Friday, November 8, 2024

Fire Damage Restoration Is The First Step Towards Tomorrow


When smoke and flames consume a residence, trying to pick up the pieces and return to a normal life may seem like an impossible task. Fire damage restoration is the all-important first step in the process of rebuilding the structure and making it a livable space once again. The process of remediation after this kind of loss is time-sensitive and involves a number of steps. Finding a professional organization to perform this process can lessen financial stress and help property owners return to the home that they love.

Time Is Of The Essence

Fire damage restoration is a time-sensitive process. The passage of time will increase the impact in terms of the harm to property and belongings and the cost to return them to their former state. The initial impact of the flames is obvious; charred items show the results of the event. Water and chemical agents that were used to tamp down and contain the event also leave behind traces of how they were applied. However, there are other elements, less apparent but no less critical, that can dramatically increase the level of harm that has occurred.

The residual effects following a combustible event begin within minutes of the flames being doused and the smoke being cleared. Soot, ash, and odors can combine to discolor surfaces; corrode metallic objects, such as appliances and plumbing fixtures; and permanently stain fabrics, such as clothing and upholstery. As time passes, the long-term impact can be felt both in financial and emotional terms. Beginning the recovery process as soon as possible will help reduce the cost and the time required to begin a return to normalcy.

What Is Involved

A professional fire damage restoration team follows a number of steps in achieving the goal of returning the affected property to its former state. Below are highlights of this process.

Securing The Site

After a professional team is called to a location and performs an initial assessment, the location will be secured from the elements. This may involve windows and damaged walls being boarded up. If there is damage to the roof of a structure, a roof tarp may also be installed to prevent the elements from causing additional harm. It is important to note that protective clothing is utilized during the entire operation as team members can be exposed to potentially harmful elements that resulted from the occurrence.

Initial Removal Of Flame Retardant Items

Water and chemical agents used to control the event need to be removed from the location before additional work can be performed. Drying elements, such as dehumidifiers, are brought in to expedite the process. Large fans and other air moving devices will improve ventilation and make the area both easier and safer to perform the remediation.

Removing And Cleaning

The next phase of the procedure involves removing the residual soot and smoke odors from the premises. This is one of the most comprehensive steps, as it involves a thorough cleaning of all surfaces including walls, ceilings, floors, fixtures, and appliances. During this time, additional estimates can be made as to what can be restored and what must be replaced.

Sanitizing and deep cleaning will help bring items back to the condition that they were in before being damaged in the event. This step can also result in significant cost savings both to the homeowner and the insurance company involved.

Restoration And Replacement

The final step in fire damage restoration is dealing with any structural damage. Installing new flooring, repainting, and similar activities will be undertaken at this time. If portions of the property need to be rebuilt, this can also be completed during this phase.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Andrew_Stratton/83489

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9369414

Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Dunn-Edwards 2025 Color of the Year | Caramelized (DET687)


A warm, neutral hue with soft, earthy tones that evoke the essence of sunbaked clay. Caramelized is the perfect balance between light brown and soft terracotta, offering timeless versatility. Whether paired with creamy off-whites for a subtle look or contrasted with deep navy and charcoal for a bolder vibe, this color transforms any space into a cozy, grounded retreat.

Saturday, November 2, 2024

How to Clean Up Attic Mold | This Old House


This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows a professional approach to eliminating dangerous fungus outbreaks.

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Everything You Wanted To Know About Water Damage Restoration & Mitigation


Has your home or business experienced a serious water event that caused flooding, leaking, or any other type of water damage? In this video, the United Water Restoration Group team discusses the causes of water damage, some of the dangers that come along with having damaged property, as well as the water damage restoration process that’s used to help put your life back on track after a water damage disaster has occurred.






Sunday, October 27, 2024

How to Prevent Water Damage From Household Fixtures | This Old House


This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows ways to detect and stop common plumbing leaks. (See below for a shopping list and tools.)

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Flooded Home: Make Sure Everything is Dry Before Rebuilding


NDSU Extension Educator Carl Pedersen shows what to look for and check out in your home before rebuilding after the flood.
For more flood information check out http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/flood

Monday, October 21, 2024

Home Mold Inspection Questions Answered


Have questions about mold inspection? We invited NJM Solutions Inc to discuss its mold inspection tactics with the United Water Restoration Group team and audience. Learn more about home mold inspections by watching our video now.







