If you suspect that floodwaters may have entered your home, it is important to know what the potential dangers could be when it comes to mold and water damage.
Floodwaters can contain raw sewage, chemicals, animal waste, and more. Floodwater seeping into walls or floors can lead not only to contamination from groundwater with bacteria and other pollutants, but also to increased humidity in the home's air. Mold and mildew can grow on wet or damp materials, including wood, ceiling tiles, carpeting and clothing.
If your home may have been flooded, there are some things that you can do to check for signs of water damage.
"One of the best ways to determine whether a home has been flooded is to look at the floor," says Randy Shackelford, state home recovery manager for Allstate Insurance Company. "Floodwaters usually flow from the bottom of a home first, and taking a quick look at the floor is a good way to check if there are signs of water."
In many cases, floodwaters leave behind matted carpeting, loose floor boards and other signs.
"Dwelling located near rivers, creeks or other bodies of water are particularly vulnerable to flooding," says Shackelford. "Flood waters can carry sewage into homes and can even force water from sewers into homes. Even if flood waters do not leave behind sewage-related problems, they often introduce a host of other contaminants including lead, deterioration of vinyl and asbestos, and other chemicals that can contaminate the home's indoor air."
If you suspect that your home has been flooded, it is important to take action immediately to restore your home from flood.
Some symptoms to look for are mold or mildew on materials, wet carpeting or ceiling tiles, and weakened household appliances.
What to Do After the Flood
If you suspect water has entered your home, here are some simple ways to prevent mold or mildew from growing or spread:
* Close all doors and windows to reduce humidity levels.
* Bring in clean towels, plastic garbage bags or disposable rags to wipe up spilled water.
* Gently brush loose carpets and replace any carpet that has been damaged by floodwaters.
* Vacuum carpets and mop floors thoroughly with a mild detergent solution. Use a dry vacuum after each cleaning.
* If you notice mold or mildew, clean it immediately with disinfectant.
* Do not walk on carpeting or upholstered furniture if it is wet.
* Never dry materials with an open flame, such as a gas stove or clothes dryer.
If you have a flooded or flooded home, it is important to take action as quickly as possible. Homeowners with flood insurance policies can call their agents, who will be able to recommend a contractor to go through the home and make repairs. Flood insurance policies will cover any property loss that was not covered by the federal government's National Flood Insurance Program, including damage from flooding and seepage.
"Homeowners can begin the cleanup process immediately after flood damage," says Shackelford. "It is important to remove damaged items from the home, but it is also necessary to be aware of any potential safety concerns."
Many areas that have been flooded will contain mold and other bacteria. Mold can cause health problems for the entire family and should be taken seriously. Worker's who remove flood debris as part of the cleanup process may choose to wear respirators to prevent allergen inhalation or a mask if they are particularly sensitive to airborne bacteria.
Questions to ask before hiring a contractor
Be sure to ask the following questions of any contractor who comes into your home:
Is this a certified professional in the field? Be sure to ask about specific certifications and licensing. Always look for an experienced team for this flood damage restoration service. Ask about which other contractors are working on your property. Does the company provide records of past performance, as well as references and insurance information that is beyond themselves? You should be checking with other homeowners and local officials for additional information about the company's performance.
How to find a flood contractor
Many insurance companies and restoration companies offer services for their insured clients, and will often provide flood damage repair estimates directly without requiring any paperwork. Many contractors will also accept insurance claims without additional work being necessary.
Some contractors may charge a fee to check the home for signs of mold or other damage. Homeowners can also check with local inspectors who are certified in this field to see if they know of any local sources that may be able to assist further, such as insurance adjusters or restoration companies.
Conclusion:
Remember that water mitigation and restoration is a very precise process. A botched restoration can be worse than the fire or flood! Don't take any chances with your home and health.
EZ Flood Restoration USA specializes in disaster cleanup and water damage restoration. They also provide emergency services 24/7 and come to your house within an hour.
Author Bio:- Walter Mealey
Walter is a marketing manager at EZ Flood Restoration USA. With extensive knowledge of water damage and flood restoration, he writes articles about the cause and remedy of Mold growth, remodeling Kitchen and Bathroom with latest plumbing innovation and technology, how to Crawl Space after flood, and tips to get rid of Fire and Smoke Damage. Stay updated with recent articles and grab comprehensive knowledge of common ways the flood damage affects your home and business and what proactive steps you take to overcome it as well as modern tools that can keep you alert about the happening of natural and accidental uncertainties.
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