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How to Repair Drywall Affected by Water Damage

Post author By HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration
Post date November 20, 2024
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How to Repair Drywall Affected by Water Damage

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Water damage in your home or business can develop gradually or occur suddenly. Regardless of how it happens, it’s essential to address it immediately. Delaying repairs can lead to further deterioration, resulting in higher restoration costs.

Drywall is particularly vulnerable to water damage because it is a porous material. Water-damaged drywall may experience issues such as cracks, peeling, or buckling, which can evolve into both cosmetic and structural problems. Prolonged water damage also increases the risk of mold and mildew growth. If you notice water damage in your drywall, ensure it is repaired promptly to prevent these complications.

How Do I Know If I Have Water Damage in My Walls?

Remember that drywall is porous and can retain moisture even after the water appears to have dried. In cases of flooding, whether from overflowing bathtubs or burst pipes, it’s safe to assume your drywall is compromised, risking mold and mildew growth if untreated.

For smaller leaks, damage might not be immediately obvious. Watch for signs like peeling walls, cracking paint, bubbling wallpaper, soft drywall, musty odors, or stains. Such issues often arise from slow pipe leaks, aging seals around doors and windows, or clogged gutters.

What You Should Know Before Repairing Water-Damaged Drywall

If you decide to repair the water-damaged drywall yourself, there are a few things you need to know:

If overhead flooding has led to wet drywall, there’s a risk that the ceiling is compromised and could collapse. In such cases, it’s essential to hire a professional water restoration company to address the damage.
If the damage is caused by sewage backup, you will need to call a professional to address the damage. This type of cleaning may end up involving biohazard materials which should be handled by a professional.
You will need to find and address the source of the water or moisture. Get rid of the standing water and dry out any water-damaged areas. If you leave the water sitting, you will end up with more damage to your drywall.

What is the Process of Repairing a Water-Damaged Wall?

First, clear the area by removing water-soaked furniture and building materials. Also, remove wet carpet and padding, or at least pull it back to allow the floor to air out. When you are ready to repair the drywall, follow these steps:

1. Be Safe

If the drywall needs to be removed, make sure that you wear the proper respiratory protection in case your drywall has asbestos. Also, make sure to switch off the circuit breakers and remove any non-affected electrical outlets before any wall material is torn out.

2. Get Rid of Any Damaged Materials

You will need to figure out how much drywall needs to be cut out. If the flooding level was less than two and a half feet, then the wall material needs to be removed up to a height of four feet. This will help when you reinstall the full sheets of drywall.

If you have more than two and a half feet of damage to your drywall, then you will need to remove the drywall up to eight feet or to the ceiling junction, whichever is higher.

If you cannot tell the level of damage, inspect the drywall and remove areas that are cracked, crumbling, or sagging. If the wall is damp, and the water is clean (such as from a burst pipe) you can try to dry it. You may need to remove the damaged wall studs, cabinets, and even ceilings and cut out damaged portions of the drywall.

3. Cut the Drywall

It is important to follow the proper steps to cut out sections of water-damaged drywall. Here are a few things you will need to do:

Mark the wall properly with a straight line right above where the water has stopped wicking using a chalk line.
You will need to cut along the chalk line about one-half to three-quarters through the drywall using a utility knife.
Remove any damaged portions of the drywall by knocking a small hole in it with a hammer. Then gently pull the drywall out.
Once the drywall has been cut out and removed, make sure to take the insulation out. If it is made of plastic foam, you can leave it as it is and let it dry.

4. Dry Out the Wall

Once you remove all the water-damaged drywall, it is important to then dry the area around and inside the wall. Make sure to use specialized blowers and dehumidifiers and open all windows and doors. Using fans will help increase the airflow behind the walls and they should be running for at least two days so that the studs and flooring can fully dry.

5. Properly Sanitize and Deodorize

Use a chemical sanitizer to help prevent mold and bacteria between the walls. Do not use bleach as it will not help. If there are residual odors, make sure to use an ozone machine and keep it running for at least eight hours. While the machine is running, leave the area.

6. Replace the Water-Damaged Drywall

Once you’ve sanitized the area, you will need to hang new drywall. Make sure to accurately measure the size of the hole so that you know how much to cut out from the new sheet of drywall. Put four drywall clips around the hole and secure each one using a drywall screw.

