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“Over 30 Years Providing the Reaction of Satisfaction”

Same Day Macomb County Flood Restoration Services Fast Urgent Flooded Carpet Flooring Residential Emergency Removal Sewer Repair

“Over 30 Years Providing the Reaction of Satisfaction”

Same Day Macomb County Flood Restoration Services Fast Urgent Flooded Carpet Flooring Residential Emergency Removal Sewer Repair

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“Over 30 Years Providing the Reaction of Satisfaction”

Same Day Macomb County Flood Restoration Services Fast Urgent Flooded Carpet Flooring Residential Emergency Removal Sewer Repair

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Sewage Cleanup St Clair Shores

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Removing Drywall After a Flood | When a Flood Cut is Necessary: If you are in need of drywall removal due to flood damage - Action Extraction Manages with experts care the restoration and removal of wet drywall. Contact us at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency assistance. Click here to learn more about our water damage cleanup services or Follow Us on Facebook! Trust Action Extraction for Professional RestorationWhen Removing Wet Drywall is Necessary: Water damage in your home can be devastating, especially when it affects the drywall. Knowing when to remove wet drywall is crucial to preventing further damage and ensuring a safe living environment. At Action Extraction, we specialize in comprehensive water damage restoration services, including expert removal of wet drywall. Removing drywall after a flood is crucial in certain instances to keep property free from mold damage.Here’s everything you need to know about this process and why Action Extraction is the best choice for your restoration needs.Understanding When Removing Wet Drywall is NecessaryThe Impact of Water Damage on DrywallDrywall is highly susceptible to water damage due to its absorbent nature. When exposed to moisture, it can become weakened, swell, and even support mold growth. If not addressed promptly, wet drywall can lead to structural issues and health hazards. Drywall is a cellulose material which is a favored food source for mold and needs to be serviced correctly to avoid dangers.4 Signs You Need to Remove Wet Drywall1) Visible Swelling or Warping:If your drywall appears swollen or warped, it indicates significant water absorption and damage. Drywall can absorb standing water as high as 12" in 1 hour. Trapped moisture in drywall is the #1 reason drywall acquires mold growth.2) Discoloration and Stains:Brown or yellow stains on drywall are signs of water damage that may necessitate removal. Colored spots and patches should be evaluated as mold can often appear as foreign colors. 3) Mold Growth:The presence of mold on or behind the drywall is a clear sign that removal is needed to prevent health risks. Behind drywall is a common location to find mold on drywall as these locations are absent of air circulation and UV lighting.4) Soft Spots:Pressing on the drywall and feeling soft or mushy areas indicates severe water damage that requires removal. Do not open the wall as the presence of mold growth is likely. Disrupting an active colony of mold growth is like taking a tennis racket to a hornets nest, and will send invisible mold spores everywhere.What is a Flood Cut and Why is It Necessary?The Concept of a Flood CutA flood cut involves removing a contaminated section of drywall from the floor up to a certain height—typically 12" 48" above the visible water damage line or where the presence of water height is. This technique is essential for several reasons:Preventing Mold Growth: By removing wet drywall, you eliminate a potential breeding ground for mold and mildew.Ensuring Thorough Drying: A flood cut allows for proper air circulation, which helps dry out the wall cavities and prevents further moisture retention.Assessing Hidden Damage: This method allows professionals to inspect for hidden water damage within the walls, ensuring a comprehensive restoration process. Why Choose Action Extraction for Wet Drywall Removal?Expertise and ExperienceWith over [insert number] years of experience in water damage restoration, Action Extraction has the expertise to handle all aspects of wet drywall removal and flood cuts. Our certified technicians are trained in the latest techniques to ensure effective and efficient restoration.State-of-the-Art EquipmentWe utilize advanced equipment to detect moisture levels, perform precise flood cuts, and ensure thorough drying of affected areas. Our tools and technology allow us to provide top-notch service and achieve optimal results.Comprehensive Restoration ServicesAt Action Extraction, we offer a full range of restoration services beyond wet drywall removal. From water extraction and structural drying to mold remediation and reconstruction, we handle every step of the process to restore your home to its pre-damage condition.Customer-Centric ApproachOur commitment to customer satisfaction sets us apart. We understand the stress that water damage can cause, and we work diligently to provide prompt, reliable, and compassionate service. Our goal is to make the restoration process as smooth and hassle-free as possible for you.Local ExpertiseAs a locally owned and operated company, Action Extraction understands the unique challenges of water damage in our community. We are dedicated to serving our neighbors with the highest level of care and professionalism.Contact Action Extraction TodayWhen water damage strikes, knowing when removing wet drywall is necessary can save you time, money, and stress. Trust the experts at Action Extraction to provide the professional restoration services you need. Contact...
Water Damage Repair Companies in Macomb | Your Ultimate Guide: Macomb County - Water Damage Repair CompaniesLooking for water damage repair companies in Macomb? Action Extraction is Michigan's #1 best rated contractor providing 24 hour emergency repair service - Call us at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 for affordable and efficient emergency assistance. Click here to learn more about our water damage services for basements or Follow Us on Facebook! Water Damage Repair Companies in Macomb: Your Ultimate GuideWater damage can be a homeowner's worst nightmare. Whether it's caused by flooding, leaks, or burst pipes, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Fortunately, residents of Macomb have access to several top-notch water damage repair companies ready to restore their homes. In this guide, we will delve into the best water damage repair companies in Macomb, what services they offer, and how to choose the right one for your needs.What Causes Water Damage?Water damage can result from various sources, including natural disasters, plumbing failures, or human error. Common causes include:Heavy rains and floodingBurst or leaking pipesMalfunctioning appliances (e.g., dishwashers, washing machines)Roof leaksSewer backupsUnderstanding the source of water damage is crucial in determining the extent of the repair needed and selecting the appropriate water damage repair company in Macomb.Top Water Damage Repair Companies in Macomb1. Action Extraction Restoration is Michigan's Top Rated Services Offered:Emergency water extractionStructural dryingMold remediationSewage cleanupBasement flood repairsAction Extraction Restoration Services is renowned for its rapid response time and comprehensive service. They utilize advanced equipment to ensure thorough drying and dehumidification, preventing further damage and mold growth.2. Macomb County Flood RestorationServices Offered:24/7 emergency servicesWater damage assessmentContent restorationOdor removalMacomb County Flood Restoration is a Water Damage Repair company dedicated to providing fast, efficient service. Their team of certified technicians is equipped to handle any size disaster, ensuring your home is restored to its pre-damage condition. Their professionals stand out for their holistic approach to water damage repair, including reconstruction services to repair any structural damage caused by water intrusion. Choosing the Right Water Damage Repair CompanyWhen selecting a water damage repair company in Macomb, consider the following factors:1. Certification and ExperienceEnsure the company is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Experience in handling various types of water damage is also crucial.2. Response TimeWater damage can worsen quickly, so it's essential to choose a company that offers 24/7 emergency services and can respond promptly to minimize damage.3. Comprehensive ServicesA good water damage repair company should offer a full range of services, from initial assessment and water extraction to drying, mold remediation, and reconstruction.4. Customer ReviewsCheck online reviews and testimonials to gauge the company's reputation and customer satisfaction. Reliable companies will have positive feedback and a track record of successful restorations.5. Insurance AssistanceNavigating insurance claims can be complex. Opt for a company that assists with insurance claims, ensuring you receive fair compensation for the damage.Frequently Asked Questions About Water Damage Repair in MacombHow Quickly Should I Contact a Water Damage Repair Company After a Flood?It’s crucial to contact a water damage repair company immediately after discovering water damage. Delaying can lead to mold growth and further structural damage. Most reputable companies in Macomb offer 24/7 emergency services to address such issues promptly.What Should I Do While Waiting for the Repair Team to Arrive?Turn off the water source, if possible.Disconnect electrical appliances to prevent electrical shock.Remove valuable items and documents from the affected area.Avoid walking on wet carpets to prevent further damage.How Long Does the Water Damage Repair Process Take?The duration of the repair process depends on the extent of the damage. Minor water damage may take a few days to repair, while extensive damage could require several weeks. Companies like Macomb Restoration Services and AquaRestore Pros will provide a detailed timeline after assessing the damage.Is Water Damage Repair Covered by Homeowners Insurance?Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover water damage caused by sudden and accidental incidents, such as burst pipes or appliance malfunctions. However, damage from natural flooding or neglect may not be covered. It’s best to review your policy and consult with your insurance provider.Can I Handle Water Damage Cleanup Myself?While minor water damage can sometimes be managed with DIY methods, significant water damage requires professional intervention. Experts have...
Sewage Cleanup St Clair Shores: Best Sewage Cleanup company in St Clair Shores Need sewage cleanup in St Claire Shores, Michigan, please call Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency assistance. Click here to learn more about our flooded cleanup services for basements or Follow Us on Facebook! Sewage Cleanup St Clair Shores Sewage Cleanup St Clair Shores Sewage Cleanup Companies in St. Clair, Michigan: Comprehensive Guide St. Clair, Michigan, is a picturesque city known for its serene river views and tight-knit community. However, like any city, it faces challenges related to sewage and wastewater management. When a sewage backup or spill occurs, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly and efficiently. This is where professional sewage cleanup companies come into play. In this article, we will explore the importance of sewage cleanup, the services offered by these companies, and what to look for when choosing a sewage cleanup company in St. Clair, Michigan. The Importance of Professional Sewage Cleanup Sewage cleanup is a critical service for maintaining public health and safety. Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can cause serious illnesses. Additionally, sewage spills can lead to property damage and unpleasant odors. Professional sewage cleanup companies are equipped with the necessary tools, expertise, and protective gear to handle these hazardous situations effectively. Health Risks Exposure to sewage can lead to various health issues, including: Gastrointestinal infections Respiratory problems Skin infections Hepatitis A Property Damage Sewage spills can cause significant damage to properties, including: Structural damage to buildings Contamination of personal belongings Mold growth due to moisture Services Offered by Sewage Cleanup Companies Sewage cleanup companies offer a range of services to address different aspects of sewage contamination. These services include: Emergency Response Quick response is essential in mitigating the damage caused by sewage spills. Most sewage cleanup companies offer 24/7 emergency services to address urgent situations promptly. Sewage Extraction The first step in sewage cleanup is extracting the contaminated water. This involves using specialized pumps and vacuums to remove sewage from affected areas. Cleaning and Sanitization After removing the sewage, thorough cleaning and sanitization are necessary to eliminate harmful pathogens. This process involves using industrial-grade cleaning agents and disinfectants. Odor Removal Sewage spills often leave behind persistent and unpleasant odors. Professional cleanup companies use advanced techniques and equipment to neutralize these odors effectively. Restoration Services In cases of severe damage, restoration services may be required to repair and rebuild affected areas. This can include structural repairs, replacing damaged materials, and preventing future mold growth. What to Look for in a Sewage Cleanup Company When selecting a sewage cleanup company, consider the following factors: Experience and Expertise Choose a company with a proven track record and extensive experience in handling sewage cleanup. Experienced professionals are better equipped to manage complex situations. Certifications and Insurance Ensure the company is certified and insured. Certifications from organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) indicate a commitment to industry standards. Customer Reviews Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Positive feedback and high ratings are indicators of reliable service. Response Time In emergency situations, a quick response is crucial. Opt for a company that offers 24/7 emergency services and can arrive promptly at the site. Comprehensive Services Select a company that provides a full range of services, from initial cleanup to complete restoration. This ensures a seamless process and reduces the hassle of coordinating with multiple providers. The Process of Sewage Cleanup in St Clair Shores Understanding the typical process followed by sewage cleanup companies can help you know what to expect during the cleanup and restoration phases: 1. Initial Assessment The first step involves assessing the extent of the damage and determining the source of the sewage spill. This helps in formulating an effective cleanup plan. 2. Safety Precautions Professional cleanup teams use protective gear and set up containment barriers to prevent the spread of contaminants during the cleanup process. 3. Sewage Extraction Using specialized equipment, the team extracts standing sewage and water from the affected areas. 4. Cleaning and Disinfection All contaminated surfaces and items are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected using industrial-grade cleaning agents and disinfectants. 5....
Flooded Basement Cleanup Companies in Harrison Township: Harrison Township - Flooded Basement Cleanup Companies Need flooded basement cleanup companies in Harrison Township, Michigan, please call Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency assistance. Click here to learn more about our flooded cleanup services for basements or Follow Us on Facebook! Flooded Basement Cleanup Companies in Harrison Township Flooded Basement Cleanup Companies in Harrison Township Flooded Basement Cleanup Companies in Harrison Township Flooding in a basement can be a homeowner's nightmare, causing extensive damage and creating an environment conducive to mold growth. In Harrison Township, where heavy rains and water table issues can lead to basement flooding, finding a reliable cleanup company is crucial. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about flooded basement cleanup companies in Harrison Township, helping you make an informed decision when disaster strikes. Understanding Basement Flooding Basement flooding can occur for various reasons, including heavy rainfall, broken pipes, sewer backups, and foundation issues. In Harrison Township, the proximity to bodies of water and varying weather conditions can exacerbate these problems. A flooded basement not only damages your property but can also lead to health hazards such as mold and mildew growth. Importance of Professional Cleanup While minor water issues can sometimes be handled with DIY methods, significant flooding requires professional intervention. Here’s why hiring a professional flooded basement cleanup company is essential: Expertise and Experience: Professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess the damage accurately and implement effective cleanup strategies. Advanced Equipment: Cleanup companies use specialized equipment such as industrial-grade dehumidifiers, pumps, and air movers to remove water and moisture quickly and efficiently. Preventing Mold Growth: Experts know how to properly dry and disinfect the affected area to prevent mold and mildew, which can cause serious health problems. Restoration Services: Many companies offer restoration services, helping you return your basement to its pre-flood condition. Top Flooded Basement Cleanup Companies in Harrison Township To help you find the best service providers, we have compiled a list of top flooded basement cleanup companies in Harrison Township. These companies are known for their reliability, expertise, and customer satisfaction. 1. Harrison Township Flood Experts Overview:Harrison Township Flood Experts have been serving the local community for over a decade. They specialize in water damage restoration, including flooded basement cleanup. Services Offered: Water extraction Drying and dehumidification Mold remediation Structural repairs Why Choose Them: 24/7 emergency services Highly trained technicians State-of-the-art equipment Customer Reviews:Customers praise their prompt response time and thorough service, making them a top choice in the area. 2. Rapid Response Restoration Overview:Rapid Response Restoration is known for its quick and efficient service. They handle all types of water damage, including severe basement flooding. Services Offered: Emergency water extraction Complete drying solutions Mold prevention and removal Basement waterproofing Why Choose Them: Fast response times Comprehensive restoration services Experienced and certified professionals Customer Reviews:Clients appreciate their professional approach and effective communication throughout the cleanup process. 3. Allied Restoration Services Overview:Allied Restoration Services is a full-service restoration company offering a wide range of services for water damage and flooded basements. Services Offered: Water damage assessment Advanced drying technology Odor removal and sanitation Structural repair and renovation Why Choose Them: Certified and insured technicians Free estimates and consultations Customized restoration plans Customer Reviews:Their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction have earned them a solid reputation in Harrison Township. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cleanup Company When selecting a flooded basement cleanup company, consider the following factors to ensure you choose the best service provider: Experience and Expertise: Look for companies with extensive experience and specialized training in water damage restoration. Availability: Emergencies can happen at any time, so choose a company that offers 24/7 emergency services. Reputation: Read customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the company’s reliability and quality of service. Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is licensed and insured to protect yourself from any liabilities. Comprehensive Services: Opt for a company that provides a full...
Sewage Cleanup in Warren, Michigan: SEWAGE CLEANUP IN WARREN MICHIGANIf you have a sewer backup and are in need of Michigan's #1 rated sewage cleanup company in Warren, Michigan, call Action Extraction today at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency assistance. Click here to learn more about our basement flood cleanup services or Follow Us on Facebook! Emergency Sewage Cleanup in Warren: Trusted Experts in Rapid RecoveryIs your home or business the unfortunate casualty of a sewage backup in Warren, MI? Although the frightful sight and smell inspires panic, Action Extraction can help like no other. We provide 24/7 sewage cleanup in Warren, Michigan, professional help is just a phone call away.Our IICRC certified and experienced team specializes in emergency sewage cleanup, providing the fast and reliable service you'd expect to restore your property to its pre-flood condition. With our resources and approach to scientific technology we will expertly handle even the worst situation imaginable with care and efficiency. Here's how we can help:Immediate Response to Sewage Cleanup in WarrenWe understand the urgency of an immediate response when an unexpected sewage backup manifest in your home. The eye raising event can send chills down the spine because of the potential health hazards sewage brings. Your need for sewage cleanup in Warren is a recognized emergency to our team of experts and we can be on-site in 1 hour of your call. If you need swift attention to remove water, sanitize surfaces and professional restore damaged property, we can initiate the cleanup process without delay.Detailed Cleanup and Sanitization Makes for a Safe HomeA basic cleanup does not cure the trauma of a sewage backup. The degree of contamination involved requires stringent guidelines to fully eliminate germs and odors. Because sewer backups demand thorough sanitization to eliminate harmful bacteria and contaminants, we use plant based antimicrobial agents for the best results. We also use advanced equipment and proven techniques to eliminate sewage, its biofilms on surfaces, and fully sanitize your property to ensure a safe and healthy environment for you and your loved ones.Warren Sewage Backups Need Odor RemovalSewage backups from floor drains and toilets often introduce pungent odors that can linger days after the cleanup is complete. Our team is committed to removing these offensive smells using highly effective odor removal techniques to neutralize odors and restore fresh, clean air. We place an air filtration system after the sewage cleanup to manage air quality control which removes air borne contaminates from your premises. Say goodbye to the embarrassing smells and hello to a the fresh, odor-free environment we craft with efficient skills.Preventative Measures Keep Warren Basements Sewage FreeAfter completing the sewer backup cleaning process, we take proactive measures to prevent future sewage backups and mitigate the risk of future incidents. From a detailed inspection of your plumbing system to uncover compromises and vulnerabilities. In some instances we may recommend preventative maintenance strategies such as annual snaking of the main sewer trunk. As a courtesy to each Warren customer we focus on going the extra mile to help safeguard your property against any menacing future sewage-related issues.Questions and Answers Q: How soon can you respond to a sewage cleanup emergency in Warren?A: We pride ourselves on our rapid response team that is standing ready 24/7 day or night. Warren arrival times are often less than 1 hour after your call. Q: Is sewage cleanup covered by insurance?A: Depending on what type homeowners insurance you have will determine coverage for sewage cleanup. If the cause is from a broken sewer pipe in the home, often this will be covered under the "dwelling" coverages of your property. Action Extraction is well versed in the specific circumstances that allow for insurance compensation and will assist in getting your sewer damage restoration covered. We make insurance claims a hassle free and streamlined process to get you your funds fast.Q: How long does the sewage cleanup process take?A: Our goal for day 1 is to complete all cleaning and sanitizing as well as the placement of drying equipment and the air filtration system. The extent of the damage will determine how many technicians are needed to accomplish all these essential steps on the first day. Upon our arrival we will assess the situation and provide you with a detailed timeline for the sewage cleanup completion.Q: Do I need to evacuate my home or business during sewage cleanup?A: In most cases, it is safe to remain in your home or business during sewage cleanup, because we set up containment and air management steps immediately upon our arrival. These safety precautions allow for occupants to remain in a safe environment as we clean , sanitize, restore and dry. Our experienced professionals are aware that sewage cleanup service can...
Expert Water Restoration Near Me: A Local Solution for Rapid Recovery: DO YOU NEED WATER RESTORATION NEAR ME?Expert Water Restoration Near Me: A Local Solution for Rapid RecoveryShould a water disaster strike your valued property and plunge it into a state of emergency, would you know who to call? When the clock is ticking, every moment matters, and rapid response can be the difference between success and dismal failure, where mold takes up residency in your home. Some may frantically search for “water restoration near me” in a search engine to only still wonder who to call.The shock of finding a need to search for water restoration near me can be from a failed appliance like a dishwasher that leaves you guessing if you have wet kitchen floor damage. Or it could be a worst-case incident of a sewer backup that threatens your basement with e-coli bacteria. In such conditions the damage can be overwhelming, leaving homeowners in disbelief and anxiety. But fear not – help is closer than you may imagine. With expert water restoration services near you, rapid recovery is not just a possibility, it is a promise.Why Choose Local Water Restoration Services?When searching for “water restoration near me”, you are guaranteed to find local flood damage contractors within minutes away. The water restoration industry has incrementally grown over the years and emergency services are just a call away. In the communities of Southeast Michigan in particular, one will be delighted to find there are many available to assist them in their moment of crisis.6 Reasons to Choose Local Water Damage Restoration Services1. Immediate response timeLocal water restoration services arrive faster to the disaster which translates to minimizing damages. Typically, the search for “water restoration near me”, will result in companies that can be on-site in 1 hour or less. This allows your home or business to be promptly assessed so the restoration process can start without delay.2. Familiarity with your city’s local conditionsLocal water restoration companies near you are aware of road closures, where hardware stores are located for needed supplies and the unique challenges posed by your area. This thorough knowledge allows them to tailor the water restoration services more effectively, to address your unique concerns.3. Personalized service and supportSelecting a local water restoration company means a more personalized approach to the services you are about to receive. Unlike national franchises or distant contractors, local businesses prioritize customer service and will seek to earn your trust, as they live in your community. Reputation means everything to a local restoration contractor, and their commitment to 100% customer satisfaction is something they take pride in.4. Knowledge of local regulations and requirementsWater restoration companies near you will know how to dispose of sewage without alarming the city and face you with a fine. They will also know if trash can be placed in front of your home for pickup or if its best to take it themselves.Intimate knowledge of even the small things will ensure that services being performed are in alignment with the city’s codes and standards. Knowing that your water restoration project is in capable hands allows for peace of mind a clumsy company could not manufacture.5. Continued ongoing supportCompanies that are hours away will see follow-up as a cost in time, travel, and resources. Local water restoration near me is a search that will avoid long distant business relationships that can end in disaster and unfulfilled expectations. Questions can be addressed in a phone call or text, but concerns that need to be addressed by an in-person visit may seem an annoyance, and often conveyed in a rude manner. Follow up visitation is a trademark for a local water restoration company and has proven best for homeowners searching for expert water restoration service near me.6. Supporting your local economyBy choosing local water restoration services, you are supporting small businesses. At a time in history where once beloved mom and pop businesses have become rare due to national chains, it can be rewarding to assist your fellow neighbor in providing for their family. These same local water restoration companies invest back into your community each time they purchase goods and services, helping to stimulate your local economy and fostering a sense of community pride.Faster to the Disaster | Immediate Response Minimizes DamageOne of the biggest advantages of choosing “water restoration near me services” is their ability to respond fast to an emergency. When every second matters, having a team of experts nearby ensures that help arrives without delay. Local companies such as Action Extraction of Macomb understand this urgency and have a team of 24/7 technicians on-call to spring into action at a moment's notice.Local water restoration services will be able to mobilize their resources more quickly than larger, national chains. It is...
Sewage Cleanup in Troy, Michigan: SEWAGE CLEANUP IN TROY, MICHIGAN If you are in need of a top rated sewage cleanup company in Troy, Michigan, please call Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency assistance. Click here to learn more about our basement flood cleanup services or Follow Us on Facebook! Sewage Cleanup Company in Troy, Michigan Sewage Cleanup Company in Troy, Michigan Expertise and Equipment: A professional restoration company has the expertise and specialized equipment to properly assess the extent of the damage and effectively remove excess water, dry out the affected area, and mitigate any mold or mildew growth. Quick Response Time: Water damage can cause significant harm to your property in a short amount of time. A restoration company can respond quickly to mitigate further damage and help prevent any long-term problems. Safety Concerns: Basement flooding can pose serious safety risks, such as electrical hazards or exposure to hazardous substances. A professional restoration company can ensure that the area is safe before beginning any restoration work. Insurance Claims: A reputable restoration company can help navigate the insurance claims process, ensuring that you receive the maximum coverage for the damage done to your property. In summary, hiring a restoration company can save you time, money, and stress in the event of a basement flood. They can provide expert assistance, rapid response, ensure safety, and help with insurance claims. For an experienced and trusted Troy, MI, contact Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 now! Sewage Cleanup in Troy Sewage backup incidents & cleanup in Troy, Michigan can be an issue for any homeowner or business owner, causing significant damage, health hazards, and disruption to daily life. Troy, like other Michigan areas, faces its share of challenges when it comes to sewage cleanup. However, the city has been proactive in addressing these issues, employing various strategies to mitigate the impact of such incidents and safeguard the well-being of its residents. Troy, Michigan's struggle of sewage cleanup: Troy, situated in Macomb County, Michigan, experiences its fair share of sewage backup incidents due to a combination of factors such as aging infrastructure, heavy rainfall, and increased urbanization. The city's sewer system, like many others across the country, is susceptible to overflows and blockages, leading to sewage backups into homes, businesses, and streets. Troy sewage backups without proper cleanup companies. The consequences of sewage backups are multifaceted and severe. Not only do they cause extensive property damage, including structural issues and contamination of belongings, but they also pose significant health risks. Raw sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can cause illnesses ranging from gastroenteritis to respiratory infections. Moreover, the foul odor associated with sewage backups can make affected areas uninhabitable until proper cleanup is conducted. Sewage Cleanup in Troy, MI What contributes to the cost of Sewage Cleanup in Troy, MI? Q: What contributes to the cost of sewage cleanup in Troy? A: Several factors influence the cost of sewage cleanup in Troy, MI, including the extent of the damage, the size of the affected area, the type of property, and the severity of the sewage backup. Q: How does the extent of damage affect the cost of sewage cleanup? A: The extent of damage caused by a sewage backup significantly impacts the cleanup cost. Minor incidents may only require surface cleaning and disinfection, while more severe backups that result in structural damage or contamination of belongings can entail extensive restoration efforts, driving up the overall cost. Q: Does the size of the affected area affect the cost of cleanup? A: Yes, the size of the affected area directly correlates with the cost of cleanup. Larger properties or areas with multiple rooms impacted by sewage backups require more resources, time, and manpower to clean and restore, resulting in higher cleanup costs. Q: How does the type of property influence the cost of sewage cleanup? A: The type of property, whether residential, commercial, or industrial, affects the cost of sewage cleanup. Commercial and industrial properties often have larger square footage and more complex layouts than residential homes, leading to higher cleanup costs due to increased labor and material requirements. Q: What role does the severity of the sewage backup play in determining cleanup costs? A: The severity of the sewage backup, including factors such as the volume of sewage, the duration of exposure, and the presence of hazardous materials, directly impacts cleanup costs. More severe backups that require specialized equipment, extensive decontamination measures, and professional restoration services tend to be more costly to clean up. Q: What additional expenses are...
Basement Drying | Essential Tips for a Dry and Healthy Space: DON'T LET A WET BASEMENT RUIN YOUR HOMEBasement Drying | Avoid Mold at all CostBasement drying is a critical step to keep a basement free from mold growth and materials deterioration after flood damage. Sewer’s backup, sump pumps fail, plumbing leaks and even a laundry tub overflow can overwhelm a basement with unwanted water. All such scenarios will lead to numerous destructive outcomes if basement drying does not occur.Is your basement suffering from moisture, or have you been battling elevated dampness? If so, have you experienced a recent sump pump failure that has introduced some ground water on carpets and hard surface flooring? Often in Michigan this is the #1 reason basement drying is needed. Even once basement water extraction is initiated, there may need to be basement drying service to prevent musty odors and the advancement of mold.The experts at Action Extraction flood restoration of Macomb would like to delve into some essential steps that are effective at basement drying. Whether you're dealing with recent flooding or a chronic moisture issue, basement drying may be all you need to reclaim an odor free environment once again.How to Succeed at Basement DryingBefore investing in the energy to acquire an enviable dry basement, it is helpful to recognize why basement drying is essential. Elevated moisture in a basement will affect all cellulose materials such as drywall, wood substrates, decorative moldings and even carpets. If these materials persist for days with unusually high moisture content, mold thrives in such conditions. Basement drying is simple creating an environment that is not conducive for mold growth, by bringing humidity levels under control.First Steps to Achieve a Dry Basement.Locate the Source of MoistureAll basement flooding and humidity problems are directly related to a source that you need to discover. Identifying sources of water intrusion, such as leaks, cracks, compromised drainage and drain backups are essential. There are clues that will aid such as water puddling, wet carpet, water stains on walls and smells. Water stains on ceilings can indicate water from above, stains on walls suggest outside of foundation and carpets can indicate a drain issue. When wet furniture exists, it should be temporarily removed and even discarded if there are signs of contamination.Sometimes locating the source for elevated moisture in a basement can be challenging, so here is a short checklist that may help. Be sure to inspect the following:WallsWindowsFloor cracksPipes or hoses connected to appliancesFloor drainToiletsSinksBathtubsShowersCorrecting the ProblemIf a drain is backing up, you may need it snaked out or even placed on an annual maintenance to keep functioning correctly. Sump pumps discovered that sometimes fail to engage when the float lifts, need to be changed out with a new one. Any wall cracks or foundation issues need to be sealed so leaks no longer continue. Basement drying is well within reach when repairs are made that initiated the problem.Clean the Surrounding AreaBasement drying needs to be married to cleaning and sanitizing of all affected surfaces. There could be lingering microbes, and related microorganisms needing to be eliminated., Using a cleaning agent that has a label that states it kills 99.9% of germs should be preferred over other alternatives.Water ExtractionAnytime you notice standing water on hard surface flooring or in carpets, water extraction service is recommended. In extreme cases such as a sump pump failure that floods a basement, you may benefit from a professional restoration company as they have commercial extraction systems. Assuming the amount is manageable with a shop vac and towels, be sure to remove as much as you can.Drying Out the Basement with Drying EquipmentPay special attention to porous materials that will need drying service such as drywall, insulation, decorative moldings, wood substrates and carpets. These materials are prone to retaining moisture and musty smells after water damage. If any such materials are discernably wet, they will need air movement placed on them at the very least. Where multiple materials are languishing with moisture it is recommended to also place a dehumidifier to accelerate drying for safe results.Air movers along with a placed dehumidifier should be sufficient to dry out these structures thoroughly. Consider removing and replacing any damaged materials to prevent mold growth and structural compromise.Basement Drying | The Indispensable Step for Safe RestorationIt cannot be overstated that drying out a wet basement is the most important step in assuring your property stays free of mold, mildew and other related microorganisms that can affect human health. Merely allowing it to dry out on its own by opening a window or turning on a room fan may prove dangerous. Moist and humid environments are a conducive environment for mold and basement drying is the only proven method for...
