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Water Remediation

6 Valuable Tips For the Business Owners to Protect Business From Water Damage

Water damage can be a major problem for businesses, leading to expensive repair costs and revenue losses. When disaster strikes, such as a broken pipe or flood, the consequences can have a lasting impact on your business operations. That’s why it’s important to protect yourself against water damage with preventive measures that address existing weaknesses in infrastructure. In this blog post we will share seven valuable tips business owners should consider implementing to keep their property safe from water damage and maintain peace of mind!

Inspect the drainage system of your business to check for any clogs or blockages

Taking preventive measures to protect your business against water damage is essential. One of the simplest and most effective ways to do this is to make sure that your drainage system is running properly. Inspecting the system regularly will help catch any clogs or blockages before they cause serious problems. Ensure that all drains are free from debris, clean the gutters and downpipes, and check for broken drains or pipe joints which might be allowing water to leak through. These steps can help reduce the risk of unexpected disaster within your business premises, so invest in regular checks for peace of mind.

Check the roof for any signs of damage, such as cracks or missing shingles

One of the best ways to prevent water damage in your business is to check around the roof for any signs of damage, such as cracked or missing shingles. Regular roof inspections are essential in order to make sure there are no weak spots that could leak, and routine maintenance like replacing missing shingles can go a long way in protecting your company from expensive repairs and restorations. Keeping an eye out for even small problems can help you stay ahead of any major issues that could arise, saving time and money in the long run.

Install sump pumps in areas prone to flooding

Preventing water damage is an integral part of running a business and there are many strategies that owners can use to avoid costly repairs. One simple but effective tip is to install sump pumps in any areas of the building that could be at risk of flooding. This doesn’t just include basements and crawlspaces, but also low-lying portions of grounds or even parking lots. Sump pumps can divert excess water away from your building, which will help protect it from the potential for damages and help guard against mold growth as well. Investing in them now can save businesses from dealing with immense disasters down the line.

Monitor plumbing systems for any signs of leaking pipes or weak seals

As a business owner, protecting your property from unanticipated flooding by water damage should be a top priority. Monitoring your plumbing system for any signs of leakage or weak seals is the best way to ensure that this does not happen. From checking for visible cracks in pipes to staying up-to-date on scheduled maintenance, you can avoid costly repairs and headaches from potential flooding. Regularly check your pipes and seals to make sure your business remains dry and Flood Free!

Use waterproof sealant around doors and windows to prevent water intrusion 

It’s an alarming reality for business owners, but water damage is one of the most common and costly issues facing commercial buildings! Fortunately, there are plenty of proactive measures you can take to protect your assets. One important tip is to be sure that doors and windows are properly sealed with a high-quality waterproof sealant. This will help keep any external moisture away from inside walls, creating a secure barrier against any potential water intrusions. Taking the time up front to seal these drafts and cracks can save you a world of hurt later on – don’t hesitate to add this important step to your regular maintenance routine!

Install a water alarm that will alert you in case of a leak

Installing a water alarm is a wise choice for any business owner worried about the risk of water damage in their building. These alarms are designed to connect to a main water supply, and can effectively alert operators of any leaks or rising water levels. By installing one of these alarms, you not only increase your chance of preventing damage from minor spills, but you can also rest assured knowing that if a bigger leak occurs, you will be alerted as soon as possible, giving you the opportunity to take action before the problem escalates. Ultimately, investing in a quality water alarm is one of the most effective ways to guarantee your property remains safe from unexpected floods and leaks.

Don’t let water damage disrupt your business and put your livelihood at risk. Our expert team of water damage restoration professionals in Tampa is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you mitigate the damage, restore your property, and get your business back up and running as quickly as possible.

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Water Remediation

5 Failsafe Ways to Repair Water Damaged Ceilings

Waking up to a water damaged ceiling is every homeowner’s nightmare. Not only is the damage unsightly, it can also lead to serious issues like mold growth and structural damage. The good news is that there are a few different ways to repair water damaged ceilings, and we’re here to tell you all about them!  Continue reading to learn the best ways to fix your Ceiling, so you can rest easy knowing your home is in good hands.

