Flood damage is not always the result of turbulent weather. Sometimes, a water pipe in your walls or beneath your flooring can bust and cause localized or whole-home chaos. When you discover the problem, it’s essential to act fast to minimize the damage. This guide will teach you what to do if you ever find yourself in this unfortunate situation.

Stop the Water

Whether you can visibly see water pouring out of a busted pipe or just hear it rushing under your home, immediately go to your main shutoff valve to turn off the water. If it’s close to electrical outlets or appliances, shut off the electricity to prevent a bigger problem. Then, turn on one or more faucets around your home to relieve any remaining pressure in the pipes.

Once the water is fully off, call a plumber. If flood damage is extensive or you suspect the pipe was leaking long before you noticed it, also call a water damage restoration service. They will be necessary for determining if the water has caused structural damage and possibly mold growth and will help you to fully dry out your home. 

Start Drying the House

After any flood damage, the biggest threat to your household is mold and mildew growth. Try to minimize the moisture in the home by opening doors and windows. When it’s safe to turn your electricity on, turn on all fans and the HVAC system to help circulate the air.

Start mopping up puddles of water as best as you can. If using towels, take them outside to dry instead of adding to the moisture inside the home. Also, begin relocating any wet furniture outside.

When the restoration service arrives, they will use wet vacuums and pumps to effectively absorb any remaining water. They’ll also use dehumidifiers to return the humidity back to a safe level and prevent mold problems from developing. 

If your home experiences flood damage, contact the restoration experts at DryMaxx Ohio for fast action. This IICRC®-certified team has over 25 years of knowledge and experience cleaning up and restoring residential and commercial property damage across Dayton, OH. They’ll also work with your insurance company to make the claims process easier. Call them today at (937) 470-3053 to schedule a free inspection, and visit their website to learn more about their services.