Dealing with a flood in your home can be a nightmare. Even if the flood waters were not deep, you could still need substantial cleaning and water restoration. Water damage often goes beyond what you initially see. It often takes a professional to do a thorough cleaning. If you fail to take care of the damage as soon as possible, you could make yourself or your family sick. Here is more information about flood damage and what might happen if you don't take care of the water damage right away.
How Do Floods Damage Homes?
Flood waters get into and damage wood floors, drywall, carpet, furniture, and electrical wiring. Many construction materials swell when they get saturated with water. If the water came in from the outside, such as in a natural disaster, you should assume it is contaminated. This means everything the water touches needs thorough cleaning or has to be thrown out.
What Are the First Steps to Cleaning Up?
The first steps to cleaning up involve getting the water out of the home to begin with. After that, take pictures for your insurance company. Throw out contaminated items that are difficult to clean. Clothing, bedding, curtains, and some rugs can be cleaned as usual. Heavily damaged furniture may need to be discarded. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as boots and gloves, if you must touch anything or walk through wet areas.
What Happens If You Don't Clean Up Right Away?
Water flowing from outside the home can carry all kinds of bacteria and diseases. Even when everything dries, it can still be a health hazard. Also, some items get moldy quickly, and this could cause respiratory problems in some people. Wood floors can weaken and warp after a flood. Some hidden areas may remain damp long after the rest of the home has dried.
When Should One Call a Water Damage Restoration Company?
Don't wait too long to call a water damage restoration company. The best time to call is once the threat of water entering the home has passed. That way, they can get to work drying out the home and cleaning up damaged walls, floors, and other surfaces. Your insurance company may cover the costs if you have purchased flood or water damage insurance.
If a significant amount of water has entered your home, you will have water damage. You must immediately work to remove damaged items and clean areas touched by the water. For the most thorough cleaning possible, contact a water damage restoration company. They know where the hidden water damage is and how to dry out your home without causing further damage.
Share12 January 2021
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.
