Flooding can be a major disaster whether you live in a coastal area. Thankfully, if you have a home insurance policy, you have a bit of protection. If you are dealing with flood damage repair, there are a few things you need to know.
Removing mold after flooding is an important part of recovery. It is a health risk to you and your family, and mold is also a hazard to your finances. To prevent mold growth, clean up as much of the water as possible and dry it off. A dehumidifier can also help remove moisture in the air. Replace carpets and upholstery. These highly porous materials may have accumulated mold spores over time. They should also be professionally cleaned and disinfected.
During a flood, your home’s foundation can be compromised. This can lead to serious structural damage. It can also create a dangerous environment for your family. A structural engineer can evaluate the damage to your home’s foundation and determine whether or not you need to repair it. Structural damage can affect a home’s foundation, walls, roof, and load-bearing structures. This can be caused by water, wind, or other natural disasters. You can prevent structural damage by knowing the warning signs.
The Department of Buildings advises homeowners and property owners to check for structural stability and unsafe conditions. Some structural damage can be obvious, while others can be hidden. When you’re inspecting your home after a flood, watch for cracks and discoloration in your walls and ceiling. If your home is prone to water damage, use flood-resistant materials to cover the walls and floor. It would be best to look for shifting door frames and window frames. You can also check your metal building components for rust, corrosion, and wood framing damage. These components are designed to handle water exposure but may fail if they are subjected to excessive pressures or loads.
Mold can also form in unexpected places. For instance, the spores from floodwaters may settle on walls, ceilings, and furniture, creating a home for mold colonies. Often, the simplest solution to mold growth after flood damage is a thorough inspection. Mold may also grow in areas of high humidity, such as a basement. Mold is also a threat to people who have compromised immune systems. You can prevent mold growth by checking for leaks in the plumbing and repairing any leaks as soon as they happen. You can also use a moisture meter to determine the relative humidity in your home. Ideally, humidity levels should be below 50% to discourage mold growth.
During flood damage repair, electrical system problems can arise. Water can damage electrical wiring and components and cause a short circuit, resulting in fire. The National Electrical Code requires that electrical equipment be replaced after being exposed to floodwater. Flood water is not only dangerous, but it can also be corrosive. Salt and silt can contaminate the water, affecting the electrical equipment’s performance. The contaminants also cause future corrosion.
Turning off electrical circuits in the affected area is essential until they have been evaluated and repaired. This will help reduce the likelihood of further damage. When inspecting an electrical system, it is best to call in a certified electrician. They can help you determine which equipment needs to be replaced. They can also help you estimate human resources requirements and create a preliminary schedule for repair work. If your electrical system is affected by flood damage, you should ensure that all electrical circuits are turned off. It is also important to make sure that the grounding system is intact. Water can cause insulation failures, which can also cause short circuits.
