Water damage remediation services in Phoenix Arizona: pros and cons

Water damage remediation services in Phoenix Arizona: pros and cons

While Arizona is generally a dry state, Phoenix and nearby areas have suffered flooding before. Natural disasters due to climate change is one of the major issues that Phoenix residents have to contend with now and in the coming years. Water damage goes beyond the occasional storm damage; plumbing problems such as burst pipes can cause water leaks, leading to damage within the house or commercial property. Water damage can also come from failed appliances. Water heaters and washing machines are some of the appliances that can fail, necessitating the services of a water damage restoration company. Flooded basements, leaking faucets, and sewage backup are the other water damage scenarios that a Phoenix Arizona resident can encounter. There have been cases of mold growth within a home or commercial property in the state as well. For all these water damage scenarios in Arizona, Arizona Restoration Specialists can address and remedy the damage.

Founded over 10 years ago, Arizona Restoration Specialists has amassed the experience to deal with different water damage scenarios in the state. The restoration services company not only has experienced professionals, but it has also equipped these professionals with the best tools for water damage restoration. The company’s services go beyond water restoration; we take pride in being in the business of making life easy for our customers. We engage directly with your insurance company to ensure you do not play out of pocket where the insurance can pay. For customers without insurance covers, we extend cash discounts to ensure you are getting a great service at a fair cost. Arizona Restoration Specialists can handle water damage restoration for any water damage scenario in Phoenix and other areas in Arizona.

Studies show that attempting DIY water damage restoration can lead to unforeseen damages and expenses. Water damage restoration services professionals like Arizona Restoration Specialists not only address the cosmetic damage but also the deeper structural damage. Additionally, specialists have the equipment to ensure their safety at all times. Coupled with years of experience in water damage restoration in Arizona, the professional service providers also know which damages qualify for payment by the insurance company and which are not covered. To understand why you are better off hiring a professional water damage restoration company, here are the pros and cons.

Pros

Fast restoration

The speed at which restoration happens depends on two things; expertise and equipment. You can restore ware damage in your house or commercial property, but you need the right expertise and specialized equipment. Professional companies are likely to have the expertise because they have a big number of staff members, each with their specialization. Water damage restoration services professionals are also likely to have the best equipment because they provide commercial services. Considering the factors, and adding to the fact that a water damage restoration company will have a team on the job, hiring a professional company is the best decision.

Reduced cost and fewer losses for water and fire damage restoration

At first consideration, it might appear that hiring a professional water damage restoration company in Arizona is more expensive than doing the restoration yourself. A closer consideration will reveal that the cost of hiring a specialist company is significantly lower than that of attempting the job.

Firstly, the professionals from water damage restoration companies will restore the cosmetic and structural damage. The Arizona restoration pros will address all affected areas including possible smoke damage from water causing electrical shorting, and moisture remains from the damage.  That means the restoration process will only need to be done once; a DIY job might require several attempts.

Secondly, the professionals understand the intricacies of dealing with insurance companies. A company like Arizona Restoration Specialists even offers to pay the insurance deductible for up to $500 to the client; the company then claims that the insurance saves the customer the hassle of dealing with insurance companies’ fire and water damage claims bureaucracy.

Water damage restoration services providers also have the experience to do the job without causing additional damages. Attempting a water damage restoration on the walls can result in additional damage to the wiring and heating, for example. A team of fire and water damage specialists will know how to avoid causing additional losses when providing water damage restoration services.    

             

Safe mold growth remedy

Mold removal is a risky undertaking, especially because of how the mold formed and the health effects of inhaling mold spores. Mold grows where there was continuous water leakage. Mold removal, therefore, is not only about removing the colony but also about repairing the leak that causes the colony’s growth. A specialized professional will know to plug the leak in addition to removing the mold. Mold remediation is also about using the right chemicals to ensure no mold spores remain behind to recolonize the area. The average customer might not know what chemicals cleaning services use for specific mold types, considering there are different mold species.

If you’ve ever had a mold problem, then it is important to know how and when to fix the issue. The best way of doing so is by using new anti-mold materials that will make your home more resistant against future attacks from these pesky fungi. There are many different products on the market which can help with any size or location in need for mitigation work, but there are two main categories: air purifiers and remediators/cleaners. Many homes and buildings now have air purifiers or remediators in them. These cleaners are able to take out the toxins from pollutants like cigarette smoke, carpets treated with chemical preservatives, paints containing lead-based paint chips , etc. that may be harming you right now without your knowledge as these contaminants can't always be seen by the naked eye!

