Drying Equipment

Drying After A Water Damage Event

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Drying out a home or commercial property is one of the last stages in the water damage process. Generally, once we begin drying, we have completed the water removal and were complete with the extraction as well. Once the drying/extraction begins, all furniture gets removed and goes off the property. Depending on how much water damage occurred, our fans and equipment will get the water extracted all the moisture pulled out of the property. If you’ve experienced a residential or commercial water damage emergency and need for us to provide drying services, please give us a call, and we’ll get a team headed out to your home or business immediately.

How long does the drying for water damage take?

Depending on the size of the property and how extensive the damage has occurred are two factors in how long the drying will take. Generally, when we arrive at a residence, we can dry the home in less than 24 hours. Fortunately for us, in Scottsdale and Phoenix, we have an arid climate. Consequently, once the water emergency stops and the fans have begun, the environment helps us with the drying process. We have performed hundreds of drying projects for all types of properties and are equipped to deal with any emergency you’re experiencing and restore your property to its original state.

Square One Restoration only hires the best restoration technicians!

Our hiring standards here at Square One Restoration are among the highest in the state. We wanted to have higher standards than our competitors because we wanted to do a better job than our competitors. Higher standards mean that the pool of workers available to us is smaller than the pool of workers available to our competitors and they’re willing to take those workers. We opted to grow slower and only have quality workers. If that takes a little longer to build our workforce, so be it, because we only want the best. Fortunately for us, our technicians have gotten that memo, They have worked extraordinarily hard to maintain our excellent relate reputation in Scottsdale and Phoenix.

Why choose Square One Restoration?

Our customers have reviewed us one of the top water damage restoration companies in Arizona. We focus on customer service and customer happiness more than any other home contracting business in Phoenix/Scottsdale. Our goal every project is to have a happy customer. Prioritizing customer service above everything else has allowed us to stay focused on what matters. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to read through our reviews and see what our customers have said about working with us.

We look forward to showing you how exceptional we take care of our customers. 

Square One Restoration is a 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Restoration Company Servicing Phoenix Scottsdale Arizona 365 days a year. 

Our location is 6730 E McDowell Rd #129, in gorgeous Scottsdale, Arizona 85257. Square One Restoration’s phone number is 602 753 3655. 

We answer the phone 24 hours a day.

Indoor Air Quality

Understanding Indoor Air Quality: Issues and Prevention

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Mold growth, structural damage, and property loss are the well-attended concerns after a home was hit with water damage. Indoor air quality becomes the least of their concern, probably because it is not visible to our naked eyes. However, in reality, this invisible problem could be the cause of health hazards in a home.

Just like structural damage, indoor air quality problems should also be addressed to have a healthy and liveable home.

What is Indoor Air Quality?

Indoor air quality or known as IAQ refers to the quality of air within or around the home or a workplace. The term itself doesn’t only explain the specific environment of a structure. It also explains the several factors which include; natural contaminants such as bacteria and mold, comfort issues like poor ventilation, changing temperature, too high or too low humidity and man-made pollutants such as burning oil, coil and so on.

To conserve energy, homes today are built with stricter standards of air-tightness, which keeps outdoor air to infiltrate inside the structure. Nowadays, people tend to spend more time in those enclosed structures. That is the reason why indoor air quality has an increasing impact on the health condition and well-being of a person.

With that said, keeping healthy indoor air is very vital. Thus, proper cleanup after any type of water damage has to be done properly. 

Indoor Air Problems after Water Damage

Indoor air problems after water damage may be the least of your concern. But, failure to address problems of contaminated materials and high moisture and humidity area can be hazardous to your health and your family as well.

Floodwater contains a variety of dangerous substances such as pathogens, bacteria, microbes, and other contaminants. Contamination can release airborne viruses that, if inhaled, can cause congestion, throat infection or a lung infection. Flooding can also contain solvents, ammonia, pesticides and other man-made chemicals that can release toxic fumes.

Standing water and wet materials are a perfect breeding ground for mold growth. Mold can start growing and release mold spores in just about 24 to 48 hours. Within the enclosed home and perfect condition (with high-level humidity, food source, and darkness), mold spores can quickly spread and raise its level of toxic when inhaled. Other microbes, such as dust mites and pollens can also grow in a wet or damp environment and could cause airborne allergens. 

How to Avoid Indoor Air Problems

Time is the essence when dealing with the aftermath of water damage. The longer the water sits in your home, the more microbes and allergens can grow and spread causing hazards to the occupants.

 

  • Remove Standing Water

 

Keep in mind that standing water is a perfect breeding ground for common microorganisms such as mold and dust mites, which can become airborne and pollutant. Sensitive individuals are more prone to allergic reactions to these microbes.

