If you live close to a river or floodplain, the fundamental truth is that all basements have a propensity for flooding. The water flows down from the high ground, implying that your basement could become an aquatic pool in certain conditions.
It’s usually just a quick rainfall that may soak into the ground close to the basement. Moreover, with an inadequate waterproofing solution, water could seep through cracks in the foundations of your home. The cellar must be effectively waterproofed by a professional using a tar-based sealant. In addition, it must have a “weeping tile” that diverts water away from your basement and toward a local sewer system.
What to Do After Basement Floods
To minimize financial loss, you must act quickly. It is more likely for mold to grow if water is left in the region for a prolonged period. To minimize costs take the steps below.
Remove Water
Take out any remaining water as fast as possible. In most cases, just a couple of inches worth of water standing may be removed with a wet vac. If you do not already own a wet vac, consider purchasing either borrowing, purchasing, or renting one.
A significant water loss may require the help of a professional. If the damage is minor, towels can be used to absorb the water, but they must be dried and cleaned immediately to prevent mold growth. Look up “PuroClean of Chatham” for best results.
Dry It Out
Make use of dehumidifiers and fans to circulate the air, stopping the growth of mold and mildew. Dehumidifiers must be kept at about six to eight inches away from walls to properly air circulation.
Always take the time to clean and wash their filters to ensure that the fans are operating correctly. Make sure to run your air conditioner continuously. Discard any moist boxes.
Scrub Flooring
Clean hard surfaces using a solution of not more than one cup of chlorine bleach and one gallon of water. Ensure you’re protecting yourself with goggles and rubber gloves throughout the procedure and keep the area adequately ventilated.
Examine and Clear Gutters
Put on your rubber gloves and examine the drains and steps of your basement. Clean up any leaves, twigs, or dirt.
Remove the drain screen and thoroughly clean it; clear the drain with the help of a plumber’s snake or a plunger should it be necessary. Clean the downspouts and gutters that are on the exterior of your home.
Freeze Your Assets
If you notice that precious documents or beloved papers have become damp, you can immediately put those documents into the freezer. This should stop the degeneration and growth of mildew until you can deal with them later.
Decide to keep nothing valuable in the basement. You can use concrete blocks to keep belongings from the ground. If you are using them in the basement, plastic storage bins are significantly superior to cardboard boxes. Contact a restoration company to learn more.
Prevent Mold
The mold problem can cause more harm than physical to your possessions and your home. It poses a significant risk to your family’s health. Make sure to disinfect the walls.
Purchase Pine Oil and Clorox Bleach. Determine the bleach dilution and then use a pump spray to apply the solution to all surfaces and floors up to and including the areas where the moisture meter indicates it is wet. Contact a professional for mould removal services.