Water Removal And Restoration For Flooring And Drywall...

A flood or failed plumbing eventually winds up on the floors and possibly creeping into the walls. Techniques to restore flooring will alter slightly depending on the type of floor covering that has been damaged. However, in each case the big danger is mold or mildew taking hold. The water removal and drying process should be started immediately and after that, it's up to you whether you call in the water damage restoration experts or attempt to dry your belongings yourself. If you don't feel comfortable with the work that may be required to comelete the restoration job then you first task is to call in the water damage specialists.

Failing any of these restoration solutions the final option may well be to come up with inexpensive flooring to replace the flooded floor.

Restoring Hardwood Floors After Water Damage

Bearing the brunt of major water damage, hardwood floors will run the risk of suffering severe damage owing to swelling and buckling unless expert restoration is done. A water damage restoration company can control the drying time to fix hardwood floor water damage with a couple of simple techniques such as forcing air through the undersides of the floorboards.

Another successful technique employed by restoration companies is to alleviate the pressure built up by the swollen floorboards by removing a board every few feet. Taking the pressure out of the floor lowers the risk that the boards will buckle during the drying process.

So how should you dry water damaged hardwood floors? The best method is to create good air circulation in the room. Open windows and doors and turn on fans to help move the air around the room faster. By creating air flow in the room the evaporation process will begin, moving out the moisture loaded air and moving in dry air.

Air drying can be a slow process when trying to dry out water damaged floors but it is also the most inexpensive. The trick is to start the process as early as possible after the floor has become wet.

Laminate Water Damage

If your laminate floor has developed a buckle or it is warping to any degree, it could be a sign that there is some kind of water damage affecting it. Water may affect laminate flooring by getting into the subfloor where the dampness affects the laminate bond.

If you find laminate flooring water damage the affected area in the laminate must be lifted and removed. It may then be possible to cut out a replacement piece and fit it in the hole, but this is a tricky operation and will depend on the type of laminate flooring you’re trying to replace such as laminate planks, strips or tiles.

As a little tip with laminate floors, never use a wet mop to clean them because the water can seep through the joins and cause irreparable damage underneath. Rather, use either a vacuum or a broom to keep it clean. You should also avoid using abrasive cleaning liquids on the floor because it can end up scratching the floor.

Laminate floor water damage can also occur as a result of high humidity or sudden changes in humidity from low to high and back to low again. These fluctuations can cause the laminated boards to separate causing large gaps between the boards and can even result in buckling.

Drywall Water Damage

If the water has travelled high enough to start moving up the walls, then you're going to have to prepare yourself for some damage to the drywall.

The first step to restoring water damaged drywall is to pin down the extent of the damage that you have to fix. Your first determination has to be whether the damage is small enough that you can repair it yourself or if it is so extensive you will have to call in the restoration professionals.

If the damage is manageable you will have to cut out the damaged section of the wall. This serves two purposes: first, the wall will have started to swell and break down if the floodwater levels were high for any period of time; second, you want to get ventilation into the wall cavity to dry out the space completely.

Once the remaining wall is dry you can install a drywall patch over the hole. If the hole is a significant size you may need plywood backing. But the drywall replacement job is the same as a normal drywall patch.

If you think your home may be prone to more flooding, it might be an idea to buy a water-resistant drywall patch to avoid having to go through another traumatic water restoration project.

Carpet Water Damage

A nightmare to restore and, if we are talking about water damage from a flood, be prepared to lose the underlay and maybe even the entire carpet too. The job of a good water damage restoration expert is to dry the carpet quickly without destroying the shape of the carpet (it may stretch or shrink if not restored properly).

As a simple rule of thumb, if you are unable to dry your carpet within 48 hours after the water damage occurred the carpet should be discarded. And if the carpet has been contaminated with sewage or gray water, it must definitely be discarded.

So the first thing you need to do is to get as much water out of the carpet as quickly as possible, but do it in a way that won't cause the carpet to go out of shape. The carpet needs to be lifted and, if possible, blowers placed around the room to get the air moving. While the carpets are up have the doors and windows open or, if it is warm, make use of a dehumidifier to ensure the hard structures of the room have been completely dried out.

Only when the room has been completely dried out and the treatment of the carpet has been completed should the carpet be re-installed. Failure to do so will only invite the possibility of mold and mildew to take up residence in your house.

Rug Water Damage

A little easier to restore after water damage than carpet, a water damaged run can absorb a lot of moisture but it can be reasonably easily removed for cleaning and drying. The pile of the rug can harbor bacteria and must be thoroughly washed. In the case of some expensive rugs, specialist restoration work may be required, possibly to repair any color bleeding that may have taken place.

Quick, but controlled, drying of rugs can be achieved by taking them off site and placing them in a dedicated drying room. Proper care by professionals is recommended for treasured rugs to prevent shrinkage or the rugs going out of shape.

Water Damage Restoration

Water damage restoration is a specialist job and although the initial steps of beginning the drying process by promoting good ventilation into the house, it is a good idea to call in the water damage restoration experts as early on in the process as you can.

For best results, contact the professionals at Water Damage Local.com

Original Article

The Domino Effect....

It’s one thing to get blindsided by one disaster that uproots your life and turns everything on its collective ear, but it’s something else entirely to get blindsided twice in a period of weeks.  That is exactly what happened in Wilbraham, Massachusetts recently, as property owners had to face the double bill of tornadoes and the severe storms that followed in their path.