If you are handy, use a shop vac to completely remove the standing water. But, if you don’t have any tools to use, you may use an old towel and a bucket to remove the water.

Removing standing water as quickly as possible can prevent you from being harmed and can lessen structural damage.

 

  • Dry out your home

 

The drying process could take several days or even a week. But doing this is vital for having healthy indoor air.

Use a dehumidifier or ordinary electric fans to dry out your home. If the weather permits, or if it is not too humid, open the doors and windows to allow air circulation.

 

  • Discard Unsalvageable Items

 

It is truly difficult to abolish items in a home, especially those with sentimental value. But keeping these items that were soaked by water can greatly influence the indoor air quality of your home. Some materials that are damp and can hardly sanitize and dried can be a perfect place for mold growth.   

 

  • Clean and Sanitize Your Home

 

Thorough cleaning and sanitizing are one of the keys to healthy indoor air quality. You should wash and disinfect floors, wall, shelves, closets and other contents of the house. It is also suggested by the FEMA to disinfect and sanitize ductwork that was affected by water damage.

Be cautious when using disinfectants and sanitizers as they contain toxic substances. Check the label and follow the correct procedures.

 

  • Address the Source of the Problem

 

Fixing the leaky pipes, repairing or replacing broken appliances or installing a dehumidifier might be some of the things you need to do to address the source of the problem.

 

When water damage hits your home, it is best to leave it to certified professionals. Square One Restoration professionals guarantee complete water damage removal and restoration and mold remediation services to ensure the indoor air quality of your home. They respond and act fast to control and eliminate contamination. Dealing with water damage now? Contact Square One today.

water damage from a toilet

How To Deal With Water Damage From A Toilet

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A toilet is considered to be one of the most important rooms in a house. It is important in maintaining someone’s hygiene in a comfortable and private environment. However, in some cases, it fails to perform its function.

Water damage from a toilet can be even more frustrating as you have to deal with water that contains pathogens or can cause health hazards. It is highly recommended that when this type of water damage happens, it is best to call in professionals.

Water Damage Caused by Toilet Overflowing

There are many reasons why your toilet becomes the source of water damage. However, the most common reason is overflowing. Overflowing happens when something has clogged your toilet. It happens unintentionally or because people are not so aware of the negative effect of throwing things on your toilet bowl.

What To Do If Your Toilet Overflows

Knowing how to handle toilet overflows can help you manage such an intense situation. Follow the steps below when your toilet overflows.

  1. Turn off the water supply. When overflowing starts happening in your toilet, you should turn off the water supply line immediately. Most of the time this valve can be found near the bottom side of the bowl, below the tank.

If water is keeps running, remove the tank cover and pull up the float cup or float ball to stop the water. If this did not stop the water from running, turn off the main water supply line in the house.

  1. Don’t flush again. If you are sure that your toilet is clogged, never attempt to flush it again. Keep flushing does not help in fixing the problem.
  2. Use a plunger. If water has stopped running, try using a plunger to unclog your toilet. Plungers are effective tools in dislodging clogs.
  3. Try an auger to remove clogs. If a plunger was not able to fix the problem, you may try an Auger. The good thing about a toilet auger is it can move through the drain of the toilet and remove any obstructions. And when done, you can simply pull it off.
  4. Contact a professional plumber to fix the problem.
  5. Contact a certified restoration company to sanitize and clean up toilet water damage.

How to Prevent Water Damage From Your Toilet

There are two ways you can prevent water damage from your toilet.

  • Make sure to perform bi-annual maintenance. Check all the components of your toilet. That includes supply valve, flush valve, fill, chain and others. If any of these components need repair, do so. Make sure that you know how to turn off the water valve.
  • Keep the wrong things away from your toilet bowl. Never flush fatty fluids, baby wipes, diapers, soap, facial tissue, paper, fabric, sanitary products, and even products that claimed to be flushable in your toilet bowl. Use is for its purpose alone. Don’t use it as your instant garbage can.

Clean and Sanitize Your Bathroom after Overflowing

Once you have stopped water running into your bathroom and you have removed any standing water, begin cleaning and sanitizing all the surfaces of your bathroom. You may use a multipurpose cleaning agent. Clean every surface, including the areas that did not come in contact with the water that overflowed from the toilet. Then, use a hospital-grade disinfectant. This chemical can sanitize your bathroom and prevent mold growth later on.

Do not use bleach as it cannot effectively kill molds.

What If Toilet Overflowed through Ceiling?

When the toilet that has overflowed is located on the 2nd or 3rd floor of the home, it is most likely your ceiling downstairs will be affected.