Friday, October 18, 2024

Do’s And Don’ts When Restoring Your Home After Fire Damage


Watching your home go up in flames could cause an emotional turmoil that’s difficult to deal with. However, a fire accident isn’t the end of the road for your home as you can always restore it.

The key to restoring a home after fire damage depends on several factors you should do and don’t. Remember, fire damage restoration is a serious matter, and you don’t have any room for mistakes. For example, even if the firefighters declared that the fire’s over, it doesn’t mean that getting inside is safe. You might step on glass shards, nails, and anything sharp. There’s also a chance that heavy debris may fall on you while you attempt to clean and restore your home right away.

And because of those things, it’s always advisable to work with professional restoration companies like Arsidaho.com and others that offer similar services. Hiring these companies can hasten the restoration process.

Dos And Don’ts

Surely, you still want to help with the restoration process. It might be because you want to quicken the process or reduce the amount you need to spend. Whatever the reason, you want to make sure that you do it safely and properly.

What To Do

Here’s a list of the things you should do when restoring your home after fire damage:

1. Avoid The Scene Of The Fire

You need to avoid the fire scene until the firefighters permits you to go inside your home. Even if the fire appears to be out, it can restart. You don’t want to trap yourself inside when that happens. Moreover, the burnt part of your house can be unstable after a fire. Something may collapse and it may fall on you.

2. Document The Scene

Taking pictures, collecting receipts, and recording conversations with firefighters can help you with your insurance. This is because the evidence will help speed up the insurance claim process and ensure that you get a fair claim to cover the restoration process.

3. Call Your Insurance Company

Insurance providers will have to assess the extent of the damage before they can start processing the claim. And to get them to process it as quickly as possible, you should call them immediately and let them know about the damage. Once they come, you can show them the parts that you documented to help with the process.

4. Find A Reliable Restoration Company

After the fire, you’ll want things to go back to normal as soon as possible. Therefore, you should find and contact a restoration company. Let them handle the restoration and help them out if they need anything. Even though you may be tempted to start the restoration by yourself, don’t; you may not have the right cleaning equipment and skills to do it alone.

5. Discard All Exposed Food

The food that has been exposed to fire or smoke isn’t suitable for consumption anymore as it may have chemicals that are unsafe to your body. Therefore, once you’re allowed back into the house, ensure that you discard all of them.

6. Seek Support

Watching your house go into flames can be traumatizing even for emotionally and financially strong people. You don’t need to go through such moments alone, and you should call and talk to your friends and family to seek emotional support. With a calm mind, you can trust yourself to make proper decisions.

7. Seek Temporary Shelter

Depending on the severity of the fire damage, you may need to seek temporary shelter as soon as possible. Take all the valuables you can, and make sure to do it right away. You don’t want your pets and family members to stay in your home as the soot and other toxic fumes may harm their health.

Also, you need somewhere to rest and pull yourself back together. Restoring your home may be on top of your priority list after the fire, but don’t forget yourself.

What Not To Do

After the fire, there are things that you should be keen to avoid doing to prevent further damage and make the restoration process smooth. Such things include the following:

1. Do Not Use Utilities

After a fire, you need to stop using the utilities such as gas and water. Remember that water that’s mix with dirt and debris becomes more electrically conductive. If it comes in contact with faulty electric equipment, it may result in electrocution.

On the other hand, there’s a huge chance that your gas line has been damaged or it might even be the reason the fire started. The last thing you want to do is to try igniting anything within the vicinity as there might be a gas leak.

2. Avoid Cleaning Before Insurance Assessment

Even after documenting the fire scene, you should avoid scrubbing soot, smoke, or moving anything in the house before an insurance inspection. This is because cleaning up may lessen the extent of the damage and consequently reduce your insurance claim.

3. Don’t Turn On Any Electric Equipment

Sometimes, the cause of the fire could be faulty electric equipment or connection. Turning on electric equipment soon after you’re allowed back into the house without a safety clearance could start another fire.

And even if the firefighter declared that your house is safe, don’t hesitate to ask about the status of your electricity service. Remember that aside from starting another fire, having problems with electricals may lead to electrocution or short your appliances.

4. Don’t Use Or Clean Carpets And Curtains

When soot or debris gets to your carpet after fire damage, it could be a headache to try and clean it. To avoid wasting time and further trouble, you should just dispose of it or get professionals to work on it. They can provide the best cleanup process for those items.

