What to Do When You Wake Up to a Flooded Home

Waking up in the middle of the night to the sound of rushing water or stepping onto a soaked carpet is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Whether it’s a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or a flooded basement after heavy rain, water damage can escalate quickly if not handled properly. The good news is that taking immediate action can help minimize the damage, save thousands of dollars in repairs, and protect your home from long-term issues like mold growth and structural weakening.

Step One: Stop the Water Source

The first and most important step is to shut off the water supply. If you can see where the water is coming from, locate the nearest shut-off valve and turn it off immediately. If the flooding is severe and you cannot identify the source, turning off the main water supply to your home is the best course of action. Every homeowner should know where this valve is located to prevent further damage in emergency situations.

If the flooding is due to a natural disaster or excessive rain, shutting off the water might not be possible. In such cases, your priority should be to prevent water from spreading further inside your home.

Step Two: Protect Your Belongings

Water spreads fast, seeping into carpets, flooring, and furniture within minutes. If possible, move valuable items like electronics, important documents, and sentimental belongings to a dry area. If you cannot move furniture, placing aluminum foil or wooden blocks under the legs can help prevent water absorption and minimize swelling and warping.

Step Three: Remove Excess Water

If the water level is manageable and safe to remove on your own, use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to soak up standing water. However, keep in mind that water damage goes beyond what is visible. Water can seep under floorboards, behind walls, and into insulation, leading to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. While removing visible water helps, professional water extraction ensures all hidden moisture is eliminated.

Step Four: Call a Professional Restoration Company

Even after you’ve mopped up the water and aired out the room, moisture may still be trapped within your home’s structure. That’s why it’s crucial to call a professional water damage restoration company as soon as possible. In Denver and surrounding areas, Anatom Restoration specializes in handling water damage emergencies with advanced drying equipment, moisture detection tools, and professional expertise. Their team is available 24/7 to ensure water is removed thoroughly and your home is restored properly, preventing long-term damage.

Step Five: Address the Damage

Water damage can weaken walls, flooring, and ceilings, making them susceptible to structural failure over time. If water has reached drywall or insulation, it may need to be replaced to prevent mold growth. Even if the affected area appears dry on the surface, it’s essential to have professionals assess the damage and perform necessary repairs.

Ignoring minor water damage today can lead to expensive repairs later. If you’ve experienced flooding, don’t wait for the damage to escalate. Contact Anatom Restoration for fast and professional water damage cleanup and restoration.