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2015 Restoration Articles

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2015 RESTORATION ARTICLES
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Art- MZ article – Restoration- December 2015

Create Your ‘Go Bag’
 
Floods, fires, high wind and other damaging events caused by inclement weather can happen anywhere, anytime and to anyone.
 
Thinking and planning ahead can give you peace of mind.
 
One great way to plan ahead is to create an emergency preparedness kit, or as some call it, a go bag, which is a backpack, small suitcase or other type of container packed with essential items you might need in the event of an emergency, especially if you are evacuated from your home.
 
While it is true odds are in your favor that you may never have to evacuate your home or relocate on a temporary basis, when it does happen, your basic needs will be cared for if you have a go bag ready to… go.
 
When you build your own go bag, remember that one size does not fit all. In other words, there is no perfect list for you or your family, just suggestions. You must base your own go bag contents on what you need.
 
What should your go bag include? Several essential items, such as:
 

• Bottles of water
• Non-perishable foods
• Flashlight with spare batteries
• First-aid kit
• Necessary medications
• Personal hygiene items
• Warm clothing
• Emergency cash
• Copies of important papers
• Any essential pet care items, such as food and leashes

 
Don’t forget other items that may not be considered if you are in a rush, such as cell phone chargers for your mobile phones, extra keys to your home
 
When you compile your food items, think protein… such as in protein bars, nuts, beef jerky, just to list a few. When you visit your local grocery store you will be surprised how many options you have available to you.
 
Some people even include battery-operated radios, whistles, pocket knives and multi-tools, butane lighters, dust masks, maps, notebook and pen or pencil, extra eyeglasses and more.
 
When disaster strikes, don’t forget you have some expert help and advice from your disaster restoration pros. They will be there to help you restore or rebuild what you have lost. Give them a call.
 

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- November 2015

The Dangers of Soot
 
It doesn’t seem that dangerous. It’s just the byproduct of a fire… maybe from a chimney, a furnace puff-back, even an over-zealous gas grill. When the fire is out, you should be able to clean up the soot residue easily, right?
 
Not so fast! Soot has some characteristics that everyone should consider before attempting to clean. Those who perform fire damage work understand the dangers of soot. So do emergency personnel like firemen. In fact, outdoor soot is regulated by the EPA, classified as a criteria pollutant.
 
Consider these facts about soot.
 
Soot is made up of very fine carbon particles that become airborne and can remain airborne for quite some time. You must consider this if any type of fire occurs.  When it is in your breathing space, it can end up in your lungs. You may not realize it is happening, but it is, and it can cause damage to your mouth, nose, throat and, of course, where it ends up… in your lungs. And did you know that “harmless” wood smoke has many chemical similarities to cigarette smoke?
 
Skin contact can be dangerous. The International Agency for Research on Cancer says the specific type of hydrocarbons in soot are classified as a “known human carcinogen.” So if you do attempt any cleaning, remember that simple contact, not even breathing in residues, can be potentially harmful to you. Ventilation of affected spaces is required.
 
Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment is a must for the professionals, and so it should be for you if you do any of the work yourself. Qualified respiratory, skin and eye protection should be purchased.
 
So when you do have the unthinkable happen, such as from a fire, furnace puff-back or other source that produces soot, think carefully before proceeding.
 
It’s best to leave the tough work to your disaster restoration pros!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- October 2015

The Leaky Hot Water Tank

What a mess! What are we going to do!
 
Have you ever said something like that? If you have experienced a leaky hot water tank… you probably have.
 
When it happened, hopefully it was in an unfinished basement and not in an area of the house that suffered severe damage.
 
Leaks can happen anytime there is contained water, in any pipe, hose, or appliance. For hot water heaters, you add the element of pressure and heat. A leak can quickly turn into a spray of water, and a bad flood.
 
To add insult to injury, when you discover a hot water tank is leaking or flooding your home and you turn off the water, chances are those remaining 50, 60, 70, 80 or more gallons are still going to come out to haunt you. Some water tanks are big. Good for multiple occupants in your home… bad for flooding.
 
Adding insult to injury, when your hot water tank fails, you not only have to clean up the mess, but now you don’t have… hot water. It’s a cold shower for everyone until you get it fixed.
 
Of course, if a leaking hot water tank ruins your day, it’s time to bring in the water damage professionals. But there are some steps you can take so this never (hopefully!) happens to you.
 
An aging issue
 
Like any appliance, the older it gets, the more likely it may have issues. Some experts say a tank should last between 8-12 years. How long have you had your tank? If much longer than that, you may be living on borrowed time! Replacement may be necessary.
 