Conclusion

Fires can happen, and if a fire damages your home, you’ll be so distressed. The best you can do is ensure you do the right thing to make the restoration of your home easier and faster so that you can get your old life back. Follow all the things you’re supposed to do and act with caution.

SOURCE: https://purehomeimprovement.com/restoring-your-home-after-a-fire-damage/

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

HFSC Home Security Camera Living Room Fire


A home security camera captured an actual living room fire, showing how quickly a fire can spread. Every home should have a working smoke alarm and residents should practice an escape plan. All new homes should be protected with home fire sprinklers. For more information about home fire sprinklers: https://homefiresprinkler.org/

Saturday, October 12, 2024

How to Choose Exterior Paint Colors | This Old House


The Belmont homeowners consider colors for the exterior of their house. SUBSCRIBE to This Old House: http://bit.ly/SubscribeThisOldHouse. Kevin O’Connor and the homeowners meet with architect Mat Cummings, who has put together a couple of color-scheme options for the exterior of the house.


Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Sunday, October 6, 2024

Top 10 Sherwin Williams Colors for EVERY Room in Your Home


Custom Color Palettes: https://shop.thepaintpeople.com/produ... Custom Color Palettes: https://shop.thepaintpeople.com/produ... Discover the perfect palette for your home with our guide to the top 10 Sherwin-Williams colors that will breathe life into every corner. From serene bedrooms to vibrant living spaces, we've curated a list of the most stunning hues to elevate your interior design. Join us as we explore the versatility, trends, and timeless appeal of these Sherwin-Williams shades, helping you create a personalized haven that reflects your style and personality.

Thursday, October 3, 2024

Werner Ladder - Ladder Inspection


It’s important to inspect every ladder before every use, follow these steps and remember when in doubt tag it and throw it out. Werner Climbing Pro, a public service series designed to promote ladder safety through education.

Monday, September 30, 2024

Alltek Restoration's Commitment and Dedication to Client's Satisfaction is Second to None



You can expect a professional staff when working with Alltek Restoration, Inc. We value and expect quality, efficiency, punctuality, cleanliness and courtesy from our team. Our commitment and dedication to our client's satisfaction is second to none.

  • Quality work, Integrity, and Commitment
  • Prompt completion and timeline.
  • Detailed estimates upon invitation to bid.
  • Explanation of contract and specification

Alltek has established successful working relationships with qualified and competent professionals, and subcontractors who share our customer oriented philosophy.

Our Guarantee: We warranty all work that is done with your project whether we ourselves do the work or our subcontractors do the work.

Choosing the right contractor is crucial for any project to be successful. We specialize in Emergency Services, Contents, Restoration, and Reconstruction. You can rest knowing that your project's interest is at the top of our concerns. Alltek is committed to providing our clients with the highest quality work and exceptional customer service, while assuring you of a well executed plan to complete your project. You and everyone involved in your project will feel confident we are leading the way.

OUR ESTIMATES

Xactware® is recognized in the claims industry and used by many insurance providers. All of our restoration scopes and reconstruction estimates are generated using the Xactimate estimating software or Xactcontents for personal property.

With our estimating staff’s knowledge, combined with the power of Xactimate, our estimates indicate exact quantities and materials & labor. This is accompanied with a clear description of work to be performed and graphical reference providing you with a clear concise scope of work that Alltek will perform on your project.

PROPERTY RESTORATION | STRUCTURE RECONSTRUCTION

There are many aspects to your claim, that our trained and expert staff will guide you through the process. We provide you with a single claim solution from start to finish. Once you choose Alltek Restoration, Inc. you will have one point of contact for your entire claim. No call centers. You will never be a claim number.

Alltek performs both residential and commercial restoration for insurance claim repairs for both small and large loss. For all properties we provide complete restoration services for the following loss categories:

Fire Damage, Water Damage, Smoke Damage, Storm Damage, Vandalism, Vehicle and more.

BOARD UP SERVICES

Are very common requirements after storm or fire loss. The damages caused by the actual fire and tactics use to extinguish can leave your property with broken or blown out windows, burnt doors or broken doors, ventilation holes in roofs, and structural deficiencies all of which leaves the property open to accessible, in distress, and insecure. We will secure all loss related openings with temporary measures securing the property and temporary structural repairs to help prevent further damages.

Contact our office in Antioch, CA, at 925-732-7208 to speak with one of our construction designers about your upcoming project.

