Flood Damage

Flooding in Minnesota typically occurs in the spring when rising water from rivers and lakes overflows their natural boundaries and flows across the ground picking up all kinds of contamination. This water is no longer the same river and lake water that we fish and swim in; it’s now contaminated with soil bacteria, decaying insects, animal droppings, oils and fluids from roadways, plus fertilizers and pesticides from fields or gardens.

Flood waters saturating into a home affect the building in three ways

1. Water causes direct damage to materials, disintegrating drywall, swelling, warping, or rotting wood, shorting out electrical parts and causing fires or electrical shocks.
2. Mud, silt, and unknown contaminants in the water cover everything with a thick, dirty slim that is hard to remove and possess a health threat. Floodwater is not rainwater; it’s a lot more damaging.
3. Dampness and warmth promote the growth of moisture-related mold, mildew, and fungus which leads to dry rot and major structural damage.

We recommend that you follow these tips to clean up after a flood

When the rain stops and water subsides, flood victims should call Water Damage Minneapolis™ immediately, to reduce property damage and limit health risks.

Before we arrive, use caution when entering buildings. Make sure electrical power is off and the structure is sound before entering and inspecting a flooded building. Small animals or vermin may also seek shelter inside a structure, so be cautious when repositioning contents or removing materials.

Wear an organic vapor respirator to protect yourself. They are available from hardware or building supply stores, along with rubber gloves, eye protection and protective clothing. Ventilate affected areas by opening windows, and eventually, by placing a fan in a window. Work toward the fan as you clean to minimize cross contamination.