Healthy checkups
 
You can keep an eye on things yourself. Once a month, look over your hot water tank, inspecting for evidence of water seepage. Often, this comes from underneath the tank. If any moisture is noticeable, call a plumber and get it fixed ASAP.
 
An annual inspection by a plumbing company is a good idea as well. These visits are not that expensive and can really save you in the long run.
 
Flush away troubles
 
When you don’t see it, you don’t think about it. But inside your water tank, sediment and residues are building up. These can cause all kinds of issues. You can flush out your tank by (after reducing the temperature, of course) attaching a garden hose to the connection at the bottom of the tank and removing all the gunk and goo down there. It will have to drain somewhere, which could be a challenge. Of course, if you don’t want to mess with this, have your plumber do it for you.
 
When the unthinkable happens, though, and you are facing inches (hopefully not feet!) of water to clean up, and damaged belongings in your home as well, it’s time to call your water damage experts. After all, it pays to call a pro!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- September 2015

Toilet Tragedies

There’s not much that can cause a panic and loud screaming than when the handle of the toilet is pushed and — instead of everything swirling down into the sewer line — it all comes rushing back out.

You know what the “everything” is... and you surely do not wish to be the offending flusher who must clean it up. But someone needs to do the dirty work.

Yes, when a toilet overflows, it’s time to put on your best game face and get ready for action. Put this nightmare behind you. But before you start work, you might wish to reach for good shoes, like rubber boots, along with gloves and other protective gear. A nose clip might not be a bad idea, either.

The first order of business is to stop this exciting event from happening again. Be sure the toilet is unplugged, draining, and working properly. If you clean everything up and it all happens again, your nightmare just repeats itself.

Scrape up any (ick) solids and soak up any liquids with disposable towels. Remove as much excess contamination as possible.

Then liberally apply a strong disinfectant cleaner, something appropriate for this type of work. Your local hardware or grocery store will have a selection of products, and you may have something under your kitchen sink that will work.

Wipe down everything, even if in doubt if a surface was affected. Better safe than sorry. After doing all of this, do it one more time, just to be sure.
Follow this with cleaning the same surfaces with a typical bathroom cleaning product, to remove any remaining residues.

Although this is a common occurrence and it is a safe bet that every home has a vengeful toilet that has belched up offending olfactory gunk, be sure to do a thorough job with your cleanup process. Bacteria can grow and affect the health of your family.
​
To keep your home clean and healthy, there’s something else you can do. Reach out to your restoration pros. They know how to handle not only floods, mold, fire and smoke damage… but sewage backup as well. Let them handle the icky stuff.

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- August 2015

Cold Weather Comfort

It’s coming. You can probably feel it right now.
 
That’s right. Winter! Brrr! For some across the country, this means trying to keep warm and snug in the home.
 
Some find comfort from their fireplaces. Others might use electric blankets. And others rely on space heaters, either gas powered or electric, to boost the comfort level their regular heating system can’t always provide, especially in sub-zero temperatures.
 
Space heater safety is very important, as many suffer from accidental fires and burns annually from these necessary devices.
 
The first consideration is which type of space heater you will choose. Electric models are considered safer than those which use fuel, which can be overturned and quickly cause a fire difficult to extinguish. So be smart when shopping and consider how the heater will be used and if there are children or pets (or clumsy adults) that might tip it over.
 
Safety features
 

• Consider the size and shape of the heater. Lower-profile heaters are more difficult to tip over. Some space heaters are shaped like a tower, and can easily be tipped. Avoid those.

 

• While all space heaters should have an automatic turn-off mechanism if tipped over, still do your research and ensure yours has one.

 

• If you have children or pets, an outer grill safety feature should be mandatory. You don’t want accidental contact burns to occur.

 
Safety tips
 

• Measure the area you wish to heat and make sure the device you purchase is sufficient for the space. An overworked heater can be dangerous. And one that is too large for a room can overheat the room and be uncomfortable.

 

• When purchasing a fuel-fired heater, never fill it while the device is on. Open flames are dangerous. Use appropriate, approved containers to carry the fuel.

 

• When purchasing an electric heater, make sure it is plugged into a three-prong outlet that is grounded. Any extension cords you use must be able to handle the current your heater will need. Be sure to ask an expert about this.

 

• Common sense dictates keeping any flammable materials away from the heater, such as furnishing, draperies, etc.

 

• When you turn the heater off, give it plenty of time to cool down before touching or moving it.

