It is usually only after a catastrophe occurs as a result of a basement flood that anyone considers hiring a flood damage cleanup company. Unfortunately, this type of damage can be expensive, especially if the homeowner neglects to act quickly by hiring a professional right away. This is because the water can cause extensive secondary damage. This includes the development of harmful contaminants, and damage to wood, sheet rock, insulation and other building materials.
What Can Be Saved?
Obviously, the homeowner will want to hold onto specific items that might have been damaged as a result of the flood. This can include heirlooms, photo albums, and special gifts given by loved ones. Other items including perishables are food that will likely be discarded. In fact, an experienced flood damage cleanup company will need to evaluate any of the items in the home that can be salvaged, and those that are beyond repair or would be harmful if consumed. In many incidences, kitchen items in other objects in the home will need to be discarded if they have been directly exposed to sewage (black water).
Saving Electronics
Any electronic device that was directly exposed to the floodwater will likely need to be discarded. This is because of the extensive damage that was caused to the internal components. In any event, the electronic item should never be turned on once it has been underwater due to its potential of causing deadly electrical shocks.
Doing Home Repairs on Your Own
Many individuals that suffer basement floods believe that they can clean up the home and restore it back to its original condition all on their own. However, the type of damage that is caused to the building materials, furnishings and furniture require professional proven methods and high tech equipment to do the job right. Attempting to dry wet carpet using inferior equipment can easily exacerbate the growth of mold, mildew and other harmful deadly contaminants. In fact, many of the do-it-yourself methods typically end up costing the homeowner significantly more than hiring a flood damage cleanup company from the start.
Conclusion
Flooding in the basement or home is a horrible experience and the cleanup can be a daunting task. However, it needs to be left to a professionals as they will use the best equipment and wear proper gear to avoid any of the health hazards involved in dealing with floodwaters.