Then insert the drywall pieces and secure them into the drywall clips. Do not tighten the drywall screws too much. Instead, use drywall tape and joint compound and blend it with the existing drywall. Then as a final step, you will need to sand the area a few times to smooth the wall surface out.

7. Paint the Restored Drywall

Make sure that the joint compound is fully dry and then paint the wall with a primer so that it can seal properly. Then you can paint the whole wall so that you have a fully uniform color.

Professional Water Damage Restoration

Leaks behind walls and above ceilings can significantly damage the drywall because its porous nature allows the water to spread through it. It is very important to recognize signs of water damage to the drywall, such as bubbling, sagging, stains, and wet spots so you can take action before the water causes more serious structural damage.

Following the steps outlined above can help you repair water-damaged drywall, but some situations may be too complicated to handle yourself. If you experience extensive water damage to your drywall or do not feel confident in addressing the problem yourself, you can reach out to our professionals at HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration.

At HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration, we offer a full range of water damage restoration services to address issues such as leaks that lead to water-damaged ceilings and drywall. Our technicians can identify the source of the water and uncover the full extent of the water damage to determine the best course of action. We used advanced drying equipment to thoroughly dry affected drywall and we can also remove and replace drywall that has been heavily damaged.

You can call HydroForce 24/7 at (630) 835-0862 if you need professional water damage restoration services in the Chicago, IL area.

2709 W Fulton St Suite 4N, Chicago, IL 60612
8918 S Octavia Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455

2024 © Copyright HydroForce Cleaning and Restorations – All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | 630-835-0862

Tags property damage guide, water damage restoration

Fire and smoke damage restoration

How Space Heaters Can Cause a Fire in Your Home

Post author By HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration
Post date October 15, 2024
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How Space Heaters Can Cause a Fire in Your Home

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When the weather turns cold, it’s delightful to increase the heat, enjoy the warmth of a fireplace, or cozy up with an electric blanket or space heater. However, it’s crucial to ensure that space heaters are kept clear of any nearby objects to prevent potential fire hazards. This article will explore the different types of electric heaters available today, how they can pose fire risks, safety guidelines for using space heaters, and who to contact for professional fire damage cleanup.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is the leading cause of fires in the United States. These incidents can result in significant property damage, injuries, and even fatalities. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that space heaters are responsible for approximately 1,200 fires annually. While electric space heaters tend to be more expensive than combustion models, they are safer for indoor use.

Types of Electric Space Heaters

There are several types of electric space heaters available, and each type can cause fires differently. Understanding the different kinds of space heaters on the market is good for understanding and preventing fires caused by space heaters.

The following are the different types of electric space heaters and how they can cause a fire:

Ceramic heaters: Ceramic heaters contain an electric element enclosed within a glass envelope capable of reaching high temperatures.
Convection heaters: Convection heaters take in the air from the room and heat it through a heating element before recirculating the air.
Fan heaters: Fan heaters, also known as forced convection heaters, use an electric fan to enhance airflow, heat generation, and distribution.
Oil heaters: Oil heaters are a type of convection heater that uses an electric heating element to heat oil contained within the heater.

Why do space heaters cause fires?

Understanding why space heaters can cause fires is essential. To help prevent space heater fires, it’s important to recognize the various risks associated with these appliances.

Amount of Current Drawn During Use

One of the primary causes of a space heater fire is an increase in electrical current beyond the appliance’s designated capacity. For electric heaters, the standard rating is 1500 watts, equivalent to 12.5 amps. This represents the safety limit for your home, assuming the power cord is functioning correctly. A defective power cord can lead to a fire hazard. Therefore, it’s crucial to consult the manufacturer’s instructions to determine whether the electrical space heater should be plugged directly into an outlet or if it can safely be used with an extension cord. Following these guidelines can help prevent fires by avoiding the overheating of extension cords.

Proximity to Combustibles

When using a space heater, it’s crucial to ensure that it is kept away from any combustible materials to prevent fires. Maintain a clearance of at least three feet from combustible items such as paper or fabrics. While some modern heaters come with safety features like automatic shut-off when they tip over or overheat, they cannot detect nearby items that may overheat and ignite.

