Flood Damage Cleanup

Because the water inside the basement braces the walls against the pressure of the water outside as well as the waterlogged soil, basements that have been flooded by surface water, seepage through the walls, or backflow from sewer lines frequently suffer little to no structural damage from the water.

How long does it take for mold to start growing after a flood?

After being exposed to water for 24 to 48 hours, mildew and mold will begin to grow. Worse yet, it will continue to spread unless action is taken to remove the source of the moisture and effectively deal with the mold problem. To determine the level of mold growth in your house, refer to the diagram on the page facing you.

What signs and symptoms can be associated with mold exposure?

Molds can cause allergic reactions in some people. Mold can cause these individuals to experience symptoms such as a stuffy nose, wheezing, red or itchy eyes, or skin. Other symptoms may include a rash. Certain individuals, such as those who are allergic to molds or who suffer from asthma, are more likely to have severe reactions.

How do I stay away from potential shock hazards?

In a home that has been flooded, using any electric appliance should be approached with extreme caution. Never turn on any electric appliance that is wet because doing so poses the risk of receiving an electric shock, causing the appliance to overheat, or starting a fire.

How long should I pump the water out for, and when should I do it?

It is not safe to drain water from the inside of the basement until the majority of the water that was on the outside of the walls has been removed. As a result, the floors and walls won't sag or buckle as much as they otherwise would have. It is possible that you will need to purchase or rent a sump pump in order to remove the water from your basement in the event that there is either an excessive amount of water or no basement drain. If the area of your home that houses your electrical panel has been flooded, you will not be able to use an electric sump pump unless you replace it with one that is powered by a pump that is powered by a 12-volt auto battery. It is possible to use a pump powered by a gasoline engine if the exhaust can be directed outside. If the water level in your basement is higher than the flood water level outside, you should begin pumping the water out of your basement. It's possible that you'll need a measure to figure this out. When both of the water levels reach the same height, you should stop pumping. Remove the water from the basement using the sump pump at the same rate that the flood waters are going down.

What is the best way to waterproof my basement?

Investigate options for waterproofing your basement in order to forestall future flooding in the area. To get started, check to see that your gutters and downspouts are clean throughout the entire year. When gutters become clogged, water has the potential to seep through the walls of your home and into the basement, where it can cause serious flooding and extensive water damage. Your home's rain spouts should also direct water in such a way that it travels a sufficient distance away from the structure so that it does not pool up along the exterior. A good rule of thumb is to keep a distance of five feet.