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How to Cope With a Flooded Basement

How to Cope With a Flooded Basement

There is nothing worse than waking up to find water in your basement. Whether there’s an inch or a foot, it can make a big mess. If your basement takes on water, here are some tips to help you cope with the chaos.

Help for Basement Flooding

A plumber is your best bet if there’s only an inch or two of water in the basement. They can determine the source of the problem. It could be due to a broken pipe or a leaking water heater.

Call a licensed electrician if the water is high enough to reach electrical wiring or outlets. They can assess and repair the damage. Never use an electric tool or turn off the power while standing in water. Let an electrician do it for you.

If there’s significant damage to carpets or walls, contact a professional restoration service. They are experienced in handling water damage and repairs.

Causes of Basement Flooding

There are several ways water can get into a basement. Common causes include heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt, foundation cracks and broken windows, sump pump problems, and burst or leaking pipes. Poor-draining window wells, an overflowing toilet or bathtub, and a downward property slope can also contribute. Homes with older pipes and those near natural water sources are at higher risk of flooding.

Flooding Clean-Up Tips

If your basement floods, here are some steps to take to help clean it up.

Find the leak location. If it’s due to heavy rain, you’ll need to wait until the storm passes to tackle the mess.

Call a pro. If you’re having trouble finding the leak, call a plumber or disaster restoration company.

Notify the insurance company. They will tell you what your policy covers and your out-of-pocket expenses.

Pump out the water. Do this with a pool pump, a wet vacuum, or a gas-powered water pump. Get rid of the water and dry out the area immediately. Mold can start to grow within 24 to 48 hours.

Take pictures. Photograph everything impacted by the aftermath of the flood. Videos are another useful tool you can use.

Toss items out. Throw out clothing, bedding, pillows, and perishable food that may attract mold.

Scrub the floor. One cup of chlorine bleach mixed with a gallon of water can be used to disinfect the flooring. The solution can be used to clean vinyl tile, linoleum, and other hard surfaces. Wear rubber gloves and protective eyewear while cleaning. Keep the area well ventilated.

Inspect gutters, drains, and downspouts. Get rid of leaves, twigs, and mud. Use a plunger or plumber’s snake to clear drains. Clean out gutters and downspouts on the outside of the house.

Freeze important papers. Put valuable documents and papers that are damp in the freezer. This can temporarily stop mold and mildew until you can attend to them.

Leave the Cleaning to Us

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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What To Do If My Business Floods

What To Do If My Business Floods

Have you ever asked yourself, what should i do if my business floods? Well, we ahve some valuable advice for you that can certainly help.

When we think of flooding, pictures of homes and the people who live in them often come to mind. However, businesses can also be devastated by the impact of high water. Here’s how to cope if your operation is struck by flood waters.

Preparing for a Flood

Flooding can occur anytime and anywhere. The best defense is to be prepared for a flood emergency.

Get flood insurance. You will need it. Keep in mind that it typically takes 30 days for an insurance policy to kick in. Check out the National Flood Insurance Program webpage for more information.

Have a business continuity plan. You must have a plan of action in case of a flood emergency. If you already have one, get together the resources you need to secure business operations. If you don’t, you’ll need to get a business impact analysis (BIA) done. This predicts how a disruption will likely impact the way your business functions and what recovery strategies are needed.

How to Handle a Flood

Here are some necessary steps you need to take if your business is hit with flood waters.

Reach out to employees, customers, and suppliers. Communication with these major players is vital to your business success.

Contact your insurance agent to start your flood insurance claim. Have your policy number and a phone number or email address where you can be reached.

Turn off the utilities. The services at the flood site need to be temporarily shut down. This will save you money as you won’t be using them. Turn the utilities back on when your business is ready to re-open.

Surveying Flood Damage

Always keep safety in mind while inspecting your property following a flood disaster. Never enter a flooded area where standing water may be energized. Use caution when re-entering buildings as there may be structural damage. Have a safety assessment done first. When it’s safe, go back inside and survey the damage. Determine what can be salvaged and how long recovery efforts might take. Begin the recovery process for documents and records. Start cleaning up.