Expert advice about water damage

The commercial restoration professionals bring more than just water damage restoration services; they also advise you know how to ensure that the water damage does not occur again. An Arizona Restoration Specialists expert will for example inform you that you need to change the washing machine plumbing supply pipes every 8 years because those pipes fail within 8 to 9 years. The value of that advice can save you thousands of water damage and repair costs.

Insurance company claim assistance for restoration services

Having dealt with multiple insurance companies, the specialist company will have established relationships and developed the know-how in dealing with insurance claims.

Cons

Inconvenience of having strangers in the house or on the property

It is inconvenient to have multiple people in your house or business working on a water damage restoration undertaking. People who prefer privacy might find the thought of a team of people in their space intimidating.You might be apprehensive to have a team of people in your home or business. How do you know that they're not going to steal anything? However, it is necessary for each person on the team to contribute their skills and expertise together so we can get this done quickly.

Costs of the restoration services

The upfront costs of professional repair services are high, especially when the water damage is structural. Structural repairs can be costly and time consuming but it also depends on how much you're willing to spend. There's a chance that if more money was invested in quality protection products up front then there would have been less harm done by mold or moisture - which means cheaper long-term consequences for your home as well!

Structural damages are expensive because they take longer to fix than superficial ones like paint peeling off walls from dampness; however, taking preventative measures might make these problems easier and quicker fixes later down the line with little cost incurred.

Summary

 

While Arizona is generally a dry state, Phoenix and nearby areas have suffered flooding before. Natural disasters due to climate change is one of the major issues that Phoenix residents have to contend with now and in the coming years. Water damage goes beyond the occasional storm damage; plumbing problems such as burst pipes can cause water leaks, leading to damage within the house or commercial property.  To understand why you are better off hiring a professional water damage restoration company, here are the pros and cons. Fast restoration, Reduced cost and fewer losses for water and fire damage restoration, Safe mold growth remedy, Expert advice about water damage, Insurance company claim assistance for restoration services are the pros of restoration services while Inconvenience of having strangers in the house or on the property and Costs of the restoration services consider to be the cons of hiring a restoration services.

Arizona Restoration Specialists understand the different water damage scenarios common to Phoenix Arizona homes and business properties. The company understands the intricacies of dealing with insurance companies. More importantly, our company has the expertise to deal with water damage, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, and other damages to your premises. We guarantee to be at your door within 45 minutes of calling us, and we shall not leave until the restoration is complete. Our customers often commend our efficient customer service and appreciate the considered costs. Call us right now on 602-207-8529 to speak to a real person about your restoration needs.

source http://www.arizonarestorationspecialists.com/water-damage-remediation-services-in-phoenix-arizona-pros-and-cons

What Causes Water Intrusion in Phoenix, Arizona?

When you own a home or run a business in Phoenix, AZ, there are many aspects of this ownership that must be considered. Taking care of the building itself is an important, ongoing task, and one of the worst things that homeowners or business owners could find out about the structure is a water leak or water intrusion.

The possible severe effects of a water leak include weakening the structural integrity of the building as well as endangering the health and safety of the inhabitants of the home or business. Toxic mold may develop if a water leak (even a minor leak) is not detected and taken care of in a timely manner. Mold can lead to serious respiratory issues and other health-related concerns. The structure of the building can also be affected by a water leak problem which can, in turn, require costly repair work on the plumbing, pipes, and other areas of the building.

Those homeowners or business owners who suspect there may be a potential leak should waste no time in contacting a company that can provide expert plumbing services using state-of-the-art equipment and guaranteed customer satisfaction. In Phoenix, AZ, and the surrounding area, the family-owned and experienced plumbers at Arizona Restoration Specialists can provide you the water leak detection services you need.

What Is a Water Intrusion?

When there is unwanted water or water vapor moving through areas of your home or business that can be affected and damaged by the water, this is considered a water intrusion. A water leak in the roof, flooding in the basement from a broken washing machine, and even a swimming pool leak is considered water intrusion and need to be remedied as quickly and effectively as possible.

