4 Causes of Noisy Pipes and How To Stop Them

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Copper piping expands and contracts along with temperature fluctuations.

Four Reasons For Loud Pipes

When the plumbing in your house starts making noise, it may be the sign of an imminent pipe break. The water damage created by these unfortunate circumstances often requires rebuilding expertise provided by a home restoration professional. Here are four reasons for loud pipes and what actions can be taken before the conditions triggering the clamor develop into calamity.

1. Loose Fittings
Clicking or rattling may be signs of improperly fitted pipes. This condition, prone to worsening over time, must be fixed fast. If you have exposed plumbing, simply tighten the bolts and replace worn-out segments yourself. Should your pipes be hidden behind walls or otherwise difficult to access, have a plumber re-route your water delivery system before a pipe break develops.

2. Copper Pipes
Copper piping expands and contracts along with temperature fluctuations, making them particularly noisy. Luckily, a pipe burst should not be a concern under these circumstances. Remedy the situation by applying insulation or lowering the temperature of your water.

3. Water Hammers
Certain plumbing systems are protected by air chambers that prevent water from slamming into valves when taps shut off. Over time, water hammers are created when air gets replaced with water, thus reducing the chambers' stopping power and making pipes cranky. Replenish the air supply within your system by performing a full drain. If this fails, have a plumber come to your home in Leisure World, AZ, to inspect the issue.

4. Water Pressure
Noisy pipes are also known to occur when water pressure is too high. Before you find yourself scrambling to fix broken pipe parts, adjust your boiler’s regulator. If the boiler in your home does not have a meter, seek guidance from a service professional.
Noisy pipes are an annoyance, but the frustration they cause pales in comparison to that of a pipe break. Listen closely to the sounds your plumbing creates and take action as soon as you suspect a problem.

How Flooding Affects Furnaces

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

A furnace flood in Mesa, AZ.

Many large commercial buildings have packaged rooftop units with a gas or electric boiler or a chiller with a boiler for space heating. Smaller structures that rely on conventional gas or electric furnaces can sustain serious damage from a furnace flood. Find out how to avoid the worst consequences of water damage after a pipe burst near a furnace in a building located in Mesa, AZ.

Increased Risk of Electrical Problems

A commercial building may have a gas or electric furnace. Furnaces powered by electricity contain several components that could malfunction after being exposed to water:

• Contactor
  
• Heating element
  
• Sequencer
  
• Transformer
  
  

If any of these components malfunction on a flooded furnace, the unit could trip a fuse or even blow a breaker. It is important to shut off the power to a flooded electrical furnace unit to reduce fire risks.

Metal Components May Corrode
Corrosion on sensitive components such as the contactor in a furnace can cause a unit that runs on electrical power to cease to function. Corrosion is caused by a chemical reaction between the salts that occur in water and any type of metal. Iron components corrode more quickly than stainless steel. Noble metals are less reactive and prone to corrosion.

Ductwork Can Become Contaminated
After a furnace flood, residue from a unit powered by gas or oil can travel through outflow ducting and contaminate a structure. Under the worst circumstances, a furnace blowback can spread soot throughout a building. It is a good idea to arrange for air duct cleaning after any commercial furnace or heating unit suffers water damage.
A furnace flood has the potential to undermine the function of this crucial appliance and the safety of a structure. Shutting off the furnace and the circuit for an appliance powered by electricity can help to limit safety risks at a commercial building in Mesa, AZ.

3 Ways to Tell if You Need to Replace Your Carpet

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Carpet replacement in Adobe Hills, AZ

3 Ways to Tell if You Need to Replace Your Carpet

The carpet in your Adobe Hills, AZ, home isn't going to last forever. The key is to know when to replace it. While major accidents, like a pipe break, could cause you to have to replace your rug, there are other smaller ways to tell if you need new flooring. Read on for some of the most common ways to tell if it needs to be replaced.

1. Consider Its Age
Typically, the maximum age a rug is expected to last is 15 years. The exact length of time it will last is dependant on how much use it sees. For instance, your spare bedroom's rug will last much longer than the one in your entranceway. Other things can endanger your rug prematurely, such as kids, pets, and having to have professional remediation performed near a rug. While there is no specific age that your rug needs to be replaced, you should start watching for other signs if it is nearing its maximum age.

2. Look for Damage
Tears and other types of damage are a sign that you need to replace your rug. If you find any large spots of damage, you should find a new rug immediately.

3. Beware of Allergens
Older carpets can hold mold spores and other allergens. If you notice an increase in your allergy symptoms, it could be due to your rug. For instance, watch out for trouble breathing. It would help if you also were on the lookout for an increase in your household's colds. An increase in cold symptoms could mean that it is time to replace your rug. This is especially true for carpets that have gotten wet due to a pipe break and were not replaced during the restoration process.
A pipe break, regular wear and tear, and other things can cause your rug to need to be replaced. Knowing some of the ways to tell if it needs to be replaced can give you an advantage in this process.

How To Handle a Toilet Overflow

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Overflows occur as a result of a blockage or break somewhere in the line

Take The Following Three Steps To Sanitize Properly

When water spills out of the commode, homeowners in Mesa, AZ, have several issues to consider. Not only does the space need drying out, but residents must consider the consequences of possible sewer damage. The fluid could be Category 3 water, fraught with bacterial spores. Wiping it down with towels isn't enough to reduce the hazardous environment. 

