Having your basement flooded is stressful, but by handling the situation the correct way, you’ll be able to sanitize your area successfully and without any trouble. This comprehensive guide walks you through the critical steps of flooded basement cleanup, from short-term safety concerns to long-term prevention.
Learning About the Causes of Basement Flooding
The reasons for flooded basements can be many, such as:- Heavy Rainfalls: Excessive rain can clog drainage systems and lead to seepage of water.
- Burst or Leaking Pipes: Leaking or burst pipes can permit substantial volumes of water into the basement.
- Sewer Back-up: Blockage or failure of the sewer system can cause wastewater to back up into the basement.
- Foundation Cracks: Water seepage in heavy storms through cracks in the foundation walls.
- Grading Issues: Water may flow into the basement due to sloping towards the house.([The Spruce][1])
Safety First: Precautions Before Entering
Before you begin the cleanup process, ensure your safety by:- Turning Off Electricity: Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Turn off the power to the basement to prevent electric shock.
- Wearing Protective Gear: Use rubber boots, gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself from contaminants.
- Structural Damage Inspection: Check for any indication of structural instability in the basement, such as sagging ceilings or walls.
- Contaminated Water Avoidance: If the water is not clear or smells bad, it is best to treat it as contaminated and take extra care.
Step-by-Step Cleanup of the Basement
Drain Standing Water
Draining standing water immediately minimizes damage and prevents the growth of mold. Use the following methods:([Better Homes & Gardens][2])- Submersible Pumps: Ideal for large quantities of water.
- Wet/Dry Vacuum: Ideal for minor amounts of water.
- Buckets and Mops: Ideal for remaining water after initial removal.([BELFOR Property
Dry the Area Completely
Dry the basement carefully once the water has been expelled:- Ventilate the Space: Open windows and doors to promote airflow.
- Use Fans: Set up fans to circulate air and speed up drying.
- Deploy Dehumidifiers: These help reduce moisture levels in the air.
- Apply Heat: If safe, use space heaters to increase evaporation.
Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
Floodwaters can carry contaminants, making thorough cleaning essential:- Wash Surfaces: Clean walls, floors, and other hard surfaces with soap and water.
- Disinfect: Use a disinfectant solution to destroy bacteria and mold spores.
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse and dry all surfaces to stop mold growth.
Dispose of Damaged Items
Items that cannot be salvaged should be discarded:- Porous Materials: Carpets, rugs, and mattresses that have been soaked.
- Upholstered Furniture: Items that are difficult to clean and dry.
- Paper Products: Books, documents, and cardboard.
- Contaminated Food: Any boxed or canned food that has been exposed to floodwaters.
Preventing Future Flooding
To reduce the risk of future basement flooding:- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Clear them and get them to drain away from the foundation.
- Landscape to Slope: Grade away from the house so that water runs off.
- Seal Foundation Cracks: Seal cracks with good sealants.
- Install a Sump Pump: Pumps out the water that enters the basement.
- Waterproofing Considerations: Professional waterproofing solutions can be good long-term solutions. Routine maintenance and preventive measures can do a great deal to avoid flood events.