In addition to the more obvious types of water intrusion such as major flooding or a burst pipe, there are also more subtle types of leaks that can still cause serious damage. Water vapor and condensation can accumulate in certain areas of the home or business and have the potential to wreak havoc on the plumbing and structural integrity of the building.

What Causes Water Intrusion?

There are a wide variety of ways that water can leak into your home or office, depending on the structure, the age of the building, and the current weather you are experiencing. In most cases, the leaks are uncontrolled and unexpected which can make the situation even more stressful and challenging for the homeowner or business owner. 

At Arizona Restoration Specialists, we have seen it all when it comes to water intrusions, and we can handle anything that may occur. Here are some of the most common causes of water intrusions:

• Burst pipes
• Overflowing sink, toilet, bathtub, washing machine, dishwasher, hot water heater, or other appliance
• Roof leaks
• Condensation above the ceilings
• Sewer line backups
• Poor drainage
• Flooding caused by major storms or other severe weather conditions
• Moisture from within the building envelope

Whether you are seeing large puddles of water, have a wet carpet, or are simply smelling something musty, you may have a serious water intrusion problem in your home or office. You need professional water leak detection services to assess the situation and remedy the leak as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your property.

Are Arizona Leak Detection Services Really Necessary?

In short, yes. Professional leak detection services in Phoenix, AZ, are critical when it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of your home or business as well as the health of the inhabitants of the building. Although major flooding or a serious leak in the plumbing is pretty obvious, the other types of leaks and water encroachment may be more difficult to detect.

If there is a strong odor, buckling or discoloration in the paint, wobbling in the floor, and bubbling can all be signs of a major water leak. A serious increase in the water bill may be indicative that there is a plumbing issue that requires the expertise of a professional plumbing company owned and operated in Phoenix, AZ.

Water leak detection may not always be easy if the leak is in a hard-to-see the location or does not have obvious signs. Just like gas leaks, a water intrusion needs professional detection and remediation to minimize damage and prevent serious harm to family members or employees. Customers should rely on the professional inspection and repair services of an experienced plumbing company to take care of any leaks coming from pipes, toilets, showers, swimming pools, or any other location in the home.

At Arizona Restoration Specialists, we offer non-invasive, non-destructive detection using state-of-the-art equipment and technology to find hidden water leaks, gas leaks, sewer leaks, and much more. We will not just look at changes in your water meter to find the problem. Our trained technicians in Phoenix, AZ, have the leak detection education and skills needed to find your plumbing or swimming pool leak and fix it for you effectively and efficiently.

Contact Our Phoenix, AZ, Water Leak Detection Experts

If you are a homeowner or business owner in the Phoenix, AZ, area and believe there may be a pipe leaking on your property, it is important that you contact the expert plumbing technicians at Arizona Restoration Specialists. Our team will help you locate the source of the leak and use our specialized equipment to complete the repair of the leaking area. We are happy to discuss the entire process with our customers to ensure that you are always well-aware of what will be happening on your property at each stage.

At Arizona Restoration Specialists, we are available to come to your property for a plumbing job 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our whole team is licensed and insured for all types of commercial and residential restoration projects. Our plumber will inspect your property thoroughly, detect the areas in need of repairing, and use the best techniques available in the industry to protect your house or business from the potential damage of leaking in the ground, walls, foundation slab, floors, or any other areas.

When it comes to the cost of the leak repair or broken pipe, we are happy to provide you with a free phone consultation to discuss the issue in your house or business, and we will also give you a free leak inspection and estimates. Additionally, we are certified to work with all insurances, and we will pay you up to $500 to help with your deductible. For customers who pay cash without insurance for our services, we even offer a discount.

For quality and courteous services from plumbers you can trust, Arizona Restoration Specialists is here for you. When you contact us for leak detection services, you will always talk to a real person no matter what time of day it is, and our team can be at your door within 45 minutes of your call. We are IICRC certified and use state-of-the-art equipment for repair, maintenance, and preventative services. Call today to find out more or to schedule an appointment for our leak detection service in Phoenix and the surrounding areas.

source http://www.arizonarestorationspecialists.com/what-causes-water-intrusion-in-phoenix-arizona

5 Things You Should Do Immediately After Water Damage, Phoenix Arizona

5 Things You Should Do Immediately After Water Damage, Phoenix Arizona

Flash floods are less common in Phoenix, Arizona, when compared to other cities in the country. However, when they do, they can cause losses and damages to properties, and if proper restoration services are not undertaken, your home can lose value or become inhabitable.