Basement Water Extraction | Essential Steps for a Safe Home: DO YOU HAVE WATER IN BASEMENT?The Importance of Basement Water ExtractionBasement water extraction is often a crucial step in the wake of flood damage in a basement. When sewers backup, drains and plumbing issue occur and water heaters fail, homeowners can find themselves contending with a myriad of challenges. The most important step to any restoration once unwanted water manifest in a basement, is the removal of the water.Time is never on your side when basements retain water after flooding. Carpets stay wet, standing water remains on hard surface flooring and finished basements can absorb moisture in building materials. Drywall can become affected with mold, wood substrates can become damaged and musty smells can infiltrate living spaces.More Than One Way to Skin the Cat of Water ExtractionBasement water extraction can be managed in different ways, from using absorbent towels and mops to highly affective truck-mount water extraction systems used by the professionals. Whichever method you choose to implement the most important thing is to just do it. When you take that 1st step to eliminate water through basement extraction, you will be immeasurably better off than allowing it to languish on its own.The removal process will play a pivotal role in the restoration process allowing for wet structures to begin drying out, which will safeguard both property and occupants from the dangerous outcomes of excess moisture.Several Hazards Basement Water Extraction Can Eliminate.When water is introduced on basement flooring, whether carpet or hard surface, it quickly migrates from one area to the next. Water will even travel beneath walls, making its entrance into additional rooms affecting everything it encounters. Basement water extraction is not merely about eliminating standing water; it involves a comprehensive approach to mitigating the potential dangers.Water damage can affect the value of your home, and equally concerning, it has the ability to affect the health of your occupants. Mold, mildew, and microorganisms can easily thrive after flooding if basement water extraction is not provided before these recognized dangers become an airborne reality. To eliminate these concerns, water removal becomes an indispensable step for property recovery.5 Benefits of Extracting Basement Water1. Protects Structures from Permanent Damage:When water comes into contact with drywall and paneling it quickly absorbs into these materials as well as the stud work, they are attached to. The more contaminated the water, the more harmful the damage that can result in these materials. If the water is from a sewer the materials may even need to be removed during the sewer backup restoration service.Water forces materials to expand with water which is an unnatural phenomenon for many materials resulting in fiber compromise, which weakens the integrity of materials. If the water has microbes and they begin to reproduce, they will soon spawn mold growth that destroys materials in the same way as rotting does. This process will weaken structural integrity throughout the flood zone.Prompt basement water extraction is your best option in preventing immediate and future structural damage that can compromise the safety, stability, and longevity of your finished basement. When materials are protected from heavy water absorption that occurs in the absence of extracting basement water, structures remain safe after flooding.2. Water Removal Prevents Mold and MildewThe presence of elevated moisture in a home is a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and germs. Sump pump failures cause flooded basements to experience such conditions where organic and fungal infestations can thrive and pose risks to human health, but also contribute to deterioration of important structures. Effective basement water extraction arrests the production of mold, preserving indoor air quality as well as preventing secondary moisture damage.All a wet property needs to proliferate harmful molds into the air is elevated humidity, stagnant air, and darkness (absence of UV light). These are the identical conditions that accompany any type of basement flooding. This equation for mold growth is broken however, when basement water extraction is provided along with structural drying.3. Removing Water Through Basement Extraction Safeguards ContentsMichigan basements often serve as an unbeatable storage space for both valuable and sentimental items. In a finished basement there will also be furniture for relaxation and electronic equipment for entertaining. These items need to stay clear from water as such contents are susceptible to water damage in the event flooding occurs.Water damage from the main floor of a property always descends to a lower level, which is why flood damage is so prevalent in Michigan basements. Water damage from a refrigerator supply line will naturally end up in the basement as well. Swift water extraction ensures heavy water presence is...
Turn Off Water While on Vacation: TURN OFF WATER! BEFORE LEAVING ON VACATIONGot Water? Most homeowners who are going on vacation give consideration to what things to pack. Leaving town for any extended time needs equal consideration of things to do with your property to keep it safe. Lock doors, turn off the lights, adjust thermostat, and perhaps have someone collect your mail. One thing most homeowners do not consider is how important it is to turn off water while on vacation to avoid a potential plumbing catastrophe. If one occurs when your home that is bad enough, but when no one is home to stop it, the potential damage is limitless.Toilets can overflow, a supply line could break, a washing machine can leak, water heaters can rupture and there is even the possibility of water damage from a refrigerator supply line. If you turn off water before leaving you will avoid all water related disasters that could result from your absence.When water is left running you may return home from a vacation to find a mess of wet flooring, ceilings leaking, and cabinets destroyed. If your trip was multiple days, you may even encounter mold growth. It is always best to shut off your water before you leave for vacation, even if it's just a weekend trip. Water lines are constantly under pressure, so it's important to release the pressure if a water heater breaks or a supply line begins to leak.This post will cover several practical suggestions that emphasize just how important it is to turn off water while on vacation. These steps will help you avoid the possibility of returning home to water damage on a property that would have otherwise remained safe.What can Happens When Water is Left Running on Vacation?When occupants normally are residing in the home, they are likely to hear or witness in a matter of minutes a plumbing issue. If a water supply line starts to leak in a bathroom or a kitchen appliance starts to pour water onto the floor, someone is going to notice. They can manage and minimize damage by simply turning off the water.However, if this same situation continued for several days without anyone home, the damage could be monumental. Leaving valuable property to the mercy of fast-moving water can be avoided by simply turning water off before leaving on vacation. Left running it will quickly migrate from one room to the next with no end in sight. Soon the water will deluge to the basement or crawlspace while elevated humidity climbs to the attic, affecting insulation.Action Extraction property restoration of Macomb has dealt with large-scale flooding for years that resulted when homeowners were on vacation. Each of these properties could have been kept safe if the residents had known the importance of turning off the water when on vacation.How Can Leaving Water on During a Vacation Damage Property?Let’s say shortly after you leave the home a small leak begins in your bathroom from the toilet supply line. This minor drip can over several days migrate throughout the main level and creep into the basement dripping down through multiple inlets. Even worse, the water that began as a drip can quickly become a spray as compromised materials get worse when water continues to travel through them. Worst case scenario, the spray advances to a completely detached supply line allowing water to run everywhere. With each hour till you return home, the flood damage is affecting the value of your home.Many properties have bad fittings, and water using appliances that are on the brink of failing. When you turn off water while on vacation you at the very least make sure if disaster strikes, someone is home to catch it.Turn off Water When on Vacation in the WinterProtecting your home from winter water damage while on vacation is critically important. Winter vacations leave your home vulnerable to extremely cold temperatures, that can easily freeze water in pipes. When water lines freeze and burst the frozen pipe may not allow water to run initially, but as soon as the temperature rises enough to thaw the ice, forceful water spray will go everywhere. Imagine this scene in your home and the devastation you would face when returning home. This can all be avoided when you turn off water before leaving on vacation.The Correct Way to Turn Off WaterLocating the main water shut off can be a clumsy endeavor if you don’t already know where it is. They are typically found in basements, crawlspaces, or plumbing proceeding from a concrete slab. In a finished basement they can be hidden, covered and difficult to access. Assuming you know where it resides, firmly grip the shut off valve and tighten it if it is a gate valve or turn it to the correct position if it is a ball valve.Once you have reached the correct position that shuts down the water, check it by opening a faucet and let water run till it completely stops. If it continues to run even after an extra attempt to tighten the valve, you may need a new main water shut off valve. This is why it is best...
Remove Musty Smells After Water Damage: STRUGGLING TO REMOVE MUSTY SMELLS?Many property owners who have experienced water damage from flooding have learned that even after the water has been removed and the property dried, numerous challenges can remain. One of the most common is a persistent musty smell that lingers and permeates their living spaces. These musty and mildewy smells may be suggestive of a hidden danger lurking in the shadows, needing to be addressed. Hidden mold growth on drywall could be discovered by an inspector and kill a sale. This is why flood damage can affect the value of your home, and why mildew smells could be telling you something. Knowing how to remove musty smells after water damage can avert the more serious issue of mold growth which is a nightmare that can be avoided.In this article, we'll explore the reasons lingering musty odors exist after water damage and provide insights into how to effectively deal with them. In some instances, you will need a professional restoration company as your ally, because they alone will have the necessary equipment and chemicals to eliminate the problem. In other cases, a do-it-yourself approach can suffice and tackle musty smells after water damage.WHAT MUSTY SMELLS ARE COMMUNICATINGWater damage in a home or business can produce mildew and musty odors when long term moisture exposure prevails on vulnerable materials such as cellulose and wood. If mold begins to develop due to excessive moisture the waste product it leaves behind is consumed by bacteria. This chemical interaction creates a form of ammonia, that in turn produces a conspicuous musty odor.Understanding why Musty Smells after Water Damage ManifestMusty odors in your home often indicate a former water damage issue may have not been fully resolved. It may mean there still exist moisture, mold growth and other dangers needing to be tended to before musty smells can be eliminated. If there are airborne mold spores that are settling on moist or wet building materials they will release into the air mycotoxins, which have that distinct musty smell no one favors. It is not recommended to ignore any lingering musty smell after water damage as it can be the needed alarm to find and remedy mold damage and respiratory issues in your home.If you have had water damage from flooding that has affected materials in your home such as carpets, flooring, drywall, and wood trim, it may be difficult to remove musty smells after water damage. Excess water can cause problems in homes when it becomes absorbed into various materials where it can cause permanent damage and mold growth. 2 COMMON STRUCTURAL MATERIALS THAT HARBOR MUSTY SMELLS AFTER WATER DAMAGECARPETS ARE VULNERABLEWater damage always begins from the bottom up and having water violate either the carpet or padding can allow for days of elevated moisture and mold growth. Musty smells after water damage from carpet is very common and often trapped moisture can remain in pad when carpets feel hand dry. The musty smell and mildew odor that off gases into the air from carpet is very offensive, leaving some to believe it is permanent. This is not always true as there are safe chemicals that professional restoration companies like Action Extraction of Macomb employ that are effective at breathing new life into musty smelling carpets.DRYWALL IS A FAVORED FOOD SOURCE FOR MOLDMold and mildew tend to grow in dark, confined, and moist spaces making drywall an ideal material for the mold growth and mildew problem. When drywall becomes wet it is wet on the surface you see as well as the hidden back side that is in a dark, confined space. Add the fact that wall cavities are spaces absent of UV lighting, and you have an ideal environment for mold growth. Wet drywall needs to be addressed and dried quickly to eliminate the potential for mold growth. If you have a musty smell after water damage, drywall may be the culprit. In situations where drywall lingered wet for more than 3-5 days it is better to remove wet drywall during flood cleanup than to dry it.PROFESSIONAL RESTORATION FOR MUSTY SMELLSIf you have experienced water damage in your home that has affected your carpet, drywall, and flooring materials and left a musty smell, you may consider contacting the professionals at Action Extraction of Macomb for a free evaluation of your home. If you feel like grappling with the issue as a noble homeowner first, here are some instructions to follow that may bring relief to musty smells after water damage.STEPS TO ELIMINATE MUSTY SMELLS AFTER WATER DAMAGEIDENTIFY THE SOURCE FOR MUSTY SMELLSThe best way to get rid of mildew and musty smells after water damage is to eliminate it at its source. This will take a visual and sense of smell investigation. Carefully evaluate the areas that were first affected by water damage or flooding. Look for signs of staining on building materials that were affected. If carpet is involved attempting to locate the area offending can sometimes be achieved...
Emergency Sewage Cleanup Service: HOW TO RESPOND SAFELY TO A SEWER BACKUP Sewage cleanup stands out as a dirty, filthy, and objectionable job. Imagine telling a teenager the sewer backed up and they are to clean up the mess. Probably wouldn’t go over well. Someone needs to act swiftly however, because the dangers that exist require emergency sewage cleanup service. This hapless situation requires immediate attention because harmful germs need to be eliminated and surfaces cleaned so bad odors wane and hopefully disappear forever. When this unthinkable, “sewer backup” first reveals itself to a homeowner, the reaction might be to bristle in disbelief. However, after a few repeated rubbing of the eyes followed by eyes-wide-open refocus, the harsh reality sets in. Next is a sense of being overwhelmed by the certainty someone’s got to clean up the mess. Thus begins the mental pendulum swing, “should I attempt to do this myself, or is getting professional help for sewage water cleanup better?” Professional Emergency Cleanup Service vs Professional Help Not all sewer backups are the same. In rare instances the water is clear and does not look as menacing as when there exist unsightly solids slithering through the water like an ophidian serpent. Then there is the confusion about what type chemicals to use and should sewage damaged carpet be restored or replaced? Also, there are the do-it-yourself doubts to consider like, will dangers such as germs and air borne contaminates continue to linger? To be candid, this article is written from the perspective of an IICRC certified professional restoration expert of over 35 years. Having seen every type of sewer backup imaginable and providing emergency sewage cleanup service countless times, they hold a unique perspective. It is the belief that emergency sewage cleanup services like surgery should be left to the professionals. For those who are dedicated to the belief their noble effort can repeat the same result as the professional, here is a guide that may help. How to clean up after a sewer backup? For the rest of you, read on. Dangers of Do-It-Yourself Emergency Sewage Cleanup Service Typically, when faced with a sewer backup, it has migrated to areas beyond the floor drain to be in direct contact with flooring like carpets, drywall, and wood trim. These absorbent materials are beyond the scope of safely restoring and need to be removed. The problem is the naked eye does not always detect if sewage has influenced the integrity of the material it has encountered. Homeowners, property management companies and handyman services are prone to spray, wipe and deodorize concluding the emergency sewage cleanup service has sufficiently been done. However, evidence often suggests they have failed miserably. In countless situations, smells linger, stains in drywall and trim begin to appear, sewer flies swarm, and mold growth eventually is found. This all indicates that the emergency sewer water service went horribly wrong because important details were overlooked. Materials believed non-affected were wet, germs lingered having been missed and mold growth developed as a result. Professional Emergency Sewage Cleanup Service The professionals at Action Extraction property restoration of Macomb regularly receive calls from homeowners who need an evaluation due to a failed do-it-yourself sewage restoration project. They notice suspicious stains, alarming smells and indicate chronic illnesses of some of the occupants in the home. Upon such evidence we have an environmental hygienist provide air sample testing, which often explains why these problems exist. Toxic molds are prevalent in the air, e-coli is being harbored in the drywall and elevated levels of contaminates are heavily wafting in the air. This was the do-it-yourself approach that on day one seemed a spectacular success. The sewage was removed, disinfectants applied, and deodorizers sprayed. What could go wrong? Well, a lot! Knowledge is Power When Providing Emergency Sewage Cleanup Service Understanding the nuances of sewage cleanup is crucial for successful property recovery. The environment that exists is a biohazard that has placed the property in a state of emergency where every minute counts. Moving forward requires the individuals doing the cleanup to be educated, have the correct tools and chemicals as well as the specialty equipment to guarantee success. Tools like a truck-mount cleaning system that can utilize steam and extraction to loosen and remove solids and germs. Moisture detection meters to identify materials that have become affected and knowledge in the protocol for high-risk cleanup. This education requires credentials that can only come from taking courses in the water damage restoration industry and passing an exam. These advantages are only found in hiring IICRC certified professionals who know effective strategies and how to manage air quality control. These individuals have experience, resources, and...
Preventing Winter Water Damage To Your Home: WINTER WATER DAMAGE CAN DEVASTATE YOUR HOMEMichigan residents know just how unpredictable winters can be and how dropping temperatures can cause a series of damaging affects to their homes and businesses. Preventing winter water damage to your home can save you thousands in repairs cost and keep your home free from the harm that unpredictable temperature changes can bring. Action Extraction flood restoration of Michigan has seen a wide array of destructive winters over the last 35 years and hopes to share some helpful information that may spare you the grief of a winter water damage nightmare. Water damage restoration in Washington Twp. was greatly affected by the winter of 2012 costing millions in property damage from freezing.TEMPERATURE DROPS CAN CAUSE NIGHTMARES Michigan winters can have a day that goes from above freezing to below 32° or lower in several hours. The sudden drop can cause copper water pipes to freeze, swell and burst allowing a force of unabated water to fully inundate the main floor of your home. If not caught and managed in a few minutes the running water will deluge below to a basement or crawlspace. Flooring such as carpet and laminate do not fare well when exposed to the presence of water, often becoming permenently damaged. Wet drywall, wood trim and cabinetry will equally be in a state of ruin. Additionally these materials are made from cellulose the prefered food source for mold growth. Every Michigan home is at risk for winter water damage from freezing temperatures, thawing snow and ice jams if measures are not taken to prevent it. Don't let your home or business suffer needlessly from winter water damage when there are things that can be done that do not require a great expenditure of time or money.In this article, we hope to acquaint the reader with important tips that can keep your valued property safe, strong and fortified this winter. Flood damage can affect the value of your home from minor cosmetic damages to full blown structural and mold damage.5 WAYS WINTER WATER DAMAGE CAN DAMAGE YOUR HOME1. Frozen PipesWhen the temperature falls to 32ºF or below, any of your plumbing that is not fortified with insulation or warmer air will freeze. Insurance claims skyrocket during the winter months because pipes are not kept safe from freezing temperatures. When water in a pipe drops to a temperature allowing for phase shift (going from liquid to solid) that solid known as ice immediattely swells the interior of the pipe making it crack and burst open. Innitially you may not notice this because ice is preventing the water from spraying everywhere. As soon as temperatures increase and water phase shifts to liquid, flooding begins.Unabated running water introduces the property to extreme damage that will require professional restoration in most instances, due to the gravity of damage. The good news is homeowners insurance typically covers this type of damage assuming you were paying for utilities to keep your property heated during the winter.WINTERIZING PIPES can prevent winter water damage to your home when temperatures drop suddenly. If you have a basement where water pipes are near exterior walls or basement windows, make sure there is heat that allows for temperatures above 55° all winter long. Even then your not safe if cold drafts are dirrectly coming into contact with water pipes. These need additional sources of help such as water pipe insulating tubing that can be purchased at your local hardware store.SHUTTING OFF & DRAINING water lines not used during winter months is essential to keep these type lines from freezing. This would include exterior water spigots, underground sprinkler systems and swimming pool lines. The addition of a water insulating shroud over outside water recepticles can give added protection that can help prevent winter water damage to your home.2. Added Stress To Water HeaterWater heater placement in most homes and businesses is in a utility room often located in basements. Basements will experience lower temperatures during the winter months making the window of temperature change from lower to hotter increased. Metals expand and contract with heat changes placing water heaters at levels of added stress. While most newer systems will fare better than older, each will experience an increase in output loads that may cause leaking. Older units will have measurable sediment at the bottom which will absorbe the heat placing extra work on the heating system to keep up with the demand for hot water. Flooding from a water heater is rare but chances of this happening increase during the colder months. Is there a way to prevent winter water damage to your home from a faulty water heater? Yes!ROUTINE INSPECTION by checking the area the water heater is placed in for signs of leaking. Water drops on the top or by plumbing fittings or water stains on the floor can be evidence of an issue about to become worse. Regularly inspecting the...
Flood Damage Can Affect The Value Of Your Home: FLOOD DAMAGE CAN AFFECT PROPERTY VALUE Have you put your home on the market? Even in a seller's market, selling your house can be difficult if there is unresolved flood damage. In the US, prospective buyers are often disappointed by their inspections because experienced inspectors discover many reasons to reconsider the purchase. Water damage is one of the most common problems that can hinder the sale of a house. All it takes is standing water, mold in an attic or rotted boards to make a buyer lose interest. The fear of unanticipated and potentially expensive repairs can instantly devalue your house. Here's how flood damage affects the value of a home. If you find evidence of flooding, whether it is subtle or obvious, this can make negotiations difficult and even impossible. The buyers can now use this as a bargaining tool if they don't break an ankle while running away. Who wants to pay full-price only to discover that thousands of dollars in repairs are waiting for them? A dream home can quickly become a house of horrors. You should consider how flood damage could affect the value your home if you have had moisture problems or a sump pump failure that caused a flooded basement. You could get a rude shock during the initial property inspection that prospective buyers may have hired. Do You Need to Disclose Flood Damage? Most sellers, when deciding whether to disclose property damage, will focus on catastrophic issues such as basement flooding or roof leaks which have affected walls and ceilings. They don't consider subtle problems because they haven't experienced them. Flood damage can be a major problem, but there are also other types of damage that could affect the value of your home and ability to sell it. What Minor Water Damage Can Do To Your Home's Value The little issues you ignore in your home that are related to flood damage could become the "big" things one day. Damage from water is often overlooked, but it can have a big impact on the value of your home. Here's how water damage affects the value of your house. It is hard to detect the evidence of a slow leak in your bathroom faucet that went on for months before you called a plumber. The property inspector will likely discover evidences of that problem, even if you don't. The evidence of a defaced backsplash in the kitchen leads to a deeper inspection that identifies surface mold. A sump pump failure that only affected one wall left behind a warped base molding that gives the impression the entire basement flooded. Water damaged paneling along a section of basement wall, and suddenly an interested buyer is eager to move on to the next home. Buyers who were once so excited are now confronted with a problem that could make them walk, if not run. Questions like a raging wind howl. How much mold is there? Are there any dangerous toxic molds? Are elevated mold spore levels in the air? Will my family be safe? If any flood damage is noticed in the basement, immediately questions such as, did the water come from a water heater, or was it a backed up sewer? It is important to know the source of water, as this will affect the value of your house. Particularly if another attractive house in an equally desirable neighborhood has no suspicious damage. Here are Some Subtle Flood Damage Scenarios that may Affect the Value of Your Property. WATER STAINS ON WALLS & CEILINGS: If you had a roof leak, ceilings can have visible water stains. Walls will equally appear unappealing with unsightly water stains. Buyers may be scared and think that expensive repairs are required to remedy the stains. They may even wonder if mold is behind the staining. Carpets with visible stains or carpets that smell bad are evidences of previous flood damage that can affect the value of your home. The wood sub-flooring beneath may be structurally compromised, or mold may be present. Water damage can be manifest in subtle ways. If they estimate that new carpets will cost $5,000, they may be tempted to reduce their initial bid by that amount. This way they won't spend more than the home is worth. ROTTED BATHROOM FLOORING: If you have had multiple overflows of the sink, toilet or tub, then there is likely signs of flood damage present. Water stains, or even mold, may be visible on the vanity cabinet's face or side panels. These things can make buyers wonder how often flood damage has occurred, and if it was toilet waste water and smells are present, you will learn quickly how flood damage can impact the value of your house. KITCHEN HARDWOOD FLOORS WITH BUCKLING: Buckled wood flooring can decrease the value of your home. All it takes is a dish washer malfunction, water damage from a refrigerator supply line, or a sink overflow. Often it is difficult to know if you have a wet kitchen floor till it's too late. It is recommended to repair any flood-damaged wood...
Sump Pump Failures: Cause Flooded Basements: DO YOU HAVE A SUMP PUMP FAILURE?Sump Pump Failure: Causes and How to Prevent Flooded BasementsSometimes one may encounter a moment of envy when a neighbor parks a new expensive sports car in their driveway or puts in an underground pool. No one, however, envies the neighbor that has a flooded basement from a sump pump failure. But one may ask themselves, “is my basement safe from a failed sump pump?” The fact is sump pump failures occur regularly, leaving basements at the mercy of rising ground water. If it’s caught in time great, the impending flood damage can be avoided, if not, surprise!A working sump pump is vital to the safe management of ground water around the base of a home or business. This is especially true for those living in areas prone to heavy rainfall, flooding and/or have a creek nearby. The sump pump is necessary in the role of preventing water damage, basement flooding, and maintaining a controlled ground water level. These pumps, however, like anything mechanical, are prone to failure from wear, malfunctions, and power outages. If sump pump failure occurs during heavy rains, your home’s basement will be left vulnerable to flooding.In this post, we will explore several common causes of sump pump failures and provide valuable insights to prevent an emergency water damage disaster. While there are several common causes for basement flooding, the #1 reason is a failed sump pump.Understanding a Sump Pumps Role in Preventing Basement FloodingWhat is a Sump Pump?Many Michigan basements rely on a functioning sump pump located at the lowest part in a basement or crawlspace. They are placed in a pit (called a sump pump pit) that will show how high the exterior ground water level is. Around any properties exterior foundation there is the presence of ground water, often at different heights. As this water table reaches higher levels through rain it needs to be controlled so it does not come in the home and causes water damage. The pit will fill up higher with water in direct proportion to the exterior ground water. Once it reaches a certain point the float of the sump pump will engage allowing for the water to be pumped away from the home’s foundation.In some older communities of Macomb Township and Oakland Township there is no need for a sump pump, as the groundwater is directly into the sanitary. Cities like the Grosse Points, Huntington Woods, Warren, and others, were developed without the need for a sump pump so basement flooding for them is generally related to sewer drain issues.Importance of Sump PumpsSump pumps are to a home what gutters are to a roof. Their absence will allow water free access to any vulnerable point in the home. Water from roofs if not controlled by gutters can come in through windows, door walls, and cracks in brick joints. Nonfunctioning sump pumps will allow water in through the sump pit, floor drains as well as the floor joint between the basements concrete slab and exterior concrete wall.Sump pump failures are responsible for almost all basement flooding in Southeast Michigan and have caused more water damage to property than any other one cause. Plumbing issues, sink and toilet overflows, frozen pipes and even appliance malfunctions cannot compete for the top position, held by sump pump failure.To be clear, sump pumps are great at preventing basement flooding, have a skilled design and a proven track record for success. They work behind the scenes, are seldom heard and they provide peace of mind to homeowners, knowing that excess water is promptly removed during heavy rain or snowmelt.However, not all are created the same and all will age and fail at some point. When they do, it will wreak havoc in a finished basement and lead to devastating water damage. If not mitigated quickly and correctly the damages can include mold growth and structural damage.Common Causes of Sump Pump FailuresPower Loss from Outages & Electrical IssuesOne of the most common reasons for sump pump failures is a power outage, from down powerlines. These outages increase greatly in times of storm related damage from bad weather. Each year in Metro Detroit there are a string of outages that take place each year and some for multiple days. During these stressful hours many homeowners are sweeting it out as basements can flood quickly without a sump pump to control the ground water.In 2022 many Shelby Township and Macomb Township homes experienced basement flooding until the power outages were resolved several days later. By then the damage was done. Carpets were ruined drywall saturated, valued contents water damaged and property left in dire need of restoration and cleanup.We at Action Extraction Restoration were inundated with calls from frantic property owners needing help to restore their flooded basements and remediate mold issue that resulted from their failed sump pumps during the power outage.Faulty & Incorrect InstallationJust because someone holds the...
Why Professional Flood Restoration Service is Better than Doing it Yourself: DO YOU HAVE FLOOD DAMAGE?Consider Professional Flood Restoration Service After flood damage, homeowners are often left with the daunting task of cleaning up the mess, often in dangerous surroundings. Filthy water, fallen wet drywall, slippery floors and potential electrical hazards do not make for a walk in the park. While most will understand things are dire and a matter for the professionals, some industrious types rise to the challenge. This article will discuss why professional flood restoration service is better than doing it yourself.There is only one logical reason one would elect to engage in a battle that requires time, exhaustive effort, and several days of recuperation. MONEY! The DIU approach seems cost effective at first glance and the laborious nature of the job required is easier to recover from than the cost for professional flood damage restoration. Makes sense until you project this same logic to other fields.Save on an electrician by wiring new switches and electrical outlets yourself. Avoid the cost for a doctor’s visit by googling symptoms to generate a diagnosis. The list could go on, but I think the point is valid, that some things are best left to the professionals. When flooding manifests in a property it often leaves it in a state of emergency, where every moment matters. Every hour things are increasingly becoming more severe. Structures become more compromised, materials continue to lose integrity and mold growth becomes more likely. Professional flood restoration service is better than doing it yourself because experience makes a difference.9 Reasons to Consider Professional Flood Cleanup1. Emergency Response to Reduce DamagesWhen sewers backup or water pipes break the resulting damage can make unbearable living conditions in your home. Water like fire is a destructive energy that is slowly doing continued damage to your property till it is removed. One of the reasons to consider professional flood restoration service over the DIY consideration is time. They have the resources to start the cleanup process as emergencies happen.Most professional flood restoration services are provided as a 24/7 service and need to be. Flooding and water damage are known to occur at the worst of times needing quick attention to resolve. Emergency water removal, contents management, demolition and structural drying is best begun sooner than later. Sooner means the destructive energy of water is being stopped, later means it continues, till it is stopped.The professionals at Action Extraction of Macomb Michigan have a team of dedicated experts that move quickly when contacted for emergency service. Such calls can come in on holidays, weekends and after hours, and all responded to with swiftness and care.Time is of the essence. Hiring a professional flood restoration company will help kickstart the needed remediation process. Skilled technicians that respond immediately will be able to extract water, clean, sanitize and dry your property in minutes of your call for help. This alone makes professional flood restoration service better than doing It yourself2. Experience: Professional Flood Restorers Have Seen it all.Professionals have knowledge in the field of flood cleanup which will uncover hidden hazards that only they can identify and eliminate. The average property owner will make decisions that rely solely on the naked eye. If they see standing water and other conspicuous intrusions, they will address only that. Moisture in drywall, base moldings and even cabinetry may go unnoticed. These building materials are at risk for mold damage and structural compromise.Professionals who specialize in flood restoration have the expertise to uncover trapped moisture that leads to the larger problems. They will determine with great efficiency the best protocol for rapid and safe property recovery. They will know if water damaged paneling can be restored or replaced, and what to expect from their water damage cleanup.The flood restoration process is time sensitive, as each hour the presence of water languishes the more damage is being done. Moisture and water always lead to some form of secondary damage, such as mold, and will also cause structural compromise to property. Professional flood restoration service is better than doing it yourself, because the experience the professionals bring can assure that secondary damages are eliminated.3. Equipment: Professionals Have Resources & Equipment to do the Job CorrectWhen flooding occurs whether in a basement or main floor of a property much needs to be done. Flood damage restoration is a complex process that requires expert skills and specialty equipment to facilitate correctly. Professionals roll up in the driveway fully stocked with the machinery to succeed. Truck-mount water extraction systems to remove all standing water. Water pumps when basement flooding is extreme and deep. Moisture detection instruments to guide the prosses and...
6 Things we Learn About Water Damage From the Flood of Noah: LEARN ABOUT WATER DAMAGE FROM NOAH'S FLOOD. Point #4 will blow your mind!What can we Learn about Water Damage from the Flood of Noah?Almost everyone is familiar with the biblical story of Noah's flood. It has stood the test of time and remained as one of the most enduring stories in human history. It is a Sunday school favorite for teaching children lessons on living morally in a secular world. Not only are there character lessons parents find valuable in the story, but there are also some strikingly interesting things we learn about water damage from the flood of Noah.That’s correct! Skeptics beware; as this article will identify facts about water damage, flooding, and its needed mitigation for humans to achieve order and get back to life as usual once again. All found in the Bible, and several facts long before modern science fully understood how such details related to water damage and its needed mitigation.While the flood of Noah is often regarded as a religious narrative, I hope to uncover some valuable insights into the destructive effects of water damage found in its story. We will explore preparedness, prevention, methods for mitigation, and all with the hope that bringing out new insights may breathe new interest into an ancient story.4 Things we Learn about Water Damage from the Flood of NoahThe Power of Water Damage:The scriptures make it clear that the flood of Noah was an inimitable onetime event, never seen before on earth. Water from torrential rains, deep springs rising from earthquakes and active volcanoes spuing their fury, the earth experienced a cataclysmic event that covered the entire face of the earth with water.This emphasizes the immense power of water and its capacity to cause widespread destruction. It reminds us of the need to understand the potential consequences of water damage in the home, commercial structure, or business. Unexpected water can come furiously and rush into a property and inundate multiple rooms at any time. No property is immune to a sewage backup from a floor drain, a broken plumbing fixture, water pipe or even a malfunctioning appliance like a washing machine or dish washer.Anyone who has come home to a flooded basement after a few days away on vacation or even after a day of work, knows of the power of water damage. Residential water damage is one of the most common insurance claims made each year in the US. Understanding the immense power of water damage can inspire property owners to take preventative actions that can greatly reduce damage to their home or business. We will explore some preventative tips in this article that are proven to help limit the power of water damage.Following Good Advice Can Mitigate the Destruction of Water DamageThe scripture says, “Noah did everything just as God commanded.” Just as he followed good instructions from one that had superior knowledge, it is a reasonable proposition that property owners can benefit by listening to a professional water restoration company’s, tips on prevention. There are tips that if adhered to can mitigate the effects of water damage and limit its impact on your home. Here are several tips from the professionals at Action Extraction restoration that can prevent a water damage emergency in your home. These tips can save you time, money, headache and most importantly, reduce damage to your home.Annually tighten water hoses and fittings to prevent leaksMake sure your insurance policy covers backups of sewers and sump pump failuresClean gutters and make sure downspouts point away from the homeWatch your water bill for unusual increases in usage.Know where the water main is located & how to shut it offInstall a water alarm by floor drains and sump pump areaCareful adherence to trusted guidance is just one of the lessons we learn about water damage from the flood of Noah. Just as he and his family followed sound directions given them, so too should you consider the proven council from the professionals in the water restoration business.Build a Resilient ARK (Home)Noah's ark is an example of a vessel built for endurance having a resilient infrastructure. It was designed to withstand the greatest flood on earth, and other potential hazards related to floating and navigating fierce waves. If it had structural compromise of any type, it may have fractured and scuttled to the depths, but it did not!Your home cost you a lot no doubt, even if you got it for the deal of the century. The present housing atmosphere is a sellers’ market where over bidding by 10 and even 20K is common. When you invest in a home, you need to make sure its infrastructure is hefty, not flimsy. All it takes is a ruptured supply line, toilet overflow or washing machine malfunction to create a water damage nightmare of monumental proportion. When this happens and you afterward learn the damages were preventable for pocket change, you will kick yourself. Well, no need for self-affliction yet, unless you...
