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How to Restore Water Damaged Items

How to Restore Water Damaged Items

When water from a flood, a leaky pipe, or heavy rainfall damages our property, it can be overwhelming. We are often so preoccupied with structural damage, we tend to overlook the small stuff. These are the items in our homes that hold sentimental value. Let’s take a look at how we can salvage our valuable family treasures.

Salvaging Wooden Furniture

Dry out wood furniture pieces that get wet. Place them in a well-ventilated area where the temperature is warm. An operating fan will speed up the drying process. Wet spots can also be fixed. If they are dark, bleach the finish on the wood and repeat. For white spots, gently rub a mixture of baking soda and toothpaste into the spot.

Drying Wet Textiles

Your wardrobe can possibly be salvaged. First, identify what textiles can be saved. Wash them in hot water, detergent, and chlorine bleach. If you have upholstered furniture that got wet, try using a steam cleaner to extract moisture. Clean it with upholstery detergent and rinse with distilled water. Let it dry in areas with running fans and dehumidifiers.

Saving Water Damaged Electronics

If an electronic device gets wet, disconnect it from the power supply and turn it off. Remove the battery and the USB or SD card. Dry the device with a soft cloth. Put the electronic device in rice to help draw out the moisture until a professional can check it.

Restoring Documents and Photos

Don’t throw out important paperwork or photo albums that were damaged by water. There are ways to recover them. Put documents in a dry place. Place each loose sheet on a non-printed paper towel. Carefully remove wet photos from their enclosure and let them air dry. If books are suffering from water damage, lay the book flat and open. Place non-printed paper towels between sections of pages.

Fixing Wet Framed Artwork

If your artwork gets wet, here’s what you can do. Remove the artwork from the frame. If the picture is stable, gently blot away the wetness with a clean towel. Let it dry indoors in a place with good air circulation away from heat and sunlight. If the painting is damaged, consult a professional conservator. If photos, artwork, or documents are stuck to the glass of a frame, leave them alone so they can air dry.

Water Damaged Leather Goods

Use a lukewarm, wet sponge to remove mud and work out water stains. Blot dry with soft cloths or towels. Apply a leather protector. To keep rawhide, semi-tanned leather, and fur supple, gently and frequently manipulate them during drying.

Drying Wet Basketry

If baskets get wet, gently rinse, drain, and blot them to remove excess water. Don’t wring or twist to dry. Stuff the baskets with paper towels or cotton sheets to absorb stains and keep the shape. Let the baskets air dry, regularly changing the blotting material.

Let Us Clean It Up

If your home has suffered water, flood, or fire damage, Flood Department is here to help. We provide repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke, biohazards, and more. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online for more information.

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Flash Floods: How to Survive If One Strikes

Flash Floods: How to Survive If One Strikes

When excessive rainfall strikes, flash flooding often follows suit. Although it can happen anywhere, flash floods are especially common in low lying areas. They can be deadly and costly. Here are some flash flooding facts and tips to survive.

What Causes Flash Floods

Most flash flooding is fueled by slow moving thunderstorms, repeat thunderstorms in the same area, or heavy rains from hurricanes and tropical storms. A dam or levee failure, or a sudden release of water held by an ice jam, can also trigger them.

Cities Are High Risk

Flash floods pose a significant threat to urban areas. City infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, and parking lots can’t absorb water. The water rapidly accumulates and leads to increased runoff. The infrastructure disrupts the natural flow of water into rivers, streams, and wetlands. Cities can’t handle the excess water.

High Water Volume

Flash floods carry a high amount of water. In extreme cases, water levels can reach up to 30 feet or more. The powerful surge can cause severe damage to anything in its path, including buildings, infrastructure, and natural landscapes.

Floodwaters Are Dangerous

Floodwaters can sweep you away. Vehicles can become difficult to drive in just six inches of water and be swept away in as little as 18 inches. It takes only six inches to sweep a person off their feet. People often underestimate the force and depth of floodwaters. Never risk driving or walking through them. Always turn around, don’t drown.

Flash Flooding Is Deadly

Flash flooding is the number one storm-related killer in the United States. The 30-year average for flood deaths is around 127 people per year. National Weather Service data indicates nearly half of all flash flood deaths are vehicle related.

