Why a Flood Cut Is Worth It After a Storm

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

When a storm hits flooding is many homeowners’ biggest fear. However, while contamination from standing water is a serious danger, water damage and contaminates left after the flooding recedes can not only cause health concerns but issues with your home’s insulation. A flood cut, or removal of the drywall from the floor to 12 inches above the flood line in a room affected by flooding, can ensure that your walls dry completely and don’t harbor mold or other health hazards. Additionally, a tear out of the drywall can reveal further water damage that must be repaired.

Not all cases require a flood cut. When the flooding only involves clean water, as from a broken pipe, and if there is no insulation in the wall, a flood cut may not be necessary. Flood cuts are typically used in the following situations:

• If flooding is due to a storm or sewage backup and the flood water may be contaminated

• If wet insulation is detected

• If microbial growth of any kind is detected

Flood Cuts Keep You and Your Family Healthy

When flood water is contaminated, it can foster the growth of mold and other bacteria harmful to your health. Because flood waters can seep through drywall, health hazards can be hidden in the walls even if the room looks dry and clean on the surface. A flood cut ensures that walls are thoroughly dried and free from growth, keeping you and your family safe.

Flood Cuts Reveal Hidden Damage

While not all walls are insulated, flooded homes with insulation need flood cuts to reveal water damage behind the drywall. Drywall tear out can reveal whether insulation has been damaged by the flood. Because insulation cannot be properly dried after a flood and maintain its R-value, any wet insulation must be replaced.

When your home floods, professional water restoration experts can ensure that you and your family stay healthy and your home stays insulated.