When a flood strikes, it can be an upsetting time. The damage can be catastrophic, and the heartache can be just as destructive. The best way to limit—or eliminate—the pain of flood damage is to prevent it in the first place. An examination of why will help shed light on the value of flood control systems.
What Water Does to Your Home
The primary danger of unwanted water in your home is mold. Mold only needs a humidity level of around 55% to start growing and thriving. If it gets that kind of environment, it starts spreading and multiplying. Once it multiplies, it becomes a powerfully negative influence on the air quality of your Chicago home. Many potential home buyers will balk at purchasing a home just because of the smell or presence of mold. The only way to combat mold is to reduce the moisture level of your home. Destroying it with powerful chemicals may get rid of it temporarily, but if the moisture is allowed to remain, the mold will continue to flourish.
How to Use a Flood Control System to Combat Mold
In Chicago, if your basement is penetrated by water, you will need something to get the water out. Otherwise, it can produce an environment conducive to the growth of mold. A flood control system prevents the problem. When the pump kicks on, it does so automatically. The water is then expelled from your home through the sewage system. Even if there is an aggressive flood, the water is kicked out at a rate sufficient to limit the growth of mold. However, without a flood control system in place, the water is only expunged at the rate at which you can bail it out or mop it up. So, you can think of your flood control system as a “de-modifier” during times of flooding. To know more, click here.
How Flood Control Should Be Maintained
Once installed, your flood control system will need to be maintained, particularly given the flood conditions often seen in Chicago. Your installer can provide that maintenance for you. You can even set up appointments well in advance so that you don’t have to worry about it in the future. Regardless of how you set it up, remember that adequate maintenance must be performed to make sure your system can operate as it’s designed.
If you’re ready to take control of the moisture levels of your home during a Chicago flood, reach out to North Coast Sewer and Drainage. We have flood control systems that can be customized to accommodate your needs. Give us a call at (847) 361-0970 so we can come and help you find the perfect solution.
