Cleaning Out Your Closet… And Pantry… And Basement… And: What Can You Salvage After a Flood?

9/2/2021 (Permalink)

Content cleaning can be an exhausting process because it stresses you not only physically but emotionally.

A flood has hit you, and now the long process of content cleaning begins. While you will likely want to keep everything and salvage as many memories as possible, the unfortunate reality is that flooding causes black water, which is toxic for both humans and pets. This does not mean that everything must go, but it does mean that you may have to part with some things that hold significant intrinsic value.

1. Nonporous Materials Can Likely Be Saved

As nonporous materials are things that cannot be penetrated by the water, these types of items can typically be salvaged. Some examples of nonporous materials are solid plastics, ceramics, metal, and glass, meaning that most dishes and even jewelry can be saved; however, all will have to be extensively disinfected.

2. Porous Materials Likely Can’t Be Saved

Unfortunately, as porous materials can easily be penetrated, these types of items likely can’t be saved. Some examples of porous materials are paper, wood, carpeting, drywall, insulation, and laminate, meaning that any photographs, draperies, flooring, and drywall that have been exposed to water should be removed because no amount of content cleaning will eliminate all the contaminants.

3. Seek Assistance from Professionals

It is understandable to be overwhelmed in this process. Flooding is invasive and destructive by definition, and no amount of preparation can prepare you for the emotional turmoil of a damaged home. Fortunately, you don’t have to make the decisions of what’s salvageable and not on your own because there are likely several restoration specialists in Forsyth, GA, who have the expertise to make that decision for you.

Content cleaning can be an exhausting process because it stresses you not only physically but emotionally; however, if you can go at the cleanup process systematically dividing items between porous and nonporous materials, you may find the process a little easier.