On The Waterfront...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 12:38:00 +0000

After the torrential rains this past summer, I was called to a flood job in Brookline MA. Upon arriving, I found the entire finished basement had water damage. The home owner was unsure as to where the water had come from. He said he never had a problem with a wet basement in the past. After my technicians extracted the water, they found that water was seeping in thru a crack on the floor. I showed the owner where the water was coming from and explained that “because this was not a pipe break, unfortunately, it probably would not be covered by insurance.” (But I did suggest that he call his insurance agent to be sure).

Next, I figured out the amount of equipment needed to dry out the home so I could give the home owner an estimation of what it would cost. After giving him a price, the home owner asked me a great question “what is the difference between AC and a Dehumidifier?” “Because central air conditioner removes humidity, right?” The home owner thought that he could save a little money by not renting a dehumidifier.

I explained to him that the difference between AC and a dehumidifier is not very great. An air conditioner like a dehumidifier pulls warm moist air over its cold coils; the difference is that AC does not reheat the air beforeexhausting into your home. What you get is nice cold air blowing out of the Air conditioning unit. It also doesn’t have a humidistat, so when the home reaches a preset temperature the AC will shut down, even though your home may still have high humidity. But more importantly, depending on when you turn on the air conditioner, it may do more harm than good. For example if the temperature in your flooded home is 74⁰ degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity (RH) is 90% and you turn on the air conditioning system, when the cool air coming out hits the dew point at about 70⁰ degrees it’s going to start raining (condensation) all over the inside of your home. So it’s best to use a dehumidifier and not an air conditioning to help dry out your home. The dehumidifiers job is solely to remove humidity.

There are times however when an air conditioning system can help if certain conditions are present. But this should be left up to a water damage restoration professional to monitor the home’s environment to determine when it is the best time to turn on and off the AC unit.

In conclusion the difference between an AC and a dehumidifier is not much, but the usefulness of each system can be quite different in each situation.

Original Article

Water Damage Local.com is available 24/7 to handle all of your water restoration needs.

Five Steps To Mold Free...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 12:10:00 +0000

If there is anything that has been established beyond all reasonable doubt over the course of writing this blog, it is that mold is the single most common and most dangerous side effect of water damage. As I’ve said before, it shows up within 48 hours following a water damage event, spreads rapidly, can be extremely difficult to remediate, and can bring with it all manner of various and sundry health problems. To put it mildly, mold can be a bear to deal with.

We have also talked at length about how to deal with mold if you find it in your home or business. What we haven’t talked much about, however, are the simple things you can do to prevent the problem from cropping up in the first place. That being said, I present you with five basic steps you can take in your home to reduce the chances of mold occurring.

Ceiling fans. These are an excellent and inexpensive way to combat mold. They are ornate and functional, adding beauty to your home while at the same time increasing the air circulation for the room they are in, keeping things cool in the winter and warm in the summer (a fan will prevent the heat from rising as quickly).

Proper air circulation is vital to preventing mold from making an appearance, and ceiling fans go a long way towards helping this goal.

Dehumidifiers. You see these mentioned a lot in our blog entries, usually as something to be utilized after the water damage fact. Yet they are a valuable commodity. Costing around $200 for a decent model, dehumidifiers do exactly what their name implies, they remove excess humidity from the surrounding air, making it inhospitable for mold spores to take root and grow.

Bathroom exhaust. You could easily make your own jokes here, but I’m referring to the idea of removing humidity from what is normally one of the most humid rooms in any household. Showers and baths build up moisture levels rapidly, so using your bathroom fan really helps keep levels in check. Mold is quite common in bathrooms, however, so keep an eye out for it around sinks, showers and tubs, and treat these small growths before they have the chance to be fruitful and multiply.

Bleach is a common weapon used against mold. It is one of the accepted cleaning agents for mold growth, and spraying mold prone areas with bleach every week or two is a good way to prevent mold from getting a foothold and becoming a serious problem. Always wear gloves when working with bleach, and make sure the area where you are working is properly ventilated.

Keep things clean. I’ve long maintained that the best defense is a great offense. Keeping your bathroom, kitchen, and other surfaces clean will do much when it comes to preventing mold. It is far easier to keep it clean now as opposed to having to declare war on a mold invasion later on. Adopt a cleaning schedule for your home and stick to it.

Of course if you do have mold, it isn’t enough to simply clean it up….you have to make the environment an unwelcome one for mold spores. Clean up, disinfect, sanitize, but go one further and increase the ventilation. Bring down the humidity levels. Only by doing so will you be able to prevent the mold from returning like some refugee from a Grade Z horror film.

Water Damage Local.com is of course available 24/7 to handle all of your mold removal and other water restoration problems.

Saving Water Damaged Carpet....

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:38:00 +0000

It takes less than an inch of water to cause serious damage to the carpeting in your home. Not only is the carpet itself soaked, but the padding beneath is ruined, and the flooring and drywall may also end up warping or cracking. Basically, it makes for a lot of problems.

In almost every case, the easiest thing to do would be to simply throw the damaged carpet out and start all over again with new, but for some reason, there are folks who exist in this world who feel it necessary to do all they can to save their carpeting. The good news is, it can be done. The bad news is, once you do it, you may find yourself convinced that throwing it out should have been your first choice.

But I digress. Water damaged carpets can be cleaned, provided that they have been soaked for less than 48 hours, and provided that the water in question is not sewage based. If you have a sewage problem, skip the rest of this article and just throw the carpet out. You’ve got far more serious issues to contend with. Trust me on this one.

When it comes to cleaning a water damaged carpet, the first thing to do (as with any kind of water damage) is to locate the source of the water and shut it off. This prevents more water from coming in, but it also allows you to determine what kind of water you’re dealing with.

The excess water will need to be removed from the carpet. Usually this is accomplished through the use of a wet dry vac unit or pump. Most of the water can be removed during this process, but not all of it. The bad news is that the carpet will still retain a good bit of moisture, not to mention that found beneath the carpet or in the walls. The good news is that the carpet should now be light enough to lift.

Yes, children, I said lift. The carpet will need to be taken up and moved outside to completely dry, preferably somewhere that it can be laid flat, such as a patio or driveway, and in direct sunlight. You can also use fans or blowers to help speed the process along. Laying the carpet out flat is imperative…..otherwise it may dry unevenly and may not even fit back into the room from whence it came.

Once the carpet is dried out, it will need to be clean, disinfected, and sanitized…..twice. That’s right, once it’s all done, do it again for good measure. You want it to be as clean and fresh as it can possibly be before putting it back down.

While the carpet is drying, don’t neglect the flooring. Chuck all the padding out the door and replace it with new padding. Trying to repair damaged carpet padding is an exercise in futility. Don’t put yourself through it.

Make sure the flooring is dried out, cleaned, disinfected, sanitized, you know the drill. All surfaces must be completely dry before the carpet is put back down, or else you’re inviting mold to start growing.

Depending on the depth of the water, check the surrounding drywall for the telltale stains or swelling that usually accompany water damage. The drywall may have to be cut and either partially or wholly replaced.

