o
Plaster and paneling can often be saved, but air must be circulated
in the wall cavities to dry the studs and sills.
o
The three kinds of insulation must be treated differently. Styrofoam
might only need to be hosed off. Fiberglass batts should be thrown
out if muddy but may be reused if dried thoroughly. Loose or blown-
in cellulose should be replaced since it holds water for a long time
and can lose its antifungal and fire retardant abilities.
Electrical system
-
The system must be shut off and repaired and inspected by an electrician
before it can be turned back on. Wiring must be completely dried out-
even behind walls. Switches, convenience outlets, light outlets, entrance
panel, and junction boxes that have been under water may be filled with
mud.
Heating and cooling systems and ducts
-
Will need inspection and cleaning. Flood-soaked insulation should be
replaced.
Appliances
-
Appliances will get stains, odors, silt
deposits, and gritty deposits and need to
be serviced, cleaned and sanitized.
Running equipment before it is properly
cleaned could seriously damage it and/or
shock you. Professional cleaning is
recommended for electronics, TVs and
radios, washing machines, dryers,
dishwashers, and vacuum cleaners. The hard exterior can be hand
cleaned. All metallic appliances that have been flooded should be properly
grounded to prevent electric shock. Mud or dirt in a grounded outlet or
adapter may prevent the grounding system from working, and you could
be electrocuted.
Pump out the basement
-
If your basement is
full or nearly full of water, pump out just 2 or 3
feet of water each day. If you drain the
basement too quickly, the pressure outside the
walls will be greater than the pressure inside the
walls. That may make the walls and floor crack
and collapse.