1. Minimize the Overflow
Stop the flow as soon as possible. Begin by turning the shut off valve on the toilet. This is usually located toward the bottom. Move it clockwise, ensuring that water can no longer enter the fixture. Before inspecting the toilet itself, eliminate the excess liquid. Lift up the toilet's lid. Pull on the level, lifting the valve seal. If assistance is needed, contact professionals at a sewage company.

2. Fix the Source
Overflows occur as a result of a blockage or break somewhere in the line. Inspect the commode first for an obstruction. A plunger or auger, also known as a snake, may be used to force out the problem.
If the lines appear clear, consider inspecting the outside pipes for sewer damage. Tree roots can puncture holes into the sewer tubes, exposing it to sand and dirt. The external buildup stops the flow. Examine the yard for dips or holes. This could be the spot of trouble. You may also look into the drain cleanout. A sewer cleanup company can run a camera down, searching for areas of concern.

3. Clean the Space
Tend to anything the flooded toilet ruined. Use soap and warm water to wash off the walls and fixtures. Run dehumidifiers to reduce the moisture levels in the walls and flooring. Once everything is dry, use a disinfectant to clean the space, killing off any lingering germs.
Be aware that a toilet overflow means possible sewer damage. Spend time eliminating the dampness, but also concentrate on eliminating microbe levels.

3 Causes of Noise in Your Water Heater

10/9/2020 (Permalink)

The options listed here are not the only possible causes of noise in your water heater

3 Causes of Noise in Your Water Heater

When household appliances and equipment begin to emit strange noises, it is often cause for concern. Abnormal sounds can indicate broken parts. However, they can also be caused by factors besides damage. If your water heater in Leisure World, AZ, is producing out of the ordinary sounds, it may be due to any one of many possible causes. Here are three reasons that are potentially responsible for any racket made.

1. Noises Caused by Harmless, Easily Fixed Problems
If noises from your water heater are keeping you up at night or constantly getting on your nerves, they might be due to minor problems with easy solutions. For example, screeches or scream-like noises may be caused by inadequately opened valves; this din can be eliminated by fully opening the valves so that water no longer has to squeeze through tight, narrow openings. Another noise-causing issue that can be fixed with minimal effort is a loose element in an electric heater, which can result in a humming noise. This can be resolved through tightening of the element. Problems like these are harmless and unlikely to cause any damage besides annoyance if left untreated.

2. Noises Caused by Normal, Non-Problems
Then there are perfectly normal noises. These are natural byproducts of the heater running. Examples include:

• Ticking and/or tapping from check valves or heat traps
  
• Knocks from pipes hitting against walls due to expansion and contraction from cooling and heating
  
• Hammering sounds from pipes hitting against walls due to the starting and stopping of water flow
  
  

3. Noises Caused by Sediment
Sediment can cause popping and rumbling. Popping can come from water forcing its way through sediment that has gathered around the heater's element, and rumbling may occur if there is sediment in the tank. Cleaning and a water heater flush by a professional cleanup service may help reduce any clamor caused by sediment in the tank.
The options listed here are not the only possible causes of noise in your water heater. Consulting a professional if you are uncertain what the cause is may be the best move. However, not all noises signify something wrong. There are many possible harmless reasons.

4 Steps for Creating a Business Continuity Plan

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

Business continuity plan

Four Steps To Creating An Effective Plan

A business continuity plan is used to plan ahead in case disaster strikes. Creating a good plan can help keep your business operational even after a flood. By analyzing your business processes and planning for what could happen in a disaster, you can decrease the impact on your company. There are four steps to creating an effective plan.

1. Conduct a Business Impact Analysis
Begin the process by identifying critical business functions. Ask yourself what processes and resources support those functions, what the impact would be of losing those functions, and at what point in time the loss would begin to occur.

2. Identify Critical Business Functions and Processes
Rate the processes and functions you identified in your business impact analysis. Use your analysis to determine what areas are critical to your business and which ones you could get by without.

3. Create Your Business Continuity Plan
Your plan should revolve around the critical business functions and processes you identified in the previous step. Focus your efforts on the most critical and work your way down the list. Determine which safeguards will help for each process or function. Safeguards may include action items like tying down certain items, sending people home to work remotely, or transferring your computer systems over to an offsite location.

4. Test the Plan and Train Your Employees
The best way to know if an emergency response plan is effective is to try it out. When you do a walkthrough with your employees, you may find that a step or two is missing. Update the document and then try again. Once the plan plays out the way you want it to, train the rest of your employees on what should be done in case of an emergency.
Although a good business continuity plan can minimize the impact of an emergency on your business operations, damage to your building can still occur. If you have experienced water damage in Adobe Hills, AZ, call a professional water remediation company for help.

4 Ways To Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

5/26/2020 (Permalink)

Develop a relationship with a good plumbing contractor in Adobe Hills, AZ

4 Ways To Prevent Water Damage in Your Home

Preventing water at home can seem like an insurmountable task, and in many ways it is. In some cases, even the best efforts cannot prevent any possibility of water damage. However, the actions you take can have an effect, either in reducing the level of water damage or in preventing a problem altogether. Targeted, smart precautions won't take a lot of time or cost a lot of money, but still might pay off handsomely. Consider the following actions:

1. Keep an Eye on Plumbing. Develop a relationship with a good plumbing contractor in Adobe Hills, AZ. A reputable plumber can fix many small problems for you and can inspect old plumbing systems to ward off bigger problems, such as a broken pipe or a hidden leak.

