If your home’s basement or crawlspace waterproofing is not up to date, you will probably have to deal with a flooded basement in Linthicum Heights at some point. Although prevention is of course preferable to damage control, there are still steps you can take to avoid health hazards and structural damage to your home after flooding occurs. The three steps below are essential when coping with flooding in your basement.
Water Removal
Homes that are not equipped with sump pumps can flood, and once the water gets into your basement or crawlspace, it can be difficult to remove. Several days after the flood, when there is no longer a visible layer of water, the walls and flooring will still be very damp. Because of poor ventilation, it is virtually impossible to remove all the moisture without a professional-grade basement or crawl space dehumidifier. Even if your basement hasn’t flooded yet, it’s a good idea to invest in a smaller dehumidifier to protect it from condensation.
Mold Remediation
Mold can begin to grow just a few days after water gets into your basement. After a flood, you should call a mold removal professional as soon as possible to check to see if this fungus has begun to spread anywhere in your basement. Once a mold colony has sprung up, it can be very difficult to remove. Though not every species of mold is toxic, many release spores than aggravate allergies and cause other respiratory problems.
Damage Control
Any carpet, furniture, or cardboard boxes that got wet during the flooding should be examined by a water damage restoration professional. Unfortunately, you may have to throw many of these items out, especially if the flood resulted from a backed up sewer or storm drain. You should also have your foundation inspected, as flooding can cause structural damage that can compromise the integrity of your home. After you have recovered from the flood, install a sump pump and talk with a professional about other basement waterproofing strategies to prevent it from happening again.