Heavy rains can sometimes lead to flooding in a crawl space, and this water can cause significant damage if left alone. While flooding in the crawl space may not seem as concerning as flooding in a basement, it's important to take immediate action to prevent potentially hazardous conditions. Here are some steps you can take to recover after your crawl space has flooded.
Pump Out Standing Water
Standing water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects, and it can also lead to mold and mildew growth under your home. You'll want to pump out the standing water before you begin any other repairs. You can purchase a sump pump kit from your local hardware store, which can be used to remove the water and help prevent flooding in the future. If you aren't sure how to install the sump pump, you can hire a contractor to take on this task for you.
Inspect The Beams
Exposure to standing water can compromise the integrity of any wooden beams in your crawl space. Before you enter the area to perform repairs, it's a good idea to have a professional inspect the damage. Your contractor can provide a detailed list of the damage along with any associated costs. You can then use this estimate to determine which repair work you want to do on your own and which tasks you want a professional to tackle for you. For example, you may be willing to replace a single beam, but a series of damaged beams might be too much work to take on as a DIY project.
Dry Out The Area
Once the crawl space has been inspected and you've confirmed it's safe to be inside, you'll want to dry out the wood, flooring, and other surfaces. This can be a bit more difficult in a crawl space than in other areas of the home, as you won't typically be able to open a series of windows for ventilation. An industrial fan can help remove excess water, and you can also use a dehumidifier for removing excess moisture from the air. If you find that puddles keep forming, or if you see puddles begin to form again after you've dried out the area, you may have a leak in the foundation or nearby pipes that will need to be addressed.
Mold Remediation
Once your crawl space is dried out and all water has been removed, you'll want to look for signs of mold growth. Mold growing in the crawl space can quickly spread, and it can become a health hazard for your family. You can hire a mold remediation expert to inspect and test the area for mold growth. If you find that mold is growing, you will need to sanitize the area or remove affected materials in the crawl space. Your mold remediation company can help with this repair project.
Speak with local crawl space experts for more information.