Tips For Water Damage Cleanouts
Water Damage Cleanouts NJ: It can be emotionally and physically exhausting cleaning up the mess after a flood invades your home. All that waterlogged furniture and carpeting is heavy and difficult to break apart, taking a toll not only on your back, but also on your respiratory health. That’s because mold can develop in just 48 hours, so if the items have been soaking in water for some time, take extra care.
Additionally, the water can damage weakened support structures, which is why you should always hire a professional to handle water damage cleanouts. If you decide to tackle this as a DIY project, here are some tips to follow.
Prep the Area
The first thing you should do after flooding is to make sure the property is safe for your family to return to.
- Switch off the main water and power.
- Smell for gas; check for damaged power and gas lines, exterior damage and foundation cracks.
- Beware of rodents, snakes and insects that could have drifted in with the flood waters.
- Refrain from walking on sagging floors.
- Check for any slanted floors and walls, broken pilings, and stairs that may have shifted.
- Do not enter the residence if you suspect major structural damage.
- If ceilings are wet, do not turn on lights and ceiling fans.
Cleaning Everything Up
Now that you have fully prepared the area, you can begin the cleaning process.
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- Open windows and doors to improve ventilation and hasten the drying process.
- Remove debris carefully and in pieces if you can.
- Flush the toilet to make sure there are no clogs from debris.
- Make sure your running water is safe to drink.
- Patch holes in the roof and walls with plastic wrap until you can get a professional out for a true repair.
- Remove debris and garbage right away; letting it pile up will only worsen the risk of contamination, mold and pests.
- Wash your hands often.
- Remove water that may be trapped in walls.
- Use a wet vac, fans, and dehumidifiers to dry out the home; do not use your household vacuum to get rid of water and mud.
- Remove standing water, especially outside, where mosquitoes can breed.
- Wear protective clothing, boots and rubber gloves.
- Take an inventory of everything that has been damaged; snap photos and videos for further evidence.
- Clean hard surfaces with warm water and soap.
- Remove wall coverings, drywall and insulation that could be harboring mold.
- Throw out all porous materials such as padded furniture.
- Throw out any food, beverages and medicine that may have been exposed to the flood waters.
- Disinfect dishes with soap and hot water.
- Wipe down wooden items and bring them outside to dry if possible.
- Place books, documents and photographs in baggies so you can properly clean them later.
- Get in touch with your local trash removal professional specializing in water damage cleanouts. They can remove the waterlogged items safely and efficiently.
Contact Got Trash NJ For Water Damage Cleanouts
If you have recently experienced water damage and need to dispose of water-logged furniture, carpeting and other items, call us at 732-431-2788 or complete our online form for a fast, free quote.