A Cut Above: When To Use a Flood Cut

7/31/2021 (Permalink)

When Should You Use a Flood Cut?

When storms rage in Sunny Isles, FL, your home could be affected by the subsequent flooding that occurs. If the floodwaters rise to extreme levels, you may have to call water restoration specialists to protect your home from further water damage and mold growth. Part of the process they often use to replace damaged walls is a flood cut. A flood cut allows them to tear out the damaged drywall so that it and any waterlogged insulation behind it can be replaced.

When It Is Used

Not every flood calls for a flood cut. One of the criteria for determining if it is necessary is the water contamination level:

• Category 1 – clean water that can be safely consumed
• Category 2 – gray water that may contain viruses or bacteria
• Category 3 – black water that may contain harmful chemicals or sewage
  
  

If the water is clean and damage is minimal, technicians may not need to remove the wall. If the water is contaminated or the flooding clearly saturated the wall and probably everything behind it, the wall has to be replaced. Then a flood cut is necessary.

How It Is Used

Restoration professionals start by marking a spot at least 12 inches above the top of the wall's water damage. This is done to ensure that all the damage is removed. After it is marked, the flood cut is made. Every bit of the wall beneath the cut is removed. If the water damage has permeated the wall and dampened the insulation behind it, the insulation has to be replaced because it cannot be dried. Once every inch of damage has been removed, new insulation and new drywall can be installed, and your home in Sunny Isles, FL, can start to look right again.

Any time flooding occurs, there is the possibility that professional restorers will need to use a flood cut to protect your property from further damage. Only by removing damaged walls can stronger walls replace them.