On June 1, a tornado tore through the town, causing widespread damage.  This past week, severe storms roared through the area, knocking out traffic signals, uprooting trees, and stringing debris across roads, yards, swimming pools, everywhere.  Once again, residents began the painstaking process of having to rebuild their lives in the wake of disaster.

One couple was the victim of a double whammy, losing their home, then moving into an insurance company provided mobile home, which was subsequently destroyed by the most recent wave of severe weather.   Another man suffered a heart attack and the death of his spouse during the storms.

As of midweek, the entire town of Wilbraham was without power, and by Friday, some 2800 residents were still in the dark.   The high winds also damage the roof of the local high school’s pool and destroyed the scoreboard on the football field.

Severe weather is a problem that every area of the country faces, and it almost always brings with it the threat of water damage.  While it is impossible to wholly prevent such damage from occurring, it is possible to at least keep it to a minimum. 

For starters, make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of obstructions.  You want to make sure that they are properly channeling water in the right direction, away from your home.  Likewise for the landscaping.  Make sure it slopes away from your home for a distance of no less than ten feet (but preferably more).  In high rainfall situations, the ground can only absorb so much water….once the ground is saturated, the excess has to go somewhere.  If the ground slopes toward your home, guess where the water is going to go?

You should also install a sump pump set up (with backflow valve) in your basement, this will help funnel excess water out before it can back up and become a problem.  Elevate appliances and other electrical items to keep them out of range of flood waters, and move all valuables to higher levels in your home to prevent them from being damaged or destroyed.

In the event of severe weather or tornadoes (or hurricanes, or typhoons, or whatever), be prepared to evacuate.  Know where you are going, and have an evacuation bag ready to take with you.  Stock the bag (one for each member of the family) with a change of clothes, money, food and bottled water, as well as a radio to monitor weather conditions, and anything else you may need.

To handle any water damage that may occur, contact Water Damage Local.com.  Our nationwide network of providers are available 24/7, IICRC certified, and able to handle even the most severe water and storm damage problems.

Contact Water Damage Local.com today to get connected to a qualified water restoration provider in your community today.

Cleaning A Flooded Basement....

No matter if you're experiencing a regional flood, or or if your basement is under water because a pipe broke, you'll need to clean it up immediately afterwards. The faster the water flood is cleaned up, the less damage can occur.

Assuming you have already contacted the insurance agency who covers your house, your next step is to "Think Safety." This is a key to successful clean up your basement after a water flood has happened. Before you step foot inside your basement to clean, make sure the electricity to that area is turned off inside your house! If there's still flood water standing in your basement, don't walk in it! Use a broom handle instead, to reach the main switch on your fuse box or breaker box. If that doesn't work, then call a licensed electrician before you begin your clean up- maybe you can save money by calling a family member, neighbor, or friend who is one- to check your basement. A licensed electrician can tell you if it's safe to walk in the water. If it's not, he can also repair the problem while he's there.

Anytime you smell natural gas in or around your basement, especially after a water flood, contact your gas provider immediately! If you know how to shut the gas off, then do so. Otherwise, open all the windows and doors of your house, evacuate the premises, and refrain from smoking, creating sparks or flames.

Now, once your basement is safe to walk in, it's time to clean up after the water flood. Protect yourself from dirt, germs and bacteria by wearing water proof boots and gloves, a long-sleeved shirt and pants. If you know there's mold in your basement, or if you even suspect there is, then you should wear a protective face mask so you don't breathe the mold spores into your nose and lungs.

Also, remember to wash your hands with antibacterial soap and clean water often as you clean up your basement after a water flood.

Use a pump or a Shop Vac" to remove the flood water from your basement. Flood water that is several feet deep needs to be removed at a slow rate. Because, if the water is pumped out too fast, the action will create a low pressure on the inside of your basement. Thus, the pressure on the outside will be higher, and your basement walls can easily fall in.

Once the flood water is removed from your basement, open up the windows and doors, and set up several fans to help dry the basement out.

Continue your clean up by removing furniture, carpeting, rugs, et cetera. Then, use a scoop shovel to remove mud or debris that are left on the floor.

Some rugs and room-sized carpets can be saved by drying them out and cleaning them up. However, if the flood water in your basement contained sewage, or if they're moldy, you'll need to discard the rugs or carpets instead. After the floor coverings are dried and have been swept, you should use a commercial steam carpet cleaner and detergent to clean up any savable floor coverings. (Home carpet cleaners aren't usually powerful enough to handle the task.)

Vacuum the basement floor to remove as much water as possible. Then, mop the bare floor with household bleach and hot water. You'll also need to wash the walls as well, to kill germs and bacteria.

When you clean up your basement after a water flood, there may be some personal items you can save. Clothing can sometimes be laundered or dry cleaned. But, again, only as long as they haven't contaminated by sewage or mold.

Electronic items that were submerged in the basement flood water, or even just got water on them, should be checked by a professional repairman before they are plugged in again.

Mix up a strong solution of household bleach and hot water in a bucket to clean up any personal items you wish to keep. Wipe them dry, then allow them to set out in the sunshine to help further sanitize and deodorize them.

Paper products such as books, magazines, and photos can't usually be saved once they are damaged by flood water.

