Understanding the Necessity of a Flood Cut After Flooding

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

Flood cut after a flood in your Clearfield, UT home, it is indispensable to avoid contaminated water.

A flood cut is a necessary tool for remediation experts in Clearfield, UT. After flooding recedes, the remediation crew will make a cut at least 12 inches above the flood line. While it is called a cut, it involves the removal of drywall, insulation, and any other materials below the designated line. There are many reasons companies use flood cuts.

4 Reasons Remediation Companies Make a Flood Cut After Flooding

A flood cut is meant to help eliminate further risks of contamination. Many homeowners struggle to understand the objective of a cut because all they see is materials being removed from their homes.

While it can be challenging to watch as crews remove drywall, insulation, and other items from your home, know that there are several reasons for the apparent madness. In fact, there are at least four reasons for making a flood cut.

1. To Reduce the Risk of Mold

Remediation companies will tear out materials above a flood line to reduce the risks of mold. While a flood line shows where the water level rose, it does not show how much of that water was soaked into the insulation.

Remediation experts assert that 12 inches above is the minimum necessary cut to reach dry materials. Therefore, by removing above the flood line, you take away potential moisture sources for mold spores.

Mold can develop within one to two days after flooding. By making a flood cut, remediation crews cut down the risks of development.

2. To Dry the Area Thoroughly

A flood cut is also used to help dry an area after a flood. There is no other way to access a wall cavity than by removing sections of drywall and insulation. With the cavity exposed, remediation crews can use fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers to help dry the space thoroughly and quickly.

The speed a space is dried can also reduce the risks of other problems, like mold and structural issues. The longer water is allowed to stand, the more damage it can do to the integrity of your home.

3. To Inspect for Structural Damage

While flood cuts are necessary for avoiding extensive damages, they can also be used for inspecting the structure after a flood. By opening the walls, a restoration company can tell how much damage actually occurred. Water damage can lead to wood rot and foundational issues, making structural assessments crucial after a flood.

4. To Make Any Necessary Repairs

Floods can lead to electrical and plumbing issues. In many instances, the only way to get to the affected systems is by opening up the walls. Remediation experts will do their best to limit the amount they open walls, but again, 12 inches above the flood line is standard practice.

While flooding is a nightmare for most homeowners, it is not impossible to recover from the damage. With the right crews performing tried and tested techniques, you can have your home restored in no time. However, remember that the amount of work needed will depend on the length of time the floodwaters remained and how deep they were.