How to Clean a Flooded Basement: A Comprehensive Guide

As a homeowner, one of the most troublesome and unexpected events your home can experience is a flooded basement. Flooded basements can occur due to a flood, leaks in the home’s foundation, burst pipes, and even a broken water heater. Cleaning a flooded basement can be a stressful task, but we’re here to help.

weDRY Restoration is here to extend a comprehensive guide on how to clean a flooded basement. Being stuck in a flooded basement without the proper knowledge and tools for this type of disaster could make an already bad situation worse. By following this helpful guide, you’ll be better prepared to quickly return your basement back to its original condition. 

What to Do Right Away When You Spot Water in Your Basement

If you’ve noticed water in your basement, the first thing you’ll need to do is spot-check how much water there is. In instances where water is more than a couple of inches, you’ll need help from weDRY for professional flooded basement restoration. Then, if you have flood insurance, contact your insurance provider to start your claim. 

If flooding is minimal, make sure to follow the steps below. It’s important to remember that water can contain harmful bacteria, so steps that prioritize safety should be taken seriously. 

1) Turn Off the Power for Safety

Before entering your basement, you’ll need to turn off the power. In terms of your safety, this is of the utmost importance. If you aren’t able to reach the circuit breaker of your home, don’t put your health at risk and contact a professional electrician instead. 

2) Protect Yourself With Safety Equipment 

Due to the unpredictable nature of the contents of the water, you’ll need to wear an assortment of safety equipment. Make sure to wear an N95 or N100 face mask for potential mold growth and other safety equipment like rubber or plastic gloves, waterproof boots, and other protective clothing. These items should be worn no matter the source of the flood. 

3) Begin Drying Out the Basement 

Next, you’ll need to dry out the basement. Mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours, so prompt response is essential. Use a bucket to remove excess water from the basement and then make use of wet/dry vacuums, dehumidifiers, and large fans for an effective drying process.

4) Remove Wet Furniture and Materials

After excess water has been removed from the basement, it’s time to remove wet materials. From wet furniture, carpeting, drywall, and insulation, these items and materials need to be removed from the area. Water-soaked items and materials as such are especially prone to mold growth. 

Other considerations would be electrical wiring and outlets affected by the flooding water. Due to the safety risks of these items, it’s best to leave it up to the professionals. 

5) Clean and Sanitize Affected Surfaces 

Once the affected areas are dry and wet items have been removed from the basement, it’s time for cleaning and sanitization. Remove any dirt and remnants by wiping the walls and floor with water and detergent. If you notice mold or want to be sure growth won’t be an issue, choose weDRY Restoration for mold removal and remediation. 

6) Implement Waterproofing Measures 

Going forward, there are waterproofing measures you can implement to protect your house from flooding. If your home doesn’t already have them, consider investing in a sump pump and perimeter drainage system. Flood vents are also worth looking into. These waterproofing measures can put your home in a much better position to deal with and prevent a flooded basement and all of its related issues. 

Tools and Materials You Need to Clean a Flooded Basement

Basement flood cleanup by yourself requires an assortment of tools and materials to get the job done right. Here is what you’ll need in the event of a flooded basement: 

• Wet/Dry Vacuum
• Buckets
• Squeegee 
• Gloves 
• Mop and Mop Bucket 
• Fans 

Reasons Your Basement Might Be Flooded

The reason behind a flooded basement isn’t a one-case-fits-all situation—it can happen due to a variety of causes. Potential causes of a flooded basement include:

• Burst pipes
• Faulty sump pump
• Heavy rain
• Poor drainage capabilities 
• Appliance leaks
• Foundation damages 

Should You Handle It Yourself or Hire an Expert?

When you realize your basement is flooded, you’ll likely feel a range of emotions and thoughts. One such thought is whether you should deal with it by yourself or resort to local experts. Frankly, there are only a few situations where doing it by yourself is recommended compared to a multitude of reasons why you should choose the professional route. 

Here is why you should hire an expert like those at weDRY Restoration: 

• Hidden damages you may not notice.
• Potential health risks.
• Professionals have access to the necessary tools and equipment. 
• Experts come prepared with knowledge of what solutions are going to return your basement to its original condition. 

Contact weDRY Restoration for Professional Water Damage and Restoration Cleanups

When it comes to reliable water damage solutions in Southeast Michigan, trust weDRY Restoration. From a flooded basement to mold damage restoration, the experts at weDRY Restoration are ready to provide your home with solutions you can depend on—we’ll even help with your insurance claim. Contact us today for assistance with flooded basement cleanup—we’re available 24/7.

Flooded Basement FAQ

How Can I Tell if My Insurance Covers Flood Damage?

Commonly, homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flood damage. Most of the time, homeowner’s insurance covers plumbing-related problems, but only if the issue and maintenance aren’t neglected. 

What’s the Best Way to Remove Moisture from a Flooded Basement?

To effectively remove the moisture from your flooded basement, start by opening windows if you have them. Then, use wet-dry vacuums, sump pumps, dehumidifiers, and large fans. 

What Is a Sump Pump and How Does It Help?

A sump pump is a piece of equipment responsible for pumping out excess water from inside the basement and away from the home. 

Can a Flooded Basement Lead to Mold Growth?

Yes. The growth of mold starts with oxygen and excess levels of moisture. This makes a situation like a flooded basement the perfect opportunity for mold to grow. 

Is It Safe to Enter a Basement That’s Been Flooded?

Entering a flooded basement is only safe when the electricity has been turned off and the amount of standing water is relatively low. Protective gear and clothing should be worn no matter what. 

How Long Will It Take to Clean and Restore a Flooded Basement?

The time it takes to clean and restore a flooded basement depends on several factors such as the extent of damages and the affected areas.