How Do Homeowners Cleanup a Flooded Entryway?

9/11/2020 (Permalink)

This Photo illustrates that SERVPRO has the team and the drying equipment to overcome flooding in the St. Petersburg Area

SERVPRO Cleans and Dries Flooded Areas in St. Petersburg

If you are a resident of St. Pete, you are no stranger to floods. Shore Acres and surrounding areas often experience flooding during a storm or sometimes even during high tide. The combination of saltwater and contaminated black floodwater poses a unique challenge to residents. Not only are you removing blackwater, but you are also dealing with the added detriment of salt.

What Steps Do I Take to Ensure Moisture is Not Under My Baseboards?

SERVPRO Technicians Remove Baseboards and Perform Flood Cuts

Even though flood damage in St. Petersburg is a fairly common occurrence, that does not mean that it is any less destructive to items at the floor level. Fortunately, baseboards are easy to remove and replace with minimal effort and finishing nails or staples. However, it is essential to consider that more than your baseboards may be wet. A small amount of moisture in your walls can cause a lot of damage if not dealt with right away. If technicians detect water in your drywall, they can perform flood cuts, typically at the 24 or 48-inch mark, to allow for easy replacement. Flood cuts allow technicians to dry the cavity and remove impacted insulation.

What Could Happen To Other Materials in My Home?

• Nails: Water alone can rust nails; however, the addition of salt water may cause corrosion.
• Insulation: Soaked insulation often needs replacing since moisture reduces its effectiveness. Excess moisture also may foster mold growth.
• Belongings resting on the floor could undergo damage such as warped surfaces or compromised vapor barriers if not relocated to a dry, safe place.

Each loss situation is unique. However, it is essential to take quick action after the floodwater recedes to mitigate long-term secondary damage. Since flooding often comes in from the street and into the front of the home.  You may also choose to explore long-term options to seal off your entryway.

For 24/7 assistance after a flood, contact SERVPRO of NE St. Petersburg at (727) 522-0000. We make it, "Like it never even happened."