Labor Day will be different this year in Texas

Labor Day, a holiday created to celebrate the common worker in America, has a different mean to those of us on the Texas coast this year. This year it will be a day of communities coming together for support, rebuilding and trying to return to normalcy in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.

At the time this blog is being written it has been 10 days since Harvey made landfall and a week since Houston’s massive flooding began. Now the flood waters have receded (your blogger drove under the iconic “Be Someone” graffiti today) and homeowners have to decide what to do with their damaged property.

The first question is – is your home safe? Before you go rushing in, check for any visible structural damage, such as warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, cracks, and holes before entering the home and contact utility companies if you suspect damage to water, gas, electric, and sewer lines. Turn off the power (if it’s operating) to prevent it from coming on while you assess damage. Take pictures. A lot of them. Of everything. And back them up so you don’t loose them! You’ll need proof of the damage to file a claim. And protect yourself with heavy rubber books and gloves – who knows what’s been washed into your home with the flood!

Once you are OK to enter, you’ve got to decide what goes and what stays? Mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours of a flood so remove wet contents, including carpeting and bedding, as soon as possible. If an item has been wet for less than 48 hours, it may be saved, but at a cost. Mold growth can be controlled on hard surfaces by cleaning with a non-ammonia detergent or pine oil cleaner and disinfecting with a 10% bleach solution. Most non-wood furniture will not be salvageable. Wet walls and baseboards should be replaced along with any insulation that got wet. Consult professionals as needed for extended repairs, mold removal and large appliance salvage. Some kitchen appliances and washer/dryers can live on after a flood, but there are risks to trying.

Don’t forget to call your insurer!  They can also help you apply for FEMA help also. We are already showing the country how #Texans come together.  Don’t be afraid to reach out to your neighbors!  Not handy, but love to bake? Swap repair work for breakfast with  handy neighbors. Help watch neighborhood kiddos or take loads of laundry to a laundromat or mobile trailer. There’s some way for everyone to rebuild our communities and show the nation we are #TexasStrong.