Remember that the floor of your bathroom upstairs is the ceiling of the lower part of your home. If water has seeped into the floor, it may damage the ceiling below.

You won’t easily see signs of water damage from your ceiling when only a small amount of water overflows. But be sure to be on guard for any possible things that could happen.

When wastewater starts dripping from your ceiling, you may follow certain procedures in fixing water damaged ceiling. In most cases, you have to replace the affected area to avoid further damage.

Will My Insurance Company Cover Water Damage from Toilet?

Maybe yes, maybe no. It depends highly on how the damage occurs. Your homeowner’s insurance company will cover water damage from a toilet when the damage happened suddenly or by accident. If your toilet is properly maintained, they will surely cover the damage. If the cause of the water damage from a toilet was caused by your sewer line, your insurance company will likely uncover the damage.

Let Professionals help you

It is indeed difficult to handle water damage from a toilet. Not only it is time-consuming and stressful, but it is also dangerous as the water may contain harmful bacteria. Let the local water damage restoration company help you. They can surely sanitize your bathroom and make sure that no further damage will happen, especially to your flooring. Contact them today.

water damage from dishwashers

What Causes Water Damage From Dishwashers

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Just like any other appliances in the home, a dishwasher is one of the most useful tools you can have in your home. Not only it makes your life easier, but it also helps in saving some of your time and spend it to more important things, like family bonding.  Yes, it is very useful and inexpensive; however, when it takes its toll, it becomes frustrating and could cause problems such as water damage. 

A simple leak from a dishwasher can become a big problem. Water can travel inside your home and will seep into areas that are accessible to do so. Addressing the issue promptly is extremely necessary.

How Can Dishwasher Water Damage Your Home 

There are plenty of reasons that a dishwasher can damage some parts of your home or parts that are susceptible to water such as tile, wood, drywall, wallpaper, laminate, and electrical wiring. Understanding how they can be damaged by a dishwasher can help in preventing water damage.

Worn Or Damaged Gaskets

A gasket is a silicone or rubber that is used to fill the space between the door and the tub. Its purpose is to prevent water to leak from the inside. However, a gasket has its limitation. It becomes deteriorated in the long run and a dishwasher could cause water damage. Regularly check for cracks or signs of potential damage on your dishwasher. If you are concerned, worried or anxious about the worn-out gasket, let professionals handle your problem.

Broken or Loose Water Lines

A dishwasher has two different connections. One line connects to the kitchen sink faucet and supplies clean water and the other one leads dirty water to drain out. These water lines can get loose over time. That is why giving it a quick check, at least every six months, is very crucial. Check the hoses. Replace them if necessary. Remember that supply lines can create ample damage when they break down. 

Using of Wrong Dishwashing Soap

Using a regular dishwashing soap could lead to overflowing, bubbly scenario. And, it could result in water leaking from your dishwasher. Use only soap that is specifically designed for a dishwasher. If you must use regular dishwashing soap, it is better to wash dishes manually.

Broken Or Leaky Door

A broken or defective door is the most common cause of water damage by a dishwasher. The leak from the door of the dishwasher happens mostly due to the loosen latch and hinges or the crews on the door. You can solve this problem on your own by using the proper screwdriver. Tighten the screws as hard as you can.

Broken Tub

A tub is the interior part of the dishwasher where you can find all the nozzles and racks. Detergents and minerals that are used in washing the dishes can be built up in the long run. These elements can corrode the lower part of the tub. If that happens, water can seep out and gather under your dishwasher. If the problem is difficult to handle and is frequently used, this problem might go unnoticed. Eventually, this problem can result in mold and water damage to the subflooring under your dishwasher. And, if the water leak is not mitigated right away, the damage can become more severe.   

 

How to Prevent Water Damage from Your Dishwashers

  1.     Scan the manual. Not all dishwashers are the same. As an owner, you should understand what is inside and outside of your dishwasher. The manual will give you ideas of the proper type and amount of soap you can use. Knowing important information can prevent problems that could cause water damage.
  2.   Give your dishwasher proper maintenance. Proper maintenance can keep your dishwasher working properly. Most parts that you have to check on your dishwasher are flushing filters, rubber seals, gaskets, and spray nozzles. 
  3.   Use only the appropriate parts. The hoses and seals should be the appropriate ones for the type or model of your dishwasher. If you must change these parts, make sure that they properly fit your dishwasher. Unfit hoses and seals could lead to a leak.
  4.   Check your supply line and drain hose. A dishwasher has two water lines, the clean water supply line and the dirty water drain hose. Damage to any one of them could lead to a water leak and mold growth. If you notice any problems, fix it right away or call a plumber.
  5.   Use the dishwasher only when someone is at home. It is the best way to prevent water damage from a dishwasher. If the problem is seen right away, you can solve it at once. 