Guidelines for the Safe Use of Space Heaters

Space heaters are great for providing additional heat on cold days, but they must be used safely to reduce the risk of fires. Here are some safety guidelines you should follow when using them:

If you think your space heater is damaged, do not use it.
Before you start using the heater, make sure to check the heater itself, including the cord and plug, to see if it has any damage.
Always make sure to follow all operation and maintenance instructions from the manufacturer.
Check www.SaferProducts.gov to see if your electric heater has been recalled.
Make sure you never leave a heater operating while unattended, especially while you are sleeping.
Always keep combustible materials including sofas, curtains, paper, and bed sheets three feet away from the front, top, and sides of the heater.
The heater plug should always fit tightly into the electrical outlet. If this is not the case, do not use the outlet to power the heater as this increases the risk of a fire.
When you are using the heater, check often if the heater plug, cord, wall outlet, or outlet faceplate is hot. Stop using the heater immediately if they are hot to touch. You should then have an electrician check or replace the plug or the outlet. If you notice the cord is hot, make sure to disconnect the heater.
Never use extension cords or plug strips unless you are sure that the rating exceeds the heater’s power requirements.
The heater should be put on a stable, level surface and it should not be placed in an area where it could be knocked over.
Any heater you purchase should have been tested by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL). Underwriters Laboratories (UL) is a commonly recognized NRTL in the US.
A space heater power cord should never be placed under rugs or carpets as this increases the risk of a fire.
To avoid electrical shocks and electrocutions, keep electric space heaters away from water and make sure never to touch an electric heater if it is wet.

Professional Fire Damage Cleanup

Space heaters can help make a home more comfortable on the coldest winter days, but they are also a fire hazard if not used correctly. When using a space heater, make sure the cord is unobstructed and that the heater itself is at least three feet away from combustibles in every direction. If you notice any type of problem with your space heater, stop using it immediately. You should also never leave a space heater unattended.

Despite taking the necessary precautions, there is still a chance that a space heater can cause a fire. When this happens, you need to call the trusted professionals of HydroForce Cleaning Systems.

HydroForce provides a full range of fire damage restoration services to help restore homes and buildings that have been damaged by a fire, no matter the cause. Our technicians use advanced methods and equipment to clean up smoke and soot, repair structural damage, and remove smoke odors to return your property to its pre-fire condition. You can call HydroForce Cleaning Systems at (630) 835-0862 for emergency fire damage restoration services throughout the Chicago, IL area.

2709 W Fulton St Suite 4N, Chicago, IL 60612
8918 S Octavia Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455

2024 © Copyright HydroForce Cleaning and Restorations – All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions | 630-835-0862

Tags fire damage restoration

Mold Remediation

How to Test Yourself for Mold Exposure

Post author By HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration
Post date May 30, 2024
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How to Test Yourself for Mold Exposure

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When residing in a home that is infested with mold, it is important to test for mold exposure. Serious health conditions, like mold toxicity, can result upon breathing in mold. Homeowners who are concerned about mold exposure should get themselves tested at a doctor’s office.

How common is mold?

Mold is naturally occurring fungi that is prevalent in the environment. The spores eat away at decayed materials, like dead trees and leaves, thereby supporting the important process of decomposition. Mold requires few nutrients to survive, making many places habitable spots.

Three nutrients are necessary to support mold colonies: a constant water source, organic materials, and darkness. A dripping water pipe produces enough moisture to feed spores. Organic materials range from clothing to carpets and drywall. When these nutrient sources combine with darkness, mold thrives.

Water damaged homes, thereby, are most susceptible to mold outbreaks. Mold colonies can develop within as little as 24 to 48 hours after exposure to moisture. Under consistently damp conditions and with a nearby food source, mold spreads rapidly and infests the home.

What is mold toxicity?

Of the 100,000 species of mold, some are more harmful than others. Mold emits mycotoxins, which are toxins that mold spores naturally produce. Sensitive individuals who are exposed to mold and are unable to eliminate the mycotoxins from their bodies experience mold toxicity.

The mold toxicity that results when the body is unable to rid itself of the mycotoxins damages the body’s systems. Mold toxicity is also known as mold illness or Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). Airborne mold spores can enter a person via their skin, respiratory tract, or GI tract.

Who is most vulnerable to mold toxicity?

Mold toxicity mostly affects people who are especially sensitive to mold. Not everyone experiences symptoms of mold illness or reacts, though all individuals are exposed to mold and its mycotoxins. Certain factors or conditions must be present in order for symptoms to appear.

Mold toxicity affects individuals who have a family history of asthma or allergies. People who are diagnosed with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other respiratory conditions are likely to be sensitive to mold and may experience mold illness.