Should Flood Damaged Carpet Be Restored: DO YOU HAVE FLOOD DAMAGED CARPET?Understanding the Risk of Keeping Flood Damaged CarpetHas your carpet recently become damaged from flooding? More than 51% of homes in the US have carpet and if they get wet they can often become highly unsanitary. If you recently had water from a floor drain, sink overflow or plumbing issue reach your carpet, you might contemplate on what steps to take to restore it. That is the purpose of this article, to give industry advice to help answer the question, should flood damaged carpet be restored or replaced?Understanding the 3 different Types of WaterBefore you consider restoring flood damaged carpet it is critical to first learn, what type of water has reached it. There are times when carpet can be restored, saving you money on replacement. There are other times when carpet must be replaced because of permanent damage and potential health risks. Lets turn our attention to the prospect of restoring flood damaged carpet, by understanding the 3 types of water that gain access to floor coverings. Type 1. Fresh water that comes from plumbing lines. This is water we drink, bath and clean with. We pay for it and is considered a part of our home. It gains access to carpets when water pipes break, sinks and tubs overflow and appliances malfunction. Type 2. Ground water from around our homes. This water has molds and microorganisms that can bring an eco-system into the home and rapidly fuel the growth of mold. This water infiltrates properties when sump pumps fail and foundations acquire cracks allowing water to seep in.Type 3. Water that originates from grossly unsanitary sources with potentially pathogenic (causing illness) organisms. Sewage backups, water from lakes and streams and toilet overflows all are considered type 3 water. This type of water destroys carpet and requires sewer backup restoration of all affected surfaces and materials.Understanding these 3 types of water and their potential for destruction, allows us to intelligently move forward. Any time carpet is affected by type 3 water, it must be completely discarded along with the pad and tack-less strip. This flooring is replete with germs, bacteria, e-coli and potentially 81 viruses. When questioning, should water damaged carpet be restored or replaced? The answer is always replace, when type 3 water is present.“No you can’t disinfect, seal or cover the dangers, removal is the only safe option”.How Long Carpet Remains Wet MattersCarpet that has just become wet is different than carpet that has languished in water for 2 days. Time carpet remains wet becomes a factor when determining if flood damaged carpet can be restored or not. Each hour a carpet remains wet increases the amount of contamination, making bad go to worse quickly. THE FORMULA TO DETERMINE CARPET RESTORATION POTENTIALOnce type 1 water reaches carpet, it becomes type 2 in 72 hours. That is the standard to apply to any type of wet carpet condition, 72 hours. In 72 hours or 3 days the water type automatically transitions to the next type. For instance: water damaged carpet from type 1 water is in a state of potential restoration for 144 hours or 6 days. Anything beyond this times makes flood damaged carpet, type 3 and must be replaced.Carpet wet from type 2 water will become a type 3 water condition in 3 days. All wet carpet from a water source considered type 3, is contaminated beyond the scope of saving. This state of damage makes the flooring materials dangerous to the indoor environment. The carpet will always off gas mycotoxins and potentially other hazards such as mold spores. Removal and replacement is the only option. Along with the removal of damaged carpet, you must also remove any pad and tack-less strip. SIGNS FLOOD DAMAGED CARPET IS BEYOND RESTORATIONWhen you need to Replace Flood Damaged Carpet If you were gone several days and came home to a flooded basement or wet main floor, you will not know how long carpet has been wet. There are several sings that identify carpets are beyond restoration and need to be removed as soon as possible. If you notice any one of these, replacement is the only safe option.♣ WHEN WATER FOOTPRINT IS LARGE: Obviously, the more water that has saturated the carpet, carpet pad, flooring and subflooring, makes a difference. Finding a small area of flood damaged carpet by a slow sink leak is not nearly as troubling as finding entire rooms under water. In cases where entire rooms are wet and water is everywhere, you have grand scale flood damage. In these situations saving the carpet is difficult, and if you are not sure how long the mess has been there, replacement is the safest option. If the conditions are bad such as a completely flooded basement, you may consider getting professional help for water damage, so you don’t get mold. ♣ STRONG PUNGENT SMELL: If the first thing you noticed when you walked into your home is an offensive odor, the carpet is shot. The question...
7 Reasons To Consider Flood Damage Services For Your Home: WEATHERING THE STORM OF FLOOD DAMAGEThe Chaos of Hearing your Home is FloodedExperiencing flood damage in your home is about as unsettling as a coworker telling you your newly leased car was just hit in the parking lot. As you walk out to inspect the damage your mind is reeling with questions like, how bad is it? and what will it cost to repair? This same scenario occurs when a family member calls and says, “I just walked downstairs, and the basement is flooded.” Questions as to severity and method of recovery begin to occupy one’s mind. You know flood damage services are needed, but until you see it, you may be undecided as to who will do the work.If the water damage is not so bad, you may consider the do-it-yourself approach using a shop vac and fan. But if you walk in on a full-blown flooded basement, there are good reasons to consider services for flood damage from a professional restoration company.If you are collecting your thoughts as to what actions are best for your flood damaged property, we have some tips. Here are 7 reasons to consider flood damage services for your home, from the professionals. There is no substitute for peace of mind and a mold-free home, especially when children or the elderly are involved.7 Reasons to Consider Flood Damage Services for Your HomeFLOOD DAMAGE COMPANIES HAVE SPECIALTY EQUIPMENTMany industrious individuals’ own tools for household and auto repairs, but owning the correct equipment for flood damage services; probably not. Professional restoration firms have truck-mount extraction systems for rapid water removal from carpets and hard surfaces. These surfaces also requires safe products to kill germs and microbes that amplify quickly in a flooded home.Professional restoration companies have commercial air movers designed to dry structures rapidly. They possess different types of air movers for the different challenges, flood damaged properties can bring. There are some designed for channeling air underneath a carpet to dry wet pad, and others for drying wet materials such as wet drywall and flooring.There are even power differences between air movers due to the unique challenges of drying stubborn and more saturated materials. Concrete and ceramic tile will require 1 horsepower system to create static air force for dense and less-porous materials. Still others can be less powerful to manufacture just enough air to restore wet paneling that was affected during a basement flood. This vast inventory of various air movers makes all the difference in the world. The difference between restoration and replacement, the difference between safe drying and mold growth, from faulty drying.Then there is the considerably important process of dehumidification to remove humidity from the air. All flood damage services require management of elevated levels of humidity which is actually airborne water vapor. When the correct amount of dehumidification is addressed, quick and efficient drying can take place. Mold growth thrives in a moisture rich environment where carpets, padding and even walls may be wet. The professionals will make sure all these affected surfaces are fully dried, sanitized and restored.FLOOD RESTORATION COMPANIES SPECIALIZE IN INSURANCE CLAIMSWhen homes and businesses experience damage from flooding there is an insurance claim placed for the restoration and repairs. Navigating a flood damage claim can be like someone color-blind attempting to solve a rubio cube. The professional damage flood companies deal with insurance carriers every week and are familiar with the claims process. It is second nature to them as they have traversed this familiar terrain many times. Often, they will even personally know individual adjusters having worked closely with them in the past. This degree of earned respect and trust can help with a smooth and headache-free claims experience.They will also know the necessary documentation to provide to your insurance carrier that will help speed the process. Correct picture taking, moisture mapping and a well-crafted scope of damage explanation can make the process move swiftly. This benefit alone makes getting professional help for water damage restoration worth it.The billing for flood damage restoration services must be billed correctly before your carrier approves payment. Here again, when flood damage services are provided by professionals, you benefit because they have the same software as your insurance company. This eliminates any confusion about services rendered and because both parties are using the same billing software, there is an agreed pricing guarantee.RESTORATION COMPANIES HAVE EXPERIENCE & EXPERTISEThere are dangers if you do not know trapped moisture needing attention is lurking in a wall. Left unattended can lead to mold growth that ultimately could affect the health of loved ones. Hiring a professional service provider means you are inviting individuals to help that have experience. Like...
Can Wet Carpet Pad be Restored after Flood Damage: CAN WET PAD BE REUSED AFTER WATER GETS TO IT?Guidelines on wet carpet Pad Restoration & RemovalOften in finished basements water from a floor drain, sump well or foundation crack will get to a section of carpet and pad. The obvious concerns is can wet carpet pad be restored after flood damage? This article seeks to answer this question by providing objective guidance that comes from the IICRC Standard & Reference guide S-500 publication for water damage restoration. These instructions will allow you to implement the same practices, a certified restoration company would.The property restoration industry appeals to authoritative literature crafted by these industry specialist, that help keep homes safe from health related concerns. Wet carpet pad is one of those materials known to lead to a wide range of problems, if not managed correctly. There are issues with permanent pungent smells, water staining that wicks into the carpet itself and the dreaded development of mold growth. 2 Types of Water Requiring Padding Removal Everyone knows when carpet pad gets wet after a flooding issue there is an unnatural environment needing a remedy. There are 2 types of water that always require removal of wet pad, because the level of contamination is great. Water from a ground water source and water from a sanitary system.1. WATER FROM A GROUND WATER SOURCEGround water is teaming with microorganisms, germs, microbes and a host of other harmful chemicals and organic compounds. This water is alive with an eco system that is eager to take residency beneath your carpet where once wet padding resided. After ground water is absorbed into padding, it is beyond the scope of restoration as it will always be a potential health risk to humans. The answer must be an emphatic YES! when questioning, "Is carpet padding ruined if it gets wet? when it is from ground water.2. WATER FROM A SEWAGE SOURCEThis type of water comes into homes from sewer floor drains, sewers, toilet bowl overflows, broken sewer lines and backups. The high degree of contamination makes the condition of the home uninhabitable, until remediation efforts have been made to assure safety. Sewage is the worse-case-scenario a home can experience when it comes to flood damage. In such conditions it is wise to examine the benefits of professional sewer backup restorationNot only does the wet carpet pad need to be removed after this type flood damage, but the carpet as well. These materials have become unsanitary beyond the scope of restoring safety and must be completely removed from the property. The sub-floor in many cases will need to be replaced if it is plywood and even concrete will require disinfecting and drying service.FACTORS THAT DETERMINE IF RESTORATION IS AN OPTIONCarpet Pad Usefulness after FloodingTypically it is best to remove wet pad once it gets wet, but there is an exception to the rule. Only if all these these relevant circumstances exist at once should wet carpet pad be considered for restoration.MINIMAL SIZE AREA IS WET. This is an area of wet pad less than maybe 50 sq. ft. This area is capable of being safety restored with ample air movement, aided by a small dehumidifier. In situations such as complete rooms being saturated it is recommended to consult a professional restoration firm so you don't end up with a mold damaged environment. WATER SOURCE IF FRESH MUNICIPLE WATER. This means the water came from a pure source such as a plumbing supply line, sink over flow and the like. Water from floor drains, foundation leaks and other sources can look clear but are recognized as sources for mold, germs and microorganisms. All these will lead to complications easily avoided with removal and replacement.WET PAD CAN BE DIRECTLY EXPOSED TO AIR MOVEMENT. This can often eliminate wet pad that is in the middle of a large room or buried under many pieces of heavy furniture. Wet pad requires an air mover placed under the carpet, but on top of the pad itself to run for several days. Unless you are willing to move all the furniture and cut some carpet to allow for the placement of an air mover, it will remain wet, leading to the difficulties previously described.IF THE PAD DOESN'T HAVE A PLASTIC SHEATH ON ONE SIDE. Some manufacturers of carpet pad place a thick plastic sheath on one side often calling their product, "spill guard" or "child-proof". This type pad is ideal on a main floor where spills and pet accidents can force liquids to get to pads from the top down. The plastic sheath allows for the liquid to remain suspended on the plastic for easy cleanup. However, if the water came from the bottom up as is the case in most basement flooding, water will remain trapped. In this case removal is required as water will languish for multiple days eventually introducing offensive and permanent odors. If the pad is heavily saturated and has a plastic sheath you should consider contacting the professionals for water removal emergency...
Removing Wet Drywall During Flood Cleanup: WET DRYWALL AFTER A FLOOD? Professional Guidelines on Drywall Care after Flood Damage Knowing how to access property damages after a flood requires special knowledge that often homeowners are not well versed in. For instance, should you be removing wet drywall after a flood? Ask this of a handyman, electrician or close friend and you will get 3 different answers. There is however, an objective standard that has been created by the IICRC (Institute for Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration Certification) that has produced the S-500 publication answering this very question. Created by experts in various fields such as property restoration, microbiology and construction, there is no reason to guess what to do with wet drywall any longer. Once water has reached walls and ceilings comprised of drywall there are several questions one needs to get a clear answer on, as this will guide the necessary steps going forward. Under some conditions, drywall must unequivocally be removed to eliminate the possibility of mold growth and mold spore spread throughout the home. In other scenarios the wet drywall can be safety restored leaving no evidences it was ever wet to begin with. Knowledge is key and willingness to follow the same standards that professional restoration companies must follow, will allow you to breath easier. 3 Types of Water That Make Drywall Wet Before removing wet drywall or considering the proposition of restoring drywall, we need to turn our attention on the 3 types of water that gain access to drywall, either in a flooded basement or main floor. Type 1. Fresh water that comes from municipal plumbing lines. This is water from a broken pipe, burst water heater or malfunctioning appliance. Type 2. Water that has living organisms capable of amplifying and fueling the rapid growth of mold. This water originates from sump pump wells, also known as ground water and from foundation leaks. Type 3. Water that originates from highly unsanitary environments with potentially pathogenic (causing illness) germs. Sewage backups, water from lakes and streams and toilet overflows all are considered type 3 water. This type of water destroys everything it comes in contact with and requires sewer backup restoration of the entire area affected. Knowing the 3 types of water and their identity, allows us to cut to the chase on removing wet drywall after flood cleanup. If type 3 water is known to have come into access with drywall the answer is always removal, and sooner the better. The materials are contaminated beyond the possibility of safety drying and will always off gas mycotoxins. These along with up to 81 harmful viruses seems to make removing wet drywall during flood cleanup a no-brainer. "No you can't disinfect, seal or cover the dangers, removal is the only safe option". How Long Drywall is Wet Matters OK! so now we know all wet drywall from type 3 water requires removal. So lets identify another factor that will guide whether wet drywall from type 1 and 2 water can be restored or removed, TIME! Time makes the contamination level of the drywall moving towards a worse condition each hour finally producing the same dangers as type 3 water. Once type 1 water absorbs into drywall, it becomes type 2 in 72 hours. That is the standard to apply to any type of wet drywall state. Every 72 hours or 3 days the water type automatically transitions to the next type. This being said, if fresh water is in drywall for 72 hours it is in a state of potential restoration. If wet for 144 hours or 6 days, removal is recommended. How to Remove Wet Drywall Fortunately this step does not require the instincts of a Neanderthal and large blunt instruments being directed aimlessly at materials. While it might be enticing to participate in theatrical demolition as seen in one of those home improvement shows, your trying out for a Hollywood production. Removing wet drywall during a flood is a bit more civilized. How Much Drywall to Remove? It is important to know how high the water has absorbed into the drywall as this will determine at what height materials are to be removed. This can be done with a moisture detection device available from most local hardware stores. Typically drywall is removed 24" up making it easier for repairs. No dry wall repair specialist wants to work any lower as it is difficult on the body. If it is determined drywall is wet over 24" up, measure to the next foot or 3' up. TOOLS YOU WILL NEED Eye googles Construction mask Gloves Utility Knife Tape measure Chalk line Crowbar Permanent marker Step 1. Use the utility knife to carefully score the caulk line between base molding and dry wall. This should be rather easy due to the drywall being wet. Step 2. Use crowbar to remove the base molding from wall. Don't worry about beating up the drywall as it is being discarded anyway. Be careful to watch for sharp nails when pulling the base as they are regularly used during...
How to Know if you Have a Wet Kitchen Floor: IS YOUR KITCHEN FLOOR WET?Understanding Wet Kitchen Floor IssuesKitchen floors of varying materials are a common surface to acquire water damage. Issues resulting from water spills, refrigerator leaks, broken water supply lines and dish washers are fairly common over time. Most kitchen flooring will quickly reveal an issue as water will pool around the source of water intrusion. But are there times when you may have a wet kitchen floor and not see standing water?The answer is yes! Water that is seen will initiate quick actions to remedy the issue and minimize damage. However, stealthy water can slowly be absorbed into plywood, subfloors and result in permanent damage and mold growth.Signs you May Have Water Under Kitchen FloorFinding a wet area on your floor that doesn’t dry out after you soak up the water with a towel, is a cause for concern. If the water issue is left unattended, excessive moisture will do permanent damage as well as introduce harmful mold growth. Here are some common signs water may be trapped beneath your kitchen floor and things are getting worse.STICK DOWN VINYL TILES will begin to lift, shift and loosen. In time the wet kitchen floor will become so bad the seams will become noticeably separated and lifted becoming a tripping hazard.PLYWOOD SUBFLOORS will swell with moisture making the floor uneven, unlevel and often produce a foul wafting odor that becomes worse with time.CERAMIC TILES are the most difficult to identify, but knowing the signs to look for may reveal a problem. When multiple tiles become loose, lifted and cracked with grout pieces breaking, there could be trapped moisture. If the sound of stepping across the floor becomes hollow and dull along with visible water stains showing up, this is even more of an indication you have a wet kitchen floor.VINYL PLANK FLOORING will begin to look uneven with seams separating and large gaps appearing. In time the wood plywood subfloor becomes so wet the floor can feel spongy and prominent odors can make the room musty and smell offensive. HARD WOOD FLOORING is one of the easiest to recognize as having water damage. Hard wood floors quickly swell with water revealing signs of buckling, cupping with seams lifting making the shape of an Indian teepee. These floors are conspicuous and difficult to walk on without tripping.LINOLEUM FLOORS will bubble, lift in the seams and begin to peal away from the corners and edges of the walls.CARPETED KITCHEN FLOORS will be wet to the touch, leave footprints when walked on and produce strong musty odors.2 Ways to Know you Have a Wet Kitchen Floor When you Don’t See WaterThese are ways to know you have a wet kitchen floor by observing the signs listed above. Other times water will not be noticeable to the naked eye. These situations require advanced technology to discover. By performing a moisture test you will know for sure if you have a wet kitchen floor requiring drying service.Employ the Use of a Non-Penetrating Moisture MeterThese instruments send an electromagnetic signal through flooring materials that will easily detect a wet kitchen floor. The higher the signal the closer you are to the source of the water intrusion. These moisture detection meters are affordable and can be found at a local hardware store.Another option is getting professional help for water damage from a local property restoration firm. Most provide free inspections and use highly advanced moisture detection instruments that homeowners would not be interested in investing in. Their expertise in wet kitchen flooring detection will be valuable in helping locate the source of the water as well as providing a strategy to restore or replace the flooring.Use a Penetrating Moisture MeterThis moisture meter has two sharp pins that once placed into a material will identify if the materials are wet or dry. These meters only give the moisture content of the materials the pins are directly placed in.What are the Reasons for a Wet Kitchen Floor?Once you know you have a wet kitchen floor the next thing to learn is how did it get there. Going through this checklist should reveal the reasons behind kitchen flooring water damage. However, if nothing becomes evident, you may consider contacting the professionals at Action Extraction. We provide free property inspections using scientific technology to help locate difficult to diagnose situations.Dish washer malfunction: Check the flooring around the dish washer and check the water supply lines for leaks. Also check the discharge line that connects to the garbage disposal. If these fittings are lose check for water leaks.Kitchen sink Issues: A kitchen sink has a hot and cold water supply line that need to be inspected for leaks. Additionally the drain deposits water in the p-trap assembly which needs to be inspected for leaks. Tighten any loose fittings.Refrigerator Supply line: Many refrigerators have a supply line for on demand water and ice cubes. If the line...
Laundry Tub Overflow Flood Damage: DO YOU HAVE A LAUNDRY TUB OVERFLOW? Laundry Tub Overflow and Flood Damage Prevention It was in 1782 when the first recognized washing machine was first introduced using a crank to assist in cleaning. Since then incremental improvements and electricity have gotten us where we are presently. The amount of water used by washing machines is actually more than any appliance in a home. Enough to cause laundry tub overflow flood damage. The Multiple Uses of a Laundry Room Tub Today there are options to a laundry tub such as a system that allows all water hookups and drain assembly to be installed in a wall. These options are usually in homes where there is a first floor laundry and the placement of a laundry tub was deemed redundant. Laundry tubs are used for much more than just draining the water from a washer, as they can be used for many purposes. These purposes while adding benefits are the very reasons that laundry tub overflow flood damage occurs more often. Tips on Preventing Laundry Tub Overflow Flood Damage Always Have Someone Present When Doing Laundry Even the fire departments recommendation on doing laundry is to make sure someone is home to prevent fires. Bearings can overheat from friction and other components can malfunction. The same is true for preventing water damage that can come from a laundry tub overflow. If someone is home, the sound of water splashing over the tub and hitting the ground can bring the emanate catastrophe to a halt. If the sound doesn't catch the attention of an occupant the water migrating from the laundry room may show up in a hall and alert someone to act accordingly. Annually Inspect the Washer Drain Line Inspecting the drain hose for defects, tears, small holes and blisters can identify a potential problem before it manifest itself in the form of laundry tub overflow flood damage. These drain can be purchased affordably and should be replaced if any suspicious looking compromises exist. Make Sure the Drain is Fastened Securely to the Tub Washing machines create a lot of violent vibration that only increase during the drain cycle. This energy along with water flow pressure can over time compromise the security of the drains attachment to the tub. There are multiple options to firmly attaching the washing machines drain hose to the laundry tub. Below are just a few options, easily purchased at a local hardware store. Radiator clamp Zip-tie Plastic assembly hanger Wire Duct tape Screws and anchors By making sure the drain is securely fastened to the laundry tub you are eliminating the potential for laundry tub overflow flood damage. The old adage that, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," applies here. Routinely Check the Attachment of the Laundry Tubs Legs The laundry tub legs are not secured with screws or any hardware, only a small slot that they are press-fitted into. If one or more legs becomes compromised from a blunt force you may have the entire tub capsize and spill water throughout your basement or main floor. There are multiple reasons a leg may become jolted out of place and make a water damage disaster likely. If you have children playing near the laundry tub any energetic direct contact can be all it takes. If the tub looks crooked or something no longer looks level, grab each leg one at a time and with upward pressure lift the leg into place if it has become jostled out. Make Sure the Tub is Empty Believe it or not there are insurance claims made each year from preventable laundry tub overflow flood damage. All it takes is a quick glance in the tub making sure nothing is crowding the drain. Anytime a drains function is threatened by an obstruction, there is a likelihood of reduced water flow or complete blockage. Common items that are known to be responsible for laundry tub overflow flood damage are listed below. Wet clothing, socks etc. Empty laundry bottles Lint and other debris Dust pans Paper products Acoustic ceiling tiles Insulation This short list identifies items that are easily discovered with the naked eye if one makes it a habit to observe for tub crowding. Install a Water Alarm Beneath Laundry Tub When water from a laundry tub splashes to the floor beneath, having a water alarm will identify the problem immediately with a loud alarm sound. Even if the tub doesn't have a catastrophic spill, any small leak is sufficient to set off the alarm. Inform all in the home that should the alarm go off to immediately shut off the washing machine and make the necessary repair before turning it back on. The reason should be self evident, but going through this check-list should identify the problem. Keep a Sufficient Space Between the Washer and Laundry Tub The drain hose from a washing machine comes out from the back and is secured over the tubs top edge. Making sure there is enough space between the two will keep the drain from being kicked or pinched, allowing the discharge...
Should Water Damaged Paneling be Restored or Replaced: WARPED PANELING AFTER A FLOOD?Causes for Warped PanelingWhen considering to finish a basement homeowners have multiple options for wall coverings. Drywall, Knotty pine, paneling and even basement kits with fabric walls are available. The choice is usually whatever they feel would compliment their décor and be easy to maintain. Interestingly wood paneling is making a comeback whether through nostalgia or the fact that there are many types to consider. Because basements are prone to flood damage it is wise to consider the durability of water damaged paneling, should the unthinkable occur.Is Wood Paneling a Wise Choice for a Finished Basement?Wood paneling is no less durable than other wall coverings and in many situations will fare better if water comes into contact with it. Water damaged paneling has just as much a chance to be fully restored as dry wall. In some cases paneling will tolerate moisture better than drywall. The Benefits of Using Paneling in a Finished BasementIT BRINGS THE OUTDOORS INSIDE. Covid trapped people in their homes keeping them from the outdoors. Many work in gloomy offices with few windows and children are at school for most of the year. Paneling is a way to bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. Wood has a universal esthetic appeal and the many designs available can match even the most persnickety taste.PANELING HAS MULTIPLE COLORS, DESIGNS AND HANGING OPTIONS. There is bead board, wainscoting, multi-color choices and even diversity in hanging options such as installing panels horizontally.MORE DURABLE THAN DRYWALL. Drywall can easily scratch and dent as anyone careless with a pool que can attest as it can easily penetrate and leave a hole. Paneling being a natural product will preclude mold growth better is high humidity than drywall. Although water damaged paneling can acquire mold in some instances, it is not known to produce black mold as easily as drywall.Regardless the product you choose to finish your basement, flooding can damage any wall covering, requiring either restoration or replacement of materials. If the source of the water damaged paneling or drywall comes from is sewage, replacement is essential due to irreversible contamination.That being said, paneling is a good product to consider for a finished basement even though basements are at higher risk for flooding. If water damage occurs the question will become, "should water damaged paneling be restored or replaced?" The answer to this is, depending on whether the paneling has warped or not and if the water contamination level can be mitigated.What are the Causes of Warped Paneling Excessive High HumidityBasements are known to have higher levels of relative humidity than the main floor. Regular humidity higher than 60% will increase moisture related complications such as mold growth and swelling in wood materials. Paneling has the potential of expanding and warping in these conditions almost looking like water damaged paneling.Wood will naturally breath and mitigate excessive humidity , however in an environment of excessive water vapor will over time expand, warp and buckle. This condition can lead to a more serious effect like mold growth, as paneling will trap too much moisture in its fibers. This same environment will cause mold in drywall which places the basement at even greater risk. Drywall is known to be the favorite food source of black mold being found on drywall much more than on wood paneling.Low Density Wood PanelingThe relative sparsity of mass in a thin sheet of paneling such as .25" thickness will be more susceptible to warping than a thicker panel. Just as it is easier to bend a thin piece of wood than a thick piece, so .25" paneling will warp easier than a sheet of '50" thickness. Try to use a thicker paneling as they will withstand humidity better. In extreme situations even denser materials will take on the look of water damaged paneling. Size Matters with Warping in PanelingModern paneling comes in all different shapes, grades and sizes. The smaller sections can come in pieces like 4"x6", where other sections can be the traditional size of 4'x8' sheets. In a high humidity environment the small pieces are almost indomitable to the potential of warping, making them a great choice. The larger sections must share the force of the swelling making them easier to distort and buckle. In answering the question, "should water damaged paneling be restored or replaced?" the answer may be, depending on the size. Smaller pieces almost never need to be replaced unless there is mold growth on wood.Is Warped Water Damaged Paneling a Permanent Condition?By the time you notice water damaged paneling having warped it is too late to remedy in most cases. When it is warped from flooding or so conspicuous that it captures your attention upon entering the room, it may be better to replace. However, if you are not shy from hard work, there are several techniques that could restore water...
Should Water Damaged Carpet Be Restored?: DO YOU HAVE WET CARPETS?Do You Need to Replace Water Damaged Carpets? If you are like many homeowners who have experienced a flood in their home, you may be dealing with some wet carpet. Seeing once valued carpet, wet, smelling and in dire condition has many ask the obvious, "should water damaged carpet be restored or replaced?" More than half of all residential water damage affects carpet as it is highly popular US floor covering. In this article we will explore the options and hopefully disseminate additional information that may help you make the right choice when you have carpet water damage. When you understand the risks vs benefits of trying to restore wet carpet, your final decision will be based upon knowledge and not presumption.In a perfect world where limitless financial resources are at ones disposal, it is always best to replace wet carpets. If you have made an insurance claim for water damage, you should communicate the importance of getting new carpet with the professionals restoring your property. 8 Times When Water Damaged Carpet Must be ReplacedThere are times when the answer to, should water damaged carpets be restored? is an unequivocal NO! There are conditions that exist where the carpet becomes so infinitely beyond the scope of restoration that it must be replaced. Things to consider is the amount of time carpet has been wet, the source of the water, the magnitude of the odor and the overall appearance. Below we will explore each of these considerations as they are instrumental in making the right decision. 1. When the Type of Water Comes From a Contaminated SourceThere is a deference in taking a shower in fresh water as apposed to ground water. This same logic exist when it comes to wet carpeting in your home. If the carpet has fresh water damage and it has not been wet for over 2 days, there remains a chance it can be restored. If however, the sewer backed up, the toilet overflowed, the sump pump failed or flood waters from steams and rivers has soaked the carpet, you are dealing with "living water". There exist microorganisms, germs, bacterial, harsh chemicals, fertilizers and in the case of sewage; viruses! This water has made the carpet pathogenic (causing illness to humans) and any attempt to restore wet carpet, a dangerous and futile exercise. 2. When the Water Saturation in Carpet Covers a Large AreaIf a slow leak from a water supply line created a small area of wet carpet, there is hope. When the amount is abundant affecting the entire room or several rooms than each layer of carpet is water-logged and so is your pad, subfloor and tack-less strip. Drying this mess is going to be more difficult and in most cases the technique required to dry carpet involves cutting, detachment and pad removal.In this case the required service to restore the wet carpet is pad replacement, re-stretching the carpet, additional cutting and new seam tape which never looks as good as the original installation. You are better off replacing the carpet and pad even though it is more expensive. By the time you go through the complete restoration service, you almost spend as much and the results drastically compromise the original install integrity and appearance.3. If the Carpets Have Languished in Water For DaysSometimes by the time wet carpets are discovered they have been saturated several days. Basement flooding can go unnoticed for days if occupants don't regularly frequent the basement. Often water damage can occur when people are away for several days and come home to the unthinkable.Professional restoration companies follow the guidelines of the IICRC (Institute for Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration Certification) which recommends replacement when carpets have been wet for 48 - 72 hours. Dwell time causes irreversible conditions to manifest from appearance compromise to unsanitary considerations. If germs, mildew and mold growth begin to develop, you have an unnatural eco system thriving in your carpet. In this case the sensible choice is replacement when wondering, "should water damaged carpet be restored?"4. If the Carpet Smells Pungent Lingering Odors from a water damaged carpet can be impossible to fully remove and are a compelling reason to consider replacement. Even if you can dry wet carpets in a timely manner, the cleaning and sanitization process fails to remedy the permanent odor of padding. The pad will often retain an unpleasant smell that never fully dissipates. Permanent odors always make it best to replace water damaged carpet over restoration.5. When Wet Carpets are to Difficult to DryCarpets that have been wet for days, have had several inches of standing water on them and are a part of a large area, are too difficult to dry affordably. After wet carpets are professionally extracted there still remains trapped moisture that requires air movement and dehumidification to fully restore wet carpet. This can be an expensive service that can take days and...
The Common Causes of Basement Floods: Macomb County Basement Flood Restoration - Action Extraction If you are in need of top rated Macomb County Basement Flood Restoration, please call Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency service. Click here to learn more about our Basement Flood Restoration services or Follow Us on Facebook! Basement floods can be caused by a variety of factors, including: Heavy rain or snowmelt: During heavy rain or snowmelt, water can accumulate quickly and overwhelm basement drainage systems. Poor drainage: Poorly designed or clogged drainage systems can cause water to accumulate around the foundation of your home, leading to basement flooding. Foundation cracks: Cracks in the foundation of your home can allow water to seep into the basement. Sump pump failure: Sump pumps are designed to remove excess water from the basement, but if they fail, water can accumulate and flood the basement. Plumbing issues: Leaking or burst pipes, a backed-up sewer line, or other plumbing issues can cause water to flood the basement. Improper grading: If the ground around your home is not properly sloped away from the foundation, water can accumulate and seep into the basement. Basement window wells: Poorly installed or maintained window wells can allow water to accumulate and seep into the basement. To prevent basement floods, it's important to keep your basement drainage systems, sump pump, and plumbing in good condition, and ensure proper grading and window well maintenance. For experienced and trusted Macomb County Basement Flood Restoration, call Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448...
