Power is Out and Sump Pump is Failing

9/1/2020 (Permalink)

Oh no! The power went out and the rain is coming down hard. Your sump pump fails and water starts flooding through your basement and you begin to panic. The first thing we recommend is to get down there (we know you don't want to but it will help in the long run) and begin to move any contents you have on the ground either up to a higher elevation or into a different area of your home. This makes pumping out the water easier and allows for the drying process to be more smooth. Pro Tips and things to be aware of! Store things in plastic tubs rather than cardboard boxes! Plastic can at least withstand water while cardboard disintegrates. The next best thing to do is mentally prepare that some things will be ruined by the water and while heartbreaking removing wet contents is easier than needing a full mold mitigation completed. This process can take time. We do provide a sanitizer that is sprayed after all the water is removed in efforts to squash any mold growth that may have started. Depending on the level the water gets to there may be other factors to keep in mind. Pulling off baseboard is very common as well as cutting out wet drywall. Flooring is another big factor of these jobs. We recommend sealed tile for basements and here is why. If you put carpet the whole affected area of the carpet and pad will most likely be removed. Hardwood and Vinyl are just the same that they will be lifted and removed. Water usually does not penetrate sealed tile and can get sucked up and dried with ease! It is a win, win for all parties involved! Hopefully some of these tips were helpful involving what to expect if this happens to you.