At Phoenix Water Damage Services, we’re committed to restoring your property quickly, safely, and efficiently after a water loss. One of the techniques we often use during the dry-out process is something called a flood cut. If you’ve never experienced water damage before, you may be wondering what that is—and why it’s necessary.
A flood cut is the removal of drywall typically 12 to 24 inches above the water line. This is done to access and remove wet insulation and to allow the inside of the wall cavity to dry thoroughly. Drywall and insulation are extremely porous materials that can hold moisture for long periods of time, which makes them a perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria. If left untouched, trapped moisture behind walls can cause structural damage, musty odors, and even health issues due to mold growth.
By making a clean, horizontal cut in the drywall, we can speed up the drying process significantly. This also helps minimize the area that needs to be replaced later, keeping restoration costs more manageable. Once the area behind the wall is exposed, we place professional drying equipment such as air movers and dehumidifiers to circulate dry air and remove lingering moisture.
Flood cuts are especially important in cases where category 2 or category 3 water (such as from a storm, sewer backup, or contaminated source) is involved. In these cases, removing and replacing affected materials is necessary for health and safety.
We understand that seeing your walls cut open can be unsettling, but rest assured—it’s a critical part of a thorough and professional water damage restoration. Our team works quickly and carefully to make sure your home is safe, dry, and ready for repairs.
If you’ve experienced water damage in your Phoenix home, don’t wait—contact Phoenix Water Damage Services today. We’re here 24/7 to help you restore what matters most.