3 Tips for Flood Odor Removal

3/14/2018 (Permalink)

The flooding in Massillon ran into this Workshop which saturated the flooring.

Even after a flooding disaster has been dealt with in your building, it’s possible that foul or unpleasant odors may remain. It’s not uncommon to experience lingering smells after water damage has seemingly been remediated. If you sniff a mildew, moldy, musty or dirt-like presence in the air, then additional action must be taken. Continued odors can be an indication that mold growth hasn’t been contained. Here are three tips that may be the answer to safely removing odors left behind by flood water.

1. Ensure Affected Areas Are Dry

Drying flooded areas is the first step to remediating and containing damage, so hopefully this has already been completed. If some moisture lingers, open any nearby windows for several hours to help with air circulation. Dehumidifiers and floor fans can also go a long way in removing moisture from the air and accelerating drying times. Getting the air moving also helps with banishing lingering stale air.

2. Apply a Cleaning Solution

A natural solution of vinegar and water can be used to erase unwanted odors. Simply combine two cups of warm water and one cup of vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to any surface with lingering smells. While your instincts may push you to be overzealous in your cleaning efforts, use caution and don’t get trigger-happy with the spray bottle. Oversaturating the space could begin a new cycle of mold growth.

3. Use Baking Soda

Applying baking soda directly to previously damaged surfaces can provide odor relief in affected spaces that are smaller in scope. Leaving the substance on overnight gives it time to absorb lingering moisture and odors. Simply vacuum it up, and oftentimes smells will vanish right along with the baking soda.

If the initial damage was the result of a sewage loss incident or was caused by any form of black water, additional and more thorough measures may be necessary. Flood remediation professionals in Jackson Township, OH have the tools and expertise that can safely and effectively remove odors and mold growth once and for all.

Visit http://www.SERVPROnorthweststarkcounty.com for more information on commercial storm damage.