 

Water damage caused by a dishwasher can be very frustrating and stressful. Not only you have to worry about the problem with the dishwasher itself but also with the repair requires for the damage it has caused. Don’t worry! A professional restoration company can help you solve this problem. They are equipped with advanced skills, equipment, and knowledge in fixing any type of water damage. 

Contact professional restoration company today!

Mold in your home: How can it affect your health?

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Molds are kind of microorganism that travels through air and can easily enter one’s property through the windows. They naturally appear in our nature, both indoor and outdoor. Where there is moisture in a property, there is undoubtedly mold. They are increasingly noticeable in spots where much dampness is. 

Once the molds contaminated property, it can spread effectively in the following forty-eight (48) hours. Besides, it can likewise harm the physical structure of your home like your home establishment, drywall, rooftop, canals, outfitting and the sky is the limit from there. On the off chance that unnoticed, it can have a serious effect on your well-being, for example, headaches, breathing difficulties, skin irritation, and allergic reactions. 

There’s a Mold in Your Home: Who’s at Risk?

For people who are sensitive to mold, being close to mold including touching and inhaling mold spores can possibly cause allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, watery eyes, itchy eyes, coughing and skin irritation or rashes. However, inhaling and touching mold spores for people who suffer from serious mold allergies may lead to more severe reactions, including shortness of breath. And for people with asthma, and are allergic to mold at the same time, touching and breathing in mold spores can also lead to asthma attacks.

Indoor mold may be unsightly and smelly, but the potential problems are more serious than that. By definition, actively-growing mold damages the material it lives on, thereby impairing structural integrity. In addition, mold is associated with some untoward health effects in humans, such as allergies and infections. Although for the fact that the molds themselves are non-toxic nor poisonous, there are some molds that produce toxic chemicals such as mycotoxin. Furthermore, regardless of these types of molds that are capable of producing toxic substances, there is no study to support this fact. The presence of these toxic substances in some molds does not always imply that toxins are produced to the extent that a health risk or problem is present unless the person who inhaled and touched these molds are sensitive to molds that may possibly lead to some allergy reactions and other symptoms, for both adults and children. 

There is considerable disagreement in the scientific community about whether indoor mold causes adverse health effects, though most researchers seem to agree that spending time in damp/moist environments can contribute to such respiratory illnesses as allergy, asthma, cough, runny nose, and sinus conditions. Whether these illnesses are caused by mold, mold by-products, dust mites, chemicals emitted from deteriorating surfaces, or indoor air pollution, remains a subject for further research.

Whether or not scientists agree that the cause of illnesses that might occur in damp places, or even the definition of dampness are molds, there are abundant reasons to keep indoor environments clean and dry. This process begins with determining the source(s) of excess moisture, taking necessary steps to eliminate those sources, getting rid of mold that may already be in place, and keeping the area dry afterward to minimize the potential for further growth of mold.

Prevention is the key

Mold growth in homes, schools, and businesses should be eliminated for the sake of human health, structural integrity, and quality of life. Cleaning up small amounts of mold can be done by homeowners. Eliminating mold from large areas requires expertise and protection both for the removal specialists and occupants of the affected space.

The level of humidity within the home is an important factor to prevent mold growth. Although it may not be immediately apparent, a high level of moisture in the air will promote mold growth. Condensation on windows is often a sign that humidity is high within a room—increasing ventilation by opening windows or using an extractor fan reduces the level of moisture in the air. Humidity can also be reduced in specific rooms by avoiding moisture-producing activities in them, such as drying clothes or using kerosene heaters.

When cleaning mold from hard surfaces, commercial products, soap, and water or a heavily-diluted bleach solution can be used. Moreover, always dry surfaces that have been cleaned thoroughly to prevent mold from growing back.

One of the most effective ways to stop mold growth in its tracks is to invest in a commercial dehumidifier. Overall, dealing with mold is a very important task, as it can do structural damage as well as cause health issues for anyone breathing it in. It is crucial that any space occupied by people of any age or state of health must be completely dry and free of mold.

In spite of the fact that we take preventive measures, molds have their method for assuming control over our home. So, on the off chance that you see any indications of form, look for expert assistance immediately for solutions.

What To Do When Water Damage your Property After A Fire

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Fire alone can have a very devastating effect on your property. It can possibly ruin the whole structure of your house and will result in a costly repair. The aftermath of fire damage does not end after extinguishing the fire itself. Soot and smoke that are normally present can be toxic to humans’ health and requires professionals to be removed and to properly clean the whole property, in order for the home to be inhabitable again.

