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Fire and Smoke Damage Repair Costs in Tuscaloosa, AL 2019

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 14:25:55 GMT

Not only can a fire in your Tuscaloosa, AL home be a major upheaval for you and your family, but the smoke and fire damage can be a major cleanup project. It is important for you to understand what the costs can be in your area for a fire restoration project.

The Cost of Fire Damage Restoration in Tuscaloosa

After a home fire, one of the first questions people ask is, “How much do fire damage repairs cost?” The cost of cleaning up fire and smoke damage ranges widely from city-to-city, and fire cleanup costs in Tuscaloosa, AL will depend on several factors. It will be difficult for any fire damage restoration professionals to give you an estimate over the phone.

Several variables make it difficult to give a range for fire damage repair costs here in Tuscaloosa . For this reason, fire restoration experts typically won’t offer quotes on the phone. Instead they will inspect the property and survey the damage, and at that point they can offer you a free estimate at your home with no obligation on your part.

Fire Damage Restoration Cost Estimates

The average cost nationally for fire damage restoration is $13,177, but your actual costs can range widely from as low as $3,000 up to $27,000, depending on the severity of the damage. In situations involving the whole loss of a house, the cost could even exceed $100,000. Though we can give you approximate estimates for fire damage repair and cleanup, note that if you have the right insurance, they will cover some or all of the cost for the cleanup and restoration process.

Here in the Tuscaloosa area, the average price of cleaning up fire and smoke damage ranges widely. Fire damage restoration costs in Tuscaloosa will depend on several factors, such as the extent of the fire damage, the extent of the water damage from the fire department and any chemical repairs that need to happen from the use of extinguishers, as well as the extent of the soot and smoke damage.

The Average Fire Damage Remediation Costs in Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa, AL Average: $2,228

Tuscaloosa Typical Range: $2,168-$2,228

Tuscaloosa Low End to High End: $2,168-$2,289

* Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by restoration experts in Tuscaloosa, AL .

Fire Damage National Average Cost Breakdown

Fire Hose Water Cleanup Costs: $1,100–$4,000

Fire Extinguisher Chemical Cleanup Costs: $1,000–$3,000

Soot Removal Cleanup Costs: $2,500–$6,500

Textile & Furniture Deodorizing Costs: $250–$1,000

Ozone Smoke Treatment Costs: $200–$500

Your Insurance’s Fire Damage Restoration Policies

The Common Causes of Mold in Tuscaloosa, AL Homes

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 11:26:30 GMT

As anybody living in Tuscaloosa can tell you, the weather here can get quite humid. And humidity means mold. If you think that mold is just a minor inconvenience and you can remove it yourself, think again! Mold growth is known to produce allergens and irritants and can result in serious health problems if left unchecked. It contributes to countless cases of illness annually, including respiratory concerns, asthma, and even rashes and skin irritation.

So, is it time to pack up and move out? The good news is that you don't have to! Mold is entirely treatable, and you just need to call the experts at Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa , and we'll take care of the rest! But if you're wondering what causes mold in the first place, we've got you covered.

What is mold anyway?

Mold is an entirely natural part of the world. Microscopic mold spores exist almost everywhere, outdoors and indoors. These spores don't generally affect humans, but when exposed to humidity and dampness, they can multiply quickly and infest your house or business. Thankfully, most molds smell awful, so it's easy to know when mold growth is taking place on your property. So if you're smelling a musty, damp odor coming from your floorboards and walls, know that it's time to call the expert team at Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa!

What causes mold?

It all comes down to humidity. Any amount of dampness or moisture will encourage mold growth. If the weather's been humid for a while, you might notice mold starting to grow on walls, benches, and other surfaces because of the wet air. This also happens if it has been raining for a few days. Some other common reasons for mold growth in Tuscaloosa are listed below.

Wet Clothes

Drying your clothes in a dryer instead of outside releases a large amount of moisture into your home, especially when the dryer's vent is not situated outside. Even if you forgo the dryer and hang the clothes on a line or rack, make sure that they're not inside, as that can also result in moisture building up!

Poor Ventilation

Poorly ventilated homes are prone to mold, as the stagnant air inside helps the mold to thrive. Without proper ventilation, wet surfaces dry out more slowly. These wet surfaces can, in turn, create mold growth of their own.

Flooding

Water damage due to a flood is bad enough, but it is also likely to lead to a mold infestation. After the flood has passed, the house will take a long time to dry out, sometimes days and weeks. Mold, on the other hand, only needs 24 hours to grow into a problem. So if your house recently suffered from a flood, make sure to get it checked by mold removal experts!

If you notice mold growing on your property in Tuscaloosa, AL, don't hesitate to call (205) 216-5908 . Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa provides expert mold remediation services at affordable prices!

Understanding the Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Process

Tue, 20 Aug 2019 00:00:00 GMT

No one is ever fully prepared for a fire. Sure, you can take steps to reduce the fire hazards in your home, which is something we highly recommend doing, but the actual blaze is far more chaotic and stressful than most imagine. Many homeowners lose hope after a fire. Despite the severity, it’s not the end of the road. The fire & smoke damage restoration process from a trusted, local restoration company can help put your home back on the right track. Before long, you’ll feel comfortable in your home without worrying about smoke contaminants in the air or embers in the kitchen.

The Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Process, Step-by-Step

Step 1: Emergency Contact

The entire process starts and ends with you. After the fire department has left the scene, pick up the phone and call your local restoration company. They offer 24-hour emergency fire damage restoration and can arrive within an hour.

Step 2: Assessment

Before the actual restoration process can begin, a full assessment must be performed. The technicians need to better understand the source of the fire and the damage it caused to each room.

Step 3: Mitigation

A lot of times, embers and smoke left behind by the fire continue damaging the property and tainting the air. The team will seal up affected rooms, remove smoldering embers, and take further steps to mitigate damage.

Step 4: Cleanup

Next, the process focuses on cleaning as much of the fire damage as possible, including smoke, soot, dust, and the water left behind by the fire department. At the same time, foul odors caused by the fire will be treated.

Step 5: Restoration

The next stage is the restoration and repair of furniture, building materials, and possessions damaged by the fire. For example, if your kitchen cabinets were destroyed, they’ll be replaced with new ones.

Step 6: Consultation

Once the restoration process is complete, the certified technicians will consult with you personally. They’ll go over how to prevent another fire, how to find the best smoke detectors, and how to be better prepared for fire damage in the future.

Common Household Fire Hazards

If you can reduce the number of fire hazards in your home, you’ll find that the risk of a fire is greatly decreased. You’ll be safer overall.

Cooking – In the kitchen, leaving an oven mitt or wooden spoon too close to a lit stove top is a serious fire hazard, as is leaving the stove unattended.
Heating – During the winter, try to keep space heaters well away from furniture or flammable objects.
Candles – A lit candle can be a fire hazard if left to burn for too long or left unattended for long periods.

The fire & smoke damage restoration process is best performed by professionals. Let Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa tackle fire and smoke damage in your home. Call 205-632-7222 for emergency fire damage restoration.

Knowing the Odors in Your Tuscaloosa Home — Signs You Need to Hire a Mold Removal Professional

Tue, 16 Jul 2019 07:19:30 GMT

A lot of homeowners, perhaps yourself included, are all about saving a dollar and opting for DIY mold removal. When it comes to mold in your home, however, don’t skimp. Don’t avoid hiring an expert who is guaranteed to resolve the problem just because you want to avoid the bill. If you start noticing that telltale odor — you know the one — then it’s likely you have mold. If you do have mold, it will spread soon, and you’ll start coughing, sneezing and scratching at your throat. Instead, at the first sign of a musty, mildew odor, schedule professional mold remediation . The service you receive from a local restoration company is sure to resolve your mold issues.

Signs You Need Mold Removal

Mold is a completely natural part of the world. It’s in almost every biome on the planet in some form or another. In our homes, there are very specific types of mold spores floating about. These spores generally do not affect humans.

However, with the addition of recent w ater damage , high humidity, or moisture, those mold spores will rapidly multiply. They settle under your flooring, or in a dark corner, and begin to consume organic material and reproduce. Before long, you have a mold infestation.

Thankfully, most mold produces a foul, musty odor. It’s a sure sign of a mold infestation – the stronger the smell, the closer you are. There are other signs that you need to hire a mold removal professional, though.

Musty Odors – The first and, arguably, the most vital sign of a mold infestation is the musty odor you’ll notice. Most types of mold, especially with moisture in the area, produce a musty smell when indoors.
Standing Water – If you spot any amount of standing water, especially in a dark area of the house, then chances are mold is nearby, too.
Humidity – It’s best to keep your home’s humidity levels below 60 percent at all times. Any higher and you risk mold growing in unseen spots.
Discoloration – The discoloration caused by mold is generally varied but may appear as a white, gray, brown, red, or even black fuzzy or slimy patch.
Allergies – If anyone in your home has allergies already, they can be exacerbated by the presence of mold in the house. The symptoms of mold exposure even mimic allergies or asthma, such as congestion, itchy throat, breathing difficulties, headaches, and skin irritation.

If you notice the signs of mold in your home, please do not hesitate to call Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa for 24-hour mold remediation services at 205-632-7222 . If anyone in your household is experiencing an adverse reaction, such as the symptoms we listed above, please visit a doctor immediately.

The Storm Recovery Process Tuscaloosa, AL Residents Need to Know

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 06:01:46 GMT

In the event of a terrible storm, the resulting damage can often be overwhelming to the average homeowner. We’re talking about water damage, wind damage, and even debris left behind because of the storm. All of this can make quite the mess. If not handled appropriately, the resulting contamination, corrosion, and structural instability can ruin your life. Here in Tuscaloosa, AL, homeowners have a chance to take back their home from a storm. The storm recovery process is a guaranteed solution. However, most don’t know how it works. Let’s dive into the process and see it from the very beginning.

Storm Recovery Process in Tuscaloosa, AL

The storm recovery process is simple in theory, but the steps detailed below are necessary and often complex in nature. Without the right restoration tools and techniques, the process cannot move forward. Here’s how it works:

Assessment – It all begins with a complete assessment of the whole property – top to bottom. The restoration team will inspect every aspect of the house, including flooring and walls, for signs of storm damage.
Mitigation – Depending on the extent of the damage, key steps may be necessary to mitigate any further storm damage. This includes removing standing water.
Cleanup – The water and storm debris left behind can easily make matters worse if not properly cleaned. The restoration team will be quick to remove such mess and start cleaning your home’s hard surfaces, furniture, and more.
Restoration – Any damage to the structure itself will be thoroughly repaired and restored, including cabinets, carpet, wallpaper, windows, and more.

After the Storm

Once the storm has passed, the area is not completely safe. Here are a few tips in the event of a terrible storm in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Follow the directions and instructions of any local authorities. If the area is beginning to flood, you’ll need to know which roads to avoid and where to evacuate to in the event of worsening conditions.
Avoid any affected areas that could pose a hazard. You should remain off the roads to ensure first responders can make it through quickly and easily.
Remain out of any water, as it could be contaminated or deeper than it appears, leading to drowning, injury, or property loss.
The outages in your home may be extensive, including power, water, gas, and communications. These services will take time to return, so do not panic.
Remain vigilant and aware, as there will be danger and plenty of chaos going on in the area.

After a severe storm sweeps through the area, contact Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa . We offer 24-hour property restoration services and storm recovery at a moment’s notice. Even better, we’ll arrive within an hour of your phone call.

You can reach us at 205-632-7222 today.

Types of Water Damage That Could Affect Your Property in Tuscaloosa

Wed, 15 May 2019 07:24:33 GMT

When you think of water damage, you likely imagine what everyone else does – a slow water leak dripping from the ceiling or down the walls. But in reality, there are different types of water damage that go unseen. Your eyes were not built to dissect the contaminants and bacteria in standing water, but they’re there. These contaminants, found in both gray water damage and black water damage, can easily cause health concerns, including infections and waterborne disease. The first step in tackling such water damage is better understanding it. Then, you can schedule professional water damage restoration to rid your home of the problem.

Types of Water Damage

There are three key types of water damage, broken down into categories, that affect most properties. These include clean water damage, gray water damage, and black water damage. They are, respectively, Category 1, 2, and 3. The higher the tier, the worse the damage and contamination.

Clean Water – Category 1 water damage, or clean water damage, is uncontaminated and poses no serious health risk to people or pets when consumed or exposed to standing water. Typically, clean water damage stems from an overflowing sink, freshwater burst pipe, and even rainwater. Like most types of water damage, clean water damage can escalate if left unattended. You have less than 48 hours to address the problem before it additional issues arise.
Gray Water – Category 2 water damage, or gray water damage, is slightly contaminated and often leads to minor health concerns, such as discomfort or illness, when ingested or when bare skin is exposed to the standing water. Typically, gray water damage stems from a bathtub or shower overflow, or a leaking appliance like a washing machine or dishwasher. The level of contamination found in gray water damage is not life threatening, but it can still be considered dangerous.
Black Water – Lastly, category 3 water damage, or black water damage, is highly contaminated due to its source, which may include groundwater flooding and sewage backups. Black water damage is extremely unsanitary, with human feces, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasites littered throughout. If you or a pet were to ingest or come in contact with black water, the risk of waterborne disease and infection are immense. You should never handle black water damage cleanup; leave it to the experts.

Again, it’s important to note that clean water damage can easily become gray water damage if left untreated for too long. You’re on the clock. In most cases, you have under 48 hours to address your water damage concerns before mold begins to grow and contamination increases. Timing is key.

You can find a local, IICRC-certified water damage restoration company near you to handle any type of water damage. Look to Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa for burst pipes, flood damage, and leaking appliances. You can schedule prompt service by calling 205-632-7222 !

How to Choose a Property Restoration Company in Tuscaloosa

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 08:48:42 GMT

When your home suffers from extensive damage caused by a flood, fire, or another type of natural disaster, you need a local restoration company in Tuscaloosa that is capable of providing relief. The team you choose should be readily available, properly equipped, and have the expertise necessary to get the job done right. If you pick the wrong restoration contractor, you risk a worsening situation. Or, you might be paying too much for lackluster service. You’re certainly on the clock with property damage, but taking some time to research can make a world of difference.

How to Choose a Local Restoration Company

Choosing the right contractor for the job is not science. It all boils down to a few factors, which will help you make the right decision.

Reviews – When shopping around for a property restoration company, look at their online reviews first. Or, you can get firsthand recommendations from friends and family. Generally, it’s a good idea to read through both the positive and negative reviews posted online.
Specialization – You want a contractor that specializes in property restoration. As such, hiring a general contractor is usually not the way to go. Instead, find yourself a local restoration company that focuses on repair work like water, fire, and mold damage restoration services.
IICRC Certification – The IICRC , or Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification, only certifies restoration companies with the skills and experience necessary to perform the job right. By having certification, this shows you that the company in question is legitimate and good at what they do.
Quick Response – With property damage, you often have less than 48 hours to respond accordingly. You need a restoration company that can do the same. Ask your prospective contractor whether they can arrive within the hour to begin the damage restoration process.

Signs to Avoid a Property Restoration Company

On the other hand, there are a few signs that indicate you should avoid a property restoration company. These include:

Over-the-Phone Estimates – Following a fire or flood, you might be tempted to hire a restoration company that can handle the job right this moment. You might even ignore other factors for such a speedy response. But, if the company is offering a fast, over-the-phone estimate without examining the damage, then it’s time to walk away.
Lack of Paperwork – Repairing and restoring an entire home is a lot of work. There will absolutely be paperwork involved. If the restoration company you’re speaking to has a distinct lack of paperwork, they are likely unscrupulous.
Down payment – Most restoration companies – those worth their price – do not ask for a large down payment or offer a cash discount. These companies are often preying upon confused, stressed-out homeowners who want quick relief against property damage. They will likely take the money and disappear.

The restoration company in Tuscaloosa, AL, that earns your business should be able to uphold the high level of quality you expect. For guaranteed results and peace of mind, call Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa at 205-632-7222 !

What's the Process of Professional Sewage Cleanup?

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 16:10:19 GMT

A sewage backup is a grave issue. The level of contamination caused by sewage causes countless people and animals to become sick each year. Sewage water can contain bacteria, parasites, viruses, and other waterborne contaminants.

Thankfully, emergency restoration services and sewage removal techniques are available. You can find a local restoration company with the most advanced equipment and techniques to address any size sewage backup.

You always want to hire professionals. The risk of contamination and damage from sewage is too great for the average homeowner to mess around with.

The Sewage Cleanup Process

When it comes to sewage cleanup, your local restoration company will follow a strict process. This process is broken down into careful steps.

Inspection – First and foremost, a full home inspection is performed to determine the extent of the sewage damage. Floors, ceilings, drywall, and other structural materials may be affected by water and sewage contamination. The inspection process will locate all signs of the damage.
Removal – After the inspection, but before any other task is completed, the water and sewage must be fully removed. Using wet vacuums and pumps, all water is extracted from the area. The contaminated water is properly disposed of to reduce the risk of further contamination.
Drying – The team will then bring in dehumidifiers and air movers to begin drying and removing any remaining moisture in the area, thereby preventing further damage.
Disinfection – Due to the numerous bacteria and viruses found in sewage, the entire area must be disinfected. To prevent mold and parasites from flourishing, the team will clean and deodorize each room. This process helps stall illness and rid the area of odors.
Restoration – Now, with all other steps complete, the true restoration phase can begin. The final step involves fixing or replacing any damaged items, along with repairing the structural damage caused by the water and sewage matter.

Sewage cleanup can be an overwhelming process. You’re worried about the state of your home, whether someone will fall ill, and whether the cleanup process will truly work.
We urge homeowners not to handle sewage cleanup themselves. The risk of contamination and worsening property damage is far too great. Furthermore, most homeowners are not equipped with the proper devices or safety equipment to handle the matter.
If you’re dealing with sewage in your home or business, contact Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa . We provide 24-hour sewage cleanup and removal services , and we are fully equipped to handle the job safely. You can reach us at any hour by calling 205-632-7222 !

What's the Average Cost of Mold Remediation in Tuscaloosa?

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

The total removal of mold in your home can be a tricky process. We often don’t notice that mold is even growing; it spreads behind walls, underneath floors, and within the fabric of our furniture. Mold is tricky, silent, and often quite expensive to completely remove.

What you need is professional mold remediation. Mold is not the type of job you can handle yourself. As nice as it would be to save money by performing DIY repairs, mold doesn’t work that way. One mishap could spread the spores further into your home. Then, you’ll ultimately pay more for mold remediation. It’s better to schedule professional mold remediation early.

Mold Remediation Costs

Currently, the average cost of mold remediation is sitting at $2,233. Most homeowners have a budget of anywhere between $1,000 to a little over $3,000. On the high end, professional mold remediation in Tuscaloosa can cost up to $6,000. No matter what you pay, you’ll want to have a mold expert on-site at all times.

Why are these costs so high? Well, as we said previously, mold can be tricky. One misstep could lead to your mold problem spreading extensively throughout the house. Furthermore, there are factors at play including the growth of the mold, how much corrosion has occurred, what size of team is required, and where the growth is located. Mold experts most consider these factors and how they impact the total cost for removal.

Before any work begins on the mold in your home, the restoration company you choose should provide a complete quote of their services. This quote will include the work they intend to complete and the total cost. If you sign off, they can begin immediately.

Types of Mold

There are countless types of mold affecting households in Tuscaloosa. Most are relatively harmless, but some (like black mold) can be dangerous to your health. These mold spores spread through the air once released, infecting anything they touch. As the spores settle, they form new growths. If you were to inhale black mold spores, the results could pose a threat. In some cases, deaths have occurred due to black mold exposure. Most often, you’ll endure respiratory illness, irritation, coughing, skin rashes, and in severe cases, depression or internal bleeding from the lungs.

The potential for black mold is the primary reason why everyone recommends hiring a mold expert. A local restoration company is better equipped and trained to deal with any type of mold imaginable, from the mildest cases to the most severe. Don’t risk your own health. Call the experts who are properly equipped with safety gear to tackle mold specifically.

When it comes to mold remediation in Tuscaloosa, trust the best of the best at Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa . We routinely provide quality mold remediation for homeowners. You can reach us at 205-632-7222 !

How Appliances Can Result in Deadly Home Fires in Tuscaloosa

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Most homes use electrical appliances for everyday tasks, from heating to cooking. Over time, these appliances may succumb to wear and tear. Everyday use can truly leave a lasting effect on microwaves, ovens, or washing machines.

When you least expect it, the appliance may burst into flames or cause a small fire. The resulting damage can quickly spread throughout the house and lead to extensive fire damage. Many homeowners feel the need to buy a new house and start fresh. A local restoration service could help ease the pain and save you money in the long-run.

Appliance Fires

Take a good look around your home. Chances are you have numerous household appliances connected to an electric socket. Is the socket overloaded? How old is the appliance you’re examining? These are pertinent questions that could mean prevent a future fire.

Each year, there are countless house fires that start because of a household appliance. Here are a few facts regarding house fires and appliances from 2002 to 2009, according to Consumer Reports .

Microwave – Over 2,300 house fires were caused by microwaves. The most common cause of a microwave fire was the unit running without any food inside.
Refrigerator – More than 1,500 house fires started because of a faulty refrigerator. Typically, these fires were caused by a relay switch short-circuiting or a light bulb remaining on after the door was closed.
Toaster – Over 1,300 fires were caused by toasters and toaster ovens. These fires often began because the toaster turned itself on or a mechanism jammed while in use.

Avoid Appliance Fires

Like any other fire risk in your home, you can take active steps today to prevent an appliance fire. Here are a few safety steps to protect yourself, your family, and your home from a severe house fire:

Check Recalls – On occasion, manufacturers recall their electric appliances because of faulty components, wiring, or fire risks. You need to keep an eye out for such recalls so you don’t keep a faulty unit in your home.
Fire Prevention – A working smoke alarm is a critical piece of safety equipment in any home. Always be sure your smoke alarms are in working order year-round to provide early warnings against a fire.
Power Cords – On occasion, inspect the power cords of all your appliances. Any signs of fraying or damage mean you need to replace the cord promptly. Otherwise, you risk a house fire.
Range Hoods – Grease and food debris may buildup in range hoods, which then pose a fire hazard. Be sure to clean the vents on occasion. Once per month is a good bet for most homes.

If your home has been damaged by a faulty appliance, call Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa . We provide 24-hour fire damage restoration services in the event of a sparking toaster or faulty washing machine. Give us a call at 205-632-7222 !

How Frozen Pipes Can Damage Your Property in Tuscaloosa, AL

Wed, 12 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Alabama certainly isn’t known for its icy winters, but occasionally, temperatures can drop to the low thirties during January and February. Because these freezing temperatures are rare, many Tuscaloosa homeowners aren’t prepared to properly protect their homes. This can lead to expensive damage, especially if a pipe bursts .

How Pipes Can Freeze

Whenever temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, standing water can freeze. Therefore, if there’s any water sitting in your pipes that are touched by the cold weather, the insides of the pipe can freeze. This is an especially high risk if the pipes are not properly insulated or if they’re located in frigid locations like your backyard or garage.

Why They Might Burst

When water freezes, it expands rapidly. Therefore, if it freezes inside your pipe, the ice puts monumental pressure on the pipe, causing the outside to crack and eventually leak or even flood the area. Not only will you have to deal with the broken pipe, but you’ll also have to deal with the massive cleanup from the spraying water.

How You Can Prevent Burst Pipes

Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent pipes from bursting in your home if temperatures dip below freezing. The first thing you can do is let your faucets drip continuously until the cold weather passes. This will keep the water flowing in your pipes and prevent it from solidifying into ice.

Secondly, you can work on better insulating your pipes to prevent them from getting cold. There are sleeves sold at hardware stores specifically designed to do this, but you can also use towels, blankets, or even newspapers to do the job if you have nothing else on hand.

What You Can Do If It Happens

If the worst happens and a pipe does explode, leaking water all over your house, don’t panic. Instead, immediately call a professional damage restoration company like Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa to help you recover. We come equipped with the best water removal and cleanup technology available, so we’ll have your home back in its original state quickly.

As soon as a pipe bursts or you encounter another source of water damage , don’t hesitate to call our restoration experts at 205-632-7222 . We’re standing by all day, every day, so we can respond no matter when disaster strikes.

How to Clean Up After an Appliance Leak

Wed, 31 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Appliance leaks can be more than just aggravating. They can be detrimental to your flooring and possessions that are in the way of the water, and will likely require an insurance claim to be filed. When it comes to water damage , many people do not know that types of water damage are classified by severity. When a professional comes to service a leak from an appliance, for instance, they know to expect what is called “gray water.” Here’s the process on how an appliance leak has to be cleaned up.

Act Quickly

As with any water intrusion, the key to minimizing the damage is to act quickly. If you start a cycle for your washing machine or dishwasher and leave the house, in case of a leak, that could potentially mean the worst for your flooring. Hardwood flooring and carpeting are the types you have to worry about most, and fortunately, many homes today do not have either of them near washing machines! However, it is quite possible to have hardwood flooring in the kitchen, so always monitor your refrigerator and dishwasher. The minute you see water where it should not be, you need to get towels or anything that will help you absorb the water quickly. That’s the beginning of the process.

The Gray Water Difference

As mentioned previously, there are varying degrees of severity when it comes to water damage service, all based on the level of contamination. The scale goes from clean, to gray, to black. Gray water is right in the middle, and although it’s not nearly as dangerous as black water, extra care must be taken during cleanup due to what it could contain. Things that make water “gray” include: soap and detergent, food particles and grease, hair, urine (if a toilet overflowed), and other things of that nature. One of the biggest concerns with appliance leaks can be that the detergents and soaps you use every day have chemicals that could diminish the quality of your flooring – if improperly cleaned up or left to sit too long. This is especially a concern if your appliance was mid-cycle when the leak occurred.

Call a Professional If It’s Too Widespread

If the leak was massive and a lot of water escaped to multiple rooms in your home, you may need to have the assistance of a professional to get the water cleaned up in a timely manner. A professional will also be able to offer you their insight on the extent of the damage, as well as provide industrial fans for drying, and dehumidification services to stifle any possibility of a mold infestation starting up! They will have the health of your family and safety of your house in mind.

Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa Is a Phone Call Away

With Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa, you have a team of ready water damage experts that can be at your property as soon as you call us. Appliance leaks always happen unexpectedly, and often at the worst possible time. This is why we offer emergency services 24/7 , a quality we believe makes us stand out from other companies out there. To schedule a service with us , call us today at 205-632-7222 .

How Your Appliances Can Cost You Thousands in Water Damage

Wed, 26 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

One of the best aspects of living in the 21st century is the amount of appliances that we have at our disposal to make our lives much easier. We have dishwashers that simply have to be unloaded and reloaded, washing machines that can be adjusted based upon intensity of rotation and temperature, and water heaters that continuously supply hot water for bathing at any time of day. But, what you may not realize is just how much water damage these machines can cause to your floors and home should the slightest malfunction occur. Here is how your common household appliances could cost you major amounts of funny in an unexpected accident.