Hefty Price Tag

Flash floods can cause significant structural damage. Just 12 inches of floodwater on a 2,000-square-foot building can cost $50,000 or more. Flash floods cause billions of dollars in property damage annually across the U.S.

Flash Flood Survival Tips

Here are some basic safety rules to follow in the event of flooding.

Evacuate if you are told to leave. Avoid bridges over fast moving water. Get to higher ground.

If you get trapped on a roof, stay put until help arrives. Get on top of your vehicle if it stalls in water. Never drive through water. Don’t wade in floodwater as there may be hidden debris or downed power lines. Don’t outrun the water. Many people perish when they attempt this instead of moving to higher ground.

Flash Flood Preparations

Here are some tips to follow to make sure you are prepared to handle a flash flood.

Monitor the Weather Forecast. If a flash flood warning is issued for your area, quickly move to higher ground.

Prepare a Disaster Kit. This is especially important if you live in a flood prone area. Include extra water and food, blankets, extra clothes, a first aid kit, prescription medications, a flashlight, a portable radio, and extra batteries.

Know the Hazards in Your Area. Contact your local National Weather Service, emergency management office, or the American Red Cross for information.

Make a Plan. Meet with your family and create a plan in the event of an emergency.

Let Us Handle the Mess

When it comes to water, flood, or fire damage, Flood Department is here to help. We provide water damage repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses. We cover Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the unfortunate results. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online.

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Kitchen Flooding: What to Do When it Strikes

Kitchen Flooding: What to Do When it Strikes

Waking up to a kitchen flood is not the ideal way to start the day. Sinks and faucets, refrigerators, garbage disposals, and dishwashers are the most common culprits of unexpected flooding. Broken pipes, clogs, and leaks are usually to blame. Here’s how to keep the water under control.

Causes of Kitchen Flooding

The kitchen faucet. There are several places along the water supply line to your sink that can spring a leak. These include corroded pipes, worn-out gaskets or washers, a cracked or poorly sealed faucet, and a loosely connected P-trap. Kids who enjoy tugging on the sink sprayer can damage it and loosen connections.

The garbage disposal. This useful gadget can leak where it connects to the sink or drain. Leaks can also occur where the dishwasher drain pipe attaches to the garbage disposal.

 A plugged up drain. When water comes up through the kitchen sink drain, there’s most likely a clog. A blockage in the P-trap below your sink can cause wastewater to go in the wrong direction.

The dishwasher. While it’s a beneficial feature, if a dishwasher leaks, water will spill out through the door or from underneath. Leaks can also be subtle and go unnoticed for some time. A warped or soft floor by the appliance and wet spots are signs of a problem.

The refrigerator. Broken water lines can lead to leaks and water damage. Gaskets can also fail. Waterline failures can cause major flooding in short periods of time.

Water pipes. On very cold days, the pipes under the kitchen sink can freeze and burst, causing significant water damage. If the pipes stay intact, the frozen water can compromise connections and cause leaks.

Kitchen Flood Prevention Tips

Here are some action steps you can take to help prevent kitchen flooding.

Keep the kitchen sink flowing. Clogs are commonly caused by food scraps that go down the drain; fat, oil, and grease that solidifies; human hair and fallen objects. Invest in a drain cover to keep unwanted stuff out.

Clean the dishwasher. Remove any loose food particles that can build up over time. Also, check for clogs, a worn door seal, or a broken or loose water hose.

Inspect water dispensers and ice makers. These refrigerator features can cause unexpected kitchen flooding. A loose water line hose and cracks in the plastic pipe are often to blame.

Fancy sink gadgets. These modern conveniences can pose problems. For instance, some items should never be ground up in a garbage disposal. Coffee grounds, eggshells, and potato peels are better left for the compost pile. If you spot water under your sink, check your water filtration system for leaks.

Let Us Repair the Damage

When it comes to water, flood, or fire damage,  Flood Department is here to help. We provide water damage repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses. Our service area covers Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke, and more. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online.

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Common Causes of Household Leaks

Common Causes of Household Leaks

Water leaks can pop up in pipes, drain lines, plumbing fixtures, or appliances. They can cause major damage if left alone. Here are some common household leaks and how to prevent them.

