Water damage in a home can lead to many dangerous situations. That’s why it is crucial to clean up your interiors as soon as possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for the help of professionals since some water damage can be harmful to your health.
For instance, there have been tons of cases where sewer water entered the basement through a faulty sump pump. Dark sewer waters are contaminated and carry various infections and bacteria.
You should also know that the water damage in your home could have been avoided. Backwater valves, modern basement waterproofing systems, and new piping can save you lots of energy and money on cleaning and repairs.
Before you start dealing with your situation, here are 5 very efficient and lifesaving cleaning tips you should know:
- Protect Yourself
The most important thing is to properly protect you. If the water level has reached any electrical outlet, you probably are in a more dangerous situation. Water and electricity don’t go well together so make sure that you turn off the power before you step into the flooded areas.
Don’t be afraid to call an electrician. Keep in mind that your life is at stake! Besides preventing electrocution, make sure to wear gloves, rubber boots and masks. As we mentioned before, you might be facing contaminated waters. Gambling away your health isn’t worth it, especially when it can be easily prevented with adequate protection.
- Remove the Water
After switching off electricity and removing any kind of electronics from the area, start dealing with the water inside. Clear your pathway and get rid of damaged furniture. Put focus on the things that matter the most and remove them first.
Before you start drying out the area, you must remove the water as well. This can be done manually (with brooms and buckets) or with dry/wet vacuums. If you choose the latter, remember to plug it into a safe outlet that isn’t close to the water damage.
Stay away from extensions chords since they are prone to creating electrical shocks in such difficult situations. If you have too much water in the basement, you can always contact professionals that will lend you a sump pump and help with the removal.
- Stop Mold
If the cleaning process isn’t done correctly, your affected room can start being victimized by mold growth and rot. This is why the process of drying out is of utmost importance. Just removing the water won’t cut it; you must do a couple of more steps as well.
First, you have to open windows and doors to encourage natural ventilation and airflow. Get access to dehumidifiers and leave them run for a while so that humidity levels are reduced.
Make sure that you get rid of every single damaged item. Your floors and window frames can get affected by rot and there are many DIY methods for getting rid of it. Cut out damaged drywall and paint.
Purchasing new items isn’t that expensive, especially when compared to severe mold cleaning procedures. Mold growth damages our health; it causes asthma attacks and allergic reactions, so try to show it a proper fight.
- Disinfect
The next tip is crucial for your health. Sewer waters aren’t something to be reckoned with. Remember to keep your pets and children as far from the contaminated area as possible. They can suffer the most consequences.
Purchase an adequate disinfectant and use it on everything that was in contact with the water. This includes floors, furniture, appliances, pipes, walls, windows and doors. Apply the disinfectant after everything has dried out.
You could have to wait a day or two if the flood was severe and if it happens in autumn or winter. Whatever the scenario, don’t approach the area without proper protection such as gloves and boots.
Put focus on your hygiene the next couple of days and keep your windows and doors open as much as you can.
- Recycle
Going through a flood is a hard and annoying experience that basically won’t teach you anything glorious about life. But, no matter how bitter you feel, always try to look out for the environment.
Most homeowners get caught up by emotions and throw everything in the first dumpster they find. However, there are tons of options out there, considering how most of the damaged materials can be recycled.
Tame your anger and tiredness to find appropriate recycling solutions. You can consult with your city’s waste management or find organizations that accept old and damaged electronics. You can also try Earth 911 that helps you find recycling centers near you.
While you are at it, start researching about basement waterproofing and all of the other methods for preventing floods and water damage. Whether due to faulty piping or an old sump pump, your water troubles had a certain cause.
It’s best to address issues as soon as possible since this way you will avoid any further plumbing and drainage complications.