Steps to Clean a Flooded Basement

If you discover a flooded basement, it’s advisable to take quick action to prevent further damage to your property. The steps you’ll follow to clean up a flooded basement will depend on the cause of the flood. Below, the plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing walk you through the steps to clean a flooded basement.

• Move Items to A Safe, Dry Location

If it’s safe to enter the basement, wear protective gear and move items to a safe, dry location to protect them from further water damage and mold growth. This may include things like furniture, electronics, carpets, rugs, gym equipment, and more. This also allows for more efficient water removal and drying of the affected area.

• Remove Standing Water

With your items out of the way, evaluate the situation and decide the method you’ll use to extract standing water. If there’s a large volume of standing water, a submersible pump is the most efficient tool for the job. For smaller amounts of water, a wet-dry vacuum can be used to suck up water and debris. You should start the water removal process as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. Keep in mind that mold grows as quickly as 24-48 hours in damp conditions.

• Dry Out the Area Thoroughly

After you’ve extracted all the standing water, the next step is to thoroughly dry the affected area to prevent mold growth. Our plumbers recommend you use dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air. Run a dehumidifier for at least 8 hours or until the relative humidity in the affected area drops below 60%. Open windows and doors to promote air circulation. If necessary, use fans to speed up the drying process.

• Clean and Disinfect the Basement

Once the area is dry, clean and disinfect all surfaces to eliminate any remaining bacteria or mold spores. Use a mixture of bleach and water to clean hard surfaces. For carpets and upholstery, consider professional cleaning services. Dispose of any items that cannot be salvaged. Proper cleaning and disinfection will help restore your basement to its pre-flood condition.

It’s Better To Be Safe Than Sorry

A flooded basement can cause costly damage, especially if the flood goes undetected for long. The floodwater can damage expensive electronics, weaken the structural integrity of the space, and create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. It’s a good idea to take preventative measures to minimize the risk of flooding. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we recommend inspecting your basement plumbing and calling in a skilled plumbing repair service to replace deteriorating pipes and fixtures.

Sump Pump Installation

The best way to protect your basement from flooding is to install a sump pump. This system is installed in a pit dug at the lowest point of your basement floor. When water accumulates in the pit, the sump pump automatically activates to pump the water out of your basement and into a nearby drain or discharge point. Call a professional plumbing service to install a sump pump system in your basement and safeguard the space against flooding.