Water pooling where it should not be is a major problem for homeowners in Waddell, AZ, especially when sudden monsoon downpours cause unexpected flooding. When local residents are staring at a flooded basement or a soggy crawlspace, panic often sets in very fast. Allied Restoration has pulled water out of dozens of local homes in Waddell over the years, and handling Water Damage Restoration properly makes all the difference between a quick fix and thousands of dollars in mold remediation and structural damage.
Before You Step Foot in That Water
Safety comes first, and that rule is very important. Never walk into a flooded basement if the water is touching any electrical outlets, extension cords, or your breaker panel. Shut off the power to the basement immediately at your main breaker if you can reach it safely without standing in water. If the panel is in the flooded area, call your electric utility or an electrician right away. You also want to figure out where the water is coming from. Did a supply line burst, or did our desert clay soil hold too much rainwater against your foundation until it forced its way through a crack? Knowing the source helps you stop it.
During the Cleanup: DIY vs. Pro
Once the power is off and the source is stopped, you need to get the water out quickly. If you have only a shallow puddle from a minor leak, grab your wet/dry shop vacuum, set up some box fans, and get to work. If you have more than an inch or two of standing water, a standard shop vac will require constant emptying. You will want to rent a submersible utility pump from the hardware store and run a heavy-duty hose out to your yard.
Here is where you need to draw the line between DIY and calling a professional for Water Damage Restoration services in Waddell:
- If the water is from a sewer backup, stop touching everything immediately and call a pro because that is a serious health hazard.
- If the drywall has wicked up moisture more than a couple of inches, you will need professional drying equipment.
- If the water has been sitting for more than 48 hours, mold is already starting to colonize in our warm climate.
After the Water is Gone
Getting the visible water out is only half the battle. The real work is drying out the framing, subfloors, and drywall before mold takes over. Rent commercial-grade dehumidifiers and high-velocity air movers if you are tackling this solo. Do not rely on your home built-in AC system alone; it is not designed to pull out gallons of standing moisture from building materials. Keep an eye on your baseboards and drywall corners over the next week. If they feel soft or start smelling musty, you still have trapped moisture. Fixing drainage outside your home, like extending your downspouts away from the foundation, will keep you from having to repeat this whole messy process the next time a heavy storm rolls through the valley. Allied Restoration provides Water Damage Restoration services for homes and businesses in Waddell.