Although floods do not often occur in Phoenix, Arizona, up to 72,324 properties are at risk of flooding. It can result in damages and losses of millions of dollars. It is sometimes possible to predict how severe water damage may be as per weather forecasting reports, but this is not always the case.

Flooding mostly occurs between spring and fall. Although regional floods are not common in the Phoenix area, flash floods are common. Flash floods are sudden and, in most cases, unannounced, and they can last for hours.

Storm damage and flash floods are natural disasters that can damage your valuables, but disaster strikes in many ways. Burst pipes can also cause flooding in your house, thus damaging your belongings. That is why it is important to correct such issues before you discover that water leaked and destroyed valuable goods.

So what do you do when your house is flooded? What steps are vital to minimize water damage? Read on to find out the five essential steps you should take to ensure water damage is minimum.

Document and Assess

The first step you must take after a flood or water leak is to assess the situation calmly. Document the extent of water damage as you may need this information when calling insurance companies. 

Additionally, you can remove all the valuables above the water level and place them on higher ground. That way, you will protect them from further damage. You can take pictures that will be used as evidence in an insurance claim. Additionally, this will give you an idea of the best restoration service that will work for your needs.

Lastly, ensure that the floods have not swept any property on its way out of your home. Check the affected areas, such as water-damaged ceiling and asbestos removal.

Prioritize Electrical Safety and Safe keep The Valuables

Water and electricity do not mix well, and they can result in serious problems. Therefore when you notice the water is leaking from pipe bursts or due to a storm, wear protective gear and tread carefully through the water. Ensure that the main power switch in your home is switched off.

Additionally, make sure that the electrical appliances are unplugged and above the water level. Electricity can lead to fire; thus, you will have severe losses, so as you deal with water damage, ensure that your electric connection is switched off.        

              

Mitigate Mold Damage

The microorganisms that turn to mold are always in the air waiting for moisture to thrive. Therefore when your house becomes wetly flooded, you will notice mold colonies on the surfaces within 24 to 48 hours. That is why even if the water clears out on its own, your home is not yet safe because as long as the surfaces have moisture, mold will thrive.

That is why you need the best phoenix water damage and restoration company because they will provide water damage cleanup and ensure that your house is completely dry and mold-free.

Apart from getting water restoration services, you are guaranteed to get a partner who can also assist you if you need water inspection services, mold remediation, and smoke damage in the future.

Call Your Insurance Company

Many people dread calling insurance companies and the insurance claims procedures. However, in case of floods or water damage in your home, it is necessary to reach out to them to help you pay for water damage restoration in Phoenix.

 However, ensure that you have insurance cover for floods, hail damage, and water damage before making that call. If you are in an area with a high risk of flooding, it is a good idea to get flood insurance cover.

If these were not covered in your insurance cover, it is useless to call the company. However, it is important to ensure you have a water damage insurance cover if your property is at risk of flooding and water damage.

The company will also require you to give them details and documentation of flood and water damage to your Az home.

Call a Water Damage Restoration Specialist

Apart from causing severe illnesses, contaminated water from floods or burst pipes can destroy valuables in your Arizona home. Moreover, getting an expert restoration team whose response is timely and restoration services are efficient can be frustrating.

The good news is that Arizona restoration services are here for the needs of all sun city, phoenix mesa az, and all the surrounding towns. Our crew is trained and efficient in several restoration services.

We are a locally owned and operated restoration company , and thus, when you contact us with your issues, our response time is in minutes. By ensuring we respond when disaster strikes, we minimize the water damage on your property and valuables.

Additionally, we offer free phone consultation services, and we can give you a free quote so that you are aware of how much the whole process will cost. That way, you can budget your money wisely. We are experts. Our cleaning company will use water extraction methods that are efficient and safe for commercial properties or you as a business owner in the phoenix metro area and the surrounding areas. We will hold your hand for the entire process of flood damage and water damage restoration.

