Has your home or property been affected by a flood? It can be a difficult and overwhelming experience, but there are things you can do to begin the restoration process. 

In this blog post, we will discuss what needs to be done as soon as possible to minimise the damage and get your life back on track. So, if you have been affected by a flood, keep reading for more information.

The Basics: What to Do If Your Home Has Been Flooded

If your home has been flooded, the first thing you should do is assess the damage. Try to do this immediately so you can start taking steps to minimise the damage. Look for any water damage to your walls, floors or ceiling. If there is any furniture or belongings that have been soaked in water, you will need to determine if they can be salvaged or if they need to be thrown away.

How to Start the Restoration Process

Once you have assessed the damage, it is time to start the restoration process.

Step 1: Remove All the Water From Your Home

The first step in flood damage restoration is to remove all of the water from your home. This may seem like a daunting task, but it is important to get rid of all the water as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. You can do this by using a wet/dry vacuum or a sump pump.

Step 2: Identify What Needs to be Repaired After a Flood

After you have removed all the water, you will need to start repairing the damage that has been done. If there is any structural damage, make sure to have it fixed immediately. You may also need to replace drywall, flooring and other materials that have been damaged by the flood.

Step 3: Clean and Sanitise

Next, all of the surfaces in the affected area need to be cleaned with a disinfectant solution. This will kill any bacteria or mould spores that may be present. It is important to make sure that all of the nooks and crannies are cleaned, as mould can easily take hold in these areas.

Hiring a Professional Restoration Company

One of the most important things you can do after a flood is to hire a professional restoration company. Offering flood damage restoration service, these professional restoration companies will have the knowledge and experience to properly restore your home to its pre-flood condition. 

The entire restoration process can take weeks or even months, depending on the extent of the damage. Thus, it is important to be patient and to allow the professionals to do their job. A restoration company will also be able to advise you on what needs to be done to prevent future flooding.

Types of Equipment Used during Flood Restoration

Some of the most important pieces of equipment used during flood restoration are industrial dehumidifiers and air movers.

Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers work by removing the moisture from the air, which can then be used to dry out wet materials. Dehumidifiers are an important piece of equipment that professional restoration companies use for a variety of reasons.

Firstly, dehumidifiers can help to remove the moisture from the air, which can then be used to dry out wet materials. This is an important step in the restoration process because it prevents further damage to wet materials and helps to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Additionally, dehumidifiers can help to control the humidity levels in a room, which can prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. Finally, dehumidifiers can also help to reduce the chances of dust mites and other allergens thriving in a damp environment.

Air Movers

Air movers are another important piece of equipment that professional restoration companies use. Air movers help to circulate air throughout the affected area, which helps to dry out wet materials and prevents the growth of mold and mildew. Air movers can also be used to remove any remaining water from the area.

There are two main types of air movers: axial and centrifugal. Axial air movers are designed to create a strong airflow in a single direction. This makes them ideal for moving air through ductwork or around obstacles. Centrifugal air movers, on the other hand, generate a broad stream of air that can be directed in multiple directions. This makes them perfect for circulating air in larger spaces.

Tips on Preventing Future Flooding in Your Home

We understand how stressful it can be after a flooding incident in your homes. The good news is that there are prevention measures you can do to keep your home flood-free in the future. Here are some simple tips:

1. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris.

2. Seal any cracks in your foundation.

3. Keep an emergency fund in case of a flood or other disaster.

4. Install a sump pump in your basement to help remove water automatically.

5. Have your septic tank inspected regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.

By taking these simple steps, you can help to protect your home from the devastating effects of flooding.

Bonus Tip: Insurance Claims After a Flooding Incident

If your home is covered by an insurance policy and you had a flooding incident, the first thing you should do is call your insurance company. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine how much they will cover. You will need to provide them with a list of all the damaged items, as well as receipts or other proof of purchase.

It is important to keep in mind that most homeowners’ insurance policies exclude flooding, so you may need to purchase a separate policy if you want coverage. If you have flood damage, it is also advisable to take photos or videos of the damage for your records. Finally, make sure to save all of your receipts from any repairs or replacements that you make.

Takeaway

If you have experienced a flood, consider contacting a professional restoration company. The entire restoration process can take weeks or even months, depending on the extent of the damage. However, by taking quick action and working with a reputable company, you can get your home back to normal in no time.