Sewage Cleanup in Sterling Heights: Sterling Heights sewage cleanup. If you are in need of a top rated sewage cleanup company in Sterling Heights who does basement cleanup service, please call Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency assistance. Click here to learn more about our basement flood cleanup services or Follow Us on Facebook! Sewage Cleanup Company in Sterling Heights, MI A restoration company can be a valuable asset in the event of a basement flood for several reasons: Expertise and Equipment: A professional restoration company has the expertise and specialized equipment to properly assess the extent of the damage and effectively remove excess water, dry out the affected area, and mitigate any mold or mildew growth. Quick Response Time: Water damage can cause significant harm to your property in a short amount of time. A restoration company can respond quickly to mitigate further damage and help prevent any long-term problems. Safety Concerns: Basement flooding can pose serious safety risks, such as electrical hazards or exposure to hazardous substances. A professional restoration company can ensure that the area is safe before beginning any restoration work. Insurance Claims: A reputable restoration company can help navigate the insurance claims process, ensuring that you receive the maximum coverage for the damage done to your property. In summary, hiring a restoration company can save you time, money, and stress in the event of a basement flood. They can provide expert assistance, rapid response, ensure safety, and help with insurance claims. For an experienced and trusted Sterling Heights Basement Flood Cleanup service, contact Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 now! Sewage Cleanup in Sterling Heights Sewage backup incidents & cleanup in Sterling Heights, Michigan can be an issue for any homeowner or business owner, causing significant damage, health hazards, and disruption to daily life. Sterling Heights, like many urban areas, faces its share of challenges when it comes to sewage cleanup. However, the city has been proactive in addressing these issues, employing various strategies to mitigate the impact of such incidents and safeguard the well-being of its residents. The Sterling Heights, MI, struggle of sewage cleanup is real: Sterling Heights, situated in Macomb County, Michigan, experiences its fair share of sewage backup incidents due to a combination of factors such as aging infrastructure, heavy rainfall, and increased urbanization. The city's sewer system, like many others across the country, is susceptible to overflows and blockages, leading to sewage backups into homes, businesses, and streets. The consequences of sewage backups in Sterling Heights with proper cleanup companies. The consequences of sewage backups are multifaceted and severe. Not only do they cause extensive property damage, including structural issues and contamination of belongings, but they also pose significant health risks. Raw sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that can cause illnesses ranging from gastroenteritis to respiratory infections. Moreover, the foul odor associated with sewage backups can make affected areas uninhabitable until proper cleanup is conducted. Government Initiatives for sewage cleanup in Sterling Heights, MI. In response to the challenges posed by sewage backups, the city of Sterling Heights has implemented various initiatives aimed at preventing, managing, and cleaning up such incidents. One notable effort is the ongoing investment in upgrading and maintaining the city's sewer infrastructure. By modernizing aging pipes, increasing capacity, and implementing advanced monitoring systems, the city aims to reduce the likelihood of sewer overflows and backups. Furthermore, Sterling Heights has established robust emergency response protocols to swiftly address sewage backup incidents when they occur. This includes deploying specialized cleanup crews equipped with the necessary tools and protective gear to safely remove sewage, decontaminate affected areas, and restore normalcy as quickly as possible. Sterling Heights community Involvement in sewage cleanup: Beyond government-led initiatives, community involvement plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of sewage backups in Sterling Heights. Residents and businesses are encouraged to take proactive measures to safeguard their properties, such as installing backflow prevention devices and maintaining their sewer lines. Additionally, raising awareness about the importance of proper waste disposal practices and reporting any signs of sewer problems promptly can help prevent larger-scale incidents. The Role of professional sewage cleanup companies in Sterling Heights, Michigan: In many cases, sewage cleanup requires professional expertise and specialized equipment to ensure thorough and safe restoration. Professional cleanup services in Sterling Heights play...
Why You Should Hire Professionals for Flood Damage Restoration: Macomb County Flood Damage Restoration - Action Extraction If you are in need of top rated Macomb County Flood Damage Restoration, please contact Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency services. Click here to learn more about our flood damage restoration services or Follow Us on Facebook! There are several reasons why you should hire a professional for flood damage restoration: Safety: Floodwaters can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. A professional flood damage restoration company has the equipment and expertise to safely remove any contaminated materials from your home and protect you and your family from illness. - Experience: Flood damage restoration is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and experience. A professional flood damage restoration company has trained technicians who know how to properly assess the damage, develop a plan of action, and restore your home to its pre-flood condition. - Speed: The longer you wait to address flood damage, the more extensive and costly the repairs become. A professional flood damage restoration company has the equipment and resources to quickly and efficiently remove water, dry out your home, and prevent further damage. - Insurance: If you have flood insurance, hiring a professional flood damage restoration company can help ensure that your claim is processed smoothly and efficiently. Restoration companies have experience working with insurance companies and can provide the documentation and proof of damage necessary to support your claim. Overall, hiring a professional flood damage restoration company can help ensure that your home is restored to its pre-flood condition safely, quickly, and effectively. For experienced and trusted Macomb County Flood Damage Restoration, call Action Extraction at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7...
6 Steps To Remove Water From Carpet And Prevent Mold Growth: 6 Steps To Remove Water From Carpet And Prevent Mold Growth Wet carpet is almost always immediately noticed as wet, whether you are wearing socks, shoes or barefoot. The source of the water will vary from a leak to an overflow or even an appliance that has malfunctioned. Have you discovered wet carpet after descending your steps to a wet basement? Has a drain backed up damaging your valued floor covering? Anyone who has experienced this will attest to the inescapable conclusion that, “this is a bad thing”. If wet carpets are discovered moments after the intrusion than chances are your situation is not as grim as those who stumble upon the same event after being away for a weeks’ vacation. Do You Have A Water Issue That Has Affected Your Carpet? You are not alone as most insurance claims are related to in home water emergencies. However, in many cases a professional restoration firm may not be required if the water is isolated. The situation is manageable in many cases with a little knowhow and commitment to remedying the problem the right way. Wet carpet left to itself can create a menacing situation where subfloors become permanently damaged, smells manifest and even mold growth can begin. Following the steps below will assure that these unpleasant developments don’t occur in your home. Finding The Source Of The Water While it may appear obvious like a leaky pipe or appliance that has malfunctioned, sometimes why carpet is wet can be a conundrum. Be sure to look at all nearby plumbing from kitchens and bathrooms. If the area is in a basement locate where floor drain may be located. Investigate the surrounding areas by your water heater and humidifier too if your home has one. Sometimes the source of moisture can be overhead so look for signs of water stains or water coming down through the ceilings. Plumbing in the walls and/or ceilings that may be the source often leak in stealth making it difficult to locate. Lastly check by walls and corners that are not frequently walked on as in some cases water is slowly infiltrating from outside the home making its way to your carpet. Sometimes a pungent smell that has pervaded the home will be worse near the source and indicate the reason why carpet is wet. Sometimes Carpet Is Wet And You Don’t Know While this may seem counterintuitive to believe carpet is wet when it doesn’t feel wet, it is more common than you might think. How? You may ask. Many carpets have a pad that has a plastic top cover to keep spills and pet accident from getting to the actual pad. These pads are sometimes called spill guard and water proof. In cases where water comes down from the top these plastic liners may help prevent water from getting to the pad. Conversely any water (from a drain, floor crack or slow leak) coming from the bottom up will be trapped in pad as the plastic liner will keep it from getting to the top. Several signs this is occurring will be pungent smells, vacuuming the area feels noticeably different than other areas vacuumed, discoloration slowly appears and gets bigger each week. The worse signs are when health issues occur such as itchy eyes and throat, coughing, allergy like symptoms and a mysterious malaise that doesn’t seem to go away. In such circumstances it is advisable to contact a professional water restoration firm to assist. There exist the potential of a high risk environment requiring stringent guidelines to keep the possible presence of mold from spreading. 6 Steps To Remove Water From Carpet And Prevent Mold Growth If your carpet is wet, smells and you have taken care of the source, there’s no time to lose. Follow these 6 steps for water removal and drying your carpet. Proper and careful adherence to these guidelines can prevent the growth and spread of mold and mildew. 1. Remove The Water And Moisture Most homes have a shop vac somewhere that can be operated as a wet vac and are ideal for removing water from carpets. Vacuum is the best way to extract surface water and minimize the moisture content allowing for the drying process to begin. If you don’t have a wet vac than chances are your neighbor does and the two of you are on speaking terms and friendly. If they are nice enough to loan you the use of their vacuum I would suggest buying them a new filter as a way of saying thank you. If the neighbor suggestion doesn’t work out than any hardware store sells affordable shop/wet vacs and there uses in the home or garage are many. In some cases they may even rent them if you’re not convinced you would need one in the future. 2. Check Your Walls And Furniture For Moisture For the same reason the carpets are wet you may also have wet walls or furniture. When carpet gets wet it can absorb and spread to a walls base molding and dry wall. These materials are cellulose and serve as a food source for mold. Once they become wet they can produce mold if not dried...
Residential Water Damage: WATER DAMAGE CAN QUICKLY RUIN YOUR HOME Understanding Residential Water Damage Residential Water damage is an emergency related service homeowner’s need when they discover unwanted water has intruding into the living space of their homes. Such water can result from a leaky or broken water pipe, toilet overflow, drain backup or appliance malfunction. Identifying the source of the intrusion is essential so you can quickly stop further damage by turning the water main off, in most cases. HOW BAD IS RESIDENTIAL WATER DAMAGE? It is about as destructive an energy as fire and can do permanent harm to a homes structural integrity and in severe cases cause black mold and other toxic conditions. Within the first 24 hours of a flood condition hard wood flooring can be completely destroyed, electrical switches and receptacles can be shorted out, drywall and wood base can swell and become defaced, supportive wood substrates can become compromised and a perfect environment for mold growth exist. This is why it’s always best to act quickly and get professional help for water damage in the home. Each hour water languishes as a destructive energy the more your home will suffer in the long run. Water will continue to absorb into materials and water will become more contaminated which is when microorganisms begin to thrive. 2 IMPORTANT FACTS TO CONSIDER: According to the Insurance Research Industry 98% of all basements in the US will at some point experience some sort of residential water damage. Homeowners are not alone when indoor flood damage lifts its ugly head unexpected. The second startling fact is many homeowners are unaware that their homeowner’s policy may not cover residential flood damage, if the source of the water is from a sewer or drain. The needed coverage in these situations requires an additional policy addendum requiring a yearly premium and has a monetary limit usually at $5,000 - $20,000. How Quickly Does Residential Water Damage Progress? Even what seems insignificant like a water leak or wet carpeted area can be more complicated than at first glance. A more detailed evaluation can often show water has migrated to other rooms and even deluged down to a lower level of the home. Now suddenly what seemed harmless has demonstrated itself to be more problematic. Professional water restorers use sensitive moisture detection meters that will often discover even more concerns than what the naked eye can uncover. Time Lapse Progression of Residential Water Damage THE FIRST 24 HOURS: As water from a leak or drain spreads in the home it saturates everything it come into contact with. Your valued furnishings, clothing, paper products, pictures, books and wood furniture all will gladly absorb as much water as possible. That's what cellulose and absorbent materials do and this is a natural phenomena that works against you. Additionally the construction materials your home is comprised of will do the same. Drywall, carpets, wood flooring, doors and trim and cabinetry are also in a state of emergency, requiring restoration and drying. If your property is left to languish without proper treatment the time lapse progress of destruction advances to another level. If the water source is from a roof leak than ceilings, insulation, electrical components and fixtures are at risk and the needed property restoration will be more involved to fully remedy this hapless condition. THE FIRST WEEK CONDITION: Doors and windows are now so swollen they may be completely frozen in place, window frames are noticeably warped and swollen, wood flooring has buckled and lifted making it dangerous to walk on without tripping. Making matters worse, behind all wood trim and in each wet wall cavity mold has begun to develop and spread. It is not unusual for mild to not only be physically present, but at one week it can be seen as discolored and blotchy spots on multiple surfaces. All it takes for mold to manifest and thrive in a home is moisture, stagnant air and an absence of UV lighting. This "perfect storm" will heighten the level of concern for occupants and in some instances the home could be inhabitable till restoration steps are implemented. Human safety is a critical concern when residential water damage has been left to itself for a week or more. MORE THAN ONE WEEK: The homes condition is dire and human health is at risk by merely breathing the indoor air. Mold will be seen almost everywhere especially seen on cellulose materials like boxes, paper, drywall and wood doors and trim. Before any of these materials that are replete with mold can be removed from the home, indoor air quality must be managed. An air filtration system forcing air directly out of the home must be placed and a plant-based anti-microbial agent needs to be applied to all wet materials, prior to stirring up air. Here are Some Sources Of Residential Water Damage There are an assortment of issues that cause...
Getting Professional Help For Water Damage: DO YOU HAVE WATER DAMAGE AND NEED HELP? Consider Professional Restoration All it takes is a storm, flood or plumbing issue to turn an otherwise ordinary day into a "day of infamy", to borrow from FDR. That's what finding water in your property does and it is important to know what to do and who to call. Action Extraction restoration professionals have specialized in removing unwanted water, cleaning up the mess and structurally drying homes for over 30 years. In this time we have learned that getting professional help for water damage isn't as easy for some as others. THERE IS THE DO-IT-YOURSELFER: These individuals are resourceful and consider attempting the cleanup themselves. The wet area requiring attention may not be large and they don't mind working hard for that wholesome sense of accomplishment. They have some extra time on their hands and they have a history of being rewarded in the past, having tackled other projects solo. THERE IS THE "I'LL JUST WAIT TILL TOMORROW" INDIVIDUAL: These people are not ready to except the severity of the moment and are willing to let matters lie till the next day. The hope is tomorrow will avail them with a greater measure of clarity, but until then, the mess remains. There are other attitudes we could consider as well such as, "It's not that bad, I'll just turn on a fan to dry the carpet", "I don't have the funds for professional restoration", and the one that is like a theme you might see in a a sitcom. "I just rent, and this is a great way to negotiate several months of free rent". This is a real thing believe it or not. All these exist because getting professional help for water damage can be daunting. There is the fear of choosing the wrong company, strangers in the home and the ultimate fear that mold growth has already started and concerns that homeowners insurance will deny the claim. Free Inspections Remove all Hesitation for Getting Professional Help Many things claim to be "the best thing since sliced bread", but fail to impress. However, when you are facing property damage from flooding, you get to try on the shoes before you buy, so-to-speak. Any reluctance to getting professional help for water damage is eradicated with the offer of a free inspection. That's right! Most professional restoration companies near you offer a completely free inspection of your property. This means you get to meet the potential service team your considering to hire, with no strings attached. You get to see them in action, evaluate your damages, and get a free estimate before anything is done or contracts signed. This allows them the opportunity to instill trust in their experts, or not. Here's an Example of a Free Inspection by Our Professionals at Action Extraction Our team of exceptionally trained experts arrive to your home in 1 hour or less. We arrive on-site in a professionally lettered service vehicle that is fully stocked with the latest in property restoration gear and equipment. When we are greeted by you we will be wearing professional uniforms and carrying specialty moisture detection instruments to guide the inspection. We do not rely on the naked eye alone for accessing damages. We use scientific technology that will discover hidden and trapped moisture so the correct protocol for property restoration can be crafted. Once we are fully convinced we have determined the full scope of damage we present to you our findings along with a detailed line item of services required to fully restore your property. Our evaluation is exhaustive and will help you understand the severity of the property damage so you’re able to make the best decisions for the restoration of your home. Our service team will answer all your questions in a courteous manner and will explain our commitment to using the most advanced equipment in the restoration industry to mitigate and restore your home. Benefits of the Free Inspection of Water Damages You will learn from the professionals the complete scope of damage and the correct procedure moving forward to restore your property. If it is residential property damage you can now speak to your insurance company with the correct information. The free inspection also allowed the team of professionals an opportunity to either win you over with their intelligent and compelling knowledge in the industry or convince you to look elsewhere for help. Either way, getting professional help for water damage really makes you the master of your own destiny. The professionals don't get to choose you, you choose them or another, all without obligation or cost. Getting Water Damage & Restoration Help for Businesses Finding a qualified property restoration firm for a business is no different than finding professional help for a home. If your business or commercial building is experiencing any type of water damage, you don't have time to be down losing revenue or sending employees home. You need an emergency response crew...
Water Damage From A Refrigerator Supply Line: DOES YOUR REFRIGERATOR SUPPLY LINE LEAK? Refrigerator Leaks Can Cause Extensive Water Damage Egyptian Pharaohs had slaves fan their wine continuously to keep it cool. Our ancestors could have never imagined the marvel of the present day refrigerator. Theses modern marvels have changed the way we live and unless they stop working or someone gets water damage from a refrigerator supply line, they have few down sides. NORMAL WATER LEAKS FROM REFRIGERATORS: You may notice an occasional puddle under the fridge, water splashed on floor during filling a glass of water or a stray fallen ice cube melts. We have all experienced these incidents that get the floor wet, while still having a perfectly running appliance. But when you see it occurring regularly and there may even be evidence of water damage from a refrigerator supply line such as damage on the flooring or walls, you have a problem. The issue may be the refrigerator itself or it could be a loose or broken water supply line. The refrigerator is one of the most important inventions of all time. Prior to 1748 there were few successful methods of preserving food for over several days. In biblical times salt was used to keep meats from putrefying and it wasn't until 1748 that the first refrigeration system was invented that changed everything. By 1963 over 99% of all US homes had one and thus began the possibility of water damage from a refrigerator supply line. Refrigerators Upgrade to Automatically Supplying Ice Today they come with automatic ice makers, on demand filtered water and some even with cable TV. With convenience comes the potential for malfunction and that is just such a case today in Shelby MI. Action Extraction restoration professionals are providing service in a home due to water damage from a refrigerator supply line. This property just acquired a beautifully remodeled kitchen, but this morning the property owners awoke to standing water throughout their kitchen, great room and basement. The timing couldn't have been worse because this unexpected water damage seems so incompatible with the fact that the remodel was completed yesterday. One day into enjoying the beauty of this 'better homes and garden' kitchen and all is now in disarray. The culprit of the water damage is a loose water supply line from the ice maker. The hardware that secures the supply line was inadvertently loosened as the refrigerator was moved around during the installation of the new wood flooring. Once it was placed in its regular space the supply line began to leak and in several hours they got water damage from a refrigerator supply line. Common Causes of a leaky refrigerator supply line The water line is torn when the refrigerator is pulled out to clean behind it. Clogged water line from debris, often inadvertently caused during installation. Plastic materials such as lines develop tiny cracks or openings over time. Copper materials kink and quickly develop an opening. Shut off hardware or related components become loose. Excessive ice blocks normal function of refilling the collection ice bin. The freezer defrost drain line is blocked by stored food items. Refrigerators vibrate and this increases with age eventually loosening or cracking connections or water line. How Bad can the Water Damage be From a Refrigerator Supply Line? In a matter of hours the water damage can cause hard wood flooring to buckle, lift and cup, making restoration difficult. Dry wall can be affected which immediately places the home in a state of emergency because mold can develop in cellulose materials in a matter of 3 - 4 days. Multiple rooms can become affected by migrating water and water can deluge to a lower level of the home, often flooding a basement. Acting promptly to remove water will assure you don't also have to remove mold from the home latter. When water from a kitchen fridge leaks badly enough to drip down to a basement ceiling materials and even electrical fixtures and switches can be damaged where significant dangers could arise, including electrical shock. There is also the upheaval that takes place when furniture, documents, sentimental items and cherished antiques get water damaged. Knowing how to protect your valuables during a basement flood can be of value. In such a scenario an insurance claim should be made to help pay for the restoration and repairs. A professional property restoration company will be able to navigate the claim and supply all pictures and needed documentation. This service will also included a comprehensive strategy for drying all wet structures as quickly and efficiently as possible. The professionals at Action Extraction of Macomb have manages such water disasters for over 3 decades and can help make what appears to be a monumental catastrophe into a remarkable feat of restoration in very little time at affordable rates. Do you Have Water Damage From A Refrigerator Supply Line? While water damage can slowly...
Protect Your Valuables During A Basement Flood: ARE YOUR VALUABLES PROTECTED AGAINST FLOODING? Tips on Flood Proofing Cherished Valuables Few things bring Fathers and sons together more than sharing common interest. Fishing together, interest in cars and collecting sports memorabilia can make lasting memories and unbreakable bonds that will be cherished a life time. If you have valued collector's items in your home it is important to make sure you include such articles on your homeowners insurance to protect valuables from a flooded basement. What about collectors of stamps, dolls, board games, pictures, action figures and others cherished items? Most insurance carriers require specific policies to cover loss to many of the items homeowners believe are covered, but are not. Many times collectibles are stored in a basement but not out of reach of rising water that can enter a basement from a failed sump pump, sewer backup or broken pipe. It just takes a bit of creativity and easily purchased items to protect valuables from a flooded basement. Protecting Valued Objects From A Flooded Basement When property owners descend their flight of stairs to discover water in the basement it is natural to be in disbelief and have your stomach stricken with anxiety. However, if you have taken steps to protect valuables from flood damage you may be much more capable of managing the unwanted stress of the moment. Knowing your wedding photos are safe from a sewer backup or that your fathers stamp collection is still unscathed is a feeling that is beyond description. Finding these same items completely destroyed by water damage is equally a feeling beyond description. So whether you live in a flood zone or perhaps your home is older with a drain system susceptible to backing up, here are a few tips that might be very helpful in protecting your valuables from a basement flood. 5 Tips on Protecting Valuable from Basement Flooding 1. Seal all Electronics in Plastic Water can permanently destroy electrical components, but there is a way of protecting your sensitive electronic equipment from flooding, that makes them almost impervious to water. WRAP THEM IN PLASTIC AND TAPE SEAMS. We recommend 3ml plastic and packaging tape which can be purchased at your local hardware store. Before wrapping each component, remove the battery to store in its own protective plastic parcel. This will insure to eliminate any overheating of systems as well as preserve the life of the battery. It shouldn't require a great expenditure of your time to wrap each item in plastic and secure all seams with ample packaging tape, but the rewards are endless if you are wanting to protect your valuable from a basement flood. RELOCATE ELECTRONICS TO AN ELEVATED PLACE. In the event of a flooded basement having your electronics lifted from off the floor will keep them safe in most instances. In rare flood damage scenarios where water rises several feet or water deluges down from above, having electronics carefully sealed in plastic will keep them safe from water. PLASTIC TOTES FOR LARGER ELECTRONICS. Computers, cameras, game consoles, small televisions and any other electronic device should be placed in plastic 20 gallon totes and sealed airtight with plastic wrap. These totes can be lifted off the ground with blocks, bricks, or placed on shelving or table tops. Even if water damage is unavoidable, the effort you take can have a positive return on your investment of time. 2. Secure all Documents Wedding photos, receipts, deeds, wills, birth certificates and other important documents are quickly destroyed in water. If the source of the water is sewage from a floor drain than such cellulose materials are almost impossible to safely restore. There is a way to protect these irreplaceable valuables allowing you to avoid countless hours trying to restore or replace them. SCAN ALL DOCUMENTS AND STORE ON CLOUD OR HARD DRIVE. There are products called receipt scanners that allow you to scan and permanently store on multiple drives important documents. Even in the event of a fire these important documents can be replaced with a printer. Water damage to documents can often be permanent, so scanning them electronically protects them in perpetuity so even the next generation has access to them. WATERPROOF DOCUMENTS WITH A LAMINATING MACHINE. Another way to protect valuable documents during a basement flood or any type water damage scenario is using a laminating machine. Office supply stores are a great place to purchase one and permanently seal and store documents. Individuals who have lost items from a basement flood will almost always agree the greatest loss is important and irreplaceable documents. Furniture, appliances and even clothes can be replaced, but that impromptu photo of a child's first steps are priceless. INVEST IN A WATERPROOF SAFE. These devices are invaluable should one day you step into a flooded basement after a heavy rain or drain backup. Anything placed in a...
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage Will Insurance Cover Your Water Damage? The scenario for discovering water damage is usually the same but with varying differences. Someone stumbles upon the water damage scene unexpectedly when they open a door, go down a staircase, step in a puddle, see it on the floor or hear it dripping. With the discovery there are immediate questions that arise, the most common is, “does homeowners insurance cover water damage?” ]Water damage is one of the most common claims insurance companies are contacted about for property. The answer to the question, does homeowners insurance cover water damage, is based upon the type of water, the source of water and the type of homeowners insurance you have. The Sudden Or Accidental Clause The typical homeowners policy specifies the type of water damage they are willing to cover. The clause that identifies the type of water damage they cover is classified as “sudden or accidental” and the source must be from inside the home. Several Examples Of In The Home Water Damage. Burst or broken water pipe Malfunctioning appliance Sink or tub overflow Toilet backup or overflow Dish washer or washing machine issue Water that comes from outside the home through wall cracks, foundation issues or community flooding is excluded in most cases. To have home protection from water that intrudes from outside the home many will look for special protection policies that cover water damage from outside the property. Water Damage Or Flood Damage – The Important Distinction As we just covered, water sources from within the property that are responsible for damage are considered water damage. Water damage and flood damage are two different things, even if you may have a degree of flooding, its not considered flood damage. Flood damage comes from outside the property and is not the municipal water you are paying for each month. It is flooding from a natural source like storms, overflowing rivers and lakes, hurricanes and tornadoes. Often such flooding involves whole communities where multiple properties become flooded. If you live in a neighborhood that may be prone to such conditions it would be wise to look into specialty homeowners coverage. It is important to carefully read the policy you have to be equipped to stand your ground when talking with your insurance company. The difference between these two can be obscured in a homeowners insurance policy making it confusing to understand or differentiate. Dwelling Coverage Does Covers Most Water Damage If your residential water damage claim is a covered peril as in sudden or accidental the provision for coverage will be under “dwelling coverage” on your policy. This coverage will cover water removal, cleanup, drying and all the related repairs. If your damage is classified as a catastrophic claim and makes your home unlivable, than they will provide for your temporary housing as well. If you live in an upscale home the temporary housing they offer should be commensurate with the lifestyle you are accustomed to. Likewise if your home is a typical middle class home you will be housed but it may not be the Ritz-Carlton. In cases where you have no access to your kitchen they will grant a designated amount of money each day to cover you and your families food needs. Same goes with the loss of a laundry room, there may be monetary assistance to cover the laundromat. A good rule of thumb to remember is: Any water damage resulting from municipal water that is paid for each month is generally a covered loss. So, if a pipe suddenly bursts and damages a wall or a toilet overflows and damages laminate flooring then dwelling coverage may help pay for cleanup and repairs. Cost Of Water Damage Experiencing water damage to your property is no small ordeal and often the damages are greater than initially thought. For instance water is capable of dissolving a variety of different substances that can violate the integrity of a homes structure. Water has commonly been referred to as the “universal solvent” because it dissolves more materials than any other liquid. The more water inevitably means the cost for water damage will be more, so it is important to find out does homeowners insurance cover water damage. If your insurance company covers the expenses of repairing your home it is because you have purchased an adequate policy that covers certain types of water damage. This will be the silver lining to your water damage nightmare and with someone else footing the bill for getting your life back on track, you will not be in debt beyond your deductible. Whether your home has been flooded by hammering rain or a plumbing issue like a sewer backup or broken water pipe, contacting your insurance company sooner than later is advisable. This should be your second call as we stated earlier a reputable water restoration company should be...
Water Damage From A Lawn Sprinkler System: Water Damage From A Lawn Sprinkler System Water Damage From A Sprinkler System Many adults can remember in their youth children running through the sprinklers in the summer to get refreshed from the blistering heat. Some enviable homes actually had a swimming pool, but many had a garden hose with a store bought sprinkler of some sort. Today it is a marvel of technology that sprinklers are under ground and watering your grass is as easy as flipping a switch or turning a dial. The only downside is if your home experiences water damage from a lawn sprinkler system. Action Extraction flood restoration of Macomb MI regularly gets called out to manage broken sprinkler systems that have leaked and saturated the outside soil of a home. When the water comes into contact with the foundation it will often intrude into the home and flood the basement. This type of water damage from a lawn sprinkler system can affect the entire basement if it runs for only several hours. Reasons A Lawn Sprinkler System May Cause Water Damage Freezing can cause water damage. One way water damage from a lawn sprinkler system happens is when the water freezes in the lines and breaks the underground plumbing or the actual system attached to the home freezes and breaks. It only takes a rise in temperature above freezing before the sprinkler system starts to have a powerful stream of running water. With each hour of unabated streaming water there is an increased chance of experiencing residential water damage from a lawn sprinkler system. Before long the soil becomes overly saturated with water allowing it to come into direct contact with the foundation of the home. Water presence and pressure is all it takes to allow a continued inundation of ground water into a basement through windows, cracks in the wall or a floor joint of the basement floor. It is important to make sure your lawn sprinkler system is winterized before the first freezing temperatures begin. This yearly maintenance is the first step to avoid water damage from a lawn sprinkler system. Although this is an essential yearly maintenance, faithful adherence to doing this each year is no guarantee you will not experience water damage from a lawn sprinkler system, because water under pressure can inevitably malfunction. Accidents can cause water damage. Landscapers and lawn maintenance companies are rushed to get from one job to the other and as carefully as they attempt to manage their service can have accidents happen. One common cause of water damage from a lawn sprinkler system is when a lawn technician accidentally hits the water sprinkler system with their lawn mower. If the water immediately makes its presence known by spraying all over, the technician can fix it before you have water damage from a lawn sprinkler system. However if it doesn't manifest its compromised plumbing until an hour after they have gone, water can begin to pour out violently from a system break. Vandalism can cause water damage. Remember the loved Christmas story, 'Home alone'? Two nefarious robbers attempting to steal from Macaulay Culkin's home while he is home alone. After first burglarizing a property, they made it a habit to turn on the water to flood the home as their signature insult. The one thief aspired the duo to be known as the 'wet bandits.' While it is rare, vandalizing a water meter, water outlet or even lawn sprinkler system has been known to happen. One way to keep the plumbing from the hands of what is typically bored adolescence is to hide it from view. One way to keep the plumbing from view of a potential vandal and prevent water damage from a lawn sprinkler system is to cover it with plants, shrubs or bushes. Hiding potential temptation from a troublemaker is an easy way to keep your home from being seen as an easy target for water damage. Some suggest the best way to keep your home from potential destruction is to make sure you use only plants with thorns and sharp jagged leaves and branches. Click here for more tips on how to stop a vandal. How to know if you have water running from a sprinkler systemIf you hear water running from your plumbing system but cannot find out where it is coming from you may be getting water damage from a lawn sprinkler system. Many have experienced hearing running water before and curiously walked through the house to discover where it was coming from. Sometimes it is a dish washer, washing machine or even a sprinkler system running at night. But what happens when you hear running water but cannot find it and no water is coming out of your sprinkler system? You may have a broken sprinkler water line that is under the soil and slowly flooding your property. Immediately turn off your water main and contact a sprinkler repair company to make sure stop the potential of water damage from a lawn sprinkler system. A trained lawn sprinkler technician will be able to locate and easily repair the broken pipe and get your...
