FAQ

Yes, water damage is an emergency. Whether due to a burst pipe, appliance overflow, sewage backup, or flood, it can lead to electrical hazards, compromise structural integrity, and promote mold growth the longer it is left unaddressed.

Shut off the water source if possible, and turn off the electricity in affected areas if it is safe to do so.

Mold can develop within 72 hours after water damage and continue spreading if the ideal conditions are present, making swift action essential.

It starts with an assessment of the damage, followed by water extraction, drying and dehumidification, cleaning, and finally, repairs and restoration.

Most likely, yes. Smoke and soot residues from even a small fire can cause extensive damage to walls, ceilings and contents, and this residue will need to be professionally removed or damage and odor can worsen over time.

Water leftover from firefighting activities should be removed by professionals, since technicians are specially trained in both fire and water damage restoration using specialized equipment.

Minor fire damage involves light to moderate smoke and soot contained to just a portion of the building, requiring cleaning and deodorization with little repainting. Medium damage requires more aggressive cleaning with more repainting. Major damage means severe damage to contents and structural framing, often requiring emergency board up or roof tarping.

A specialist asks questions about the fire damage event to arrive quickly with the right equipment, then carefully inspects adjoining rooms to determine the extent of fire, smoke, and soot damage, which is crucial for developing a plan of action.

Acoustic leak detection uses sensitive ground microphones and acoustic leak correlators to pinpoint the exact location of leaks in pressurized water pipes without excavation.

An unusually high water bill combined with an odd water meter reading can indicate a leak, as can mold or mildew on non shower walls, or walls, flooring, and ceilings that are sagging, stained, or damaged.

The cost of a professional leak detection service is a fraction of what emergency excavation, pipe replacement, and water loss represent over time.

Once the general location of a leak is determined, a line tracer system introduces a small electric charge into the water line, making it possible to determine the exact spot of the leak.

No, it is not safe. Sewage contains dangerous bacteria, viruses, and toxins that can cause serious illness, and without professional grade protective gear and disinfectants, you risk exposing yourself and your family to health hazards.

Sewage exposure can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses, skin infections, eye irritation, and respiratory problems, with pathogens like E. coli, hepatitis A, and norovirus commonly found in contaminated water.

Even if a surface looks clean after scrubbing, harmful microorganisms can remain embedded in porous materials like carpets, drywall, and wood, and bleach or store bought disinfectants often are not enough to eliminate all contaminants.

Carpet and padding absorb sewage immediately, particle board and laminate flooring swell and deteriorate, drywall wicks contamination up wall cavities, fiberglass insulation traps moisture and bacteria permanently, and upholstered furniture cannot be adequately decontaminated.

 Surprisingly, many items subjected to heat, smoke, and soot can be cleaned and restored to their original state using specialized methods that effectively remove extensive smoke and soot residues. However, smoke residue is corrosive and can damage internal wiring and circuit boards, so smoke exposed electronics should not be plugged in until a technician has inspected and cleaned them.

Yes. Wet smoke comes from smoldering, low heat fires like burning plastic or rubber, producing a dense, sticky residue that smears and is difficult to clean. Dry smoke is created by fast burning, high temperature fires typically fueled by paper or wood, leaving powdery ash that does not smear and is relatively easier to clean.

Soot burrows into fabric, upholstery, and appliances, and even if you manage to clean the damage safely, you may miss hidden residue and soot buildup.

Thermal fogging penetrates porous materials to neutralize odors, while ozone treatments destroy odor causing molecules at the chemical level. Professionals also inspect and clean HVAC units to stop re contamination since smoke and soot spread through ventilation systems.