Signs of a Leak

Water leaks go unnoticed in nearly 10% of households which wastes about 90 gallons per day. There are certain red flags that indicate your home may be a victim. Check for them.

An inexplicable high water bill is one. Leaks in toilets, faucets, and showerheads are common culprits.

A sudden decrease in water pressure may mean a water supply pipe is leaking or blocked. Sediment build-up in pipes, water leaks, and broken valves are common causes of low water pressure.

The sound of water. If you hear water running, rattling, or hissing when the plumbing fixtures are off, check for a leak.

Other signs of a leak include mold and mildew growth; peeling or blistering paint or wallpaper; and warped, stained, or sagging floors and ceilings.

A slow leak can go undetected for months or years. Homeowners need to inspect their plumbing regularly inside and outside. Look for moisture around the pipes. If leaks are detected and repaired early, it will save you money down the road.

Common Causes of Household Leaks

Faucets and Toilets. A running toilet can be repaired by shortening the flapper chain or replacing the flapper. A leaky faucet can be fixed by replacing the washer. If water keeps dripping into the sink, consider buying a new faucet.

Tub or Sink Cracks. They can cause water to leak out of the basin that’s supposed to be holding it in. Cracks can occur from frequent use, general wear and tear, impact damage, or corrosion. Get them repaired before further use.

Hose Connections. Broken or loose connections can create wet spots in your yard or cause areas to appear to be sunken down. An underground leak is most likely to blame. Find the leak as soon as possible, and tighten the connection or replace it if necessary.

Old Rubber Seals. The seals or washers on appliances that frequently use water can become worn out. As a result, this can cause dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines to leak. Get the seals replaced.

Clogged Drain Lines. Water that would usually drain into the sewer or septic system has no place to go. Instead, it backs up in the sink, tub, appliance, or laundry basin. Clear the clogged drain or call a plumber.

Corroded Pipes. For many years, galvanized iron and lead pipes were used in homes. These substances can degrade pipes, causing them to become paper thin. It’s best to replace old pipes and fittings with new copper or plastic ones.

Old Water Heater. Look around the base for signs of leaks. A standard water heater typically lasts 8 to 12 years. Even a small leak can cause big problems. Get the water heater inspected regularly and keep it maintained.

Stopping Leaks

If you find a plumbing leak in your home, here are ways to stop it. Locate your home’s main water valve and shut it off. Install shut-off valves at individual appliances and fixtures. Put in a flow sensor that detects plumbing leaks and automatically shuts off water. Remove hoses from outdoor spigots in the winter. Add insulation to pipes in colder parts of your house.

Most importantly, you must fix problems quickly. Even small leaks can cause significant water damage or mold if left untouched.

Let Us Clean Up

When it comes to water, flood, or fire damage, Flood Department is here to help. We provide water damage repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses. Our service area covers Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the unfortunate results. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online.

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Home Fire Prevention & Safety Tips

Home Fire Prevention & Safety Tips

House fires are a devastating occurrence. Each year, an average of 358,300 homes in the U.S. go up in flames. Fires can destroy a home, cause property damage, leave emotional scars, and upset living quarters. Here are ways to lessen the chances a blaze will impact your household.

Fire Safety Tips

Here are some fire prevention tips to help protect your home from a disaster.

Install smoke alarms. Put them on every level of your home and by sleeping areas. Test them once a month to make sure they are working. Change the batteries twice a year.

Create a family escape plan. You have less than 2 minutes to escape your home safely. Everyone should know two ways out of each room. Decide on a meeting location outside and practice your plan twice a year.

Stay outside. Never go back into a burning home. Once you get outside, stay there, and call for help. Everyone should know how to dial 9-1-1.

Have a communications plan. Each family member should know who to contact if they become separated.

Stop, drop, and roll. Teach family members what to do if their clothes catch on fire.

Home Fire Safety

Here are some fire safety Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind to ensure your home and family stay safe.

Keep items that can catch fire at least three feet away from space heaters. Turn the appliance off when you leave the room or go to sleep.

Smoking materials are the leading cause of residential fire deaths in the United States. If you smoke, go outside. Never smoke in bed.

Talk to your kids about the dangers of fire, matches, and lighters. Keep anything flammable out of reach.

