DON’T LET A WET BASEMENT RUIN YOUR HOME
Basement Drying | Avoid Mold at all Cost
Basement drying is a critical step to keep a basement free from mold growth and materials deterioration after flood damage. Sewer’s backup, sump pumps fail, plumbing leaks and even a laundry tub overflow can overwhelm a basement with unwanted water. All such scenarios will lead to numerous destructive outcomes if basement drying does not occur.
Is your basement suffering from moisture, or have you been battling elevated dampness? If so, have you experienced a recent sump pump failure that has introduced some ground water on carpets and hard surface flooring? Often in Michigan this is the #1 reason basement drying is needed. Even once basement water extraction is initiated, there may need to be basement drying service to prevent musty odors and the advancement of mold.
The experts at Action Extraction flood restoration of Macomb would like to delve into some essential steps that are effective at basement drying. Whether you’re dealing with recent flooding or a chronic moisture issue, basement drying may be all you need to reclaim an odor free environment once again.
How to Succeed at Basement Drying
Before investing in the energy to acquire an enviable dry basement, it is helpful to recognize why basement drying is essential. Elevated moisture in a basement will affect all cellulose materials such as drywall, wood substrates, decorative moldings and even carpets. If these materials persist for days with unusually high moisture content, mold thrives in such conditions. Basement drying is simple creating an environment that is not conducive for mold growth, by bringing humidity levels under control.
First Steps to Achieve a Dry Basement.
Locate the Source of Moisture
All basement flooding and humidity problems are directly related to a source that you need to discover. Identifying sources of water intrusion, such as leaks, cracks, compromised drainage and drain backups are essential. There are clues that will aid such as water puddling, wet carpet, water stains on walls and smells. Water stains on ceilings can indicate water from above, stains on walls suggest outside of foundation and carpets can indicate a drain issue. When wet furniture exists, it should be temporarily removed and even discarded if there are signs of contamination.
Sometimes locating the source for elevated moisture in a basement can be challenging, so here is a short checklist that may help. Be sure to inspect the following:
- Walls
- Windows
- Floor cracks
- Pipes or hoses connected to appliances
- Floor drain
- Toilets
- Sinks
- Bathtubs
- Showers
Correcting the Problem
If a drain is backing up, you may need it snaked out or even placed on an annual maintenance to keep functioning correctly. Sump pumps discovered that sometimes fail to engage when the float lifts, need to be changed out with a new one. Any wall cracks or foundation issues need to be sealed so leaks no longer continue. Basement drying is well within reach when repairs are made that initiated the problem.
Clean the Surrounding Area
Basement drying needs to be married to cleaning and sanitizing of all affected surfaces. There could be lingering microbes, and related microorganisms needing to be eliminated., Using a cleaning agent that has a label that states it kills 99.9% of germs should be preferred over other alternatives.
Water Extraction
Anytime you notice standing water on hard surface flooring or in carpets, water extraction service is recommended. In extreme cases such as a sump pump failure that floods a basement, you may benefit from a professional restoration company as they have commercial extraction systems. Assuming the amount is manageable with a shop vac and towels, be sure to remove as much as you can.
Drying Out the Basement with Drying Equipment
Pay special attention to porous materials that will need drying service such as drywall, insulation, decorative moldings, wood substrates and carpets. These materials are prone to retaining moisture and musty smells after water damage. If any such materials are discernably wet, they will need air movement placed on them at the very least. Where multiple materials are languishing with moisture it is recommended to also place a dehumidifier to accelerate drying for safe results.
Air movers along with a placed dehumidifier should be sufficient to dry out these structures thoroughly. Consider removing and replacing any damaged materials to prevent mold growth and structural compromise.
Basement Drying | The Indispensable Step for Safe Restoration
It cannot be overstated that drying out a wet basement is the most important step in assuring your property stays free of mold, mildew and other related microorganisms that can affect human health. Merely allowing it to dry out on its own by opening a window or turning on a room fan may prove dangerous. Moist and humid environments are a conducive environment for mold and basement drying is the only proven method for eliminating its proliferation.
If necessary, you may want to rent several industrial fans along with a dehumidifier from a local rental company or hardware store. Commercial grade structural drying equipment is far more effective than small room fans as rapid air movement produces the needed energy to transform water into vapor.
Protecting Basements from Future Moisture
Preventing future moisture conditions in your basement is a basic maintenance commitment that can spare you future headaches. Once your basement is dry, take practical measures to prevent future moisture problems. Seal any known cracks, holes, and gaps in the foundation, install a new sump pump every 7 years to manage groundwater, and maintain proper grading so water naturally is channeled away from property. Making sure gutters and downspouts are functioning efficiently as well will keep your basement free of water-related concerns.
Professional Assistance to Dry Wet Basements
In some cases, you may want to consider a professional flood restoration company like Action Extraction of Macomb. We provide a free inspection of flood damaged property and have the equipment to manage everything from front to finish. When there are large areas of wet flooring or multiple rooms with wet materials, reducing humidity levels at an accelerated rate is essential. Professionals can determine if water damaged carpet can be restored, if drywall is safe to dry or should be removed and can also help with insurance claims.
While a DIY approach to basement drying is feasible for minor moisture issues, the more severe flooding that comes from failed sump pumps and sewer backups, makes professional service a must. Don’t let mold assault a finished basement with moisture levels at an abnormal high. We at Action Extraction specialize in managing basement drying and provide a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee on all our services.
As Macomb, Sterling Heights and all Southeast Michigan’s leader in basement drying, we can safely restore your property with great expertise. Our recognized protocol for structural drying will ensure once again a fully restored, dry and safe basement for you and your family.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let a damp, moist or wet basement assault your property with mold, mildew and related germ causing microbes. With the right approach, instruction and resources, basement drying is within your reach. By following the steps summarized in this article and addressing elevated moisture issues promptly, you can transform your basement into a dry and comfortable space. Basements can add beauty to your valued home, without the hassle of moisture and humidity levels bringing discomfort.
We hope this guide will help you say hello to a healthier, happier basement. For further detailed assistance feel free to call us today!
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