Severe summertime rains are making it hard to stay positive! As more rain is forecasted, in Minneapolis and Minnesota for the coming weeks, more homeowners are worried about their already flood damaged homes and basements.
When the rain has already soaked the ground, there really is nowhere for it to go, but up through the basements of homes. Of course if a wet basement goes unchecked, it can ruin floors, walls and create an environment for mold to grow and even damage roofing.
What You Should If Your Home Has Been Damaged In a Minnesota Flood?
- Safety First – Power lines are something to watch for after a storm. Should a tree fall on your home you need to call the power company and stay away from the line; never assume that a power line is dead.
- Notify your Insurance Company – As soon as you’re able to, call your insurance company and report all the damage that occurred. This helps your claim get processed faster and with more accuracy.
Flood Damage Frequently Asked Questions
Q) How do I get the moisture out of my home?
The best way is to use outside air to dry your home so open windows and doors. Help this by using exhaust fans to remove moist air from the house.
Q) Can I use a home dehumidifier?
Yes, run a dehumidifier in the dampest area and empty it often.
Q) What about moisture on the walls and ceilings?
- Cavities in walls and ceilings must be opened, cleaned, decontaminated, and thoroughly dried.
- Walls must be allowed to dry from the inside out.
- Remove moisture and debris from all surfaces and get surface materials dry within 24 to 48 hours.
- Release any water or mud that has been trapped in walls, ceilings, or floor cavities.
- Remove all interior wall finishing materials and insulation.
- Throw out any wet insulation.
- Most plaster, wallboard and paneling will have to be thrown away.
- If you think you may have materials containing asbestos in your home, call the Minnesota Department of Health at 651-201-4620.
- Wear an N95 Respirator mask to prevent inhaling contaminated dust, especially if you have allergies. Consult with your physician if you have questions.
Q) What should I do with wet carpeting?
- Pull up waterlogged carpet immediately, to prevent further floor damage.
- Carpet pads cannot be saved. They must be removed and thrown away.
- Attempt to save carpets or throw rugs only if they would be very expensive to replace.
- Clean and dry your floors thoroughly before re-carpeting.
Q) What about moisture on the floors?
- Cavities in floors must be opened, cleaned, decontaminated, and thoroughly dried.
- Remove any moisture or debris.
- Scrub floors and woodwork within 48 hours, using a stiff brush, water, detergent, and disinfectant.
- Allow all wood to dry thoroughly.
Q) How do I find a reliable flood damage remodeler or repair contractor?
This is a crucial part of dealing with the aftermath of a flood. You need to choose a remodeling contractor carefully, verifying their credentials, license(s) and insurance.
Sources:
http://www.extension.umn.edu/extreme-weather/flood/recover/housing/
http://www.extension.umn.edu/extreme-weather/flood/recover/
Experts in Minneapolis Flood Damage Repairs
You can trust Iron River Construction – 952-442-1762 to help you with storm and flood damage repairs in Minnesota. We have more than 20 years of experience and our professionals are completely licensed and insured; if you’re still unsure just check out our ratings with the Better Business Bureau or our homeowner testimonials.
