- Good call on checking the base plates and studs—I've been burned by hidden moisture there before.
- Ever tried using a moisture meter on wood framing? I find it helps, but sometimes the readings seem off.
- Curious if anyone's had luck with just running dehumidifiers and fans, or is full demo always the way to go?
- Also, what's your take on treating exposed wood with mold inhibitors after drying? Worth it or overkill?
Curious if anyone's had luck with just running dehumidifiers and fans, or is full demo always the way to go?
I've had a couple close calls where dehus and fans saved me from ripping everything out, but only when I caught it quick. If water's been sitting for more than a day or two, demo usually wins—hidden moisture loves to lurk where you can't see. Moisture meters can be sketchy too, especially if you're dealing with treated lumber. As for mold inhibitors after drying, I say better safe than sorry. It’s like insurance for your studs... not always necessary, but you’ll sleep better.
Title: Dealing with the Aftermath: How Do You Actually Dry Out a Flooded Basement?
You nailed it—speed is everything. If you catch the water within the first 24 hours, dehumidifiers and fans can do wonders, especially if you’ve got good airflow and can pull baseboards or drill a few holes to help things along. But once that water’s been hanging around for more than a day or two, you’re rolling the dice. I’ve seen “dry” walls turn into science experiments a week later because moisture hid behind insulation or under sill plates.
Moisture meters are helpful, but they’re not magic wands. Treated lumber, as you mentioned, can throw off readings, and sometimes you’ll get false negatives if there’s vapor barrier or dense materials in the way. I always tell folks—trust your nose and your gut as much as your tools. If it smells musty or feels damp, there’s probably still trouble brewing.
On mold inhibitors: I’m with you. They’re not a cure-all, but after drying things out, it’s cheap insurance. I’ve had homeowners thank me months later because they didn’t get that “old basement” smell creeping back in. Just make sure whatever product you use is compatible with your building materials—some of those sprays can be pretty harsh.
One thing people forget is checking under flooring—vinyl planks, carpet pads, even tile can trap moisture underneath. Had a job last year where everything looked fine on the surface, but when we pulled up the laminate, it was like a swamp down there. Sometimes demo isn’t about being dramatic; it’s just about making sure you’re not setting yourself up for bigger headaches down the line.
Long story short: act fast if you can, but don’t be afraid to open things up if there’s any doubt. Better to patch some drywall now than deal with black mold later... trust me on that one.
You’re preaching to the choir about pulling up flooring. I once found a literal frog living under some carpet padding—guess he liked the humidity more than I did. Folks always want to skip the “messy” part, but you’re right, sometimes you gotta get your hands dirty or you’ll be dealing with a biology project later. Curious, though—how do you feel about those DIY moisture barriers people slap down after a flood? I’ve seen some wild stuff with plastic sheeting and duct tape... not sure it’s always helping.
I get what you mean about those DIY moisture barriers. I’ve seen folks just slap down a layer of garbage bags and call it a day, but honestly, if there’s still moisture trapped underneath, you’re just making a petri dish for mold. If it’s not bone dry before you cover it, you’re asking for trouble. I’m curious—has anyone had luck with those fancy dehumidifiers or do you think fans and patience are just as good?