Remember, the operative word in the whole operation is “dry”. Everything must be completely dried out in order to prevent subsequent problems from materializing.

Again, my advice would be to call in an airstrike and start all over again, but if you are one of those folks who believe that your carpet can be saved, and that we have the technology, etc etc……then the good news is that it can be done, provided you act swiftly and thoroughly.

Water Damage Local.com is available 24/7 to handle all of your flood damage and waterrestoration needs. Call today for a free estimate.

The Water Removal Process...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:48:00 +0000

With any sort of water damage, be it a pitcher of tea overturned in your living room or the pipes bursting in the upstairs bath, the overriding goal is still the same, to remove the excess water and dry everything out promptly to insure against further problems such as staining, rotting, smelling, or at the very worst, mold and mildew.

Even the smallest of spills, such as the aforementioned pitcher, can leave unsightly stains on carpeting and may even result in some measure of mildew if not properly wiped up. You can imagine how severe a more serious spill or flood situation might be.

So we look at a severe situation, such as the burst pipes. Say they are in your kitchen and water has flooded into your living area and soaked your carpet. A half inch of water may not sound all that bad, but look at your living room and imagine a half inch of water and see just how much of it could be affected. So what do you do?

First things first: locate the source of the spill and shut it off. This will not only prevent more water from coming in, but it will also give you an idea of what kind of water you are dealing with. Check out this article on types of water damage for details.

You should also shut off any utilities at their source. Water and electricity make strange bedfellows and leaking gas can cause fire or explosion….either scenario could have unfortunate results.

You should also open windows and doors and get air moving through the area. The vast majority of the restoration process will happen through air circulation. Loose items and furniture should also be removed to a safe place for drying and cleaning.

Excess water should be removed using a wet dry vac unit or pump, depending on depth and severity, and this process may take several hours.

Once the excess is removed, don’t make the mistake of assuming it’s all over, as even a touch will reveal that surfaces are still quite wet. Even concrete can manage to retain a significant amount of moisture. You’ll need to make use of fans, blowers, and other air movers to finish the process we like to refer to as “secondary drying”. Dehumidifiers will also need to be used to bring down the level of moisture. Excessive moisture can set the stage for additional problems such as mold.

Carpets will need to be taken up, dried, cleaned and disinfected, along with the flooring beneath as well as any drywall that may have been affected.

If all this sounds like a lot, it is. That’s where Water Damage Local.com comes in. We are a nationwide network of water restoration providers, available 24/7 and able to provide a full range of services from water removal to structural restoration and everything in between.

Contact the professionals at Water Damage Local.com for all of your water damage and flood restoration needs.

The Age Old Question: Are You Covered?

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:28:00 +0000

In the fading wake of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, more and more property owners are waking up to some fairly unpleasant news, namely that they are not in fact covered for such a disaster by their homeowners’ insurance policy. Some insurance agencies are reporting near round the clock calls from harried homeowners, and have had to hire additional phone help to handle the overload.

Water damage is a tricky issue when it comes to insurance. In most cases, flood damage is not covered, and in many cases, general water damage isn’t covered if it can be in any way proven that the damage was the result of negligence on the part of the homeowner.

If the exterior of your home was damaged by a tree falling due to high winds, that would be covered, but water in your basement as a result of a flash flood likely would not. It would be seen as a scenario that was preventable by most insurance companies.

Most homeowner’s policies include living expenses for occupants to stay somewhere else while the home is repaired, but flood insurance does not.

Of course the best thing for any homeowner to do (and this is not the first time I have written this particular piece of advice) is to go and have a sit down meeting with your homeowners’ policy provider. Go through your policy step by step and determine what is and what is not covered. If you do not have flood insurance, check to see if your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is the government provider for flood damage insurance, and add the coverage you feel is necessary to protect you and your home and family.

Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program covers water damage caused by water that has either migrated over two parcels or engulfed two acres of land. Any items you wish to have covered must be listed on the policy.

As of April 2010, the program insured about 5.5 million homes, the majority of which were in Texas and Florida. While recent storms have depleted much of the NFIP’s funds, the government has passed legislation guaranteeing continuance of the program for at least another two years.

Water Damage Local.com works alongside your insurance company and claims adjust throughout the repair and restoration process. We take care of the red tape and paperwork; that way you have one less headache to worry about. We figure you have enough problems by this point already.

And of course we are available 24/7/365, with a full staff of trained professionals, the latest in water restoration gear and procedures, and offer a full range of services from water removal and drying, to carpet cleaning and mold removal, to structural repair and restoration. We can have a technician out to your property within an hour of your call, ready to assess the problem and begin the restoration process.

Don’t wait for the rain, go ahead today and contact Water Damage Local.com to get connected with an IICRC certified provider in your area. It doesn’t matter if there isn’t a cloud in the sky or if you are in a brand new home with new pipes…..make the call today for peace of mind tomorrow.

Tips On Documenting Flood Damage For An Insurance Claim

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 13:38:00 +0000

Suffering with flooding in your home is something that nobody wants to have to experience, and trying to cope and recover what is possible from such flooding is something that everyone will want to do. One of the most important thing when it comes to dealing with flood damage is that it is vital to comprehensively document any damage that has occurred, and to take pictures of everything before it is disposed of in order to show to the insurance company, so that they cannot suggest that items that weren’t affected by the flood damage was disposed of.

Dealing with insurance companies is something that many people will find to be a frustrating and difficult experience, although there certainly has been a focus on the treatment of customers in such situations where flood damage has caused significant destruction in the family home, and is inevitably a very stressful time for people. However, by being proactive and friendly with the insurance company, and especially the officer who will be dealing with your flood damage claim, you are much more likely to get a human response, and will enjoy a better rapport with that person.

There are so many things that will need to be done if the flood damage has been extensive. And with most homes containing thousands of pounds worth of goods that will need to be repaired or replaced, and there will often be structural or electrical damage too, then repairs can lead to a long term process. Trying to be systematic in a difficult situation is certainly an attitude that will pay dividends, and being reasonable and calm about the situation will also help in dealing with the insurance company and helping to progress towards a solution and full repair of the damage caused by the flood.

Taking as many photographs as possible, both of the damage to the house itself and of any damage to the goods and fittings within the house can be a good place to start, as they will provide the evidence that insurance companies may ask for at a later date. This will also help to inventory everything that is removed from the house because of the flood damage, and will be included in the claim that will eventually be paid out by the insurance company. They will also find that photographs will help to identify any issues that need to be dealt with, and the kind of repairs to the flood damage that may be necessary.

Finding that flood damage has struck your home is something that is painful to see, and can often cause a lot of heartache to those people who have suffered from an unexpected or particularly severe flood. However, by being diligent in dealing with the damage and cooperating with the insurance company as much as possible, it can be possible to get the right result from a flood damage insurance claim, and have the claim processed in a timely and efficient way.

Flooding, Then Mold, Then What?

