Is Your Property Ready for Heavy Rains?
In Denver this week we’re looking at at least the 4 of next 5 days filled with the possibility of severe thunderstorms and showers possibly leading to flooding.
Those of us that have lived here long know that even when we don’t get a higher than normal monsoon season amount of rain, in a matter of a single afternoon, the West can seem pretty wet for a what we consider to be a dry climate. That can mean serious trouble for homes with clogged gutters and downspouts, leaky basements, aging sump pumps and other moisture-related problems.
As the summer continues, take time to look around your property and ensure that features designed to handle water/flooding and protect structures are in proper working condition. Try to clean out rain gutters and downspouts regularly, and make sure to add extensions that carry gutter water at least 6 feet away from foundations.
If you’ve experienced moisture problems in your basement in the past, consider installing a French drain to allow water to run out to the alley or street. After flooding, feel basement carpeting and padding around the perimeter for moisture. If you detect moisture, consider calling Professional Restoration for a free moisture test. We often recommend that damp materials be treated with antimicrobials.
Make sure that you service sump pumps. Use a scratch pad to clean sump pump floats and make sure they don’t stick.
Moisture problems from flooding can result in potentially health-threatening mold. If you suspect that you have a mold problem, Professional Restoration can run tests to find out, then eradicate it, fix the cause and make sure it doesn’t return.
In the event of more significant flooding, make sure to consider these safety tips:
- Pack an emergency go-bag with important items (don’t forget medications) in case you have to evacuate.
- Know the difference between a flooding warning and a flooding watch. A watch means flooding is possible. A warning means flooding is occurring or will occur soon.
- If told to evacuate your home, do so immediately.
- Turn off utilities to your property if flooding is imminent.
- Don’t walk through moving water. It is stronger than you realize.
- Don’t drive on flooded roads. You can’t tell if they are washed out.
- Don’t operate or touch electrical appliances or equipment when wet or while standing in water.
- Check community reports and resources to find out whether the water supply is safe.
- Avoid flood water, which can be electrically charged from downed power lines and often is contaminated with toxic and biological material.
- Return to your property only after authorities declare it safe.
When your home or business is threatened by water call Professional Restoration day or night, 365 days per year to get help fast. Or follow the above tips to both avoid and minimize water damage to your property.
