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Water Damage in Commercial Buildings

admin — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 11:23:14 +0000

Water damage in a commercial building can be particularly troublesome because it can affect more than a single occupant of the building. This is particularly true in multi-floor buildings, where water can travel from an upper story all the way to the ground floor. Multiple businesses or offices can be put out of commission until water damage is corrected, leading to loss of income and even severe hardship for the employees if they are unable to return to work for a period of time while damage is dealt with.

Causes of water damage in a multi floor commercial building can include:

*Heavy rain and flooding
*Burst water pipes
*Overflowing toilets or sinks

Water from an upper floor bathroom leak, for example, can cause damage to the ceiling of the floor below. If sufficient water leakage occurs, this damage could even extend to the next floor below the leak.

Water damage is more easily dealt with if it is managed before the damage becomes severe. Leaks that begin when the commercial building is unoccupied, such as overnight or on a weekend, could become severe before anyone notices they have occurred, leading to much worse and more extensive damage. If water reaches expensive business equipment such as copiers, fax machines or computers, damage could prove to be extremely costly. In addition, if water damages vital paperwork, records or files, the company could suffer the loss of irreplaceable data.

In some cases, water damaged items can be restored so that they are once again usable. In addition to taking necessary precautions to prevent water damage in your commercial building, be sure to back up all computer records, maintain duplicate copies of paper records and, if water damage does occur, contact a water damage restoration expert to help recover your damaged items, equipment and information.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

Water Damage from Old Pipes and Hoses

admin — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 17:10:13 +0000

Water damage can be as devastating to a home as fire damage. Whether the water comes from flooding or from a burst pipe, a large portion of your home and possessions can be subjected to major damage or loss.

One major source of water damage is old pipes within your home or old, worn out hoses. Because there is often a large volume of water flowing through pipes and hoses, a great deal of damage can occur when these conduits burst or are damaged. Maintaining the pipes and hoses in your home, as well as turning off or monitoring water flow at certain times, can help prevent this kind of damage.

Prevent Bursting Pipes

Pipes bursting during the winter are a common cause of major water damage. This can be particularly devastating if you are away on a holiday vacation when it occurs. Old pipes, because they can be weaker and may be already partially damaged, are more susceptible to bursting. In order to prevent pipes from bursting, you should:

*Replace old or damaged pipes.
*Install insulation on your pipes. This is relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
*Turn the thermostat down to as low as 55 degrees, but do not turn it off completely.
*Have a friend or neighbor stop by to check your home.

Preventing Leakage from Hoses

Garden hoses and hoses attached to appliances can also lead to water leaks and damage. To prevent this type of damage, you should:

* Drain hoses completely after use. Do not leave the hose sitting with water in it.
*Turn off the water flow to washing machine hoses if you are going to be gone for a period of time.
*Replace any old or damaged hoses.

By following these simple guidelines, you can protect your home by greatly reducing the chances of water damage from old pipes and hoses.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

How Does Mold Travel in a Home?

admin — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 12:13:14 +0000

Mold is a common problem in many houses. Fortunately, most mold is fairly harmless, possibly causing mild allergic reactions or simply contributing to aesthetic problems. In some cases, though, mold can lead to serious health problems.

Where Does Mold Come From?

Mold is a fungus, like a mushroom but on a microscopic level. Mold is present at all times in the air, but does not become a problem until conditions allow it to proliferate. Once mold has taken hold, it can damage the surface where it is growing. The growing mold will release additional spores into the air, leading to allergies, asthma, or, depending upon the type of mold, serious breathing problems or permanent cognitive degeneration if the mold releases toxic compounds. Black mold is one type of mold that can lead to long term, serious and even fatal health issues.

Mold grows quickly, and often goes unnoticed until it has affected a large, visible area of the house. Warm, damp conditions are most likely to spur mold growth, meaning that the bathroom area is particularly vulnerable.

How Does Mold Travel?