Any irreplaceable photos you'd like to save may possibly be repaired by a professional photo shop.

Original Article

Midwest Mold A Growing Problem (No Pun Intended)...

Record rainfall amounts across the Midwestern United States combined with numerous 100 degree plus days has resulted in one of the highest mold counts in recent memory.  The problem has been so bad that it has skated right up to the border of triggering an air pollution warning.

The mold count for July 27 was 30,000, just 10,000 shy of the level required to issue an air pollution notice, according to a spokesperson for the National Allergy Bureau. 

The problem is of course the record rainfall and flooding that has plagued much of the Midwest during the last couple of months.  Mold can grow anywhere there is sufficient moisture, and adding the record temps to the equation only exacerbates the problem, almost exponentially.

The biggest problem with mold is that many people do not realize they have a problem until physical symptoms become apparent.  Mold symptoms may start out as mild allergic problems such as runny nose, watery eyes, or congestion, and if the exposure is long enough or in high enough concentrations, more serious issues such as neurological and respiratory problems may result.

The National Allergy Bureau addresses the problem of mold directly, calling some homes “pure poison” for anyone with a breathing condition.  All soaked drywall must be cut out and removed as well as carpets, tile, cardboard boxes and the like to prevent mold.

One of the truly odd aspects of mold is that water is both the cause and the cure for mold problems.  Moisture provides the perfect environment for it to grow, but in order to get rid of it, the affected area must be cleaned thoroughly, and ventilation increased to cut down on moisture levels and make the area inhospitable for mold spores.  Dehumidifiers may be used to decrease humidity levels.  Ideally, the humidity in your home should be kept under 50% to avoid potential mold issues.

Black mold is easily the worst of the worst, and can cause far more serious medical conditions such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even memory loss.  People suffering from asthma or other breathing conditions are especially susceptible. 

Many people spent a lot of money to have their homes tested for mold when it isn’t really necessary.  Mold usually makes its presence well known, either visually as a fuzzy, greenish-black growth on pipes or walls, or through a noxious smell, and often through both.  If you suspect that you have a mold problem, chances are that you do.

Bear in mind that mold is the most common and dangerous after effect of water damage.  It can appear in as little as 48 hours, or sooner if the flood waters are sewage based, spread like wildfire, and prove extremely difficult to remediate.   While smaller growths may be successfully remediated by homeowners, larger growths pose an active health threat and will require professional treatment to take care of properly.

Water Damage Local.com is the one stop shop for all things water damage, including mold.  Our professional providers are IICRC certified and offer a full range of services designed to handle all of your water extraction and mold removal needs.  They are available 24/7 and can have someone to your home within an hour of your call to make a proper assessment of the problem and being the restoration process.

Don’t wait….call the pros at Water Damage Local.com today.  

Cleaning Up Basement Flooding...

Basements flooded with surface water, seepage through walls, or backflow from sewer lines often suffer little or no structural damage from the water, because the water inside braces the walls against the pressure of outside water and waterlogged soil.

How and when do I pump the water out?

Use the following instructions for draining the water:

Do not drain water inside the basement until most of the water on the outside of the walls has gone down. This will prevent the walls from being pushed in or the floors from heaving.

If you have a large amount of water in your basement or if there is no basement drain, you may need to buy or rent a sump pump to get rid of the water.

If your electrical panel is located in an area of your home that has been flooded, you will be unable to use an electric sump pump unless you use a pump driven a 12-volt auto battery. A gasoline engine pump may be used if exhaust can be vented to the outside.

Start pumping water out of your basement if the water inside is higher than the flood water level outside. You may need a measure to determine this.

Stop pumping when the two water levels become equal. Pump the basement water out at the same rate at which the flood waters recede.

How should I clean the basement?

Shovel mud from the basement as soon as all water has drained or has been pumped out to allow floors and walls to dry.

Remove silt and dirt stains by rinsing concrete walls and masonry foundation walls with a high pressure hose.

If stains remain on the walls, scrub them with a stiff bristle brush and household detergent. Begin at the top and work down. Rinse often with clear water.

Start drying the basement as quickly as possible in order to minimize wood decay or growth of mold.

Open all doors and windows to allow the moisture to flow outside.

Buy or rent a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.

If you are sensitive to mold or mildew, wear a mask or respirator containing an appropriate filter.

How do I avoid shock hazards?

Be careful before using any electric appliance in a house that has been flooded.

Never turn on wet electric appliances because they may cause an electric shock, overheat, or start a fire.

How do I get rid of odors?

If ventilation does not remove odors:

Mop concrete floor and walls with a bleach solution (3/4 cups of household bleach to a gallon of water).

Rinse and dry after 5 minutes.

Open windows when applying the bleach solution.

Place a lump of dry charcoal in an open tin/metal container to absorb odors.

You can always contact Water Damage Local.com for all your basement flooding, water repair, and restoration problems.

Aftermath - Cleaning Up After A Flood...

Having your home ravaged by a flood is bad enough, but picking up in the immediate aftermath can leave you wondering if your life will ever be the same again.  The level of damage left behind in most cases can be overwhelming and traumatizing to property owners, with dollar amounts running into hundreds of thousands of dollars.

It’s a foregone conclusion that when flooding becomes a very real threat, you need to leave your home.  You gain nothing by staying and may put your life at risk.  As nice as your home may be, it isn’t worth dying for.  Leave promptly if the evacuation order comes down and head for higher ground.