Friday, September 27, 2024

This Old House | House Fire Reclamation


The back porches are brought to code. Ice blasting is used to get rid of the fire odor. New vinyl siding gets installed. Homeowner Carol considers new accent colors to match. Framing begins inside.

A lingering smell is one of the biggest problems faced by victims of a house fire. Kevin finds our demo expert Ron Peik addressing that problem with a unique solution—ice. The old siding dates to the early 80’s and finding a match has been difficult. Carol has decided to put new vinyl siding on the entire house and change the color. Tom works with Charlie and siding installer Diogenes Porto on the side of the house that received most of the damage. The new siding color gives Carol a chance to change accent colors on the exterior. She meets with Mauro Henrique to pick new colors for the columns in front. In the second floor apartment framing has begun. Kevin finds Russ and his crew erecting a new wet wall between the kitchen and bathroom and moving a bathroom wall to make space for a laundry room.

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Water-Related Disaster? Safety First


When it comes to emergency water removal, mold removal, and flood damage restoration, leave it to the pros. Your professional disaster restoration specialist has the industry knowledge, experience, and credentials to guide you and your family through the entire process. The appropriate treatment depends on the specific nature of the damage in your home and will be tailored to meet your specific needs.

But homeowners, often feeling helpless in these situations, may ask what they can do to help during this time. The answer is simple but important: safety. Taking measures to ensure the safety of your family and your home is advice to heed. Let's take a look at some safety do's and don'ts.

Is The Home Safe?

Determine whether the house is structurally safe to enter or live in; professionals may refer to the structural integrity of the home. If you're unsure, don't enter the house and make arrangements for shelter with the help of local agencies, neighbors, and friends. Contact your insurance company, too.

If it's determined that the home is safe to enter, turn off the power by disabling the main circuit breaker; turn off the main water supply as well. A flooded basement could damage your furnace if the water reaches a dangerously high level. If you have a natural gas supply line, turn that off also; better still, leave that for a professional.

Of course, keep children and pets away from flooded areas; you don't want accidents from slippery, wet floors.

Don't operate televisions, computers, vacuums or other electrical appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially concrete surfaces.

Be sure your valuables are safe. If you will not be living in the house due to the unsafe conditions, remove your valuables including documents and treasured items such as photographs and other keepsakes; store them with a trusted friend or relative. If you are able to stay in your home, move valuables to a dry, safe location.

Is There Mold?

Mold growth is often one of the ensuing problems created by flood damage. The damp conditions in your home after a flood are an ideal breeding ground for these microscopic organisms that spread by producing airborne spores. Those mix with the air inside your house and can lead to health and safety concerns for you and your family. Typical symptoms resulting from mold exposure include everything from respiratory problems and nasal and sinus congestion, to skin, eye, nose and throat irritation.

(Be on the lookout for signs of mold. They vary considerably but may include a smelly odor, a white and thread-like growth, clusters of small black spots; mold can be grayish-brown, grayish-green or white in color.)

Do treat all flood water as contaminated. The water and water-impacted surfaces may not be contaminated but until determined by a professional, don't take chances. Don't track contaminated materials and items into undamaged areas. Do keep children and pets, who are especially vulnerable, out of suspect areas. Absorbent materials such as carpeting and drywall may be unsalvageable after contaminated.

Implementing these tips will put you into action mode versus feeling helpless. More importantly, it will ensure the safety of your family and your home.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Felecia_Drake/1284157

