Expediting the Recovery Process After Flooding

12/9/2020 (Permalink)

If you live in or around Texas Hill Country sometimes referred to as, Flash Flood Alley, you know floods happen. You have probably experienced or know someone who has experienced flood damage. Flood water doesn’t care what is in its path, and can destroy everything it comes in contact with. Saving your home after a flood requires a quick response and ruthless action. 

Many believe, “It isn’t that bad.”or “Everything will dry.” They may think only new carpets, repainting, and new wallpaper is all that is needed for recovery.

Unfortunately, this is all incorrect. With water damage, time is working against you. Water from a flood is unsanitary, and moist conditions promote quick mold growth. In as little as 48 hours, you may already have an early-stage mold problem. If it becomes visible, the real problems begin, and restoration costs can go through the roof. 

Flood damage restoration is best handled by professionals in storm damage or water restoration. If you are going to attempt flood cleanup remember the following.

Flood Recovery Begins at the High-Water Mark

This mark on the indoor walls of your home is the starting point for your restoration efforts. When the mark is on the wallboard, you can assume that the damage extends above this mark and behind the wall. Flood cuts are a simple and effective way to deal with this wallboard damage.

Flood Cuts Speed Up Drying and Save Money

These cuts remove wet and conserve undamaged wallboard. It keeps the repair costs low. A horizontal, straight and clean flood cut simplifies late-stage wallboard repairs. The flood cut is the first of a three-step recovery process.

Where to Make a Flood Cut

Mark a horizontal line one foot above the high-water mark and cut along that line. Tear out and dispose of all wallboard below the cut. If the damage extends above the line, draw a higher line and cut again. Continue until the damaged wallboard removal is complete.

Remove and dispose of all wet insulation behind the wall. Leave the space open until it is dry and time to install new wallboard.

Drying

Deploy fans and other drying equipment to dry studs and other structural components. Also, evaluate other features behind the wallboard. They may include electrical, plumbing and HVAC equipment. 

Be Aware of Contamination

Finally, be aware that contamination is frequently an issue with flooding. Sewage, pesticides and other chemicals are common in floodwater. Cleaning and disinfecting may be required.

When your home is in need of flood recovery, remember there are flood recovery professionals ready to respond in the Westlake Hills, TX, area. They have the equipment, training and experience to deal with your flooding problem quickly and thoroughly. It all begins with a simple phone call.