Leaks

All appliances that use water have the ability to leak. Wear and tear is one of the main reasons; there are components that should be replaced throughout the course of the machine’s lifetime. For example, in a dishwasher door, there is a seal that prevents any water from dripping out while the dishwasher is running. This sealing strip can become loose after years, but fortunately is easy to replace. Dishwasher components are relatively inexpensive, which is a plus. The incurred water damage, however, can sometimes not be so simple to repair due to the length of time the water has saturated the flooring and surrounding area. Many homeowners and contractors alike know that hardwood flooring in the kitchen is unwise, but it is surprising how many homeowners install beautiful hardwoods in areas with appliances that could potentially leak down the road. It is not the best idea to have hardwood floors in the kitchen or laundry room, however if you do have hardwood floors in these spaces, be vigilant on checking into your appliances’ conditions.

Basement and Drywall Saturation

If your home is one of the lucky ones that have a basement in Tuscaloosa, keep in mind that you can be faced with costly damage should any appliances you keep down there leak. Basements are prone to dampness as is, and if your water heater or washer and dryer experience a malfunction of some kind, you could have a wet basement that is even more prone to a widespread mold infestation if you do not immediately address the problem. That water can seep into your drywall and baseboards, and if you do not notice it for a few days, you can expect to automatically have to replace the compromised pieces if they are too soaked to dry normally.

Call Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa Today

At Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa , we want to make you aware that the appliances you use every single day can easily leak and wreak havoc on your home in no time at all. You want to catch water damage early, and get it out of there before it has time to saturate your flooring, walls, and other parts of your home. If something seems off with one of your appliances, examine it, or have it professionally serviced. Do not ignore any pooling or puddling around the machine. For any water damage restoration needs, your local team at Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa is available for you 24/7. Call us whenever you need us at 205-632-7222 . We serve Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and surrounding cities .

How Your Air Conditioner May Cause a House Fire

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 20:38:50 GMT

A fire in your home can strike unexpectedly, quickly causing destruction if it is not taken care of soon enough. Fire safety and preparedness is crucial, and part of that includes being aware of all of the potential ways that a fire could start in your home. One of these risks, which may be alarming, is your air conditioning unit. If proper maintenance and repairs are not completed, the unit could become a potential fire hazard. Here are some things to be aware of as a homeowner, and ways to avoid fire damage caused by your air conditioner.

Your Air Conditioning Unit Is Working Around the Clock

In Tuscaloosa, we have hot, humid summers, which means that we run our air conditioning practically 24/7. This is usually not a problem, unless you are not giving your air conditioning unit the proper upkeep that it needs. It is one of your most frequently used and hardest working appliances, which means that it could break down temporarily due to overuse. But a breakdown is benign compared to a fire, which is why it is advisable to inspect the unit for any small issues before they become larger risks.

You Need Routine Maintenance

Many of your appliances require routine maintenance to keep them in top shape and stay ahead of potential disaster. Your air conditioning unit is no different – especially when a lack of maintenance can result in a fire. You want a certified technician who can examine the unit to ensure there is no faulty wiring, which is a huge fire hazard, and to make sure your filters are clean. A dirty filter pushes your appliance even harder as it has to somehow get air through clogged openings. Eventually, this overuse can lead to a fire.

July 9 Tuscaloosa Fire

On July 9, 2018, WBRC Fox 6 News reported an air conditioning fire that completely burned someone’s mobile home to the ground in Tuscaloosa. Both of the residents made it out and there were no injuries, but the condition of the home was described as a “total loss.” A neighbor commented that an air conditioning fire was not something they realized they needed to worry about. The fire and rescue teams on the scene advised that, along with the precautions listed above, a certified technician should inspect an air conditioner’s coils. If they are dirty or too old, the chance of a fire increases.

Call Us Today

At Restoration 1 of Tuscaloosa, we always want you to be informed about the potential risks to your home. Air conditioning fires are more common than you think, and it is best to take the proper prevention steps when possible. If you experience property damage of any kind, call us at 205-632-722 2. We serve Tuscaloosa and the surrounding communities.