So we’ve talked a lot about preventing basement floods with waterproofing services but now we want to cover what you should do if you haven’t had a chance to hire us yet and are now dealing with a basement flood.

We know it can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do and acting quickly can help minimize the damage and prevent subsequent issues like mold growth.

1\ ENSURE SAFETY FIRST

  • Power Down: Do not enter a flooded basement if the electricity is still on. Turn off power at the main breaker panel or call an electrician if it’s not safe to do so yourself.

  • Ventilate: If possible, open windows to allow fresh air in and potential gases out.

  • Protect Yourself: Use protective gear like waterproof gloves, boots, and a mask to avoid exposure to contaminants.

2\ IDENTIFY THE SOURCE OF WATER

  • External Flooding or Internal Leak: Determine if the water is coming from an external source, like rain or groundwater, or from an internal sources such as a burst pipe.

  • Stop the Source: If it’s a plumbing issue, shut off the main water valve.

  • Call Your Insurance Company:Before going any further now may be the time to contact your insurance company to see if you’re covered for flood and water damage. They may have suggestions or requirements on how to handle the situation.

3\ REMOVE WATER

  • Pump It Out: Use a sump pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove standing water. For large floods, you may need to call a professional like Service Master Niagara to help address the disaster.

  • Soak Up Residual Moisture: After pumping out the majority of standing water, use towels or a mop to soak up remaining water.

what to do after a basement flood

4\ REMOVE DAMAGED ITEMS

  • Move Items to a Dry Area: Quickly move any salvageable furniture, rugs, and items to a dry, well-ventilated area. Outdoors is best if that’s possible.

  • Dispose of Contaminated Items: Unfortunately, items soaked in contaminated water may unsalvageable and might need to be disposed of.

5\ DRY THE SPACE THOROUGHLY

  • Ventilate the Basement: Use fans, open windows, and run dehumidifiers to lower moisture levels. The goal is to dry everything as quickly as possible.

  • Remove Wet Drywall and Insulation: Waterlogged walls can lead to mold growth. Cut away drywall up to a foot above the waterline and remove insulation behind it if necessary.

6\ CLEAN AND DISINFECT THE AREA

  • Scrub and Disinfect Surfaces: Use a mixture of bleach and water or a commercial disinfectant to clean floors and walls. This prevents mold and bacteria growth.

  • Steam Clean Carpets: If carpets weren’t submerged for too long, you may be able to save them with professional steam cleaning.

7\ INSPECT FOR MOULD GROWTH

  • Watch for Mold Signs: Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours, so monitor walls, floors, and belongings. Black spots, a musty smell, or fuzzy growth indicate mold.

  • Seek Professional Help if Needed: If mold growth is extensive, consider hiring a professional for removal.

8\ PREVENT FUTURE BASEMENT FLOODING

This is where we at Foundation Waterproofing By Moe come in. We offer the best in basement waterproofing and would be happy to inspect and provide solutions to avoid a repeat such as:

  • Consider Sump Pumps and Drainage: Ensure your basement has proper drainage and a working sump pump. If you already have a sump pump, test it regularly.

  • Seal Foundation Cracks: Look for cracks in walls or the foundation and seal them to prevent groundwater intrusion.

  • Weeping tile has a lifespan of 40 to 60 years

  • Landscaping, sod and garden should slope away from foundations

  • Maintain Gutters and Downspouts: Clean gutters and make sure downspouts direct water away from the house foundation.

Dealing with water damage takes time, but quick action and thorough cleanup can prevent long-term issues like mold, structural damage, and unpleasant odors.

It’s not something any of us ever want to experience, but knowing what to do and being prepared for the worst case scenario will provide some peace of mind.

If your home is 60 plus years old, rather than doing one wall or a section of the foundation, the entire house should be done to avoid potential flooding later.  It would be like only doing a portion of your roof if its leaking.  Not a good idea if you are reaching the end of the weeping tiles lifespan.