After the flood waters have receded and the all clear is given by local emergency management (or federal authorities, or whoever may be in charge), you are free to return to your home.  Make sure all power and gas to your home are shut off, since water and electricity do not mix at all and leaking gas provides its own share of problems.  You also need to verify that the structure is stable……flood waters can literally shift a home on its foundation, making it prone to collapse, so make sure it isn’t going to come down around you before re-entering.

You need to steel yourself for the amount of damage that you are going to find.  Floods will not only damage your home and possessions but they will also leave behind a lot of dirt, mud, silt, and other debris that will manage to find its way into every nook and cranny of your home.  Don’t be surprised if much of your carpet and furniture will need to be thrown out.

Of course the cleanup process needs to begin as soon as possible following a flood event.  Water damage will not get better or improve on its own.  You will need to be pro-active in making sure all residual moisture is removed from every surface, and that everything is dried out thoroughly.  Wet dry vacuum units or gas powered submersible pumps are helpful for removing water, and fans, blowers, and dehumidifiers are perfect for removing whatever is left.

All loose items such as furniture, appliances, and personal effects will need to be removed elsewhere for cleaning and reconditioning.  Documents, books, and artwork may require specialized techniques to be properly dried out and preserved.

Long term problems such as mold frequently occur in homes and businesses in the wake of flooding, and this will require professional treatment.  The mold will need to be removed and the affected area properly treated to make sure it does not return.

If all of this sounds like a lot for the average homeowner to be responsible for, don’t worry, it is.  That’s where Water Damage Local.com comes in.  Water Damage Local.com providers are available 24/7, IICRC certified, and ready to handle even the most severe water or flood damage problems.  From water removal and drying, to carpet cleaning and mold remediation, to structural repair and restoration, Water Damage Local.com is your one stop shop for all things water damage.

Flooding doesn’t have to mean the end of your home.  Call the professionals at Water Damage Local.com today.

5Water Restoration And Prevention Tips...

When people think of water damage in their home, the first things that come to mind are burst pipes and flood damage. But, these are not the only occurrences that could create a need for water  restoration. Water does not have to appear in one large onslaught to cause damage. It can also have an equally destructive effect through a slow accumulation of moisture over an lengthened period of time. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent water damage in your home.

The most likely cause of a burst pipe is from water expanding when it freezes. Where possible, you want to completely drain the water from any plumbing that is open to freezing temperatures. For example, it is important to use an air compressor to blow out your in-ground irrigation system if the system doesn’t drain automatically. You will need to make sure that you have a shutoff valve with a bleeder installed in the line inside your house. It is definitely worth the investing to take these steps, since the amount of water damage from a burst pipe is quite substantial.

When you purchased your home, you were required to obtain a document that stated whether it is located in a flood plain. So to avoid flood damage, the first precaution you can take is to make sure that your house is not located in a flood plain. To protect yourself from an unexpectedly large amount of precipitation or the effects of snow melt from an unusually snow winter, you can install a sump pump. You may want to invest in one that has some type of battery backup, as power failures occur most often during intense storms. Sump pumps will generate an ongoing cost, since they do require replacements of parts, as well as the entire unit over time. But, the cost is small compared to what you would spend on flood damage restoration.

Three other potentially large sources of water that could lead to significant water damage are your dishwasher, washing machine and water heater. The key here is to regularly inspect these appliances. Check the hoses on the dishwasher and washing machine. You may want to consider a preventative maintenance program of replacing hoses. Look for signs of leakage around the water heater. Water heaters don’t last indefinitely. Be prepared to purchase a new one approximately every 15 years. To prevent leaks from the outside, make sure that your roofing, gutters and siding are still intact. Finally, don’t forget about those little drips that can add up to a need for water damage restoration. Areas to check are your refrigerator’s water line; the caulking around your sink, shower, and tub; and your toilets.

Original Article

Anatomy Of A Go Bag...

In the wake of devastating floods that have ravaged much of the south and Midwest this year, residents in flood prone areas are being encouraged to assemble emergency kits or “go bags” in case the problem arises again in the future.   Some areas of the country saw five times the normal rainfall amount during the month of June, prompting fears of additional flooding problems.

When flooding occurs, you may not have much time to prepare.  In fact, you may only have a matter of minutes to save your life and those of your family by evacuating promptly.  When the alarm sound is not the time to begin packing up, so it is always advised to have an emergency bag ready to grab and take with you in the event that you have to leave quickly.

A typical go bag setup simply involves those items that you will need for an extended stay away from home.  You should pack changes of clothes for several days, non-perishable food items, bottled water, cash (remember that flood conditions may knock out power, rendering ATMs useless), and a battery powered radio (with extra batteries) to keep yourself informed of constantly changing weather conditions.  Of course, your personal, important documents should also be included, as well as a fully stocked first aid kit.

Your go bag should also have the phone numbers of close relatives, friends, or emergency response (police, fire) that you may need to get in touch with.  You should also bring along blankets or sleeping bags (one for each person), as well as heavy duty plastic bags to take care of waste or sanitation problems.

If this sounds like a lot for a modest little bag to grab quickly on the way out the door, it is.  But if you prepare one bag for each member of your family, you will be able to accommodate all the items listed.  Make sure every family member has a copy of their insurance information, as well as a complete list of allergies or medical reactions to any food or medications.

