How To Prevent Further Damage After Flooding

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Drying equipment in a Mount Prospect, IL home

How To Protect Your Home From Further Damage

Standing water can lead to mold growth in as few as 24 hours. Fortunately, acting quickly can protect your Mount Prospect, IL, home from further damage.

Drying the Property

After all people and pets are accounted for and it is safe to return to the property, the most important way to prevent further damage is to dry out the property as quickly as possible. You can use pumps, specialized vacuums, and buckets to remove the standing water. Then dehumidifiers and fans can be turned on to dry out porous items. If the humidity outside is low enough, you can open the windows and doors to increase airflow and speed the drying process. It may help to take some items outside to dry in the sunshine. The faster items dry, the less likely they are to foster mold.

Cleaning the Property
Unfortunately, mold growth is not the only concern after flooding. Floodwaters are often contaminated with bacteria. Because stagnant water can become a breeding ground for microorganisms, even clean water can become contaminated if left for more than 48 hours. The type of cleaner you should use depends on the source of the water, how long the water has been present and the item being cleaned. There are a variety of specialized cleaners available, as well as bleach and vinegar.

Restoring the Property
All items that cannot be fully cleaned and dried should be thrown away immediately. Remaining items may be able to be restored to their pre-flood conditions. Depending on your skill level, you may be able to do some repairs yourself. However, more intricate repairs, such as antiques and electronics, often have to be performed by a professional.
No matter how quickly you respond to flood damage, your home will need to be cleaned, dried, and restored. Whether you are dealing with mold growth or severe water damage, a certified restoration team can help you get your home back to normal quickly and safely.