If the damage is small and localized, you can try to repair it yourself with a patch kit.

Repairing a water damaged ceiling doesn’t need to be a daunting task. If the damage is fairly small and localized, you can take care of it yourself by purchasing a patch kit. These kits contain all the necessary supplies like plaster and putty knife to help conceal the evidence and leave your ceiling looking as good as new. Repairing the damage on your own also eliminates any additional stress that comes with hiring a professional for this type of job. Depending on the size of the repair and if it requires more than just plaster, however, calling in an expert may be worth considering.

For bigger or more widespread damage, you’ll need to call in a professional.

When water damage from a leaking pipe or burst ceiling develops to a certain size and spreads, it’s time to leave the repair work to the professionals. Trying to tackle extensive damage alone can open you up to potential structural issues in your home, as well as further issues with mold growth. Call in water damage restoration experts in Tampa who will conduct an inspection of the area and provide effective, comprehensive repairs that ensure it is handled appropriately and effectively. It may be slightly more costly, but it’ll be worth it in the long run!

Remove any wet or damaged material from the ceiling

After water damage has been identified in the ceiling, the initial step is to rid the area of any and all wet or damaged material. This should be done carefully, as certain materials can be brittle or flimsy when wet. It is essential to begin the repair process by first clearing those affected and contaminated pieces from the ceiling; afterwards, you can assess which further steps are necessary for a complete repair. Careful removal of these damaged parts can minimize cost and time spent on further repairs and replacements, so it’s important that this initial step is not overlooked.

Once the area is dry, you can start repairing any cracks or holes with plaster or joint compound.

The tricky part about repairing water damaged ceilings is drying the area before you begin repairs. A good way to do this is by connecting a fan to the ceiling and allowing it to run until the portion of the ceiling is dry. Once you’re sure the area is dry, you can start filling any cracks or holes with plaster or joint compound. This will help ensure that further water damage doesn’t occur in the future while also making the ceiling look as good as new.

Finally, repaint the ceiling to match the rest of your walls and hide any evidence of damage!

Now that you’ve followed the necessary steps for repairing your water damaged ceiling, it is time to repaint it to match the rest of your walls. Depending on the type of paint used in the rest of your house, you may need to purchase a specific kind of paint to best adhere to your ceiling and hide any remaining evidence of water damage. You will want to make sure you take safety precautions when painting with ladders or scaffolding, as this is a prime opportunity for injury. Also, do not forget to protect furniture and flooring; drop cloths can save you from long-term cleaning solutions down the line! With patience and dedication, you can have a restored ceiling that will last you many years into the future.

If you need help with repairs or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help!

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Water Remediation

What To Do When have Water Damage

Whether it is from a broken pipe, heavy rains, busted hoses, or even back-flowing toilets, water can cause a lot of damage to your home if it is not dealt with quickly and efficiently. Unfortunate as it may be, water damage can happen to any of us at any time. According to estimates, the Tampa Bay Area alone typically reports above 15,000 water-based losses every year. On any particular day, about 20 homeowners in Hillsborough County return to their homes only to find busted hoses, leaking pipes, back-flowing toilets, and overflowing washing machines,

As a homeowner, there is only a handful of things as stressful as coming home to a water-damaged home. Not only is there the physical damage to contend with, but there is also the emotional rollercoaster of witnessing your most significant investment get ruined along with personal belongings.

What to do when you have water damage

Typically when you come home only to find it flooded, your initial reaction will be panic. However, you must quickly regain your composure since you must take quick and decisive action. Once you are calm, it is time to take action. Here is what to do.

1. Immediately call Lightning Restoration. Lightning Restoration is the number one water damage remediation and restoration company in Hillsborough County. Call us immediately you notice water damage since time is of the essence. The quicker the LR gets there, the more we will be able to save you money and damage content.

2. Shut off the water if possible. Turn off the water flow into your home if possible. If it is a broken pipe, close the valve and if it is a washing machine, unplug it from the wall outlet.

3. Switch off the power. Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Don’t do anything that will put you or your loved ones in danger. If you are concerned about electrical items in the water, you can shut the power off to the house with your main breaker. To save content, you can slide aluminum foil or saran wrap under the legs of furniture items. You can also use towels to soak up standing water while LR is en route to your home.

