Water Damage Repair and Restoration

 1. PUT SAFETY FIRST

If your basement is flooded, before you enter it, make sure to put safety first. A flooded basement has the ability to pose an electrical hazard to you and your family members, so if possible, turn off the circuit breakers to your basement, or contact an electrician to help you assess whether it’s safe to enter the basement for water removal or not. Any electronics, including a furnace, boiler, and/or hot water heater that are in contact with floodwater are unsafe! If you smell gas, or your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, immediately call 9-1-1 or Mid American Energy

2. Throughout the entire process, including the removal of water, and afterward, document the process of the flooding and damage through photos so that you are able to submit them to your insurance company Maxx Restoration can assist you with your documentation as needed. Learn more about the Insurance Claims. 

3. Once it is safe to enter the area, you will want to remove important items, such as upholstered furniture, or items in boxes that are standing in water and bring them to a dry area.

Be careful!!  If water has been standing for too long, it can soon become dangerous to enter as mold and bacteria may begin to grow and the water removal process may require additional assistance by professionals.

 4. Once you have cleared any important items, it is time to start the water removal process also known as water extraction. Sometimes this is a small task, however sometimes it can be quite overwhelming, say for example your basement is flooded, and you have a sump pump, then it has obviously failed or the flooding is too much for it to handle. A pump won’t remove all the water from your basement, so a vacuum unit may be necessary to get the most extraction. Then use a mop and towels to clean up the rest.

If you have high levels of water, we recommend calling the Des Moines Fire Department at  (515) 283-4237  for public assistance. 

It is important that you remove water as quickly as possible, as a damp environment gives mold the chance to grow, which could compound property damage costs.

KEEP IN MIND... If you are running a generator due to a power outage, it is important to ensure that the generators run outside only. 

5.  Once you have removed the water, your home will not dry on its own. To assist in the drying process, use fans or industrial blowers, as well as dehumidifiers and dry mops to help remove any excess water and minimize the chance of mold. 

6.  Use soap and warm water to thoroughly clean all walls that came in contact with water. Along with your dehumidifier and blowers, HEPA air purifiers help filter out mold spores and allergens.

You should check this area every day, and keep an eye out for mold. If you see a suspicious-looking spot, clean the area with bleach and warm water. you will want to call in a professional like Maxx Restoration as they are trained in cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing this type of damage. 

• BEFORE THE STORM.. If you have a sump pump, the days ahead of a weather event that is forecast to bring substantial amounts of rain is the perfect time to ensure that it is plugged in and working properly. 
• Check Your Gutters.. Before each season you should check your gutters, and if necessary they should be cleaned and well maintenance. If you are unable to do this Maxx Restoration Professional Maintenance Service would be a great resource for this. 
• Check all low areas such as egress window wells, voids or landscape gaps near your foundation etc. 
• Unnoticed cracks in the basement walls or floor.
• Look for poor drainage around the foundation.
• Leaking pipes or plumbing fixtures.
• Be aware of severe weather events, such as heavy rainfall or snowmelt that can overwhelm your foundation.
• Inadequate waterproofing measures, if not properly installed these will fail to keep water out of your home and especially your basement.

 Water pipes are an essential part of any home's plumbing system, and keeping them in good condition is vital to avoid costly repairs and potential water damage. 

• The water flow to your home will usually remain the same, so if you are experiencing lower water pressure, that may be a good indicator that water is leaking out elsewhere before reaching your faucet.
• Remain attentive to signs of leaks such as low water pressure, to prevent small leaks from turning into larger problems.
•  In colder climates, insulating your water pipes can help prevent them from freezing and bursting during winter months. Use pipe insulation sleeves or heat tape to protect exposed pipes in unheated areas. Maintain a consistent temperature: Keep your home's temperature consistent, especially during cold weather, to prevent pipes from freezing. 
• Opening cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around pipes can also help. Drip faucets: When temperatures drop below freezing, allow faucets to drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent them from freezing. Seal any cracks or holes: Inspect your pipes regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks or holes, and repair them promptly to prevent leaks and potential pipe bursts. 
• Disconnect hoses: Before winter sets in, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses to prevent water from freezing and causing damage to the connected pipes. By following these preventive measures, you can help protect your water pipes and ensure a well-functioning plumbing system in your home.

The best way to prevent attic water damage is to regularly inspect your attic for any signs of leaks or water intrusion. Check for water stains on the ceiling or walls, mold growth, or musty odors, as these can indicate potential issues. Make sure your roof is properly maintained and free of any damage or missing shingles that could allow water to seep in. Additionally, ensure that your attic is well ventilated to prevent condensation buildup, which can lead to water damage. Taking these proactive measures can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your attic in good condition for years to come.

Proper maintenance of your attic is crucial for the overall health and longevity of your home. It is essential to regularly inspect your attic for any signs of leaks or water intrusion. Check for water stains on the ceiling or walls, mold growth, or musty odors, as these can indicate potential issues that need to be addressed promptly.

One of the key areas to focus on is the roof. Make sure your roof is properly maintained and free of any damage or missing shingles that could allow water to seep into your attic. By addressing any roof issues promptly, you can prevent water damage inside your home.

In addition to roof maintenance, ensure that your attic is well ventilated. Proper ventilation helps prevent condensation buildup, which can lead to water damage and mold growth. By allowing for adequate airflow in your attic, you can help maintain a healthy environment and prevent potential issues down the line.

By taking these proactive measures and staying vigilant about the condition of your attic, you can avoid costly repairs and keep this important space in your home in good condition for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained attic not only protects your home but also contributes to its overall value and comfort.