An opportunistic traveler, mold is carried through the air, into heating ducts, on clothing and even on the fur of the family pet. Mold growing on any surface in the home will release additional mold spores that will then travel to other areas of the house. If these spores find a warm, moist area, they are likely to begin to grow there, leading to another colony of mold and the potential that even more mold will spread throughout the home.

If mold has infested a given area, it is important to eradicate it before it causes damage or proliferates to a point where it is difficult to remove. If mold has become particularly widespread or stubborn, contact a mold removal specialist to help remove it permanently.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

Water Damage Effects on Linoleum Flooring

admin — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 12:32:21 +0000

When torrential rains or busted water pipes flood a house, homeowners are at a loss. Most people do not know how to deal effectively with a flooded home. Some things in a water-damaged home are not salvageable. However, linoleum is not one of them if handled in the proper manner. That is why many people hire a restoration company to clean up after a floor has been flooded.

Wiping the water from linoleum is simply not sufficient. Linoleum will stain if exposed to water for a long period. The linoleum needs removed quickly and thoroughly dried to salvage it. That is only the beginning step. The sub floor has to completely dry as well. The sub floor is the foundation for the linoleum, so it is vital that that it be done right.

The sub floor requires quick and thorough drying, or the homeowner will experience problems in the future. If linoleum lies on a damp sub floor, mold will grow in the moist environment between the two. It may take a little longer, but if the sub floor is anything other than concrete, it will begin to rot. The homeowner may never see the mold or rot until it is too late to do anything but replace the entire sub floor and linoleum.

One advantage to hiring a restoration company is they have the equipment needed to dry the floor as quickly as possible. A restoration company will remove and salvage the linoleum by using big fans and vacuums. Fans and vacuums brought into the home will thoroughly dry the sub floors. When the floor is completely dry, the salvaged linoleum can be re-laid. Since the floor is dry, no mold or rot will exist between the linoleum and the sub floor.

The majority of insurance companies will pay, or partially pay, for the cost of a restoration company. It will depend on each individual insurance policy and coverage. It is more cost effective, for an insurance company to pay to have everything dried thoroughly, than the replacement cost of linoleum and sub floor later.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

Soot damage to a home effects on health

admin — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 12:21:20 +0000

A fire is often a traumatic event for a person, especially if one’s home or office is affected. However, what many people do not consider following a fire are the after-effects. The property in question may still be intact, but there may be a lot of soot to deal with. Dealing with such an issue is more than simply having a couch vacuumed or washing a rug. Instead, it means that you will have to call in a professional company to deal with all of the soot. The following are some of the major effects of having soot in a home.

Soot can ruin a home. It is incredibly hard to get rid of. This debris has been known to stay in a home for more than a decade, even with constant cleaning. This means that your home may not be the same if you do not enlist the help of experts who know how to rid a space of soot. You do not want your home to smell and look like soot months or years after a fire.

And of course, there are some serious health risks to having soot in a home. This is something that can affect a person’s breathing. If you or loved ones already have allergies and issues with asthma, this can make it nearly impossible to sleep at night. Additionally, soot is more than dirt: It can have harmful chemicals and pieces of glass in it, which is why you should take the time to rid your home or space of this. Talk to professionals and they can come in with the latest equipment and techniques to thoroughly clean your home.

Soot damage is a serious after effect of a fire, which is why it is important to really talk to professionals about cleaning up after a fire. Treat this seriously so that you do not put your loved ones’ health at danger or have to deal with the smell and look of soot in every nook and cranny of your home or office.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

Infrared imaging, why you need it after water damage

admin — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 14:45:35 +0000

After a fire or flood, it is important to really take care of a space. The property may still be standing, but there will no doubt be a lot of water damage, soot, and debris to take care of. Do not think that you can handle all of this yourself. Dealing with the aftermath of a natural disaster or accident can be really difficult. You just may not have the technology, skill, or training to thoroughly clean a space following water damage. This is why you should talk to a company that is well versed in how to detect and deal with water damage. Such companies are often used by huge corporations and companies and by insurance groups looking to deal with such issues in a quick, efficient, and cost effective manner. The following are some reasons for why you should invest in such a group and to invest in infrared imaging.