You don’t want to forget the four legged members of your family, so prepare a similar bag for your pets, complete with food, medications, and anything else they may require. 

If you have family members with special needs, make sure those needs are provided for in your go bag materials.  You don’t want to end up stranded somewhere and find someone in a precarious medical condition.

Water Damage Local.com is a nationwide network of IICRC certified providers who can take care of all your water damage needs.  If the situation arises where you have to make use of your go bag, then in all likelihood, you’re going to need Water Damage local.com as well. 

Our providers offer a full range of services designed to handle all of your flood damage and other water problems, large or small.  They are available 24/7 and can usually have a technician out to your home or business within the hour.  They will assess your problem and take the appropriate steps to get the water out, dry everything thoroughly, and have you back in your home as soon as possible.

Take the necessary precautions to protect yourself, and call the professionals at Water Damage Local.com to take care of the rest.

Water Damage And Basement Flooding....

One of those sinking feelings in the pit of your stomach will threaten to overwhelm you when you discover that the basement has a problem with water damage. It could be because of a long-undiscovered leak which could have been causing untold damage for a long time, or (basement flooding) could be caused by the creation of an environment that is overly humid.

In either situation you could find yourself sitting on foundations that have become structurally dangerous or there could be mold or other fungus growth taking place, breeding a potential health risk.

The basement may be damp because of moisture soaking through the foundation, it doesn’t necessarily have to have come from a leaking pipe.

The first step to repairing any water damage in the basement is to identify exactly what it is that’s causing the moisture in the first place. A leaking pipe will be the easiest contributor to identify and fix. Not so easy will be identifying that the daily activities of you and your family are causing a build up of humidity which is then collecting below the floor. The indicator that this is happening could be a mysterious recurring growth of mold or mildew.

It may be necessary to reassess how the water runs in the garden directly outside the basement. If the water is not running off away from the house it is possible that it is soaking into the ground and on into the basement through the walls. In this case it will be necessary to put in additional external drainage to move the water away from the house.

Lowering Humidity In the House

There are a number of ways to fix the humidity in your basement. Firstly, install ventilation fans in your kitchen and bathroom if they don’t already have them. These two rooms are the most humid of any other room in the house.

If ventilation is installed already, ensure it is directing the air out of the house and that it hasn’t become blocked. If you have a clothes dryer it should be vented to the outside of the house.

A poorly operating air conditioning system can fail to remove humidity which may be a contributing factor to a build up in the basement. Call a contractor to check your system to confirm it is operating properly.

If the basement becomes damp from humidity in the warmer months it may be necessary to have a dehumidifier running in the basement. It’s best to run the dehumidifier in a closed room to stop humid air from outside the house from entering the basement.

Water Damage From A Leaking Pipe

If the water damage is noticeable on the ceiling of the basement or on the walls directly below a bathroom it may indicate that the water pipes have been damaged. In this case your best course of action is to call out a plumber.

Water damage that consists of considerable mold growth can best be solved by calling a professional who specializes in mold remediation.

Naturally, the most certain way to solve a problem with water in the basement is to call out a reputable water damage restoration expert. Water restoration professionals are equipped to locate the cause of any moisture as well as being experienced in repairing damaged walls or ceilings and preventing water damage in the future.

All Jacked Up - Water Damage Insurance Claims

Most of us find our insurance premiums high enough to begin with, but with the recent record setting weather problems across the country, the pain could be intensified with even higher requirements.  The greater risk of severe weather is making itself known in the premiums we all end up paying, as evidenced by trends recorded across the United States and Canada.

Insurance companies are also cracking down on water damage claims with increased restrictions and limitations.  They have never paid out claims on overland flooding, yet rain and severe weather have overtaken fire as the number one source for homeowners insurance claims.  Agents aren’t sure why, but the increase in weather related claims is significant.

Some are attributing the increase to global warming, but for our purposes here, we will stick with the more rational schools of thought.

Evidence of an international trend exists, with more extreme weather events being seen across the globe. 

Of course increases are not across the board.  Each company determines its own premiums, as well as the criteria for raising them, meaning some people will end up paying more while others won’t see any increase at all.  Most policy adjustments are due more to improved computer technology better reflecting historical claims numbers from different areas than to recent extreme-weather events or changing climate.

Canadian insurance bureaus have been encouraging government agencies to work harder to install preventative measures and improve infrastructure, all of which can make water damage problems less severe.  

When a single hailstorm can cause upwards of $500 million in damages (as happened in Alberta, Canada earlier this year), such improvements become all that more important.

Of course when it comes to insurance, water damage can be the cause for all kinds of headaches.  Many homeowners mistakenly believe that flood damage is covered, which can make for a rude awakening in many cases.  In other instances of water damage, the problem will be covered if and only if it cannot be traced back to a case of negligence on the part of the homeowner. 

Your best bet is to have a sit down pow wow with your insurance provider now….as in today.  Go over your insurance policy step by step and verify what is and what is not covered.  If you do not have flood insurance, check to see if your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). 

When water damage does occur, don’t wait.  It will only get worse the longer it is allowed to remain untreated, and it is important to being water removal procedures straight away.  The professionals at Water Damage Local.com are available 24/7 to handle all of your water damage issues, large or small.  The staff is well trained, industry certified, with years of experience, and proficient on the latest tools and equipment designed to get all the water out and have you back in your home as soon as possible.

