3 Steps for Protecting Your Home After a Water Event

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

If a flood was caused by one or more pipes in your home, you should turn off your home's water.

Three Steps to Protect Your Home After a Flood

When flooding affects your Mahtomedi, MN, home, the immediate aftermath is often difficult to handle. However, since water damage can occur quickly to your home's building materials, furniture and electronics, knowing how to prevent or reduce it can lower the risk of loss of personal or costly items.

1. Turn Off the Water Source
If the flood source is one or more broken pipes in your home, you can slow the damage by turning off your home's water. Locating the valve ahead of time and knowing how to operate it can help you act even faster, but if you are unsure of its location, check with your local water company and ask for assistance in shutting off the water supply.

2. Keep Humidity Low
Water damage can cause several secondary problems, such as mold growth, because of the increased humidity standing water tends to cause. You can slow this process by opening windows in the affected area and operating ceiling and floor fans to improve air circulation. Turning off your HVAC unit can also keep humidity levels down and prevent mold spores from traveling into other areas of the home and taking root there.

3. Remove Items To Prevent Water Damage
If the water source is sanitary, such as from a sink or broken water line, you can likely enter it to remove important items to dry them out. Remain cautious about moving through the water and if the flood's source came from an overflowing toilet or broken sewer connection, wait for a water cleanup and flood mitigation service to assist you. Water that comes from unsanitary sources may carry harmful bacteria or corrosive chemicals that could harm your skin.
Flooding can have a serious effect on your Mahtomedi, MN, home, and your belongings. Acting quickly in the wake of a flood to reduce the damage can keep repair costs low and allow for a quicker turnaround time.