There's Water Everywhere! Now What?
There’s an old saying that “When it rains, it definitely pours."
These days, the rains seem to be stronger and harder than before. The rivers run higher, and the snow is deeper. Worst of all, it happens when you least expect it, too.
It’s comforting to know we have a home that's a trusted refuge to keep us safe and dry. But what happens when the sanctuary meant to keep us from the wind, heat, rain and cold becomes flooded and damaged?
For a business, flooding can mean lost profits and very unhappy customers, clients, or patients.
So when flooding happens, repairs and remediation need to happen – FAST.
Because the bottom line is that whether it’s a home or a commercial establishment, flooding is an ill best kept out the door.
What happens when you have a flood?
When a flood comes seeping in through your door or through the roof or basement walls, one thing’s for sure – there’s a whole lot of destruction.
Damages to your property can go right down to foundation. And the economic losses - destroyed appliances, water damaged drywall, and ruined clothing are just the beginning of a flood aftermath.
The Harmful Hidden Effects of Flooding and Water Damage
The “hidden damage” – things that show up after the water is gone - can be far more expensive – and lethal.
Mold has been proven to harm our health and according to the American CDC mold can cause nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, coughing or wheezing, eye irritation, or, in some cases, skin irritation. People with mold allergies may have more severe reactions. Immune-compromised people and people with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may get serious infections in their lungs when they are exposed to mold.
This is because the worst thing about flooding is that the water doesn’t just seek its own level. It seeps through the tiniest fissures of your house or business. Small cracks, gaps and spaces you didn’t even know were there.
And this is where things get ugly. Sometimes you can't see all the places the water went. And when undetected floodwater dries up, it often carries the harmful bacteria and allows mold to grow undetected.
Flooding can cause structural damage to your house or business. Electrical wiring, softened walls, or perhaps even shattered glass can be caused by flooding.
As a result, accidents in your home or business such as electrocution or trauma may occur. Therefore, it is imperative to address your flood problems as soon as possible by calling in the experts at ComPro to assess the damage.
What To Do In The Immediate Aftermath Of Water Intrusion or Flooding
- 1The first thing you should do is inform your insurance company that a flood has occurred and ask them what you need to do to initiate a claim. The insurance company will give you specific instructions regarding information they require to ensure your claim is processed quickly. This may include taking photographs to record the damage and calling ComPro to come in and assess the damage. Realize that flood damage must be dealt with immediately to minimize health hazards and safety threats.
- 2Always proceed with caution. Because depending on how long the water is present, corrosion, erosion, or weakening may occur. This means keeping an eye out for holes, gaps, and cracks around the house cause by the water. Attempting any inspection or temporary remediation process without care can lead to serious accidents.
- 3Clean and disinfect all the areas where the water has been. This includes floors, furniture, walls, and any places potentially exposed to water. Even the smallest amount of water missed is enough to breed mold that is detrimental to your health. It is therefore essential that the work be performed by the professional cleaners at ComPro. We're experienced in flood remediation.
- 4If safe to do so, thoroughly inspect and use your camera phone to document all the damages after the event. Besides health hazards, flooding can also destroy material objects, especially if too much time elapses before the item is allowed to dry. The weakening of walls, damaged electrical wiring, and cracked floors are aggravated by continued exposure to water.
- 5Hire the professionals at ComPro. Since 1991, ComPro has served Southern Alberta with flood repair & remediation and has a proven track record of fast, efficient repairs and happy clients – both residential and commercial.
Time Is NOT On Your Side
Floods happen. Take action to stop the flooding and water damage.
And when they do, immediate action is required. Because flooding is more than just economic damage to your home or business - it is an imminent threat to something far more valuable – YOUR HEALTH.
Flooding also poses a risk to your safety and security.
When water damages your property, time is of the essence. And because not one second should be spared in remedying your problem, your best action, right now, is to call ComPro. We have technicians on call – 24/7/365 to deal with your flooding emergency IMMEDIATELY. Our professionally trained staff and fully equipped vehicles are prepared to tackle your flooding nightmare right now. Call us today for an immediate service.