The thing about a flooded basement is that it can happen to almost anybody - with or without warning, finished or unfinished basements. It can come in a flash or after a few days of continuous downpour. A flooded basement is a total wreck so make you sure you take all the necessary precautions needed before you proceed to cleanup - pumping, cleaning and drying. Take a look at these easy tips.



What to remember before entering a flooded basement

1. Turn of the main switch. Make sure that all electricity sources have been switched off.

2. Check your walls for evidence of structural damage, cave-ins and other hazards.

3. Make sure that you turn off your fuel service valves.

4. Keep doors and windows open. You may also use blowers to allow fresh air to enter into the basement.

What is the proper way to pump a flooded basement?

1. Avoid using electric pumps. To ensure safety, use gas-powered pumps instead or ones which are connected to an outside line. You can seek help from fire departments in your community.

2. Do not pump your flooded basement too soon. This can cause more damage as walls can be pushed in or floors can be pushed up. You can reduce this damage by removing at least one third of water each day. If outside water level begins to rise after pumping, start a new water line. Rushing the pumping can also cause the soil to drain very slowly.

How do I proceed to cleaning my flooded basement?

1. After pumping out water from your flooded basement, it's time to get rid with basement mud and debris while it is still moist. Simply use a hose to remove the silt before it dries. Sanitize your walls especially if sewage entered the basement. Scrub floors and walls using a disinfecting liquid.

2. A flooded basement is also vulnerable to oil stains as a cause by damaged oil tanks. Neutralize fuel oil by using commercial products readily available in the market for your convenience.

How do I dry out my flooded basement?

1. Pick one or two portable pumps. Pumps can push more water through its bigger fitting. Make sure that you buy enough drain hose to keep the water away from the foundation of your hose.

2. Use big puddles to puddle out the remaining flood water after pumping. Push the standing water into the sump hole using a shop broom or a large floor squeegee.

3. If you have a wet or dry shop vacuum, empty out the canister before removing the standing water to avoid dealing with a gunky mess.

4. After completely removing standing water off the floor, it's time to use your dehumidifier. Allow it to run 24/7 to dry out completely saturated concrete. Check the unit if it has a drain fitting on the bucket attached to a hose. If it has, drain the hose into the pump hole.

5. Finally, always bear in mind to take all the necessary precautions. Cleaning up a flooded basement can be very risky. Water, when mixed with electricity, can be very dangerous.

Keep these tips in mind and it's time to say goodbye to basement floods!