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6903591

Saturday, September 21, 2024

How To Find A Reliable Company For Resolving Fire Damage Repairs



Disasters can happen at any moment. They can come in the form of floods, earthquakes, or fire outbreaks. No matter the reason for the disaster, it is essential to resolve the damage to bring your regular life back to normalcy. If you see huge loss due to fire in your home, it might be the time to call a professional restoration company to handle the fire damage repairs.
Unfortunately, many people lack necessary information about choosing the right company. Some homeowners choose the very first company they come across. However, this is not the right way to go about this task. You could end up putting a big hole in your budget if the company charges you exorbitantly for its services. Similarly, you won't be able to enjoy top class restoration services if the chosen company is not a professional one. To avoid such scenarios, it is advisable to stay away from such companies.
Instead, hunt for a company that can give quality restoration service for fire damage repairs. Finding such a company is certainly not an easy chore. In fact, it can take a toll on any person to spot the right company. Still, you can ease your search and save time by acting prudently. First and foremost, enquire with your relations and acquaintances. People who have hired any company for fixing their fire damages will certainly come handy in this matter. They can let you know the contact details of the company. Moreover, they will give a brief overview of the company and its services.
Seeking help from your coworkers and colleagues at your workplace is another great idea. If any of these people are familiar with a reliable company that renders restoration services for fire damage repairs, they will direct you to that particular company. Similarly, people living in neighboring areas are also worth enquiring in this respect. If you are unable to find a reliable company for resolving fire damages through offline sources, hit the internet.
A number of reliable companies you can find on the net that offers restoration services for fire damage. Surf the web using relevant search terms, and pen down the names of trusted companies that are popular for rendering quality services at affordable rates. Obtain a detailed quotation from these companies to choose the best one for your particular problem. After comparing different companies, settle with the company that provides effective and quality restoration services for fire damage repairs at pocket-friendly rates.
We all hope to never be there, but when a disaster happens to your home you want to be sure that you have the right coverage on your insurance to help you through those tough times. You don't want to have to think about all of the details like fire damage repairs, restoration assessments, and insurance claims. Finding a great company online to handle all of this for you would be the best option for you and your family.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7935535

Wednesday, September 18, 2024

Some Steps to Protect Your Home From Wildfires


If flames ignite, Cal Fire captain and local resident Scott Green knows that firefighters may be unable to save everything that needs saving. So his rural home protects itself. He shows us how to take defensive steps.

Sunday, September 15, 2024

How to Salvage Your Valuables After Serious Flooding

                      Saving family keepsakes after a storm can be painstaking, but it's worth it


Heavy rain and severe weather can upend your life. And if you're faced with mucking out your house and tearing out saturated drywall, recovering keepsakes and family treasures might seem like a task for a later day.

But saving your valuables can be a race against the clock—mold can form within 48 hours. To help, the Heritage Emergency National Task Force, cosponsored by FEMA and the Smithsonian Institution, has developed guidelines for how to salvage what you want and dispose of what can’t be saved.

The first step is to determine what type of water you’re dealing with—salty, dirty, or contaminated by sewage or chemicals. If your valuables have come in contact with toxic water during flooding, you might have to call a professional conservator because trying to clean them yourself can be a health risk. If the water was untainted, then take steps to reduce the humidity around your items as you work to clean and dry them. Here’s how from FEMA’s checklist:

Save Your Valuables

Prioritize. You may not be able to save everything after flooding, so focus on what’s most important to you, whether for sentimental or monetary reasons.

"We always hear about dollar-amount damages, but often the losses that affect us the most are the ones to which a dollar amount cannot be assigned," says Lori Foley, administrator of the Heritage Emergency National Task Force. "What do you own that you’d miss terribly if you lost it? Photographs of loved ones in frames, albums, or shoeboxes? Books and paintings passed down through generations? Grandma’s recipe box?"

Air-dry. Gentle air-drying indoors is best. Weather permitting, open your windows to increase indoor airflow. If it’s too hot and humid, use fans, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers. Avoid using hair dryers, irons, ovens, and prolonged exposure to sunlight, which can do irreversible damage.

Handle with care. Delicate items can be especially fragile when wet, so be careful when you handle them. Separate sodden materials by removing photographs from damp albums and taking paintings and prints out of their frames. Place white paper towels between every few pages of wet books.

Clean gently. Loosen dirt and debris on fragile objects carefully with soft cloths and brushes. Avoid rubbing, which can grind in dirt.

Salvage photos. Clean photographs by rinsing them carefully in clean water. Air-dry photos on a plastic screen or paper towel, or by hanging them by the corners with plastic clothespins. Don’t let the image come into contact with other surfaces as it dries.

Cold storage. Damp objects and items that cannot be dealt with immediately should be put in open, unsealed boxes or bags. If you can’t attend to items within 48 hours, you can put photos, papers, books, and textiles in the freezer and clean them later.

"In general, you can freeze many items that cannot be dried out in 48 hours – photos, books, documents, textiles," says Foley. "Freezing stops mold from growing, ink from running, and dyes from transferring. Freezing items allows you to buy some time to devote to other activities. When you are able, you can return to the frozen items and recover them on your own time."


Dispose of the Debris

Once the waters recede, residents will be able to go back into their homes and start cleaning up, and piles of ruined household belongings will be put on the curb. Cleanup can take months if not years.

