How Can You Get Rid Of Stagnant Water In Your Home?
Water that is stagnant for long periods of time, such as for days, weeks or hours, is water that has remained at one location for too long. This is most common after a flood, but it can also happen if the water isn’t draining properly. This is also called standing water. It can cause water damage by soaking into your home. It can cause structural damage and health problems. We’ll show you how to get rid of stagnant water and make sure your family is safe during cleanup. We will also discuss the health hazards and dangers of stagnant water.
What Is Standing Water?
Water that settles in low areas inside or outside your home is known as stagnant water. Standing water outside will not absorb water that is absorbed by the ground. Although it is possible to let the water dry outside, this could take days or even weeks. It can lead to mold and other unpleasant odours, so get rid of it quickly.
Steps To Remove Stagnant Water
- Remove Stagnant Water : First, you must remove as much water as possible from the system. You should pump out any water that is greater than 2 inches in height. You can also use towels or a vacuum to remove the water.
- Removal of damaged material : Water can damage carpeting, drywall, and woodwork. To repair walls that are damaged, you should cut two inches beyond the waterline. The section that is damaged should be thrown away. You can also take personal items and furniture out of the space during this time. You can improve air circulation and dry your home faster by clearing out the space.
- Dry your Home : To dry your home, use fans or dehumidifiers. This will prevent mold growth and reduce structural damage caused by the flood. Although regular household fans are possible, they can take longer to work. Instead, use high-velocity fans and structural drying dehumidifiers. These will remove water quickly and prevent further damage. Many equipment rental companies can rent you the tools that you require.
- Repair the Damaged Source : Next, identify the problem and fix it. The problem must be fixed immediately. If the standing water isn’t addressed immediately, it can return to cause more damage. It may be necessary to dry out your home or repair the problem.
- Cleanse and disinfect the area : Mold and bacteria can still grow even after your home is dried. All surfaces should be cleaned with warm water and soap. Combine one cup bleach with a gallon of water and wipe everything down to disinfect.
- Rebuild and Restore : Finally, you need to repair the damage. How to rebuild will depend on the extent of damage. It usually involves replacing carpeting or drywall, repainting and installing new cabinets.
What Are The Dangers Of Stagnant Water?
No matter where it comes from, standing water can pose dangers. E. coli and Legionnaires Disease (NTM), are common stagnant water diseases. Even clean water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. These are the reasons you should not drink or cook with this water. To help with repairs, it is best to contact a professional like 911 Restoration of Iredell County.
These are the top hazards associated with stagnant waters:
Bacteria Waters that have been polluted by floodwaters or sewage can become contaminated. In standing water, bacteria can grow for up to 48 hours. Staining water is the best environment for bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli. But, you can grow any type of bacteria.
Mold – The longer that floors or walls remain wet, the greater the chance of mold. Mold removal can take several days. It can take up to 24 hours if there are traces of sewage.
Viruses Viral infections – Water can be stable enough to allow viruses to breed such as the Norwalk virus and rotaviruses. Insects and mosquitoes may also carry other viruses.
Parasites – Two of the most common parasites in standing water are Entamoeba (and Giardia). Although they can be found in clean water and sewage backup, they are more common after flooding or sewage backup.
Structural damage – Standing waters can cause structural problems within your home. Water damage can occur to walls, carpeting and padding. Water can also cause damage to hardwood floors and wood studs.
Insects and Rodents – Water can attract rodents. Zika fever and West Nile virus can all be transmitted to mosquitoes. Infections with bacteria and diseases can also occur in rodents such as rats, mice, rats and other small rodents. Although it is not always dangerous, standing water can sometimes smell like rotten egg. Standing water that contains sewage can smell even worse.
You Can Quickly Get Rid Of Standing Water
Do you have standing or stagnant water from a flood? Our water damage restoration specialists will quickly dry and repair your home. For a free inspection of water damage, call us at 704-519-2331.
