The short answer
Immediate Safety and Water Removal
Your first step is to turn off electricity to the kitchen at the breaker box if it is safe to do so. Stop the water source, whether that means shutting off your home's main valve or calling a plumber. Once safe, remove standing water with a wet-dry vacuum or mops to minimize absorption into flooring and cabinetry.
Act quickly to limit secondary damage. Move any small appliances and dry goods to a dry area. Soaked porous items like cardboard boxes or area rugs should be discarded. The longer water sits, the more it compromises materials like particle board in cabinets and laminate flooring.
Professional Drying and Moisture Detection
After bulk water removal, hidden moisture remains in walls, subfloors, and behind cabinets. Local water damage pros use industrial air movers and dehumidifiers to dry these spaces. This equipment creates airflow and controls humidity to draw moisture out of building materials effectively.
They also use moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras to map the full extent of the water damage. This inspection finds wet spots you cannot see, ensuring the entire affected area is addressed. Without this step, trapped moisture can lead to mold growth and wood rot.
- Inspect walls and floors for hidden moisture pockets.
- Place air movers to circulate air across wet surfaces.
- Use dehumidifiers to lower indoor humidity and aid drying.
- Monitor drying progress daily with moisture meters.
- Remove baseboards or drill small holes to ventilate wall cavities.
- Check inside and under all cabinets and appliances.
Cleaning and Sanitizing Surfaces
Flood water often contains contaminants from sewers, soil, or household chemicals. All hard surfaces that got wet need thorough cleaning and disinfecting. This includes countertops, cabinet exteriors and interiors, appliance housings, and flooring. Use appropriate cleaners for the material and a disinfectant registered with the EPA.
Pay special attention to areas where food is prepared. Remove all items from drawers and cabinets to clean the interiors. Non-porous items like dishes and utensils can be sanitized, but discard any porous items that absorbed contaminated water, such as wooden spoons or cutting boards.
Assessing and Repairing Damage
Once the area is dry and clean, you can assess what needs repair or replacement. Water can warp wooden cabinets, delaminate plywood, and cause drywall to swell and crumble. Subflooring may need replacement if it remains soft or spongy after drying.
Repairs might involve replacing sections of drywall, installing new flooring, or rebuilding cabinet bases. If structural elements like floor joists were affected, a qualified contractor should evaluate them. Materials like laminate flooring often cannot be salvaged after a significant flood.
Working with Your Insurance
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. Document everything with photos and videos before you start cleaning and throughout the process. Keep a detailed list of damaged or discarded items, including descriptions and estimated values.
Your adjuster will review the damage and your policy details. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Save all receipts for any temporary repairs, cleaning supplies, or professional services you hire, as these costs may be part of your claim.
- Call your insurer promptly to start a claim.
- Take extensive photos and video of all damage.
- Create a detailed inventory of lost or damaged contents.
- Keep all receipts for related expenses.
- Review your policy for coverage limits and deductibles.
- Ask your adjuster about required documentation.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Can I save my water-damaged kitchen cabinets?
It depends on the material and exposure time. Solid wood cabinets may be salvageable if dried quickly. Particle board or MDF cabinets often swell and disintegrate, requiring replacement. A professional assessment can determine if drying and repair are feasible.
How long does it take to dry a flooded kitchen?
Drying typically takes two to five days with professional equipment. The timeline depends on the water volume, materials affected, and indoor humidity. Cabinets and subfloors take the longest to dry completely and must be verified with moisture meters.
Is flood water in a kitchen a health hazard?
Yes, it can be. Water from a sewer backup, appliance overflow, or outdoor flooding can contain harmful bacteria. Wear protective gear when cleaning and thoroughly disinfect all surfaces. See a doctor if you feel unwell after exposure.