Unforeseen water in your basement can cause mass deterioration to walls, floors, carpets, and furniture. Not to mention irreparable damages to irreplaceable valuables you may feel are being kept safe there. No one wants their photos and memorabilia lost to time due to an unexpected occurrence. If you’ve experienced flooding or seen signs of water damage, Mission Restorations can help.
Evidence of Water Damage
Though not always obvious or visible, if you suspect your basement is suffering from water damage, it’s imperative that you contact a licensed professional. A qualified professional will confirm it by first inspecting the property for any perceived issues and then following up with the appropriate plan of action necessary. Here are a few signs to help you make the decision to call:
Noticeable Cracking in the Floor or Foundation
Take note that this can occur both inside and outside of the home. Pay close attention to visible cracks in window panes and door panels. The most common reason cracking can occur is due to excessive moisture, primarily from the climate. Additionally, inadequate drainage can also play a large role.
Strong Musty, Damp Odor
If your nostrils are assaulted by a pungent, musty odor, there’s a good chance it’s mold or mildew. Generally, this will indicate that you may in fact have a moisture or water damage problem.
Surface Discoloration
Water damage can cause paint to peel or wallpaper to appear discolored. It may also warp walls, causing them to break or crumble which is the result of prolonged seepage. The flooring can appear swollen or may have been removed from the subfloor.
Visible Mold Growth
Often times you may only be able to detect mold using your sense of smell. Though, on the occasions you do spot it, it will appear in a dark green or black hue. Mold growth occurs on organic materials like wood, natural fibers, paper, and leathers, as well as furniture and walls.
If the water damage is improperly dealt with within 48 Hours of occurrence, mold growth can start and spread very quickly. These damages are not often covered under insurance because they’re considered secondary damage from improper water damage remediation.
Sources of Water Damage
There could be a multitude of reasons behind the water damage in your basement affecting your foundation. Environmental causes such as stormy weather and natural disasters that produce moisture, ground erosion, and flooding. The issues can also stem from a list of manufactured sources such as plumbing issues (leaky pipes, overflowing sinks/toilets) or appliance malfunctions (laundry washer, dishwashers, water heaters).
Prevention: What to Look For
Firstly, you will have to make sure that the incident is not set to recur post-cleanup. Locating the source of the flooding in order to prevent this issue popping up again should be a top priority. After all, a home is only as strong as its foundation.
Surface Water
If you have determined the source of entry is coming from one location such as the exterior foundation wall, this may indicate surface water. Surface water can occur when gutters overflow due to blockage from leaves or debris. There may also be an issue where your downspout is overburdened and you’ll need to purchase a second to relieve it. You can also opt to replace your current downspout with a larger one.
Another potential source of surface water could be the slopes of the pavement or landscape. If your pavement has settled overtime, it may need to be removed and replaced. The direction of water flow can change and flow back into your home leading to unwarranted water damages.
The land around your home should slope away from your property. If this is not the case, a civil engineer may be required to inspect, identify, and determine the appropriate solution.
Additionally, any and all sealant surrounding your home that appears cracked, should be removed and replaced. These cracks can happen over time due to age or poor installation.
Subsurface Ground Water
If not surface water, then most likely subsurface water is to blame. Hydrostatic pressure has the ability to push the water through small cracks into your basement. This particular job is of the more expensive variety and will likely need the expertise of an experienced contractor.
What to Do
We highly recommend hiring a professional to restore a water damaged basement. Water and mold damage goes beyond what can be seen by an untrained eye. Make sure your consultant has the appropriate hydrometers, infrared cameras, and certifications to identify the damages.
Who to Hire
Who to call is determined by the amount of flooding and the areas in which the basement or foundation has experienced the water damage. If the damage is minimal, you will likely need a water damage restoration company to provide clean up and help preserve the salvageable contents. Should the damage be extensive, you will also require the assistance of a water mitigation contractor in order to rebuild the structure or foundation of your home.
If you happen to have flood insurance it would be best to contact your insurance provider. Mission Restorations will work with any insurance company to provide you with the best service possible. Allow us to put your thoughts at ease and choose a contractor company you can trust. Call today at 704-727-2000 and put those worries to rest.