Water Damage local.com providers can also work directly with your insurance provider, making sure everything is covered and paid for in short order, relieving you of much in the way of additional stress.

Remember your first choice for all things water damage…..Water Damage Local.com.

Hardwood Flooring Water Removal...

When a lot of moisture has been absorbed by a hardwood floor the most common result is that the wood expands. When the boards expand they become wider and one of two things might happen, you might have a buckled floor or you may have a floor that is cupped. In either case you are left with a seriously uneven floor.

In order to restore the water damaged hardwood floor without having to pull up the entire floor and replace it you can use a process known as desiccant dehumidification. This is carried out by bringing in a desiccant dehumidifier which if very effective at reducing the humidity level in the air. The desiccant dehumidifier can be run under sealed conditions to completely remove the moisture from the area. In this case you are removing moisture from the floorboards.

Running a dehumidifier for an extended period will help to reduce the swollen floorboards and counteract the cupping or buckling that has taken place. As the moisture is drawn out of the air it will also be drawn out of the hardwood floorboards and they will shrink back to their normal size. Effectively you want the top surface of the floorboards and the bottom surface to be balanced in moisture content.

Once the floor has been properly dried and the moisture is removed from the surrounding area, the floor can be sanded back and refinished so that it is returned to its original smoothness again.

If the hardwood floor has become so buckled that it has come completely away from the subfloor to which it was attached it may be necessary to call in a hardwood floor installer to reattach the planks.

In all cases when dealing with repairing hardwood floor water damage the key to a successful restoration is to completely remove the moisture that caused the original damage in the first place. No matter how carefully you carry out your restoration, if you haven’t fixed the origin of the water the problem will return and cost you even more of both your time and money.

For all your water removal needs, contact the professionals at Water Damage Local.com.

Original Article

Mold? In Your Home? Count On It....

We’ve all seen mold in our homes and thought nothing of it.  Typically, we see it around our showers or bathtubs, and a few squirts from a store bought cleaner will usually take proper care of it.  Beyond that, we don’t give mold much thought.  This can be a serious mistake, however, since mold may be present and affecting your health long before you identify what the problem is.

And we’re talking serious mold growth, here, as in Roger Corman B-horror movie stuff, the huge growths found in basements, attics, crawlspaces, that clings to walls, piping, pretty much any available surface, and gives off a noxious smell.  Most homes have areas that are sufficiently warm and moist to allow for the growth of mold, and the problem will only get worse over time.

Mold spores are found in nature all the time.  In fact we encounter and even inhale them probably every day with no ill effect.  It is when the spores are encountered in heavy concentrations in an enclosed space (such as a basement) that they become an issue. 

In order to grow, mold needs some very simple conditions, namely moisture and a food source.  Food can encompass just about anything, including the furniture or flooring in your home.  Higher than normal humidity levels (say above 60 percent) can also contribute to the growth of mold. 

The health threats posed by mold are various, from mild reactions such as coughing, sore throat, or asthma problems, to more serious issues such as respiratory problems, neurological disorders, and lung disease. 

The best way to deal with mold is to not be in the position of having to deal with it in the first place.  There are steps you can take to be pro-active in the inspection for mold and taking preventative measures to keep it from occurring.

-         

      Look for leaks or other water related problems and repair them.

-          Maintain proper ventilation in all rooms of your home.

-          Don’t leave standing water.  Make sure it is dried up.

-          Be aware of mold odors and see if mold is undiscovered behind walls or flooring.

-          Make sure your dryers and other appliances are vented outdoors.

-          Use a dehumidifier in the home if moisture is a persistent or recurring problem.

-          Keep the home as cool as possible.  This will help cut down on humidity levels.

Smaller patches of mold may be successfully treated by the homeowner with bleach or vinegar, and carpets may be treated with baking soda.  What is important is not the destruction of the mold, but proper treatment of the affected area to make sure the mold does not return.  Reducing the level of moisture in the air and increasing ventilation is important.

Larger mold growths are dangerous and should be left to a professional for treatment.  The professionals at Water Damage Local.com are well versed in all aspects of water restoration and mold removal.  They are available 24/7 and can have a technician at your home within an hour of your call, ready to assess your mold problem and begin the water restoration process. 

Don’t put your home at risk for mold.  Call the pros at Water Damage Local.com today.

Coping With Water Damage Restoration

Dealing with a disaster such as flood damage or a house fire is a harrowing ordeal in the first place, attempting to go through the process of fire and water restoration on your own can prolong the pain. The problem is, failing to get the proper restoration experts in to clean up the fire or water damage can result in even higher costs, or worse, can result in the unnecessary loss of sentimentally valuable objects.

Metal fixtures such as door handles and faucets can suffer permanent damage if they are not properly treated as soon as possible after a fire. Calling in professionals trained to restore fire damages resulting from the effects of heat, smoke and residues from fire and smoke is very important. Often times, there is further damage that requires restoration work that has resulted from the process of attempts to put the fire out. Water damage on top of the fire damage introduces a range of new and unique complications that must also be dealt with.

In attempting to cope with the trauma of the incident ourselves the chances are that we can become easily upset and distracted which leads to accidents. A fire or water damage restoration job should be done as coolly and dispassionately as possible, preferably by someone who is not emotionally attached to the property they are attempting to restore.

