Flooding can occur at any time of the year in many states across the nation. Here in Texas, we’ve seen some of Mother Nature’s worst in the form of Tropical Storm Bill, which has dumped inches of rain and hail across the state
and larger Midwestern region.
When heavy rains hit, flooding can take homeowners by surprise, especially those living in areas that don’t normally see rising waters. As we’ve seen this past month, it is essential to stay informed about what steps to take in case of a flood event, both in terms of your personal safety and preserving the value of your property.
As Texas communities recover from this latest storm, HouseLogic.com, a website that provides free housing information and tools, hopes to help families protect their homes throughout this hurricane season. To prepare and protect properties in the aftermath of a flood, HouseLogic.com has provided some tips.
The first 24 hours following a flood are essential to the preservation of property. It is critical that you begin airing out your home as soon as possible to minimize the formation of mold and rot.
You will need to open doors and windows to encourage air flow, which will help
to dry things out naturally. Also, remember to open closet and cabinet doors to dry these spaces. To expedite the process, consider using fans. These usually cost around $50 to $500, depending on the size and power, or roughly $20 per day to rent. HouseLogic.com strongly discourages using your home’s central air conditioning system if the HVAC ducts were under water.
To remove residual humidity, a dehumidifier can help with harmful mold-causing vapors. Get rid of any standing water quickly with a sump pump or wet/dry shop vac. Remember, the longer water is left standing in an area, the more likely it is that mold will begin to grow.
Finally, be wise in your decisions to keep rugs, carpets and furniture that have been damaged. Some items will be beyond saving and could begin harboring unattractive and unsanitary mold.