Recovering from a Flood

Now it’s time to record the financial losses your property suffered. Here are a few key steps to follow.

Take inventory. Document all of the items that are missing or damaged. Snap Pictures. Take photos of everything inside and outside your property. Keep receipts. Record any expenses you incurred to temporarily protect your property from further damage. Make a claim. Follow the claims filing procedure in your insurance policy.

How to Flood-Proof Your Property

You can take measures to prevent future flood disasters from striking your property.

First, determine your base flood elevation, or BFE. This is the height that best reduces the chance your property will be damaged by flooding. Buildings should be at least three feet above the BFE.

Landscape with native plants and vegetation. This can help prevent soil erosion and allow flood waters to properly drain.

Raise electric components. Have a licensed electrician install switches, sockets, circuit breakers, and wiring at least 12 inches above your BFE. Move HVAC equipment to an upper floor or build a flood proof wall around it.

Use flood resistant materials. These include floor and wall coverings and insulation. Most of these can handle direct contact with water for at least 72 hours.

Have backup power. Have a system in place to power vital equipment to keep your business running.

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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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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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 tips on how to survive a flood.

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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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 it comes to thuderstorms and your home, summertime is when the heat and humidity kicks in, which can lead to some 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 Manage a Leaky Roof

how to deal with a roof leak

If water is seeping through your roof, don’t panic. Take action and win the battle!  Here are some DIY tips on how to deal with a roof leak.

Telltale Signs of a Leaky Roof

Your roof is probably leaking if you have water stains going across the ceiling or down your walls.  They usually show up as brown spots.  Fix leaks right away to avoid an expensive repair bill down the road. Even small leaks can lead to big trouble. If you let them go, they can cause mold, damage your ceiling and destroy the insulation.

Finding Roof Leaks

When searching for a leak, look for items that penetrate the roof. Chimneys, plumbing and roof vents are the most common sources of leaks.  Sometimes water appears at a spot some distance away from the leak, making smaller leaks harder to find. Look for roof patches that are brittle or damaged by age. Also, examine metal roof flashing. Once you spot a problem, go into the attic with a flashlight and look for water stains, black marks or mold.

Preventing Roof Leaks

There are steps you can take to prevent leaks from occurring.  Water can seep into your home through cracked, bent and missing roof shingles. Replace missing shingles right away. A cracked shingle can be repaired with roof sealant.  Call a professional if you feel you don’t have the ability to make the repairs yourself.

Look for puddles on your roof after it rains.  Ponding can cause a roof to rot, which can lead to leaks and water damage.  Flat and low-sloped roofs are the most vulnerable.  Have the surface repaired as soon as possible.

Clear out your gutters regularly.  If they are clogged, they won’t be able to properly move water away from your roof and siding.  Gutter guards help prevent debris buildup so you won’t have to clean your gutters as often.

Inspect your attic ceiling for leaks.  If you notice damaged or moldy insulation; rotting or stained boards or ceiling panels, you may have a leak.

In areas that have a lot of snow and ice, ice dams can form.  Heat rises from your home and melts the snow on the roof.  The snow melt can refreeze on the colder edges of your roof and clog your gutters.  Check your attic to make sure it has enough insulation.  

How to Manage Roof Leaks

After you schedule a date for repairs to be made,  you can take a few temporary measures while you wait.

Minimize the damage to the inside of your home.  Move furniture and valuables to another spot. Cover the area with a waterproof plastic sheet or tarp. Place a large bucket beneath the leak to catch falling water.

Check the attic or crawlspace to try to pinpoint the source of the leak.  If you find it, create a barrier. Try laying a piece of plywood across the joists to stop the water from reaching the ceiling.  Place a large bucket on top..

You can also redirect the leaking water with a bottle funnel.  This homemade device features a hose, an empty plastic bottle, and duct tape. The water will flow through the tunnel and out of the house.

Has Water Damaged Your Home?

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://improveitmd.com/managing-roof-leaks/

https://modernize.com/homeowner-resources/roofing/best-ways-to-prevent-water-damage-on-your-roof

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/roof-repair-how-to-find-and-fix-roof-leaks/