Syracuse, NY, is no stranger to flooding. In fact, according to new estimates from First Street, over 21% of properties in the city are currently a flood risk.
Upstate New York flooding causes significant damage to homes and businesses, leading to costly repairs and health hazards. Floods also cut residents off from utilities, necessitating the need to prepare well in advance.
If your home is flooded out, the first step is immediate flood remediation for water removal and cleaning. This process includes assessment and safety precautions, effective water extraction methods, thorough drying and dehumidification, proper cleaning and sanitization, reconstruction efforts, and flood mitigation techniques to prevent future disasters.
This article explores these critical aspects in detail for Syracuse residents.
Assessment and Safety In Flood Remediation
Before starting flood remediation, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Here are key steps to ensure a secure environment.
Turn off the electricity before assessing the damage. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If it is safe to do so, shut off the power at the breaker box before entering the flooded area.
Remember to wear protective gear. Use waterproof boots, gloves, safety goggles, and an N95 mask to protect against contaminants and airborne particles.
This is a good time to consider or call a flood remediation service!
Assess the water source. Determine whether the water is from rain, a broken pipe, or a sewage backup. If the water source is still active, stop it if possible.
Check for water contamination. Floodwater may contain bacteria, sewage, chemicals, or debris. If contamination is suspected, call a company immediately.
Evaluate structural damage from the flood. Before proceeding, inspect for structural weaknesses like sagging ceilings, warped flooring, or compromised walls.
Water Removal and Cleaning
Once safety measures are in place, the next step is water extraction. Different methods are suited for varying levels of water damage:
Submersible Pumps are necessary for removing large amounts of standing water, especially in flooded basements. They work efficiently in deep water scenarios and can be set up to operate automatically.
A truck-mounted system is a high-powered, professional-grade system used for large-scale water extraction, often employed by restoration companies. Portable Vacuum Units offer a more flexible solution than truck-mounted systems for maneuvering into tight spaces.
Wet and Dry Vacuums are used to remove water in smaller areas where careful water removal is needed, such as carpets, flooring, and furniture.
Drying and Dehumidification
After water extraction, the affected area must be dried thoroughly to prevent mold growth and further damage.
The first step is to use air movers. These high-powered fans circulate air after water removal. This speeds up the drying process which helps to prevent mold.
The benefit of hiring a company is access to commercial-grade dehumidifiers. These special dehumidifiers are designed to remove excess moisture from the air, preventing mold and mildew growth.
After a storm has passed, opening windows and doors can assist in natural ventilation. It’s important to dry out the space to avoid any issues with indoor air quality.
Keep an eye on the area’s moisture levels. Professionals use moisture meters to check walls, floors, and furniture to ensure thorough drying before proceeding with repairs.
Cleaning and Sanitization
Once the area is dry, cleaning and sanitization are necessary to eliminate contaminants and restore a safe living environment.
Flood remediation professionals wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) gear for this process. Gear includes gloves, masks, and protective clothing to avoid contact with harmful substances.
HEPA Vacuums are brought in to effectively remove fine particles, including mold spores and debris. Antimicrobial solutions are applied to disinfect and clean walls, floors, and furniture to prevent bacterial and mold growth.
Unsalvageable materials such as soaked drywall, carpets, insulation, and other porous materials are discarded. Any material that can’t be adequately dried and cleaned will be disposed of properly to prevent mold infestations.
Flood Damage Restoration and Reconstruction
Once water damage cleanup is complete, reconstruction efforts can begin.
Start by assessing the damage. Create an inspection checklist that covers every space and material that needs to be repaired. Structural elements include walls, flooring, and support beams.
Remove and replace damaged materials that suffered extensive water damage and replace them with new materials. This may include removing any wiring or electrical systems; this step requires hiring professional electricians to assess, repair, and replace systems.
The same applies to plumbing and HVAC Systems. These systems require HVAC technicians specialized in HVAC wiring for central air conditioners.
This is not a project to tackle alone. Any damage, whether it’s minimal or extensive, requires help from a flood restoration specialist. Taking this precaution will result in a thorough and safe rebuild.
Flood Damage Mitigation Techniques (Preventative Measures)
Preventing future flood water damage is as important as remediation. Here are some effective flood mitigation techniques moving forward:
Elevate your home’s electrical outlets, switches, and appliances to avoid dangerous electrical damage from rising flood levels. Install check valves on your sewer lines to prevent sewage backups; remember this important step before the next heavy rain storm.
Waterproof your basement walls to avoid future structural damage. Flood remediation professionals apply sealants and coatings to prevent water infiltration. You can also install sump pumps to remove excess water from basements and crawl spaces, reducing the risk of flooding.
Create drainage systems around your property. A professionally designed channel system can divert water away from the foundation to reduce flood risks. Remember to maintain proper ground slopes away from your home’s foundation to prevent water pools near the foundation.
Hire Professional Water Removal and Cleaning for Your Home
Flood remediation requires a comprehensive approach, including assessment, water removal and cleaning, restoration, and preventative methods. By following these steps, you can successfully restore your property and protect it from future flooding events.
If extensive water damage occurs, seeking professional assistance ensures proper remediation and long-term safety. Taking proactive steps now can save significant time, money, and stress in the future.
At Syracuse Drains, your flood remediation is in trusted and insured hands. We’re available 24/7 for your emergency service requests, including water removal and cleanup. Contact us today about your needs.