Flood Damage vs Water Damage

Of all the possible catastrophes that can damage a house, floods are the least predictable in terms of the damage that they might cause. Some property owners have the ability to restore their houses even if they have to get rid of some furnishings, devices, and items such as rugs and drapes. Other house owners find themselves confronted with to hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs. Even then, mold might still grow behind walls and in other locations where water damage cannot quickly be seen.

Unfortunately, lots of people do not recognize that their homeowner's insurance coverage will not cover flood damage till it's far too late. While some of these property owners may qualify for catastrophe relief assistance or a bank loan, these sources of money frequently fall short of the actual expenses of making a terribly affected house safe, sanitary, and livable again.

Flood Damage vs Water Damage

For the functions of insurers, a flood is defined as a short-term rising of water on land that is usually dry, causing broad damage to numerous properties. Flooding can happen due to:

• The overrunning of a body of water, such as a river, ocean, or lake
• Heavy rains that cause water to flow into the basement of a home since of the soil's inability to absorb it quickly enough
• A mudslide triggered by heavy rains

The sort of water damage covered by the majority of house owner's insurance plan does not increase from the ground, but rather enters contact with the home before it hits the ground. For example, if a heavy rain causes water to seep through your roofing or water escapes into your home due to a burst pipe, the resulting damage will probably be covered by your house owner's insurance.

Where to Begin

Flood survivors are not required to wait on an inspection from the Federal Emergency Management Agency or their insurer to start cleaning up and make repairs. FEMA inspectors and insurance coverage claims adjusters will be able to verify flood damage after cleansing has begun.

It's essential for survivors to take pictures of any damage and keep recovery-related invoices. Insurer might require both products, while FEMA might require receipts.

Survivors should examine for structural damage prior to entering their homes and report any damage. They should likewise instantly get rid of damp items like bed linen, carpeting, and furnishings since of health problems that might emerge with mold.

Know Your Policy Terms

The vast majority of property owner's insurance coverage water damage and flood damage, covering losses caused by the previous and not by the latter.

If you live in a high-risk flood risk location and have a mortgage from a federally backed or guaranteed lender, then you already have flood insurance as a condition of your home mortgage. If, nevertheless, you do not have flood insurance, you might need to think about alternative ways of funding the flood repairs to your home.

Whatever the case, you ought to call your insurance coverage agent right away to discuss what is and exactly what is not covered by your insurance policy. Even if your policy does not cover flood damage, it may cover other damage sustained by your home during a flood, consisting of theft of individual products and damage triggered by electrical fires.

To emphasize it again, only flood insurance coverage will protect you from damage triggered by a flood.

Flood Cleanup Tips

Every year, floods kill more individuals than lightning, twisters and hurricanes combined. They can also ruin homes and businesses, requiring everything from new drywall and furnishings to completely brand-new structures.

If your house or business location has been flooded due to a natural disaster, your first concern is safety. Stay away from the location til government authorities state it's safe to return. When you can go back, take emergency materials and money with you. If you can get to a phone, call your insurance provider and, if essential, a flood and water damage restoration contractor.

Then, you can begin on examining the mess. Be careful with every step, since the threat of slips and falls is high. Also, be extremely mindful around appliances, gas lines and electrical devices. Using them too soon might trigger electrical shocks as well as surges. And remember that wet items can be extremely heavy. Don't injure yourself by overdoing it.

Where to Start When Inspecting Flood Damage

Your house and its contents might look beyond hope, but much of your valuables can be restored. If you do things right, your flooded home can be cleaned up, dried out, rebuilt, and reoccupied earlier than you think. While you are getting the job done ahead, you ought to remember these three essential points:

1. Play it safe. The risks are not over when the water goes down. Your home's foundation may have been damaged, the electrical system may have shorted out, and floodwaters might have left things that could make you sick. Many flooded items, such as wallboard and bed mattress, will hold mud and contamination permanently. When in doubt, throw it out. Don't risk injury or infection.

2. Request for aid. Lots of people can do a great deal of the clean-up and repair work talked about in this book. However if you have technical questions or do not feel comfy doing something, get expert help. If there is a federal catastrophe declaration, a telephone "hotline" will often be advertised to supply details about public, personal, and voluntary programs to help you recover from the flood. Federal government catastrophe programs are there to assist you, the taxpayer. You're paying for them; check them thoroughly.

3. Floodproof. It is highly probable that your house will be flooded again sooner or later. Floodproofing means utilizing products and practices that will avoid or reduce flood damage in the future. Numerous floodproofing methods are economical or can be easily integrated into your rebuilding program. You can save a great deal of money by floodproofing as you repair and restore. You need to also get ready for the next flood by buying flood insurance and writing a flood response strategy.