Rental Property With Water Damage: Rental Property With Water Damage Water Damage Rental Property Many people are convinced that owning real estate is an enviable way to earn extra income. More people today are renting than at any other time in the last 50 years, so there are plenty of tenants looking to rent ones investment property. Landlords enjoy supplemental income for their investment, but there are no guarantees that emergencies do not happen like a rental property with water damage. The typical downsides of being a landlord are tenants that pay late or not at all, tenants that neglect the property refusing to cut the lawn or shovel the snow and the regular maintenance of the property. If the rental property has a basement than there is an increased risk you will someday have a rental property with water damage. Water Damage From A Plumbing Malfunction. Rental properties are subject to the same maintenance issues as any home. There are plumbing systems that can leak, sewers that can backup and water using appliances like washing machines and dish washers that can cause rental property water damage. But often the water damage you have to ultimately manage on a rental property could have been avoided. But renters are not as responsible for the protection of your income property when water issues manifest, as you would be as an owner. If you discover a water leak in your home from a leaky faucet or burst water heater, you will more than likely fix the problem before it becomes severe. However, this is not the case with renters. They can allow rental property water damage to go on for months without making you aware of it. A slow leaking faucet can become a fast dripping sink that destroys kitchen cabinets with water damage before they notify you of any problem. A leaky hot water heater which could be addressed and replaced can go on for months until it abruptly burst and completely floods the basement. Small Amounts Of Water Will Make A Rental Property With Water Damage. It does not require a large amount of water to damage flooring, walls or cabinets. A small amount will do great damage and if left for months without being remediated will result in mold and even health issues for the tenants. If for instance each time it rains and the floor drain backs up a little and soaks up into the dry wall, there is sure to be water damage that needs service to keep them from becoming moldy. If each time the dish washer is used a little bit of water leaks onto the floor, before long the floor could be greatly compromised from the water damage and even require complete replacement. The same goes for a washing machine that each time during the discharge cycle leaks and makes it way to a small carpeted area. Eventually the carpet will show signs of water damage and could even require replacement. There are even extreme stories of roof leaks that go on for years before the landlord is informed there is even an issue. Such extreme cases have made for rental property with water damage that was very costly to fix. Intentional Water Damage Vandalism You don’t have to be a landlord for long before you learn not all renters are created equal. Most renters that fall behind in the rent are responsible individuals that will try to work things out with the landlord, while others may connive of a way to reduce or get out of a month’cs rent. Such is the case of a southeast Michigan landlord that learned of this the hard way. After trying to negotiate the late rent with a tenant the tenant got belligerent and thought of a way to hurt the landlord and maybe knock off a month or two of rent. They opened the windows in the home during below freezing temperatures after they first removed the insulation wrap around the water lines in an exterior wall. Before long the water pipe froze, broke and made a tremendous water damage nightmare. The tenants called to inform the landlord of his rental property with water damage. Of course they informed him the water damaged their personnel contents and they should not have to pay for that months rent. Who Is Responsible For A Rental Property With Water Damage? The law makes it clear that the landlord is responsible to provide a safe, sanitary and habitable property for tenants to live in. If the roof leaks, if there are plumbing issues or the sewer backs up and floods the basement, it is up to the landlord to provide cleanup and repairs as soon as possible. Often lessees will make the initial call to a water damage restoration company after the basement floods from a sewer backup, but the cost ultimately belongs to the landlord, it is their property. There are of course several caveats that would make the tenant responsible like a waterbed that burst and floods a bedroom carpet or an aquarium that breaks and gets water on the hard wood flooring. However, if they do not willingly pay for the cleanup, it is the landlord that will suffer for the rental property with water damage. If...
What To Expect From Water Damage Cleanup: What To Expect From Water Damage Cleanup If you come home to discover a water damage emergency in your home from a broken pipe, you probably know you have to shut off the water main. The first critical step when you have a flood or water damage emergency is to always stop any active leak. Once the water is shut off and the plumber repairs the broken pipe, a professional restoration company should be called out to evaluate the damages. Once the inspection has been completed the technicians should be able to inform you on what to expect from water damage cleanup. It is highly recommended to contact a local water restoration company as soon as possible to remove any standing water and begin the cleanup and drying process. Each hour water is allowed to remain in the home allows the destructive energy of water to do more damage and increase the cost of repairs. Let us not forget the possibility of mold being introduced into the home if water is left to itself in as little as 48 hours. How To Restore A Home After Water Damage Not all water damage is the same and often the unique circumstances that cause the water damage to begin with will determine the process. Some of the factors that determine how bad the water damage is will be based upon the source of the water. For instance water from a backed up sewer drain is going to be more involved than water from a sink overflow due to the contamination level of the water. Water damage from a refrigerator leak can go on unnoticed for days and weeks causing hidden damage that will require expert evaluation. The professional restoration company you contact will be able to inspect your property in minutes of their arrival and instruct you in detail as to the cleanup process as well as a timeline when you can expect the completion of your service. Here are several steps that will allow you to know what to expect from water damage cleanup. Inspection Of The Water Damaged Property Professionals will be capable of determining what materials have become affected by the water with an inspection. Utilizing specialty moisture detection meters they will be capable of discovering trapped and hidden water that is invisible to the naked eye. Wet building materials like carpet, pad, dry wall, paneling and flooring will be easily accessed for the presence of water. If the materials tested are of a moisture content that is high or dangerous, the restorer will recommend service. If the materials are not affected by water then something as simple as an application of a germ killing agent may be all that is necessary. Often when the amount of water that has inundated an environment is several inches, the damages the restorer finds is great. It is essential for drying equipment to be introduced when humidity is high and salvageable materials are wet. Classifying The Category Of Water The degree of contamination in the water will determine the cleanup standards and allow you to know what to expect from water damage cleanup. There are 3 types of water damage categories ranging from category 1 to category 3. If the water was from a fresh water source like a broken water pipe, sink overflow or a leaky hot water heater the classification of the water is category 1. This type of water damage is not supplied with contaminates heavy enough to require materials to be removed. In most cases, water removal and drying is all that will need to be required. If however the water damage is from a backed up sewer drain that the classification will be category 3. This type of water is highly contaminated and any material that has absorbed this water will have to be removed and germ killing agents utilized to sanitize the property. The professional water damage restorer will be equip to make the appropriate classification of your water damage. Remove All Standing Water Immediately after the inspection of the water damaged property, water removal needs to take place. The water removal process is managed with highly powerful extraction units that are capable of removing water from surfaces and even wet carpet pad. If the flooring the water is standing on is carpet the amount of time will be more than if it is tile flooring. When basements flood often the amount of water can be hundreds of gallons. Furniture may need to be manipulated to allow all wet carpet to be extracted and serviced. Personnel contents may need to be temporarily stored in a garage or unaffected room to allow complete restoration and repairs. Cleanup And Disinfecting Of Materials Once the water is removed any wet building materials will need to be treated based upon the type of water and amount of moisture present. Dry wall that is wet from water with minimal contamination will be capable of being dried without removal. Dry wall that is wet from raw sewage from a drain will need to be removed and the surrounding areas sanitized with appropriate agents. Where ever the water has gone there needs to be...
Flood Damage Restoration | Action Extraction: FLOOD RESTORATION ESSENTIALS Do You Need Flood Damage Restoration Service? Almost every drink imaginable has water in it, soda’s, fruit drinks, energy drinks and even wine is about 86% water. Water is responsible for allowing life on earth and its availability is the greatest factor in determining one’s quality of life. That is of course until its presence is discovered in our homes in the form of flooding. When water is discovered in carpets, ceilings and basements in heavy amounts will require some degree of flood damage restoration, whether DIY or professional. Professional flood restoration companies have the knowledge, experience and efficient skills to act prudently to preserve property and avoid mold damage. The average person knows the basics of removing the water through vacuuming with a shop vac and maybe spraying a disinfectant. Is this enough? Probably not since the #1 insurance claim made by property owners is water damage repair. Many of which began as a DIY project initially giving the semblance of success, but ended up in with mold. Neglecting Water Restoration Service When it comes to flood damage, it’s important to understand the potential health hazards that exist. Water damage related to flooding, leaves things wet and the environmental conditions only worsen with time. Each hour water languishes without remediation, the more increasingly harmful the environment becomes. Mold growth, bacteria, and air borne organisms will soon make for what is known as category 3 conditions. This worse case scenario will always require the skills of a professional flood damage team of experts as contamination will be replete and often hidden. Addressing unwanted water from flooding ASAP will minimize the overall damages it can cause and keep you and loved ones, safe. Water like fire is a destructive energy that can result in costly repairs. Wood can rot, metals can rust, foundations may become compromised, and wet flooring can delaminate. That is not to mention the mold that often grows in post flooded basements due to elevated moisture. Hidden Dangers From Flood Damage When flood cleanup is not fully achieved there can be a slow and imperceptible issue that goes under the radar for months. Mold can be thriving in hidden places making for poor air quality for months before it makes it's ugly presence known. Professional Restoration After Flooding Managing the aftermath of flood damage requires more than just mops, towels and a buckets. While initially creating the semblance of success, without the use of moisture detection instruments to reveal hidden moisture, damage can soon result. This is why professional flood restoration service is better than doing it yourself. The experts such as ours at Action Extraction of Macomb, bring many years of experience to table which makes a difference. We have the resources, experience and skilled technicians to bring the most advanced flood damage restoration available to your home or business. What the DIY Approach to Flood Damage Restoration Requires. EXTRACTION OF ALL STANDING WATER: This means if your basement has flooded you will need to eliminate all standing water on hard surface flooring or carpets with basement water extraction. This may mean renting a powerful pump from a local hardware store if water is several inches deep. If the water source was a sewage backup, check out our post on emergency sewage cleanup service. DISPOSE OF ALL WET MATERIALS THAT COULD ENCOURAGE MOLD: Cardboard boxes, stuffed animals, picture frames, paper products should always be discarded to avoid mold growth. These items are cellulose materials and known to be a preferred food source for mold to feed on. If the water is from a sewage backup, the guidelines on what can and can't be saved are stringent and making mistakes can introduce human health concerns. Call us at 800-949-4448 for further guidelines. ACCESS THE ENVIRONMENT TO DETERMINE SCOPE OF LOSS: Look over the area to evaluate what may be wet such as base moldings, trim, walls and furniture. Knowing what items require attention will increase the potential for safety restoring property. This is one of the most important steps in flood damage restoration service. CLEAN ALL WET SURFACES & STRUCTURES: When flooding introduces water into your property it can rapidly spread from one room to the next. In its migration it can come into contact with surfaces from furnishings to structures. Using an all purpose cleaning agent wipe theses surfaces and agitate thoroughly to loosen dirt, grime and films. SANITIZE ALL CLEANED SURFACES: No flood damage restoration service is complete without killing germs and microorganisms. Using an agent that has on its label, "kills 99.9% of germs", apply liberally and wipe dry. STRUCTURALLY DRY ALL WET STRUCTURES: This will include wet drywall, flooring, cabinets and wood substrates. Wood substrates behind drywall will often be inaccessible in enclosed...
Preventing and Repairing Basement Water Damage: /*! elementor - v3.12.2 - 23-04-2023 */ .elementor-widget-image{text-align:center}.elementor-widget-image a{display:inline-block}.elementor-widget-image a img[src$=".svg"]{width:48px}.elementor-widget-image img{vertical-align:middle;display:inline-block} TIPS FOR DEFENDING YOUR HOME FROM BASEMENT WATER DAMAGE Combatting Basement Water Damage Homes with basements allow for more storage and provide shelter during bad weather, but they also can be a creepy space. Prior to being finished and livable they can have cob webs, stealthy spiders, mystery debris piles, dampness and odd smells. Hollywood often highlights this in many of its horror movies, making them especially suited for dead bodies and zombies. Fantasy aside, some wet basement problems can cost so much to fix, homeowners would rather tangle with a zombie before dealing with repairing basement water damage. WATER ALWAYS WINS: Anytime unwanted water enters a home it will typically affect the basement of the house, as that is the lowest space. If an upstairs bath room has a toilet that leaks it goes into the basement. Water damage from a refrigerator supply line will as well deluge down to the basement. Repairing basement water damage can be necessary from even a minimal amount of water if it gets to drywall, flooring and wood trim. Basement water damage from sewage backups and sump pump failures can damage basement walls, flooring, permanently damage carpets and pad, ruin furniture and lead to mold growth. Silent Sources For Basement Water Damage Moisture Condensation in clammy basements produce air with high moisture content ideal for mold growth. Over time the moisture heavy air begins to condensate on surfaces that become wet such as wood structures and stored boxes and paper products. Many times this will go undetected for protracted periods of time, finally being discovered in the form of mold and smells. At that stage repairing basement water damage can be more costly to remedy. Regularly investigating the basement can keep you informed on newly developing issues that can be corrected before becoming alarming. If you notice moisture in the basement it is advisable to purchase a small dehumidifier and run it continually to keep humidity down. In some extreme instances a ventilation fan can be useful as it will eliminate the stagnate air that is often responsible for basement water damage. Moving air is amazing at altering the conditions that produce mold and will correct many moisture issues. Some basements are where the laundry room is located and faulty dryer vents can be responsible for unwanted humidity. If your dryer vent becomes disconnected or loses its seal, it will not channel the humid air from the home but directly in the basement. Over time the moisture can begin to affect wood substrates or even the concrete walls compromising structural integrity. Sometimes basement water pipes will condensate with moisture rich air and drip water to the area below. If this area is absorbent and a food source for mold, than this too can be a condition to produce unwanted mold and bad smells. Basements have what are known as rod holes and during time of rain will often allow water into the basement. As water infiltrates the soil during rain or running water from a hose, the soil outside the basement wall can come in through these holes. Basement water proofing companies can fix these rather affordably and correct the leak. Basement walls with cracks often are harmless and many years can go by with no water intrusion in the basement. However, eventually these compromises in the foundation can allow large amounts of water during a rain storm and should be fixed. Make sure all gutters and down spouts are connected and channeling water away from the home when it rains. If there is a compromise and water is building up in the surrounding soil, water may get into the basement. Additionally make sure your gutters are clean and working properly so they don’t overflow and contribute to the saturation of soil adjacent the basement walls. Grade the landscape around your home so water naturally is channeled away allowing for the soil directly around the home to not over saturate with water. In rare situations some homes may need to have a drain tile system installed in the ground to carry unwanted water away from the home. Catastrophic Basement Water Damage Sewer backups in a basement are often sudden and catastrophic placing the basement in a state of extreme emergency. Buried under your yard is the homes sewer line, which may be made of outdated clay material. These older systems leak over time inviting nearby tree roots to be attracted to the moist soil. In time they will actually grow right into the system and block the water flow. Tree root intrusion, cracked or broken sections of sewer pipe and city sewer malfunctions can trigger a backup of highly contaminated raw sewage. This toxic environment is a bio...
Causes Of Basement Flooding: IS YOUR BASEMENT FLOODED? Why Basements Flood Basements are known for several negative complaints. They are dark, filled with insects mostly spiders, have musty smells and can flood. A basement can flood at any time and during any season and the causes of basement flooding vary. Spring has its rainy season, fall has thawing snow, but summer and fall are not immune to basement flooding. Sometimes basement flooding manifest for other reasons not related to the outdoor environment such as an indoor plumbing leak, toilet overflow, broken hot water heater of appliance malfunction. FLOODING CAN RESULT FROM seepage that continues when it is rainy outdoors or flow through the walls or foundation floor, from surface water sources, or by a sanitary or storm sewer backup. What all Basement Flooding Has in Common All basement flooding has one thing in common; they are unpredictable and happen at the worst time. Once basement flooding is discovered, time is of the essence because water can destroy a basements dry wall, wood base and expensive building materials like wood cabinetry and hard wood flooring. Also at risk are articles of clothing, furniture, stored items like pictures, family heirlooms, antiques and sentimental personnel belongings. When considering the causes for basement flooding the resulting damages may very greatly. Flooding can be a minor issue that ensues by a slow seepage from a crack in the wall or basement flooding can be from a drain backup affecting the entire space. Because basements occupy the lowest space in the home they are inherently prone to flooding. Unwanted running water from a leaking water pipe or toilet overflow will always deluge quickly to the lowest surface of a home. Groundwater outside of the home is lower than the concrete slab of a basement. During heavy raining this water can begin to rise above the slab and infiltrate the home through a floor drain or floor crack. Homes are designed mechanically to keep this from occurring by use of the force of gravity. Gravity will naturally channel water from the property keeping basement flooding from occurring. However basement flooding will result when this system fails. Basement Flooding From Failed Drain Systems Although the basement system for keeping water from backing up through a drain or sump well is mechanically sound, there are times these proven systems fail and knowing why can help you be preventative for this cause of basement flooding. Here are several reasons systems may fail and flood your home. TREE ROOT BLOCKAGE When sewer drains become blocked by tree roots basement flooding is very probable when heavy raining occurs. Older sewer drain systems are comprised of materials that over time begin to degrade much like a shingled roof. Many of these out dated drain systems are made from clay and after 20 or 30 years will acquire small holes and cracks where water will seep into the soil. Nearby trees with roots deep in the soil will migrate in the direction of moisture and eventually grow into the clay pipes. What starts out small over the years will inevitably become a full blown blockage as deterioration only gets worse. The scenario that may result when the system becomes totally clogged is an abundance of back pressure bringing in sewer water or ground water into the basement, often with great intensity. SUMP PUMP FAILURE Sump pump failures are one of the most common causes of basement flooding. When power outages happen or systems fail from wear, ground water can easily infiltrate property. When ground water surrounding the property rises it brings with it incredible hydro static pressure that will be released through the floor drain or any crack or seam in the concrete slab. What keeps this from happening in homes with a sump pit is an installed discharge pump that engages each time the float detects rising water. Some homes are situated on property with a high water table or nearby stream and run almost continually. Other homes may be situated in a dryer soil condition and seldom engage. When these pumps run they pump rising water away from property by discharging it to the lawn, city storm drain system or pond. Some homes are illegally plumbed into the sewer drain system making the plumbing against code. When power outages occur these pumps will cease to operate so it is recommended to have either a water backup or battery backup system that will keep the property from basement flooding. In addition to power failure there is the possibility of a pump just simply wearing out and completely stopping when you need it most. Sump pumps have longevity of about 7 years so it is highly recommended to replace the pump before they fail. BLOCKED SANITARY LATERAL Most properties have a sanitary sewer lateral that channels waste to either a city sewer system or septic tank. Older homes with systems made from deteriorating materials like clay pipe will slowly degrade over time. As this process...
3 Main Reasons Basements Flood: 3 Main Reasons Basements Flood Most things occur for multiple reasons not just one. This is especially true of things related to property insurance claims made regarding home disasters. Fires can occur from electrical issues, irresponsibility and even arson. Residential water damage manifest when pipes break, appliances malfunctions and toilets overflow as examples of just a few. Because basement flooding is the most common and has several overarching reasons why, this article will focus on the 3 main reasons basements flood. The Impact Of A Flooded Basement A Flooded basement is an occurrence on par with a break-in or a small kitchen fire. It can disrupt life on a grand scale while bringing about unwanted stress and anxiety. Sometimes basement flooding is so severe it affects the necessary operations of the home such as heating, forcing families to be put up at a hotel for weeks. Water in the basement although below the space where most do their living will effect everything related to the home. Basements are where most properties have their furnace, hot water heater and laundry room. Should the basement acquire several inches of water these essential items for normal living can shut down the use of the home. When homes are not able to produce heated air or hot water, people no longer can occupy the premises safety. There are other dangers related to a flooded basement that are even more dramatic than suspending several required services. Mold after a basement flood can move you out of your home and cost thousands in mold mitigation before it is safe to move back in. Basements are dark, dank spaces devoid of UV light making them a playground of microorganisms that amplify quickly when flooding happens. How Basement Design Contributes To Flooding. Imagine an area in your yard where no digging has ever taken place. Attempting to shovel a 3 foot hole would be an endeavor requiring a full commitment of muscle expenditure. Why? Because you’re attempting to dislodge soil that has been settling for hundreds of years. During this time the process of soil becoming wet and dry has gradually removed the air pockets from it making the ground very dense and hard. Apply this concept now to the process of digging a basement. The builders must excavate a hole larger than the basement itself to allow for the concrete walls of the basement to be poured. Once these walls for the construction of the basement have cured the soil is returned. This soil is now very loose and is referred to as”back fill”, having large air pockets in it that will easily allow water accumulation. Compare that to the virgin soil around the property that is still tightly compacted. You actually have a bowl shaped area around your basement that is capable of retaining heavy water each time it rains. This understanding will allow us to clarify latter in this article the 3 main reasons basements flood. Water Naturally Gravitates To Basements Basements occupy the lowest point in a home and just as water poured in a glass will fill from the bottom up, so will water in a home. Whether the water is from an inside source like a broken water pipe on a main floor or water from without that backs up through a floor drain. Both will naturally gravitate to the lowest point causing basement flooding and place the home in jeopardy of mold related issues. Nonetheless when flooded property is quickly attended to with flood restoration service, mold is unlikely. Basement Flooding Can Go Undetected For Days. Often basements that are unfinished are not visited on a regular basis. This is especially true of seniors that often avoid such trips due to safety reasons. Some people only descend the steps to their basement at holidays to bring up decorations. In some cases individuals only are directed to a basement to check on flooding because of a new pungent smell that is foreign to the home. For these reasons basements can remain wet for days and weeks before flooding is discovered. Now that we understand the way water works and the back story to how basements are built, let’s look at the first of the 3 main reasons basements flood. 1) Basements Flood When Water Using Appliances Malfunction. The second law of thermodynamics can be summed up in layman terms as “things break over time”. Your new refrigerator with its water supply line for making ice can break. The new designer washing machine with its enviable high efficiency cycle could leak. The dish washer that guarantees no water spots on dishes has a discharge line that can become loose. These are just several convenience devises that exist in the home that use water capable of flooding property when they fail. Water cleanup from an appliance malfunctionAnother common basement appliance is the water heater that allows for comfortable water temperatures for bathing and successful cleaning. Should a water heater bursts or even slowly leak, hundreds of gallons...
Emergency Water Cleanup Company – 6 Steps To Find The Best: LOOKING FOR THE BEST EMERGENCY WATER CLEANUP COMPANY? Has your home or business been assualted by unexpected water damage? Acting swiftly can minimize damage and eliminate worries about lingering moisture, and associated mold damage. Don't let a water inundation from a floor drain or broken pipe wreak havoc on your valued property – don't allow flood damage to effect the value of your home. Acting fast to contact an emergency water cleanup company is in your best interest. Each hour water is allowed to languish on flooring, walls and related materials the more damage is produced. CHOOSING TO DO THE CLEANUP OF WATER YOURSELF may seem like an exceptable option when only a small area of carpet may have become wet, however, a completely flooded basement is going to need a professional water cleanup company. Some earnest individuals will even attempt to remedy a sewer backup when it is much safer to contact a professional water rcleanup company. The professional restorer knows safety protocols and has the most efficiaet resources and products to navigate the restoration process to completion. Often carpet needs removal and other items such as furniture will require restoration services that only the experts are suited to provide. Action Extraction of Macomb County once was called out to evaluate a flooded basement that had its water source come directly from a sewer drain. The potential customer actually remarked on how they were considering doing the waste water cleanup themselves, but were too busy. What was actually present in the aftermath of this horrific water inundation was much more than just carpet needing water removal service. The basement was an actual infestation of germs and solids that can only be described as a water damage apocalypse the likes of which would make most mortals bristle with fear. The waste water with its horrid smells had migrated from a floor drain to reach all basement flooring throughout. Most grimace at the sight of human feces and used toilet paper remnants, but this customer almost seemed dissaponted they were too busy to do the water cleanup themselves. What a trooper. One has to give credit to those in life eager and willing to give a noble effort to press on, when most would flee in haste. Do You Need An Emergency Water Cleanup Company? If your home is in a flood damaged condition with water presently on flooring where drywall and other building materials are wet? Homes and businesses with water on flooring, drywall, and personal belongings need to be managed quickly and if this is your situation, you are encouraged to contact an emergency water cleanup firm ASAP. Professional restoration companies provide emergency restoration services 24/7 and are always the best option when making an insurance claim for the water loss. They know how to prepare the appropriate documents to smoothly navigate the claims process and get you your money fast. The Professional Water Cleanup Perspective Matters The perspective of the average property owner stumbling into a flooded basement or a room where the ceiling is dripping with heavy water is vastly different than that of a professional water cleanup contractor. They too would easily notice with the naked eye the same damage, but their experience will look for additional signs that suggest the true scope of damage. They may see the wood base moldings are badly stained, detaching from walls and showing mold growth. The cellulose materials that are replete throughout the water damaged environment such as paper and boxes may as well be showing mold growth. They will evaluate the exterior walls for moisture retention that often leads to mold growth and water staining. Lastly the smell of the environment is able to indicate the length of time materials have remained wet. In many cases the indoor air requires immediate air filtration to keep the occupants safe. Skills such as these can only come from years of experience and continuing education. Both of these are important in finding the best restoration firm in your area. Lets go through several steps to finding the best emergency water cleanup company with the best skills. Step 1. Locate a Highly Rated Flood Cleanup Company Usually the search for a water restoration company begins with the use of a computer or mobile device. The frenzied property owner might type into a google search bar the words, “flood cleanup company near me” and wait to see what comes up. After sifting through the crop of water restoration company options, they hope to find one that instills a measure of confidence. Finding the companies with the highest rating for customer service on multiple social media platforms is a great way to sift throught he options. You are best to consider the highest rated companies that have a proven record for customer service. Reputable water cleanup companies and for that matter any good service company is not difficult to find today when so many...
3 Types Of Water Damage: 3 Types Of Water Damage Often, when I’m working in homes, I’m asked about different types of water damage. It’s normal for homeowners to ask if their situation could have been worse. While every flood is a catastrophe in its own right, and for its own reasons, there are 3 types of water damage. Fresh water, storm or ground water, and sewer or contaminated water. Each of the 3 types of water damage holds its own power of destruction and mayhem, but let’s get into each type and how they differ when it comes to you and your home. 1) Fresh Water – Municipal Water Fresh water, also known as category 1 water is the cleanest of the 3 types of water damage you can have. Typically resulting from a burst pipe or overflow, fresh water is the easiest in terms of general health to clean up. While most items can be dried in place, such as furniture or drywall, fresh water can still be very destructive to your home. Most freshwater damage is the result of a failure in one or more parts of your homes plumbing infrastructure. Most commonly, we often find burst copper lines and vinyl supply lines to be the majority of our freshwater losses, though the occasional leaky dishwasher may also make an appearance. Due to the fact that freshwater damage is most often the result of failed or compromised plumbing, that water is under pressure from the main water line. This means that if no one is home or if the home is vacant, that fresh water will continue to pour in and saturate any building material is comes into contact with. Most often in our fresh water damage jobs, we find pipes in ceilings and walls that have proceeded to saturate whole entire levels of the home before falling into the basement to find more building material to damage. Fresh Water Damage – Worst Case Scenario Frozen DoorsAll water restoration professionals have that one project in the back of their mind that created damage so far reaching that they will never forget it, as it will always stand out as unique. Such is the case with a property we serviced during a very cold Michigan winter. We came upon a home that had not been visited in a few weeks due to the homeowners being out of the country while their home was up for sale. While they were gone the temperatures had dropped well below zero and their furnace had had enough and quit when they needed it most. The temperature drop resulted in 14 separate breaks in their copper water lines, saturating the entire first floor and basement and leaving an ice wall on their front door 4 inches thick! After chipping away and getting into the home we found fallen drywall and icicles hanging from the ceiling. While the water damage done was all fresh water, the scope of destruction and saturation forced us to completely gut the first floor and basement down to the very studs they were built on. While fresh water may be clean, it is often times the most destructive of the 3 types of water damage due to its tendency to be wide spread and pressure fed. 2) Storm Water – Ground Water Picture this, you’ve come home from a long day of work. You take off your coat, throw your keys on the table and go to let the dog out the back door. As you turn to walk back into the kitchen to grab yourself a meal you see your reflection in the basement floor, or maybe notice that the carpet seems to be a darker shade of gray than normal. As you descend the basement stairs it slowly hits you, your basement is flooding. As you run to grab your mob and bucket and get the plumber on the line you might stop to wonder what’s happening and why. Basement floods can happen for a plethora of reasons, but the most common is definitely storm water. Of the 3 types of water damage, storm water is typically the easiest to handle, if not the cleanest. Storm water damage typically happens when a sump pump has failed, when a cities storm system is overwhelmed or when a homes foundation is damaged allowing ground water to seep into the home. The most common that professional flood restorers tend to see are those related to sump pump failure. Sump pumps are submersible pumps that are installed in basements and help move storm water out of and away from a home’s foundations. The reason these pumps fail is innumerable. Some due to age and wear, others do to mineral or clay build up and still others may have a faulty float mechanism. When these pumps fail, the water building up around the home has no where to go and, using pressure from the water building up above it, is forced into the home through the sump well, cracks in the basements floor and foundation, or through the footer and the base of the basement walls. Another reason for a pump malfunction could be power loss, either from a blown circuit or a full power loss. Sump Pump Failure Prevention Regardless of how the malfunction happened it’s important to have your sump pump looked at by a plumbing professional every other year during a...
Protecting Your Home From Water Damage While On Vacation: How To Protect Your Home From Water Damage While On Vacation Vacation Without Fear Of Water Damage Many of the calls from frantic homeowners we get are from people returning home from vacation to find their homes in varying states of disarray due to unexpected water damage. You may be wondering how to protect your home from water damage while on vacation. The easiest solution to this problem is to employ a home sitter. Having someone in the home while you’re gone is the quickest way to avoid massive water losses while you are away. What happens when even this isn’t enough? What can you do as a homeowner to insure your property is safe while out of town from the 3 different types of water damage? Let us review a few different tips and tricks you can employ to ensure your return home is quiet and relaxing and, most importantly, dry. Check Your Supply Lines Any appliance you own that is water fed, like sinks, toilets and refrigerators will often times come with cheap plastic supply lines. An inexpensive switch to steel braided stainless-steel supply lines will lower the risk of line failure and leave you with a sense of security when out of the house. The vinyl supply lines are much less substantial in materials which makes them easily break, crack and develop small leaks. Often when refrigerators leak from faulty water lines the leak goes undetected till damages begin. Ceramic tile and hard wood flooring can become permanently damaged and result in a new floor being necessary. Home Sitters As we covered in the opening segment, having someone check on or stay in your home while you’re away is the easiest and best was to ensure that any water loss is caught quickly and treated immediately. While someone being in your home may not prevent water losses, time in a water loss is your worst enemy and getting to water damage issues quickly is incredibly important when it comes to the health and safety of your home. Although regular checking on the home is the best way how to protect your home from water damage while on vacation, it is important the chosen individual be instructed correctly. If they just open the door, stick their head in and conclude all is well because the place hasn’t been ransacked, multiple potential dangers could still exist. They should be instructed to make sure the electricity is working, the indoor temperature is the same as the setting on the thermostat and the basement needs to be checked for flooding. This is important as flooding can occur just as someone is vacating the home and unless the property is inspected daily, water damage can devastate if left for over 24 hours. Test Your Sump Pump Basement backups are never fun and often times incredibly expensive without insurance. It is important that your sump pump is working properly at all times but especially when you are away from your home. To test your sump pump, simply fill a 5 gallon bucket with water a pour that water into the sump well. This should engage your sump pump and your sump pump should pump all of that water out. It is also important to check the surroundings of your pump, as well as your float mechanics. A stuck float mechanic can cause the sump pump to run constantly, eventually burning out the pump and causing a failure. Alternatively, sump pump float can sometimes become stuck and never engage the pump at all, regardless of water level. Either of these scenarios can be devastating and allow a basement to flood in a vacant home. If you have a water backup system attached to your sump pump it will be important to also check the float system and ensure the water back up is operating properly by engaging the float and confirming the pump is working. Battery backup systems should also be tested to make sure the battery is charged and ready for service in the event of a power outage while you’re away. Making sure that your sump pump is in tip top condition can help to prevent a costly sump pump backup in your basement. Some home surveillance companies may also offer water damage sensors and alerts that can be helpful. If you have someone staying in your home while you are away, the most effective tool in preventing sump pump backups in our experience has been water alarms. These tools will act like smoke detectors for your sump pump, alerting you quickly to any sump pump failures and giving you ample time to call a plumbing professional or fix the pump yourself saving you thousands. Of course, this system will only be effective if someone is watching your home for you. Turning Off The Water – Best Tip How To Protect Your Home From Water Damage While On Vacation The best way to protect your home from freshwater flood losses while you are on vacation is to turn off the main water line to your home. By turning off the water main, you have taking a great step toward protecting your home from unexpected water damage especially during the winter months. In...