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:55:00 +0000

Property owners still reeling from the effects of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee are slowly discovering the less glamorous part of storm damage, namely the proliferation of mold in and around their homes and businesses.

The fuzzy, greenish-black stains along their walls are bad enough, but what is worse are the mold problems that remain unseen, those growths that generate inside drywall or within basements and crawlspaces, in short those elements that you won’t find unless you know where to look. Mold spores will be rampant in the surrounding air following a flood damage event, and all it needs to put down roots and grow is sufficient moisture and / or humidity. It only takes a single spore to start a brand new mold colony, and with thousands of spores occupying an enclosed area, it becomes rather obvious just how rapidly the problem can get out of hand.

Mold occurs naturally in the outdoor environment, acting as nature’s recycling system, breaking down dead plant and animal tissue, reducing it to its base elements such as carbon and nitrogen. Most homes are dry enough to prevent any significant mold growth, save for regular humid spots such as your bathroom, however flood damaged homes can accumulate more than sufficient moisture to sustain a mold colony.

This week, along Irene’s and Lee’s paths, homeowners are beginning to see the first traces of mold in their damaged homes. If the growth is caught early enough, remediation presents no problem, but if the colony has had time to grow and spread, more intensive, professional treatment may be required.

Obviously, the first step is to get rid of the mold and thoroughly dry the area. But this alone is not enough to guarantee that the mold will not return. Any items exhibiting mold growth should be thrown out. Moldy clothes can be washed and the mold killed, but even dead mold can become a serious irritant, especially to folks with severe allergies.

Equipment and tools made of metal can be bleached and saved. For objects of high value, remove the mold by freezing the object in the refrigerator and scraping or sanding off the frozen remains.

The only way to fully prevent mold from returning is to properly treat the affected area, and then make sure the environment is not one that would be conducive to mold growth. Drying out the area is one thing, but then making sure humidity and moisture levels are significantly decreased is quite another, often requiring the aid of a dehumidifier (perhaps several). Resist the urge to use fans as they can help spread mold spores into other areas of your home. Humidity levels in the home environment should always be kept below 50% if you want any sort of guaranteed results at all.

Homeowners can remove mold from wood framing with sandpaper. Professionals may also use pressure treatments of dry ice or baking soda, microbicide sprays and sealants. Some hardware stores may carry microbicides and sealants.

The Center For Disease Control recommends wearing a N95 face mask when working around mold to prevent inhalation of mold spores into your respiratory system.

Mold is usually harmless, we encounter it in our showers and tubs all the time, but in large enough concentrations it can become a primary cause of respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and in some cases, more severe neurological disorders. It is always advisable to have large mold colonies removed by a professional.

And of course by professional, we mean the pros at Water Damage Local.com, who are available 24/7 and ready to handle all of your water removal and mold remediation needs.

If You Have A Flooded Basement...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 13:30:00 +0000

In the majority of situations, people who find that they have a flooded basement, or that the waters have receded, will usually start by contacting their insurance company, although if the basement is still flooded then trying to drain or pump out the water will certainly be a priority. There is no doubt that it will be a difficult process, and there are a lot of things that will be affected by the consequences of a flooded basement. But ultimately, it will require a lot of work and often a long time before the basement can be fully repaired and you can be certain there is no more residual damage to come.

One of the biggest problems when it comes to a flooded basement is that much of the woodwork that actually supports the house can become immersed in floodwater. There are a range of issues that will need to be dealt with when looking at the beams and floorboards that may have been damaged by the flood. Large wooden beams can often take months to dry out entirely, and one of the hardest things about a flooded basement is that it will mean months of checking on the woodwork to see that it has dried out properly, and that there is nothing that has started to eat away at the wood while it was damp.

Another aspect that will need to be considered for those who are dealing with the aftermath of a flooded basement is to document the damage that has been caused by the flood, and to pass all the relevant information on to the insurance company so that they can start to look at dealing with the insurance claim. The quicker the insurance company gets all the relevant information, the quickly the problem can be dealt with and any damage be repaired, and the misery caused by the flooded basement can be forgotten and people can get on with their lives.

The consequences of a flooded basement will also require an awful lot of cleaning, as floodwater will usually carry a lot of bacteria and diseases. And especially if it has a sewage element as a part of the flood water, then cleaning and disinfecting thoroughly will be vital. It will not only be the walls and the floor either, as everything that will have been contacted by the water will need to be cleaned in the aftermath of the flooded basement, and eliminating any waterborne bacteria will be vital to making the basement safe to be used again.

Dealing with a flooded basement will often have to be done during a stressful time, which can already be a hard time in which to get things done, with so many different areas needing to be considered when resolving the problem. By doing your best to be calm and being proactive in ensuring the work is done as quickly as possible, the repair of the flooded basement can be completed in a fairly quick and efficient way.

Coming home To Roost - Post Storm Mold...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 12:21:00 +0000

The lead in for several blog entries now has been the same, that 2011 has been an incredibly busy year when it comes to severe weather. Homes and businesses have been damaged at best, and swept away at worst. For those affected, coming home after the storm can be a very rude awakening.

The level of damage left behind can be staggering, overwhelming, and often traumatizing for property owners. The aftereffects of water can many times be far more destructive than even fire, and the bad news is, water isn’t done even when the initial damage has been inflicted.

Untreated water can contribute to the premature rotting of wood or rusting of metal, both of which can compromise the structural stability of your home. Worse, mold can appear, usually within 48 hours of a water damage event (or sooner of the water is sewage based).

The high water and humidity levels left behind by recent storms may mean that homeowners are in for a rather unpleasant homecoming.

Mold usually grows anywhere there is sufficient moisture for it to do so. In homes this usually means behind baseboards, inside of walls, or the interior of drywall construction.

Dr. John Cohn, an allergist at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, says mold can trigger allergies, or in rare cases, other illnesses, but common sense measures can prevent problems.

“I don’t think you need to go to extraordinary lengths to treat mold as a particularly dangerous, toxic compound.”

Basically, mold can be prevented by simply removing the excess water as soon as possible and drying everything out quickly. The faster humidity levels in your home can be reduced, the less likely the chances for a mold problem to develop.

Too many people mistakenly believe that it is enough to simply remove the excess water. Quite the contrary, some water has to be actively looked for. Water has a way of getting into areas of your home that you might not think to look in, usually your basement or crawlspaces, which can become ideal spots for mold to begin to grow.

No, ALL the water has to be removed, every surface completely dried out, cleaned, disinfected, and sanitized in order to prevent mold growth. In the event that mold is discovered, it is not enough to simply remove it.

The affected area will have to be properly treated in order to prevent the mold from returning. Proper treatment includes reducing the level of humidity and moisture in the affected area, providing proper ventilation….basically creating an environment that is non-conducive to mold growth.

Water Damage Local.com is a nationwide network of water restoration providers, available 24/7, with a full staff of trained and experienced professionals, as well as the tool and procedures you need for getting water, mud, silt, debris, and yes, even mold out of your home following a water damage catastrophe. One of our professionals can be at your door within an hour of your call, ready to assess your problem and being the restoration process.

