Water Damage Cleanup Should Begin Quickly After a Flood

12/8/2022 (Permalink)

Flood water contains bacteria. It becomes more contaminated as time passes.

Why is "Time" Important During Water Damage Restoration?

When a structure has a water flooding event, the EPA says it is vital to begin the restoration process within 48 hours or less because wetness in an indoor environment can produce bacteria growth and cause secondary damage. Secondary damage is damage to contents caused by the elevated indoor humidity caused by flooding. Paper, leather, and other materials may be ruined by excessive moisture. High humidity can also cause problems such as potential mold growth. If the structure already had mold colonies before the recent flooding event, the elevated humidity often stimulates the existing mold to grow and spread its spores. Even if no mold colonies are present before the flooding event, there are already mold spores in the indoor air. These spores can settle on wet building materials and begin to grow. Many studies indicate that mold spores can start to grow in a damp, high-humidity (60% RH and above) as quickly as three to five days. That is why it is imperative to begin mitigation (stop and contain the damage) as soon as possible. Mitigation and restoration companies, such as SERVPRO of Yuma, believe it is best to begin extracting water and drying a wet structure whenever possible within hours of the flooding event. 

Standing water on a floor may be from a clean water source, such as a bathroom sink overflow, or the water may have come from a sewage backup referred to as blackwater. It is easier to extract and dry up "clean water" than to clean up and dry "blackwater." Don't worry; competent mitigation companies like ours will employ the proper techniques and equipment for each type of water damage regardless of the size and extent of the damage.

Please, do yourself a favor; if your property suffers a severe sewage backup, don't attempt to clean it up yourself. Sewage often contains bacteria and nasty chemicals.

Safety Tips For Victims of Water Damage:

- Wet floors are a slip hazard

- Wet structures may present an electrocution risk

- When a room is wet, check inside closets and opposite walls for additional wetness

- Remove books, papers, boxes, and clothing away from wet areas

- Don't attempt to clean up serious sewage spills

- Don't procrastinate in calling for professional help

SERVPRO of Yuma has solved hundreds of water damage problems at homes, businesses, schools, churches, hospitals, and other locations. We will be there 24/7 should you ever need our services. 928-247-1180