2. Contact Water Damage Experts. A local water mitigation franchise can be a source of information before a catastrophe strikes. An experienced company may be able to advise you on ways to prevent water at home from becoming a large problem. If you do have a big issue, trained technicians can arrive at your home in a few hours or less and begin the mitigation process. This can prevent further damage and lead the way to a quick recovery.

3. Strengthen the Home. Many small steps can be taken in and around a home to prevent the damages caused by water. A strong roof system, including clean gutters, can keep water from spilling into the home. Storm drains divert water from foundations.

4. Keep Insurance Current. A strong insurance policy can help you recover from an expensive pipe cleanup or from other issues. Make sure your policy covers your home from the most common perils. If you live in a flood zone, consider getting flood insurance from the federal government.
It is never good to find water in a home where it does not belong. Proactive measures can limit your exposure to water damage.

Common Sewer Issues in Commercial Buildings

5/11/2020 (Permalink)

Tree roots growing in the sewer line is a common reason for sewer backup problems

What Are Some Causes of Sewer Issues?

If you smell sewer odors or notice a leak or toilet overflow at your building in Desert Uplands, AZ, immediate action is critical. You could have a blocked sewer, which if left unattended can lead to other problems. So, what are some causes of sewer issues? Always be mindful of:

1. The Accumulation of Food and Grease
Commercial kitchens, or even employee breakrooms, are likely to have clogged plumbing and sewer lines at some point due to the accumulation of kitchen waste in the sink drain. Grease is one of the worst offenders; it solidifies and sticks to the pipes. Coffee grounds and fibrous foods can also be a big problem, eventually clogging the sewer line. Various methods such as high-pressure water or rodding are frequently used for these types of clogs.

2. The Presence of Foreign Objects
The introduction of foreign objects such as feminine hygiene products, baby wipes, and paper towels is a very common bathroom plumbing issue. Bathroom drains and sewer lines are only designed to handle two things: toilet paper and human waste. High-power water jetting and rodding are a couple of measures that can be taken, but the lines of a blocked sewer might need replacing if the clog is bad enough. As with grease and certain types of food in the kitchen, prevention is key.

3. The Growth of Tree Roots
Tree roots can be a tremendous problem for sewer lines. Roots are always looking for moisture and nutrients in the ground. Consequently, they’ll sometimes perceive the moisture of a sewer line as a good source. Roots will grow into sewer pipes, causing cracks and eventually pipe breaks. Then, the tree roots may totally block a line causing a sewer backup. Tree roots will have to be cut back. Trees in the affected area may have to be removed completely, and the affected sewer line replaced.
If you experience any type of water disaster resulting from such problems as a blocked sewer or a pipe break, you can count on water damage restoration professionals. They’ll return your property to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.

4 Steps for Filing a Home Water Damage Claim

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

File a claim

4 Steps for Filing a Home Water Damage Claim

It’s probably safe to say that you don’t have a plan in place should a home flood occur; not many homeowners do. A pipe burst, leaking roof or toilet overflow are just a few water disasters that your home could face. It’s best to have an idea of what your insurance covers; obviously an insurance claim should be filed soon. But what’s the best procedure to follow? Take these steps to minimize damage and get your home and life back to preloss condition as soon as possible:

1. Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible so that they can send an adjuster to your home in Desert Uplands, AZ, to asses the damage. The adjuster needs to inspect all damage before cleanup begins.

2. File a Claim

The sooner you complete and submit the claim forms, the sooner you’ll be reimbursed for the repairs. The insurance company must, by law, send you the insurance claim forms to complete within a certain time frame.

3. Schedule and Prepare for a Visit With the Insurance Adjuster

The adjuster usually needs to visit the property in person to inspect the extent of the damage. This inspection will determine the amount that the insurance company will pay. In the meantime, create a list of all the destroyed and damaged property and take as many detailed photos as possible in case any changes occur before they arrive.

4. Prevent Additional Damage

If there are temporary repairs that require immediate action to prevent additional damage (e.g., roof tarping), be sure to take photos of the damage beforehand. The insurance company requires you to take any measures necessary to keep further damage from occurring. However, they probably won’t pay on non-emergency damage cleanup that’s begun prematurely.
Water damage is not something to take lightly, so it’s good to know how the insurance claim process works should the unthinkable happen. Choose water damage cleanup professionals to complete the restoration as quickly as possible.

How to Salvage Flooded Electronics

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

It is not safe to turn on flooded electronics before restoration

Water and electronics have always had a rocky relationship, and most people never ask why. Water contains minerals, salts and ions that can create false connections, resulting in electronic damage. These are the same circuits that house all your business records, and losing them would be a total disaster. Here are some of the things you could do to mitigate the effects of water damage on your devices in Leisure World, AZ.

Disconnect Flooded Electronics From Power

The first thing to do when water gets into your electronics is to get them off the mains. However, this seemingly simple task can be hazardous. It is advisable to switch off the electricity on the circuit breaker before trying to handle submerged electronics. Also, be careful when working with devices that have Lithium-ion batteries. They react catastrophically when exposed to water.
Other damages that water causes on electronics include:

• Short-circuiting
  
• Corrosion
  
• Broken LCD
  
• Ruined hard drives
  
  

When you manage to retrieve the device, please turn it off and remove the battery immediately. Drain all the liquid and disassemble it for the cleaning process.

