Basements are handy to have. They serve as guest rooms, offices, and storage spaces. But basements are also prone to flooding.
You might not think floodproofing is something to concern yourself with, but basement floods are dangerous and can harm important items. But what can you do about your flooding basement?
As it turns out, there are plenty of steps you can take to floodproof your home and clean a basement flood. Keep reading if you’d like to know what you should do immediately after a basement flood.
Turn the Electricity Off
Water and electricity don’t mix well. You should never enter a flooded basement before shutting off your home’s electrical panel first.
If you cannot access the electrical panel, contact an electrician to do it for you.
Determine What is Cheaper: Pro vs. DIY
Honestly, it’s probably better to call a professional to dry and waterproof your basement. Talk to a specialist to determine the cost to waterproof a basement.
When it comes to basement waterproofing, many homeowners wonder whether they should hire a professional or tackle the job themselves. While DIY basement waterproofing may seem like a cost-effective solution, it’s important to consider the potential risks and expenses involved. If you’re not experienced in basement waterproofing, you could make costly mistakes that end up causing more damage in the long run.
A dehumidifier may be a cheaper solution than calling a contractor. But some issues aren’t something the average homeowner can tackle independently.
A rule of thumb for DIY projects is if you don’t know what you’re doing, hire a contractor. DIY can get pricey if you’re unable to handle the job.
Get Rid of the Water
The first step in cleaning a basement flood is to remove to water. If you’ve got a sump pump, check if it’s still working. If the sump pump isn’t in good condition, look into replacing it.
A functional sump pump is a key component in floodproofing your home. If the sump pump works, it can help remove a few feet of water.
Another pump and mops can compensate for whatever the sump pump can’t pick up.
Remove Wet Items
The next part of cleaning basement flooding is to remove wet items. Waterlogged items make it hard to dry the basement effectively
You also have to worry about certain materials growing mold or mildew if they are left wet for too long. Take inventory of your damaged things so you can make an insurance claim.
Dry the Basement
Industrial fans should do the trick as far as drying the basement goes. You can ask a local restoration company if you can borrow their fans.
You should also take the time to perform minor floodproofing like sealing small cracks and holes in the walls and floors.
If you’re dealing with a wet or damp basement, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid costly damage to your home’s foundation and belongings. One common problem is basement leaks, which can occur due to a variety of factors like poor drainage, foundation settling, or clogged gutters.
To prevent water from seeping into your basement, you should also take the time to perform minor floodproofing like sealing small cracks and holes in the walls and floors. For more significant leaks, it’s best to hire a professional basement leak repair service that can identify the root cause of the problem and provide a long-lasting solution. Don’t wait until it’s too late – keep your basement dry and protected with proper leak repair and waterproofing measures.
Prevent Mold Growth
Clean the floors with soap and water to combat potential mold growth. If you do see mold, tackle it with bleach and water. A HEPA purifier will also help keep mold from growing.
Need Help With Your Basement Flood?
It’s important you shut off the electricity during a basement flood to prevent injury to yourself. If you’re not sure you can clean a basement flood, call a professional for assistance.
After clearing the water, dry the basement, and clean the walls and floors to prevent mold growth.
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