Property owners across North Carolina request basement repair services for a variety of reasons. Indoor flooding frequently poses a problem. A large hot water tank may crack and spill gallons of water. Perhaps a broken washing machine overflows. Or a severe storm may allow runoff from a water-soaked, poorly draining yard to seep indoors.
Do you know how to respond to these types of misfortunes? Effective basement repair requires seven key steps. Prudent commercial real estate owners consider all of these issues before rebuilding. It usually proves helpful to obtain professional assistance. Some businesses hire both water damage restoration cleaners and basement repair waterproofing specialists.
An Overview of Cleanup And Basement Repair
In most cases, comprehensive basement repair only occurs after some basic preparations. A property owner typically need to perform a number of important tasks first:
1. Determining The Source of Flooding
It proves vitally important to ascertain the source of the flooding (to the extent possible). Typically, runoff from rain or nearby waterways contains more contaminants than indoor floods involving tap water. Expect an overflowing creek to carry more mud into the basement than a broken dishwasher or a burst water pipe.
2. Taking Personal Safety Precautions
Never re-enter a flooded building until authorities authorize your return. Cut off gas to the site. Also, shut down electricity to rooms impacted by flooding. Always wear protective gear while performing cleanup. Experts recommend wearing rubber boots.
3. Evaluating The Condition of The Basement
Avoid wading into flooded areas whenever possible. Exercise caution walking on steps in flooded basements, for instance. Sometimes water may cause steps or other man-made structures to collapse.
4. Extracting Water
Professional water damage cleaning firms offer assistance extrating high volumes of water from basements. Flooded carpeting often contains a significant quantity of liquid. Water extraction must occur in order to perform effective cleaning and disinfection. Also, specialized water extraction equipment expedites this process. These machines prove more effective than conventional carpet cleaners or shop vacs.
5. Thoroughly Cleaning And Disinfecting Impacted Surfaces
Today, most experts recommend thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces in contact with flood water. This process may involve removing sections of drywall, insulation, molding, and flooring. Additionally, bleach cleaning solutions help disinfect carpeting and some furniture surfaces that contacted flood water. Also, take furniture outdoors to perform cleaning. Different materials will require the use of specific cleaning agents.
6. Drying The Premises
Specialized restoration cleaners offer assistance to customers in drying flooded locations, too. Portable fans and dehumidifying equipment may prove helpful. In some sites, high humidity requires an extended drying period before rebuilding can commence safely. Avoid rushing to remodel before you achieve a completely dry site.
7. Obtaining Essential Basement Repair Services
Finally, rely upon the services of licensed contractors to assess basement and foundation damage. Basement repair sometimes requires excavations. In other cases, it may involve other measures, e.g. resealing windows or installing backup sump pumps. A knowledgeable contractor offers valuable assistance determining the extent of damage and the available repair options. Furthermore, implementing waterproofing measures often helps alleviate (or even prevent) some types of recurring flooding.
The Importance of Written Plans
Typically, today both water restoration cleaners and basement repair waterproofing contractors recommend preparing detailed written plans. This documentation assists clients by recording every measure taken to refurbish the premises. Keep a copy of these guidelines to show to your insurance adjuster. Additionally, business insurance policies sometimes offer assistance paying for restoration cleanup and basement repair services.
It usually proves helpful to photograph flooded business premises extensively before commencing a cleanup. Taking this step may assist an insurer in documenting the occurrence of an indoor flood. A contractor evaluating the need for basement repair services will likely also seek to photograph damaged sites. Keep copies of the photos to show to lenders, if applicable.
Request Expert Basement Repair Services
Raleigh Waterproofing, Inc. offers a full spectrum of basement repair and waterproofing services in NC. Our company specializes in commercial and new construction waterproofing. Also, we serve residential and commercial customers across the Greater Triangle Area.
Contact us if you own real estate in Durham, Chapel Hill, or Raleigh. We offer fast assistance restoring your premises after flooding. Contact us at 919-877-9969. Lastly, we look forward to providing knowledgeable basement repair and waterproofing services.