4. Rescue any valuable items. If possible, try to move any valuable or sentimental items to a safe, dry place. This step will help mitigate the amount of damage done and give you a sense of control during what can feel like a very chaotic time.

5. Keep the doors and windows closed. Florida is very humid, which may slow the drying process. Therefore, keep the windows and doors closed unless it is unseasonably cool outside, .

6. Lightning Restoration will be there immediately to take care of everything for you and establish a drying system in the house.

Who do you call for water damage?

Once you have taken the necessary steps to protect your home and belongings, it is time to call the professionals. Here is where the challenge comes in who do you call first? A water remediation company or your insurance company? While your initial instinct may be to contact your insurance company first, we highly recommend that you first call a remediation company such as Lightning Restoration.

Insurance companies are interested in one thing, saving money. They will always prioritize their interests which often does not line up with what is best for the homeowner. On the other hand, Lightning Restoration is always on the homeowner’s side. We prioritize the homeowner’s interests even during the insurance claim, ensuring they are fully taken care of during this difficult time.

About Lightning Restoration services

Since its establishment in 2006, Lightning Restoration has risen to become the premier restoration company within the Tampa Bay area. We specialize in fire, mold, & water remediation with proven procedures in cost efficiency and maximizing job time. We are also the most preferred vendor by hundreds of insurance carriers, insurance agents, property owners, and property management companies.

Our remediation and restoration services include:

  • 24/7 emergency water extraction
  • Moisture mapping and an immediate detailed assessment with an outline of remediation procedures.
  • Industrial grade drying equipment, including high-capacity air movers and dehumidifiers.
  • Professional assistance with your insurance claims process.

At Lightning Restoration, we understand that this is a stressful and challenging time for you, but rest assured that we are here to help. We guarantee excellent restorative cleaning services with effective, ongoing reporting and communication. Our technicians will arrive on the site within two hours of the initial call and provide a complete estimate, with photos, to the parties involved within 24-48 hours of completing the job.

Note. Throughout the insurance claim process, Lightning Restoration always takes the homeowner’s side to ensure they get the best possible outcome. In case of an emergency flooding in your house, call Lightning Restoration immediately and have someone truly on your side when it comes to your insurance claim.

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Water Remediation

The Dos and Don’ts of Home Water Damage Remediation

The goal is to prevent water damage, but accidents occur every day, even when we are being the most careful.  When water damage occurs, it is important to react quickly to stop the damage from getting worse.  Here are some helpful tips when dealing with home water remediation.  Remember that safety comes first.  In addition, if any of these tips put you or your loved ones in harms way, wait for the professionals to arrive. 

The Dos of Home Water Remediation

  • Try to stop the water flow.  Know where the shut-off valves are for your home. 
  • Remove as much excess water as possible with towels or a shop vac.
  • Towel dry wood furniture
  • Relocate all move-able items to a dry place
  • Slide foil or plastic wrap between the furniture and the floor
  • Pin up draperies and upholstery skirts
  • Contact an Expert immediately.  Water damage will continue to get worse, even after you suck up the standing water.  Experts know how to get your property clean and dry, with the least amount of secondary damage…like MOLD

The Don’ts

  • Stay away from contaminated (sewer) water.  Sewer water may contain bacteria, viruses, parasites and other harmful contaminates.
  • Don’t use electrical appliances or outlets in or near wet areas
  • Don’t use your household vacuum to extract water
  • Keep wet items away from any absorbent surfaces
  • Don’t turn on your heating and/or air conditioning system if you think water may have entered the ducts
  • Stay out of rooms if the ceiling is wet or sagging.  Ceiling drywall can contain heavy amounts of water which may collapse on you.
  • Don’t leave absorbent materials like boxes, papers or pillows in the wet area
  • Don’t let children or the elderly enter the affected areas

In short, at Lightning Restoration, we understand the importance of reacting quickly to water damage, for the safety of your family and to prevent Mold from growing. Because of this, we guarantee a 2-hour response time to any emergency call and offer a free evaluation/inspection on every call.