What To Do When You Discover Floating Flooring in Your Basement

10/22/2024 (Permalink)

No need to jump ship - Call SERVPRO!

Hearing strange noises from your basement is enough to make anyone uneasy. But when you investigate and discover your child’s soft flooring pieces floating, it’s clear that water damage has occurred. A flooded basement is more than an inconvenience, it can lead to significant damage if not addressed quickly.

At SERVPRO®, we specialize in handling water damage emergencies and restoring homes to their pre-damaged condition. Here’s what you should know if you encounter floating flooring in your basement.

Why Is There Water in My Basement?

Water in your basement can come from several sources, including:

• Heavy Rainfall: Excessive rain can seep through foundation cracks or cause groundwater to rise, flooding your basement.
• Plumbing Leaks: A broken pipe or malfunctioning appliance can quickly release large amounts of water into your basement.
• Foundation Issues: Cracks in the foundation or poorly sealed windows can allow water to trickle in overtime, eventually leading to significant flooding.
• Sump Pump Failure: When your sump pump stops working or is overwhelmed, it can no longer remove excess water, leading to flooding.

If your child’s soft flooring pieces are floating, you likely have more than a few inches of water. Taking quick action is critical to minimize damage.

Steps to Take Immediately

1. Ensure Safety First: Before you do anything, make sure it’s safe to enter the basement. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If you suspect any electrical components have come into contact with water, avoid the area and shut off the power to the basement if possible.
2. Stop the Source of Water: If the water is coming from a burst pipe or a leaking appliance, shut off the water supply immediately. The quicker you stop the flow, the less damage you'll have to deal with.
3. Remove Valuables: If it’s safe, remove any valuable or irreplaceable items from the flooded area. Water damage can ruin furniture, electronics, and personal belongings, so act fast.
4. Call SERVPRO for Professional Help: The most important step is to contact a professional water damage restoration service like SERVPRO. With our 24/7 emergency response, we can quickly arrive to assess the situation, stop further damage, and start the restoration process.

How SERVPRO Handles Basement Flooding

At SERVPRO, we use advanced techniques and equipment to handle basement flooding quickly and efficiently. Here’s how we help:

1. Water Extraction: Our team uses powerful pumps and vacuums to remove standing water from your basement, including the water causing your child’s soft flooring to float.
2. Drying and Dehumidification: After the water is removed, we focus on drying out the area. Using industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers, we thoroughly dry the basement, reducing the risk of mold growth and structural damage.
3. Cleaning and Sanitizing: Floodwater can introduce contaminants, especially if it came from a storm or sewage backup. We clean and sanitize all affected surfaces to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
4. Restoration: Once the basement is dry and clean, we begin restoring it. This may include replacing damaged flooring, drywall, and insulation, ensuring your basement is returned to its pre-flood condition.

Preventing Future Flooding

Once your basement has been restored, you’ll want to take steps to prevent future flooding. Here are a few tips:

• Check your foundation for cracks and seal them to prevent water from seeping in.
• Maintain your sump pump to ensure it’s in working order.
• Install a basement waterproofing system to keep water out.
• Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear and direct water away from your home’s foundation.

Trust SERVPRO to Restore Your Basement

A flooded basement can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. SERVPRO is here to assist you through every step, from water extraction to full restoration. Our experienced technicians are equipped to handle any water emergency and restore your home quickly and efficiently.

Don’t wait to address water damage—call SERVPRO today and let us bring your home back to normal.