The short answer
Safety First Before You Start
Before you touch any water, turn off the electricity to the garage at the breaker panel. If the floor is wet, stand on dry boards or wear rubber boots to avoid shock. Do not enter if water is deep or if you smell gas, and call your utility provider if you suspect a leak.
Wear gloves and a mask because floodwater can carry debris and bacteria. Open the garage door and any windows to let fresh air in, but keep children and pets away from the wet area. If you feel unwell, see a doctor.
Remove the Standing Water
Use a wet/dry vacuum to suck up shallow puddles, or a submersible pump for deeper water. Work from the far end of the garage toward the door so you do not push water into dry spots. Hose out any mud or dirt after the water is gone.
If the water came from a broken pipe or heavy rain, check the floor drain for clogs. Clear leaves or debris so the water can flow out. For a large flood, local water damage pros can handle the extraction faster and more safely.
- Wet/dry vacuum for small puddles
- Submersible pump for deep water
- Floor squeegee to push water out
- Mop and bucket for final pass
- Shovel for mud and sediment
Dry the Garage Interior
After the water is out, set up box fans or a high-velocity fan to move air across the floor and walls. Aim them at the wettest spots, and open the garage door to let humid air escape. A dehumidifier pulls moisture from the air and speeds up drying.
Leave fans running for at least 24 to 48 hours, checking the floor and walls daily. If you live in Daytona Beach, the humid climate can slow drying, so keep the air moving longer. Door mats, cardboard, and stored items should be removed and dried outside.
- Run fans continuously for 24 to 48 hours
- Use a dehumidifier in a closed garage
- Move wet boxes and furniture outside
- Wipe down metal tools to prevent rust
- Check under shelves and in corners
Dry Walls and Flooring
Garage walls are often drywall or concrete, and both absorb water. Cut away soaked drywall at least 12 inches above the water line, because it can sag and grow mold. For concrete floors, use a floor squeegee and then fans to dry the surface.
If the floor is sealed or painted, check for bubbles or peeling. Water can seep under flooring, so lift any loose tiles or mats. For extensive damage, the pros may need to remove water-damaged flooring or drywall to prevent hidden moisture.
Prevent Mold and Future Floods
Mold can start growing within a day or two, so keep the garage dry and well-ventilated. After drying, scrub hard surfaces with a mild detergent and water to remove any residue. If you see dark spots or smell musty odors, a mold professional can assess the situation.
To reduce future flooding, clean gutters and downspouts so water drains away from the garage. Check the door seal for gaps and consider a floor drain cover. For a broken pipe, a plumber can fix the source.
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to dry a flooded garage?
Drying usually takes 24 to 72 hours with fans and a dehumidifier running constantly. The exact time depends on the amount of water, humidity, and airflow. In a humid climate like Daytona Beach, it may take longer. Check for damp spots daily.
Can I dry a flooded garage myself?
You can handle small spills with a wet/dry vacuum and fans. For deep water or if the flood lasted more than a day, call the pros. They have industrial equipment to dry walls and floors fully. Acting quickly helps prevent mold damage.
What should I throw away after a garage flood?
Throw away soaked cardboard boxes, particleboard furniture, and mattresses. Any porous items like rugs or cushions that stay wet for long can grow mold. Keep metal tools and plastic bins, but dry them thoroughly. If in doubt, discard items with a musty smell.