Spring Showers Can Leave Lasting Damage!

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Soaking up the sun in spring is ideal, however, April showers can leave you soaking up floodwaters instead. If you live in a high flood area, overwhelmed sewer drains can cause waters to rise around your property leading to potential water damage. Water damage is destructive and can leave lasting damage around your property. If you don’t act quickly, mold growth, rust build-up, and rotting wood may permanently damage your home. Here are a few tips on how to dry your home fast after it floods.

Electrical Safety First

Take precaution before entering areas of your home with significant amounts of water. Nearby electrical units, especially furnaces, can be dangerous and must be turned off immediately to avoid personal injury. Call the power company to disconnect electricity if needed.

Drying Up the Water

Once the floodwaters clear, dry your home as quickly as possible. Start by soaking up the water with towels, buckets, or a Shop-vac. Following this, use floor fans and open all doors and fans to improve air circulation in the house.

If needed, dehumidifiers are available to remove embedded moisture in wood floors and walls. In this case, it is important to close windows so that outdoor moisture does not enter the room.

Remove House Decor

Start by placing all furniture and rugs outside to be dried by the sun. After the furniture has been removed, it is important to check the drywall around flooded areas. Drywall may need to be cut and tossed to prevent mildew and other bacteria from growing within the walls.

The source of the floodwaters, like river water, may contain sewage or other bacterial contents. Once damaged items have been removed, make sure to disinfect all surfaces with an anti-bacterial solution or with a bleach and water mix.

Sometimes the water damage to your home is overwhelming. Insulation damage behind the walls can lead to mildew and mold. Electrical wires connected to furnaces, water heaters, or gas valves may need to be replaced if not inspected properly. Call your local SERVPRO if you are in need of professional Inspection.

If you have mold or water damage, call SERVPRO at 610-546-2484 to schedule a cleanup.  Your SERVPRO professionals have the training, certifications, and equipment to remediate mold.