The Many Kinds of Nature-Based Flooding
Two primary types of flooding threaten properties: nature-based flooding and plumbing-based flooding. Today, ServiceMaster of Colorado Springs will discuss scenarios of nature-based flooding. We will also offer safety tips on how to respond wisely and effectively.
Unfortunately, rain, snow, ice, and hail all present formidable threats when it comes to flooding. Excess, stagnant water poses a significant to the overall stability and durability of infrastructure and equipment. That’s why it is essential to take proactive steps to mitigate the damages and consequences of flooding events beforehand.
Pro Tips on Reducing Decay, Mold, & Injury After Flooding
How To Prepare for & Respond to Heavy Rains
Torrential storms and downpours are frequent causes of flooding. If left untreated, the water damage can cause your property to decay rapidly – leading to warp, rot, and deterioration. Excess moisture trapped indoors can also spread mold and mildew, which can cause severe respiratory issues and disease.
We realize that some rain-based floods are so catastrophic that there is nothing a homeowner can do to prevent damage.
That said, here are some steps you can take to help defend your property against such occasions:
- Remove debris (leaves, dirt clumps, pinecones, etc.) from gutters to prevent blockages
- Direct your gutters and downspouts away from your home
- Install splash blocks at your downspout’s outlets
- Improve runoff channels by creating rock rivers or trenches
- Install underground pipes to direct water away from the home’s foundation
- Invest in flood insurance
How To Prepare for & Respond to Heavy Snowfall
In Colorado, we get a lot of snow. Snowfall can cause many disasters. Roofs can collapse, ice dams can form, and snowmelt can lead to flooding.
To prepare for snow-based damages, we recommend:
- Bolstering roofing, trees, branches, fences, and any vulnerable infrastructure impacted by snowfall
- Storing a heavy snow shovel and ice melt products
- Insulating water lines to avoid frozen pipes
- Installing thermal-pane windows and weatherproofing doors
- Cleaning gutters to prevent ice dams
- Insulating your attic floor to keep the home warmer and the roof an even temperature
How To Prepare for & Respond to Heavy Hail
Unlike snow, which tends to be soft, hail consists of hard ice balls. Another unique property of hail is that it can form during thunderstorms on warm summer days.
Here are some tips to safeguard your property against significant hail damage:
- Close windows, blinds, and curtains to prevent injury if any glass shatters
- Spread a tarp over vulnerable sections on your roof
- Move fragile furniture beneath covered areas
- Park cars in the garage or under a carport
- Place blankets or cardboard over windows to minimize damage
How To Handle Flood Damage the Right Way
Floods can wreak havoc on a property and create an emergency. Every minute water remains in your home accelerates the damage and the likelihood of mold growth. It is easy to panic and normal to feel uncertain about how to respond effectively. Fortunately, ServiceMaster of Colorado Springs is just a phone call away. We are available 24/7 in the event of an inconvenient emergency. Just give us a call, and we’ll rush to the rescue!
At the same time, there are some pivotal steps you can take before our team arrives to increase your safety and mitigate damage. These tips will help you reclaim your property quickly after flooding.
Beware of the Risks of Electrocution
When flooding occurs, safety comes first. Preventing injury, trips, slips, falls, and possible electrocution should be prioritized before property concerns. First and foremost, it is wise to turn your electricity off as quickly as possible in the wake of a flood event – regardless of whether there is power or not. Flipping off your circuit breaker can be a lifesaver should an electrical outage suddenly end, sending electricity into your flooded home.
Avoid Traversing or Wading in Flooded Waters at All Costs
Always do everything you can to avoid entering flooded waters. Doing so will severely increase your risk of electrocution, drowning, hard falls, or stepping on sharp debris. If necessary, navigate flooded spaces with extreme caution. It is also wise to invest in thick rubber boots and gloves. Such gear will add protection when forced to enter standing water.
The other issue with entering floodwater is that it often contains bacteria, trash, pollutants, sewage, human/animal waste, and other chemical contaminants. Exposure can lead to disease and illness. Once again, having base-level personal protective equipment (PPE), including a mask to cover your skin, eyes, nose, and mouth, can be a game-changer in such situations.
Find a Safe Space & Contact a Professional Restoration Company
Flooding disasters can create a monumental and dangerous task. Don’t settle for amateurs or DIY tactics. Hire the best! ServiceMaster of Colorado Springs is proud to be your one-stop solution for flood restoration. We can assist with documenting damages, remediating damages, expediting the cleanup process, and salvaging your beloved property. Our team is trained, certified, and licensed to get the job done right. We rely on cutting-edge equipment and years of experience to remove floodwater, prevent microbial/mold growth, dry out water-damaged goods, dispose of waste, and restore salvageable goods.
Contact ServiceMaster of Colorado Springs online or give us a call at (719) 356-3189 for industry-best flood remediation, rebuild, and repair services today!