Sewer Backup Cleanup | Essential Steps for Success: WHAT TO DO AFTER A SEWER BACKUP Navigating Through Sewer Backup Cleanup Those who have experienced a sewer backup in their home may wondered to themselves, what next? Between worrying about lost personal items and the overwhelming smell of raw sewage, they may become unsure how to manage the needed sewer backup cleanup. If you are experience a sewage backup in your home or business, it is essential to act quickly to minimize damage and protect your occupants from illness. Most sewage disasters come from a basement drain and can fill your basement with hundreds of gallons of foul smelling water. Sewer backup cleaning is direly necessary to prevent you and your family from airborne germs that are pathogenic (causing sicknesses). Children as well as the elderly should be removed from the property till all sewage has been removed and sanitizing has taken place. Because sewer water is grossly contaminated, professional flood restoration service is better than doing it yourself. They will have the experience, resources and training to assure the air and all affected surfaces have been fully sanitized. If you however, are convinced giving a noble effort can achieve success, continue reading this article for essential steps for success. Things That Cause Sewer Backups Blockages Blockages happen in plumbing systems when something becomes lodged in the sewer line, preventing water from escaping the home. These blockages happen for many reasons. Grease being poured down the sink may coagulate into a waxy ball, collecting toilet paper and additional grease. Wipes, yes even the flush-able kind, can get stuck in your plumbing’s rough interior also collecting debris, blocking waste lines and causing a need for sewer backup cleanup. Tree Roots Tree roots seem to be the most common cause of sewer line blockages. Tree root systems stretch out 360 degrees around a tree as far reaching as the branches themselves. Any compromise or crack in the sewer line is enough for a tree root to be attracted to the moisture that finds its way from the pipe. In a matter of years these roots find their way into the sewage main itself, slowly blocking the flow of waste. Once any blockage begins, whether by root, wipes or grease the waste that once flowed freely begins to be obstructed. This is why sewers backup, waste no longer can be channeled from the property due to a blockage and comes up through a floor drain, toilet or sink. Sewer Backup From A Basement Floor Drain Sewage backups in basements are the most common type sewer backup scenario insurance companies receive calls for. A blockage has occurred somewhere in the system and back pressure results in forcing unwanted waste into the home. Sewer Backup Cleanup | Essential Steps for Success Protect Against Cross Contamination The first thing that needs to occur immediately after sewage enters the home is safeguarding against cross contamination. Lay down floor coverings or runners leading to your basement door so each time someone comes up they do not allow their feet to come into contact with carpet or hard surface flooring. Germs spread easily from shoes, touching contaminated surfaces with hands and even from clothes that come in direct contact with waste water. Carpets should be covered in plastic, including stairways that will be in used to assure the spread of germs is reduced. Heavy cloth runners are also great at reducing germ spread and can be purchased at a local hardware store. Assessing Damages After the floors have been properly protected, you will need to assess the damages by evaluating the size and scope of the backup. Sewer backup cleaning is only as good as the assessment of the actual area affected. Missing adjoining rooms, contents affected or building materials like drywall, base and flooring will compromise the success. Eyesight and touch are the only things needed to determine whether or not an item has been affected. Cardboard boxes and wood paneling typically give away any indication of moisture. Sewer damaged paneling must be replaced not restored. Drywall and cabinets, however, tend to hide their moisture content beyond what the eye can perceive. Professional restoration companies use non-penetrating moisture meters to determine exposure. You too may need the help of a moisture meter to correctly evaluate certain materials. If you don't own one, a local hardware stores should have one that is affordable. If sewage water has come into contact with drywall, removing wet drywall during flood cleanup will be necessary. Walls should be cut up 1' from the base if the water is lower than 12" and cut up to 2' if the water is over 12". Protective Wear Depending on the severity of the sewer back up in basement, you may consider covering your clothes with a disposable haz-mat suit or cover yourself in overalls. In even a less severe sewer backup cleanup context, you will need gloves up to the elbows, a face mask and googles so you...
10 Water Damage Restoration Tips, Tricks & Technique from a Contractor’s Perspective: 10 Tips, Tricks & Techniques from a Water Damage Restoration Contractor Top 10 tips on Water Damage Restoration Tricks & Technique from a Contractor Water damage can happen at any time to any home. While homeowners may take many different precautions to prevent water damage or intrusion, water damage is always at the back of you mind. While we cannot promise to prevent water damage from happening, we at Action Extraction have 10 water damage restoration tips you can use in the event of a water damage problem in your home. Tip 1. How to conduct a water damage restoration safety assessment When experiencing water damage, it is always important to decide whether or not your flood situation is safe for you and your family. Let us review some ways in which we can assure a safe environment. Decide if the environment is safe to enter. Check your surroundings for mold or contaminate growth. Those environments may not be safe for those with respiratory ailments or the elderly and infirm. If you notice growth of any kind, always wear the appropriate mask and filter. Check ceilings for sagging if the flood is happening from overhead. Water weighs 8 pounds per gallon and can easily compromise drywall to the point of collapse causing massive to anything underneath. Flooded basements over 8 inches are at risk of touching electrical connections and your flooded basement could be a tragedy waiting to happen. All flooded basements should be tested to electrical conduction when they are at or above this depth. Many water restoration technicians are hurt every year due to electrical problems that are easily avoidable. Even basements with as little as an inch of water are a safety hazard if electrical cords are under water. It is recommended to never enter a flooded basement prior to having it checked for electrical current. This can easily be done by any handyman or electrician who will utilize an instrument that will indicate precise measurements allowing you to know it is safe or not. If it is not safe and your electrical box is located in the basement the electricity can be disabled from outside the home allowing for restoration to begin. All wet electronics should be tested by an electrician for safety. You should never repair electrical that has been exposed to water and should always replace those items. Insurance companies will almost always cover an electrical evaluation by a licensed electrician. Tip 2. Be Skeptical Of tips, tricks and techniques from a self-appointed contractor You wouldn’t ask a butcher for a second opinion on a medical procedure, so why ask a handyman for water damage advice when a certified water restoration company is available and happy to help. While a handy man may know enough of the lingo and general idea of water restoration, it takes a crew of highly trained and experienced water technicians to take care of your water problem the right way. While the old adage, “if it’s on the internet it must be true,” may be a silly phrase baked in sarcasm, many frantic homeowners often turn to the internet to find answers to their water damage questions to discover not all experts are created equal. The most common problem when it comes to DIY water damage restoration tips is that they will often lead to mold growth. Mold must always be removed. Full stop. No, there is not a fool proof product that removes mold and keeps it gone. Mixing baking soda and vinegar with a dash of tea tree oil will not resolved the mold issue under your sink. Bleach will not remove mold either, often times doing the exact opposite of the intended result and encouraging further mold growth. Many DIY web blogs will also skip important steps and make claims about what can and cannot be dried while ignoring not only psychometric science but bacterial science and mycology. When appropriate you should always use a certified water damage restoration company which brings me to my next point. Tip 3. Water Volume Should Decide If You Can DIY Damage Restoration Some water damage projects can be done from home without the assistance of a water restoration team, but how do we know when it’s appropriate to handle these jobs on our own? The amount of water should be your guide on most, but not all, water damage projects. Water damage that is contained, small and may only need water removal from carpet, can be often managed with a shop vac and small commitment of time. When there is solid flooring such as cement or ceramic over cement, can typically be extracted and left to dry with a fan under most circumstances. Any water that has reached or rests against a wall made of panel or drywall will require assistance from a water damage restoration team as well as any sewer water damage of any severity. Significant flooding will not go away on its own no matter how hard you work. Many of our customers only call us after spending entire nights with a shop vacuum trying to...
How To Stay Safe After A Basement Flood: How To Stay Safe After A Basement Flood Staying Safe During A Flood It’s every homeowner’s worst nightmare. Flooded homes are the second most common insurance claims made by homeowners every year. Over a 20-year period the chance that you will experience water damage to your home in some shape or form is almost 100 percent guaranteed. So, what do you need to know about how to stay safe after a basement flood? Let us review what you should do immediately after discovering a flooded basement, and the different ways flooded homes can be dangerous to you and your family. First Things First The first thing you should always do when you discover a flood in your basement or anywhere in your home is to call a local reputable highly rated water restoration company. A good restoration company will be able to walk you through all of these steps quickly and coherently in the event you do not have this blog handy when you need it. The flood technician on the line will be able to inform you of the potential dangers of the flood you are dealing with and what to expect in the days to come. Never Enter A Flooded Basement Electrical Dangers In Flooded Environments Flooded basement can be danger zones in more ways than just one. While some flood jobs can be hazardous to your health, a newly flooded basement can be infused with electricity from wet appliances or shredded power lines. If your homes electrical box is located on the first floor of your home, you may shut down power to your home if you absolutely have to enter your basement but it is always safer to allow the professionals at Action Extraction make sure your basement is safe to enter. There is never a good plan for restoration if electrical concerns are not fully addressed. Homeowners insurance will always pay for the cost of an electrician to make sure all is safe. There is no way to stay safe after a basement flood if you get electrocuted because you didn’t make sure it was safe. Chemical And Organic Dangers In Flood Water When it comes to basement floods you may also be dealing with highly toxic and contaminated water. By walking into a sewage water backup environment, you are exposing yourself to millions of potential viruses and bacteria, as well as likely transferring that contamination throughout your home when you exit your basement. To be able to stay safe after a basement flood yo need to be aware of the dangers you do not see. Germs, molds and other potentially harmful microorganisms abound in sewer water and ground water, so even though you cannot see them, they are a real and present danger. It is highly recommended to call a professional restoration company and ask what to do after a sewer backup. The professional restorer will use haz-mat suits and boot coverings, as well as respirators and gloves for their own protection and disposable floor coverings to protect the inside of your home as well. Remove The Water – The Sooner The Better Once the water has been deemed safe to venture into, it is important to go around the basement and evaluate the damage to contents and building material. Your flood team should be actively removing water from your basement using extraction machines or, if the water level is high enough, submersible sump pumps. We have personally worked on flooded basement projects with water up to 6 feet high requiring the use of submersible pumps over hours and hours. When the standing water is finally removed from your home, all electronics should be either disposed of or evaluated by a certified electronic restoration crew to determine whether or not that electrical item will become a hazard. Often times water damage done to electronics only reveal themselves months and years later. Many homeowners place personnel contents in plastic totes to protect valuables from a flooded basement in the event that floor drains backup. While this is a great way to prevent water from coming into contact with water, it is important to still evaluate the items in the tote. Because they are plastic they may acquire a crack allowing water to intrude and affect the contents. If they are wet remove them from the storage tote and clean as necessary. Create A Drying Protocol Behind every great victory there is a great strategy. To stay safe after a basement flood you must have a great strategy. Adopting structural drying techniques and exposure principles will be the most important step you need to take to keep you and your family safe. In the event of a flooded basement it is best to work with a certified water restoration company to make sure your home is dried quickly and safely. Fungi of all types require water, food and oxygen to grow and thrive. Your home is the equivalent of a Vegas buffet when it comes to food sources for mold to feast and multiply on. Any cellulose item can support tens of thousands of mold spores when introduced to water and time. This can be drywall, certain types...
How To Dry A Hardwood Floor After A Flood: Drying A Hardwood Floor After A Flood Drying A Hardwood Floor After A Flood When your hardwood floor gets soaked due to flooding, it is urgent that you dry it as quickly as possible. If the water is left standing on the floor or if moisture remains trapped in the floor, extensive damage can occur that may result in the entire floor needing to be replaced. Residents of Southeast Michigan have contacted Action Extract to help them with their flood problems for over 30 years. Drying a hardwood floor after a flood requires knowledge, labor and the best commercial equipment available to do the job correctly. The following steps will help you assess whether you prefer to call a professional or do it yourself. Remove The Standing Water From The Hardwood Flooring. The first step in drying your hardwood floor is to remove the standing water. A wet/dry shop vacuum and several towels will work well for that purpose. Based upon the type of the water and how long the hardwood flooring has been wet will determine if additional service is required. A pitcher of spilled fresh water quickly cleaned up should not be considered the same as a leaky water supply line that may have been leaking for days. In situations where many gallons of water have migrated throughout the area of hardwood flooring to equally deluge to a level below, a professional restoration firm should be called out to evaluate the damages. Wet hardwood flooring is such cases can permanently become damaged if specialty drying chambers are not immediately set up and left running for several days. Clean The Floor With Safe Chemicals This is especially true if the water has languished for several days as stagnant water will collect contaminates that should be eliminated so they do not spread or amplify. Remember preventing health threatening growths, such as bacteria and mold, from spreading is as important as drying the hardwood floor. This is especially true if the water has languished for several days as stagnant water will collect contaminates that should be eliminated so they do not spread or amplify. Remember preventing health threatening growths, such as bacteria and mold, from spreading is as important as drying the hardwood floor. If the seams are needing special attention than using a toothbrush with soft bristles can really get in those small places and effectively clean away dirt and grime between the boards and in corners. Drying The Hardwood Flooring The next step in drying a hardwood floor after a flood is to dry the hardwood and the sub-floor beneath it. This step is next to impossible if the water is actually deeply trapped in the hardwood flooring and entombed beneath the flooring and sub-floor. If the flooring is buckling or cupping this is a warning sign you only have a limited window of opportunity to save the flooring. These evidences are an indicative of a worst case scenario and professional specialty drying equipment needs to be employed immediately if restoration is the goal. The following instructions on drying a hardwood floor we are providing would only be effective if the water did not deeply penetrate the hardwood and did not get to the sub-floor. If the damages are only superficial then the following step could be effective at restoring the hardwood floor. You can place a fan under the sub-floor and another on top of the floor, and open doors and windows to help circulate air. A dehumidifier can also be used to help the wood dry faster. It may take several days for the floor and sub-floor to dry completely using these methods. Signs The Hardwood Flooring Needs Professional Drying Water causes hardwood floors to swell. If the floor is not dried quickly enough, it can result in cracks, buckling or cupping. Buckling occurs when the hardwood planks pull away from the sub-floor. Cupping occurs when the center of the board dips down and the edges curl up. If the flooring does buckle, it may be necessary to remove some of the hardwood planks to relieve the stress that can cause more extensive damage. This is not for the faint of heart and consulting a professional water restoration company such as Action Extraction may be the better option. If the hardwood planks do not buckle, and they go back to their original flat shape after drying, all that may be necessary is to resurface and re-stain the floor. If only a few planks have buckled, it may be possible to replace those planks and then refinish the entire floor. In the best case scenario the aesthetics have not been compromised and the original beauty of the floor has been restored. Take Pictures Of The Hardwood Floor Before And After It should be noted that, before you begin the process of drying your hardwood floor, you should take pictures of the flooded areas should you decide to make a homeowners insurance claim. If you are inclined to go forward with insurance at the onset, it is highly recommended to allow the...
Should I Buy Flood Insurance: Do I Need Flood Insurance Do I Need Flood Insurance? Homeowners flood insurance is often nuanced and difficult to understand. For many the insurance they thought they had should flooding occur actually didn’t exist. If you believe you need flood insurance to provide the protection against flooding than continue reading as we will describe the reasons that possibly may indicate you do not. You may discover you need flood insurance in the event that community flooding occurs as this is different than water damage that happens in the home. The aftermath of hurricane Katrina brought this subject of flood insurance to the forefront as many hundreds of homeowners attempted to file claims and were subsequently denied. They were convinced their worries over cost of repairs would be offset through insurance, but they were disappointed to learn they did not have insurance for this type of flooding. Hurricane Katrina is just one of the many natural disasters that have occurred, causing thousands of homeowners to lose their homes due to flooding. Knowing, for certain, whether or not your home is insured against flooding should be a priority for all homeowners. If it is not you will need flood insurance to help cover the cost for rebuilding should your home become victim to community flooding. Things To Know About Homeowners Insurance There is a difference between water damage in the home and flooding that is caused by nature. Water damages, such as happens when a water pipe breaks, hot water heater burst or toilets overflow are sudden events that happen in the home and are usually covered in a homeowner’s policy. This type of damage is often listed in the policy and is under the dwelling protection. From the standpoint of the insurance carrier, municipal water that is part of the function of the home and when it creates flooding in the property would be part of the home. Water Damage And Flooding Are Considered Different When water damage exist properties will need a water damage restoration company to remove the standing water, cleanup and set up equipment for drying such as air movers and dehumidifiers. Once complete structural drying has happened then the repairs can begin to rebuild the damaged home. This type of flooding is typically covered in a homeowner’s insurance policy and will allow funds for the water mitigation process and the repairs. This is not what the insurance companies recognize as flooding. Flooding is when a property is suddenly assaulted from water without the home itself and makes it unlivable. That is drastically different than water damage from within the home from municipal water you pay for each month. Flooding that destroys property with water from outside the home is caused from high water from external forces and are not spelled out in a policy. If it is not specifically stated in the policy that you are protected against such events, chances are you are not protected. Many homeowners simply assume that they are covered for flooding events when, in fact, they are not. Reading Your Insurance Policy For Coverage There is only one way to know for certain if your home is covered for flooding and that is to read your insurance contract. Your homeowner’s policy should state what you are protected against and if you do not find community flooding you will need flood insurance to sleep soundly at night. If you read through your policy and do not see any reference to flooding, it is not covered. As mentioned earlier these documents are difficult to understand and a conversation with your agent could be helpful. Prepare several questions to address to make sure you are satisfied you have had all your questions answered. Are You Covered For Basement Flooding? Flooded basement cleanup is very common in the Southeast Michigan communities. Drains backup after heavy rains, water heaters can leak and any water damage from a level above will ultimately deluge down to affect the basement. Do You Need Insurance For Community Flooding? So do you need flood insurance if you do not have it already? That is a question that only you can answer. There are many areas in the country that are “prone to flooding” and are designated as flood zones. If your property is in one of these locations known to flood you would be much better off having the insurance to help rebuild your home after flooding, should it happen. Those who live near any body of water (lakes, rivers, dams, oceans) should consider having insurance in the event a natural disaster happens. Heavy rains can force water out of their areas and cause flooding at any time. You need to be protected against financial ruin if your home is decimated and becomes uninhabitable. Those Who Need Flood Insurance If you want to add flood insurance to your property but cannot find it available in your area or for your home, you can go online and research the federal programs that are set up for...
Water In Basement After Rain: Water In Basement After Rain Water In Basement After Rain Finding water in a basement after a heavy rainfall is every homeowner’s worst nightmare. Whether you have a finished basement, full of carpet or laminate, drywall and many other styles of building material, or just a plain cement Michigan basement, knowing what to do and who to call in the event of a water loss due to rain is essential. Getting professionals like the ones at Action Extraction located in Macomb MI out to your home in a timely fashion is the first and most import ant step you can take to combat water in your finished basement. Let’s talk about the ways in which rainwater can have a negative effect on your home and basement, and how to tackle this frustrating problem, quickly and safely. Water In Basement From A Failed Sump Pump When properties get water in basement after rain, the water has many varying modes of entry into your home that you should be aware of. The most common entry point of rainwater is through your sump pump. Action Extraction handles hundreds of sump pump calls every year. How does a sump pump fail? Sump pumps work to remove water from your basement and out of your home. The pump is typically placed into a pit dug into the foundation of your home, also known as a basin. The pump comes equipped with a float which, when elevated to a predetermined level of your choosing, activates the pump sending water through a discharge line to a designated water drainage area. It is important that your pump be inspected every few years by a professional to maintain integrity and performance of your pump. Now that we know what a sump pump is, let us talk about why they fail, resulting in a sump pump back up. Sump Failure Due To Electrical Failure One of the most common reasons for sump pump failures actually has nothing to do with the pump itself. Often times we experience sump pump backups when there is a loss of power combined with heavy rainfall over a significant amount of time. Without a proper battery back up system, sump pumps are useless without the electricity required to power them. Battery backup systems for a sump pump are something to consider when analyzing your homes inherent risk of sump pump backup. They can be instrumental in preventing water in basement after rain. Sump Pump Failure From A Faulty Float When the float that is attached to the sump pump becomes stuck, it can render the pump useless in two ways. The firsts way this can affect the pump is through not allowing to the pump to engage in the first place. Sump pumps are made with metal and plastics. Metals can rust and plastics can carry mineral deposits left behind by evaporated water. When the pump itself has not been properly maintained, these deposits can collect on the metal line that engineers the float into action. When the float is unable to reach the required height needed to trigger the pump mechanics, the pump will never engage, and water will begin to invade your basement dwelling. Conversely, when the pump is allowed to engage but the float is not able to descend back into the basin it can result in a sump pump being left to run indefinitely. While this may not seem like a big deal, a sump pump left to run on its own without water can quickly burn its motor out and render it ultimately useless. Sump Pump Failure From Wear Sometimes, however, the answer is just time. Sump pumps are like any other appliance in our homes, and eventually they will cease to work as they used to. Our ovens and dryers however do not cause catastrophic damage when they retire fortunately, which is why consistent wellness checks on your sump pump and all home plumbing is important for the health of any home. Check Valve Issues Some basement water backups involving sump pumps are not the fault of the pump itself. Every sump pump should come equipped with a check valve attached to its discharge line. A check valve allows water to pass through it in one direction but not the other. Often times sump pumps are pushing water from depths of up to 14 ft up and out of your home. To avoid redundant water pumping, check valves make sure that the water being pushed from a sump pump basin stays out of the basin and does not just return back into the well. The only thing keeping water from coming back into the well inside the check valve is a small plastic piece acting as a gate. When this gate fails, the sump pump will struggle to push enough water from the basin and out of your home. If there is enough water invading your home while the check valve is non-functional it will result in a flooded basement and the potential for a burnt-out pump motor. Improper Installation Finally, incorrectly installed check valves are also problematic for homeowners. In this scenario, some poor handyman or rushed plumber will have installed the check valve in reverse. What this means is that water will not be allowed to leave through the...
What To Do If Your Basement Floods: What To Do When Basement Floods What To Do When Basement Floods Flooded basements are the last thing on a homeowner’s mind. Between making sure the kids are off to school and all the bills are paid, worrying about your basement is not a top priority. That means that when a flood issue does occur, many homeowners are put into a critical position. What to do when your basement floods? In this blog we will talk about the steps and calls you need to make as soon as you find a flooded basement that will make sure your home is protected from water damage no matter the cause. Call The Right Team The very first thing you should do when your basement floods is call the team at Action Extraction. The water technicians at Action Extraction have each handled over 1,000 floods individually, and your water loss problem will be no problem at all. When you call Action Extraction, you are calling a business with over 40 years combined experience in water damage restoration, certified in all structural drying and mold remediation. Why is calling Action Extraction important? Water is a destructive force regardless of its form. Raging rivers carve out canyons through landscapers. It is suggested that a glacier moved through what is now desert, carving out the Grand Canyon. While we do not expect raging rivers and gigantic glaciers to be found within your home, standing water can be just as devastating. Water in your home, if left untreated, is a breeding ground for nefarious microbes and bacteria to thrive in. Saturated building materials push moisture into the air, raising the relative humidity and the dew point, the point at which material will condensate. When critical mass is reached, around 65 percent, walls and ceilings will begin to soak with moisture pulled directly from the air. Incipient (just beginning to exist) mold will form around 48 hours of the introduction of water to a food source. While some factors, such as sunlight and air flow, may extend the time before mold is present, after 48 hours any certified water restoration company must assume the presence of incipient mold. To avoid having a costly mold mitigation project on your hands, it is important to have a qualified and knowledgeable team working with you to monitor the health of your home. Call Your Insurance So, you have called Action Extraction and our van is backing into your driveway, now what? Now is the time to call your insurance company and make an insurance claim for water damage. Not all basement water backups will be covered under your homeowner’s insurance so it is important to have your insurance papers ready for our team to review with you when we arrive. We are specialist at getting the cost of cleaning up a flooded basement when insurance coverage exist. Let us go through some of the potential insurance loss coverage plans. Almost all water that passes through a municipal line and into your home will be covered automatically under your home’s insurance policy. That means that water spewing from a hot water tank, clothes washer, copper supply line or any other freshwater leak will be covered, 100 percent. Even a toilet or tub overflow related to human error, as in forgetting the water was running, is covered. Water that enters your home through a storm drain, sump well, or sewer line is considered a water backup. These claims almost always require a special addendum to your policy, in the form of back up of sewer and storm coverage. This style of coverage is typically capped, and policy caps can range from as little as 2,500 dollars to as much as 25,000 dollars. Unfortunately for many of the homeowner’s we speak to every day, they do not realize that they are under covered until it is far too late. Call your agent today to make sure your home is covered adequately in the event that you experience a water back up. Never Enter A Flooded Basement. Now that you have called Action Extraction and the flood team has arrived, and we have taken the time to confirm coverage, it is now time to access your flooded basement. You should never enter a flooded basement unless you know a few things for sure. First, you need to be sure that your flooded basement has not reached a high enough level to make a connection with any power sources. Water levels above 12 inches must be tested for an electrical current before being waded into. Every year, dozens of emergency service workers are harmed walking into waters that were not properly accessed as safe to enter. After making sure your flooded basement is not electrically charged, it is important to access which category of water you are dealing with. There are 3 categories of water loss, one, two and three. Category 1 water losses are freshwater losses, clean water coming from municipal lines are common sources for category 1 water losses. Category 2 water losses are caused by ground water and lightly dirtied fresh water. Category 2 water is safe to...
Contacting An Electrician After Flood Damage: THE VITAL ROLE OF AN ELECTRICIAN AFTER FLOOD DAMAGE If your property has experienced flooding and water may have come into contact with the electrical, you might need to employ the services of an electrical contractor. When you contact an electrician after flood damage you are optimizing the restoration results and managing an important detail some completely forget about. Water and electricity do not mix! Having flood damage in your home or business should alert us to the potential dangers that could be lurking under the radar. Security after a water damage emergency is a significant variable. Water and electricity do not blend well and are a volatile and potentially life threatening combination. Most are concerned about germs after an emergency sewage cleanup and damaged personal items thathat get wet. However, wet electrical systems are dangerous and can effect the value of your home if not addressed promptly. It can be an abundantly unsafe scenario if your properties electrical wiring as well as electric system has been splashed by water or had come into contact with moisture. When this occurs during an emergency water inundation, the mitigation company should always contact an electrician after flood damage for an inspection. Importance of Professional Electrical Inspection During Flood Damage At the time of the initial flood restoration evaluation it needs to be determined if water has come into contact with electrical outlets and wiring. While it may be a tempting consideration to assess the damage yourself and attempt the DIY approach, evaluating wet electrical components requires specialty equipment and skills. The naked eye is incapable of seeing moisture in wires and outlets making the expertise of an electrician after flood damage, the best option. Wet electrical systems need to be evaluated by a certified electrical contractor. Contacting an electrician after flood damage should not be neglected because hidden damages could be a lurking problem waiting to manifest. The licensed electrician possesses the knowledge and skills to conduct a thorough inspection, identify hidden dangers and can provide the necessasry repairs. Their experience allows them to identify dangers that may not be immediately apparent to the novice. When an electrician arrives after flood damage they will be equipped with scientific instruments that allow them to see if there exist compromises in the efficiency of the service. They should not only evaluate the direct area where the flood damage manifested but also the circuitry as well as the main curcuit board. Contacting an electrician after a flood may discover a potential catastrophic issue to be serviced. This could spare your home from an electrical fire. Here are several compelling reasons to hire a professional electrician after flood damage. Risk Assessment: Electricians are experienced and highly trained in their profession. They will evaluate the risk and assess the extent of water damage to electrical systems and components. Their inspection will determine any related risks and properly write them up for your insurance company for financial compensastion. Skilled electricians will recognize any compromised wiring, outlets, and electrical panels as being directly damaged from the flood water so repairs are covered by insurance. Code Compliance: Electricians are well-versed in local electrical codes and regulations that may vary from city to city. They will even be able to write up for code upgrades so your home is in compliance with new standards. Preventive Measures: An electrician after flood damage can recommend preventive measures to mitigate future risks and incorporate such details in the insurance claim. One of the most common of these is raising all electrical outlets to a height above potential flood levels. Thorough Inspections: Electricians use specialized tools along with moisture detection equipment to conduct their inspections so they are more comprehensive. They can uncover and even pinpoint issues that may not be immediately visible, and prevcnt long-term future damage to your electrical system. Additional Reasons To Contact An Electrician When Water Exist When the electrician is on site they understand it is imperative that some troubles with the electrical energy of your property will need to be removed and replaced completely. This is an obstackle to an insurance carrier unless the electrician in detail explains the reason. The experienced electrician after flood damage will make their case strong and irrefutable. ONLY A LICENSED ELECTRICIAN should do the evaluation of your electrical service, not just a handyman. If the proper evaluation is not performed potential hazards may go undetected and lurking future dangers could still exist. Not to mention the fact that anything conducted by a licensed electrician is of greater influence than a handyman service. This matters if your insurance adjuster assigned is...
Things To Know When You Have A Water Damage Emergency: Water Damage Emergency 5 Steps In Managing A Water Damage Emergency A Post By Action Extraction Restoration Of Michigan Emergency water removal Professional sewage disaster cleanup Sump pump failure restoration Broken water pipe damage Structural drying Water Damage EmergencyWater damage emergencies are one of the most common insurance homeowners claim made each year in the US. Flooding from rivers and streams, broken water pipes, storm damage, sewer backups and sump pump failures can occur at any time. Water damage is one of the most serious home emergencies a property owner can face. Other sources that threaten properties with flood damage come from our appliances of modern convenience. Dish washers can overflow, leak and flood a kitchen. Refrigerators can have a broken supply line, ice maker or water dispenser that malfunctions allowing unabated water to travel throughout a home. Quick Remediation When A Water Damage Emergency Is Discovered Is Critical Just as with a fire it is important to distinguish it quickly to save property, so does quick water removal after flooding reduce damages and prevent further property damage. All water damage emergencies have one thing in common. Acting fast to remove water reduces damages and added repair cost. The fact that water damage is considered an emergency means it is recognized as a serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action. Allowing water damage to remain without action compounds damages and ultimately will cost more in repairs. If a water damage emergency strikes a home, business or commercial property a clear plan for mitigation needs to be introduced immediately. Flood mitigation contractors specialize in responding as soon as possible when a water damage emergency manifest. Hesitating a day or two before property restoration begins will result in wet carpet delaminating, wet dry wall to perhaps produce mold and structural integrity to be compromised. Most property owners are not prepared for a water damage emergency except for calling the professionals. This is all one needs to do when damage water is found. Professional Emergency Water Damage Restoration Action Extraction of Macomb Michigan is a 24 hour emergency water damage restoration and repairs company that knows the value of immediately responding to water damage. Each year we are called by property owners, renters and property management companies to remove water, cleanup, restore and repair after flooding. When distressed clients call they are connected live to the owner who will go over cost for water damage emergency cleanup and/or immediately dispatch one of our restoration teams. Once on-site one of our IICRC certified professionals will begin water removal using a truck-mount extraction system that quickly eliminates standing water. 4 Essential Steps When Water Disasters, Sewer Backups And Water Damage Emergencies Happen 1) Human Safety First – Keep Safe When Water Is Present Often when water damage emergencies assault property, people are unaware of the dangers that are present. Even a small amount of water can make hard surface floor slick and a slipping hazard. Even if the hard surface flooring is dry, when you walk on wet carpet, your shoes are wet and likely to slip on ceramic tile or smooth flooring. The contamination level of the water can be threatening to human health if it is from a floor drain. Sewer backups, sump pump failures and stagnant water will be heavily contaminated and human health can be at risk. For instance sewer water has potentially up to 81 viruses that may bring illness to occupants and should be taken seriously. However, if the amount of water is minimal and a DIY attempt is to be considered, wear rubber gloves, waterproof boots and protective clothing. After the water has been removed and the environment is ready for cleaning, use a disinfectant on all affected surfaces. 2) Electrical Hazards From Water Water damage emergencies inundate property with water and as it migrates throughout a room it picks up dirt and debris. Water itself doesn’t conduct electricity, but the impurities that are suspended in the water make it highly conductive to electricity. When sewage water comes into contact with electricity or even ground water the dangers of electricity are present. Water and electricity dangers are a real hazard when they come into contact with each other. If the water is only an inch deep with an extension cord end lying in the water, electrocution is possible. When severe water disasters such as a flooded basement happen and there is 1’ of standing water, you must take precaution. You should not walk in the water as the potential for electrocution is high. In such cases a professional water restoration contractor should be called out. In some cases the electricity will need to be disconnected from the property before emergency property mitigation...
