How to Protect Breakable Objects in Case of a Flood

10/12/2016 (Permalink)

Flooding in Edgewater Can Cause Lost Treasures, But Be Safe First

SERVPRO Tips to Limit Flood Damage to Valuable Personal Property

Floods typically enter homes at a rate of dozens to hundreds of gallons of water per minute, or sometimes more. These groundwaters, of course, carry a large amount of force, and very few objects in their path will be able to stand up to the flow of the water unless they are secured to the ground. However, what should concern you the most are breakables, as these are objects that can't be repaired or restored by our techniques after the water has been removed. Here are some of the most at-risk breakables in the average home, and some tips to protect them.
 
Fine China and Glassware
Many homes have expensive displays of fine china, and if the cabinet containing these pieces is rooted to the ground, these highly fragile ceramics are highly prone to breaking or chipping in Edgewater flood damage scenarios. To better protect a china set (or any other set of breakable collectibles), consider keeping them in a wall-mounted display case situated well above a potential water line.
 
Electronics
Many electronics, and especially larger objects such as televisions, computers, or stereo systems, can be severely damaged or destroyed during a flood. Try to keep objects above the floor or in cabinets, and preferably in wall cutouts or mounts. Even if these are not above the water level, it certainly helps to keep the electronics from being smashed about and carried by water.
 
Vases and Ceramics
Many homes have ornate vases, sculptures, or glass displays situated on tables or the floor of a corner. Should a flood hit, these vulnerable mounts, and locations are often the first to be hit, almost certainly resulting in the destruction of anything breakable on top. Once again, wall mounts are preferable, although a solid base above the floor level may be enough to prevent some damage.
 
When floods hit the area, locals count on SERVPRO of New Smyrna Beach-Titusville to help restore household objects and repair the home back to normal. If your home has damaged by a flood large or small, call us right away at (321) 264-0205.