Sometimes, water damage is not simply mopping up excess water and calling it a day. Water can seep into everything from carpets to walls. By using the latest in infrared imaging, one can spot water damage or leakage they may not normally see with just their eyes. This means that what could ruin a home’s structure and property could be removed. State of the art electronics are important because they can save you a lot of money when it comes to repair costs. After all, you do not want to receive your insurance payout or compensation until you know the full extent of all the damages. This is why infrared imaging is just so valuable an investment and why you should always work with water damage experts after a flood, fire, or similar issue.

Be smart so that your investments are always protected. Using the latest imaging techniques and equipment means that you will never have to worry that there is water still lurking in your home. Cover all your bases and work with professionals who will explore every nook and cranny of a home or commercial space.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

Most Common Places To Check For Mold Growth

admin — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 19:24:12 +0000

Mold Growth – What To Look For
Mold growth can be dangerous. Particularly, if it’s black mold. Mold occurs as a result of too much moisture in an enclosed area. Spores form and begin to grow into full colonies until they are large enough to be visible with the human eye. Mold can be a result of moisture in an enclosed room with too high a temperature or even in ambient temperatures where spores can attach themselves to walls and floors. This is the most common place to find mold growth.

Check Regularly For Mold Growth
In homes where there are high levels of humidity, homes and buildings are often the most common places to check for mold growth. Check basement floors and walls regularly for signs of moisture or moisture vapors in small cracks and crevices. Don’t overlook the upper levels of structures either. Many times, black mold growth can develop around water pipes under the kitchen or bathroom sinks. If the structure has had any damage due to basement flooding or water damage from a fire, it is important to have the structure thoroughly inspected for mold as soon as possible.

Mold In The Refrigerator?
Mold occurs in and around refrigerators as a result of inadequate maintenance. Check behind refrigerators as well as in any collection pans where condensation can occur. Condensation is one of the chief reasons for mold growth. So also check dishwashers and garbage disposal units thoroughly. A reputable inspection and maintenance company that specializes in mold growth remediation is the best way to remediate any problems or potential problems. These professional consultants know all of the most important areas of a structure that can cause mold growth. They can provide a check list after their inspections are done and offer advice to reduce mold growth in the future.

Mold Growth – An Odor Problem
Whenever there is a mold growth problem, by the time mold odors are detected in a structure, it may already be too late to do it yourself to remove the source. Call in a professional for maximum peace of mind.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

Do you have the proper insurance for water damage?

admin — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 19:07:13 +0000

No one goes to sleep and thinks that they will wake up to a major flood or natural disaster. However, emergencies and accidents are not planned. If your home or office has experienced water damage, it is important to really protect yourself. The right insurance means that you will be able to clean up and repair your space after there is some serious water damage. The following are some of the many things to consider when searching for proper coverage for such issues.

First, always read up on any home or property insurance plan you may have. Make sure that it specifically states that it will cover water damage. You do not want to have a natural disaster strike only to realize that because the word water is not mentioned in the plan that you will not be covered. The fine print really does matter. This is why you should ask any and all questions before you sign on the dotted line and commit to any one plan or company. Be smart about this investment so that you always have the help you need when a crisis or emergency strikes.

Similarly, talk to the company to see how such damages or issues are dealt with. Some companies will work with a restoration company and have any and all repairs – from dealing with mold to cleaning up the water – dealt with directly. However, other coverage or plans will offer you payouts so that you can then handle the damage yourself. It is important to know how this process works so that you are not surprised when it comes time to deal with such an issue.