Contact us today for residential and commercial water damage restoration services in Phoenix.

source http://www.arizonarestorationspecialists.com/5-things-you-should-do-immediately-after-water-damage

5 Things You Should Do Immediately After Water Damage, Phoenix Arizona

Flash floods are less common in Phoenix, Arizona, when compared to other cities in the country. However, when they do, they can cause losses and damages to properties, and if proper restoration services are not undertaken, your home can lose value or become inhabitable.

Although floods do not often occur in Phoenix, Arizona, up to 72,324 properties are at risk of flooding. It can result in damages and losses of millions of dollars. It is sometimes possible to predict how severe water damage may be as per weather forecasting reports, but this is not always the case.

Flooding mostly occurs between spring and fall. Although regional floods are not common in the Phoenix area, flash floods are common. Flash floods are sudden and, in most cases, unannounced, and they can last for hours.

Storm damage and flash floods are natural disasters that can damage your valuables, but disaster strikes in many ways. Burst pipes can also cause flooding in your house, thus damaging your belongings. That is why it is important to correct such issues before you discover that water leaked and destroyed valuable goods.

So what do you do when your house is flooded? What steps are vital to minimize water damage? Read on to find out the five essential steps you should take to ensure water damage is minimum.

Document and Assess

The first step you must take after a flood or water leak is to assess the situation calmly. Document the extent of water damage as you may need this information when calling insurance companies. 

Additionally, you can remove all the valuables above the water level and place them on higher ground. That way, you will protect them from further damage. You can take pictures that will be used as evidence in an insurance claim. Additionally, this will give you an idea of the best restoration service that will work for your needs.

Lastly, ensure that the floods have not swept any property on its way out of your home. Check the affected areas, such as water-damaged ceiling and asbestos removal.

Prioritize Electrical Safety and Safe keep The Valuables

Water and electricity do not mix well, and they can result in serious problems. Therefore when you notice the water is leaking from pipe bursts or due to a storm, wear protective gear and tread carefully through the water. Ensure that the main power switch in your home is switched off.

Additionally, make sure that the electrical appliances are unplugged and above the water level. Electricity can lead to fire; thus, you will have severe losses, so as you deal with water damage, ensure that your electric connection is switched off. 

Mitigate Mold Damage

The microorganisms that turn to mold are always in the air waiting for moisture to thrive. Therefore when your house becomes wetly flooded, you will notice mold colonies on the surfaces within 24 to 48 hours. That is why even if the water clears out on its own, your home is not yet safe because as long as the surfaces have moisture, mold will thrive.

That is why you need the best phoenix water damage and restoration company because they will provide water damage cleanup and ensure that your house is completely dry and mold-free.

Apart from getting water restoration services, you are guaranteed to get a partner who can also assist you if you need water inspection services, mold remediation, and smoke damage in the future.

Call Your Insurance Company

Many people dread calling insurance companies and the insurance claims procedures. However, in case of floods or water damage in your home, it is necessary to reach out to them to help you pay for water damage restoration in Phoenix.

 However, ensure that you have insurance cover for floods, hail damage, and water damage before making that call. If you are in an area with a high risk of flooding, it is a good idea to get flood insurance cover.

If these were not covered in your insurance cover, it is useless to call the company. However, it is important to ensure you have a water damage insurance cover if your property is at risk of flooding and water damage.

The company will also require you to give them details and documentation of flood and water damage to your Az home.

Call a Water Damage Restoration Specialist

Apart from causing severe illnesses, contaminated water from floods or burst pipes can destroy valuables in your Arizona home. Moreover, getting an expert restoration team whose response is timely and restoration services are efficient can be frustrating.

The good news is that Arizona restoration services are here for the needs of all sun city, phoenix mesa az, and all the surrounding towns. Our crew is trained and efficient in several restoration services.

We are a locally owned and operated restoration company , and thus, when you contact us with your issues, our response time is in minutes. By ensuring we respond when disaster strikes, we minimize the water damage on your property and valuables.

Additionally, we offer free phone consultation services, and we can give you a free quote so that you are aware of how much the whole process will cost. That way, you can budget your money wisely. We are experts. Our cleaning company will use water extraction methods that are efficient and safe for commercial properties or you as a business owner in the phoenix metro area and the surrounding areas. We will hold your hand for the entire process of flood damage and water damage restoration.