Part of the process of a fire or water damage restoration involves assessing what can be salvaged and restored and what must be replaced, the most effective method of cleaning, the condition the property was in before the damage occurred and the full extent of the loss.

Services that you made need to make use of when calling on a fire damage restoration may include the removal of smoke odor, cleaning soot from electronics and/or machinery, toxic chemical detection and removal, noxious gas detection and removal and restoration of surfaces back to their original condition.

When requesting a water damage restoration you can expect a full inspection that may identify faulty construction allowing moisture into the home, poor maintenance and identification of points where humidity may be allowed to get too high. Water damage doesn’t necessarily come as a result of a natural disaster such as a flood or hurricane. Leaky pipes, poor insulation, badly installed windows or plumbing can all be to blame. A good water damage restoration expert should be able to identify the cause of the water damage, advise on the best way to prevent further damage and repair the damage already caused.

The main thing you are trying to achieve is to get some peace of mind so you are able to put the ordeal behind you. A fire water damage restoration team that is efficient and professional will help you to achieve that peace of mind quickly. A fast turnaround means the process of coping with the reality of damage to your house is over as soon as permissible.

There is quite a lot of stress surrounding any kind of disaster, particularly when you home and loved ones are involved, Fire Water Damage Restoration attempts to explain some of the options that are open to you to make things a little easier.

Original Article

Navigating The Water Damage Insurance Claim...

Many people have a grossly mistaken idea of what their homeowners insurance policy covers, specifically water damage.  They find a problem, submit it to their insurance, and are aghast when their request for aid is turned down.  For some reason, the subject of water damage within the insurance community is nebulous at best, and property owners need to take the time to find out what is covered, what isn’t, and how to best go about submitting a water damage claim that actually has a snowball’s chance of succeeding.

Firstly, water damage is simultaneously the most common claim and the most rejected claim in the insurance biz.  This is because homeowners don’t know what to look for or what constitutes “covered by insurance”.  

Simply put, water damage that is the result of a sudden catastrophic event may be covered, while damage that is the result of negligence on the part of the homeowner will not be.  The burden of proof falls on the homeowner to prove that the problem was NOT the result of negligence on their part, which can more often than not be very difficult to do.

With that tidbit safely in mind, it becomes important for homeowners to be proactive in the inspection of their homes for possible problems, little things that could grow into big ones over time.  If you discover a leak, even a small one, either repair it yourself or have it repaired.  Remember that even the smallest leak can become a lake if given enough time.

Turn off the main water supply to your home if you are going to be away for an extended period.  Leaks that occur during this time will run on unchecked and can cause serious damage to your home and possessions.

Make sure your roof isn’t leaking anywhere, and keep your gutters and downspouts clean and free of obstructions.  This is probably the number one water related insurance claim that is routinely rejected by insurance companies. 

When you find dampness in your home, locate the source and fix the problem without delay.  Make sure you know where all the stop cocks are for your various toilets, sinks, etc.  That way, if something occurs unexpectedly, you can rapidly shut off the water to keep damage to a minimum.

If you’re looking for a home, always check to see if you’re located in a flood plain or other flood prone area.  

Buy above the flood line if at all possible.  Of course this is no guarantee against a flood damage problem, however, history has a habit of establishing patterns, particularly with weather, so studying the flood history of the area you may be considering will tell you how much water you may conceivably have to deal with.

When your best efforts fail, however, that’s where Water Damage Local.com comes in.  Available 24/7/365, Water Damage Local.com is the largest water damage restoration provider in the country, with fully trained technicians proficient on the latest in equipment and procedures.  We can have someone to your home to assess the problem and begin the cleanup operations within an hour of your call.  If insurance is involved, we work with them, taking care of the billing and other details so you don’t have to. 

Water Damage Local.com, your first, best choice for all things water damage.  Call our professionals today.

Great At-Home Hobbies...

The best way to enjoy relax and unwind is to engage in a fine hobby that can keep you engaged and will also allow you unleash your creativity. It is important to find a hobby which you really enjoy and which can boost your mood as well as confidence and this way you can get relieved from unwanted tension. You will be surprised to learn that there are several hobbies which can be done from the comfort of your home which not only offers an easy opportunity for all of us but is also economical in the long run. Most of the people feel that there are not many hobbies which could be performed at home and the following tips will aid you to find relaxing hobbies at home.

1)         One of the well-established relaxing and fun hobby is to paint. Don’t be on the assumption that to enjoy painting, you need to be a professional with the brush. You can still take up painting as a hobby and all you need to start is to buy a few canvas paper sheets and based on your choice you can go for watercolor or oil paint and an easel is also needed for this purpose. Select a quiet room of your home which can be used for this purpose and you can paint whatever you like. Keep an old paint shirt for this purpose and also old rags will come handy for clearing the mess. You can also show your creativity by painting what you see on the outside and in order to learn more on the subject, you can purchase some painting by number books or how to paint books which will help you in your painting hobby.

2)         Creating a scrapbook is a good way to a fine hobby and also aids in relieving stress. Arts and crafts are a great way to let out your frustrations and scrapbooking is bound to help you in this regard. When you engage in scrapbooking, you can put together old memories of family, friends and your kids and this will help in creating a book full of events which are an important part of your life. If you are confused as to how to scrapbook, then you can purchase some of the how to books on this matter and can also check out certain online websites which will aid you in this matter.

