Understanding What to Remove and What Can Be Saved

Towns around Fort Lauderdale are regularly at risk for flooding, whether through tropical storms, intense rains, or overflowing canal waters. Once the waters have receded, residents are left with the overwhelming task of cataloging what has been left behind. Perhaps the most emotionally and logistically challenging aspect is determining what can be saved and what must be discarded. 

The Science of Salvaging

Content salvageability is an essential distinction for flood damage cleanup in Cooper City properties. Once items come in contact with water from natural sources—especially floodwaters—they're likely to be tainted with chemicals, bacteria, or even sewage. Without training, it is easy to overestimate dangers or discard things our team could have saved. 

Here is how our professionals determine salvageability:

  • Porosity is essential: Solid materials such as metal, glass, and hard plastics can generally be disinfected and restored. Porous materials such as drywall, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and particle boards absorb water and generally require replacement. 

  • Water type: A burst supply pipe of clean water differs from gray or black water. Contents that have come into contact with black water (sewage or outdoor floodwater) are more challenging—and potentially hazardous—to restore. 

  • Length of exposure: Items that have been exposed for longer than 24–48 hours, particularly in Florida's hot climate, are far more susceptible to mold and must be carefully examined. 

  • Structural and sentimental value: Pieces such as solid wood furniture or heirlooms may be valuable enough to restore if they are structurally sound and have sentimental value. However, this usually involves professional drying and refinishing. 

AdvantaClean of Fort Lauderdale: Professional Eyes for Emotional Choices 

At AdvantaClean of Fort Lauderdale, we recognize that sorting through the damaged items after a flood is not just a checklist but a personal task. Therefore, we ensure professional content evaluation services are a component of our overall flood cleaning service for Cooper City residents and others. 

Our expert technicians examine each item based on industry-standard protocols, safeguarding your family while doing everything possible to restore what's most important. We use moisture meters, antimicrobial treatments, and deep cleaning methods to save as much as possible—without compromising your health or home. 

Our professional staff provides: 

  • Comprehensive content inventory and damage categorization 

  • Off-site and on-site content cleaning  

  • Dehumidification and climate-controlled storage of rescued items during cleanup  

Don't Make Difficult Choices Alone When AdvantaClean Can Help 

If a flood has affected your Cooper City home, do not attempt to make the daunting decisions of what to discard and what to retain on your own. An incorrect choice can result in financial loss, the loss of sentimental items, or even compromised health. Contact AdvantaClean of Fort Lauderdale today at (954) 994-2947.

Schedule an Appointment or Call (754) 218-8070

To request a service call, please fill out the form below and we will contact you via phone, email or text as soon as possible to confirm an appointment time. You will receive an email confirming your service request. 

*All fields required. By submitting this form, you agree to receive calls, text messages, or emails at the contact information provided. Message rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out at any time. We won’t share your information. Not all locations provide the same services. View our Privacy Policy.

(754) 218-8070
Categories