How to Clean Up a Flooded Basement: Know The Options for Cleaning and Deodorizing

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How to Clean Up a Flooded Basement: Know The Options for Cleaning and Deodorizing

7 March 2022
 Categories: , Blog


The threat of water damage is one of the greatest fears homeowners face. It could happen in the middle of the night or while you're at work, and it's only a matter of hours before the water has left its damaging mark behind. Oftentimes, homeowners are unaware they have a problem with flooding until it's too late and their basement floors or walls have become saturated with water. It can be panic-inducing to hear that water has found its way inside your home. There are many options for restoring and deodorizing items that have been affected by water damage. An inspection will need to be done to determine the source of trouble and find the most efficient solution to your flooding problems.

Determine the Source of the Water

It is important to determine where the water came from when dealing with any flooding in your home. If it was because of a pipe in the basement or washing machine hose that burst, you can assume that the water is clean. On the other hand, if it is caused by a sewer backup or flooding outside your home, you need to assume that the water does contain some bacteria and chemicals.

If this is the case, do not enter the basement until you have spoken with a restoration company that specializes in cleaning out flooded basements. They will be able to give you advice on how to protect yourself from harmful bacteria and chemicals.

Preventative Measures

If you are in the process of cleaning up water damage, then you should know that there are some important steps that need to be taken after the water has been removed. It is also important to know what your options are when it comes to cleaning and deodorizing your basement.

You will need to remove items stored in the basement after cleaning up the water. Look for any items that may have been damaged by the flood. These can include furniture and any other personal belongings that were stored in your basement. You will want to get rid of these items as soon as possible, so they do not cause any more damage or mold problems in your basement. The next step is to remove all of the carpeting from your basement and replace it with new carpeting or hardwood flooring. This prevents mold from growing on your floors and will help keep mold spores from spreading throughout your home.

Stop Additional Water Damage

Preventing additional damage is key when you're dealing with a flooded basement. You may be able to ward off mold and mildew by keeping the area dry and well ventilated. Keep in mind that your existing heating and cooling system may not be enough to prevent mold growth if it wasn't designed for humid or moist spaces, so you may need to invest in a dehumidifier or dedicated ventilation system.

You may also need to remove carpeting, drywall, insulation, or other materials if they have been soaked through with water. However, it's important to note that there are different ways to tackle these issues depending on how severe the flood damage is. For example, if your walls have only been partially damaged by water, it might be possible to save them by using special drying tools — but if the walls are soaked through, you might need to replace them entirely. Consult with a trusted contractor before proceeding with any major clean-up efforts to determine the best option for your home.

Dry Out Your Wet Basement

Drying out the basement of your home after flooding is one of the most important steps in the restoration process. You are going to need to remove all the standing water and whatever moisture is left behind. You might need to use heaters and fans to help with the process of drying out the basement. To ensure there are not any lingering smells or mold problems, make sure that everything is completely dry before continuing with the repairs and finishing the basement. 

Cleaning up the damage is just the beginning of the long water damage restoration process. Contact a water damage restoration service (for example, SERVPRO OF BEND) to get the professional help you need dealing with these issues.