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Basements and crawlspaces sit at the lowest point of a home, so water from plumbing failures, heavy rain, sump pump failures and sewer backups collects there first. Because these spaces are below grade with limited airflow, moisture stays in concrete, block walls, framing, drywall and insulation longer than it does on upper floors.
The Restoration Doctor provides basement and crawlspace water damage cleanup in Clinton Township and throughout Macomb County, including water extraction, removal of wet carpet and insulation, structural drying, dehumidification, cleaning, sanitizing and repairs.
Finished basements, unfinished basements and crawlspaces each need a different drying approach. We take moisture readings in floors, walls and framing and continue drying until materials reach normal levels, not just until surfaces feel dry.
Call Now! (586) 522-4922
We locate the water source, check for electrical hazards, and determine whether the water is clean, gray or sewage.
Standing water is pumped and extracted from floors, carpet, and crawlspace soil or vapor barriers.
Wet carpet pad, insulation and drywall that cannot be dried are removed and documented.
Air movers and dehumidifiers dry concrete, framing and walls. Moisture is checked daily until dry.
Affected areas are cleaned and sanitized, then drywall, flooring and insulation are replaced as needed.
Below-grade spaces vary in construction, and the drying plan depends on the materials present and how the space is used.
We clean up and dry water damage in:
Crawlspace water often goes unnoticed until there is a musty odor, soft or sagging floors, or higher humidity in the rooms above.
Call Now! (586) 522-4922It depends on where the water came from. Standard homeowners policies usually cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as a burst pipe or failed water heater. Groundwater and surface flooding are typically excluded and require separate flood insurance. Sewer backups and sump pump overflows are usually covered only if you have a water backup endorsement. Review your policy or call your agent to confirm what applies.
Do not enter if water may be in contact with outlets, appliances, extension cords or the electrical panel. Have the power shut off by DTE Energy or an electrician first. If you smell gas, leave the home and call your gas utility. If the water came from a sewer or floor drain, wear boots and gloves and keep children and pets out of the area.
Most structural drying takes about 3 to 5 days after standing water is removed. Concrete floors, block walls and crawlspaces with poor airflow can take longer. Drying time also depends on how much water was present, how long it sat and the materials involved. Drying should be confirmed with moisture readings rather than by how the area looks or feels.
If the water was clean and drying starts quickly, carpet can often be dried in place, although the pad is usually replaced. Drywall that has only wicked a small amount of water may be dried. If sewage or contaminated water was involved, porous materials such as carpet, pad, drywall and insulation should be removed and discarded.
Mold can begin growing on damp materials within 24 to 48 hours. Basements and crawlspaces are higher-risk because they are cooler, more humid and have less airflow. Starting extraction and drying promptly is the most effective way to prevent mold growth.
Common signs include a musty odor in the home, higher indoor humidity, cupping or buckling hardwood floors, soft spots in the floor, condensation on ductwork, and increased insects or rodents. A visual and moisture inspection of the crawlspace is the only way to confirm the extent of the damage.
We proudly serve clients across numerous cities in Michigan. If you don’t see your city listed, give us a call, we may still be able to help!