Flooded Basement Cleanup Services – Water Removal and Dryout

Basement floods are unfortunate events, and when they occur, flooded basements can be devastating. A flooded basement needs to be addressed in a proper and timely manner, according to local regulations and without contaminating other areas. These are just a few of the reasons that cleaning up after a basement flood is not recommended as a do-it-yourself project. Understanding the various aspects of a professional basement cleaning provides some insight into why most cleanings can only be performed correctly by a professional service.

Safety First

One of the first steps undertaken by a professional cleaning service after a basement flood is to ensure the safety of the location. Electrocution, toxic fumes, microbes and even natural gas leaks are all real threats that immediately follow a flooded basement. Once these risks are assessed and managed, the next step is to begin removing the water as fast as possible.

Water Removal and Extraction Services

The rate at which water is removed in the wake of a basement flood generally determines the level of restoration that will be possible after cleaning. This is a critical factor, particularly so where finished or carpeted basements are concerned.

Water removal is accomplished through a variety of means that include suction, absorption, fans and dehumidifiers; drying agents are also commonly employed, which are typically used for furniture, carpeting and the interiors and exteriors of walls. Most drying agents are strongly regulated, often requiring specialty training and certification on the part of the applicator before they can be used.

Avoiding Further Contamination

Proper removal, treatment and disposal of water and damaged items within a structure are essential to avoid contaminating other areas of a structure, as well as surrounding areas. Molds and mildew can begin to establish after just seventy-two hours, however, both can begin much sooner under the right conditions.

Professional cleaning services immediately assess which items can be saved and which need to be discarded. Clear markings or containment, depending on the local regulations, will be employed to discern what items are to be restored. Residents and custodians can also assist by keeping the ambient humidity down the in rest of the structure. This can be accomplished by turning the air-conditioning down and keeping the air circulating inside the structure as much as possible. It is also recommended that masks are used until a proper mold assessment can be conducted.

Finish and Restoration

The finishing process of a professional basement flood cleanup typically involves the application of chemicals and treatments, which are not limited to the immediate area of flooding, and include:

1. Sanitizers
2. Germicides
3. Anti-microbial agents
4. Drying agents

The restoration process is often much more difficult and commonly requires replacement of surface materials, wall framing and flooring. This also requires the proper and legal disposal of the contaminated materials, which can be quite expensive and dangerous, and is usually followed by inspections from local health and building inspectors upon reconstruction.

A professional basement flood cleaning service typically follows the above mentioned steps, generally in order, for the vast majority of flood cases. However, more serious damage and special conditions that include hazardous materials and mold often require specialized removal and treatments, making it essential to call a professional as soon as flooding is suspected.

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