Inspect Your Home

You need to keep an eye on important items in your home. Check heating sources to make sure they are clean and working well. Many fires are sparked by poorly maintained furnaces, stoves, or chimneys with creosote buildup.

Inspect the electrical wiring. Fix or replace frayed cords, exposed wires, or loose plugs. Electric outlets should have cover plates and no exposed wiring. Avoid overloading outlets or extension cords.

Preventing Kitchen Fires

Cooking fires are the number one cause of house fires.  Unattended cooking is to blame for 90% of them. Never leave food unattended while it’s cooking. Keep potholders, oven mitts, paper, and other flammable items away from the heat. Clean cooking surfaces regularly to prevent grease buildup. Always check the kitchen before bed to make sure the stove and appliances are turned off.

Recovering After a Fire

If you have suffered a house fire, take these steps to get back on your feet.

Find a safe place to stay. If family or friends don’t have room, talk to your local disaster relief agency.

Contact your insurance agent. You’ll need to start a claim to address your immediate needs.

Protect your home. Make sure it’s protected as much as possible from weather and unlawful entry.

Check your pets. Smoke can damage lungs and burns can hide under fur. Bring your pets to the vet for an evaluation.

Get a copy of the fire report. It will be helpful to your insurance company.

Address mental health needs. Adults and children can have difficulty coping with a disaster. Seek support if it’s needed.

Let Us Clean Up the Mess

If your home has suffered water, flood, or fire damage, Flood Department is here to help. We provide repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke, and more. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online for more information.

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How to Survive a Flood

How to Survive a Flood

Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States. In 2022, the nation saw 19 major flood events and 103 people lost their lives. In 2021, flash flooding and river floods killed 146 people. So far in 2023, at least 32 people have died. If you live in a flood-susceptible area, here are some flood safety tips you need to know.

Make Preparations

If bad weather is on the way, be prepared to take action. Pay close attention to weather alerts on the radio, television, or your cell phone. A flood watch means a flood is possible in your area. A flood warning means flooding is occurring or will be soon. Be ready to evacuate quickly.

Have an emergency flood survival kit ready to go. It should have at least three days of supplies for each family member. Items should include non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, portable phone chargers, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a 7-day supply of medications, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene and sanitation items, and copies of important documents.

Make sure your drainage systems are clear of debris. Clogging can lead to flooding and property damage.

Flash Flooding Guidelines

If there’s any chance of flash flooding, move to higher ground immediately. The sheer force and volume of flowing water that can accumulate is extremely dangerous. Flash floods can occur quickly when water overflows from streams and other areas prone to sudden flooding.

If You Are Stuck in a Flood

If a flood warning is issued for your area, prepare to head for higher ground. Move essential items to the upper floor of your home. If told to do so, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves. Unplug electrical appliances. Never touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

Six inches of water is all it takes to sweep you off your feet. Never walk or drive through moving water. People underestimate its force. Always remember to “turn around, don’t drown”. 

Driving in Floods

Half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into flood waters. Turn around and go another way if you come upon high water. If floodwaters rise around your car, get out and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. Six inches of water can stall your vehicle or cause you to lose control. One foot of water will float many vehicles while two feet of rushing water can carry you away.

Trapped in a Vehicle

If you are inside a sinking vehicle, take these steps to help you get out safely.

Don’t panic. Take a deep breath and focus on safely escaping your vehicle.

Unbuckle your seatbelt. Open your window immediately and swim out. Don’t open the door.

Don’t use the car as a floatie. Swim with the flow of the water until you reach higher ground.

Break the window. If it won’t open, use a sharp object, a rock, or your heel to smash it.

Following a Flood

Return home after a flooding event only when authorities say it’s safe. Listen to news reports to learn if the local water supply is ok to drink. Be careful on roads where floodwaters have receded. They may be too weak to hold a vehicle. Stay away from downed power lines. Use extreme caution when entering buildings which could be damaged. Clean and disinfect everything that got wet.

Let Us Clean Up the Mess

If your home has suffered water, flood, or fire damage, or you need a biohazard cleanup, Flood Department is here to help. We provide repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke, biohazards, and more. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online for more information.