Call us today for residential and commercial water damage restoration services in Phoenix.

source http://www.arizonarestorationspecialists.com/5-things-you-should-do-immediately-after-water-damage-phoenix-arizona

Water Damage Restoration Images - 4/8/2021

 

How a Mold Infestation Can Grow After Fire Damage to a Home or Business

Arizona Restoration Specialists, a Mesa, AZ, damage restoration company, warns homeowners that mold growth can occur after fire damage.

Arizona Restoration Specialists has served Mesa, AZ, and the Phoenix Valley area for over two decades with water damage restoration services. With crews on call around the clock 365 days a year, the company can respond within an hour to any water damage problem, including hidden water damage in the bathroom. A quick response is crucial because as minutes and hours pass, the water damage expands, and mold and mildew grow.

If a homeowner fails to detect a water leak in the bathroom and the leak goes untreated, the resulting damage to the ceiling, flooring, and walls can become extensive, causing repair costs to skyrocket. According to the U.S. Department of Energy , a leaky faucet wastes 259 gallons of water in one month. Imagine the damage that much water can do if it goes undetected and unrepaired.

Early detection of hidden water leaks and swift action to mitigate the leak and repair the damage can save thousands of dollars. Arizona Restoration Specialists offers these tips on how to detect hidden water leaks in the bathroom before the damage gets out of control.

Tip #1: Keep an eye out for mold and mildew.

If, after persistent cleaning of the bathroom, mold and mildew still appear, the cause may be a hidden water leak in the bathroom. A leaky pipe behind a wall, under a sink, or beneath the flooring provides mold with what it loves best — darkness, moisture, and warmth.

Some mildew in the corner of a shower is normal. However, mold or mildew on walls not affected by the shower could be a warning sign. Mildew and mold in corners away from the shower signal that water is leaking somewhere. Locating the source of the water and repairing the leak is of paramount importance. A leaking pipe provides plenty of moisture, so a delay in detecting and repairing the leak can substantially contribute to a mold infestation in the home.

Tip #2: Look up for ceiling stains.

A leak in the plumbing of an upstairs bathroom can reveal itself in the ceiling directly underneath the bathroom. Brown or copper-colored discolorations, stains, soft spots or sagging in the ceiling, or pooling water on the floor are telltale signs of an upstairs leak. Water can travel quite a distance before it finally escapes. Finding signs of moisture on the ceilings of adjacent rooms is possible.

Tip #3: Look down for any damaged flooring.

Bathroom flooring is designed to withstand higher moisture levels, so it seldom suffers from water damage unless there is a leak. Flooring that has buckled or that is cracked or stained for no obvious reason indicates there may be a hidden leak. The source could be a leaky pipe directly under the damaged flooring. The water might have traveled to the location from another area or room. Either way, the situation calls for immediate attention to stop the leak, prevent further damage, reduce the likelihood of a mold infestation, and repair the damage.

Tip #4: Look around for damage to walls.

Blistered paint or loose wallpaper may send the message that a bathroom leak has erupted. It takes more than steam from an occasional hot shower to compromise paint or wallpaper. Walls that develop stains or warping send a clear signal that there is a water leak.

Repairing the leak and the water damage to drywall often requires tearing out some or all of the affected drywall, which must be patched by a professional. While the inside of the wall is exposed, efforts to mitigate any mold growth may be needed.

Tip #5: Does the bathroom pass the “smell test?”



A musty, earthy smell in a freshly cleaned bathroom also indicates the strong possibility of a plumbing problem. Because the water is concealed in a wall, under a sink, or beneath the flooring, it never totally evaporates. The stagnant water will signal its presence with a strong, unpleasant odor.

Homeowners who have discovered a plumbing leak and bathroom water damage should reach out to Arizona Restoration Specialists. The property damage restoration company has served Mesa, AZ, and the Phoenix Valley area since 1999 with a menu of services including all facets of water damage and related problems such as mold removal and remediation, sewage cleanup, and repair/reconstruction. With crews on call around the clock, 365 days a year, they can respond on scene to any water damage issue within an hour. Every aspect of their work is fully guaranteed. Customers experience the best service in the restoration industry.

