Floods brought by strong hurricanes, busted pipes, and overflow from rivers are destructive in many ways, as homeowners can attest. The type and severity of the damage will depend on the depth, duration and origin of the flood, of course, but it cannot be denied that the damage can cost millions, if not billions as in the case of Hurricane Katrina.
Here are the possible damages that floods can wreak on your home. Keep in mind, fortunately, that there may be repairs that can be done to salvage your home as well as its furnishings and furniture.
Breaks the Foundation and Frame
In areas where the soil consists mostly of clay, houses built on concrete slabs are most likely to have cracked foundations. The problem can be worsened with busted pipes, cracked exterior walls, and sagging roofs, as well as natural phenomenon like soil erosion due to flood.
The foundation has also been damaged when the doors and/or windows don’t open and close as before. This is because the frames have become distorted, or the glass has twisted, or the locks have been jammed.
And speaking of framing, the structural frame of the house can also become damaged. But there’s a bit of good news in case of solid wood lumber. The swelling may be temporary since the wood can return to its original shape and, thus, maintain its structural integrity.
Other damage to the house include weakened drywall, which must be replaced; soaked insulation made of foam or fiber, which should also require replacement; and compromised sheathing.
Damages the Appliances and Furniture
The appliances may have to be replaced since their electrical components have been damaged during their submersion in water. But you may be able to salvage dryers, washers and even microwave ovens but only upon the approval of a licensed electrician. Ovens, refrigerators, televisions, and computers are best replaced after exposure to water.
Upholstered furniture may or may not be salvageable depending on the duration of submersion in floodwaters, as well as the type of water in which these were submerged. You should call the ServPro professionals to determine which of the pieces of furniture and furnishings can be cleaned and, thus, reused. You must do so as soon as it’s safe to enter your home so that an initial assessment can be done.
Don’t despair in case your home becomes flooded. You will be pleasantly surprised that there are things that professionals can do that can salvage many, if not most, of your precious belongings, if not your entire home.