High exposure to mold spores through the environment can lead to mold toxicity. This occurs in industries, such as carpentry, greenhouses, and millwork, where mold concentrations are highest. Similarly, working in a building exposed to high moisture levels increases the risk.

Living in a home with high humidity levels (above 50%) encourages mold and mold illness. Damp areas, such as bathrooms, are prone to mold growth. When windows and doors are tightly sealed, they can trap moisture and block the ventilation needed to prevent mold.

What are symptoms of mold toxicity?

People who develop mold toxicity show several symptoms. Some common mild symptoms are coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and sore throat. Affected individuals may experience runny noses, watery eyes, and sinus congestion. Others suffer asthma attacks, nosebleeds, and skin rashes.

Severe symptoms can occur, especially in immune-compromised people. These include brain fog, fatigue, changes in mood, and headaches. Individuals may suffer memory loss, liver and kidney issues, and digestive issues. Mold toxicity symptoms can overlap with existing health conditions, making diagnosis difficult.

How do individuals test themselves for mold exposure?

Experiencing symptoms of mold illness, whether mild or severe, should prompt individuals to test themselves for mold exposure. Testing is also recommended when mold is smelled or seen in the home. Musty scents may emerge or staining on walls may develop—both signs of mold growth.

A physician can order tests to determine if mold toxicity is present. Inflammation occurs alongside mold toxicity. Respiratory disease often results when mycotoxins are prevalent indoors and act as pro-inflammatory mediators. A mycotoxin test can be performed to check for toxins in the urine.

Alternately, a blood test might be ordered at the doctor’s office. The blood sample is taken and sent to a laboratory to measure the number of antibodies present in the bloodstream. The count of antibodies indicates the immune system’s sensitivity to various mold species.

How do homeowners address a mold infestation?

The first line of treatment after mold illness is to reduce exposure to the indoor mold. Homeowners must locate and repair the moisture source, without which mold cannot flourish. This may mean fixing a roof leak, a leaky pipe, or improving the home’s ventilation.

Maintaining ideal humidity levels in the home is also key to preventing mold growth and alleviating existing mold illness symptoms. Humidity levels should be kept lower than 50 percent. Be extra-cautious during the summer months and in humid climates.

Mold Remediation Services

Eliminate an existing mold infestation with professional help from HydroForce Cleaning & Restoration, an efficient, local mold remediation company. We provide thorough mold removal services in residential homes and commercial properties, returning them to a clean, habitable, and mold-free condition.

Our highly skilled team of technicians arrives quickly to assess the extent of mold growth and develop a mold remediation plan. We contain the affected spaces to prevent cross-contamination to other parts of the home or business. Specialists begin the cleanup process by first fixing the water source.

Removing mold spores in the air is a central part of our process. We run HEPA filtration equipment to clean the air and filter mold spores. When mold infests surfaces, our techs use HEPA vacuums and cleaning products to remove the spores and stains.

Anti-microbial solutions are applied to further treat affected areas. Any unsalvageable building materials are properly disposed of. The property is thoroughly dried, air quality is tested, and a final inspection is performed. We work with your property insurance company to accelerate claims.

HydroForce Cleaning & Restoration is Chicagoland’s first choice for quality and efficient mold removal. As a comprehensive service, we remove hidden and visible mold from your property. Same-day appointments are available for emergencies. Call our Bridgeview, Illinois, office as soon as you spot mold.

2709 W Fulton St Suite 4N, Chicago, IL 60612
8918 S Octavia Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455

Tags mold issues, mold remediation

water damage water restoration

How to Fix a Leaking Water Heater

Post author By HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration
Post date May 24, 2024
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How to Fix a Leaking Water Heater

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A water heater is an essential part of the home. It’s responsible for creating hot water for use in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. However, when a water heater springs a leak, it can lead to costly water damage. It is crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage. This includes shutting off the water, identifying the source of the leak, securing leaky connections, and fixing or replacing faulty valves. While some repairs can be done by homeowners, it is important to prioritize safety and consult a professional if needed.

How common are water leaks?

In the US, household water leaks are common. About 10,000 gallons of water are wasted each year due to leaks. When plumbing leaks go unfixed, 32,850 gallons of water are wasted. A water heater leak is also a part of these dismal statistics.

How much does it cost to repair the water heater?