 
But if anything does happen, such as a fire or smoke damage, then it’s time to get some professional help. Call your disaster restoration experts. After all, it pays to call a pro!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- July 2015

Appliance Adversities

Water damage issues in your home can really ruin a good day… week… or month.
 
You want to do all you can to avoid any type of flooding because damage can be quite extensive and expensive. One thing you can do to avoid future issues is to ensure your appliances are in good working order and that they don’t spring a leak that can damage your home.
 
Obviously, the biggest threat in your home is the toilet. Or toilets, if you have more than one bathroom. They can plug up, overflowing when you flush them. They can also leak at the seal, where the toilet sits on the floor. And, of course, the supply line can leak, sometimes slowly but occasionally with a strong spray of water. This normally happens when you replace the parts inside the toilet tank. Make sure you do a good job when you work on your toilet! You don’t want any surprises popping up.
 
Second on the list is your washing machine. Its job is to fill up with hot, soapy water, do some shaking, and clean your clothes, and then drain into the sewage system. However, sometimes the drain can become plugged and water can come spewing out, causing all kinds of damage. A hot or cold supply hose can also break, and if you aren’t home when that happens, the damage can be devastating. Be sure to inspect your drain and the condition of your hoses regularly. The seals on the door need to be inspected as well, if it is a front-loading machine.
 
Third in this lineup of appliances is your dishwasher. It’s like your washing machine but doesn’t fill up with water quite as much, but if it springs a leak, whether from the drain or from the door, you will have a big mess. Using too much dishwashing detergent can also be a cause of a machine overflowing. Inspect the supply and drain hoses and use the appropriate amount of detergent. The seals on the door, like your front-loading washing machine, need some attention from time to time.
 
When the worst happens, and your home suffers from any type of flooding, do the right thing. The safest thing. Call your water damage restoration experts.
 
After all, it pays to call a pro!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- June 2015

Smoke Alarms Save Lives
 
We’ve all heard Smokey the Bear give his famous, sage advice: “Only you can prevent forest fires.”
 
While Smokey was right on the mark with his advice and, no doubt, saved millions of trees and countless lives with his message, the same applies to the affect you can have on your home and those you care about most: Your family.
 
How can you protect what means the most to you? By using quality smoke alarms and ensuring they are kept in good working order, maintained and tested regularly.
 
Here are some points to consider when choosing, installing and maintaining smoke alarms.
 
Choosing the best
 
When roaming the aisles at your favorite home improvement store or searching online, you quickly discover there are many options available and your initial thought of just buying one is dispelled.
 
The most important consideration is one that uses two types of detection: Ionization and photoelectric. Using a dual-sensor alarm system adds a layer of protection for your family. The ionization detector option sounds the alarm faster when a fire is a fast-flame type. Photoelectric detectors sound the alarm best when a fire is slow and smoldering.
 
Installing them properly
 
This isn’t about just buying one fire alarm and putting it in the living room or kitchen. No, you need one smoke alarm outside each bedroom and another one in the hallway or central area of each level in the home.
 
The alarms should be mounted on the ceiling, since heat and smoke rises. Keep them several inches from the wall, and away from both cold air return and fresh air supply vents.
 
Maintenance and testing
 
Most fire alarms come with a simple button for testing purposes. Once each month, safely climb up on a chair or ladder and push the button. A loud, very irritating screeching sound will emanate, indicating it is ready for action. Pushing the button again usually turns it off. While you are up there testing, use a blast of compressed air to clear away dust, cobwebs, and anything else that could interfere with the operation of the smoke alarm. Do this for all alarms in your home.
 
Don’t forget to change the batteries on an annual basis. Set a reminder on your electronic device, such as your phone or tablet, or pencil it in on a paper calendar.
 
And if the unthinkable happens, and a fire does occur in your home, don’t forget your disaster restoration professionals are ready for action. They can restore your home and belongings. After all, it pays to call a pro!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- May 2015

It’s Bib Time!
 
Each year, just about November, homeowners living in colder climates must think about a simple winterizing job.
 
And if you don’t live in colder climates, read on… because this will help you feel better about where you choose to hang your hat!
 
When winter comes along, most think about what they can do to keep their house warm and draft-free. They make sure any weather stripping is in good shape; they have the furnace and/or fireplace inspected; and perhaps have the ductwork cleaned.
 
What many don’t consider is what’s outside, such as the hose attached to the hose bib on the side of the home. You know, what you used nearly every day to water the lawn, garden, and flowers.
 
