Reasons Not To Overlook Your Crawlspace After a Flood

9/18/2018 (Permalink)

Severe flooding damage caused by storm in North Ogden, UT

It’s hard to miss the outward damage of a home flood. However, one place where damage often goes unnoticed is in the areas beneath your home. Designed to allow access to wiring and plumbing, the crawlspaces beneath your home are often the most susceptible to flood damage. Mold, mildew or even insect infestation can result from lingering water damage. When choosing a restoration company in North Ogden, UT, look for one that understands the importance of this often-overlooked area.

How Does a Crawlspace Get Damaged?

When house flooding occurs due to storm damage and rising waters, it’s understandable that low areas like crawlspaces would be impacted. However, there are several other ways besides a home flood these areas can fall prey to water damage. They include:

• Kitchen waste line leaks
• Sewer drain line leakage
• Improperly installed gutter downspouts
• Rising water table

Even water seepage from overwatered plants can get into a crawlspace and cause a host of problems.

What Are the Long-term Effects?
Like any area exposed to water, a crawlspace is susceptible to mold and mildew. If HVAC ducts run through a crawlspace dampened by house flooding, the result can be moldy air blowing through your home. Humidity from the moist areas left by a home flood can warp sub-floors, creating a cascade of damage and expense.

What’s the Solution?
Venturing into a moist crawlspace is often a bad idea. These areas require special cleaning apparatus and even masks for safe remediation. Instead, look to an experienced flood restoration company in North Ogden, UT, to clean up the damage and prevent further problems using tools like sump pumps, dehumidifiers and even special insulation.
Your crawlspaces may not be very visible, but they are important to your home’s structural integrity. Don’t let flood water or storm damage destroy them. Include your crawlspaces in your flood cleanup and rest assured your home is secure.