Don’t let water damage open the door to additional problems for your home or place of business. Contact the pros at Water Damage Local.com today!

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:44:00 +0000

As many of you may already know, mold damage is specifically excluded from all home insurance companies. According to Vicki Lankarge in her book “What Every Home Owner Needs to Know About Mold & What to Do About It,” she lists 4 damages resulting in exclusion from home insurance policies:

Normal wear and tear
Poor maintenance (you should have replaced the shower grout, but didn’t)
Standing or surface water (unles it’s floodwater and you purchased separate flood insurance)
Construction mistakes or defects (nails accidentally driven into water pipes or faulty home design)

Note : It is important to understand and be knowledgeable about what your insurance policy covers and what it does not.

Mold & Water Damage Claims

Again, Vicki Lankarge in her words of the same book, lists 14 steps to followafter your water damage claim has been identified :

Stop the water leak or flow of water.
Notify your insurer immediately. If you let any damage fester and don’t report it immediately, our claim may be denied. Remember, sudden leaks are covered, but chronic leaks are not.
Ask what is required of you. Your duties, as outlined in most home insurance policies, may include:

1. Giving prompt written notice to your insurer of the facts surrounding your claim.

2. Protect your property from further damage.

3. Performing reasonable and necessary repairs to protect your property.

4. Keeping an accurate record of your repair expenses.

Make a list of your damaged property and photograph or videotape the damage before making repairs.
Don’t make large structural or permanent repairs to protect your home and belongings until your insurer has the opportunity to inspect the damage and gives you authorization to make permanent repairs.
The insurance company may deny your claim if you amke permanent repairs before it inspects the damage.
Remove standing water and begin drying the area.
Remove water-soaked materials.
Keep removed materials and move them to a secure, dry, and well-ventilated area, or outdoors.
Protect repairable and undamaged items from further damage.
Keep an activity log, including a record of all contact with your insurance company. This is extremely important.
A log not only helps you stay focused and organized, it may play a key part in negotiations with your insurer should you encounter problems with your claim later on.
Keep all receipts. For personal property claims, you must proved evidence that you bought the replacement items. If you bought materials for temporary repairs, receipts will help you get reimbursed.
Don’t throw away removed or damaged materials until instructed by your insurance company.
Don’t jeopardize your safety.
Don’t exceed your personal financial or physical capabilites.

Original Article

Water Damage Local.com is available 24/7 for all your mold removal and other water damage restoration needs.

Flood Damage Round 2 - After The Storm...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:20:00 +0000

In the wake of Irene and Lee, people are slowly beginning to return to their homes and businesses, and for the first time are able to really take in the level of damage these storms left behind. As the clean up process begins, however, officials are warning folks about the dangers involved with treating flood damage to their property.

Officials are quick to warn people about the dangers of eating food that may have been exposed to contaminated flood waters. It is always best to simply assume that any food left behind in your home is now contaminated. In addition, well water should not be considered safe. Many counties are distributing MRE’s (Meals Ready to Eat) along with bottled water.

A large number of people are still without power in many areas affected by Irene and Lee. That said, it is always advisable to go ahead and shut off power supplies at their source. The power will come back on at some point, and you want to be able to control when it does. If you are standing in ankle deep water when the electricity comes surging back on, the results could be potentially fatal.

In the same vein, flooding can also damage gas lines, so shut off your gas until the system can be professionally inspected. Remember, it only takes a spark to trigger a rather severe result.

Unfortunately, many homes were so damaged by the storms that they will have to be condemned and torn down.

It is also important to note that floods leave behind a considerable amount of debris to be cleaned up, and people should not work through these debris piles unprotected. Materials left behind by floods could contain toxic substances, harmful bacteria, and viruses. It is strongly advised to wear protective clothing, long pants, sleeves, heavy duty gloves, waterproof boots, and eyewear when working around debris piles left behind by flood waters. Always take a shower and clean any clothes that have come into contact with flood waters.

If you have cuts or scratches, keep them bandaged or covered. Open skin wounds are the fastest way for harmful bacteria to enter your system.

Move as much flood related trash to curbside so that it can be picked up and properly disposed of. Collection points may also be announced in various communities.

Even re-entering a flood damaged home can be a hazard. Remember that a flood can literally shift a home on its foundation, making it prone to collapse. You will want to make sure the building is structurally sound, that there isn’t a risk of the ceiling dropping on you, or the floor falling out from under you.

And of course make sure that you don’t have any unwanted guests…..wildlife, particularly snakes, tend to show up in flood damaged homes.

If you don’t already have it, secure the contact information for a local, IICRC certified, water restoration provider. Water Damage Local.com providers are available 24/7, with a full staff, the latest in equipment and procedures, and a full range of services from basic water extraction to serious restoration. We can get started today and have you back in your home in no time at all.

The Aftermath Of Flooding And Water Removal

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:43:00 +0000

For those people who experience flooding in their home, it can be not only a disastrous incident which will take months, if not years, from which to recover, but also a project of work to repair and restore the property to the state it was in before the water removal became necessary. However, in areas where the water hasn’t subsided and simply remains penned in a basement and is only slowly seeping away, then getting some help with the water removal itself will be a good place to start so that the recovery process can begin.

The first thing to decide when you find that not only has there been a flood, but the water hasn’t seeped away, is to look at the options available for water removal. This will usually become necessary when a basement that is generally waterproof becomes flooded, and then there is nowhere that the water can drain to. There is of course the manual, old-fashioned way of water removal, involving a fair bit of physical labor and plenty of buckets, but most people will look to find a pump to actually remove the water and to get the property free of water so that work to repair the damage can proceed as soon as possible.

In terms of the bodies and companies that provide water removal services, in many countries, the fire service will often have equipment designed for pumping water which can really help in actually clearing out any water that is left over from flooding. But especially when an area has had extensive damage caused by flooding, the fire service will often be hard pressed to everybody who needs such water removal. Therefore, many people will turn to the private companies that provide water removal services, and these will often levy a charge for the rent of the pump and the time needed in the actual removal of the water itself.

Unfortunately, water removal will often be a dirty job, and it is this reason why many people find the need to hire a professional, because in many flood areas, the water will often be contaminated with sewage, waste water, and a wide range of bacteria and diseases picked up from all sorts of different places in the drains. For those who decide that they actually want to get right into it and carry out the water removal themselves, it is vital to make sure that the work is done safely, and that a thorough wash and disinfecting is carried out immediately after the task, to make sure that no waterborne diseases are spread.

On the whole, coping with a flood and carrying out the subsequent water removal will be something that most people will be able to deal with, and with the assistance of an insurance company it will often be as stress free as such a situation with such damage can be. By working with the professionals, it will usually lead to the right result and the water removal being completed in a timely fashion.

A Break In The Hurricane Action....

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:00:00 +0000

After the one two knockout punches of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, which pulverized much of the Eastern and southern Gulf coasts, it would appear that Mother Nature is giving the United States mainland a momentary reprieve.

