Water Extraction and Flood Cleanup
Standing water has to come out fast and the building has to dry completely afterward. Both steps matter, and skipping the second one is how hidden mold and warped floors begin.
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Tell the operator your city, what happened and whether water is still running. You will be connected with a local provider that covers your area.
(833) 925-0846Emergency water damage? Call toll free now
- Give your city and ZIP code
- Say what happened and if water is still running
- Ask the company about its license and insurance
Why extraction comes first
The more water you remove mechanically, the less the drying equipment has to evaporate. Pumps and truck mounted or portable extractors can pull gallons from carpet, pad and hard floors in far less time than air movers alone. Extraction is also when a crew finds where water traveled, such as under baseboards, behind cabinets or into wall cavities.
Flood water is not the same as a plumbing leak
Water that comes in from outside, from storms, rivers or overflowing drains, is usually treated as contaminated because it carries soil, bacteria and chemicals. Porous materials such as carpet, pad, insulation and drywall that were soaked by contaminated water are normally removed rather than dried. A professional will explain which materials can be saved and which cannot, and why.
What flood cleanup includes
- Water extraction from floors and low areas
- Removal of wet carpet, pad, baseboards and damaged drywall
- Cleaning and sanitizing affected surfaces
- Placement of air movers and dehumidifiers
- Moisture mapping and daily readings until dry standards are met
- Photo and reading records you can share with your insurer
Do not use household vacuums
A shop vacuum rated for wet use is one thing. A regular household vacuum on a wet floor is a shock hazard. If water is near outlets or appliances, stay out and wait for a crew.
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Frequently asked questions
How long does extraction take?
Pulling standing water usually takes hours rather than days. Drying the structure afterward typically takes several days, longer for hardwood, plaster, concrete or heavily saturated areas.
Can wet carpet be saved?
Sometimes. Carpet that was soaked by clean water and dried quickly can often be saved, though the pad is commonly replaced. Carpet soaked by contaminated water is generally removed.
Do I need to move out?
Not always. If the water was clean and the area is limited, many people stay. After contaminated flooding, or when power or air quality is a concern, a short stay elsewhere may be safer. The crew can advise.
Need this service now?
Call toll free and tell the operator what happened.