Water

Any water damage can truly make a mess, such as if a flood that pours water into your basement, broken pipes spray water everywhere, or you have a sewage backup.  One big problem with such damage in a basement is that many people don’t regularly go into their basement, so the water or sewage can stay in the basement for days or weeks, resulting in even more damage than if the problem ]is noticed and addressed right away.  Thus, even without a triggering incident like a heavy storm in your area, be sure to check your basement every few days to make sure everything is still dry.

Once you notice a wet or flooded basement, act quickly to get rid of any water or sewage, and further check your floor and lower walls, since if they have been wet, the moisture can seep into the wood or cracks in the cement, which can trigger the beginning of dry rot.  Then, too, any spores of mold can take root and start growing, which can attract bacteria and very small creatures, such as insects which begin living in your house.  Should you store any food in your basement, the water or sewage can also contaminate your food, so you need to check your food supplies as well to see if they have gotten wet.

At times, homeowners think they can take care of any problem after experiencing flooding, broken pipes, or sewage backup themselves, by simply cleaning up the mess. But because there could be hidden damage that continues after the surface water or sewage is gone, it is important to bring in a professional, and not just a handyman, because special equipment is needed to find and completely remove any water or dampness, as well as disinfect any affected areas.

For example, if you live or have an office in the Grosse Ile, Michigan, Downriver Cleanup and Resotration Professionals is one company that offers a water damage service to fix any problems due to flooding, broken pipes, or a sewage backup.  Their website is www.downriverrestoration.com.