Tips for cleaning up after a flood

The days and weeks after a flood are usually almost if not more harrowing than experiencing the flood itself. Whether you choose to hire a water damage restoration company or pursue the cleanup on your own terms, the process can take time and be emotionally draining. Coping with both the hazards of a flooded home and the desire to salvage whatever valuables and property possible can turn into a real battle of wills between family members and even within your own mind.

There are many steps in the process of re-entering a home safely after a flood including getting clearance that there are no gas leaks and electrical hazards. You also have to make sure that the water is safe to drink and that there is no sewage line breakage so that it is safe to flush the toilet. With all this to do, there is still the time pressure counting down until the onset of mildew and mold.

Clearing the house of all traces of water and wetness is only the first of many clean-up steps. Depending on how much of the dwelling the flood affected, different methods will need to be used in order to save different items and valuables from being permanently ruined and/or contaminated.

In terms of flooring, if the water recedes or is pumped out of areas with linoleum or vinyl floor covering within a few days, the subfloor may avoid being completely ruined. However, if the plywood or hardwood subfloor is wet, you will probably need to remove the linoleum or vinyl and replace both layers.

In order to salvage wooden furniture that was submerged in flood water, take each piece outside and remove all dirt and debris using a hose if necessary and then take them back inside. If you leave them out in the sun to dry, they will warp. So, instead, take them inside to a room where they can dry slowly. Once they are dry, you will be able to re-glue if it is necessary.

For important papers, mementos and other documents, you will need to dry them slowly as well. The leaves of paper should be separated and books should be hung on end and pressed when partially dry. When you find books or papers that are especially wet, sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder on them to absorb the liquid. You may also use an iron carefully at the end of the process. Make sure it is on very low heat. Even if all these steps are taken, the papers may disintegrate much more rapidly than they would have otherwise. Photocopy any important documents so that you will at least be able to save the information that these documents and/or photographs hold for you.