Water Damage Cleanup & Safety Tips

6/13/2022 (Permalink)

Standing water is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Extracting this water and drying in a timely manner is essential for prevention.

If a house has had a flood, ensure you confirm its safety before entering it. Check for structural damage and electrical hazards while using protective wear such as respirators, and gloves. After these, you can follow the following safety tips:

Act Fast

The seriousness of water damage rises fast as the water stays stagnant, and your house and its contents are soaked in water. Therefore, be quick on time. Molds grow in a short time, within 48 hours. To ensure you contain the flood damages, contact professionals like the SERVPRO of Winter Park to help remove and dry out the water before the molds begin to grow.

Ensure There Is Enough Circulation Of Air In The Affected Areas To Avoid Mold From Growing

Mold thrives in organic materials like particleboard or paper and moisture. To reduce or stop the damage, you can open windows and place fans in the rooms to allow air circulation and maintain average temperatures. When cleaning, work as you go towards the fan to reduce cross-contamination.

Check The Damage Water Has Made To Your Equipment

Assess the water type that has flooded your houses, such as contaminated river water, rainwater, sewage-filled with bacteria, or water from broken pipes. You can salvage your items in many ways. However, the decision to save the items will depend on the sentimental and dollar value of the item to the owner. Things like mattresses, pillows, pads, carpets, box springs, and dry walls may not be worth saving.

At the same time, things like leather couches, heirlooms, and Persian rugs may be worth saving. Wet household fabrics and clothing can be salvaged easily using a washing machine and soaking in hot water and detergent for approximately ten minutes. This will assist remove stains and contamination.

Uncover Pockets Of Saturation

Pockets of saturation, both concealed and hidden ones, must be exposed to be cleaned and dried. Building materials can hold layers of water between them that you will need to discover and dry.

Carry Out A Thorough Cleaning

Clean non-porous and semi-porous materials like hardwood flooring, vinyl products, studs, and joists with regular cleaning products. When cleaning, protect the areas not affected by the flood or mold. When you finish your thorough cleaning of the items you were able to save, apply a disinfectant solution in case they were in contact with harmful bacteria. The harmful bacteria may be from river water debris, stagnant water, or sewage.

Ensure Your House Is Dry Before Reconstruction

To avoid structural damage and dry root, it is essential not to reconstruct or cover with wood the wet areas. Therefore, ensure the site has adequately low moisture content. With the help of professionals, they can help you confirm if the house has sufficiently dried before reconstructing.