While water is considered as a great opponent of fire, it is one of the culprits that can bring severe damage to your property. With great pressure from fire hoses,  walls, ceiling, furniture, and others have the possibility to break down. Mold colonies follow when water used in putting out a fire is not removed immediately. Mold begins to grow in your house 24 hours and will eventually eat away materials they considered as food, such as wood, floorboards, and others. Additionally, mold can cause harm to human’s health.

Both water and fire can damage your property and can even cause harmful effect on a human’s condition. It is important to address the situation right away and understand the necessary actions to take.

 

Ensure Safety Before Entering your Home

After a disastrous event, there could be invisible damage that can be very dangerous.  Before re-entering your house, ask the officials who are walking into it to know if your home is free from danger.

While you are outside, you can do a little inspection of how fire and water damage to your roof, ceilings, walls, and floorings. Check thoroughly electrical damage. If you notice damage on it, it means your house is not safe to return.

 

Notify Your Insurance Company

When it is announced that your home is safe to re-enter, giving your insurance company a call is top on the list. Notify your agent about the disaster that happened and they will inform you that an adjuster will visit the area to check the damage.

After determining the damage, your agent will inform you of what will your insurance cover and how much you will be spending. During this time, you can inquire whether your insurance company will give you a temporary shelter and provide you food expenses.

 

Record the Damage

Capture all the damage that was made by fire and water. Provide photos or videos of the belongings, walls and even the growth of mold. Moreover, create a list of all the items in the house that were included in the damage.

This information and documents are used to prove the damage of the disaster and are helpful in approving and speeding up the process of the claims.

 

Contact a Professional

When you are done making an insurance claim for the fire and water damage your property has acquired, look for a proficient professional restoration company that will handle the damage in your property and will coordinate with your insurance provider for the claim.

It is vital to contact a restoration company without delay to prevent downward spiral. An infestation of mold growth is what you have to watch out if water still remains in the area. With a delay, they will damage other parts of your home.

A professional restoration company will assess the extent of the damage, create a plan and provide the best solution in restoring your property.

 

Dry Out Your Home

While waiting for the professionals to come over your house and check your property, it is best to air out your home. If the weather is perfect enough to help in circulating air, open all the windows and doors. Additionally, let the cabinet doors and drawers open, to allow air to move. If electricity is safe to use, set up an electric fan throughout the area.

Floor rugs that were soaked in water should be removed to avoid further damage with the floorings. Place a foil under the furniture legs to prevent water from seeping upwards and cause further damage.

 

What NOT To Do after A Water Damage

There could be a lot of things to do in mitigating damage caused by a fire and water disaster. However, it is important that we listen to what professionals say about certain activities that we should never do in the aftermath of water damage. Some examples are;

  •    Wet electric appliances must not be used because doing so can generate danger.
  •    Never use a vacuum to remove excess water, instead use a sump pump if it is available.
  •    Do not enter a room that has experienced structural damage

 

Trust Square One Restoration

When your home has experienced water intrusion and fire destruction, it is most likely that your home is a complete mess and restoration and cleaning are unsafe and challenging. Water can easily spread in the entire area and can worsen the damage. Mitigating the damage as quickly as possible is crucial.

Square One restoration professionals have complete equipment and skills in mitigating the damage and restoring your property. They act fast, assess the damage and make a plan suitable for the situation. You can trust them with your worries because they can bring back your property to its normal state and becomes safe to live in.

MY WATER HEATER LEAKS: What are its signs and causes?

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Water heaters are one of the most useful equipment in the house. It provides comfort in our daily lives, especially during the cold season. You don’t want to suffer from taking a bath due to the cold water. However, with almost all types of appliances, problems can possibly occur.

Any type of water heater can last for more than a decade, with regular maintenance and cleaning. According to an IBHS (Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety) study, a water heater is one of the top five sources of water damage. A small amount of water might seem like a minor problem for a homeowner, but if taken for granted it might bring several dangers. Such as;

  •    Discoloration in wood flooring and walls
  •    Damage to baseboards and trim due to prolonged contact with water.
  •    Possibility of tank explosion
  •    Growth of mold and mildew. Mold can grow quickly when the leaking water heater is not fixed in a timely manner.

 

What Are The Signs That My Water Heater Is Leaking?

A regular inspection is necessary to prevent you from spending hundreds and thousands of dollars of repair. Check for the following signs to see whether your water heater is about to leak;

  •    Rusty water that is coming from your water heater
  •    The buildup of moisture around your water heater
  •    A frequent rumbling or banging sound when the water is heating up

Once you have already determined that your water heater is the cause of the leak, it is advisable that you turn off the power supply to your water heater to avoid injuries.  