Communities are still crawling out from under the damage left over by Irene and Lee, with billions of dollars in water restoration costs staring property owners in the face. No sooner had the cleanup process begun than reports began to circulate about a new tropical depression in the Atlantic basin. Named Katia, this storm would eventually blow into a Category 4 hurricane, with initial models taking it along the same course Irene had followed two weeks before. Fortunately, however, Katia curved back out to sea, weakening as she went, and posing no danger to the East Coast.

The last week also saw the formation of Tropical Storm Nate in the Gulf Of Mexico. Nate posed a momentary threat to the southern coast of Mexico, but dissipated rapidly without presenting any serious danger to the southern US coastline.

Now we have Hurricane Maria moving past the Caribbean and Bahamas, possibly strengthening into a category 2 storm over the next few days. Maria is not expected to impact the US coastline, but may adversely affect the Bahamas and possibly southern Canada if she continues along her current projected path.

The US coast may experience effects of Maria in the form of stronger surf and rip currents.

Maria comes along as we move into the peak of hurricane season, which will end November 30. Already the season has been a busy one, with forecasters actually modifying their predictions of just how many named storms will be seen this year.

Florida, which has routinely found itself in the crosshairs of storms forming in the Atlantic basin, has been spared Mother Nature’s wrath so far this year, but that could change over the coming three months. The last major hurricane to strike Florida was Hurricane Wilma in 2005.

Unfortunately, inactivity can breed complacency, and it is only natural that folks might have the tendency to get lazy, not making adequate preparations for the arrival of a strong storm.

For now and the remainder of hurricane season 2011, resident in Hurricane Alley (and pretty much anywhere along the coast) should be diligent in watching the news for reports of newly formed tropical depressions or storms. Technology has provided for excellent computer models to be drawn up with regard to a given storm’s projected path (the models generated for Irene proved to be right on the money), which makes it possible for home and business owners to make adequate preparations, secure their property, and get out of harm’s way in plenty of time.

In the event of serious storm or hurricane damage, Water Damage Local.com is your one stop shop for water restoration and repair services. Our network of providers is available 24/7 and able to handle even the largest water damage repair needs, from water removal and drying, carpet cleaning, mold remediation, etc…..let Water Damage Local.com serve the needs of you and your family following the next great disaster.

Steps To Take In Repairing Basement Flooding...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 16:17:00 +0000

As the room at the bottom of the house, the basement and its contents will often be the most susceptible to flooding. So if this does happen, taking the right steps to cleaning and repairing the consequences of basement flooding can be a very important step to getting back full use of the property. Because the floodwater does tend to get everywhere, making sure that all of the water is removed, and that the whole basement is thoroughly cleaned will be very important to make sure that basement flooding doesn’t have permanent consequences to the property.

Probably the first thing that must be done when trying to deal with basement flooding is to make sure that everything is dried out, and that all the flood water is either carried, drained or pumped out from the basement. After that, then starting to repair the damage caused by the basement flooding can be carried out. There are specific problems which can arise when trying to dry out after the basement flooding, and this can be especially problematic when wooden supports for the main property have been immersed, because it can take many months for those to actually dry out.

Another area where it can be particularly difficult to actually deal with after basement flooding is in cleaning the basement. Because flood water will also often have a dirty or even a sewage element, it is vital to make sure that the basement is thoroughly clean to make sure that it is safe to use, and that any diseases that may have been carried by the flood water are eliminated. For this, disinfecting all of the surfaces which were contacted during the basement flooding will be important. And although it may not be pleasant, it will also help to reduce the chance of a long term problem with smell from the flooding.

Once the basement flooding has been cleaned and repaired, many people will view this as a trigger to start looking at how they can deal with the threat of flooding in the future and how they can reduce the chances of the basement being flooded again. Looking at plans such as adding a drain that will help get any future floodwater out of the basement, isolating the electronic system, and raising any sockets that are close to the floor can all be a part of the plan to help flood proof the basement, so that the results will be less pronounced if more basement flooding would occur.

Being practical when trying to deal with basement flooding is certainly the best approach to the problem, and getting specialist help will often be a very good idea for those who haven’t dealt with the situation before, as there are many things that will need to be considered. Taking steps to help prevent basement flooding from occurring, or if it is difficult to prevent, then trying to flood proof the basement will also help to make the recovery from the situation in the future much easier.

Severe Weather 102 - Post Flood...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:32:00 +0000

In our last installment we looked at what you should do to prepare yourself and your home for a flood emergency. Now we are going to assume the worst is over, the storm has passed, and the flood waters have receded. In the words of the fish in the baggies floating in the ocean at the end of FINDING NEMO, “Now what?”

Remember, just because the storm is over does not mean that the danger has passed. Extreme care needs to be taken when returning to your home or business, as carelessness can serve to make a bad situation worse.

For starters, don’t be in a hurry. Do not return to your home until the all clear has been given by local emergency management or whoever the authorities in your situation happen to be.

Don’t forget to be a good neighbor. Keep a look out for those who may require special assistance.

Avoid areas where flood waters may still be standing, keep an eye out for any downed power lines, and report them to the proper authorities.

When you get back to your property, resist the urge to go in right away. Look around the exterior for damage and to make sure the building is structurally sound. Remember that flood waters can literally shift a building on its foundation, making it prone to collapse. You do not want to risk the whole thing coming down on top of you.

If the utilities were not turned off before you left, do so at this time. Remember that water and electricity do not mix, and it only takes a spark to ignite a leaky gas line with unfortunate consequences.

Throw away any food that has come in contact with flood waters. Just automatically consider any such food items as contaminated.

If your basement is flooded, pump the water out slowly, at the rate of about a third a day. Any faster and you run the risk of serious structural damage to your property.

Take care of damaged septic tanks or sewage systems as soon as possible, as these can pose a serious health hazard if left unattended.

Try to avoid coming into contact with flood waters, since you never know what kind of contaminates it may contain. Again, always assume the water is contaminated and shower/wash clothes if you do happen to get wet.

You may find yourself in need of assistance with shelter or food, so stay tuned to your local radio or TV station for details on where to go for aid.

Properly document the damage to your home through the use of photo or video recording. This will prove invaluable when having to deal with your homeowners insurance.

Of course, the cleanup process following a flood is going to be quite a bit beyond your ability to handle. Water Damage Local.com is available 24/7 and can take care of even the most severe flood damage problems. Our network of IICRC certified professionals can take care of everything from water removal and drying, to carpet cleaning and mold removal, and even structural repair and restoration.

Call our professionals today and have your home and your life back as soon as possible.

Coping With Flood Damage And Water Restoration

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:09:00 +0000

Getting over the damage and destruction that has caused by flooding is something that will be on the minds of many people after the worst happens, but especially in situations where there isn’t insurance cover, or the cover isn’t paying out on all the work, finding out more about water restoration will be vital to getting the home fully repaired and brought back in a safe condition. The problem with flood water is that it will get into every corner of the ground floor and basement of a property, so the important thing about water restoration is that it is vital to deal with all of the areas where flood water damage has had an impact.

