Home Affected By Flood Damage? Here's What To Do Next!
After the recent series of severe thunderstorms, many homeowners in Austin, MN, and surrounding areas are experiencing basement flooding. While discovering water damage can feel overwhelming, there is flooded basement repair near you! Read our blog below about how taking the right steps early can help keep your family safe, make the recovery process more manageable, and why American Waterworks is the best waterproofing basement company for your home.
Prioritize Safety First
After a flood, it's natural to want to jump straight into cleanup. However, before assessing damage or salvaging belongings, it's important to make sure your home is safe. Taking a few precautionary steps can help protect your family and prevent additional risks during the recovery process (Corrin, 2018).
Start by:
- Turning off power and gas service to affected areas whenever it is safe to do so.
- Inspecting your home's foundation, floors, walls, and windows for signs of damage.
- Wearing proper protective equipment such as waterproof gloves, boots, safety glasses, and a mask.
- Keeping a first aid kit nearby, washing your hands frequently, and making sure everyone has access to clean drinking water.
How to Clean Up After a Flood
Before cleanup begins, gather the appropriate supplies for the job. Floodwater can leave behind dirt, debris, and contaminants, so it's important to use cleaning products that are designed to thoroughly clean and sanitize affected surfaces. Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure products are used safely and effectively.
While every flooding situation is different, following a systematic cleanup process can help limit additional damage and reduce the risk of mold growth (Corrin, 2018).
1. Remove Standing Water
The sooner standing water is removed, the better. Depending on how much water entered your basement, you may need buckets, a pump, or a wet/dry vacuum to help clear the area.
2. Remove Unsalvageable Materials
Water-damaged materials can quickly become breeding grounds for mold and bacteria. Dispose of items that cannot be thoroughly cleaned or restored, including heavily damaged carpet, furniture, and other matierals.
3. Remove Mud and Debris
If floodwater brought mud or sediment into your home, remove it as quickly as possible. Cleaning is much easier before mud hardens and dries onto the surfaces.
4. Clean and Dry Walls
Walls exposed to floodwater should be cleaned thoroughly and allowed to dry completely. Lingering moisture inside wall materials can create conditions that increase mold growth.
5. Clean Floors and Wood Surfaces
Floodwater often leaves behind dirt and contaminants. Scrubbing flooring and wood surfaces soon after the water has been removed can help protect these materials from further damage.
6. Eliminate Excess Moisture
Even after visible water is gone, moisture can remain trapped in building materials. Fans, ventilation, and dehumidifiers can help speed up the drying process and create a healthier indoor environment.
How American Waterworks Can Help Prevent Future Flooding
Once your basement is clean and dry, the next step is making sure you don't have to go through the same experience again. American Waterworks offers proven leaky basement repair designed to help protect your home from future water intrusion.
Installed along the perimeter of your basement, the WaterGuard drainage system is designed to capture water before it reaches your basement floor. Unlike traditional drain tile systems, it is installed above the footing to help reduce the risk of clogging from soil and sediment.
A reliable sump pump is essential during heavy rain. The TripleSafe Sump Pump System provides three levels of protection, including a battery backup system that keeps working during power outages when homeowners need it most.
If water is entering through basement walls, the CleanSpace Vapor Barrier can help. This durable vapor barrier directs water seepage into your drainage system while creating a cleaner, brighter basement environment.
Even after water is removed, excess humidity can linger. An Aprilaire dehumidifer helps control moisture levels, creating a healthier and more comfortable basement while reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
Protect Your Home and Peace of Mind
Whether you're dealing with major water damage or a small basement leak, American Waterworks has solutions designed to keep your home dry and protected. Our experienced Design Specialists and crews are here to help with your home's unique needs and recommend the right waterproofing solutions for lasting protection. Schedule your FREE, no-obligation estimate today!
Resources:
Corrin, D., & Stone, D. (2018). Cleaning up after a flood | UMN extension. https://extension.umn.edu/disaster-preparedness-and-recovery/cleaning-after-flood