Protect Your Home Before, During And After A Flood

It's important to know how water damage can happen and what you can do before, during, and after a flood. Water damage is a very serious problem that affects more than just your home - it has the potential to affect your health as well. Flood water contains bacteria, parasites, chemicals from vehicles on flooded roads, and unwanted debris. A company in charge of water damage flood restoration will come in to dry out your property so that there are no mold or mildew growths which could cause respiratory problems such as allergies or asthma. In this post, we'll provide tips for protecting your home before, during, and after a flood event.

Things you should do to protect your home before the flood has happened

1. Put your valuables in flood-proof containers

The best way to protect the most valuable items you own from flood-related water damage is to put them in waterproof containers.

Containers that are made of metal or plastic are best because these containers do not absorb water. If you have any valuables that can't be stored inside a container it is possible to keep them on an elevated surface away from the ground and clean them regularly.

2. Have a plan for the home's pets and children if you have to evacuate

If possible, have an emergency kit prepared for yourself, your children, and your pets which should include water, prescription medicines, plenty of food, and other necessities to last at least 14 days. Make sure all members of a household are familiar with the evacuation plan and their role so that everything goes smoothly. 

3. Install water sensors that detect any leaks or flooding in the house

There are a number of ways to prevent flooding, including installing early warning systems. The most prevalent way is installing water sensors that detect any leaks or flooding in the house. And while it would take time to detect leaks through these systems, you'll be able to fix the problem before your basement becomes flooded with water.

4. Add an automatic sump pump to handle basement flooding

Making sure there is an automatic sump pump can save a lot of headaches and hassles for homeowners. It may only take one flood (or worse, mold) to make an otherwise rational homeowner break out their wallet and buy this critical addition to their home. A sump pump is just a device that pumps excess water from the basement periodically as needed.

5. Get flood insurance - it could save your life! 

Damage in the aftermath of a flood can cause you to never be able to afford another house. Flood coverage comes with increased rates that are inexpensive when compared with the financial loss that is possible without it. Flood Insurance may help you protect your property by providing cash for damages, renting hotel rooms, and paying temporary living expenses.

Things you should do to protect your home and minimize the damage once the flood is already happening

1. Put on your boots and grab any valuables you can carry

When you feel the water getting higher, your first instinct may be to reach for your phone, grab a wallet, and anything else that you can carry. Think about what matters most – it could be things like food and medication – and move those first. Next, find your most waterproof shoes, and get moving away from the flood. 

2. Unplug electronics, TVs, computers, etc. to prevent water damage

Power surges not only cause physical damage to electronic equipment but also result in data loss and archiving. It is highly suggested to unplug all electrical appliances before flooding occurs so they are protected when inundated by floodwater or even heavy rainwater that might soak into cables.

3. Turn off the gas if you have a gas stove or fireplace

When you have flooding in your house, turn off all sources of natural gas including the stove and fireplace. It's important to remember that natural gas is combustible, meaning it produces flammable vapors that can ignite if they come into contact with sparks or open flame.

4. Close all doors and windows before evacuating your home

This will also protect an otherwise flooded basement or first floor from more moisture on second or third floors that are above ground level. Opening doors = more moisture on second or third floors that are above ground level = mold growth and other problems like ceiling collapse and wood rot in furniture and walls (from excess water).

Things you should do to protect your home and avoid flood damage after the flood has already happened

1. Remove all standing water from your home

It's crucial that you get any standing water removed from your home within 24 hours to avoid mold growth. Standing water becomes contaminated by microbes and breeds mosquitoes. You can remove some of the standing water with towels, but don't use it for anything else because the pests on the towel will contaminate other areas in your home.

2. Check for structural damage to the house, including cracks in the walls or floors

Most often, signs of water damage can be seen at the roofline and will be in the form of discoloration and staining. Cracks in walls could also indicate that there is an existing issue with water leaks either from outside or inside. Another visible sign may involve moldy smells, leaks around windowsills and if you see dark stains on your ceiling or floors this could indicate excess moisture caused by plumbing problems or leaks in your roof.

3. Contact insurance company to file a claim as soon as possible

Water damage isn't just an inconvenience anymore. It can lead to expensive water restoration problems if not taken care of quickly because it causes mold and mildew growth that carry health risks for occupants. The sooner you file a claim with your insurance company, the better off it is for everyone involved!

4. Call a restoration company that has experience in flood damage repair

Contact a water damage Miami restoration company as soon as possible after a flooding incident so they may take the necessary measures to safely and effectively dry out your home. Remember when you've encountered an expensive disaster like this that prompt action could save you major headaches and expenses down the road.