CAUTION:  The hot water from the water heater tank is extremely hot, that could cause first degree burns on the skin on contact. Be careful not to have any contact with it when doing an inspection. Or, let the water heater cool down before doing the inspection. Be extra careful when doing this job.

What Causes The Water Heater To Leak?

There could be a lot of reasons why your water heater leaks. Seeing the leak could give you an idea that your water heater has to be replaced, but before jumping into that conclusion try to give it a thorough inspection. Know the source of the leak and check whether your water heater needs to be replaced or not. Check the list below of the common reasons why your water heater leaks.

Loose Fittings and Connections

Hot water consists of two connections – cold water inlet and hot water outlet connection. The cold water inlet is where the cold water enters the tank and the hot water outlet is where the hot water leaves the tank. These fittings and connections can be found at the top of the water heater itself. Check both of the connections to see whether it is the source of the leaking.

If any of these fittings are loose, simply tighten them with a pipe wrench or replace them with new connections.

Malfunctioned Temperature and Pressure (T&P) Relief  Valve

The T&P valve is a little lever that you can see on top and sometimes on the side of your tank. This valve is a safety mechanism that is used to relieve the pressure from within your tank if the temperature or pressure gets higher than its capacity. When temperature and pressure rise, there is a tendency of tank explosion. So, a temperature pressure relief valve plays an important role in preventing water damage.

If you see moisture coming out from the T&P valve, it’s possible that it is the source of the leak. You can also check the points of connection to the water tank to make sure that this is really the culprit of the leak. There could be two reasons why you can see a leak from the T&P valve. The first reason might be because there is an excessive pressure built up within the water heater and the valve is opening to release some pressure. In this case, your water heater is performing well and you just have to adjust the pressure and temperature of the water heater. The second reason is your water heater itself is defective. If the source of the leak is due to a defective T&P valve, it needs to be replaced.

Fixing this problem might seem like as easy as a pie, but it should be taken very seriously. Call a professional if a situation arises.  

Broken Drain Valve

A drain valve is located at the bottom of the tank. It functions as the gateway when emptying a water heater. The drain valve can be the source of the leak due to overuse and deterioration. The leak can easily be stopped by just re-tightening the valve with a wrench. If it is defective, then it has to be replaced.

The Water Heater Tank Itself

This can be the last thing you would check for water leak as water heater tanks are designed to last for many years. Due to its age and deterioration, it’s almost possible that corrosion and rust build up. When that happens, it allows the water to leak out from the tank. This problem can only be fixed by purchasing a new set of water heater.  Massive water damage to your property will definitely happen if a replacement is not done immediately.

Regular inspection and maintenance can reduce your risk of water damage due to leaking water heater. If you suspect that your water heater has an issue to address, it is a good idea to call a professional. Yet, if it is too late and severe water damage has occurred, you may contact a local Square One Restoration and Rebuild. We are available 24/7 and respond quickly to any emergency clean up and restoration.

Understanding Professional Fire Damage Restoration Process

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The destructive nature of fire is no secret. It can wreak havoc on any property no matter how much you try to prevent it. While home and commercial properties are usually insured against fire damage, they rely on fire damage restoration companies to bring their buildings back to operation in a short time.

If your home or building ever suffers from fire damage, you might wonder whom you should call for restoration work and why? The answer is a professional fire damage restoration firm. That’s because fast and effective action is essential to minimize damage to your property.

Why Rapid Action Is Essential to Minimize Damage?

Smoke and soot are always present at the building where the fire occurred along with residual water. If you don’t act fast, your building can suffer from significant damage.

Soot can Damage Surfaces

Soot is a direct result of burned material. Depending on what the fire burned, soot could be acidic and it can cause damage to nearly any surface it comes in contact with. Textured and porous surfaces are particularly vulnerable to soot staining. Soot damage is troublesome because the soot remains in the air, discoloring plastic, unburned wood, textiles, and carpeting. This goes on even after the fire has been extinguished. The longer the materials stay exposed to soot, the harder it will be to reverse the discoloration effects. You may have to replace the damaged items.

Mold Infestation

Since moisture remains in the air even after the fire has been extinguished, it can interact with mold spores causing mildew. In darker, damper spaces, mold thrives due to the moisture and produces mildew. Mildew will usually stain absorbent and porous surfaces including clothes, marble, wood, carpeting, and others. Full fire damage restoration includes removal of mold infestation and mildew vegetation. Moreover, moisture that can cause the mold to return is also removed using commercial grade dehumidifiers and air movers.

Air Quality will Degrade

A pungent odor will permeate the air in the home or commercial facility after the fire has been extinguished. This is caused by different individual odors being combined into one. For instance, mildew continues putrefying the air until it’s completely removed from all the surfaces which were affected by it. Quickly getting commercial grade dehumidifies, air movers, and air scrubbers into the affected area can reduce the effort it would take to remove the odors otherwise.

