KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – FLOODING HINTS – BEFORE AND AFTER

KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – FLOODING HINTS – BEFORE AND AFTER

Here are some suggestions to perhaps lessen the next flood’s damage and help with cleanup courtesy of our ace Home Inspector Ryan Foley of Spyglass Inspections.

Before

Elevate all the equipment in the basement at least six inches off the floor including furnace water heaters washer and dryer. This will help in light flooding. Inspect sump pumps and drains regularly. A clogged drain by the basement door can flood a basement quickly. There are many other remedies for leaky basements some are quite costly. Most basement waterproofing companies will come out and do an evaluation for free. Your plumber can also suggest plumbing fixes such as a backflow valve that can prevent sewer backup. Keep a battery powered radio in case of a power outage.

After

Remove standing water as quickly as possible. Carpets padding and upholstery must be dried or removed within 48 hours to prevent mold. Throw out anything that cannot be properly dried. All surfaces touched by flood waters must be disinfected 8 ounces of bleach in a gallon of water. Good idea to wear a mask to help with the fumes. Discard any food that has come in contact with flood waters. If you have any electrical equipment that’s water damaged it’s a good idea to have it checked by an electrician to be safe.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO