Blog & Restoration Tips

Warning Signs to Watch For:

• Discoloration and Stains: Yellow, brown, or copper-colored stains on ceilings, walls, or floors indicate water infiltration
• Musty Odors: A persistent damp or earthy smell often means hidden moisture and potential mold growth
• Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: When water seeps behind surfaces, it causes bubbling, cracking, or peeling
• Warped or Buckled Floors: Wood and laminate floors absorb moisture and deform when exposed to water
• Soft or Sagging Drywall: Water-saturated drywall loses structural integrity and feels soft to the touch
• Mold Growth: Visible mold spots, especially in corners or along baseboards, indicate ongoing moisture problems
• Increased Water Bills: Unexplained spikes in water usage often signal hidden leaks
• Running Water Sounds: Hearing water when no fixtures are in use suggests pipe leaks in walls
• Damaged Grout or Caulking: Deteriorating bathroom seals allow water to penetrate behind tiles
• Rust or Corrosion: Visible rust on pipes, fixtures, or hardware indicates chronic moisture exposure

⚠️ Take Action: If you notice any of these signs, call Approved Restorations immediately at 1-833-REST0RE. Early detection can save thousands in repair costs and prevent extensive structural damage.

Critical Fire Prevention & Response:

• Smoke Detector Placement: Install detectors on every floor, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. Test monthly and replace batteries twice yearly
• Keep Fire Extinguishers Accessible: Place ABC-rated extinguishers in the kitchen, garage, and near fireplaces. Know how to use them: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
• Create Escape Plans: Establish two exits from every room and practice your escape route with family members twice yearly
• Kitchen Fire Prevention: Never leave cooking unattended, keep flammable items away from the stove, and clean grease buildup regularly
• Electrical Safety: Don't overload outlets, replace frayed cords immediately, and use surge protectors for electronics
• Heating Equipment Safety: Keep space heaters 3 feet from combustibles, have furnaces serviced annually, and never use your oven to heat your home
• Smoking Safety: Smoke outside only, use deep ashtrays, and never smoke in bed or when drowsy
• Candle Precautions: Keep candles in sturdy holders, never leave burning candles unattended, and extinguish before leaving rooms

After a Fire - First 48 Hours:

• Ensure Safety First: Wait for fire department clearance before re-entering your home
• Contact Your Insurance: Report the fire immediately and document all damage with photos
• Prevent Further Damage: Professional board-up and tarping services protect against weather and theft
• Don't Clean Soot Yourself: Improper cleaning can permanently damage surfaces; leave it to professionals

🔥 Fire Damage Emergency? Call Approved Restorations 24/7 at 1-833-REST0RE. We provide emergency board-up, soot removal, odor elimination, and complete fire restoration services.

Critical 24-48 Hour Window:

Why Act Fast: Mold spores are everywhere, but they need moisture to grow. Once materials stay wet for 24-48 hours, mold colonization begins. Quick action is essential!

Immediate Steps to Prevent Mold:

• Remove Standing Water: Extract water within the first few hours using wet vacuums, pumps, or professional equipment
• Increase Air Circulation: Open windows (if weather permits), use fans, and run HVAC systems to promote drying
• Use Dehumidifiers: Reduce indoor humidity to below 50% to inhibit mold growth
• Remove Wet Materials: Discard porous items like carpet padding, insulation, and drywall that can't be dried within 48 hours
• Clean and Disinfect: Wash hard surfaces with detergent and water, then disinfect with appropriate solutions
• Monitor Humidity Levels: Use a hygrometer to ensure levels stay below 60% during drying

What NOT to Do:

• ❌ Don't use bleach on porous materials - it doesn't kill mold roots
• ❌ Don't paint or caulk over moldy surfaces - it will return
• ❌ Don't ignore hidden moisture in walls and under floors
• ❌ Don't assume dry surfaces mean no mold - check hidden areas

🦠 Mold Prevention Experts: Approved Restorations uses industrial dehumidifiers, air movers, and moisture meters to ensure complete drying. We treat affected areas with antimicrobial solutions to prevent mold growth. Call 1-833-REST0RE within 24 hours of water damage.