5 Ways To Prevent Mold In A Bathroom: 5 Ways To Prevent Mold In Bathroom 5 Ways To Prevent Mold In Bathroom Mold is a fungus that grows when conditions are acceptable for its existence. Bathrooms are the most common area where it is found because of the moisture potential. Mold is always unwanted so learning how to prevent mold in a bathroom is the best way to learn how to prevent mold anywhere in your home. Mold growth in a bathroom or anywhere in your home is often visible to the naked eye, but other times it is hidden in areas out of site. In the inside of a drywall wall, on the surface of a subfloor that regularly gets wet or even on window sills covered by a blind. Bathroom mold and mildew are concerns that many homeowners have had to confront at some point. Often seen on a shower wall that gradually becomes darker with each use and other bathroom surfaces mold can be easily remedied. Preventing mold in the bathroom is fortunately an easily achieved outcome when certain things are done to eliminate the environment that causes it. Here are 5 easy ways to prevent mold in the bathroom. Following these suggestions will help achieve a bathroom free from the fungus that grows in so many. 1) Adequate Ventilation Will Prevent Mold In A Bathroom. Each time someone uses the shower or takes a hot bath the humidity dramatically increases. This increase allows for a moisture rich environment where water vapor clings to surfaces. Over time these wet surfaces will allow for fungus to grow. Many enjoy the relaxing benefits of a long hot shower, but lack of appropriate ventilation creates the perfect storm for mildew and mold. Having ventilation allows water vapor to be managed allowing for a mold free bath room. The way to successfully have ventilation is by having a fan or vent placed in the bathroom ceiling. If you have and use a bathroom ceiling fan already, it may need to be cleaned allowing for more air flow. If it is already clean, than consider having a more powerful one put in its place. Another way to assist the air flow is to open a bathroom window during a hot shower or bath. This will allow an additional amount of less humid air to neutralize the heavy effects of a high moisture rich environment. 2) Regular Mold Inspections Can Inform You Of Potential Problems. How can you know if you have a mold or mildew issue if you don’t know what to look for? Knowing what to look for will help you identify a problem. Performing regular home inspections can help you locate a mold issue while they’re still small and easy to remedy. With regular inspections you can prevent mold in a bathroom from becoming a large mold issue later on. 3) Regularly Move Shampoo And Other Shower Bottles To Keep Them From Trapping Moisture Most store their shampoo and conditioner in the shower. During the shower however, water gets on the surfaces where the bottles are placed. Or unused bottles get wet and water migrates down becoming trapped under the bottle. This trapped moisture will be a haven for mold and mildew allowing for its growth to thrive. This mold growth will be small and unnoticed at first but over time will become conspicuous. Practicing regular movement of your bottles or placing them on a wire breathable rack can help prevent mold in bathroom. When air is allowed to get to moisture it can easily evaporate and disappear. 4) Don’t Leave Wet Towels Or Rugs On Bathroom Floor. Most have a bathmat on the floor outside of their shower to prevent slipping or acquiring water puddles. Over time water can migrate beneath these rugs and towels and mold growth will easily set in. After each shower move the mats and towels to see if water has gotten underneath. If so, wipe up the water and place the mat back. Wet towels should be placed in a laundry hamper for future washing. 5) Allow Natural Light In Bathroom. Mold needs several essential things in order to grow and develop. The ingredients that allow mold to grown and manifest ate high moisture content, stagnant air and the absence of UV light. Allowing natural lighting in your home is an incredible way to keep your home sterilized naturally. UV lighting is responsible for cleaning many invisible and harmful intruders from the air. Keeping regular natural lighting will aid in reducing and even preventing mold in bathroom. Mold growth might be a regular bathroom incidence, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take the recommended steps to help prevent mold in bathroom. As always, make sure to contact mold remediation experts if you do discover bathroom mildew growing in your home. Action Extraction of Macomb is a mold mitigation contractor serving all southeast Michigan. They provide mold damage removal, cleanup, mitigation and sanitizing...
10 Tips To Prevent Water Damage In Your Home: 10 Tips To Prevent Water Damage In Your Home 10 Tips To Prevent Water Damage In Your Home Common Sence Tactics To Keep You Home Dry Many are shocked to discover that water damage in your home is one of the most common insurance claims made by homeowners next to wind and hail damage. Water damage cost for repairs are such that if pays to learn how to avoid it all together. Webster’s dictionary defines the word prevent as: to keep from happening or existing. Considering how devastating water damage in your home can be, it would pay to learn tips to keep it from happening. Following through with these suggestions can allow your Macomb home to stay dry and free from water damage. 1. Service Toilets That Keep Running. After flushing a toilet you will hear water running for a few short minutes. This is normal as water needs to once again fill the water tank to allow for additional flushes. However, if you intermittingly hear the water comes on and off repeatedly, that could indicate a potential for water damage in your home. What is happening is your toilets water tank is not keeping the full amount of water needed as it is leaking through the seal in the tank. As water level diminishes the float slowly moves down and engages to allow the lost water back in. This issue can in some cases lead to water damage in your home and should not be left as is. The fix is easy. Look at what brand your toilet is and get a repair seal kit at your local hardware store and replace the seal. This will allow for the water to stay in the tank and work as manufacturers intended. 2. Fix All Plumbing Leaks As Soon As You Find Them All homes have plumbing that eventually needs servicing due to leaks. A sink faucet, a drain, a valve that slowly drips or a hot water heater that leaks occasionally. No matter what the size of the pipe or problem even the smallest plumbing leak can cause massive amounts of water damage in a home. Eventually these small leaks turn into fast moving water that can easily flood several rooms of carpet in your home. Like a small crack in a dam, pressure over time can make a violent flow of unabated water. This is not even mentioning the humidity and moisture that water brings with it. High humidity can allow for mold growth, mildew growth, bad smells, dry rot, floor buckling and other damaging effects on property. Invisible and unwanted microorganisms can even cause germs to fill the air you breathe. Keeping in mind that homeowner’s insurance carriers only cover damages that are sudden and accidental, they may not cover a water loss you could have prevented. Damage that results from lack of maintenance is not covered on a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. The fix is easy. When leaks of any sort are encountered, quickly have them repaired. Many of these small repairs can be DIY while others may require a plumber or handyman to fix. 3. Set Water Heater Level No Higher Than Hot. Water heaters have a dial that allows you to set how high you want the water temperature to be. The “very hot” setting places undo wear on the hot water heater and can shortens its lifespan. When water temperatures are very high the heat forces metals to expand more than it should and water leaks can occur. The fix is easy. Keep the setting no higher than the “hot” setting which is almost always more heat than is necessary for washing clothes/dishes or bathing. 4. Regularly Inspect Your Appliances. Water using appliances are a marvel of the modern age and a convenience few would want to do without. These appliances however, can be responsible for water damage in the home. Each year insurance providers are inundated with water loss claims from washing machines, dish washers, refrigerators and hot water heaters. Many times the water damages could have been avoided with routine inspections of the appliances. The fix is easy. Each month do a walk-through of your property and evaluate your appliances. Make sure you don’t see any standing water on the floor, dripping parts, or a cycle malfunctioning. Equally important is the seals that allow appliances to not drip during use. Check the dish washer seal to make sure no water is lost during cycles. Follow the instructions manufacturer’s put on each device while doing so. 5. Regularly Clean Your Gutters. Storm damage, heavy rains and tree leaves falling in the fall can damage or compromise your gutters. These mechanical systems are great when they work at diverting rain water away from your homes property. When they are clogged or malfunction the water can stay on the roof or backup under your shingles causing water damage in your ceiling or attic. Severely obstructed gutters can even cause deep pooling where heavy water can run down the side of your brick or siding and get in through walls. Water damage from ceilings and water damage from a wall are types that can be difficult to find. In some cases the...
Emergency Water Removal: Emergency Water Removal Water Damage Requires A Rapid Water Removal Response When a water damage emergency occurs it is often a dangerous situation requiring immediate action. Every minute counts as waters energy is destructive and can also be hazardous when electricity is involved. Matters grow exponentially worse every 24 hours that water remains on materials. Emergency water removal is required if you intend to keep carpets from delaminating, hard wood flooring from warping and dry wall from potential mold. Emergency water removal is the first necessary step to correct the impending destructive consequences that could occur. If mold and mildew growth are already present then the likelihood of mold spread to even dry areas of the property are likely because mold spores traveling from room to room and ventilation systems. If your home or business is in need of emergency water removal then act quickly to avoid the affects that could soon manifest. If the amount of water has flooded a basement completely or several rooms are covered with standing water, than you need the professionals at Action Extraction. We have water removal pumps and commercial truck-mount extraction systems capable of completely eliminating all water in a short time. Emergency water removal is as close as a phone call to Action Extraction. Our IICRC certified technicians can be on-site in 1 hour or less to begin the extraction process to remove water. When emergency water removal is addresses immediately the damages from water are greatly reduced and the restoration of wet building materials can begin. Our highly trained professionals can begin the water removal process immediately upon arrival. Depending on the amount of water, they may use a powerful vacuum system that removes water with an extraction wand. In some instances a powerful submersible pump is the better option to begin the emergency water removal process. When a thorough water extraction is achieved with one of our superior extraction systems, Action Extraction can greatly reduce the drying time and help to prevent mold and secondary water damage. We give strict compliance to the highest standards in the industry for professional water damage restoration. Each of our commercial trucks is equipped with state-of-the art water extraction systems, drying fans and dehumidifiers as well as moisture testing equipment. Whether the flood damage emergency is a few square foot of wet carpet or a fully flooded floor of your home, we will handle every water damage scenario conceivable. Water Extraction Process – Rapid Action Required Like any field of applied science, the emergency water removal process involves several essential steps. Step 1) Emergency Contact Once flood damage is determined to be on a scale requiring professional assistance, individuals may type in a google search, “Emergency water removal near me”. It is important that the prospective restoration company have experience and good reviews from previous customers. This is where the professionals at Action Extraction stand out like mountain peaks from the competition. We have provided disaster restoration services for over 30 years and have the highest ratings on google, yelp and yellow pages in all Southeast Michigan. When we receive a call for emergency water removal it is answered live by the owner who can answer your questions or dispatch a local team of certified experts. Your emergency contact is always answered live and once our restoration team is dispatched, they will arrive in 1 hour or less. Step 2) Assessment Of Your Property Damage. We give a free inspection of your property which will determine the cause of the water damage, its source and the type of water damage. Knowing these facts is essential in creating the unique plan of action to bring about complete restoration. Water damage can be immediate and extreme, as it is in the case of a natural disaster or a broken water pipe. Water emergencies can also be slow having been ongoing for an extended period of time. Each water removal emergency will have its own set of unique circumstances. Our experienced experts will determine all this with the use of cutting edge scientific moisture detection meters. The evaluation will also determine the category of water damage which varies from project to project. We have sophisticated techniques to manage each type of water disasters a property can experienced. There are 3 categories of water damage which are defined as clear, grey, or black water. Our crew will immediately diagnose what category of flood damage you have allowing you to know the severity of contaminants that may be in the water. Clear is usually from a fresh water source like a plumbing system with minimal contamination. Grey and black water are usually from ground water and sewer backups and are hazardous to human health. On these projects germ elimination must be part of the mitigation...
Water Damage Restoration Service: When Is Water Damage Restoration Necessary & What Should You Do? Some days are more challenging than others, but most will not be as grim as dealing with water damage in your home. Water from a broken pipe, drain backup or roof leak can mess with you like few other obstacles can. It will definitely be a day when “clouds hung oppressively low in the heavens” to quote Edgar Allen Poe. First you need to answer the question, “where did the water come from”? Once you locate the source, you’ve just begun, as there are a multitude of other things you will be addressing before the day is over. The amount, scope and type of water will naturally answer the inquiry to, “when is water damage restoration service necessary? In most instances water damage restoration service should be entertained as an option because it requires little water to bring to fruition dangerous molds and mildew in the home. Several Questions That Follow Finding Water Damage In The Home Where did it come from? Is this disaster covered by my homeowners insurance? Who’s going to cleanup all this mess? How long is this going to take? Will my house ever be the same? These few are just a sampling of questions that cross the mind as a frenzied whirlwind leaving one confused and frustrated over what to do first. That is the reason behind the post you are reading. I want to help you navigate the high seas of water damage and get you safely to the shores of soundness and sanity. I am going to let you have access to my frontal lobe and perhaps other areas of my brain (scary) that have acquired adept skills at dealing with flooding of all types. My 32 years of experience will help you determine if you need water damage restoration service and how to go about making it happen. Additionally there are really only 3 things you need to do to achieve peace of mind and restoration success. Boarding this train of 3 stops will be enough to manufacture peace of mind and naturally answer almost all your questions, most without even being asked. Step 1) Find The Source Of Water And Stop It If You Can. This is perhaps the most intuitive step like bracing for a fall if you slip on ice. It will be natural to embark on a frantic exploration of all things plumbing in your home. This will lead you to check each bathroom, kitchen, laundry room, utility room, hot water heater etc. Don’t forget to investigate floor drains and refrigerators as well which are sometimes overlooked. In a few minutes you should have discovered the culprit for the unwanted presence of water on the floor, walls or ceilings. Shutting your water off at the main in most cases stops the flow of running water. However, please be sure water has not come into contact with your electrical because some classifications of flood damage are best left to the professionals. For instance if you have water pouring down from a ceiling affecting light fixtures, electrical outlets and switches the potential for electric shock exist. In this case the benefits of DIY are outweighed by dangers of electrocution and you need to immediately back off. You definitely need water damage restoration service from a professional in these cases. Upon their arrival they will implement all safety guidelines dealing with electricity keeping occupants and pets safe from harm. Step 2) Call For Water Damage Restoration Service. This is not as intimidating as it may first appear. The internet is not just a morass of evils where the dark side lures the unsuspecting. It is also a fountain of helpful information ideal to locating a reputable water damage company for the assistance you desperately need. In a google search type in the words, “water damage contractor near me” or a related search including the name of your city. The results will show several companies which are at least legitimate businesses that provide water damage restoration service. Once you have a tally of candidates the next step will be to weed out the incompetent allowing you to discover the best company for your needs. Companies that have no reviews eliminate from consideration, it’s a blind date and your flooding issue is enough to deal with. Look for companies that have 5 star reviews. Read what others have to say about their competence and attention to customer service. Lastly check out the best candidate on other ranking platforms: google, yelp, yellow pages, Facebook etc. If they have multiple sources that vouch for their competence than you can at least contact them to discuss your flood damage issue. If they represent themselves as professional and trustworthy you may want to consider going down the same proven road others have for their water damage restoration service. Example Of Search Results Looking For Water Restoration Contractors. As an example when you type into a google search, “Water damage restoration Service in Macomb”, my company Action Extraction Inc comes up...
What Does Water Damage Look Like: What Water Damage Looks Like Identifying The Common Signs Of Water Damage Water can produce tremendous damage to your property in very little time. Knowing the early warning signs of what water damage looks like like can prevent a disaster of monumental proportion. Noticing an open window in your home after hearing of an approaching storm will naturally have you close it to protect your home from water damage. What if there were conspicuous early warning signs that you could be aware of that could be like closing a window on water damage. The purpose of this post is to introduce several things to regularly look for that can spare you the nightmare of unexpected water damage. Sometimes Water Damage Has No Detectable Warning Sign. Plumbing issues like a broken water supply line may have no early sign of compromise until it breaks. If water runs unrestrained for just an hour, your property will be devastated. Water will quickly migrate from the point of intrusion to multiple rooms in just minutes damaging everything in its path. Those who have returned home from vacation to be greeted by a pond of water in their living room know of the power and fury of water. It destroys flooring, dissolves dry wall, condensates on surfaces, can decimate a finished basement and produces harmful molds. While the description above is what most would assume water damage looks like, it also can exist in stealth, revealing only small traces of its impending destructive intention. In these rare instances it remains undetected with no common signs to tattle on its unruly presence. No puddle on the floor, water stains in the ceiling and no mold found on surfaces. Water damage from a broken pipe or drain backup usually has no early warning sign to herald its approach. They just immediately and unexpectedly show up like Cousin Eddie in Christmas Vacation. However, that does not identify all water damage scenarios that exist. Hidden Water Damage Is Hard To Identify Home property inspectors are notorious for being inept and fumbling the ball when it comes to inspecting homes for water damage. Either they don’t know what to look for, miss the early warning signs or both. Not being equipped to know what water damage looks like is another folly that makes many inspectors useless. Arriving for a home inspection without possessing scientific moisture detection meters is a reason to ask them to leave. Our professionals at Action Extraction are called upon regularly to evaluate properties homeowners just purchased. The reason is fear and suspicion about water damage, mold and is it causing a dangerous living environment for them and their family. They detect bad smells, see suspicious water stains and wonder if this is what water damage looks like. What Water Damage Looks Like – Hidden Signs Of Its Presence Don’t expect the evidences to be conspicuous, but knowing what to look for can be a flashlight to aluminate hidden dangers. Being proactive to immediately notice the early warning signs can keep your home safe and free from a catastrophic water damage nightmare. Additionally, treating each issue as it manifest will keep the cost of restoration and repairs down because you are taking preventative measures to stave off the damages incurred from water damage. 3 Signs You Could Have Water Damage & What To Do If You See Them 1. Visible Changes In Flooring, Walls, Or Ceilings The presence of water in a material will change how it looks over time. If you notice a change in the appearance of your flooring, walls, or ceiling area this could be a sign of moisture or water. Noticing early warning signs can save you from a disaster. Wet plaster will change in color but not necessarily show a water spot. Wet walls may only show a faint stain in the walls base molding. But these signs can be noticed when looked for. Any moisture found on carpet or any new staining on dry wall can be a sign of hidden water damage. We at Action Extraction were called out to a unique incident in Shelby Michigan once. As we walked into the living room we observed ruin on a scale seldom seen in our industry. An entire plaster coved ceiling had completely detached from its perimeter, falling violently as one large slab onto the room below. The descent was substantial crushing all furnishings below. Tables were destroyed, windows were broken, glass was everywhere and a baby grand piano was crushed. The inimitable sight required an explanation as the rest of the home was immaculate and there was no water to be found anywhere. The gentleman told me he installed a bathroom mirror in the 2nd floor bathroom about 2 weeks earlier. He mentioned as he struck a nail in the wall to secure the mirror he heard and felt the nail hit something hard he feared could have been a copper water pipe. He explained because he didn’t hear water running or see water stains below it must have been something else harmless. Unfortunately...
Proven Flood Damage Methods To Restore Property: Flood Damage Restoration Methods That Work Flood Damage Restoration – Macomb County There is only one thing that remedies the shock of encountering water damage in your home. Complete restoration with new building materials, carpet, paint and whatever else required repair. Until then something just doesn’t feel right because complete recovery is left pending. Specialists in the recovery industry employ flood damage restoration methods that work quickly and efficiently. Witnessing the joy on a customer’s face upon project completion makes the satisfaction of a jobs conclusion, just that much greater. Flood damage restoration will restore a home’s once cherished condition when tried and true principles are used. Contamination, mold, mildew and other microorganisms are easily eliminated and order restored when the right flood damage restoration methods are used. The range of service will deeply depend on the class and category of the resulting water damage. Service may be slight with a simple water extraction from carpet or a complex structural drying process with reconstruction. What Is Flood Damage Restoration? Flood restoration is an applied science that relies on producing rapid air movement for water evaporation and humidity removal through dehumidification. It is this cycle that removes water from your home and restores it to a livable, pre-damaged condition. The process needs to begin as soon as possible to keep the property free of mold growth and bacteria. Standing water, wet materials and high humidity is the ideal environment for such dangerous microorganisms to thrive. Building materials like dry wall, carpet and flooring when exposed to water are capable of producing an environment at risk result in allergic reactions, illness and other adverse health effects. Flood Damage Restoration Methods Can Be Complex Water cleanup is not always a routine endeavor, but sometimes will be a complex and challenging task. It is usually more involved than mere water extraction and applying a germ killing agent. Water often gets trapped in walls, insulation and other porous materials. Especially difficult is attempting to dry wet ceramic tile, which is the most difficult thing to dry. Water gets trapped between the cement and wood subfloor making specialty drying techniques necessary but with no guarantee of success. Some Flood Damage Restoration Methods Will Not Succeed. In some cases, materials may be destroyed beyond the scope of restoring making replacement the better option. This is often true of carpet, dry wall and insulation as they can harbor mold and other dangerous germs which will create more significant problems. The professionals at Action Extraction follow the IICRC Standards for restoration and recovery which weighs the benefits of drying a material against the need for replacement. In many cases it is better to remove and replace a wet material than to dry it out. If contamination is suspected in any wet material than drying should not be considered, replacement is always the better option. IICRC Certified Flood Damage Restoration Methods The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration and Certification (IICRC) is the governing body that has formulated the standards for adequately restoring a water-damaged property to its previous orderly state. Only certified firms that have undergone specialized training are equipped to manage all stages of flood damage cleanup. Action Extraction serves Macomb County and all southeast Michigan as a certified firm following industry standards to ensure your home is dry, clean and safe. IICRC Qualified Firms Can Manage Flood water removal Sewage cleanup Mold removal and mitigation Storm damage repair Complete structural drying Basement flood restoration Mold mitigation & cleanup Sump pump failure restoration 24 Hour emergency flood recovery Evaluation & Insurance estimates The Flood Damage Restoration Method When a water damage incident such as a broken, frozen or burst pipe floods property, a rapid response is critical and should be demanded of a restoration company. We at Action Extraction are on call 24/7 day or night to manage any and all flood emergencies when they happen. We answer your call LIVE and can answer any question or dispatch our emergency restoration team of experts. From the moment we receive a call for help we are committed to an arrival time of less than 1 hour. Our 5 Water Damage Restoration Steps Free Inspection and evaluationWater RemovalCleaning and SanitizingStructural Drying with DehumidificationRestoration and Repair Each advancing step in our restoration process is designed to maximize the results ensuring that all water and contaminants are eliminated completely. Here Are Our Detailed Flood Damage Restoration Steps Step 1: Free Inspection And Evaluation We provide a thorough damage assessment of all water damaged...
Cleaning Up A Raw Sewage Mess: Raw Sewage Cleanup Sewer Water Contamination Recently Found Worse Than Expected When floor drains backup in homes from sewage systems there immediately arise multiple concerns. What kind of germs have entered the home, are they dangerous to human health, who’s going to do the raw sewage cleanup and ultimately will insurance cover the cost for cleanup. Until recently biologists have identified several thousand different viruses in sewage. The latest research on sewer water however, from the American Society for Microbiology has revealed new troubling information. Apparently the thousands of viruses biologist have determined were in raw sewage systems, was off by a staggering amount. A recent article exploring the contamination in sewage has found it to be replete with thousands of new undiscovered viruses. This makes raw sewage home to the most diverse array of viruses ever found. The potential for illness in humans is greater from sewage water than anything else known. Raw Sewage Has New Dangers Previously Hidden This new information is especially troubling to flood restoration companies that facilitate the removal, cleanup, sanitizing and restoration of sewage damaged properties. They often are placed in the awkward position of explaining to homeowners that the sewer backup they considered a DIY remedy is actually much worse than they thought. We have to do this without sounding like a pushy salesman trying to scare and scam them into a costly professional raw sewage cleanup. Those of us in the property restoration industry know what a challenge it is to tell people the truth without sounding like a feigned alarmist motivated by greed. Now this new report reveals our presentations have actually watered down and the raw truth (pun intended) as things are worse than we thought. Science has spoken and the truth needs to be told as to how harmful a sewer backup actually is. The Truth About Viruses And Raw Sewage Cleanup Viruses are everywhere like molds and we humans come into contact with them on surfaces, foods, water and often the very air we breathe each day. Many are said to be “benign” because they cause little or no threat of disease. The ones that are harmful are described as virulent because they do cause illness. When properties have a sewer backup the viruses are considered pathogenic because they can cause illness to humans. Human waste, chemicals, gases and bacteria are no friend to human health and knowing the dangers is not a reason for fear but a call to action. Quick Restoration After A Sewer Backup Is Critical Any sewer drain backup should be addressed immediately as the home or business is in a state of emergency. Each hour sewer gases and other potentially hazardous germs are left to languish they gain potency to affect the air itself. Once this occurs it is a matter of time before even un-affected safe spaces in the home will equally be affected by the fetid influence of the sewage water. This is why raw sewage cleanup must begin as soon as possible. Action Extraction Specializes In Sewer Water Cleanup And Sanitizing The professionals at Action Extraction respond to emergency water damage 24/7 day or night. Our IICRC certified professionals are dispatched immediately when you call and arrive in 1 hour or less of your call. Upon arrival we implement all necessary steps to assure human health and effective raw sewage cleanup. We extract all standing sewer water with commercial truck-mount extraction systems, apply plant based anti-microbial agents and high pressure steam clean all affected surfaces. Indoor air is managed with an air with filtration system that will remove bacteria, molds, germs and viruses. New Information Makes Raw Sewage Cleanup Even More Necessary The new information about viruses the study cited above has revealed, makes it clear we had a limited understanding of the germ universe we lived in. To date only about 3,000 viruses have been identified but over 320,000 different viruses are believed to exist that infect mammals. New information reveals the answer to, “how many viruses are found in sewer water” is now believed to be undetermined. Our understanding of the tiny fraction of viruses known makes it clear we need to be cautious about the others unknown. There is no better way to do that than to make sure raw sewage cleanup is managed under the most stringent guidelines for safety. Raw Sewage Cleanup Under IICRC Standards The governing body of raw sewage cleanup is the IICRC (Institute for Inspection, Cleaning, Restoration and Certification). They provide the training for high risk cleanup and offer certification to the restoration companies that meet their requirements. We at Action Extraction have been an IICRC certified firm since 1988 and have undergone extensive training in the field of microbiology and microbe elimination. Each year we manage the complete restoration of sewer contaminated homes...
Water Damage Services Near Me: Water Damage Services Near Me Distressed Property Owners Look For “Water Damage Services Near Me” On The Web Water damage and flooding account for the majority of calls insurance carriers receive for property claims each year. After a heavy rain, google search engines are inundated with the search term, “water damage services near me”. Quick action is intuitive and searching the net for “the best water damage services near me” or a call to an insurance provider, are both a common call to action when water emergencies strike. Here are a few other sound starting points that are equally recognized as a call to action you might consider:Call a friend or family member for assistanceExplore Facebook and other social mediums for guidanceSearch the internet for DIY tips and resourcesContact employer to inform they will not be in todayAll the above The Call To Action Is The First Step To Property Recovery Finding water where it shouldn’t be such as 6″ in a basement will provide all the motivation needed to act, even if the action is less than suitable. The point is there are no perfect calls to action other than taking action itself. When a water damage emergency arises it proves what our grade teachers taught regarding the words of Newton. “For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction.” The action of water damage manifesting can take many routes, setting the stage for a corresponding reaction. THE ACTION A toilet overflows and soaks several rooms.A hot water heater ruptures flooding a basement.A frozen pipe burst and runs for hours before it is shut off.A sump pump fails and floor drains backup.The drain system clogs, backing up with raw sewage.An appliance malfunction spills water everywhere.A roof leak introduces water through the ceilings. The list could go on ad nauseam as water taking the path of least resistance has yet to exhaust its many ways to exhibit water damage in the home. Now let’s look at the human response or the resulting reaction. While the first may be, being brought to tears due to the unneeded toil and stress, the curative and logical actions soon follow. THE REACTION Water Damage Services of Remediation Must OccurSoon after flooding and water damage assaults a home or business things get so disruptive measures must be taken to avoid mold, smells and further damage. Naturally water like fire is understood to be a destructive energy that left to itself will create more damage and a higher price tag for restoration. When water damage services are not implemented quickly secondary damage will naturally occur as high moisture levels will add to the risk for mold and germ spread. High humidity will easily wick into drywall, plaster, hardwood floors, carpets, wood structures, wood substrates and even furniture. Water Removal Must Begin As Soon As Possible Standing water or wet carpet and pad must be removed and then any wet building materials must be completely dried quickly. In as little as 48 hours water can begin to produce mold spores. Typically the mold remains invisible for several days but will become noticeable in several days. Here Is An Article On Mold Removal And Mitigation The professionals at Action Extraction located in Macomb Michigan are available to provide emergency cleanup and fast water extraction. We are a 24/7 emergency service provider with over 3 decades in the property restoration industry and manage every type of water damage category in the industry. Fresh water restoration or raw sewage cleanup we have the tools, experience and education to quickly restore flooded homes and businesses. We can restore any residential, commercial or industrial water damaged property quickly, efficiently and by the IICRC standards for Mitigation and remediation. Many Macomb County property owners have discovered us when they typed into a search bar, “water damage services near me.” Our 5-star rating on multiple media platforms has earned us recognition as a highly trusted property restoration company in Macomb County and all Southeast Michigan. Water Damage Services Cost For Restoration Repairs In many cases water damage restoration repairs are covered by your typical homeowner’s insurance policy. Action Extraction works with all major and discount insurance companies and because we use the same software, estimates are always in line with company policies for billing. Once a claim number is established we immediately send over all necessary photos and documentation to expedite the payment process and get you your money FAST! Our water damage restoration technicians have been extensively trained in all matters insurance and are ahead of the curve when it comes to managing each step forward to keep the process moving. In some instances flooding may have limited coverage or no coverage as all. Basement flooding from a drain backup for instance may or may not be a covered loss. Insurance...
Who To Call For Damage Water Repairs: Restoration Contractor, Plumber Or Water Proofer – Who To Call Who Should You Call – Restoration Contractor Or Plumber? Years ago a song by Credence Clearwater Revival asked the question, “Who’ll stop the rain? The question many ask when rain or other water sources damage their home is, “Who to call to repair the damages?’’ Should you call a restoration contractor or plumber. Who should you call when various water issues arise in your home? 3 Primary Sources That Can Cause Water Damage In The Home Plumbing Issues Broken / frozen / pipeRupture in a water supply lineLeaky pipe or P-trapDrain clog with backupSewage Backup Mechanical Issues Burst hot water heaterSump pump failureSeptic tank failureSewage BackupRadiator heat system leakToilet overflow or malfunction Appliance Malfunction Dish washer leakWashing machine overflow or leakRefrigerator supply line or system leakDeteriorated appliance seals Who Do You Call When Any Of These Water Issues Manifest – Restoration Contractor Or Plumber? If you discover water in your basement or crawl space you have a problem requiring attention. Knowing who to call will help avoid unnecessary confusion and potentially save you money. Calling the wrong person could add confusion and begin a downward spiraling affect that could cost you dearly. Do you call a Restoration Contractor or Plumber? Here is a real life example. Calling the Wrong Contractor Can Cheat you Out of the Best SolutionYears ago Action Extraction was called out to evaluate a home for water damage. The homeowners discovered a leaking supply line to the refrigerator that has affected the carpet in their living room adjacent the kitchen. Previously looked at by a carpet cleaner, his recommendation was to place a fan on the carpet and once it was dry he would come and steam clean it making it once again fresh and worry free. This could be nothing from the truth as my evaluation would demonstrate. First I used a non-penetrating moisture meter and learned the water had wicked into the dry wall 12” up from the base and that small area of wet carpet was actually 30 sq. ft. When the carpet was pulled back we discovered mold growth on the tackles strip. Equally shocking was the amount of moisture found in the ceramic tile of the kitchen that could only be discovered with moisture detection instruments. Lastly we learned that the water had deluged into the basement below affecting ceiling tiles, dry wall and carpet. These materials had been languishing wet and stagnating for over a week and what the carpet cleaner said would be fine with a steam cleaning ended up being an insurance claim that included dry out and new materials; new kitchen, multiple rooms of carpet, dry wall replacement and half of the house painted. Calling The Right Contractor Matters. Our real world example is not an irregular scenario as it occurs often when property owners are undecided as to what professional to call when water issues arise. Knowing the specialty of each contractor can help you know who to reach out to in a time of crisis such as a basement flood or leaky dehumidifier. A restoration contractor or plumber, who to call first? Making the right call can save you time and will potentially save you money on repairs. Here is a list of several contractors homeowners typically call when specific water related symptoms manifest on their property. This brief general description of what they do will help clarify their specialty. 1. Water Restoration Contractor A restoration contractor is trained in water damage and drying techniques that allow for fast and efficient drying of wet building materials. They can determine the source of water as well as the category and class of the water damage. They are specialist at mitigating the damages created in property from water and getting the property dry. They use specialty equipment for finding moisture in building materials and will place various pieces of commercial grade equipment to achieve drying. They specialize in the art and science of drying called “Psychrometry” and if certified can be relied upon to safely manage the oversight of any wet property. They will be capable of achieving the specific goal of complete structural drying, assuring there will be no mold or harmful germs that exist during or after service. A water restoration contractor will also be familiar with the insurance claims process. They will take the necessary photos to document the damages as well as manage moisture mapping and all other related documentation insurance carrier require. You should always call a water restoration contractor if you have standing water in your home but also if you discover mold. Mold is a dangerous spore that travels and migrates from one location to another. Contractors not familiar with the nature of mold and its spread may make things much worse. Often when mold is discovered a plumber or...
