home flood, prompt cleanup is essential for preventing additional damage, such as mold, mildew, or rot. These three tips can help you get started.

1. Stay Safe

Floodwater often contains contaminants and can pose an electrocution or drowning hazard. Always check with local authorities before attempting to enter a flooded home. Have the power and gas service to your home shut off and avoid entering if there are any power lines down in the area. Wear protective clothing or contact a professional restoration company in Washington, NC, to ensure safety during the cleaning and drying process.

2. Remove Wet Materials

Drying out your home as quickly as possible is essential for avoiding mold growth. Remove wet carpet, furniture, and bedding within 24 hours of a home flood, if possible. Keep the damaged contents on site until your insurance adjuster has had a chance to look at them. Carpets, rugs, carpet pads, upholstered furniture, and mattresses will usually need to be replaced. Discard food items, other than commercially canned products that may be salvaged if the labels are removed and the cans are cleaned and sanitized.

3. Prepare the Site for Cleaning

When floodwater from storm damage recedes, it often leaves silt and mud behind. Remove this with a shovel and then wash hard surfaces with a water hose. Wood floors and subfloors exposed to water will likely need to be removed. Flooded walls should be opened to prevent mold growth, decay, and odors in the wall studs. Pump water out of your basement gradually. Use fans and dehumidifiers and open windows and doors to help with the drying process.

While it is important to wait until it is safe to attempt to enter a structure after a home flood, quick action is necessary to reduce additional damage. Contact your local authorities and insurance professional for additional guidance on the cleanup and restoration process.