Because mold creates a serious health risk, it’s important to remove wet items from your home as soon as possible. FEMA recommends not waiting for your insurance adjuster before cleaning up. Instead, document the flooding damage on your cell phone or camera. Before dragging debris to the curb, check with your municipality on how it wants you to separate items for the garbage haulers. FEMA recommends sorting items into the following six categories:

  • Bagged household garbage such as food, packaging, and paper.
  • Building materials and furniture, including drywall, carpeting, and mattresses.
  • Vegetation debris such as tree branches, plants, and leaves.
  • Hazardous household waste, including batteries, paints, and cleaning supplies.
  • Large appliances such as refrigerators, water heaters, and air conditioners.
  • Electronics such as TVs, computers, and stereo equipment.

For more information and resources, see FEMA’s After the Flood: Advice for Salvaging Damaged Family Treasures.

Article Source: https://www.consumerreports.org/cleaning/how-to-salvage-valuables-after-flooding/

About Alltek Restoration

 


You can only expect a professional staff when working with Alltek Restoration, Inc. We value and expect quality, efficiency, punctuality, cleanliness, and courtesy. Our team believes in our commitment and dedication to each client’s satisfaction is second to none.

  • Quality work, Integrity, and Commitment
  • Prompt completion and timeline.
  • Detailed estimates upon invitation to bid.
  • Explanation of contract and specification
Alltek has established successful working relationships with qualified and competent professionals, and subcontractors who share our customer-oriented philosophy.

Our Guarantee: We warranty all work that is done with your project whether we ourselves do the work or our subcontractors do the work.

Contact our office in Pittsburg, CA, at 925-732-7200 to speak with one of our construction designers about your upcoming project.


Thursday, September 12, 2024

Earthquake Safety


      Stay safe before, during and after an earthquake. Use these 7 steps to protect you and your family.

Monday, September 9, 2024

What Are the Steps Involved in Water or Flood Damage Restoration Work?



When it comes to water damage, the major issue is that you usually can't see the full extent of the problem with the naked eye. This is where a professional water or flood disaster restoration team comes in. With their specialized tools, equipment, and knowledge, these experts will be able to properly assess the situation, fully dry and restore your home, and check in afterward to make sure the restoration is complete. That means that you don't have to worry about lingering dampness, mold, or bacteria growth. Instead, you can get back to enjoying your home in comfort.

If you've experienced water damage in your home and you call on a water and flood restoration service for assistance, the first thing they will do is to perform a moisture assessment. Your restoration company will determine the location or source of the moisture and the extent of the area affected. This part of the process ensures that all the damage is taken into account--even the parts not visible--before the restoration process begins. Once the assessment has been made, your restoration professionals will use specialized equipment to remove standing water, complete drying with air movement, and clean any carpeting thoroughly. With these different steps, your restoration professionals will be able to totally dry your home and sanitize the area.

After the core drying out work comes the most important part of the water damage restoration process: the follow-up. Water damage is a very difficult problem to deal with because it can be so hidden. Even if you get the most thorough flood or water damage remediation company in to take care of the problem, it's possible that there will be a lingering issue or dampness somewhere. However, most restoration professionals offer follow-up services because they know of this potential. After completing the restoration and drying work, and depending on the severity of the damage, they will either come back for a post-job assessment, or you can call them if you notice any issues. This crucial stage in the restoration process should not be skipped. If there's any chance that some dampness may have gone untreated, get it taken care of immediately so that it doesn't lead to more serious issues down the line.

Experiencing flood or water damage in your home is unpleasant, but it does not have to be an impossible situation. With assessment, restoration, and follow-up services provided by a professional water restoration company, you can get your home back to normal in no time.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Maria_Allen/914516

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6800241

Friday, September 6, 2024

Alltek Restoration Provides 24/7 Emergency Services


Emergency Services

We are here to help when you need it. Providing first response to your needs 24/7. Our team will be dispatched to your loss, will assess the damages, explain the course of action required and with your approval start immediately preventing further loss and damages.

The post-loss condition of a structure or dwelling can vary and is specific to each type of loss and the severity of the damage that has occurred. Determining the cause of the loss and the affected area is the first step and often most important. How and what steps are taken can have a significant impact on further damages and what is necessary to prevent or limit further damages to a structure. Alltek Restoration, Inc. provides all emergency or temporary services which your property may require.

Board Up Services

Are very common requirements after storm or fire losses. The damages caused by the actual fire and tactics use to extinguish can leave your property with broken or blown out windows, burnt doors or broken doors, ventilation holes in roofs, and structural deficiencies all of which leaves the property open to access, in distress, and insecure. We will secure all loss related openings with temporary measures securing the property and temporary structural repairs to help prevent further damages.