In Conclusion: Don't Underestimate Flood Damage

Don't underestimate flood water in unwanted locations: even if your basement only has an inch of water in it, or is just damp, it can provide the ideal breeding place for mold. Mold development not just ruins walls, furniture, carpets, flooring, etc., but it can also cause bad indoor air quality triggering respiratory problems including asthma, and can cause severe sickness. Avoiding mold development is essential to keeping your home's air clean and healthy. So after the location has dried out, especially wood beams, insulation, drywall, etc., utilize a good disinfectant to get rid of any germs that might have turned up through sewers, toilets, etc. Gloves Off Disinfectant, is a non-toxic but effective disinfectant. Disinfect all areas impacted by the flood waters consisting of walls and wood and non-upholstered furniture that were stained by flood water.

About Us

Utah Flood Cleanup is a 5-star disaster cleanup service centered in Ogden. We’ve been in business since 1992 and are available 24/7 for your damage restoration needs!

Common Septic Tank Problems and Solutions

What Is a Septic System?

A septic system is developed to consist of human biological waste up until it is either naturally broken down by bacterial action or is regularly drawn out from the tank by pumping. It works is by breaking down this waste material into three parts: Gases, Water, and Solids. The gases and water are gotten rid of into the environment of the tank, with the solid waste sinking to the bottom of the tank. This solid waste then needs to be drained routinely and efficiently to prevent common septic system issues.

A primary indication of problem connected to the septic tank is the emanation of foul smell. While there might be a number of triggers for this bad smell, the common measure for all factors is permitting the sewage-disposal tank to manage wastes that it is not truly designed to deal with. This can include kitchen area wastes, extreme amounts of water, laundry and dishwashing outputs as well as plastic and other non-biodegradable items. If you’re in need of sewage cleanup services, contact the professionals at Utah Flood Cleanup today.

Common Septic Tank Issues

Too Much Water in the Tank

Overuse or abuse of water can make the tank hold more water than its capability. This leads to the solid wastes not breaking down and settling prior to the water level in the tank increases. With the increase in water level, solid matter passes through the circulation channels that are constructed only to deal with liquids. This concern can likewise aggravate and contribute to the troubles of septic tank problems when it rains.

This issue can be handled by being more mindful about water use. For example, people can practice taking shorter showers or utilizing low flow showerheads to manage water usage. Also, it is recommended to spread out laundry over a couple of days rather than doing too many loads on the exact same day.

Flushing Non-Biodegradable Products

Plastic and comparable products not only use up area in the tank, but do not break down naturally. This build-up also raises the water level in the tank along with pushing solid matter into the circulation system.

The apparent solution for appropriate septic system treatment is to avoid letting non-biodegradable products from getting in the septic system. Avoid putting cooking fats down the drain while also keeping items like diapers, feminine hygiene products and paper towels out of the system.

Using Too Much Detergent

Overuse of laundry and other powdered cleaning agents presents the possibility of residue accumulation in the pipelines and tank. Plus, the phosphate content in these items promotes algae growth which can obstruct spaces in the distribution pipelines.

Avoid utilizing powdered cleaning agents while also monitoring the quantity of detergent used. Rather, it is advised to use gel or liquid soaps for laundering, as these do not have phosphates discovered in their powdered counterparts.

Usage of Harsh Chemicals

Sewage-disposal tanks typically have to handle chemical items such as pesticides, solvents, brake fluid, paint thinners and motor oil among others. When put in the septic system equation, these products are dispersed into the surrounding soil not only contaminating it, but likewise making it inappropriate for plant life. These products also have the prospective to target bacteria in the tank that is otherwise needed for breaking down the waste matter.

The solution for correct septic tank upkeep once again demands a change in routine by making sure to not put any harmful products like paint thinners and solvents into the septic tank. Since these items will not be removed, they will only be distributed into the soil triggering contamination and environmental hazards.

Septic Filter Clogging

This is a typical issue that takes place when the septic filter is not effectively cleaned up on a regular basis. Tell-tale signs of a blocked filter consist of slow drainage in the structure, high effluent levels in the tank, and the surrounding drain field being abnormally dry.

It is crucial to have the septic tank on your property pumped out on a regular basis to make sure that it works to its optimal potential. Systems that come with a filter require professionals to take a look at it every number of years and tidy it with grade quality biological cleaner instead of using severe chemicals.