The more prepared you are, the better off you will be. Do not wonder if your insurance plan covers water damage. Ask the company and try to amend this if you find out you do not have coverage. Water damage can ruin a home: not only can it destroy your property but it can result in mold and wood warping, which could make your home unlivable. Protect yourself so that you have the help you need following a flood or emergency.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

How Fast Can Mold Grow And Become A Problem?

admin — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 14:25:19 +0000

Unfortunately, mold can be found almost anywhere. However, when mold is present in the indoor environment there is usually moisture present. Mold especially likes to grow where temperatures are 68°F, dim lighting, and very little air circulation. Mold spores are known to travel throughout the air, attach itself to any damp surface, and then begin breaking down the material as it grows. Therefore, it is vitally important for homeowners to contact a mold remediation company when they have experienced a flood or fire in their home.

How Fast Can Mold Grow?

Surprisingly, mold will start growing immediately after spores are attached to an item. Mold can easily grow within 24 to 48 hours, and will begin to colonize in 1 to 12 days. Most times, mold is already a problem before it is discovered. Due to the fact, that the spores are hard to destroy, mold will sometimes return even after the mold source is gone. That’s why it is vitally important to contact a mold restoration company for appropriate and permanent remediation.

When Can I Know That Mold May Be Present In My Home?

Homeowners who have experienced certain problems which are known to be favorable to mold, will usually have mold present. Such mold causing problems are:

Fire
Flood
Plumbing leaks
Leaky Roof
Swollen floor boards/walls
Water stained ceilings

Where Does In-Door Mold Like To Grow?

In-door mold likes to grow on wet cellulose materials. However, homeowners should keep in mind that mold can still grow even when the moisture problem has been fixed. At this time the mold will go dormant, and continue surviving without moisture. Most likely, mold will just continue to feed on materials such as sheetrock, ceiling tiles, wallpaper, carpet, wood, adhesives, paints, upholstery, and fabric.

What Are The Health Effects Due To Mold Exposure?

Mold can be extremely harmful to people. Many of the symptoms related to mold resembles that of a common cold or allergy condition. Therefore, often times the appropriate diagnoses goes undetected. However, most common symptoms that are associated with mold exposure are:

Wheezy/coughing
Watery/Red Eyes
Nasal and sinus congestion
Throat irritation
Skin irritation
Nosebleeds
Headaches
Extreme fatigue
Memory loss
Dizziness
Fevers

In addition, mold can also cause very serious conditions, and can be fatal to infants, seniors, and adults with previously compromised immune systems.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059

Where did this water come from?

admin — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 18:15:18 +0000

The most common cause of water damage is flooding due to a river or creek jumping its banks and coming into your home. Other less common causes of water damage can be just as detrimental to your home and your belongings.

Water Heater Leaks
Most homes have a water heater, and most homeowners do not think about it unless it is either not working properly or bursts. Therefore, it is often out of sight, and out of mind for most homeowners. It is common for these to leak as they age, and over time, the leaking can cause significant damage to the floor and subfloor on which the water heater sits. Therefore, it is important to check your water heater and if there is water leaking from either the top or bottom, call a maintenance man to take a look to determine if you could have a larger problem on your hands.

Pipe Bursting Or Leaking
The walls of most homes not only separate living spaces from one another, but also house wiring and plumbing that serves your family’s needs. Pipes buried in between pieces of plaster or sheetrock can burst from freezing or just from age. Older pipes are prone to have weak spots that could burst and cause water damage within the walls that can go unnoticed if it is only a small drip. If you notice wet spots at the bottom of your walls, it may be indicative of a larger problem.

Ew… Mold!
All water damage, large or small, can cause mold to incubate and grow in your home. Mold is unhealthy to all people, but especially young children and the elderly. Breathing in mold spores can cause respiratory issues and can cause you to develop a more serious problem. Therefore, it is important that if your home sustains water damage from an obvious flood or one of the more subtle ways described above, you must contact a remediation company immediately to ensure that the damage is addressed.

Hopefully, these helpful tips on water damage have been helpful and will allow you to be more aware of what may be going on in your home that is difficult to detect.

Call us today for a free consultation 800-516-8059 or by email at: info@superrestoration.comIn your service,

Rene Vargas
Super Restoration
1 800 516 8059