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How to Clean Up Home Biohazards

Cleaning Up Home Biohazards

Flood waters and sewage that impacts communities can contain harmful contaminants. Have you ever thought about what biohazards are lurking in your own home? Here is what you need to know.

Types of Home Biohazards

Bodily fluids from a human or animal may be contaminated with viruses, bacteria and other toxins that can make you sick. This type of waste will need professional removal and clean up. Examples include the aftermath of an accident, violent crime, death, or suicide in the home.

Sharp objects such as syringes, broken glass, knives, or blades are common household biohazards.  Handle these objects with care and teach your children about their dangers. Also, make sure medical waste is disposed of properly in approved containers.

Solid waste. Gloves, towels, or clothing that comes into contact with a biohazard is considered contaminated. These objects must be handled properly.

Pathological waste. In the home, this basically pertains to an animal carcass. The clean-up of animal or human organs, tissues and body parts should always be handled by a professional.

Professionals should always be hired to clean up a death scene. Traditional home sanitizing products aren’t strong enough to erase the contamination left by a dead body.

Biohazards in the Workplace

Hazardous biological agents are also found in the workplace. Medical or clinical staff are at risk of bloodborne pathogens like HIV. Workers can also be exposed to environmental pathogens such as mold and Legionnaires disease. First responders and researchers are at risk of weaponized biological agents like anthrax. Infectious diseases like COVID-19 can also harm anyone who is exposed.

Medical personnel, janitors, cleaning staff and childcare workers can easily come into contact with urine, vomit and feces. Food and farm workers who handle animal products and waste are also exposed to potential biohazards, including rodent or bird droppings. Organic matter like garbage, wastewater and sewage can also be contaminated. Biting or stinging insects also pose a health risk to some people.

Biohazards Caused by Rodents

If you have rats or mice in your home, it’s important to clean up after them. This includes safely disposing of their urine, feces, nesting materials, and their dead bodies.

The CDC lists some precautions you should take while cleaning up the mess.

Gather a household cleaning disinfectant or make a fresh homemade bleach solution. Wear rubber or plastic gloves. Spray insect repellent on clothes, shoes, and gloves to protect you from flea bites. Spray an EPA-registered disinfectant on rodent urine and droppings to kill germs. Scoop up the wet mess with paper towels and throw them into a garbage bag for disposal. Next, mop or sponge the area with a disinfectant. Clean your gloves with soap and water. Remove them and thoroughly wash your hands.

Seek help if you become ill and believe it’s due to a rodent-borne disease. Talk to your healthcare provider.

Let Us Clean Up the Mess

If your home has suffered water, flood, or fire damage, or you need a biohazard cleanup, Flood Department is here to help. We provide repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke, biohazards and more. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online for more information.

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Why Do I Need Flood Insurance?

Why Do I Need Flood Insurance?

Why Invest in Flood Insurance

Flooding is often unexpected and can quickly wreak havoc. According to FEMA, just one inch of water can cause up to $25,000 in damage. Most homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. Flood insurance must be purchased separately.  It’s one of the best ways residents and business owners can protect themselves against financial losses due to high water.

Flooding Risk in Maryland

The Maryland Emergency Management Agency reports Maryland is prone to flooding. The agency notes short bursts of heavy rain can impact small streams and creeks and lead to flash flooding. Prolonged steady rain can impact larger streams and rivers and cause widespread flooding. Hurricanes and tropical storms can lead to tidal flooding along Maryland’s bays and tributaries. Find out if your neighborhood is at risk for flooding by visiting  https://mema.maryland.gov/Pages/flood-Prone-Zones.aspx.

The Mid-Atlantic and Northeastern states get hit with high rainfall, but less frequently than the Gulf states do. As a result, the Mid-Atlantic area is less prepared to handle the impacts of flooding.

The Benefits of Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is available to all homeowners, business owners and renters. You don’t have to be in a high-risk flood zone to purchase it. The coverage can stop the need to dip into your savings or take on debt to make repairs to flood-damaged property. Having flood insurance helps victims recover faster when floodwaters recede.

What Flood Insurance Covers

Flood insurance is available primarily through the federally run National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Under the NFIP, residential property owners can buy coverage of up to $250,000 in structural damages and up to $100,000 for personal property. Businesses can buy up to $500,000 in coverage for damage to buildings and another $500,000 for damage to contents.