Utah Flood Cleanup

For any of sewage-disposal tank issues, contact Utah Flood Cleanup for quick and timely service and upkeep of your septic tank system. Our 24/7 emergency line (801-876-5225) makes sure that we can assist you with problems no matter the time of day.

Fire Damage Restoration for Utah Businesses

If you're like the majority of small business owners, your company is your livelihood. Safeguarding your company and all that it requires to run it is critical. Oftentimes, much effort goes into crisis prevention, but little is done to plan for healing. Here, you'll find helpful tips and details to assist your small business not just avoid but recuperate from a fire.

Fire Damage

Fires can typically be underestimated, as they start small but have the possible to grow massive in a brief expanse of time. The damage caused by a fire is usually two-fold. Clearly, flames take in everything they touch, minimizing objects to ash and corrupting the stability of larger structures. Few individuals, however, think about just how much damage can potentially take place as an outcome of smoke.

Smoke is brought in to cool areas and rises, so it takes a trip through vents, pipes, and any other openings in order to ascend and damage higher locations. Smoke from fire causes two main problems: odors and soot stains. Anything left untouched by flame is often rendered useless by smoke in one of these 2 ways. First, any exposed walls, floorings, or furnishings can be stained by soot. Second, everything else is most likely to be ruined by the odor of smoke. Things like carpet and upholstery trap and take in the dreadful odor, and it's very hard to completely rid furniture, computers, art-- even the structure itself-- of the remaining smell.

Furthermore, in some cases hazardous chemicals are produced as a result of various products responding together when heated by fire. Part of your healing strategy ought to include a screen for hazardous chemicals prior to any form of fire restoration is attempted.

Office Fire Prevention

The very best method to protect your small business from fire damage is to be familiar with prospective fire risks and take the required safety measures making sure a preventable fire does not ruin your business. Undoubtedly, calling a regional authority on fire security for suggestions specific to your business is a terrific first step. Small company owners should also consider working carefully with a fire remediation or catastrophe prevention specialist.

The two most common sources of a fire in an office are two basic ones to prevent in the very first place. First, do not keep candles at the office. These are well-known fire starters. Second, do not overload the electrical system in the structure. Usage surge protectors and numerous outlines to avoid producing a fire threat.

Fire Insurance Coverage

Fire insurance is a must. The majority of home insurance plan cover loss in case of fire but frequently not enough to cover all damages. Know what your policy covers, and constantly insure for 100% of business value. Make a point to review your policy every year, and use an independent appraiser to examine the business's value each year. If you have to, add additional fire coverage to your policy. Never settle for partial protection simply to pay lower premiums because if you ever do come down with fire damage, you'll be exceptionally sorry.

Also note that specific belongings and files will not be covered under the policy, so you'll need to insure these items individually. If you're particularly worried, make a video of the building, home, and prized possessions in case you'll have to contest any claims for losses. Additionally, if your business is located in an older center, think about adding protection for restoring according to current codes.

Fire Damage Recovery

Lastly, in case of a small business disaster, like a fire, it is essential to have a catastrophe recovery strategy. Normally, this is an officially drafted plan detailing the steps taken after the occurrence of a disaster. These plans usually include detailed contact info for workers, clients, and suppliers; alternative techniques and locations for performing company; and any important resources to be recuperated.

Particularly, in the event of a fire, business need to work closely with a catastrophe recovery service prior to and after the fire. This not just ensures the business takes proper safety measures to avoid such an event however greatly assists the procedure of recovery.

If you are ever in a situation where you encounter a fire first-hand, respond rapidly and calmly. For small fires, find the closest fire extinguisher and usage as guided. Instantly call 9-1-1. If the fire is beyond your capability to control, leave the area quickly and securely, and once again, alert local fire and rescue systems as quickly as possible.

If your home or business is in have to smoke or fire restoration, contact Utah Flood Cleanup today. Our experts can discuss what services you'll need in complimentary assessment and examination, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Dryer Vent Cleaning Services Utah

As we go on through our daily lives, we seldom think about the significance of clearing out the dryer vent. Why would we? It does not directly influence our lives but it is in fact an important part of being a responsible homeowner: It is a way of safeguarding your household from possible tragedy.

Trying to keep your home well-maintained is a top priority, and the crew at Utah Flood Cleanup is here to assist you with one of the more necessary parts of home servicing: dryer vent cleaning. This is a frequently forgotten but very important action to keeping your home safe. Clothing dryer vents that are full of lint can cause fires and much higher power bills. Keep your house and family safe with frequent duct cleanup from your reliable Utah dryer vent cleaning team.