Restoration Work

Even minor restoration work should be left to an Institution of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration or IIRC-certified company. These companies are trained to carry out fire damage restoration work safely and effectively. You might be wondering how professional fire damage restoration works. So, we have discussed some important steps involved in the restoration process.  

  • Inspection and Assessment

Fire damage restoration experts will come to your commercial property or home to determine the extent of the damage. This includes inspection of the property for soot damage, smoke damage, and presence of moisture in the air. Assessment of fire damage to your property is essential for determining how restoration work should commence.

  • Sealing Breaches and Tarping the Roof

Experts will seal comprised windows, walls, and doors to ensure that no one tries to enter your premises. If the roof of your property is damaged, they will tarp it to protect your building from water damage.

  • Water Removal (If Necessary)

Before any restoration work, the fire damage restoration professionals will address water damage (if necessary). They will remove all the standing water and use commercial grade air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the affected building.

  • Soot and Debris Removal

The distinct odor that fire leaves behind is in part attributed to debris and soot. So, debris will be promptly removed to reduce the odor’s intensity. It will help the restoration crew in bringing the building to its original condition.

If there are any burned materials present on the ground, they will all be removed by fire damage restoration professionals. Otherwise, the soot that’s covering them could cause significant damage to the property.

  • Deodorization and Sanitation

The next step in the restoration process is the deodorization of affected furniture and materials and sanitization of all areas affected by water. Odors will be removed using commercial grade equipment to ensure better air quality at your commercial building or home. Smoke odors will be completely eliminated; otherwise, they will keep on reminding you of the sad incident.

  • Repair and Reconstruction Work  

The fire damage restoration professionals will take care of all the repair work. They will repair the structure and restore your property’s interior to its former condition.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you now understand the importance of fast and effective fire damage restoration and how professional fire damage restoration process works.  

If your home or commercial property suffers from fire damage, call Square One. The experts from our professional restoration company will bring your building back to its original condition.

Preventing Fire Damage and Water Damage While on Vacation

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You have finally booked a flight to your dream destination and are planning to go on a well-deserved vacation with your loved ones. Vacations are great because they allow people to relax and make memories, but sometimes the joy and excitement of the holidays turn to pain when you return home and discover that your place isn’t how you left it. While you are gone, fire and/or water can wreck your home as these forces of nature don’t take breaks and can cause damage anytime.

To ensure that your vacation doesn’t turn into a bad memory, we will show you some important things you must do before going on holidays to prevent fire damage and water damage while you are away.

Things to do to Prevent Fire Damage

Fire can wreak havoc in minutes. While the firefighters will extinguish the fire while you are gone, the damage will be done by the time they are finished. Therefore, take these precautions before going on a vacation to decrease the probability of your home catching fire.

  • Check the Smoke Alarms

The battery of your smoke alarms may have worn out. If that is the case, it won’t go off when a fire starts. So before you leave for the trip, test all your smoke alarms to see if they are working fine and replace the batteries. You won’t be in the house, but your neighbors might be able to hear the alarms going off and call the firefighters who can extinguish the fire before it turns your home into ashes. It would be a good idea to inform your neighbors that you are going on a vacation so that they can stay alert to respond to fire damage.

  • Unplug all Unnecessary Electronic Equipment

Since you will be away for several days or a couple of weeks, it makes no sense to keep unnecessary electronic items and applications plugged. So before going on a vacation, unplug all unnecessary electronic equipment like TVs, video game systems, microwave, computers, mobile chargers, etc. This will reduce the risk of fire from an electrical malfunction.

Things to do to Prevent Water Damage

Water damage can destroy your home, especially when you are away and can’t do anything to minimize the damage. Therefore, do the things listed below before leaving for a vacation to decrease the risk of water damage.

  • Turn off Water Supply

Turn off the main water supply to reduce the risk of water damage. If you have to leave it on due to some reason like to keep the sprinkler system operation, then consider turning off valves to your bathrooms, laundry room and kitchen. In the unfortunate event that there’s an issue, water won’t flow unrestricted while you are away since you turned off the valves.

  • Clean the Gutters

If your gutters are clogged and it rains, the rainwater wouldn’t drain away from your home. When that happens, water will start accumulating around your home’s founding, leading to water coming inside your home through the foundation walls or basement windows. Therefore, before leaving for a vacation, remove debris and leaves from gutters. If you can’t do it yourself, hire a plumber to clean the gutters for you to ensure that you are protected against water damage from clogged gutters.  

