Whether it's your basement or your entire home that has been flooded, there will be many challenges to deal with in the aftermath of such an event. A major problem that you're likely to face is mold growth. Mold spores are always present in the air searching for something damp on which to grow. A recently flooded house will offer plenty of opportunities for mold. Mold growth can complete the process of cleaning up after a flood. How can you keep mold at bay in such situations?
Remove the Flood Water
You may need to use buckets or a water pump, but it is important to do this as quickly as possible. The longer the water is left to stand in the building, the further it can spread. This can make it harder to dry the building properly.
Take Out Any Wet Items
Whether it's an old sweater that someone left down in the basement or a rag that was laid there, anything that's wet or damp should be removed and dried or left out in the sun to dry. Items of clothing and furniture can offer mold just what it needs to survive.
Additionally, such items can interfere with further cleanup and drying of your basement. The sun is toxic to mold, therefore, putting such items outside can kill any mold that may already be growing.
Dry Out the Rest of the Building
The rest of the building will need to be dried out to prevent mold growth. Even if the floors are made from mold-resistant material, a very humid environment can allow mold to start growing in other parts of the building.
If there are windows present, ensure these are opened to let in sunlight and to ventilate the affected parts of your home.
Drying out your home completely can be challenging if the water entered the walls or the floors. You may need to call a professional water damage restoration company to ensure such places are dried properly. Mold can grow inside your walls and go unnoticed for a long time.
Use Fans and Dehumidifiers
It may not be safe to use electrical appliances immediately after a flood. However, as soon the place is dry enough and there's no risk of electric shock, use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out the building. Drying parts of the house such as basements without the use of such appliances can be challenging when there are no windows.
Share4 February 2019
Growing up, I was extremely close to my family. In fact, I lived with my parents and my sister until I married my husband eleven years ago. Unfortunately, I moved seventy-five long miles away from my family after my wedding. But I still visit my childhood home at least once each month. Our growing family also still celebrates all of the major holidays including Easter. Because my husband and I plan to start a family soon, we hope to begin hosting more family gatherings at our home. When this takes happens, I know I will need help cleaning my house. On this blog, I hope you will discover how hiring cleaning services can help you plan a stress-free Easter celebration.
