Assessing and Dealing with Specific Damage during Water Damage Cleanup

Flooding can cause extensive damage to your home, including water damage to wood. If left untreated, this damage can lead to mold, mildew, and other problems. It is important to disinfect wood after a flood to prevent these problems and ensure the safety of your home.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Bleach
• Water
• Bucket
• Sponge
• Gloves
• Mask

Steps to Disinfect Wood After a Flood:

1. Remove standing water. Use a wet/dry vacuum or mop to remove as much standing water as possible.
2. Open windows and doors. Ventilate the area to remove excess moisture.
3. Create a bleach solution. Mix 1 cup of bleach per gallon of water in a bucket.
4. Apply the bleach solution to the wood. Use a sponge to apply the bleach solution to the wood, making sure to cover all affected areas.
5. Let the bleach solution sit. Allow the bleach solution to sit on the wood for 10 minutes.
6. Rinse the wood with water. Use a clean sponge or cloth to rinse the wood with water.
7. Dry the wood. Use a fan or dehumidifier to dry the wood completely.

Tips for Disinfecting Wood After a Flood:

• Wear gloves and a mask when disinfecting wood.
• Do not use chlorine bleach on finished wood, as it can damage the finish.
• If the wood is badly damaged, you may need to replace it.
• If you have any questions about disinfecting wood after a flood, consult with a professional.