Before Storm Season - Prevention Checklist:

• Roof Inspection: Check for loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing, and clear all debris from gutters and downspouts
• Tree Maintenance: Trim dead branches that could fall on your home, especially those within 10 feet of the structure
• Window Protection: Install storm shutters or have plywood pre-cut and labeled for each window
• Secure Outdoor Items: Anchor or store patio furniture, grills, decorations, and trash cans
• Check Drainage: Ensure downspouts extend at least 5 feet from your foundation and grade slopes away from your home
• Inspect Siding: Repair loose or damaged siding that could allow water infiltration
• Test Sump Pump: Verify your sump pump works and consider a battery backup system

Essential Emergency Supplies (72-Hour Kit):

• Water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable food and manual can opener
• Flashlights, batteries, and battery-powered radio
• First aid kit and necessary medications
• Important documents in waterproof container
• Cash (ATMs may not work)
• Phone chargers and portable power banks
• Blankets, extra clothing, and sturdy shoes

When Storm Warning Issued:

• Fill bathtubs and containers with water (in case supply is contaminated)
• Charge all devices and power banks
• Move valuables to upper floors if flooding expected
• Take photos/video of your property for insurance
• Know your evacuation route and shelter locations

⛈️ Storm Damage? After severe weather, call Approved Restorations at 1-833-REST0RE for emergency tarping, water extraction, and storm damage restoration. We work with your insurance to get your home back to normal fast.

Spring Maintenance (March-May):

• Inspect Roof: Check for winter damage, loose shingles, and damaged flashing around chimneys and vents
• Clean Gutters: Remove debris, check for leaks, and ensure downspouts direct water away from foundation
• Check Grading: Ensure ground slopes away from foundation (minimum 6 inches over 10 feet)
• Test Sump Pump: Pour water into pit to verify operation before rainy season
• Inspect Windows/Doors: Check caulking and weatherstripping for gaps
• Service HVAC: Have air conditioning professionally serviced and check condensate drain

Summer Maintenance (June-August):

• Monitor Humidity: Keep indoor levels between 30-50% to prevent mold
• Check Appliances: Inspect washing machine hoses, refrigerator water lines, and dishwasher connections
• Inspect Deck/Patio: Look for water pooling that could damage foundation
• Test Water Heater: Drain sediment and check for leaks or corrosion

Fall Maintenance (September-November):

• Clean Gutters Again: Remove fallen leaves to prevent ice dams and overflow
• Winterize Exterior Faucets: Drain and shut off outdoor water sources
• Insulate Pipes: Protect pipes in unheated areas (attics, crawl spaces, garages)
• Check Basement: Look for cracks in foundation and seal with hydraulic cement
• Service Furnace: Professional inspection prevents carbon monoxide issues and ensures efficiency

Winter Maintenance (December-February):

• Prevent Ice Dams: Keep attic cool (below 30°F) with proper insulation and ventilation
• Protect Pipes: Let faucets drip during extreme cold, keep cabinet doors open under sinks
• Clear Snow: Remove heavy snow from roof to prevent structural damage and leaks
• Monitor for Leaks: Check ceilings and walls for water stains after snow/ice events

🏠 Found Water Damage? Don't wait! Small leaks become big problems. Call Approved Restorations at 1-833-REST0RE for professional water damage assessment and repair.

What's Typically Covered:

• Sudden & Accidental Damage: Burst pipes, appliance malfunctions, roof leaks from storms
• Sudden Discharge: Water heater failures, washing machine hose bursts, toilet overflows
• Accidental Overflow: Bathtub or sink overflow due to a specific incident
• Weather-Related: Wind-driven rain through damaged roof or siding, ice dam damage
• HVAC Leaks: Air conditioning condensation line failures

What's Typically NOT Covered:

• Flood Damage: Rising water from outside requires separate flood insurance
• Gradual Leaks: Slow leaks that develop over time due to lack of maintenance
• Sewer Backup: Requires separate sewer backup endorsement (usually $50-100/year)
• Poor Maintenance: Damage from neglected repairs or worn-out systems
• Mold: Often limited or excluded, especially if related to maintenance issues
• Ground Water: Water seeping through foundation from saturated soil

Proper Documentation - Essential Steps:

1. Take Photos & Video Immediately: Document all damage before cleanup begins
2. Save Damaged Items: Don't throw anything away until adjuster sees it
3. Keep All Receipts: Emergency repairs, hotel stays, meals, replacement items
4. Make Temporary Repairs: Prevent further damage (covered by most policies) but document before and after
5. Create Inventory: List all damaged items with approximate value and purchase date
6. Keep Communication Log: Note all calls to insurance with date, time, and who you spoke with

Working with Your Insurance:

• Report Immediately: Most policies require prompt reporting (within 48-72 hours)
• Understand Your Deductible: You'll pay this amount before insurance coverage kicks in
• Get Professional Estimates: Restoration companies provide detailed scope of work for adjusters
• Don't Accept First Offer: Review the estimate carefully and negotiate if needed
• Know Replacement vs. Actual Cash Value: Understand which coverage you have

📋 Insurance Claims Assistance: Approved Restorations works directly with insurance companies daily. We provide detailed documentation, communicate with adjusters, and help maximize your claim. Call 1-833-REST0RE for expert claims support.