One of the first things that will need to be done in terms of the damage caused and the water restoration is to find out if there has been any damage caused to the electrical sockets and the wiring of the house. More often than not, this will be the case, and the property may need to be completely rewired in extreme cases. Any wires that have come into contact with the flood water will need to be torn out and completely replaced. And if the flooding was surprising or you weren’t there to switch off the electricity before the flood water struck, then the water restoration will mean it could need to be entirely rewired so that it will work correctly.

Another aspect that will have to be considered when overcoming the flood and promoting the water restoration of the property will be in terms of dealing with the structural issues that can arise because of flooding, which can be especially problematic where the property has a frame that is largely made of wood. However, drying out the property will be a big part of the water restoration process, and especially where any large beams have been immersed in flood water, then this can take a significant amount of time. Usually, using a dampness measuring device will be required for many months as the wood dries.

It will also be important when trying to start the water restoration of the property to actually treat the issues that can arise before doing anything like repainting and replastering. Because if there will still be surfaces that are damp and have elements of floodwater included, then this can actually ruin any remedial work which is carried out before the drying process has been completed. This is why water restoration has to be done correctly, or otherwise, the work will be in vain, as the water absorbed by the surfaces within the home can ruin any work carried out.

For most people, the water restoration process is one which should be organized and carried out by the insurance company. But if there is no insurance company in place, at least getting some professional advice will help those people to avoid falling in to the pitfalls that can often affect those people trying to manage their own water restoration.

Severe Weather 101 – Flood Prep

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 13:05:00 +0000

With all of the severe weather the country has been experiencing this year, it probably isn’t a bad idea to take a moment and consider the appropriate steps to take in advance of less than desirable conditions, steps that can go a long way towards protecting your property and your family. In this entry we will look at flood preparation.

Firstly, you should be aware of the various terms used to describe flooding conditions:

Flood Watch – this means that a flood is possible, that conditions are right for flooding to occur. You should stay tuned to your local radio or TV station for additional updates.

- Flash Flood Watch – Flash flooding is possible. Because flash floods form so rapidly, it is advisable to go ahead and move to higher ground.

- Flood Warning – flooding is either occurring or will occur soon. Promptly heed any evacuation orders.

- Flash Flood Warning - a flash flood is occurring and you should seek higher ground immediately.

- Urban & Small Stream Advisory – flooding of small streams, streets, and low lying areas is occurring.

You should be aware of any types of storm or flood warnings that are used by your community. These may vary from region to region, so keep yourself up to date.

Be prepared to shut off all utilities at their source. This means electricity and gas, so familiarize yourself with where the various shutoff valves are.

Have backflow valves installed on all sewer traps to prevent water from backing up through drains. You can also use corks or stoppers to prevent backflow.

Look into purchasing flood insurance. Find out if your community participates in the Nation Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and get signed up. Of course it will cost an additional premium, but it will more than pay for itself if you get totaled by a flood.

In a related vein, properly record and document all of your possessions for reference with insurance adjusters later on.

If you are ordered to evacuate, do so promptly. Far too many people wait until late in the game to get out of Dodge, and the bulk of flooding related deaths are credited to folks who become trapped in their cars while trying to cross flooded roadways. You should be familiar with the evacuation routes serving your area.

Have a “go bag” prepared for each family member, well stocked with enough provisions to sustain a stay of several days in a shelter or motel. Each bag should be packed with clothes, food items, bottled water, cash, first aid, and any important documents or ID.

Monitor radio and television broadcasts to stay on top of rapidly changing weather conditions. You’d be surprised at just how fast the game can change when it comes to severe weather.

Tomorrow we will look at what you can do after the flood. In the meantime, call Water Damage Local.com for prompt, courteous, and efficient service for any and all water or flood damage problems. Our network of providers are available 24/7, with trained staff and the latest in equipment and procedures. All providers are IICRC certified and can have a technician to your home or business within an hour of your call.

How Preventive Measures Can Reduce Damage From Basement Flooding

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 14:05:00 +0000

Living in an area which is liable to flooding can be something that preys on the minds of those homeowners, but one of the important things that can help to reduce this worry is to take the preventive measures that can reduce the chances of basement flooding and can help make the cleaning process after any flooding much easier and quicker. Some of these things can be done with no initial expense, while others may require some investment, but whatever the state of the household budget, it will be possible to take steps that will reduce the chances of basement flooding and also help reduce any damage that can occur.

One of the first things to consider for those looking to reduce the chance of basement flooding becoming a reality is to consider the situation that lies around the property, and to see if there are any options available that will help them to prevent any flood water from actually entering the property. It will also be important to know the routes of any water courses near your property, and where the drains are. It can also be wise to look for any particularly narrow or easily clogged parts of these that could be widened to help water to drain away more quickly, which will reduce the chance of any basement flooding.

As well as planning in the area of the house, it can also be wise to look at the immediate vicinity around the property, and to see where any flood water would be likely to come from, and whether any amendments can be made to the area around the house or the garden to help the drainage, and prevent any basement flooding. Because there can be many ways in which flood water can enter the basement, looking to divert any flood water away if possible is certainly the best course of action if it can be done economically.

However, in many situations, it won’t be possible to make changes that will prevent the basement flooding from happening. In such situations, the best course of action is to plan for the drainage of the basement, and to look at how the basement can be changed to help the recovery process. This can include carrying out work such as raising the level of the electric sockets or waterproofing any electronics in the basement, and can also include plans for water to actually drain from the basement, or to be pumped out if this isn’t possible.

Dealing with basement flooding certainly isn’t a pleasant thing to confront, but certainly in areas that are prone to flooding, it can be something that has to be accepted as a possibility. In many cases, a simple act like checking the water courses and drains are clear of obstruction before a period where heavy rainfall is expected can make all the difference, and help prevent the need for the steps to be taken to deal with the aftermath of basement flooding.

Flood Insurance Program Still Foundering....

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 13:26:00 +0000

As with most government run programs that eventually run out of budgetary steam, the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has been on life support for quite some time, and the funding for it is due to expire on September 30. This comes as especially bad news in the wake of Hurricane Irene, which blew up the Eastern Seaboard causing billions of dollars in damage from North Carolina to Vermont.

Most lawmakers agree that the time for a long term solution has come and gone, with nothing more than a short term fix being a distinct possibility.

Of course the single biggest obstacle is the fact that flood damage is not covered by normal homeowners’ policies. The only way to obtain flood insurance was through the government funded NFIP. In a year of

record breaking rainfall and flooding, that becomes a game changer.

The NFIP has actually been living on borrowed time since 2088, when Congress implemented a series of short term fixes designed to increase the program’s life span. The reason was politics as usual….Congress simply could not agree on the best course of action to take in order to revamp the program and make it solvent again. The NFIP went almost $18 billion in the hole following 2005’s hurricane Katrina.

As of July, several changes had been approved by Congress, not the least of which was the allowance of a 20 percent annual increase in premiums. Most lobbyists remain divided over how much of a rate increase there should be and what sort of intervals they should occur.

