Saturated Circumstance: How to Handle a Flooded Basement in Bartlett

A flooded basement in Bartlett can be daunting and unexpected, but with the proper knowledge and tools, cleaning up your flooded basement is possible. This blog will confidently guide you through the step-by-step process of how to prepare for potential flooding and cleanup. No matter the cause, you can restore your basement to its original condition by following this helpful guide.

A Flooded Basement in Bartlett: How to Prepare

Staying prepared is critical if you live in an area prone to flooding. First, consider creating an emergency plan. Your plan should include a list of items you need if you have to evacuate your home quickly.

It’s also important to know that most typical home insurance policies don’t include flood insurance. Talk with your agent about adding this important coverage if you live in a high-risk area.

Painting your basement walls with a waterproof coating can help protect your property by combatting moisture in your basement. It would help if you also stocked up on supplies, such as sandbags, that can help prevent floodwaters from entering your house. Last but not least, make sure you have insurance to cover flood damage.

• Call your insurance company. If your basement floods, the first thing you should do is call your insurance company. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage and begin the claims process.
• Check for structural damage to your home. Make sure that it’s safe to enter your home. If structural damage is present, such as broken pipes or cracks in your house’s foundation, take note of the damage for your insurance adjuster.
• Turn off the electrical supply. Floodwaters and electricity do not mix. If your basement has flooded, turning off the power is essential to prevent accidents.
• Avoid direct contact with floodwater. Floodwater can contain dangerous containments, such as lead, mercury, and microorganisms. 
• Start the cleanup process. Once you’ve done the above steps, you can begin cleaning up your basement. You can start by removing any standing water and then dry out the area.

Flooded Basement in Bartlett: A Cleanup Guide

Now that you have learned what to do immediately following a flood, here are tips for cleaning your basement once the flooding has occurred.

Safety First

The most important thing to remember when cleaning up your basement is to put your safety first. There are many dangers associated with flooded basements, including electrical shock, mold, and harmful bacteria.

Wear personal protective equipment, including disposable overalls, rubber boots, gloves, and a face mask when cleaning the basement.

Remove the Water

The first step in the cleanup process is to remove all the water. You can use a sump pump or a wet/dry vacuum. If there is a lot of water, you may need to rent a professional-grade pump. 

Dry Out the Basement

Once you have removed all the water, it’s time to start drying out the basement. The drying can be done by opening windows and using ceiling fans and dehumidifiers.

Dehumidifiers reduce the air’s moisture and help maintain proper humidity levels. Meanwhile, fans help circulate the air and speed up the drying process. Be aware it can take up to two weeks for a flooded basement to completely dry.

Clean and Disinfect

After your basement is dry, it’s time to start cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces. This includes walls, floors, ceilings, and any personal belongings that may have been affected by the flood.

Use mild soap and warm water to clean all surfaces. Once cleaned, make sure to apply a disinfectant to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Inspect for Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew can thrive in a flooded basement, leading to serious health risks. It’s essential to inspect your basement for any signs of mold growth. 

Some common signs of mold include a musty smell, discoloration on walls and ceilings, and the presence of spores. If you discover these telltale indicators, contact a professional mold remediation expert to restore your basement to its pre-loss condition.

Steps to Preventing Future Flooding

Whether you have been affected by a flood or are looking to prevent one, take these steps to avoid future flooding incidents.

• Make sure to clean your gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water from pooling around your home.
• Install a sump pump that can detect excess water and help remove accumulated water in your basement. Sump pumps are powered by electricity or a battery, so it’s essential to have a backup power source in case of a power outage.
• Keep an electrical generator in case of an emergency to provide your house with a backup source of electricity.
• Install a backwater valve as another tool that can help prevent basement flooding. The valve is installed in your sewer line and prevents sewage and stormwater from flowing back into your home. 
• Disconnect the downspouts, or drainage pipes, that direct rainwater from the roof to the ground to reduce the amount of water that flows into the sewer system and decreases the chance of a backup.
• Have your septic tank regularly inspected to ensure it is working correctly. A clogged or malfunctioning septic tank can cause sewage backups.
• Seal any cracks or openings in your home’s walls, floors, windows, and foundations.

Are You Dealing With the Consequences of a Flooded Basement? Call PuroClean of Bartlett!

Are you currently dealing with a flooded basement due to excessive rain, sewage backup, or a burst pipe? Don’t worry; PuroClean of Bartlett is here to help! Our team of certified technicians is trained to handle emergencies like basement flooding repair, mold removal, and water damage restoration. Count on us to provide top-notch flooded basement cleanup services and restore your property to its pre-damage condition 24/7. Please get in touch with us today at (630) 823-0424 for prompt assistance.