Clean the Circuit Boards

Salvaging flooded electronics translates to thorough cleaning. Start by releasing connectors and removing any shields to gain better access to components. Use a toothbrush and isopropyl alcohol to clean the boards while paying attention to all the little parts. This process will get rid of any debris and deposits from the offending liquid.
After cleaning, dry the boards with a dryer on cold setting or leave them under a desk lamp overnight. Reassemble the device carefully and remember to use a working battery. The device should turn on without issues if you did everything right. In case it doesn’t, take it to a professional restoration service for a second opinion.
Remember, it is not safe to turn on flooded electronics before restoration. You run the risk of electric shock and permanent loss of data. So, it’s better to follow this restoration procedure if you want to be on the safe side.

Explaining the Flood Cleanup and Restoration Process

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damage in Adobe Hills, AZ

Floods can be a nightmare for any homeowner in Adobe Hills, AZ. Even a small amount of water can cause damage. If you don't respond quickly, you may not be able to salvage structural materials or personal items. Luckily, if you get in touch with a professional flood cleanup company, you can get relief. Whether the water damage occurs from a pipe burst, heavy rains, or the main water line break, the pros will clean and restore your home.

Why Call the Professionals?

It may be easy enough for you to take care of minor water issues such as a leaky pipe. However, when you notice damaged carpet, walls, ceilings and other materials, it's time to hire a team of water cleanup specialists. The pros can provide the following:

• Experience handling jobs of any size
  
• The right safety equipment
  
• The right tools to thoroughly clean up after flooding
  
• The knowledge and skills to restore damaged items
  
  

The Cleanup Procedure

The team will begin by assessing the flood damage and stopping the source of the incoming water. Technicians will repair a pipe burst or backed-up sewer line. Next, the crew will use pumps to remove the water and dry cleaning techniques to extract water. The team can clean carpets, furniture, clothing, electronics and documents.

Sanitizing

After removing all of the water, the crew will completely dry the entire area. This will diminish the chance of mold growth. Technicians will then disinfect any parts of the home that the flood affected.

Restoration

Unfortunately, crews may not be able to salvage all materials and items from your house. if a pipe burst or other problems get too much water on your drywall or other building materials, the cleanup team will tear them out and replace them.
When pipe burst or other problem on your property causes water damage, you can count on the pros to get your home back to normal. Specialists will clean, dry, sanitize and restore your living space.

The Secret Language of Pipes

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

Noisy pipes are generally a bad sign

Noisy pipes are generally a bad sign. Your best bet is to call a plumber in Sierra Estate, AZ, right away to address the problem before you end up with a pipe break and the need for a water damage remediation service. However, the type of noise can point you to what the source might be.

Banging

If you hear loud banging coming from your pipes, it could be the precursor to a pipe burst. It is generally an issue with water flow. Three common causes are:

• Water hammer- water traveling at high speeds will slam to a stop when valves or faucets are shut off suddenly.
• Trapped air- air bubbles in the pipes are forced out shortly after turning on a faucet.
• Uneven water pressure- can cause starts and stops that might make your pipes knock around.

Whistling

This noise indicates that the water flow is restricted by an obstruction. First you need to determine where it is coming from- which valve, hose or pipe? Start with everything off and turn each fixture or faucet on one at a time. Most commonly, whistling is caused by a distorted washer or loose screw within the valve. If that does not solve the problem, you may have a buildup somewhere further along in the pipe, which would need to be taken care of before a pipe break.

Humming

Your pipes will hum if your water pressure exceeds the tolerance level of your system. The humming sound comes from the pipes vibrating at a high rate of speed. This most often occurs in homes that use well water. You can have a professional come to check the pressure and make adjustments for you. However, if you know what you are doing, you can check the pressure at the tank yourself if you have well water. Make sure you take care of this quickly before you have to fix broken pipe.
Avoiding a pipe break can be easy if you keep your ears open and listen to your pipes are telling you. These noises might seem like a mystery, but before calling in the ghost busters, call a plumber!

Anyone Can Fix a Leaky Toilet

8/26/2019 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet should be a top priority on your fix-it list

Toilets are one of the most important appliances in your home. Although not glamorous, they utterly transformed daily life in the American household. If you have a leaking toilet in Adobe Hills, AZ, what can you do to fix it?

Diagnose the Problem

You've probably already discovered water on your floor if you are concerned about a leaky, old toilet. So, where's the water coming from? Clean the water up, sit back and watch. You may have to flush the toilet to get it going. If you have already sustained water damage, be sure to research a remediation specialist, as well. Common sources of leaking are:

• wax gasket or loose bolts
• loose supply tube
• faulty shutoff valve
• cracked tank
  

Wax Gasket

If you confirmed the water is pooling underneath the leaking toilet, the most likely culprit is a degraded wax gasket. This is what provides a seal between the base of the toilet and the floor, so you will need to remove the toilet. Be sure to turn off the water and drain the toilet before doing so. Disconnect the supply tube and remove the bolts, then rock toilet back and forth to break the wax seal. Scrape off the old wax and check the flanges before installing the new wax ring.

Supply Tube

While your toilet repair is underway, you may also want to take a look at your supply tube. If you see a crack or have a copper tube, which can sometimes be chrome-plated, you may want to consider replacing it. Stainless-steel enmeshed polymer is the latest in tube technology, and will last you a lot longer. When replacing, be sure to apply a coating of pipe-join compound to ensure it is sealed tight. Now you can go ahead and put your toilet back into place.
A leaking toilet should be a top priority on your fix-it list. Even if you've never attempted plumbing repair before, it is very doable for the average homeowner.

Important Steps to Take After Water Damage

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Turn off the electricity to the home

3 Steps to Consider Taking After Experiencing Water Damage

Water damage to a residence in Desert Uplands, AZ, may cause some major headaches for a homeowner. Whether there is a leak in the roof, a pipe that has burst, an overflowing toilet, or another problem that has resulted in a flood, there are important steps to take to ensure that there are no further issues such as the growth of black mold. Here are three important steps to consider taking after experiencing water damage at a home.

1. Turn Off the Electricity to the Home

Whenever water has leaked in a residence and has caused flooding, it may be a good idea to turn off the electricity. Regardless of where a leak has occurred, it is possible that electrical outlets or wiring may be nearby. It is crucial for an individual to protect himself or herself from being electrocuted.

2. Thoroughly Clean and Dry the Affected Area

A flood at a home can cause significant damage, and it may even lead to additional secondary damage if the water is not properly cleaned and dried up. For example, black mold may grow in areas in which water has not been correctly dried out. Mold thrives in environments that are damp and have high humidity, and it can grow quickly when the conditions are right. Calling professionals who are experienced in handling and cleaning up water damage may be a perfect solution. Experts in water cleanup can treat the flooded area with chemicals that can help to prevent secondary damage such as mold, which can be detrimental to the structural integrity of the home.

3. Repair Damage as Soon as Possible

After water damage has been appropriately cleaned up, it is vital to repair the issue that caused the flood as soon as possible. If a leaky roof or a broken pipe has caused the water damage for example, having these issues repaired immediately can help to prevent the problems from happening again. Following these three steps may help to significantly reduce the chance of incurring secondary damage, particularly the growth of black mold.

What Can I Do To Dry My Documents?

4/25/2019 (Permalink)

Water restoration in a Red Mountain Ranch, AZ office

How to Treat Wet Documents

If water makes its way into your Red Mountain Ranch, AZ, office, your paperwork could be among the first items to suffer damage. While you can replace carpet, drywall and even electronics, you may have a more difficult time replacing paper documents. It’s not impossible to completely dry and salvage these important items. You just need to know how to properly treat wet documents.

What To Watch Out For

There’s a wide variety of materials that can fall prey to water issues in your building. With the right methods, you can dry and restore any of these.

• Files
  
• Books
  
• Magazines
  
• Maps
  
• X-rays
  
• Photographs
  
• Blueprints
  
  

The Most Prudent Care

If you aren’t gentle with your documents, the document drying process will be futile. You can completely destroy these items if you don’t treat them properly. This is why the best course of action is to contact an experienced document cleaning professional to safely dry your papers and other materials.

Using Technology

The team will respect your items and understands how severe flooding and water damage can harm paper and other documents. A skilled company will use freeze-drying techniques to dry the wet items. This is one of the most effective ways to ensure a safe and complete process.

Comprehensive Process

In addition to drying wet documents, the crew will also make sure it’s clean and free from any harmful substances or materials. Because any water may have left dangerous residue or bacteria, the technician will use gamma irradiation to sanitize the paperwork.

Trustworthy

The best companies have years of experience practicing these techniques and giving companies back their documents intact. The pros are accustomed to drying wet documents of all sizes and with different levels of damage.

Don’t let floods ruin your important materials. There are ways to dry all sorts of paperwork and other materials. One of smartest moves you can make is to call the professionals.

How To Replace a Toilet

3/14/2019 (Permalink)

Leaking toilet in a Sunland Villages, AZ home

How To Replace a Toilet

Toilet repair may fix a leak, but a homeowner should replace a persistently leaking toilet. Restoring water damage is far more expensive than the cost of replacing an old toilet. Here is an overview of how to replace a toilet.

Remove the Tank and Bowl

Start by removing water from the bowl and tank. There are several effective methods:

• Turn off the water supply
  
• Flush the toilet
  
• Absorb water in the tank with a sponge or solidifying gel
  
• Disconnect the water supply line
  
  

Once the bowl and tank are dry, unscrew the nuts on the base of the tank and lift off the tank. Loosen the nuts that connect the bowl to the floor and remove the bowl.

Remove the Closet Bolts and Wax Ring

Once the old toilet is gone, remove and dispose of the wax ring. Scrape excess wax off the flange with a putty knife and remove the closet bolts. This is a good opportunity to repair flange damage to avoid a new leaking toilet.

Install the New Toilet

You will need to replace all of the components removed with the old toilet. Go through the same process in reverse:

• Install new closet bolts
  
• Apply a new wax ring to the bottom of the bowl
  
• Place the bowl over bolts and install cap bases, washers and nuts
  
• Shorten bolts with a hacksaw and snap on caps
  
• Install bolts and a rubber gasket on the bottom of the tank
  
• Put the tank in place and tighten nuts
  

Once the new toilet is installed, you can reconnect the supply line. Flush the toilet and check for any signs of leaks.

Homeowners who are not familiar with basic plumbing techniques or do not have the necessary tools may want to hire a plumber. If a leaking toilet has caused damage, contact a damage mitigation and restoration service in Sunland Villages, AZ.

Quickly Discovering the Cause of a Shower Leak Can Prevent Major Damage

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Bathtub leaking in a Sunland Villages, AZ home

A leaking shower is more than just a minor annoyance – let go, it can become a structural nightmare. You should always check things out at the first sign of a bathtub leak to avoid a disastrous situation from occurring in your home in Sunland Villages, AZ. A leaking shower could be anything from loose joints in the pipes to a simple shower pan leak and can range from a simple repair to all-out restoration. There are a few things that can be checked to help you ascertain where the leak is coming from and how serious the situation is.

How To Find the Source of a Shower Leak

• Inspect the plumbing components to see if they are wet or leaking
• Check the drainpipe and drain fittings to see that it is properly seated and caulked
  
• Ensure that any caulking is sound and free of breaks
  
• Check doors for gaps in the seal and around hinges to make sure they close tightly
  
• Look for any cracks or gaps around the shower pan that may be allowing water to get through
  
  

A bathtub leak or shower pan leak can sometimes be found by inspecting the ceiling of the room below the bathroom. Water stains or wood that is dark and wet is a reliable sign that something is heading south, as are bulging ceilings, wet carpet or sheetrock. In a tub, look for a loose seal around the drain fittings. This is the easiest fix and a good place to start. If you are dealing with a shower pan, likewise check the seal around the drain first. Also, inspect for cracks or gaps. In a tiled shower, the problem can be as simple as a loose tile that water is getting underneath or the need to re-caulk between tiles.

If you do find a leak, call on a professional restoration service in Sunland Villages, AZ, to do an assessment and help remediate the situation before it gets worse. They can help protect your home and belongings from water damage. Checking regularly for a bathtub leak and taking proactive steps can give you peace of mind.

Preventative Measures Against Water Damage

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Mesa, AZ home

Preventative Measures Against Water Damage

When dealing with problematic water in the home, sometimes complacency is the biggest enemy. Many leak or flood scenarios are a result of a process that occurs over a long period of time. Early prevention is key to ensuring that your property in Mesa, AZ, stays dry.

1. Air Systems

Defective HVAC units are one major cause of leaks in the home. A broken pipe leading to or from the unit can cause visible condensation that accumulates and drips into the insulation below. Cold weather or improper operation can also cause the unit to freeze, resulting in periodic thawing that also creates problematic dripping. Overly-humid air can lead to pockets of moisture buildup over time, exacerbating these issues. Regular inspection of heating and air conditioning systems is necessary to prevent retention of water in the home.

2. Appliances and Related Plumbing

Dishwashers, refrigerators and other appliances need maintenance as well. Corrosion or mechanical wear can cause cracks or fit issues on pipes, gaskets and valves that connect your appliances to your home’s plumbing system. An appropriate pipe cleanup procedure involves both replacement of the broken components and a removal of any lingering water or soaked flooring or drywall surrounding the leak.

3. The Bathroom

Given the volume of water that moves through a typical bathroom, it should be no surprise that leakage can ensue there as well. Toilet drains and shower fixtures should also be inspected frequently to determine that water is only moving through the intended drainage channels. Again, persistent condensation, discoloration or oxidized metal surfaces can be indicative of a problem.

In short, drainage and ventilation keep a home dry. A single point of failure in any of these systems can be enough to cause substantial damage given enough time. Remember, if standing water in the home becomes a severe enough problem, it may be necessary to contact a professional cleanup service.

Four Steps To Mitigate a Water Heater Leak

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Stop the leaking of your water heater in Mesa,AZ

The water heater in your home can trigger extensive damage if it starts to leak. Follow these four steps to mitigate damage caused by a leaking water heater.

1. Identify the Problem

Figure out exactly where the water heater leak is coming from. High pressure can cause water to spray from supply pipes. Pipes may also burst or leak. The gasket that connects heating elements to an electric water heater tank can leak, as well. Check the temperature and pressure relief valve and the drain valve for drips. Condensation during cooler weather or due to an obstructed vent in a gas water heater can also seem like a leak. If corrosion has eaten through a metal tank, you must replace the failed water heater.

2. Drain the Tank

Turn off the gas and either extinguish the pilot light or flip the switch at the breaker box. Shut off the water supply to the heater, and run hot water in a sink or tub to drain the tank. Open the pressure relief valve to test its integrity and drain water more quickly. Allow water in the tank to cool before connecting a hose to the drainage spigot with the opposite end in a large bucket. Turn on the spigot to finish draining the tank.

3. Repair or Replace the Heater

You may be able to fix a leaking water heater yourself. However, a specialist can skillfully repair a broken water heater or install a replacement, reducing the likelihood that a leak will reoccur.

4. Mitigate Water Damage and Restore Damaged Items

Eliminate standing water and thoroughly dry the area to prevent mold from forming. If the water damage is extensive, restoration experts can determine which building materials to restore or replace.

