Many homeowners understand the importance of waterproofing their basements. However, some might be unaware of what steps to take if they experience a flood.
Would you know what to do after a basement flooding? Many homeowners understand the importance of waterproofing their basements. However, some might be unaware of what steps to take if they experience a flood. A waterproofed basement will reduce the chances of this happening. Recently, we listed six reasons to invest in exterior basement waterproofing. However, if your home doesn’t have the proper protection, here are five things you should do after a basement flooding.
Remove the Water After a Basement Flooding
If the standing water is only a few inches, you should remove it by using a wet vac as soon as possible. If you don’t have one, you should buy one. For severe water damage, you’ll need to call a professional. However, if the damage is minor, you can use towels to clean up the water. Then, you should wash and dry the towels to prevent mold growth.
Dry Out the Area
Dry out the area using dehumidifiers and fans to move around the site, preventing mold and mildew growth. Keep the humidifiers at least six to eight inches away from walls for the best air circulation. Clean and wash the filters weekly to ensure the fan works efficiently. We also suggest running your air conditioning often and throwing away wet boxes.
Scrub the Floor
You can scrub vinyl tile, linoleum, and other hard surfaces with no more than a cup of chlorine bleach to one gallon of water. During this process, keep safe by wearing rubber gloves and protective eyewear. Also, keep the room well ventilated.
Inspect and Clean Gutters, Downspouts, and Drains
Put rubber gloves on and examine the basement steps and drains. Get rid of any leaves, twigs, and mud, then remove the drain screen. Use a plunger or plumber’s snake to clear the drain. Clean out the gutters and downspouts around the house.
Freeze Important Belongings
In general, you should refrain from storing anything valuable in the basement. If valuable documents are susceptible to water damage, consider putting them in the freezer quickly. This method might stop mold and mildew growth and deterioration until you can get to the assets later. Also, use concrete blocks to keep items off the floor. Additionally, plastic storage bins are more durable than cardboard boxes for basement use.
Contact Lanham Construction today to ensure your home has basement flooding protection.
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