Frozen Pipes Water Damage: Frozen Water Pipes Can Cause Grand Scale Water Damage Michigan is known for it's extremely low winter temperatures often in the teens and below. During such cold conditions, your properties plumbing may run the risk of frozen water pipes. When temperatures drop unusually low water supply lines are vulnerable and at risk for freezing. Water lines that are in areas of a home that are susceptible to cold drafts are especially at risk. If temperatures fall below 32 the water will begin to freeze expanding the pipe by over 9% increasing the pressure on water pipes. If it cracks or burst water will soon violently spray unabated till it is found out. By then the damages can be tremendous and devastating. The professionals at Action Extraction are familiar with frozen pipes and water damage flooding. Each winter season we receive calls from property owners that have discovered water damage that resulted from a frozen water pipe. Often they are away in other States keeping warm and the damage is discovered by a family member that checks in on the home every few days. Does Homeowners Insurance cover frozen pipe damage? Homeowner’s insurance policies typically cover frozen pipe damage when it is related to “sudden and accidental” discharges of water from a plumbing source. Some people wonder, "can water pipes freeze underground and is this covered as well?" Although this is rare, your policy would also include underground pipe damage as well. Water damage from frozen pipes usually qualifies as “sudden and accidental.” However, if your insurance carrier’s investigation reveals utilities were off at the time of incident, than coverage may be withheld. That would be seen as an irresponsible act which could preclude coverage. No water damage scenario is good; however there is a silver lining when insurance companies confirm coverage for the restoration and repairs. The type of destruction properties can incur related to frozen pipe water damage can be tremendous costing thousands in restoration and repairs. Knowing what do you do when your pipes are frozen is essential if reducing damages and cost are a concern. When Coverage Exist Your Homeowner’s Policy Should Provide Funds For: The cost to access the burst pipe, such as tearing out a wall. In some cases it is important for the plumber to bill with line items making a distinction between parts and labor, as some insurance policies will not cover parts. The insurance provider will fully cover the water damage restoration and repairs to your damaged property in most situations when the water loss is well documented. ADDITIONAL COVERAGES ASSUMED BY INSURANCE CARRIERS: Structural drying of any wet building materials, electrical repairs if water came into contact with wiring or electrical fixtures & switches, plumbing repairs related to freeze damage, new furnace if damaged by water, new hot water heater if water damaged, additional living expenses if you are unable to occupy property due to the extent of the damages, cost related to how to unfreeze water pipes. Tips On Preventing Frozen Water Pipes And Water Damage If you have cold areas of your property that could cause water pipes to freeze you need to follow through with several tips that will prevent freezing. While there are techniques on how to repair a frozen pipe, it is best to avoid such service with prevention. Place additional insulation over exposed water pipes in cold areas of home. Place a fan to direct warmer temperatures to cold areas during extreme low temperatures. Pipes located in crawl space, basement, attic, or garage may need a space heater. Pipes in cabinets under a sink close to an exterior wall may need to have doors left open. Set furnace thermostat to continuously maintain indoor temperatures of 65 degrees. Open faucets to allow slight dripping that releases internal pressure if ice forms. Leave cabinet doors beneath kitchen and bathroom sinks open to allow household heat to reach pipes. Repair any known leaks such as pipes with leaks or that have cracks. This exposed water during the winter cold will be sure to freeze and expand causing more substantial damage and potentially flooding. Signs You May Have Frozen Water Pipes And What To Do Loss of water pressure at one or more fixtures can indicate a frozen pipe. Turn the hot water valve of the faucet on to see if it thaws the pipe establishing full pressure. If there is no pressure at all chances are there is a freeze that has potentially swelled and broken or ruptured the pipe. If this has occurred it is best to turn the water off to the home and contact a plumber. They should know how to unfreeze water pipes before extensive damage can occur. If the pipes thaw out under pressure than water from any broken pipe will quickly inundate your home and cause water damage. If there was a break, slowly reestablishing water pressure after thawing out the water pipes will have water squirting from it somewhere in the home...
3 Things About Water Damage Repair: 3 Things About Water Damage Repair 3 Things About Water Damage Repair When Looking To Purchase A Home. The story goes like this: “I just purchased this house and within a week of moving in began to notice water puddles on the kitchen floor, water stains coming through the paint and bad smells are now lingering everywhere”. Congratulations you have just purchased a property in desperate need of water damage repair. But it’s not your fault! The surreptitious sellers conveniently showed the property when no rain had fallen for days, hid the water stains with a fresh coat of paint and placed air fresheners throughout the main floor. Weeks later after several days of rain the once hidden evidences show up like a softball through a picture window. Hidden water damage is like a nest of hibernating snakes that eventually awaken after lying dormant. Once discovered the unpleasant surprise will require attention and funds you don’t have. Water damage repair can range from affordable to needing a line of credit from your bank to afford. If there is pervasive mold discovered, you definitely will need the line of credit. Failure To Notice The Need For Water Damage Cleanup Is Common This catastrophic case sited above is repeated time and time again as would be purchasers of “the home of their dreams” are scammed into buying the “home of another’s nightmare.” Without going into the legality of going after the sellers and involving the courts to bring about an equitable settlement, I want to focus on water damage repair itself. There are ways to recognize what water damage looks like, what water damage is and what to do about it. 3 Tips About Water Damage Repair Consider the following tips about water damage repair and you will become more adept and prepared to navigate the options when it is recognized. These tips can save you thousands and unnecessary headaches as an added benefit. 1) Before Making An Offer On A House Inspect It On A Rainy Day A house may have great curb appeal, all the square footage you were hoping for and be priced right, but you need to be cautious. We all have heard the wise idiom, “You can’t judge a book by its cover”, which is a saying to caution one of the folly of judging solely on appearance. You can be wise without being a sceptic of a good deal. The evaluation for signs of water damage, mold or other potential water related hazards is just a way to confirm a good deal. In some cases your finding will be like letting the wind out of your sails, as the deal was an illusion only. But there will be plenty of other homes without the headache of water restoration and repairs. Why On A Rainy Day? Remember the inspection is to be done after it rains as this will show if any water issues result from water falling on the roof or collecting at its foundation. Upon entering the property after rain has fallen, look for spots, shadows and discoloration in the paint of all the rooms. Take a non-penetrating moisture meter with you that you either bought at a hardware store (usually under 50.00) or rented from a water restoration supply company. Place it on any spot that looks suspicious and if it reads moisture, you may have uncovered a problem. Inspecting Overhead Look up at the ceiling of each room looking from water stains, spots or discoloration. Ceilings exposed to water damage are especially at risk because gravity. The integrity of the ceiling could compromise and ceilings can begin to sag with the potential of modest or complete collapse. The water source could be a bathroom or kitchen above or from the roof itself allowing water to trespass each time it rains. The water damage repair required in a ceiling leak can be expensive encompassing beam replacement, insulation replacement as well as mold removal and cleanup. Moisture in a ceiling will almost always be accompanied by mold due to wet dry wall being food source for mold. Add to this the wet materials lingering in a dark space without UV lighting and you have the recipe for mold growth and mold spread. Inspecting The Basement A basement is a haven for water damage repair and can often be easy to find with the naked eye. If the basement has a sump pump evaluate the surrounding area for water staining. Look at the base of all the exterior foundation walls to see if water stains are crying out for attention, as this will definitely be evidence of a water issue. If the basement has a fresh coat of paint at the base of all the walls this could be a way of hiding the water stains. Sump pump water backups are notorious for leaving water stains at the base of the walls. If the basement is finished look at the base of all the walls for water stains. If the walls have base moldings, inspect the base to see if the caulk line is cracked in multiple areas that would indicate they were once wet, swelled and finally contracted. If all the moldings are cracked and detached there...
4 Ways To Find Mold In Your Basement: 4 Ways Of Finding Mold In A Finished Basement Mold In Basement A Common Problem One great advantage of purchasing a home with a basement is the benefit of having extra space for holiday decorations, seasonal items and maybe an area for some weights to create a small home gym. However, some people frown on the idea of a basement at all because they can be damp environments that occasionally smell and they fear finding mold in finished basement. Or worse they could have mold but not know how to find mold in the basement. Some will even wonder, “Can mold in basement affect the upstairs?” Why Most Are Willing To Risk Finding Mold In The Basement – For Extra Space Most individuals however, are willing to risk potential smells, dampness and even finding mold in the basement for more space. Life has a way of bringing extras into the home you don’t necessarily want to place in a furnished room or next to a refrigerator. These items are better stored in a basement and easily brought upstairs when and if needed. Boxes of important documents, old pictures, sentimental items like completed school projects and babies first shoes and jammies. Having extra usable space from a basement brings increased homeowner satisfaction due to the greater organization one achieves over contents. Less clutter and more room for decorations and fine furnishings on the main floor can be a tremendous plus, especially as a family grows in the number of children or pets. The Benefits Of Having A Finished Basement The greatest advantage to having a basement occurs when it becomes a finished basement. Any property search that finds the added accoutrement of a finished basement will make that property more market valuable; sell quicker and for more money. Finding or owning a home with a finished basement allows for additional living space for recreation, relaxation and play. Who doesn’t want a nice area for the children to play or an attractive decorated room with seating space equipped with a large screen TV and surround sound? Add a pool table with a well-stocked bar and your home may be nominated by family members for hosting the annual Christmas party. Go one step further and add a home gym with mirrors and exercise equipment and you may become the envy of your neighbors. Challenges Of Having A Finished Basement The upside of owning a home with extra space for most will outweigh the fear of finding mold in a finished basement. That is not to say getting mold in a finished basement is not a challenging concern. Finished basements with all their benefits do present a greater challenge if mold develops because it has multiple areas to hide. Unfinished basements with bad smells will generally be easier to detect mold in because the walls and flooring are not hidden by dry wall and flooring. Mold can hide behind dry wall, base moldings, paneling and other surfaces like flooring and even cabinets. This can make finding mold difficult and many homeowners have asked for advice on, “how to detect mold inside walls” and “how to get rid of mold in the basement”. Here are 4 ways of finding mold in a finished basement – without destroying your home. 1. Visual Inspection Of Surfaces. If you have had basement flooding in the past or noticeable seepage from rod holes or foundation walls you may find mold in your finished basement with an inspection. Mold usually starts with some type of water intrusion that allows moisture to absorb in building materials. Many such materials in a finished basement like dry wall, paneling, wood base moldings and studs are organic and will act as a food source for mold growth. Add several days of these materials being wet and the absence of UV lighting and mold will easily manifest its ugly head. Look at the base of all dry wall for suspicious spots and on wood base moldings for water stains. If you see alarming black growth or spots of varying colors it is almost certain you have mold. Open doors and look at the door jams to see if there exist water staining. Check all your base moldings to see if they are detached from the walls and a noticeable space is between the base and dry wall. These are additional clues you may have had a water issue that has caused mold. While evaluating surfaces in the basement don’t overlook flooring that may have water damage. Look for warped planks if you have laminate flooring, or water staining if you have carpet. Your inspection should include taking your hand to the base of any cabinets and slide your hand to see if the cabinet is smooth or feels grated and swollen. It only takes mold 2-3 days of continued high moisture content before it begins to germinate and reproduce. Eventually the mold source will begin to produce offspring known as mold spores that can travel throughout the basement. Many question, “Can mold in basement affect upstairs” and the unfortunate answer is a resounding yes! 2. Removal Of...
How To Remove Mold In A Basement: How To Remove Mold In Basement Step By Step Guide Mold in basement is typically a problem, but learning how to identify trouble areas, prevent and control mold development, you can avoid the costly and dangerous spread of basement mold. If you have a mold infestation in your basement, it is important to clean it up and remove the source of the moisture. This blog post will discuss how to clean and remove Mold from your basement. If you have a mold infestation in your basement, it is important to clean it up and remove the source of the moisture. This blog post will discuss how to clean and remove Mold from your basement. What Is Mold? Mold is a type of fungi that grows in moist and damp conditions. There are many kinds of mold – all of them need water or moisture to grow. Some are not considered hazardous while others like black mold are toxic. Molds are often found in places like basements, showers, refrigerators, and grows quickly and easily when it locates a food source. When it is not dealt with properly, mold could cause health problems such as sore throats, headaches, lung infections and compromised immune systems. Molds are routinely discovered in property after flooding, drain backups and other water intrusions. Heavy raining will often cause flooding and place properties at risk for mold in as little as 48 hours. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will begin to manifest, particularly if the moisture presence remains undiscovered or unaddressed. Mold growth can develop and occur on: Wood base and casings Paper products and boxes Carpet and tack-less strip Foods and wet linens Insulation and studs Dry wall and cabinetry Why Does Mold Grow? Mold develops when mold spores come into contact with another moist surface. In a basement the humidity is usually higher in the warmer months and may cause mold to grow to begin in walls, floors or insulation. Mold can spread from one spot to other spots quickly if not treated properly, so it is important that you use the right cleaning products and tools when removing the Mold . When finished it is important to ensure that the mold does not come back, but most importantly you must prevent future Mold growth. Signs Of Mold In Basement The presence of mold is typically identified through visible signs. Signs can be a musty smell, a coating of dark colored dust or a patch on the wall. Keep in mind that Mold often looks like spots and it can vary from black to blue-green or orange/yellow depending on its age and what it is growing on. Most Common Signs Of Mold In Basement Includes: Dark or discolored spots on the walls, ceiling, and floor Spots that are sticky to the touch Musty smell in your basement 4 Common Causes Of Mold In Basement There are many causes of Mold in basement. If you notice an increase in musty smells or visible Mold, there may be a water leak nearby. A burst pipe or even condensation on cold surfaces like concrete can also lead to increased humidity and moisture levels and lead to Mold growth. The following are the most common ways mold is discovered in a basement. 1. Excess Moisture Excessively moist surfaces are an optimal environment for Mold growth. Most molds need at least some moisture to grow, and they will find their way to whatever surface has the most water content. Environments like outdoors, basements, or even bathrooms can be especially susceptible to excess humidity. It is important to control moisture levels in areas with high humidity to prevent Mold growth. 2. Leakage Leakage can cause Mold to grow in your basement. If you see Mold, there is also bound to be excess moisture. Other signs of leakage include warped walls, discolored paint, and moisture stains. 3. Flooding Flooding is also a common cause of basements full of water and Mold. Since Mold will always find excess moisture, flooding can lead to an ideal environment for Mold growth. 4. Cigarette Smoke Smokers may unknowingly contribute to the growth of basement Mold by flicking ashes in general waste bins or outside. Still, these filters also cause another issue by emitting mold spores into the air. Even if you are not a smoker, the residue of cigarettes in your home can contribute to Mold growth. Cigarette smoke can linger in carpets, sofas, and other fabric surfaces for months after being smoked in a room. This is yet another example of how smoking can cause Mold in basements. Other household items like carpet, wallpaper and insulation can also be a source of Mold. If you suspect that Mold may be growing in your basement due to any of the above reasons, we will discuss some tips on how to remove mold in Basement below. Identify Trouble Areas Before trying to remove Mold from your basement, you must identify all of the trouble areas and possible causes that may have led to the mold infestation. That...
Removing Water From A Flooded Crawlspace.: How To Remove Water In A Crawlspace – Step By Step Guide Water In Your Crawlspace? Having water in a crawlspace can be a problem. But it doesn’t have to be. This blog post will discuss how to remove water in a crawlspace and detail the process you need to follow. What Is A Crawlspace? A crawlspace is an area under a building that can be entered through trapdoors in the floors of closets, utility rooms, etc. Many have small entry doors from outside, often very difficult to access without crawling under decks or through tight spaces. Crawlspaces are often used as utility areas where the furnace system will be as well as plumbing and electrical. If the area is at least 3’ deep the property will have additional room for equipment and storage. Why Do I Need To Worry About Water In My Crawlspace? Water can cause structural damage to the home if it is not dried up. Water will also absorbs into the wood substrates, which can reduce its strength and cause mold. Many homeowners find mold growing in their crawlspaces since they are dark and moist. The absence of UV lighting is major cause of mold in the crawlspace. Another problem with water in a crawlspace is that it can evaporate into the living areas of your home through doors or vents. This causes a highly humid environment, leading to mold, mildew, and fungi growth problems. Why Is Water In Crawlspace Dangerous? When water is present in a crawlspace, the ground underneath it can shift. Basements especially have been known to suffer from cracks and buckling when water is not removed prior to building a foundation over a crawlspace. Knowing how to remove water in a crawlspace can limit damages and save you many dollars in repair cost. Wood rots when it gets wet and mold spores carry on the wind throughout your home. If you have a crawlspace, make sure it’s free and clear of water and then seal any cracks that would lead to leaking. How Can I Tell If There Is Water In My Crawlspace? There are several signs that there might be water in your crawlspace: The carpet and pad feel squishy. You can see puddles of water around the crawlspace and under and behind the appliances. If you suspect that there is water in your crawlspace, then it’s time to do something about it. Causes Of Water In Crawlspace There are several reasons why you might have water in your crawlspace. The two primary sources that cause leaking into a crawlspace are rainwater and condensation. Make sure to install gutters around the perimeter of your home to ensure that rainwater doesn’t wash away soil under your crawlspace. And make sure to cover your vents with screens to keep out anything that might cause condensation. 4 Common Causes Include: 1) Crawlspace Condensation Condensation is where water starts to appear in your crawlspace, and it can be a serious problem if not dealt with quickly. Condensation occurs when moist air comes into contact with surfaces that are normally relatively dry like concrete or wood beams. This moisture collects on surfaces and forms water. 2) Crawlspace Vents Your vents are an important part of your crawlspace. They allow for airflow to help with the ventilation in the crawlspace. If they are not dealt with, you will have problems with mold or mildew forming in your crawlspace. Several Vent Issues Include: Poorly sealed vents which cause conditioned air to escape, leading to condensation inside the crawlspace. Clogged vents which suffocate your crawlspace of fresh air. There are essentially two types of vents that you might have in your crawlspace: screened and solid. Screened vents provide airflow to the crawlspace, but they also allow for insects, rodents or rain into the area. Solid vents prevent moisture and other debris from entering the crawlspace. However, they also prevent airflow. To ensure that you get a proper flow of air into your crawlspace, install both types of vents to allow for cross ventilation. 3) Leaks In The Perimeter Around Your Home In many cases heavy rain water from outside will find its way into your crawlspace. This can be from cracks in the foundation, from gaps around vents and pipes and even poorly sealed access doors. Such circumstances have lead many to run to their computer and frantically type in a search engine, “how to remove water in a crawlspace that is flooded.” Sometimes it can be challenging to tell where all of the leaks are coming from as they might be hidden behind insulation or walls inside your crawlspace. 4) Improper Grading Of Soil Around Your Crawlspace Improper grading of soil around your crawlspace also contributes to the problem. If there is a difference in height between the foundation and the grade then water will seep into your crawlspace and take any path it can find to get inside. As you can see, you need to make sure that everything is sealed up properly so that no water can come...
Residential Sewer Backup Cleaning Services: Residential Sewer Backup Clean Up Services Residential Sewer Backup Clean Up Services In Michigan If there is something worth avoiding, it’s a sewage backup. Sewer backups occurs when waste water is not flowing correctly through the drainage pipes. It can result from an obstruction and, in the process, cause a blockage. If a blockage forces a sewage backup in your home you may need residential sewer backup clean up services. If a sewage system clogs and is not addressed, it will cause a backup potentially introducing a health hazard from the contamination. When you notice this issue, you should deal with the sewer backup as soon as possible. In extreme cases you should evacuate the property. The young and elderly are especially at risk. What Are The Causes Of A Sewage Backup? In most cases, problems begin when you do not maintain the sewage lines regularly. A small crack through the pipes can enlarge, contributing to bigger issues. And since most sewer lines are in walls, under concrete flooring and under your property, the damages are often unnoticed. Here Are Some Of The Causes Of Sewage Backup; 1. Sewage Spill In Old Sewer Line Plumbing companies and city codes use durable pipes made of newer materials such as PVC. Older systems use cast iron, or clay and these pipes will not last forever underground. However, they are durable for typically 30 years, and eventually, they start deteriorating after years of usage. Most of these sewer lines are over 30 years old, and they connect to more houses in your neighborhood. And with the increasing number of homes each year, they will flood with extra waste. It will result in sewage spills in the basement of residential homes. Most of the time, the sewage backup contains raw sewage with is replete with bacteria and viral matter. Once exposed to the air, it can cause air pollution, resulting in contaminated air. Gases extracted by these wastes are harmful and can cause problems to your family’s health when inhaled. 2. Sewer Main System The problem can start from the city’s central system. In most instances, it begins as a small blockage that goes undetected, and then over time, the damage increases, causing either a sewage spill or sewage backup into residential homes. In some cases when this happens, the sewage water backs up slowly. Thus, this can give you time to call a professional for a cleanup. It is better to call the city public works office and report the issue before it escalates. Sometimes the backup is instant and a finished basement can be under several inches of water in a matter of minutes. Such was the case during the June 2021 flooding that occurred in Grosse Pointe Woods Michigan. Action Extraction restoration services of Macomb received over 30 calls from Grosse Pointe Woods residents in 1 day, as multiple homeowners were devastated to find their basements were under water. Along with mitigating many properties during this time Action Extraction also guided homeowners on the best way to protect their valuables and furniture. Some homeowners were placed on waiting list for days before they could get a professional restoration company out to cleanup the sewage in basements. By the time some homeowners got a professional for the residential sewer backup clean up services they needed, they already had black mold. Some resorted to wading through the sludge, waste and manage some cleaning themselves. The drying stage is equally important after a basement flood and many were disappointed to learn local hardware stores were out of drying equipment to rent. 3. Tree Roots Blockage In areas where the sewage line has existed for a long time, debris can cause cracks in the pipes. Once the roots start seeping the sewage spill, they start growing. These roots grow into cracks and, in the end, cause blockage. At the same time, they can travel along the pipe, creating a much bigger issue. Once you identify blockage issues, determine the type of tree root and call the city for a sewage cleanup. Trees grow differently, so it is better to identify the type of tree root, and then it will be easier for cleanup from the sewage line. 4. Excess Water Routed Into The Sewer. Some of this excess comes from gutters, downspouts, or sump pumps. While there is no issue connecting this water to your sewer, it cannot handle more volumes of water during heavy storms. More water in the sewer can cause sewage backups. As a result, backing up solid waste into the surface. In areas with a heavy downfall, the water can sip into the ground and, when it saturates, drain back up into your finished basement. If the water is not corrected, it becomes contaminated. When cleaning the contaminated water, ensure that you have protective clothing such as rubber gloves and rubber boots. You can prevent water from draining into your basement by ensuring water drains away from your house. How Can You Clean A Sewer...
How To Remove Mold From Home: How To Remove Mold In Your Home Removing Mold In Your Home [5 Easy Steps] Mold is a nasty thing to uncover in your home. It can grow just about anywhere, and it’s not always easy to get rid of. If you’re dealing with mold in your home, don’t worry! We’re here to help. In this post, we’ll first talk about the causes of mold in home and then walk you through five easy steps on how to remove mold in your home. Let’s get started! Causes Of Mold In Home Several factors cause mold, but the three main causes are water damage, humidity, and condensation. If you see mold in your home, one (or more) of these factors is likely to present. Water Damage If you’ve experienced water damage in your home, whether it was from a flood, a sewer backup, a leaky roof or pipe, or even just high humidity, then you’re at risk for mold growth. Mold thrives in moist environments, so if water isn’t dried up and cleaned up quickly, you’re likely to see mold start to grow. If the growth begins on a surface that is organic such as cellulose, it is a food source mold thrives in and it may grow quickly and spread. When you physically see mold you are sure to have mold spores (which are invisible to the naked eye), floating around as well. Humidity If the air in your home is too humid, it can also lead to mold growth. High humidity can be caused by running your air conditioner too much, not using a dehumidifier frequently enough, or even just by having high indoor temperatures. Mold found in bath rooms is often a result of not using an exhaust fan when showering. Sometimes the exhaust fan is heavily clogged with dust so it is inefficient at reducing humidity. Having an exhaust fan is not the answer to the how to remove mold in your home, but it can be for how to prevent mold in the home. Air movement is a form of energy that naturally deters mold development. Condensation Condensation can also lead to mold growth. This typically occurs in poorly ventilated spaces, and it happens when the warm moist air meets cold surfaces like windows, walls, floors, etc. Cold surfaces especially during the cold months will act as a magnet for warm moist air, causing condensation to happen. Enough condensation produces water which in turn can cause mold to manifest. Usually it appears around the windows, window sills and the corners of dry wall that are not well insulated. The corner bead of dry wall corners is usually aluminum which becomes very cold in the winter causing condensation. How To Remove Mold In Your Home? [5 Easy Steps] Now that you know what causes mold in your home let’s move on to how to remove mold in your home! Here are five easy steps for doing just that. Step 1: Turn On Your Air Conditioner If your home has high humidity levels, one of the best things you can do to help remove mold is to turn on your air conditioner. When your air conditioner is running, it’s actually acting as a dehumidifier taking out moisture in the air. Dryer air not only feels better in the warmer months but will greatly reduce the potential for mold in the home. Most modern HVAC systems will manage and regulate humidity. Your HVAC system has an evaporator coil that condenses water vapor from the air, in a process similar to when condensation appears on the outside of a glass containing a cold beverage. … The liquid is then condensed out of the air, making your home less humid. Step 2: Open Windows And Vents If your home has high humidity levels, one of the best things you can do to help remove mold is open your windows and vents. When the warm, moist air meets the cold air outside, it will condense and cause the water vapor to evaporate. This process has also been named, “burping the home”. This occasional process will help reduce the humidity level in your home and make it less hospitable for mold growth. Additionally fresh air being introduced into the home allows for a freshening affect that reduces odors and even remove minimize dust. Some with allergies who may not want the natural occurring molds in the outside air can still benefit from this process. There are cost efficient air filters that competently scrub molds from the air using a HEPA filter. These filters can be found at local hardware stores and online. Once turned on will take out the extra natural molds, but still allow for the freshening effect of an air exchange with outdoor air. Some With Allergies Who May Not Want The Natural Occurring Molds In The Outside Air Can Still Benefit From This Process. There Are Cost Efficient Air Filters That Competently Scrub Molds From The Air Using A HEPA Filter. These Filters Can Be Found At Local Hardware Stores And Online. Once Turned On Will Take Out The Extra Natural Molds, But Still Allow For The Freshening Effect Of An Air Exchange With Outdoor Air. If you have any furniture that’s been affected by mold, you need to remove it from the room...
Warren Mold Removal Company: Mold Removal Company in Warren, Michigan If you need an experienced and affordable mold removal company in Warren, Michigan consider Action Extraction Restoration Experts. We are a #1 rated restoration company for black mold elimination. Please call us at (586) 949-4448 for 24/7 emergency assistance. Click here to learn more about our mold damage cleanup services or Follow Us on Facebook! DO YOU HAVE BLACK MOLD IN WARREN? Black Mold Damage Cleanup In Warren, MI Mold can be a major nuisance in the home and finding it growing can be quite alarming. If you believe you have located a mold condition in your home it is important to act sooner than later. Action Extraction is a premiere mold removal company in Warren and offers free evaluations of properties experiencing mold growth. We can remove the molds that release microscopic spores that produce allergic reactions, runny noses, sneezing, sore throat and offensive odors. If you see suspicious colors and growths on surfaces than you would be well advised to have us come out for a free inspection. Our 30 years of experience will completely eliminate the harmful molds known as invisible intruders. They commonly grow behind walls and around the surfaces you first see. Our professionals will evaluate the areas of concern as well as utilize specialty moisture monitoring equipment to find any hidden water damage. Our inspection will reveal any potential cause and manifestation requiring attention. Home mold remediation is a specialized service that requires skill and experience. And if you are looking for a highly trusted mold removal company in Warren, Michigan then you are at the right place! What Exactly Is Mold? Molds are found in nature and are a natural part of the environment. They are common being found everywhere, especially where moisture and oxygen are present. Mold will grow in both an indoor and outdoor environment and still pose no great threat to human health. Mold spores found in the home can still be safe unless the spore numbers are elevated and/or a toxic mold is present. The toxic molds are often found in homes where building materials stay damp, the air is humid and moisture is high. When this occurs the high humidity will affect the conditions of the home, especially walls, floors, ceilings, and in any area of water damage. Mold will easily grow in the home and can be found in many places in the right conditions. The most common places to find mold are: Water damaged areas. Damp basements and crawl spaces. Closets and other damp areas. Areas with leaks. Damp walls. Areas moist with no access to UV light. Finally, mold can grow anywhere in the home, so if you see or suspect it, it is not wise to ignore what could be a huge problem. If you are concerned that your home fits the description of a place where mold would thrive, give us a call today to set an appointment to evaluate your property. We are a mold removal company in Warren committed to helping people maintain safe living conditions allowing for optimal health year-round. Mold will grow on any wet or moist surface usually showing its ugly presence in the form of a new brown spot on the ceiling, black fuss on a surface or almost anything new and suspicious looking. Mold can cause serious damage such as wood to rot, plaster to peel off, and drywall to crumble. These sudden appearances that were not there before are most likely mold. If you don’t see an evidence for concern, but smell a pungent new odor in your home, then it too is most likely mold. It is common to first locate concerns in a bathroom or kitchen where water is used more than other rooms in the home. Why Mold Removal Matters? Once you understand that mold can grow anywhere in your home, even on the floor, you want to use this knowledge going forward. Before allowing a critical condition to manifest throughout your property and important structures become a hazardous, you need to act FAST! These molds are already producing allergens, toxic gases, toxic chemicals and spores that are traveling throughout the home. These toxins will continue to be released into the air and will continue to cause issues unless something is done. Any related irritations and illnesses as well will continue to cause potential health problems and will get only worse until something is done. Action Extraction – Mold Removal Company Specialist Let our experts assist you going forward and if we discover a mold condition in your home we will write a free estimate for remediation. If you are looking for the best rated mold removal company in Warren, consider our matchless credentials. We are a 5-star rated for customer satisfaction, we offer a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee on all of our restoration services. Add to this our unique experience of over 30 years restoring mold damaged properties, you can rest assured we will work hard to earn your deepest trust. Causes of Mold...
How To Clean Up After A Sewer Backup: Cleaning dishes after a large party or heavy mud from a vehicle may be a tedious undertaking, but most know where to begin. However, if you ever experience a sewer backup, where would you begin? The foul smells, the horrific mess and the shock of valued property being damaged, make for a daunting challenge. Most would not know how to clean up the basement after a flood. If this unwelcomed situation has just manifested itself in your home and your mind is reeling with “Oh My Gosh” repetition, continue reading. Here are some helpful tips on how to clean up the basement after a sewer backup. The nasty mess you wouldn’t wish upon your worst enemy has a systematic solution that will allow for successful...
6 Steps To Remove Water From Carpet And Prevent Mold Growth: Wet carpet is almost always immediately noticed as wet, whether you are wearing socks, shoes or barefoot. The source of the water will vary from a leak to an overflow or even an appliance that has malfunctioned. Have you discovered wet carpet after descending your steps to a wet basement? Has a drain backed up damaging your valued floor covering? Anyone who has experienced this will attest to the inescapable conclusion that, “this is a bad thing”. If wet carpets are discovered moments after the intrusion than chances are your situation is not as grim as those who stumble upon the same event after being away for a weeks’...

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