Remember, water freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and while that may not feel so cold to you as you wear a light sweater or jacket, it’s enough for ice to form and pressure to build up in the hose bib.
 
When that happens, the pressure that builds up can damage the hose bib and break it.
 
You might be saying, “I have a frost-free hose bib” — and while that is good and even better than a traditional hose bib, don’t trust it too much. They have been known to fail and cause flooding in homes.
 
Now, you might be wondering why all the fuss. The hose bib might freeze and break and… it might not. If it does break, nothing really happens all winter and you just might think all is well. The problem is in the spring. When that hose bib is turned on, the break from the frozen water is back in the wall, not outside the wall where you hook up the hose. So as you are merrily watering away during a nice, spring day, you are also watering the inside of your home, perhaps flooding your basement with water.
 
You can test your hose bib easily in the spring. Hook up your hose, crimp it, and turn on your hose bib. Listen carefully. If you hear water running in the wall, quickly turn it off. You have a break and probably need the services of a plumber.
 
But if the worst happens, and you do have any type of flooding in your home —  no matter the source — do the smart thing. Call your water damage company. After all, it pays to call a pro!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- April 2015

Power Cord Safety
 
We all need power. Especially of the electrical variety. Without it, nothing works. Your appliances that run on batteries might work for a little while, but without a charge, they die. Anything that is plugged into an outlet is worthless without that spark of energy we rely on virtually every minute of every day.
 
And… when your power goes out… you panic!
 
One aspect of power and electricity that is often ignored or forgotten is what carries it to various devices in your home. That’s right… the power cord plays an integral part of using electricity and should also be a concern when it comes to safety issues.
 
In addition to the installed power cord, extension cords are frequently used to increase the range or reach of electrical outlets. No matter which type of cord you are using and the length, consider these safety tips to protect your home and family.
 
Check for damage
Make sure your power cords don’t have any cracks or breaks and aren’t frayed in any way. Replace rather than repair.
 
A good fit
When you plug a cord into a wall outlet, it should be snug, not loose and falling out of the socket.
 
The third prong
It may be tempting, but some outlets, such as in older homes, may not have the third hole. It’s an important safety component of modern outlets, as it grounds the electrical current. Never remove the third prong from cords.
 
Match cords to usage
Choose cords that are of proper weight and length and can carry the electrical load appropriate for the device being powered. Ask your electrician for details, if needed.
 
Place them carefully
Make sure cords are placed where they won’t be a tripping hazard, and never put them under rugs or other furniture, especially heavy items, which can crimp and break the cords.
 
If the unthinkable occurs and you do experience a fire of any kind, and related smoke damage, do the right thing. Call your favorite disaster restoration company. It pays to call a pro!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- March 2015

How (and Where) Is Your Fire Extinguisher?

Protecting family and loved ones from danger that can occur in the home is a top concern and a priority for all.
 
Besides ensuring your home has an adequate number of fire alarms and smoke detectors, that they are placed in appropriate locations, and are in proper working order, there’s another factor involved with protecting members of a household.
 
It’s fire. A house fire is an unthinkable event, yet one that occurs more often than you might think.
 
Some of the more common house fires start in the kitchen, often from cooking. A small grease fire can quickly grow and become devastating. Others can ignite from faulty wiring or over-loaded or overworked appliances. Still others are accidents, such as from turning over a kerosene-fired heater or a burning candle. There are many others.
 
When any of those events occur, being ready for action is vital. Calling the fire department is at the top of the list. Battling even the smallest of fires without help on the way can be deadly.
 
When a fire does occur, it’s natural to grab the fire extinguisher. But… where is it? Why not do a simple test. As you read this, ask those in the home right now if they know where the fire extinguisher is located. You might be surprised by the responses. But don’t get mad at anyone. Being unfamiliar with the location of the fire extinguisher is common.
 
Then there are various types of fire extinguishers. Which one should you have? That’s a question you should ask of your fire-fighting professionals. Not having the proper extinguisher can be as deadly as not having one at all.
 
So far, this discussion has been about one fire extinguisher. Yet you should have them placed strategically throughout the home, especially areas prone to fire. This could be several extinguishers of various types for a single dwelling.
 
Finally, everyone in the household needs to know how to operate the extinguisher. According to FEMA, there are four basic steps, that could be remembered with the acronym PASS:
 
1.Pull the pin and hold the extinguisher away from you and release the locking mechanism.

2.Aim low and point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

3.Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

4.Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

Of upmost importance is listening to the experts. Contact your local authorities for the absolute best fire prevention advice.
 
