How flood damage affects homes

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO® of Central & West Plano describes how homes are affected by flood damage.

Floods can cause extensive damage to homes in the blink of an eye. It is the most common natural disaster in the US and may need restoration and repair, which costs a significant amount. FEMA cautions that just an inch of water can result in flood damage that costs $25,000 to a home.

A flood is defined as an overflow of water over land that is usually dry. In the US, flooding is usually due to prolonged rainfall, heavy rains in a short span of time, and ice or debris clogging a water body, causing it to overflow onto the land nearby. Dams can develop problems that cause flooding. Buildings can be flooded by overburdened or clogged sewage systems, burst pipes, or dam failures.

Flood damage includes different types of harm due to flooding, including effects on individuals, buildings, and property or belongings. Flood water is considered to be contaminated, meaning the clean-up after a flood is important but risky. Professional flood restoration services will ensure that flood damage is handled with the speed and care it demands. SERVPRO of Central & West Plano is a fire and water cleanup and restoration. They are among the 2,100 franchises of the trusted leader in the restoration industry. It has 25 years of experience in the field, which is a testimony to the high quality of its services. SERVPRO of Central & West Plano provides commercial and residential flood restoration services in Hebron, TX, and the surrounding areas. In this article, the company lists the effects of flood damage, which make flood restoration services so essential.

What are the effects of flood damage?

1. Health risks

Flood water can contain pathogens and chemical contaminants, affecting the health of persons who come into contact with it. If left standing for 24 to 48 hours, mold growth can be secondary to flood damage. Mold and its spores can affect the air quality.

2. Structural damage

Water can affect the integrity of floors, walls, ceilings, furniture, furnishing, etc. Flooding can also damage foundations which can have serious consequences. Water removal is essential, and specialized equipment makes it easier. SERVPRO of Central & West Plano follows a multi-step process, including water removal.

3. Damage to the electrical system

Flooding may cause electrical hazards that can lead to a fire, if not noticed and carelessly handled. Getting a professional to evaluate the electrical system and appliances for safety is essential before anything is switched on and operated.

4. Mold

If floodwater is not removed and dried meticulously, mold can grow easily. Mold thrives in moist areas and can lead to persistent unpleasant smells. Professional flood restoration services like SERVPRO of Central & West Plano use industrial-grade equipment to dry flooded homes and minimize the risk of mold growth.

5. Damage to belongings and contents of a home

Flooding can damage personal belongings like documents, clothing, electronics, etc. Some of these may have to be replaced.

What to do when affected by flood damage?

After flooding, the main priority is to ensure safety. If necessary, the place may have to be evacuated according to instructions from authorities. Homeowners must take precautions to be safe from electrical hazards. Since flood water may be contaminated, anyone coming into contact with flood water must adopt protective measures.

Professional restoration services offer the safest and fastest way of handling flood damage. SERVPRO of Central & West Plano offers 24-hour emergency flood restoration services in Hebron, TX, and nearby areas. As this is a locally owned and operated business, their teams are faster to any size disaster. For flood restoration services by an experienced, trained, and expert team of personnel, call SERVPRO of Central & West Plano at (945) 348-5804.