When it comes to water damage, act fast. Do not wait since the problem will only get worse over time. To learn more about water damage restoration in Phoenix, AZ , contact the office by phone at (602) 207-8529.

source http://www.arizonarestorationspecialists.com/how-a-mold-infestation-can-grow-after-fire-damage-to-a-home-or-business

How Mold Growth Can Cause Secondary Damage After a Housefire

 Arizona Restoration Specialists has served Mesa, AZ, and the Phoenix Valley area for more than twenty years with premier fire, water, and mold damage restoration services. With crews on call around the clock, 365 days a year, they can respond on the scene of any water damage problem in Phoenix within an hour. Their stable of services includes all aspects of water damage and related issues such as mold removal and remediation, sewage cleanup, and repair/reconstruction. All work is completely guaranteed. Clients will experience the finest customer service in the restoration industry. When it comes to fire and water damage, fast action is crucial since the problem will only worsen over time and may lead to mold infestation.

Staggering Statistics

According to the National Fire Protection Association, residential house fires accounted for more than one-fourth of all reported fires from 2014-2018. Fire departments responded to more than 353,000 fires each year during this period. The most common causes of residential fires include cooking, heating, electrical and lighting, arson, and smoking. Cooking fires are the most common cause of residential fires.

Most homeowners anticipate the possibility of a mold infestation in conjunction with water damage. However, many homeowners neglect to consider the high probability of mold damage after a house fire. This oversight could result in a serious mold infestation in the home.

How Mold Growth Can Occur After Fire Damage

In many instances, fire damage includes extensive water damage. When a house fire requires the services of the local fire department to extinguish the fire, hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water can be applied to the structure in a matter of minutes. The combination of fire and water can lead to mold infestation if the water is not immediately removed and the drying process implemented.

Why Mold Growth Accelerates After a House Fire

Fire-damaged homes are very susceptible to mold infestation. The fire department can pump thousands of gallons of water into a structure in minutes. Steam and fire extinguisher foam are also sources of moisture in a residential fire. After a house fire, conditions are perfect for mold growth, which can begin in as little as one or two days.

Industry experts explain: “Fires do create a secondary mold risk at a property. Extinguishing a fire, presuming it was extinguished with water, dumps a lot of water into and through the structure. That process, when the fire is in the upper part of the structure, in particular, sends a lot of water through lower ceilings and walls. Unless all of those areas are opened, gutted, dried, a future mold problem in those areas is a high risk.”

A One-Two Punch to Kill Mold: Dry and Disinfect the Affected Area

Drying a water-damaged area is insufficient to prevent mold growth in the future. Drying and dehumidifying the affected area will halt mold growth, but the drying process does not kill the existing mold. Mold can remain dormant in drywall, carpeting, and other porous materials for years.

The mold can reactivate and thrive when just a small amount of moisture or water is re-introduced to the spore-infested materials. A minor leak from an appliance, a leak between walls, or a recurring spill or leak on the carpet will reinvigorate the dormant mold. Once hydrated and activated, the mold may spread silently through the home undetected for months or years. Killing the mold during the fire and water damage restoration process is of utmost importance to prevent future mold outbreaks.

Fire and Water Restoration: Best if Left to the Pros!

Homeowners who attempt a DIY damage restoration project face two risks:

• Working too slowly to dry and disinfect the damaged area before mold begins to take hold
• Overlooking hidden or hard-to-reach areas with drying and disinfecting

Property damage restoration companies like Arizona Restoration Specialists are highly trained in safe mold cleanup techniques. The professionals have the industrial-strength, commercial-grade equipment to perform the water removal, drying, and dehumidifying extremely fast so the mold cannot begin its explosive growth. The expert cleaning technicians have access to the best and safest disinfectants that are friendly to the environment, furniture, humans, and pets. The restoration specialists have the skills and experience to know where to find hidden mold and moisture.

Arizona Restoration Specialists has served Mesa, AZ, and the Phoenix Valley area since 1999 with a menu of services including all facets of fire and water damage and related problems such as mold removal and remediation. With crews on call around the clock, 365 days a year, they can respond on scene to any water damage issue within an hour. Every aspect of their work is fully guaranteed. Customers experience the best service in the restoration industry.

When it comes to fire and water damage, act fast. Do not wait since the problem will only get worse over time. To learn more about mold removal in Mesa, AZ, call Arizona Restoration Specialists by phone at 602-497-4673.