Home flooding is not something you would wish for yourself. However, statistics from flood factors show that about 84,559 properties in Chicago have over a 26% chance of experiencing severe flooding for the next 30 years.
From this data, we can say that Chicago has a moderate risk of flooding because about 14% of all the properties are at risk. That means there is a greater possibility of experiencing flooding.
Avoiding the thought of flooding or preparing for flooding will not prevent it from occurring. Instead, preparing for a flood will keep you composed and guided on the proper things to do if the situation arises. Your actions during and after a flooding incident will determine the damage your home sustains and the restoration.
Flooding in your basement is not an incident you should handle lightly. That is because it can cause havoc to the property, warns Mike Dunfee Property Management. A flooded basement can lead to:
- Mold and mildew
- Pest infestation
- Poor indoor air quality
- Foundation and structural damage such as sinking floors or cracks
What will you do if your basement experiences a flood this summer? Your response to basement flooding will depend on whether the basement is finished or unfinished. It will also depend on the source of the flood – sewage or seepage.
However, there are specific things you should do irrespective of the origin or nature of the flood. This article will explain everything you should do if your Chicago basement gets flooded this summer.
Six things to do in case of flood in your Chicago basement
Avoid entering the flooded basement
It is natural to think of rushing into the flooded basement to stop the leakage. Doing that will be very dangerous. That is because the water may get in contact with electrical sockets, appliances, or cables. When that happens, entering the flooded basement will result in electrocution.
Call an electrician and the gas company
An electrician has adequate training, experience, and tools to work on flooded basements. They will help you shut off the power supply to your home to prevent electrocution. Sometimes, the water gets high to the point that it will extinguish the pilot lights, and gas will pump into the property. In that case, you need to inform the gas company about the flood. They will turn off the gas supply to the property until flood restoration is complete.
Locate the source of the flood
After shutting off the gas and power supply, you can then locate the source of flooding. It would be best to turn off the water supply to your entire home if the flood is from a burst pipe. If the flood is from heavy rainfall, wait for the storm to pass before you clean up.
Sometimes the flooding may be from a faulty sump pump or clogged drain. If you cannot locate the source, it is advisable to call a reliable Chicago plumber. The plumber will help you find the origin and stop further flooding.
Rescue your valuables
Your ability to rescue your valuables will depend on the source of the flood. You may fail to salvage upholstered furniture and rug carpets if it is due to sewer backup. However, other appliances may be salvageable. When flooding is from water leaks or seepage, you can evacuate your items and dry them.
Clean up
How you clean up the flood will depend on the extent and nature of the flooding. If it is a minor flood, you may decide to clean it yourself. However, it is advisable to hire a professional restoration company for severe flooding or sewage flooding cleaning (irrespective of the extent).
The earlier you start the clean-up, the better for your property. Mold and mildew may grow 24 hours after the flood. It would be best to act fast and remove all wet rugs, books, boxes, or other moisture-retaining items.
If you hire a flood restoration company, they have the necessary tools and skills to remove all the flood from your basement and dry it. Laminate or hardwood floors in finished basements may not be salvageable. However, ceramic tiles or concrete will remain functional.
Use dehumidifiers and fans
Dehumidifiers and fans will help the basement dry faster after cleaning up the water. It is advisable to open all the basement windows to aid the drying. Alternatively, you may also decide to put on the heater or air conditioner.
The bottom line: What to do if your Chicago basement gets flooded this summer
Restoring your property after experiencing basement flooding is a tedious process. That is why it is better to prevent floods by waterproofing your basement. You should hire professionals to help keep your basement dry and maintain your property’s structural integrity.