What Are Some Indicators I Should Clean My Dryer Vent?

The function of a dryer air vent is to transport hot air from the dryer away from the house. There is a tube which runs inside the wall of your house in between the back of the dryer unit to the exterior wall of the home. Gradually, lint and various other particles can steadily gather in the dryer vent and block it.

Indications your dryer vent needs cleaning include having to run the dryer numerous cycles just to dry a single load of laundry; this indicates the vent is clogged or dirty with particles. You may even notice that the ground outside the air vent is covered up with dust, which in turn indicates the need for urgent vent maintenance.

Why Should I Clean My Dryer Vent?

The dryer vent can become plugged with lint, dust, dirt and fiber cloth over a reasonably short amount of time. According to The Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are tens of thousands of dryer fires yearly, causing several injuries or fatalities, as a result of dryer exhaust duct fires. You should clean your dryer hose and around it yearly, and assess the vent and hose for any blockages at least every 6 months. It might only take roughly a year for this accumulation to become major enough to produce a fire in your home. Truthfully, a clogged duct has the potential to burn your house down to the ground.

It is suggested that the vents be cleaned out at the very least once a year by a qualified dryer vent cleaning business, and even better to have it done it twice a year. Not only will your dryer operate more effectively, but you will be protecting yourself and your household.

Contact Utah Flood Cleanup to Handle Your Dryer Vent Cleaning 

Just one telephone call to a dryer vent cleaning company like Utah Flood Cleanup is all it takes to bring a proficient professional to your home to do a quick evaluation and clean-up. It is well worth the time and money invested knowing that a fire is much less likely to take place.

Connect with us here, or call 801-416-2666 and let the specialists to protect your family and house to get ultimate assurance.

Effects Of Flooding On Your Walls

When there's a flood in your house, whether it was caused by nature or a broken pipe, your walls are going to get wet. While furniture and belongings are relatively easy to deal with-- even if that means throwing some away-- walls are a lot harder to take care of properly.

However, there are some things you should do to combat water damage, provided that you act quickly. Letting walls stay wet for over a day or two can be the difference between an inconvenience and a major repair.

Identifying Moisture In Walls

The reason walls suffer water damage is different for each property. For some, it may be because of faulty piping, an ineffective plumbing system, broken appliances, broken vents or even malfunctioning bathroom fixtures. For others the reason for damp walls may be external factors including severe weather, heavy rain or flooding.

The first visible indication of moisture in walls is the appearance of damp patches, blotches or streaks on the walls. A lot of these darkened spots can range from brown hues to dark yellow, often dictating the reason for the moisture.

Other signs of water damaged walls can include peeling paint, discoloration, crumbling, cracking and hanging of drywall tape. These moisture stains may be the result of substances in the drywall and plaster leaching to the surface. If left untreated, the unsightly patches can also develop a musty odor.

When moisture penetrates the walls from above, faults in the structure of the roof including missing or damaged tiles, inferior flashing or cracked gutters and drainpipes can be responsible. Since these areas are all located outside the structure, they are not too hard to spot and address. Damp patches resulting from leaks can also happen with faulty plumbing work fixed in the walls or even from badly sealed bathrooms.

Containing The Problem

The first step in containing and correcting moisture in walls is to visually inspect all of the walls to evaluate the exact amount of water damage. Since acceptable moisture levels vary according to the type of wall material, using a wall moisture meter can help. The device is designed to carry out a more intensive inspection of moisture levels to identify the extent of the damage.

The next step involves locating the cause of the water damage and start appropriate repairs to make sure that the damage does not spread to other areas of the property. Because building materials will absorb different levels of moisture content, wall moisture readings yielded from the moisture meter can help in determining the saturation levels within the walls. However, it is essential to identify the reason for the moisture before attempting to correct it.

Air Dry The Walls

When walls are damp but haven't been like that for more than just a day, your best option for reducing water damage is to allow air in from outside. Air circulation will help to make your walls dry faster than they would on their own. Another thing you can do to help your walls dry is to use a box or industrial fans. Point them toward the wet walls and leave them on at least 48 hours. If your walls have been wet for more than three days, you will more than likely have to begin the process of removing the wet drywall.

Contact Utah Flood Cleanup

While this is something you are able to do by yourself, it's best to leave it to professionals. Contact Utah Flood Cleanup in the event of flooding or water damage, not only to address the immediate issue, but to prevent the long-term effects, such as structural damage and mold. Call us at 801-416-2666 or contact us on our website for a free consultation.