Wednesday, March 29, 2023 / by Sonya Reiselt
Tips for Cleaning up a Flooded Basement
Flooding in a Lowcountry basement can cause serious damage and disruption. Fortunately, with the right tools and steps, homeowners can restore their flooded basements to their pre-flood condition. The process may require some elbow grease, but by following appropriate procedures it's possible to be successful.
Step 1: Ensure Safety
For any basement flooding clean-up, safety should be of utmost concern. Floodwaters are a potential hazard because they may contain sewage, bacteria, and/or chemicals that could cause illness or infection from contact. Wearing protective gear such as rubber gloves, boots, and a face mask is recommended for this situation. Additionally, keeping any cuts or wounds covered and avoiding direct contact with the floodwater is essential for maximum safety.
Step 2: Remove the Water
When dealing with a basement flood, prompt water removal is essential. A submersible pump, available for rental or through a professional water removal service, is the best solution to quickly extracting large amounts of water. Alternatively, a wet/dry vacuum can also be employed. Keep in mind that the extracted water may be contaminated and should be disposed of properly.
Step 3: Dry the Area
Once the water has been removed, it's important to thoroughly dry the area. Moisture can cause mold growth and subsequent health concerns, so good ventilation is key in maintaining a healthy environment. Fans and dehumidifiers are effective options for circulating air to remove excess moisture. You should also open windows and doors to help accelerate the drying process.
Step 4: Clean and Disinfect
When the area has been given an opportunity to dry, it's time to move forward with cleaning and disinfecting. To ensure effective results, prepare solutions of warm water and bleach and diligently clean any affected surfaces such as floors, furniture, walls or other items. Personal safety is key during this part of the process - make sure to don protective gloves and masks before starting as contaminated areas may need more attention. Use a stiff brush or sponge to remove debris from the surface before rinsing with clean water.
Step 5: Check for Mold
In damp and humid areas, mold may grow quickly. After cleaning up a flooded basement, it's important to carefully inspect the area for potential mold presence. If a musty odor is present or discoloration appears on walls or floors, then professional assistance should be sought out. A certified mold remediation service can evaluate the situation and remove any existing mold growth. It is highly recommended not to attempt the removal of suspected mold yourself, as this could further spread the spores and make the problem worse.
Step 6: Prevent Future Flooding
To protect your property from future flooding, it's essential to pinpoint the cause of the flooding and take measures to stop it from occurring again. Common sources of basement flooding include sump pump failure, poor drainage, or a heavy downpour. To prevent issues afterward you can take preventive steps such as reinforcing gutters and downspouts to send rainwater away from your home's foundation, patching up cracks in floors and walls in your basement, grading your lawn into a grade that gets water away from your home, or setting up a new or updated sump pump system.
In conclusion, restoring a flooded basement can be arduous work but by following these various steps you'll be able to complete the job effectively and safely. Prioritize safety first then focus on removing water accumulation, drying out the area as much as possible, cleaning and disinfecting affected areas for hygiene purposes, checking for mold growths at regular intervals, and lastly taking precautionary steps for future floods.
Are you planning to buy or sell a home in Beaufort and the surrounding Lowcountry? Contact Sonya Reiselt today to find the latest homes for sale in the Lowcountry. And make sure to visit our blog every week for more Beaufort area real estate information.