Follow these steps to limit the damage caused by a leaking water heater. Stop the leak and restore the affected area with the assistance of damage restoration professionals located in Mesa, AZ.

How To Make a Water Damage Claim

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

To successfully navigate the insurance claim and cleanup process, follow these tips and don't be afraid to get a flood restoration expert involved.

No homeowner in Mesa, AZ, likes the shock of coming home to a flood caused by a major pipe burst or a water heater leak. If the damage to your home is severe, you may want to file an insurance claim. If so, you will need to contact the insurance agency immediately. Read your insurance policy to determine coverage, exclusions and whether you are responsible for preventing additional damage. When you're ready to make a claim, follow these four steps.

1. Gather Evidence

When you file a claim, you are likely to obtain a better settlement if you collect evidence using an effective plan. The steps below can help you to build a solid claim:

• Take pictures of the damage from a few different angles and pair them with a written inventory of each item's model, age and replacement cost.
• Identify whether any outside person's actions may have caused the damage and secure their contact information.
• Keep detailed and accurate records as you gather.
• Organize your evidence chronologically as you collect it.

2. Mitigate Damage

Some policies may require the homeowner to give evidence of action taken to prevent further damage as part of an insurance claim. Others may not. Either way, it will likely help your case if you clean up whatever you can safely access and salvage items that can be restored. Be sure to save this step until after you've photographed the damage, of course.

3. Keep Records

Keep detailed records and copies of every contact you make or receive from insurance representatives. Assemble your evidence and check to make sure you have not overlooked anything. You should now be in a good position to file your claim.

4. File a Claim

Inform your insurance company in writing that you are filing an official claim. The insurance company's adjuster will conduct a damage inspection at your home. After a review, the company will send you an official statement of the dollar amount your policy will cover and exclude for this claim

To successfully navigate the insurance claim and cleanup process, follow these tips and don't be afraid to get a flood restoration expert involved. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

Your Toilet Overflowed...Now What?

6/21/2018 (Permalink)

From sewer damage and a malfunctioning toilet to foreign objects and too much toilet paper, an overflowing toilet can happen to anyone.

It's the last thing you want to happen, but sometimes you can't avoid it—your home in Mesa, AZ, has a flooded toilet. Whether it's from sewer damage, clogged pipes, or a malfunctioning toilet, there's still a mess to clean up. So, what do you do? Follow these four steps.

1. Turn off the water. The first thing to do is twist the turn-off valve located at the base of your toilet to stop the flow of water. If your toilet doesn't have one or you're unable to twist it completely, remove the tank lid and place the "ball" or "float" into a resting position until water ceases to fill. You should also ensure there are no electronics, cords, or outlets exposed to the water. If there are, leave the room immediately and use the circuit breaker to turn off the electricity.

2. Check for obvious obstructions. A mass of toilet paper or a foreign object may have been mistakenly flushed. Use a toilet plunger and attempt to remove the blockage. If there is no blockage, sewer damage may be the cause of your issue.

3. Clean the area. Clean up as much as you can, taking extra care to treat anything the toilet water touched. If the toilet is not on the ground floor, check the room below it, too. Make sure to wear rubber gloves and thoroughly wash any bath mats or towels that got wet in the process. If something was damaged by the water and you're unable to clean it yourself, contact a local water damage restoration company to avoid throwing these items away. They'll have the tools needed to restore cabinets, fabrics, and other items you can't clean properly.

4. Call the professionals. If you're unable to fix your flooded toilet yourself, call for help. If a plumber can't locate the source of the overflow, you may need to contact the sewage company directly.

From sewer damage and a malfunctioning toilet to foreign objects and too much toilet paper, an overflowing toilet can happen to anyone. Follow these four steps to save your home—and yourself—from unnecessary stress. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROmesaeast.com/.

How Fast can SERVPRO arrive?

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

1 – 4 – 8.

At SERVPRO of Mesa East at (480) 835-6688. We are committed to serving you 24/7, 365. We are also committed to contacting you in a timely manner, showing up promptly, and notifying your insurance company of the status of the loss efficiently and quickly.

The numbers 1-4- 8 have a particular meaning to us. Our commitment, when called by an Insurance Carrier or by our Call Center for a loss, is to contact the property owner within 1 hour of the First Notice of Loss, be on site within 4 hours, and contact the Insurance Carrier within 8 hours to report on the condition of the loss.

We are judged on these three numbers, but frequently we beat these numbers. It is not unusual for us to call the property owner within minutes of receiving a lead and for us to be on site within an hour. We understand how important it is to be there to start the drying process. We care about your property and look forward to helping you at every opportunity.

"Water, Water Everywhere/Nor any Drop to Drink"

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

“Water, Water Everywhere/ Nor any Drop to Drink” these famous lines from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem, “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” are spoken by a sailor on a becalmed ship, in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by salt water and speak to the desperation one feels when events are out of control.

We at SERVPRO of Mesa East are familiar with helping property owners who feel that way and can help them get back in control with our experienced technicians and our state of the art drying equipment. We practice the Science of Drying….and we specialize in restoring your property. We are a “One Stop Shop” – a company who can dry your property, take care of your contents, and rebuild if necessary. Call us at 480-835-6688 and we will be there 24/7, 365.

Three Steps You Should Be Taking Now To Protect Your Business

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

It takes a lot of time, money and devotion to operate a business.