Temporary Weather Proofing

Your property may require temporary weatherproofing as a result of a loss. Both storm and fire damages can leave your property exposed or vulnerable to weather elements which will cause further damage to your property. Preventing additional damages is key as secondary damages can exceed the preliminary damages.

Content Services

Depending on the type of loss and severity will determine what needs to be done.

Services can include the following: manipulation, both salvageable and non-salvageable / total loss inventory, packing for on or off-site storage, cleaning and restoration, and pack back after repairs.


Mitigation Services

Includes initial loss assessment, determination of cause and source, water category/classification, moisture mapping, and determining the affected areas that require structural drying. Removal of both salvageable and non-salvageable building components, and the placement of required drying equipment as well as monitoring the drying progress until completed. After the drying process, repairs may proceed.

Temporary Utility Services

After a loss, a structure's utilities can be interrupted or shut off until safe operation and use can be confirmed. All utilities are subject to interruption which can make your home uninhabitable or unsafe. After a fire, if the electrical system is damaged emergency personnel will have the utility provider interrupt service to prevent the risk of injury and further structure damages. We can provide emergency repair or provide temporary utilities that are required so repairs may begin.

Tuesday, September 3, 2024

Commercial Building Water Damage Vs. Residential Water Damage


Commercial buildings have water damages just like homes. There are many differences between buildings and homes that have water damage.

The big difference between homes and businesses is the type of carpet that gets wet. Residential water damages usually have carpet over padding. Not only is the carpet water damaged, but the padding is soaked in many cases or at least wet. The usual process is to remove the carpet from the floor and remove the padding. Then remove the tack strip that holds the carpet down. Many homeowners forget to remove the tack strip and when they add a carpet fan to dry the carpet, the tack strip can actually rip a hole in the carpet as the carpet is flapping up and down.

Commercial buildings usually have wet carpet that is glued to the floor which means there is no padding. Although that is good in one way, it creates another issue. The other issue is getting the bottom of the carpet that is glued to the floor to dry.

Most carpet cleaners and cleaning janitorial companies use an air mover that blows on the carpet to dry the carpet. The problem is that the air mover also known as a carpet fan only dries the surface of the carpet. The problem becomes bigger because unknown to the property manager, carpet cleaner, and janitorial service the bottom of the carpet is wet. The moisture underneath the carpet (remember that the carpet is glued to the floor and no one can feel underneath the carpet) will be a feeding ground for mold and bacteria. Building management professionals will know it's a problem a few days later as they smell a foul odor. That odor is the growth of bacteria and mold growing.

Unless you have a moisture meter to determine if the carpet is wet underneath, you have to assume that the carpet is dry by feeling the surface of the carpet. As we have just learned, that becomes a liability and opportunity for tenants and employees to complain and possibly bring legal action.

Drying underneath the carpet and preventing mold damage and bacteria growth is actually very easy. Remember that mold normally (but not always) takes 36 to 72 hours to start to grow. There are molds that grow faster, but this an average time period for most molds. This information tells us that we have some time to work fast to prevent an issue. Please also remember that this process can be used by untrained and uncertified employees for wet carpet areas less than a 3 feet x 3 feet. Any wet carpet areas more than this will need a IICRC certified professional.

First take the same air mover that you used to dry the wet area and actually keep the air mover on for another 24 hours after the carpet feels dry. You will need to purchase a moisture meter that will test the bottom of the carpet After 24 hours the carpet should read dry, but if not let it run another 24 hours. The reason you can dry underneath the carpet without taking the carpet up, is because through osmosis, drying the surface of the carpet will " suck " the moisture from the bottom of the carpet to the top. Removing the moisture will reduce the possibility of mold and bacteria growth.

There are more differences between drying a water damage in a home and in a commercial building such as fire walls, computer systems, complicated furniture.

Hospitals and pharmaceutical companies and other sensitive manufacturing companies have compounded issues. Because of concerns of dust and mold these issues may interfere with patients' health and manufacturing processes.

The bottom line is to be careful when hiring a water damage restoration clean up company. It's best for commercial property management to start searching now and creating emergency plans to make sure they have all needs covered. Planning your water damage recovery when the pipes burst is not the best way.

Jeffrey Cohn

SI Restoration

IICRC certified

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