  • Make Sure Your Sump Pump is Working

Sump pumps collect excess water and pump it out of your home’s basement. If you have one installed in your basement, make sure that it is working fine before going on a vacation. To see if your sump pump is working, pour some water into the sump and see it pumps it out. Also, check the battery backup of your sump pump if you have the backup system and consider adding it if you don’t.

  • Get Leaks Fixed

Minor leans often conceal internal corrosion that could result in a rupture any time. So, if you notice any nagging leaks, get them fixed before you leave for your vacation.

Final Thoughts

We have discussed some important things you should for preventing fire and water damage to your home while you are away on vacation. However, despite taking these precautionary measures, your home can still suffer from fire damage or water damage. If that ever happens, call Square One for water damage or fire damage clean-up and restoration. If you find out about the damage while you are still on a vacation, call us at 602-714-1092 and give us your approval to do the clean-up and restoration work while you are away.

Water Damage Remedial Procedure

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Water damage due to flooding, sewer back-ups, plumbing leaks, and major spills can occur at a home or commercial building at any time. Water-damaged materials, mechanical components, structural components, and interior furnishing can become a source of bacteria and fungi contamination if they aren’t managed appropriately. Exposure to these harmful contaminants can lead to health problems like environmental sensitivity, allergic responses, irritation, and even infection.

This is why it is so important to start remedial work after water damage as soon as possible. If you haven’t been a victim of water damage yet, you might not know how professionals carry out water damage restoration work. So we are going to provide an overview of the steps involved in it.

Water Damage Restoration

Several variables have to be considered by the restoration team when water damage occurs in a property. However, drying wet things as quickly as possible is the top priority as it helps in limiting damages. Bacteria (microbials) are found in both indoor and outdoor environment and when moisture is present, they will grow. It is, therefore, important to remediate water damage before they can grow. During the water damage remediation process, one of the most important things to consider is the ‘water quality’.

Water Quality

Generally, water quality is divided into three categories – clean water, grey water, and black or unsanitary water.

Clean Water

The category 1 water damage is from sanitary and clean sources like toilet tanks, water lines, faucets, and drinking fountains. Although clean, this water comes with risks. If the cleaned water isn’t cleared and dried quickly, it can degrade into relatively more harmful category 2 water damage.

Grey Water

The category 2 water damage is from sources that contain contaminants that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Common sources that can cause this kind of damage include washing machines, dishwashers, and toilet overflow with urine.

Unsanitary or Black Water

The category 3 water damage is from sources that contain dangerously unsanitary contaminants. Black water can cause serious illnesses and even death if ingested. This type of water damage can result from flooding, sewer backups, and toilet overflow with feces.

Water Damage Restoration Process

A water damage restoration process consists of the following steps:

  • Evaluation of Safety Aspects

Before water damage restoration professionals enter the water-damaged area, they will evaluate the safety aspects like structural integrity, the potential for electric shock, exposure to toxic gases, and gas leaks. If the building has been exposed to category 2 or category 3 water damage, restoration professionals will equip themselves with personal protective equipment.

  • Isolating the Damaged Area

The water damage restoration professionals will isolate the damaged area by placing warning signs and barriers. This is done to ensure that intruders don’t find their way into the building while the professionals are doing their job.

  • Locating the Source of Water Damage

The next step is to identify the source of water damage and repair or eliminate it to prevent further damage.

  • Moving Furnishings and Equipment

Water damage restoration experts will move furnishings and equipment (if required) to protect them against further damage. They will also seal exhaust systems and air-handling units.

  • Removing Standing Water

All standing water will be first removed thoroughly by absorption or extraction using wet-vacuums, pumps, etc.

  • Drying Damaged Materials

After the standing water has been removed, the wet, damaged materials will be dried by using heaters, fans, and dehumidifiers. Windows will be opened if outdoor conditions can assist in the process of drying. Air movers will also be used during the restoration work. They are effective at removing the moisture from hard-to-reach areas like below carpets and behind walls. Unpleasant odors will be removed using air scrubbers, fogging machines or hydroxyl filters.

  • Remediate Components

After the moisture has been removed and everything has been properly dried, the water damage restoration professionals will proceed with restoring the damaged components. Minor repairs like replacing drywalls as well as major repairs like reconstruction will be completed.

Final Thoughts

You know now how professional water damage restoration works. Can you imagine doing everything that the professionals do on your own? Obviously not. Call Square One any time your home suffers from water damage.  We understand that a rapid response to limit water damage and cleaning, drying, and removal of wet and contaminated material is critical to minimize the opportunity for microbial growth. This is why we offer 24/7 emergency service and will arrive at your doorstep as soon as possible to start the restoration work. The experts from our professional restoration company will bring your building back to its original condition.