The NFIP provides flood insurance to people in areas highly prone to flooding. These are called SFHAs, or Special Flood Hazard Areas.  SFHAs are also known as the 100-year floodplain.

Some private insurers also offer flood insurance. The options typically offer more flexibility and broader coverage than the federal government does.

The Cost of Flood Insurance

How much you have to fork over for flood insurance varies by flood zone, the coverage you buy, and characteristics of your property. NFIP policies for single-family homes inside a floodplain cost an average of $1,100 per year. It will run you about $490 annually if you have a home outside the Special Flood Hazard Area. Flood insurance is mandatory for certain homes in the SFHA, also known as the 100-year floodplain.

Although flood insurance isn’t legally required for all properties, it’s a good idea to have it. Properties outside flood prone areas account for 20% of all NFIP claims and receive 33% of federal disaster assistance for flooding.  Flood insurance can be quite affordable for homes outside FEMA’s high-risk flood zones.

Let Us Repair the Damage

When it comes to water, flood or fire damage,  Flood Department is here to help. We provide water damage repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses. We cover Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke and more. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online.

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Cleaning Up Your Home After a Storm

Cleaning Up Your Home After a Storm

When the summer heat and humidity kicks in, so do nasty thunderstorms.  The barrage of rain, wind, lightning and even hail can do a number on your home and yard. Here’s how to cope if a bad storm strikes.

Keep an Eye on the Sky

It’s tempting to want to get going on cleaning up, but make sure you wait until weather conditions have improved. Stay up to date with your local forecast or check out NOAA weather.

Avoid Potential Dangers

When cleaning up after a bad storm, look around for hazardous conditions. Here are some tips to avoid potential dangers.

Check the risk. Evaluate what kind of risk you may be facing before you start cleaning up the mess. If an area looks dangerous, stay out of it. Severely damaged structures can be unsafe. Contact your local government for the next steps. You may need a safety inspection before you can enter your home.

Flooded rooms. Stay out of the water. Floodwater can contain dangerous bacteria. It also poses a safety risk if it comes into contact with electrical or gas appliances. If it’s safe to do so, turn off the power and gas lines in your home. If the shut-off valves are in the water, call a professional for assistance.

Ask for Help. If your home is a total loss, call local emergency services for help. Also contact your home insurance company before tackling the damage. If you notice any downed power lines, avoid them. Report them to local police and utility companies.

Wear Proper Protective Gear

When you are ready for clean-up, make sure you are wearing the proper protective gear.  Put on a hard hat, safety goggles, heavy-duty work gloves and waterproof boots.  Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt are also recommended. Put on an N95 respirator mask if you have one.

How to Clean Up Safely

It can take days or weeks to clean up after a severe storm. Here are some safety tips to help you navigate through the clean up process.

Tackling Indoor Cleanup

If your home is safe to enter, check for hazards such as frayed wiring. Sparks and a burning smell can also spell trouble. If there are issues, shut off the power immediately. If you smell gas, turn off the main gas valve.  Evacuate your home until the problems are resolved.

Once you’re out of danger, document your damages by taking photos and videos. Take detailed notes too. This will come in handy when you file your insurance claim.

Be careful not to step on exposed nails or broken glass while you’re exploring around the house. Also, clean up any spilled medicines, flammable liquids or potentially hazardous materials you find.

Next, set aside piles for different types of storm debris. These can include electronics, large appliances, hazardous and household waste, and construction materials. This will make clean-up and trash pick-up easier.

Safe Outdoor Cleanup

When you are ready to assess the yard damage,  take a look at your trees. Pick up any fallen branches and remove any dangling ones. Get them out of the way so you don’t trip over them. If you have the experience, grab a chainsaw for some tree trimming. Follow proper safety protocols before you begin, including ensuring the tree isn’t touching any power lines. If the tree is too large to handle, call in a pro to do the work.

Once the yard is safe to clean up, grab some trash bags. Pick up any loose debris. Use a shovel or rake to collect the yard waste. Put it in a heavy-duty trash bag. Be sure to clean out your gutters to keep them from clogging up. Check the roof as well. High winds, flying debris and fallen trees can damage your shingles.

