Can Storm-Related Flood Damage in Forest Hills Cause Structural Problems in Spaces Other Than the Lowest Levels?

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

The observant experts at SERVPRO of Forest Hills / Ridgewood know where to look for all aspects of storm-based flooding in your home.

Flood Damage in Forest Hills Is Not Confined to the Basement -- Consult with the Professionals at SERVPRO to Make Sure You Account for All Structural Hazards

Flooding conjures up cellars, garden level apartments, and basements knee-high in contaminated water in Forest Hills. These circumstances certainly can challenge after torrential rains and overland flooding. If your home escapes a sodden lower level after heavy rains and winds, do not assume the chance for harm passed over you. Checking other spaces in your home is critical, and if you notice anything amiss, get a professional consultation.

What Signs of Upper-Level Flood Damage Should I Look For?
If your house or apartment sustained any exterior damage, you are probably already alert for flood damage in Forest Hills. Homes may suffer:

    •    Broken windows and doors
    •    Damaged brickwork or siding
    •    Ripped off shingles, flashing, and other roof materials

Can I Be Certain There Is No Flood Damage if I Do Not Observe Any Water Inside?
Just because you see little or no water on surfaces is no assurance that the rain did not intrude. Water can flood into your home and collect unseen in building cavities. Indications of trapped storm flood water include:

    •    New staining on walls or ceilings
    •    Bulging on walls or sagging on ceilings
    •    A sheen on surfaces that looks like ‘sweating”
    •    Unpleasant musty odors or “wet wood” smells
    •    Warping of floors near walls

What Can Be Done if I Have “Flooding” Inside My Building Structures?
Our SERVPRO project manager does a visual inspection and assigns a trained technician to complete moisture detection and metering using infrared imaging and sensitive probes and devices. If we locate trapped water, we consider controlled demolition strategies to release water for removal. Tactics include punching “weep holes,” particularly in ceilings. We also cut or drill holes near the base off walls, and sometimes make “flood cuts” several inches above floor level from stud to stud. These openings also make drying technology more efficient.

The observant experts at SERVPRO of Forest Hills / Ridgewood know where to look for all aspects of storm-based flooding in your home. Call us at (718) 381-3702 for an assessment and peace of mind, even if you hope you weathered the storm.