Here’s Why A Flooded Basement Is So Dangerous For You And Your Family

There are many reasons why a basement can get flooded. This can be due to water pipes breaking or because there was a recent flood in the area. No matter the reason or cause of the flooding, there is one thing that’s clear: basement water extraction, district of Columbia experts should be contacted to remove the water and dry out the basement.

Homeowners who are hesitant thinking that the basement is out of sight and it will eventually dry itself off should think again. Here are a few compelling reasons why it’s worth it to clean and dry a flooded basement right away:

Reason #1: Electrical Issues

Although most basements are used for just storage, there is a good chance that there are a few outlets and active electrical wires present. If these sources of electricity are exposed to water, the entire basement can become hazardous for everyone.

The smallest amount of water can and will conduct electricity if the basement is not completely dried, electrical issues and even electrocution becomes the entire family’s problem.

Reason #2: A Potential Gas Leak

Water can easily extinguish the pilot light for the water heater and furnace which are usually located in the basement. If the pilot light is extinguished, the gas will continue to flow. The levels of the toxic gas, carbon monoxide will increase within the home putting the entire family at risk.

Reason #3: Presence Of Raw Sewage

If the flood was caused by nature, there is a good chance that floodwaters and raw sewage have mixed. Even if the water has already evaporated, contaminants from the sewage have already settled in the basement making it unsanitary. It is best to have the basement water extraction, District of Columbia experts dry, clean, and sanitize the basement for everyone’s health and well-being.

Reason #4: Mold And Mildew Growth

Mold and mildew thrive in dark and damp places. A flooded basement makes the perfect setting for them to grow, multiply, and flourish. When left unchecked, the mold and mildew will continue to spread and creep up the home until the infestation becomes too big to control using DIY methods.

The best way to avoid a mold and mildew infestation is to dry out the basement after a flood so their spores do not have time to settle in the area.

Reason #5: Possible Structural Damage

In cases where the water in the basement is left unaddressed for some time, the water will eventually seep into the concrete foundation and cause a long list of problems. Once the foundation of the house is compromised, everything from the basement walls, ceiling, and floors of the entire home will show signs of cracking.

Eventually, the damage will continue to spread and the entire house will start bowing making it unsafe for the family to live under its roof.

The longer a basement is left flooded, the more problems and the bigger the repair cost will become. Contact your local basement water removal company to being the process of drying the basement at once.

Got water in your basement? Contact The Water Damage Team today and let us take care of basement water extraction, district of Columbia for you. We are your local water damage experts