Storm Damage Water Removal
A Guide to Flood Recovery and Water Damage
Storm season brings more than just heavy rain—it brings the risk of flash floods and significant property damage. Whether you are in the heart of Metro Atlanta, navigating the coastlines of North and South Carolina, or living in the mountainous regions of Tennessee and Alabama, being prepared for disaster recovery is essential.
When the clouds clear, the real work begins. Here is what you need to know to protect your home and your health.
The Silent Threat: Mold and Power Outages
One of the most critical factors in disaster recovery is time. In the humid climates of the Southeast, mold doesn’t wait.
Warning: If your power is out, mold can begin to colonize in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Without HVAC systems to circulate air and dehumidify the space, stagnant moisture creates a “greenhouse effect” that is perfect for fungal growth.
What TO Do If Flooding Occurs
- Safety First: If the water has reached electrical outlets, do not enter the room. Turn off the power at the main breaker if it is safe to reach.
- Document Everything: Take photos and videos of the standing water and damaged items for insurance purposes before you start cleaning.
- Remove Standing Water: Use a wet/dry vac or pumps to remove as much water as possible once the area is safe to enter.
- Ventilate: Open windows and doors (if the humidity outside is lower than inside) and use battery-operated fans to keep air moving while the power is out.
- Lift Furniture: Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent “wicking,” where water travels up the wood or upholstery.
What NOT To Do
- Don’t Use Household Vacuums: Never use a standard vacuum cleaner to soak up water; you risk electrical shock and ruining the machine.
- Don’t Ignore “Clean” Water: Even if the water looks clear, it can quickly become contaminated. Treat all floodwater as potentially hazardous.
- Don’t Leave Wet Carpets: If a carpet is soaked with category 3 water (sewage or storm runoff), it usually cannot be saved and must be removed to prevent mold from settling in the subfloor.
- Don’t Wait for the Insurance Adjuster: You have a responsibility to “mitigate damage.” Don’t wait for an adjuster to arrive before you start drying out the property.
Professional Disaster Recovery
Recovering from a storm is an overwhelming task. At Square Soft Restoration, we provide expert disaster recovery and water mitigation services across:
- Metro Atlanta
- North Carolina & South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Alabama
We specialize in rapid response to stop mold in its tracks and restore your property to its pre-loss condition.
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