The last thing you want to worry about is water damage after a flood. However, preparing for the elements is just one more thing business owners need to be mindful of in Mesa, AZ. Keep the following tips in mind before a flood happens so that you can get things back to normal if it does happen someday.

1. Protect Your Property
Have your building professionally evaluated before a storm hits to determine how strong it is and how well it will stand up to the winds and water. Special shutters can be purchased to shield doors and windows from debris. Also, have a supply of sandbags to keep the flood water from getting in. Additionally, you should secure all large furniture and utilities, such as water heaters or gas tanks. You should remove any branches or trees that could potentially fall during a storm. Do not forget digital belongings as well. You should back up all data and important business information in advance of a large storm. Any physical documents should be secured in a water proof safe if they are to be kept on the site of your business.

2. Understand Your Coverage
You must be responsible with your insurance before a flood hits. You should have property insurance, so you can repair any damages dealt during the flood, as well as worker’s compensation insurance to cover any injuries which could happen on your property. You can also consider getting business interruption insurance to be compensated for the time your business will be closed in the event of a damaging storm.

3. Be Prepared for Restoration
You should already have a reliable and trustworthy restoration company picked out before the storm hits. That way, you will already have a plan in place for beginning repairs for water damage and flooded parts of the building. It is amazing how much damage flood water can cause, which is why it is important to think about these tips before the big one hits.

Storm Preparation Tips for Mesa, AZ

4/29/2018 (Permalink)

Is your organization’s Mesa, AZ, office ready to take on flood water? Even when campuses are built on high ground, leadership teams should be proactive about reducing the potential impact of natural forces on business operations. Here are four particular areas of interest.

1. Keep Your Data Safe.

Are all of your drives encrypted and backed up? Can your IT department provide proof of this? Water damage could open the door to unauthorized access, compromising intellectual property. Even when not in the wrong hands, wet hardware can result in data loss. Networks often become vulnerable to attacks when configurations change unexpectedly.

2. Protect Critical Hardware.

Depending on where your business is located, network equipment and desktop computers should be protected with voltage stabilizers and UPS units. These devices prevent unexpected outages and surges from causing harm to delicate circuits. Grounding rods should be regularly inspected to ensure performance in the presence of lightning or flood water.

3. Implement Redundancy to Maintain Uptime.

You may have customers around the world who rely on your services. If your systems are down for even a few minutes, you could end up with several complaints and a reputation hit. A flooded building without a robust redundancy plan has the power to take a business down. For this reason, backup generators and remote mirroring tend to be wise investments.

4. Give Employees Remote Access.

Managers should think through the consequences of not having offices available for days or weeks after a disaster. Some organizations have met this challenge by providing key people with laptop computers that can access corporate systems from practically any internet connection. When workers are in the habit of taking these devices home with them, they’ll be ready to work from a remote location in case of emergency.

Good plans are needed for businesses to bear the impact of flood water. Your efforts to reduce risks now will be appreciated if you have to later contact a restoration company to get your site into shape.

Factors Affecting Your Cleanup Timeline

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

When anything happens to your home in Mesa, AZ, it is natural to want the problem fixed as soon as possible.

If your home floods as the result of bursting pipes, however, the restoration process can take quite a few days. If the water damage is minimal and only affects surfaces that can be easily dried, water restoration specialists could finish the process in as little as three to five days. Other factors, however, complicate matters.

Water Contamination Level

If the water that floods your home is sanitary, the primary task involved in cleanup is merely drying. More intense levels of contamination, however, may result in additional cleaning processes, delaying the restoration’s end date. When it comes to flooding, there are three categories of water:

• Category 1 – clean water from faucets or supply lines
• Category 2 – contaminated water from bursting pipes carrying appliance or fixture outtake
• Category 3 – sewer water or outside floodwater

The more contaminated the water is, the longer the cleanup process is likely to be.

Extent of Damage

Repair technicians can fix a broken pipe, but if the leak is significant, items affected may have to be replaced. If you have wood floors, they are likely to buckle and warp, requiring them to be removed. If your walls are saturated by standing water, the repair process is going to take longer while the section of the wall below the flood cut is removed and replaced. Any time the structural integrity of an area of your home is compromised by water damage, the timeline for fixing the problem will be extended.

While it is necessary to start the restoration process quickly after you discover bursting pipes in your home, the process itself may not be as fast as you would like for it to be. Flood restoration specialists in Mesa, AZ, can give you an estimate of the time it will take to complete repairs on your home. Whether it takes a few days or a few weeks, it is important that the restoration be thorough.

Categories of Water Damage

1/16/2018 (Permalink)

Carpet Delamination- necessary to remove the carpet

There are three categories of water damage.

Category 1 - Water from a clean source (Supply Line)
Category 2 - Water that is somewhat contaminated (Washing Machine)
Category 3 - Water that is grossly contaminated (Sewer Backup)

Some insurance companies require drying in place for Cat 1 losses, meaning the restoration company isn't allowed to remove carpet and padding, etc., without approval.  There are some cases on Cat 1 losses where it's OK to remove the carpet, such as if the carpet is stained or delaminated.  SERVPRO of Mesa East will work with your adjuster directly and follow all of their guidelines while doing demo and any other necessary work.  We make it hassle-free for you as we are always in constant contact with your adjuster to get all approvals and make sure everyone is on the same page.