And if the unthinkable happens, and a fire does occur in your home, don’t forget your disaster restoration professionals are ready for action. They can restore your home and belongings. After all, it pays to call a pro!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- February 2015

Seasonal Mold Removal
 
There are many types of mold, and you never want to put yourself or your family at risk when you see some in your house. When it is in your home, it’s time to call a mold professional. Fast!
 
But outside the house? That’s a different matter altogether.
 
One fact people don’t always appreciate is mold is everywhere. It’s a product of nature, and found inside and outside. When you find it inside, the mold spores can become concentrated, and depending on the severity of allergic reactions, can even be dangerous. That’s why mold contamination in a structure must be remediated by a mold professional.
 
Mold that is outside your home is especially noticeable when it is on your home, such as the wood, vinyl or brick siding, or horizontal areas such as decking. When that happens, don’t panic… this mold is where it should be and isn’t much of a danger, unless you or those in your household are prone to allergen exposure associated with mold spores.
 
If you don’t have allergen issues, then a regular cleaning of the exterior of your home should be a simple task. You have several options you can utilize to accomplish this.
 
Clean and scrub
 
The oldest, tried-and-true method of cleaning the exterior of your home from soil, debris, and mold, involves a bucket, brush, sudsing detergent, ladders, and hoses. Using a pump-up sprayer to wet down the exterior means you can get better contact and soak time, and your scrubbing and “elbow grease” efforts are minimized.
 
Choose a small section at a time. If your cleaning solution dries out, you must re-apply solution and start over. Wash the section, rinse it thoroughly, and allow to dry and then inspect. It may take a couple of cleanings to get the results you want. Any moldy soils that you wash away, make sure you don’t get them on your clothing and bring them inside.
 
Power washing
 
This is the most effective, time-saving method of cleaning the exterior of your home and removing mold growth.
 
You can purchase power washing equipment inexpensively, and you can spend hundreds of dollars as well. The inexpensive version will be electric, and the expensive version powered by gasoline. Either way works well; gas powered versions will be more powerful and faster to use.
 
As with any surface, apply your detergent and allow it to soak. Then power wash the exterior, washing off soil and mold away from you. Always be safe. Any contact you have with mold, be sure to wash off completely and don’t track it into your home.
 
Use a pro
 
Your favorite cleaning and restoration company knows how to tackle this type of chore best. Do the smart thing and save some time and even some money. And headaches as well. Call them up. After all, it pays to call a pro!

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Art- MZ article – Restoration- January 2015

Sump Pump Misery
 
Your home may be nice and warm — and dry — but if you have a basement and a sump pump, anything can happen if there is a failure of your trusty remover of ground water.
 
Sump pumps work to keep basements dry in certain geographic locations, and we trust our own pump will continue as a reliable sentinel of protection. Yet, as is the case with any mechanical device, failure will eventually happen.
 
How long should your sump pump work? It depends on several factors, including how hard it works and the mineral content of the groundwater it is pumping out. Anything can happen. The experts say that a sump pump should last an average of 10 years, so do the math.
 
How old is your sump pump? It might be a good idea to consult a plumber (or do it yourself) and replace it before it fails.
 
How they work
 
Sump pumps work on demand. When the ground is dry, they obviously don’t do anything. But when it begins to rain, or groundwater begins to rise naturally, the float switch rises and the pump starts up, removing water to the outside, usually to a storm drain. When the water level lowers, the float switch follows and turns off the pump.
 
Sometimes, the float switch can become stuck in the “up” position, which means the pump will run continuously. Most people can hear their pump and if you notice it is running continuously, go look and check the float. If the float is down, and the pump is running, it is time to consider replacement.
 
Over time you will get to know the normal sound of your pump and anything out of the ordinary will get your attention. Don’t ignore an abnormal sound. A flooded basement is no fun.
 
Replacement
 
The cost of a sump pump can be as low as $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on the model you choose. Larger capacity pumps cost more, obviously.
 
Installing a sump pump can be straightforward, simple. When you purchase a new pump, such as at your favorite hardware store, ask for instructions. Some of them come with the pump, but the experts who sell you the pump also know what to do.
 
You can also call a plumber. That shouldn’t be too expensive as a professional will make quick work of the task. And you have the peace of mind that the pump is installed correctly and working as it is designed.
 
Of course, if your pump ever fails you and your basement floods, you need professional help to clean up the mess. Call your favorite water damage restoration company. After all, it pays to call a pro!