Why Pipes Freeze & Burst:

When water freezes, it expands by about 9%, creating pressure of 40,000+ PSI inside pipes. This pressure causes pipes to crack or burst, often at joints. When the ice melts, water floods your home.

High-Risk Areas:

• Exterior walls with poor insulation
• Unheated crawl spaces and attics
• Garage walls, especially if attached
• Kitchen and bathroom cabinets on exterior walls
• Outdoor faucets and hose bibs

Prevention Strategies:

• Insulate Pipes: Use foam pipe insulation on all exposed pipes in unheated areas (minimum R-3 rating)
• Seal Air Leaks: Caulk around pipes where they enter through walls, especially rim joists
• Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Drain and store hoses, shut off and drain outdoor faucets
• Maintain Heat: Keep thermostat at 55°F minimum, even when away
• Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes under sinks on exterior walls
• Let Faucets Drip: When temperatures drop below 20°F, let cold water drip from faucets served by exposed pipes
• Add Heat Tape: Use UL-listed heat tape on vulnerable pipes, following manufacturer instructions exactly

If Pipes Freeze - Immediate Action:

1. Shut Off Main Water: Know where your main shut-off valve is located
2. Open Faucet: Turn on both hot and cold to relieve pressure and allow water to flow when thawed
3. Apply Heat Gradually: Use hair dryer, heating pad, or towels soaked in hot water - NEVER use open flame, propane torch, or high heat
4. Start from Faucet: Work backward toward the frozen area to allow steam/water to escape
5. Check All Faucets: If one pipe froze, others might too
6. Call a Plumber: If you can't locate the freeze or thaw the pipe yourself

Signs of Frozen Pipes:

• No water or reduced flow from faucets
• Frost on exposed pipes
• Strange smells from drains or faucets
• Unusual sounds when turning on water

❄️ Burst Pipe Emergency? Shut off water immediately and call Approved Restorations 24/7 at 1-833-REST0RE. We provide emergency water extraction, structural drying, and complete restoration. Average burst pipe causes $5,000-$70,000 in damage - minutes matter!

Why Speed Matters:

The First Hour is Critical: Water spreads quickly through porous materials. Within minutes, water soaks into floors, walls, and furnishings. Within hours, drywall begins to swell, metal surfaces tarnish, and mold begins to develop. Every minute counts!

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

• Electrical Hazards: If water is near electrical outlets, breaker boxes, or appliances, turn off power at the main breaker. Never enter standing water with power on.
• Structural Concerns: Look for sagging ceilings, bulging walls, or weakened floors. If structure seems compromised, evacuate and call professionals.
• Contaminated Water: Sewage backup or flood water contains dangerous bacteria. Wear protective gear and avoid contact.

Step 2: Stop the Water Source

• Turn off water supply at source (under sink, behind toilet, or main shut-off)
• If source is unknown or can't be stopped, turn off main water supply
• For appliance leaks (washing machine, dishwasher), turn off water supply and power to unit
• For roof leaks, place buckets and tarp furniture until repairs can be made

Step 3: Document Everything

• Immediate Photos/Video: Document ALL damage before touching anything - this is crucial for insurance
• Multiple Angles: Take wide shots showing entire affected areas, plus close-ups of specific damage
• Timestamp Evidence: Most phones automatically timestamp photos - keep these for claims
• Document Source: Photograph what caused the water damage
• Create Inventory: List all affected items with descriptions and estimated values

Step 4: Remove Standing Water

• Small Amounts: Use towels, mops, and wet/dry vacuum for minor water
• Significant Water: Call professionals with industrial extraction equipment - DIY attempts often leave too much moisture
• Save Wet Items: Don't throw anything away yet (insurance needs to see it), but move to dry area if possible
• Lift Furniture: Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent stains and further damage

Step 5: Call Your Insurance AND a Professional

• Report to Insurance Immediately: Most policies require notification within 48-72 hours
• Get Claim Number: Record your claim number, adjuster name, and contact information
• Call Restoration Professionals: Don't wait for insurance approval - preventing further damage is usually covered
• Professional Assessment: Experts have moisture meters and thermal imaging to find hidden water

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• ❌ Waiting to see if it dries on its own - mold starts in 24-48 hours
• ❌ Using household fans only - not powerful enough for thorough drying
• ❌ Throwing away damaged items before insurance sees them
• ❌ Attempting major cleanup yourself - hidden moisture causes future problems
• ❌ Not checking walls, insulation, and subfloors - water travels

🚨 Water Damage Emergency - Call NOW: Approved Restorations responds within 60 minutes, 24/7/365. We handle everything: water extraction, structural drying, mold prevention, content restoration, and insurance coordination. Call 1-833-REST0RE immediately - the faster we respond, the less damage occurs and the lower your costs!