The short answer
Safety First
Before you touch anything, turn off the power to the affected rooms at the breaker panel. Floodwater can carry bacteria, chemicals, and sewage, so wear rubber gloves, boots, and a mask. Open windows for ventilation and keep children and pets away from the work area.
If you feel unwell during cleaning, stop and see a doctor. If the water came from a sewer line or a source you cannot identify, treat it as contaminated. In that case, you may want to contact local water damage pros for guidance on safe handling.
Remove Mud and Debris
Use a plastic scraper or a stiff brush to remove thick mud and debris from the wall surface. Work from the top down so that falling material does not re-soil already cleaned areas. For drywall, be gentle to avoid tearing the paper face.
After the bulk is gone, rinse the walls with a hose or buckets of clean water. This helps wash away remaining grit. If you have a wet-dry vacuum, you can use it to suck up dirty water and speed up the process.
- Wear gloves and a mask
- Turn off power first
- Scrape off thick mud
- Rinse with clean water
- Use a wet-dry vacuum
- Work from top to bottom
Wash with Detergent
Mix a mild detergent, like dish soap, with warm water in a bucket. Dip a sponge or soft cloth into the solution and wring it out well. Wash the walls starting at the bottom and working upward to avoid streaks. Rinse your sponge often in clean water.
For stubborn stains, you can add a small amount of household cleaner, but test it on a hidden spot first. Do not mix bleach with other cleaners, as that can create dangerous fumes. After washing, go over the walls again with plain water to remove any soap residue.
Dry Walls Thoroughly
Moisture left inside walls can lead to mold growth and structural damage. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to circulate air. If you have a dehumidifier, empty it often. Aim for the walls to feel completely dry to the touch before you consider repainting or finishing.
For drywall that has been soaked, drying may not be enough. Floodwater can wick up into the material and weaken it. If the drywall feels soft or crumbles, you may need to cut it out and replace it. A professional can assess the extent of the damage.
When to Call the Pros
If the floodwater was contaminated, or if the walls are heavily damaged, cleaning alone may not make them safe. Local water damage pros have the equipment and experience to handle contaminated water and to dry out structures properly. They can also inspect for hidden moisture.
In Layton, if you are unsure about the safety of your walls, a professional inspection can give you peace of mind. The pros can also help with contents cleaning and structural drying. The cost depends on the extent of damage, the type of walls, and the time needed, so ask for an assessment.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Contaminated water source
- Soft or crumbling drywall
- Persistent musty odor
- Visible mold growth
- Large affected area
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Can I clean floodwater walls myself?
You can clean minor flood damage yourself if the water was clean and you take safety precautions. Wear protective gear, turn off power, and dry everything well. If the water was contaminated or the damage is severe, call the pros.
How long does it take for walls to dry?
Drying time varies with humidity, airflow, and the type of wall material. With fans and dehumidifiers, you may see dry surfaces in a few days, but deeper moisture can take longer. Use a moisture meter to check if you have one.
Should I remove drywall after a flood?
If drywall is soaked and soft, it likely needs to be removed because it can harbor mold and lose strength. Cut out sections above the water line and replace them after the framing is dry. A professional can help assess the damage.