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Author: Luke Armstrong

Expert in emergency fire and water restoration services, fire cleanup and water damage cleanup, mold removal, as well as commercial and residential cleaning services, including carpet, upholstery and furniture cleaning. Contributor to several restoration and cleaning blogs.
How to Make Your Home Flood Proof
Cleaning and restoration tips, Water damage restoration

How to Make Your Home Flood Proof

If you own a home, there are many steps to take, both big and small, to prevent flooding in your home. But before taking these steps below, it is important to assess the flood risk in your geographical area. Simply type in your address on FEMA’s (Federal Emergency Management Agency) flood maps and you can identify your flood risk and whether you are in a low, medium, or high-risk area. After determining your geographical flood risk, you may want to customize your flood prevention plan accordingly. Determine Your Risk of Flooding You will also want to note the date on the maps, as some of them are severely outdated. So of course, the flood risk will change over time and the actual risk in your area will be different than what is reflected on the map. You will also want to discus...
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Fall and Winter Home Maintenance Tips
Cleaning and restoration tips

Fall and Winter Home Maintenance Tips

We’ve all felt it. That slow temperature drop that comes every October. Drops in temperature mean it is time for fall and winter home maintenance. Even though winter has yet to hit us, find out some winterizing tips for your home. Fall Home Maintenance Tips Ceiling Fans - This is an old trick and we often forget about our fans in the colder months, but by reversing the direction of the blades you then force warmer air back into the living space. Thermostat - Setting the right temperature is very important when it comes to your heating costs. Just one-degree difference can save you anywhere from 1-3% of your heating bill. - Keep in mind that if during the day no one is home, lowering your thermostat even lower can significantly lower your bills as well. Furn...
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How to File an Insurance Claim for Fire and Smoke Damage
Fire Damage Restoration, Smoke Damage Cleanup

How to File an Insurance Claim for Fire and Smoke Damage

While many of us have renter’s or homeowner’s insurance policies that cover fire damage, deciding what to do after a property fire can be daunting. But property owners aren’t just dealing with damage from the flames, they will find that their building materials and contents will be covered in an oily, thick residue from smoke damage as well as wet surfaces from the fire hose. While these materials will need emergency fire damage restoration services in order to save as much time and money in the repair process, an insurance claim will need to be filed beforehand to cover the costs. Damages Caused by the Smoke Even after the flames have been extinguished, the majority of the damage is still spreading from extra soot and smoke byproducts covering the household surfaces. Especially f...
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Insurance Coverage for Ceiling Water Damage: What You Need to Know
Water damage restoration

Insurance Coverage for Ceiling Water Damage: What You Need to Know

Water damage to ceilings can be a frustrating and expensive issue for homeowners to deal with. Whether it's the result of a leaky roof, burst pipes, or other water-related incidents, the consequences of ceiling water damage can range from unsightly stains to structural compromises. The good news is that in many cases, homeowner's insurance can provide coverage for such damages. However, understanding the intricacies of insurance coverage for ceiling water damage is crucial to ensuring a smoother claims process and avoiding potential financial pitfalls. In this article, we'll explore what you need to know about insurance coverage for ceiling water damage. Types of Insurance Policies Before delving into the details of insurance coverage, it's important to know tha...
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How Much Does Water Damage Restoration Cost?
Water damage cleanup, Water damage restoration

How Much Does Water Damage Restoration Cost?

Torrential rains, violent storms, burst pipes, faulty appliances, leaky faucets, clogged toilets, foundation cracks, and leaking roofs can all result in severe water damage to a home. Yet, every water damage scenario is different – the extent and type of damage vary considerably from one situation to the next and so do the required mitigation procedures. It is, therefore, impossible to have a set cost for water damage restoration - each restoration job is unique and the price can range from as little as $500 to over $10,000, depending on the specific circumstances in every individual case. Clear water from broken pipes or rain, for example, is less difficult and less costly to clean up than water from a backed-up sewer line; household surfaces that have been dried out within 48 hour...
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How to Dry Wet Wood
Water damage restoration

How to Dry Wet Wood

Water damage can occur in numerous ways. Weather can cause water damage by way of heavy rainfall and flooding. Internal issues can cause water damage by way of pipe bursts, leaks, and other internal property issues. No matter how water damage occurs, properties are in danger. Porous materials, like wood, are especially at risk for suffering water damage. What Happens to Water-Damaged Wood? When excess water and moisture enter a property, porous materials and furnishings absorb it. As this absorption occurs, the materials become weaker. The more water these materials take in, the more damage they sustain. With enough time and absorption, damaged items may experience structural damage and are at risk for mold growth. Many homes and commercial properties are made using porous building ma...
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Fixing Water Damaged Ceiling: Water Restoration
Water damage restoration

Fixing Water Damaged Ceiling: Water Restoration

Especially if it is in an open area, a ceiling with a patch of water damage can really detract from the aesthetics of an entire room. If there are multiple spots in a commercial building, it can impact the first impression of a customer or client. But many property owners shy away from the hassle of having it fixed, due to money, time, or not knowing how to fix it themselves. However, as long as it is not significant, a small area of the water-damaged ceiling can be fixed cost-effectively with the use of a few products and equipment, including a paint scraper or putty knife, utility knife, nails and screws, power drill, hammer, sandpaper, joint compound, plywood or particleboard, primer, and paint (make sure that the color matches your ceiling). Steps to Fix a Water-Damaged Ceiling 1. Re...
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5 Signs of Basement Water Damage
Water damage restoration

5 Signs of Basement Water Damage

Due to a number of factors, basement water damage is very common. The source and amount of damage can also determine the category and class of damage. Category 3 Water Damage There are three categories of water damage. Category 1. The water comes from a sanitary source and is not dangerous. Category 2. This is greywater, meaning it is contaminated and dangerous. Category 3. This is blackwater, often containing biohazards and toxic materials. Water Damage Classes There are four classes of water damage that are based on the rate of evaporation. Class 1 is considered the slowest. Class 1. Affects a part of the room with minimal absorption. Class 2. Affects all of the carpeted room and soaks into the walls up to two feet. Class 3. Affects walls and ceilings. The s...
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Understanding the Hidden Dangers of Water Damage: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners
Water damage restoration

Understanding the Hidden Dangers of Water Damage: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Water damage is a silent threat that can wreak havoc on your home and health if left unchecked. From insidious mold growth to severe structural damage, the consequences of water damage can be devastating. As a homeowner, it is crucial to be aware of the risks associated with water damage and take proactive measures to protect your property and loved ones. This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on the hidden dangers of water damage, provide valuable insights into its potential consequences, and offer essential tips on detecting early signs and seeking professional restoration services promptly. 1. The Silent Menace: Understanding Water Damage a. Causes of Water Damage: Natural disasters (floods, storms, hurricanes) Plumbing issues (leaky pipes, burst...
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Fireworks Safety: Restoring Homes After Fourth of July Celebration
Fire Damage Restoration

Fireworks Safety: Restoring Homes After Fourth of July Celebration

The Fourth of July is a time of celebration, a day when families and friends come together to commemorate the birth of the United States. It is a day filled with barbecues, parades, and, of course, fireworks. While fireworks are a stunning display of light and sound, it is essential to remember that they can also pose a significant risk to our homes and communities. As we revel in the festivities, it is crucial to be mindful of fireworks safety and take steps to restore our homes after the celebrations. Fireworks are undeniably captivating. They light up the night sky, eliciting oohs and aahs from spectators. However, they are explosives, and mishandling them can have severe consequences. Every year, numerous accidents occur due to improper use of fireworks, leading to injuries, propert...
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