Obstacles of Restoring Flood Damage in Valencia Crawlspaces

7/14/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO today if you need help with professional storm damage restoration.

Flood Damage Is Challenging to Remove in This Area

Flooding can be a rapidly developing disaster for area homes, and for those in Santa Clarita Valley with crawlspaces, it can be challenging to clean and restore. We provide fast and experienced mitigative and restorative responses to emergencies, even with the obstacles of crawlspace flood recovery.

Confined Space Challenges

The greatest obstacle to flood damage in Valencia crawlspaces is the confined area. Some entrances to this area beneath the house are not broad enough to bring in equipment. Other physical barriers may lack sufficient spacing between the flooring and the main floor joists to place taller units like dehumidifiers. Careful planning is necessary when approaching crawlspace flooding.

Drying More Than the Dirt

Many of the available drying options we utilize can take longer to address the most pressing issues if the flooring of the crawlspace is dirt/mud. In some situations, installing polyethylene sheeting over the dirt is beneficial to create a vapor barrier against this moist surface and allow equipment to target the structure. Steps include:

• Blocking off vents to the crawlspace in many cases
• Creating a system to enable equipment to fit in the space
• Once space exists, place air movers and dehumidifiers

The Advantage of Encapsulation

Encapsulating is another measure that can be taken after a crawlspace is dried and restored. This process prevents further moisture penetration and flood damage by installing plastic sheeting to coat all exposed surfaces along with mold inhibiting products. Permanent dehumidification devices might also be suggested. 

Crawlspaces are not an installation every home in the area has, but when flooding infiltrates those that do, it can be challenging to clean and restore. Our SERVPRO of Santa Clarita Valley professionals have unique and focused approaches to get flood damage dried quickly to protect your property. Call now at (661) 296-4600.