Prepare for Outages

Have a plan in case the power goes out. Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights to see in the dark. Avoid using candles. Keep extra batteries on hand to power up flashlights and portable radios. Purchase a portable charger for your phone. Disconnect appliances and electronics to prevent damage from electrical surges. Have non-perishable food on hand. Keep refrigerators and freezers closed.

You can use a generator for emergency power, but don’t turn it on during severe weather or in wet conditions. Run it only outdoors several feet away from the house.

Let Us Clean Up the Mess

When it comes to home disasters,  Flood Department is here to help. We provide repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke and more. We cover Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Contact us today at 301-829-2600 or visit us online.

Sources

https://reviewed.usatoday.com/home-outdoors/features/how-safely-clean-up-your-home-and-yard-after-tornado

https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/after-the-storm

https://community.fema.gov/ProtectiveActions/s/article/Thunderstorm-Lightning-and-Hail

https://www.ready.gov/power-outages

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How to Clean and Remove Black Mold

How to Clean and Remove Black Mold

Wet areas in our homes, like bathrooms and kitchens, are ideal spots for mold to grow. Black mold is especially troublesome when it thrives where we live. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also cause health issues. Here are some proven ways to attack black mold and win the battle.

Common Household Molds

There are three common types of mold found in our homes that can have health effects.

Allergenic molds are the kinds that kick up allergies. Signs of a mold allergy include itching in the nose, eyes or throat; stuffy nose, sneezing and coughing. These molds can be safely removed with disinfecting products.

A pathogenic mold is one that can cause an infection in humans, even if they are healthy. This type of mold can reproduce and colonize inside the human body. It can be controlled with disinfectants, but large colonies in the home require professional treatment.

Toxic molds produce mycotoxins known to harm humans. Prolonged exposure to high levels can lead to neurological problems and possibly death. These molds require professional treatment and affected items must be removed. Toxic black mold can be dangerous when it’s inhaled or ingested, possibly resulting in serious respiratory problems.

What is Black Mold

Black mold looks like black stains or dots growing in irregular circular patterns. It’s most often found in homes that have been exposed to excessive amounts of water and humidity. Toxic black mold, also known as stachybotrys chartarum, can also have a grayish, soot-like texture, or a slimy, wet surface. Sometimes, it has a greenish-black hue.

Skilled DIYers can remove small patches themselves, but the job is best left to the pros. The EPA recommends mold colonies that cover more than 10 square feet be professionally removed.

Black Mold Removal

If you spot black mold, clean it up immediately. If it’s left to sit on a surface, small colonies will grow larger in just a few days. Areas prone to high humidity should be checked weekly for signs of mold growth.

So, how do you get rid of black mold? Before you start cleaning, open doors and windows to ensure adequate ventilation. Next, put on rubber gloves, eye protection and old clothes that can be tossed. Make sure you wear a face mask too. You will also want a spray bottle for the cleaning solution. 

Black Mold Cleaning Solutions

The first step you should take to remove mold is to scrub the affected area with soap and water. It may be all you need to remove surface mold. If the problem is more extensive, here are some other cleaning solutions you can try.

A diluted bleach solution. This works to remove mold growing on white surfaces and non-porous ones, such as countertops and tiles. If the mold doesn’t come off right away, let the solution soak in for at least 15 minutes, then wipe it off.

White vinegar. This is best to use when mold has seeped into a surface. Vinegar will penetrate and kill the mold and mildew at the root.

Natural cleaners. There are natural cleaners  in your pantry you can use to kill mold. Baking soda has successfully removed black mold from grout between tiles. Tree tea oil, a natural fungicide, can also do the trick. Just mix a teaspoon of it with one cup of water. Hydrogen peroxide has antifungal and antibacterial properties that remove mold and keep it from coming back.

Let Us Clean Up the Mess

If you have a mold problem,  Flood Department is here to help. We provide repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke and more. We cover Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. For more information, call us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online.

Sources

https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-get-rid-of-black-mold-5199449

https://www.homesandgardens.com/bathrooms/how-to-get-rid-of-black-mold

https://www.bobvila.com/articles/how-to-remove-black-mold/

https://www.thisoldhouse.com/green-home/21331232/killing-mold-on-wood

https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-get-rid-of-black-mold/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90a432a6d0