The Senate authorized a 15 percent rate increase, as well as forgiveness on all of the program’s current debts. This would of course, be in keeping with our current administration’s policies of bailing everybody out who needs it.

The current plan is to continue funding of the NFIP through 2016, with some form of gradual rate increases in place to cover some of the additional costs. Subsidies will be phased out, flood maps will be updated and improved, and the public will be allowed to participate in the mapping process.

The legislation will also promote private insurer and reinsurer participation in the program. Two new additions to the coverage will include limits to policies based on inflation and higher deductibles for properties that receive financial assistance with rates.

Property owners in communities newly designated as a flood area will see the largest increase in the first year of coverage. They will be brought up to cost based pricing over the initial five year period. The first year they will see increases that bring their rates up to half of the actual risk indicator cost.

The following four years their increases will rise around 20 percent each year, until they are at their actual risk cost. Minimum deductibles will be set at one thousand dollars for properties that will be paying cost based rates, and two thousand for properties receiving financial assistance with rates.

Water Damage Local.com is available 24/7 to handle all of your water and flood damage needs.

Important Tips When Dealing With A Flooded Basement

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 13:49:00 +0000

Being confronted with a flooded basement when you arrive home, or feeling powerless to stop the flood waters from submerging the basement is something that many people will find massively frustrating. And getting on with the drainage and cleaning process will be at the forefront of their minds as they look to get back to normality. However, flood water cannot be treated in the same way as clean water, and there are a number of things that will be very important in dealing with the aftermath of a flooded basement, which can make a big difference in actually successfully getting things back to how they were.

One of the biggest things that must be remembered when dealing with a flooded basement is to be very cautious in coming into contact with the water, as it will often have elements of sewage in it, and will usually be very dirty water that can carry bacteria and many other horrible germs that can cause different diseases. Of course, people will want to get on with the drainage of that flooded basement so that they can get on with actually cleaning up, but even getting a small amount of the water into the body can be very dangerous, and it is vital to wash thoroughly after coming into contact with flood water.

Another important tip for people dealing with a flooded basement if they are hoping to salvage something from the basement is to get it dried as quickly as possible. Although fabrics and carpets can recover from flood damage, it is vital to clean and shampoo them quickly, and then to dry them, which can hopefully mean they are still usable. However, the problem with a flooded basement is that items will usually have been submerged for some time in the flood water, and even if it is dried out, the water will have permeated everything, and it may retain an odor regardless of how many times it is cleaned.

When it comes to the aftermath of a flooded basement, the most important thing of all is to make sure that everything is fully dried out before starting on any repairs. And especially in the case of wood and plaster, the fact that it can be dry to the touch will not necessarily mean that it is dry the whole way through. This is very important, as carrying out repairs too early can actually mean that when more of the water retained in the surface will seep out and ruin the work carried out in repairs and getting things back to working order.

Dealing with a flooded basement isn’t pleasant for anyone, but for those who have no knowledge of what is required and aren’t getting any support from an insurance company, speaking with a professional who will know all of the effects that can be seen from a flooded basement is very important. It isn’t difficult to get the right advice, but without it, what may have seemed like a simple flooded basement can quickly become something a lot more serious.

Lee Soaks The Southeast...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:45:00 +0000

Tropical Storm Lee slammed New Orleans with more than a foot of rain and spawned tornadoes as far inland as Atlanta over the Labor Day weekend, maintaining a snail’s pace that threatened to cause severe flooding across much of the southeastern United States.

Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi coastal areas reporting wind and flood damage, but the good news was that the New Orleans levees appeared to hold, something they failed to do six years ago when Katrina slammed the Gulf Coast.

By Monday, more than 14 inches of rain had fallen in the Big Easy, but pumps and drainage systems did their job well, refusing to allow the elements to get a foot hold and cause any serious damage. Forecasters agreed that the chance for severe flooding would become more serious as the remnants of Lee moved slowly inland.

It was Lee’s snail pace that made cause for concern. The longer the storm lingered over a given area, the more rain could be dumped, with undesirable consequences. Forecasters predicted results similar to what was seen in Vermont following the arrival of Hurricane Irene more than a week ago.

As of Monday night, three deaths had been attributed to Lee, including a body boarder off the Texas coast who died when he was pulled out to sea in a heavy surf that had been churned up by the storm.

As many as 200,000 lost power across Alabama as the storm moved through, with most of the outages in the

Birmingham area, Alabama Power spokeswoman Keisa Sharpe said. By early Tuesday, the number of outages was down to 187,000, she said. Power outages were also reported in Georgia, Tennessee and North Carolina.

Chainsaws and tarps were brought out in Georgia to repair the damage caused be severe rains and tornadoes that occurred over the holiday weekend. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency said about 100 homes were damaged there in Cherokee County, about 30 miles north of Atlanta.

In Alabama, the State Fair in Huntsville was a washout, with workers disassembling rides as early as 4PM instead of the usual 8PM closing time.

Rain is expected to be a factor across the southeast through the weekend, as Lee finishes blowing itself out. Residents should still be on the lookout for flood waters and other damage related to the storm.

Water Damage Local.com is a national network of IICRC certified water restoration providers, available 24/7, with the personnel and equipment designed to handle even the largest water and flood damage problems. One phone call has a technician out to your home in less than an hour, ready to assess the situation and begin the restoration process.

Better still, they can work alongside your homeowners’ insurance provider to make sure the process runs smoothly and efficiently.

Water damage doesn’t have to mean the end of your home…..contact the pros at Water Damage Local.com today.

Beware The Flood Damaged Car...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 13:37:00 +0000

Shopping for a car is already a daunting process. As if sifting through various makes and models isn't enough, you also have to deal with misleading "bait and switch" ads and annoying high pressure salespeople. Overall, it is not an event many of us look forward to with eager anticipation.

Now you can add another element to the “gotcha” list, namely water damage. With record storms and flooding across much of the country this year, flood damaged cars are set to begin showing up on dealer lots over the coming months.

Water can damage a car’s electrical system, and wreak havoc on the interior as well as causing rust and other problems with the exterior finish. Repairs can run into the thousands, and in some cases, may mean the car is a total loss.

Many of these cars will be repaired and find their way onto dealer lots, and worse, the dealers will often fail to disclose that the car was damaged by water. This is where it becomes a case of “buyer beware”.

It’s always a good idea to closely scrutinize any vehicle you are looking to purchase. Aside from obvious problems like previous body damage (which can be identified by different shades of paint on various areas of the car, or body panels that do not fit properly), you should also look for the telltale signs of water damage.

Always ask for a CarFax on any vehicle you are considering. CarFax will in most every case off a comprehensive history of the vehicle, including and repairs and bodywork that have been performed.

If a used car’s engine appears too clean, it may be that it was cleaned to hide damage or leaks.

If a car is being sold for far less than its Kelly Blue Book value, that is another good indicator that there is a hidden problem.

