Basic Flood Remediation Procedure
The harm caused by flooding can be extensive. Water is incredibly destructive and can cause far more harm than we think, yet it’s among the most neglected natural forces. It is challenging to deal with the consequences of flooding, and water damage to your house can be difficult. When you see water, it can be overwhelming, and cleaning up after a flood can be difficult.
Where do we begin with flood restoration?
To begin, taking a deep breath could help. The process of flooding restoration will be much easier and more manageable if you follow a few easy steps, but initially, it might feel like an impossible task. Here are simple steps to take after flood damage.
Contact the Insurance Provider
When faced with a calamity or loss of property, it is the initial step to get in touch with your insurance provider. Record as many photos and videos as possible to demonstrate the loss’s extent to ensure the insurance company understands the amount of assistance you’ll require. This will save you time dealing with the insurance company and enable you to prove the amount of damage that was caused.
Determine the Type of Water
It is essential to establish the “color” of your water. Clean water, gray water, and black are three kinds of water. Flooding caused by storms or damaged pumps is usually clean water. “Clean” does not imply that the water isn’t a little unpleasant. It simply means that no significant impurities are present in the water. Gray water refers to water contaminated by soap, oils, and other substances that are not biohazardous. Human feces-contaminated water affected is called black water. Never, never, be in contact with the black water. If you smell sewage, avoid it and get an expert from PuroClean of Redmond for assistance.
Salvage All Valuables as Possible
As soon as you detect the water rising, remove any items you can from the flooded area. Please do not attempt to remove goods that could cause harm to your health or safety, like electronic equipment or things that require you to walk through potentially dangerous water to reach them. However, if you own damaged objects due to water, such as photo albums, you should remove them as soon as possible. Even if they’re badly damaged, do not discard them. They might be salvageable.
Take Out the Water
You could use buckets to get rid of the water, but you can rent flood cleanup equipment such as an extractor for flood restoration in case the water is too much. If the water is odorous, like sewer waste, you should not try to clean it up. It may be black water and contaminated with bacteria, which is harmful to your health. Using a pump or vacuum can significantly increase the speed of the removal process. Start the removal process when you can. The mold may begin to grow within 24 hours following water damage.
Dehumidify and Dry the Space
The process will take some time, maybe several days. A large fan, not a box fan, will be needed. The need for large industrial fans is paramount, especially ones designed expressly for drying rooms instead of just blowing air through a room. A strong dehumidifier will be required to eliminate moisture from the air and prevent condensation on your floor and walls.
Clean and Sanitize
The final stage is to disinfect all surfaces that come in contact with water. Even if water was clean or gray and free of pathogens, it is safer to use fresh water. You’ll require a powerful disinfectant, particularly one with bleach. If you are disinfecting your items, especially hardwood furniture, be cautious.