Fixing a leaky water heater can vary in price. On average, homeowners spend as low as $90 to upwards of $1,700. The actual repair price depends on the cost of the parts, the water heater technician’s charges, and how long it takes to perform the repair.

How much does it cost to fix water damage?

The cost to repair a leaky water heater is minimal compared to the price of fixing the extensive water damage that results. The average price for water damage restoration is $3,638. However, homeowners can pay as high as $15,000 depending on the source of the water and extent of damage.

How do homeowners fix a leaky water heater?

The cost of repairing water damage makes it clear that addressing a leaky water heater is a priority. Homeowners can tackle the repair themselves when the leak involves replacing a broken part. Some repairs are simple and inexpensive. Potential fixes can extend the life of the water heater for years.

Shut Off the Water

Upon discovering the leak, close the water shutoff valve. Turning off the water prevents additional cold water from flowing in and ruining the tank. Ensure the water is turned off by opening the hot water faucet elsewhere in the home; hot water shouldn’t be flowing.

Pinpoint the Source of the Leak

Fix a leaky water heater by locating the source of the leak. The water supply lines above the water heater can leak, which cause it to appear like the leak stems from the tank. Water supply lines are notorious for wearing out long before the water heater needs replacing.

Secure Leaky Water Connections

The cold and hot water inlets connect to the tank. When either of these loosen, water leaks from the water heater. Tighten the connections with a pipe wrench. Turn off the power supply prior to performing this task, as working with a hot water outlet can be dangerous.

Tighten or Replace the Drain Valve

The drain valve at the bottom of the water heater can leak if it becomes loose over time. This valve allows the homeowner to drain the tank during routine maintenance, such as draining or flushing. Use a pipe wrench to tighten the valve and stop the leak.

Alternately, cap the drain valve with a hose cap to prevent water from dripping out. If the leak continues, the valve may need to be replaced by a professional plumber who will shut off the hot water and drain down the water heater before installing the replacement valve.

Loosen the Temperature and Pressure Release Valve

The temperature or pressure inside the water heater can rise to high levels, prompting the temperature and pressure release valve to kick in. The valve can become stuck in a partially open position, leading to a leak from the water heater.

Homeowners are advised to consult a licensed plumber to repair a temperature and pressure release valve that has become stuck. Safety is paramount since handling this valve involves leaks, temperature, and extremely high pressure. A mistake can lead to serious hazards.

Replace the Water Heater

Water escapes through the bottom of the tank when the inner components begin to leak. If the tank itself is ruptured, the leak will be significant, leading to a major flood instead of a steady drip. The leak can’t be fixed and replacing the water heater is the only option.

Regular and preventative maintenance can extend a water heater’s lifespan. Delay the onset of internal water heater leaks by installing a powered anode rod, adding a water heater pan that catches water and reduces water damage to the surrounding areas and cleaning the water heater parts.

Fixing a leaky water heater can be a DIY task. However, homeowners may prefer to consult a plumber due to the risks of electric shocks, burns, and water damage. Prioritize safety when repairing the water heater by following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

When a leaky water heater causes extensive flooding or even a stubborn drip, significant water damage results. Even a water heater that drips once per second spills over eight gallons of water per day. Professionally repair existing water damage with the help of HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration.

Our crews of skilled water damage cleanup technicians arrive promptly, locate the source of the leak and begin the restoration process. We set up powerful water extraction machinery to eliminate all excess moisture, both hidden and visible, from the property. Our drying equipment fully dries the area.

Along with air movers, industrial-grade dehumidifiers are placed throughout the water damaged spaces to accelerate the drying process. Thorough drying and an application of anti-microbials prevent mold colonies from developing. We also deodorize all surfaces and steam sanitize contaminated materials.

Specialists at HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration work quickly to return your water damaged home to its pre-loss state. Water damage restoration is typically completed in three days but varies depending on the severity and extent of the damage. We work with your homeowner’s insurance on claims, too.

Water damage spreads fast, compromising the structural integrity of the home and jeopardizing safety. Consult HydroForce Cleaning and Restoration for emergency service 24 hours a day. We’re proud to serve Chicago, Illinois, and the surrounding areas. Call today for expert, efficient water damage cleanup.

2709 W Fulton St Suite 4N, Chicago, IL 60612
8918 S Octavia Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455

Tags mold issues, water damage, water damage restoration