3)         Writing stories is also a very creative hobby and reduces strain of our day to day life. Like reading, writing will aid you in escaping from tensions and stress. You can start by creating short stories or can also engage in writing simple articles. You can let out your frustrations through words which is the perfect avenue in this matter. You can add a humorous touch to your writing or can simply write about real life events through words.

4)         You can purchase a karaoke machine and can explore your voice through singing. Singing is a great way to uplift your mood and listening and singing to your favorite songs will surely help you to relax at the end of your day.

Water Removal

Mold Removal Tips...

Anyone who’s had water damage in his home or business probably knows there may be more to the story than just letting it dry naturally. If water damage isn’t dried out and treated properly, mold and mildew (a definitive guide to Black Mold) can become a big problem. If it’s your first time facing water damage from a flood, a burst pipe, or another reason, you might be at a little bit of a loss when it comes to what steps to take, how soon, and in what order.

Do-It-Yourself

Depending on the extent of the water damage, you may be able to take care of it yourself. Small water problems call for basic do-it-yourself tips, (3 must know tips for do-it-yourself mold removal) like drying out the area and using products that are specifically designed to destroy mildew. Fans directed at the wet area can help it dry quickly and efficiently. So can running the heater in the house, because it dries out the air. You can also try using a hair dryer on the area if it’s a small space, so you can dry out the carpet, baseboard, or drywall.

There are products designed for protecting an area from mold and mildew, as well, including sprays and paints. Even if you dry out the area thoroughly, you’ll still want to consider using one of those products to make sure you don’t let mold start to develop.

Repainting the area with a mold-stopping paint can be a good plan, depending on the size of the area. You can always do that, allow it to dry, and repaint over that with a color that matches the room. For very small areas, or for treating carpeting and soft furniture, there are anti-mold sprays that can be purchased and used to stop mildew growth.

Hire a Professional

If these things aren’t enough, they don’t seem to do the job, or the area is very large – such as your house getting flooded – it may be in your best interest to hire a professional restorer. A mold remediation specialist (How to Choose a Mold Remediator) can make sure that any problems are resolved before they get started, or can treat them once they develop. It’s better to catch mold problems early, but a professional can treat advanced issues, as well.

What to look for and where you should go when locating a mold remediation specialist is similar to finding any kind of worker for your home. Make sure you find someone who’s insured, and who’s properly licensed. If they make a mistake, you’ll be compensated. All reputable companies will meet these requirements.

You should also get some estimates. Just because two or three companies perform the same service doesn’t mean they all charge the same price. You don’t want to end up paying too much when you could’ve gotten the same quality for hundreds or thousands less. Ask questions of the people who you’re considering working with.

Make sure you understand the process they’ll be going through, what it means for you and your family, and whether you’ll have to stay somewhere else while the work is being done. The mold damage might’ve been a surprise, but the remediation process doesn’t have to be.

Original Article

Flood Protection In Absentia...

If you’re like me, you sometimes leave your home, get to the end of the street and think “Did I close the garage door?”  Knowing you won’t be at ease all day if you don’t check, you turn the car around and go back to verify that, yes, it is shut and your house is secure.  I’m told that women often have the same lingering questions over whether or not the iron and/or dishwasher has been deactivated.

It’s even worse when you go on vacation…..it’s a helpless feeling to be on a cruise ship in the middle of the Atlantic while simultaneously convinced that back home you left the stove on.  We are naturally protective of our domiciles and want to make sure that they are properly protected when we are away for extended periods.

Since we are in the business of water and flood damage restoration, we will focus on some tips to help prevent problems while you are away.  Of course we appreciate the business, but if we can keep you from having to call us in the first place, we know that is always the best choice.

One thing many folks don’t realize they can do is have the police watch their property.  Of course this doesn’t mean that you will have a patrol car parked out in front of your home 24 hours a day, but the police can be alerted that you will be on vacation and officers will schedule drive bys of your property to make sure everything is okay.    Make sure they have your contact number just in case there is an emergency.

Shut it all down.  Exactly what needs to be left running while you are away?  Power down all unnecessary units to conserve power and lessen the risk of an electrical problem that may result in a fire.  Of course your fridge should be left on (unless you fancy the idea to coming home to a house that smells like something crawled into your cellar and died), but other items such as computers, your cable or DVR box, TV, stereo…basically anything that can be unplugged will not only save money, but lessen the chances for an unpleasant surprise.

Many hot water heaters have a vacation setting designed to save energy.  Find it and utilize it. 

You may also want to shut off the water supply to your home for the period you are gone.  This will reduce the chances for burst pipes or toilet overflows that could make for a very messy welcome home.  It won’t wholly prevent the chance of damage, but it will cut it down a good bit.

If you do come home and find the water damage gremlins have been hard at work, contact Water Damage Local.com.  Our network of providers are well versed in all things water damage and are up to date on the latest equipment, tools, and procedures.  A technician can be at your home within the hour to assess the problem and begin the water removal process.  Water Damage Local.com provides complete water restoration services, from extraction and drying, carpet cleaning and mold removal, and even structural repair and restoration. 

Enjoy your vacation!  Oh, and when you get back and find that your home is under three feet of raw sewage, call the water restoration professionals at Water Damage Local.com!