Prevent Water Damage From Flooded Basement

Water damage in a flooded basement can have devastating consequences, and the cost for repair can be significant. When leakage occurs due to a busted ice maker hose, leaving the dishwasher running while away from home, or a washing machine overflow, it can lead to major problems, not the least of which is mold growth and warping. Whatever the case may be, you must act quickly in order to minimize water damage in the home.

The first thing to do when you’ve discovered your flooded basement is to shut off the source of the water supply to the home. Before entering the basement you should put on rubber boots and gloves and then shut off the power supply.

Removing the water from the flooded basement is your first priority in order to prevent significant water damage. A sump pump is ideal for this purpose if you have one already installed. You can also use a wet/dry vacuum or even a mop and bucket if there isn’t a lot of water. However, if there is significant flooding, your best bet might be to call for a plumber.

Remove all the furniture and other items that have water damage out of the basement, and then tear out any floor covering. It’s important to get the floors clear of anything that will absorb water so the drying can begin.

Next, start the clean-up – wash down the floors and walls, remove all dirt and sediment that has been left behind by the water. Tear out all the wet, damaged drywall and insulation as soon as possible in order to prevent mold from spreading.

In Summary:

1. Remove standing water as soon as possible. Where residual water is pooled on hard surface floors, you may be able to push it out an exterior door. Using a floor squeegee or a push broom can be useful to direct water outside.

2. Reduce humidity. Very high indoor humidity is inevitable with flooding and a major cause of secondary water damage, even in areas of the home that were not affected by the initial flood. You need to get air circulating in the area quickly – open windows and, if possible, run fans to get air moving. If the air conditioner is not affected by the flooding, then get it going, too. A dehumidifier will also help get the area dry and help prevent mold growth.

3. Move out saturated stuff. Get soaked items like mattresses, cushions and throw rugs out of the house without delay. These highly absorbent items will never dry indoors and, if the floodwater came from any source other than a broken pipe, they are permanently contaminated and will have to be discarded, anyway. Most saturated materials also become sources of mold growth within just 48 hours after exposure to water, so getting them outdoors sooner rather than later is helpful.

Allow several days for your flooded basement to dry out. Leave windows and doors open to allow for ventilation, and use fans to improve air circulation. Once the floor and walls are dry, use an anti-mildew spray to discourage mold and mildew from developing. The important thing here is to work quickly and thoroughly.

We understand that not all homeowners will be able to do clean up and repair from water damage due to basement flooding themselves. That is why AAS Restoration is here to help you. Contact us today by calling (816) 861-1550 or ONLINE.