Check the transmission fluids. If the fluid appears milky, beige, or diluted, there is probably water in the pans.

Look for water stains on the seats. If they are discolored or stained, you have your answer when it comes to water damage.

Look under the hood and in the trunk for areas of rust, a telltale sign that water has gotten in. Also be aware of any musty smells or mildew odors. Also, if the smell of deodorizers is strong, that could be a sign that some kind of problem has been covered up.

In all cases, take the car to a mechanic you trust to make sure it’s in good running order. In the same vein, you can also take it to a body shop who can point out if there is any previous body damage or water damage problems.

Water Damage Local.com doesn’t do cars, but we are available 24/7 to take care of all water damage problems affecting your home or business. Our nationwide network of water restoration providers offer a full range of services, from water removal and drying, to carpet cleaning and mold removal….all designed to return your property to its pre-loss condition.

A match made In Heck - Katia And Lee...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:06:00 +0000

No sooner had Hurricane Irene blown herself out over Canada, that all eyes were turned towards the Atlantic Basin just off the coast of Africa, or the northern Gulf Of Mexico, depending on where your particular interests happened to lie.

Hurricane Katia formed off the African coast right about the time that Irene was breathing her last, and tropical storm Lee has begun to take form in the Gulf. Both storms could potentially threaten the US mainland over the next week or so.

It’s the peak of Hurricane Season 2011, and so far the year has not disappointed. Katia is poised to become the second major hurricane of the season, moving on a west-northwest track over the next 5 days. Most computer models predict that she will simply curve back out to sea before striking the US, but forecasters admit they will need another 48 hours or so to be more certain.

Katia become the second hurricane of the season on Wednesday night. Maximum sustained winds were 75 mph as of the writing of this article, with strengthening likely. Katia is moving at the base of a subtropical ridge to the north, and the initial motion to the WNW is expected to continue at least through 3 to 5 days.

Behind Katia, several more waves are beginning to form, which could become Maria and Nate respectively. Of course it is far too early with either situation to predict their course, although weather patterns indicate that they may take a slightly more southern path.

Another tropical depression has formed in the Gulf of Mexico, predicted to become Tropical Storm Lee, and could dump heavy rainfall on the Gulf Coast states by the weekend. This problem becomes aggravated by the fact that Labor Day weekend is typically a big draw for the beaches along the Gulf.

Most computer models do not indicate a direct strike on the mainland by Lee, but rather a sideswipe, re-emerging into the Gulf, strengthening, and then making a second landfall. These same simulations also have Lee eventually pulling up through the Appalachians, which could bring serious flooding issues for the southeast.

At this time of year, things are extremely volatile when it comes to weather. People should be aware of what is happening around them and take note of rapidly changing weather conditions. If a storm ends up heading in your direction, be prepared to leave immediately. Secure your home, shutter or board up doors and windows, and have evacuation bags packed with enough clothing, food, and other provisions to support an extended stay away from home.

Water Damage Local.com is a nationwide network of IICRC certified professionals, available 24/7, and able to handle even the most severe flood damage and water restoration cases. Call today for a free estimate or phone consultation.

What To Look For When Browsing Coffee Machines...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:43:00 +0000

Looking at the range of coffee machines that are available in stores can often be quite confusing, as there are so many different features and things that the machines can do in terms of making coffee, and there are as many different types of machines as there are varieties of coffee available. However, there are certain features that will usually add to the coffee drinking experience, and here, we will look at a few of these features that can help people to choose the best of the coffee machines that will match what the individuals are actually looking for from their coffee.

One of the most popular features for many people, especially for those who love a nice milky cappuccino, is the milk frother, which helps to provide the light creamy froth that is a big part of the style of such coffee. There are plenty of coffee machines on the market today that offer this kind of feature, in various guises and styles. This gives those who enjoy different types of coffee a little flexibility in the drink that they make, and although it can prove to be quite difficult to clean, it is definitely one of the most useful and most used features that can be found in coffee machines.

Having a heating ring on the coffee machines that helps to keep the coffee hot until it is needed is certainly another good thing to have, as it means that a batch of coffee can be made and drunk when the person is ready, rather than having to make the coffee from fresh every time that they want a cup. Most coffee machines can keep a jug of coffee hot for a few hours, and although generally the fresher the coffee the better the taste, for the purposes of practicality, having a heating ring on the machine is a very useful feature to have.

As well as the various options for coffee machines that make regular coffee, there are also plenty of modern machines that can make espresso’s, latte’s, and various other traditional coffee drinks. And depending on how selective and interested in coffee the person is, then there are a lot of machines ranging into the hundreds or even thousands which can be bought to meet the coffee demands of even the most discerning and sensitive coffee palette. Although this will be for the select few, the majority of people can buy coffee machines which can really do everything they will expect from a coffee maker.

These are only a few of the popular features that are often built in to the modern coffee machines, which can help to add value to the products by making them much more flexible, and able to make a wider range of coffee drinks. Practicality is also a big feature in these coffee machines, and by browsing the range to find the most suitable, people will soon be waking up to the delightful smell of freshly brewed coffee in the morning.

Water restoration

What To Expect From Flood Damage...

noreply@blogger.com (D Ritchie) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:55:00 +0000

The impact of flood damage on a property will usually be significant, as there are actually a wide range of different things that will be damaged when it comes to flooding. Therefore, it is important to look at these and see what can be done to deal with the damage that has arisen. By dealing with all of the flood damage in a systematic way, it will be possible to help deal with and repair the damage, and to get the property back to a very livable state once again.

One of the first aspects of flood damage that will have to be considered when trying to arrange for the necessary repairs of a property is if there’s any damage to the electricity system. The electrics within a property are particularly sensitive to things such as flooding, since the wiring can be ruined by the flood water when it comes into contact with it. And especially if the electricity supply has not been disconnected prior to the flooding, then it can become necessary to rewire the entire property if flood damage has been significant enough.

Another important thing that must be taken into account when trying to cope and respond to flood damage is to look at the walls both inside and out and to identify what sort of damage may have occurred. Indoors, it will often be damage to the plastering that will be one of the biggest problems to deal with, which will usually require the walls to be replastered once they have completely dried out, but doing this too early can lead to the job having to be redone further down the line. Making sure that the external walls remain strong and have not been undermined will also be an important step when trying to cope with flood damage.

When it comes to dealing with the aftermath of flooding, the items that will have taken the most damage will be the soft furnishing and the movable items of furniture which will have absorbed a lot of the flood water. These items will often be completely ruined by the flood damage. Items such as chairs and couches, carpets, and tables will usually need to be replaced by new items, because the flood damage will usually be so significant that it will have led to these individual items being completely unusable.

The recovery from flood damage for a property and all of the items that most families will actually keep in their home can be quite significant and coping with all of the stress and unhappiness that will often be more related to the irreplaceable sentimental items to be damaged rather than furniture damage can be a long term process. By focusing on the irreplaceable items when preparing for a flood, and to let the insurance company carry out the relevant steps when dealing with the flood damage, this will lead to the smoothest recovery from the flooding.