Sewage backup can mess your life up, Tips how to handle it!Let’s be honest, sewage issues are common. And the sooner they are addressed, the better. Here’s a fact we think everyone needs to know: sewage matter contains microbial germs and fungi that have adverse effects on all organisms around it. As humans, we are are prone to getting affected by the numerous diseases and microorganisms carried by contaminated sewage material. The wastewater in sewers and underground ducts should be transferred from one end to another by using effective environmental engineering methods. In the case of an unexpected pipe burt, it is always wise to inform authorities and call your local emergency sewage cleanup services to help you get things back in order as soon as possible. If the greywater contamination is exposed to the environment, it can drastically contaminate fresh air in surrounding areas. Uncovered sewage spills pollute the environment and affect your indoor and outdoor air quality. Below, is everything you need to know about sewage, possible issues that can arise, and how to efficiently solve them before they turn into a full blown disaster. But first, what is sewage?Good question. We’re glad you asked. In technical terms, sewage is any form of waste water that travels in properly designed channels and conveyors. Sewage water includes biological waste flushed by humans, water from domestic purposes, etc. Because of the nature of sewage lines, you can always expect to have an unwanted outbreak causing disturbances in your house, area, or even commercial set-ups. Whether it be our flush tanks or kitchen sinks, or even planters placed in the garden, they can all add up and cause blockage due to sewage. The sewage is classified upon its general characteristics, volume, and rate of discharge. Every sewage matter has a physical and chemical state, which adds to the toxic content, making it chemically and biologically unhealthy for human health. Being exposed to sewage matter has adverse effects on mental and physical health. It is always advisable to treat any sewage breakouts or blockages on a priority basis, and the cleanup process is best carried out by professionals who know what they are doing. After-all, you don’t want to pay to deal with recurring sewage issues, do you? But wait, what even is sewage contamination?Again, we’re super glad you asked. So, wastewater from bathrooms and laundries eventually ends up in polluted sewer pipelines. If you face sewage related problems often, chances are that the area you live in does not have proper sewage cleaners and maintenance supplies. In that case, the accumulated water starts developing fungi and other microbial germs, which degenerate water molecules and convert them into harmful compounds. The absolute lack of fresh air exchange due to pipelines being fully covered can lead to sewage contamination, which ends up affecting the quality of the pipes, eroding its internal surfaces. Sewage contamination can directly disturb your freshwater supplies, as contaminated water has a smirky and unpleasant smell, which readily diffuses through your entire house and neighborhood. Sewage mainly consists of water, biological waste, and chemicals from detergents. They all add up and form deadly compounds and mixtures that can affect your health and cause respiratory problems. Sewage contamination problems are just not limited to houses and apartments. The high influx of wastewater from public buildings and hotels increases the volume of stagnant water, leading to severe contamination. Sewage should be removed and disinfected to eliminate the chances of unwanted diseases. Chemicals such as ammonia, nitrates, Sulphur, and phosphorus add up to form sewage waste and release harmful gases in nature. When a sever is left exposed to a residential or commercial area, it causes environmental pollution and damages all vulnerable infrastructure and holdings. If the sewage is being removed and transported to landfill sites, it should be done according to standard operating procedures. Exposed and leftover sewage contains bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other microbial elements. Can Excessive Flooding Cause Sewage Backup?Excessive flooding and torrential rain can cause your sewer lines to back up. If your town is affected by long spells of rainfall, there is a high chance of your local sewers getting flooded and clogged often. Unexpected snowfalls and hail storms can also cause the water level to rise and drain into your local sewers and main lines. If you’re used to drinking water straight from the tap, here’s some news for you: bottled water is far more reliable in the worst flooding conditions, as there is a hundred percent chance that your freshwater line is contaminated and compromised. Unexpected rainfall and excessive flooding always cause problems for people living on the town's downstream side. Contaminated water and debris are more likely to accumulate in your underground sewer pipelines, causing more problems. If there is a high flux of incoming water, the reverse flow can penetrate your home's main sewer line and flood your basements and washrooms on the ground level. Water is a miscible liquid, which can easily flow and seep through minute openings and disturb your waterproof coatings. If a sewer backup is being caused due to excessive flooding, it would contain natural debris and much more than just your biological waste. How to know detect a clogged or compromised sewer line?If your main sewer line is compromised and clogged, you will eventually start noticing the slow wastewater runoff from drains in your washroom, garages, and kitchens and pick up on something being off. The flow of wastewater from surfaces would be slow, and you might hear gurgling sounds as water penetrates through the drain. When a sewer line is clogged, the waste and contaminated water flows in the reverse direction, penetrating your drains and into the kitchen and bathroom floors and is most likely to stir up chaos at your house. In the case of clogging, you would easily sense foul odors coming through your washroom drains How to perform a sewage cleanup?If you’ve somehow managed to come face to face with an uncertain situation, here’s a golden tip to remember: do not try to clean up the mess on your own--just don’t. Instead, it is advisable to call up a professional sewage cleanup services and let them handle the issue for you. Professional cleaners and disaster management services employ field experts who are well-versed in how to handle these situations and have gone through professional training to acquire their licenses. Looking for professional sewage cleanup services in Toronto? Our team won’t disappoint you! Contact us today. Here’s the thing; cleaning up remains and sewage by yourself might seem easy, but it is not! Proper handling of solid waste and sewage should be done before it has been transported or cleaned. We, humans, are prone to deadly diseases and viruses when exposed to sewage material and garbage. It is vital to treat all infected and affected areas to prevent biohazards such as parasites, mold, bacteria, fungi, and viruses. A simple sewer backup can cause many uncertain hassles and disturb your daily life. If the sewage has accumulated on your bathroom or kitchen floor, try to close that parameter before starting the proper sewage cleanup process: The mentioned Standard Operating Protocols should be followed to sustain the environment and complete the tedious sewage cleanup process:
What causes drains to get clogged?Clogging is caused due to complex particles, that accumulate within any surface and solidify. Problems due to clogging are experienced in kitchen drains, washroom gutters, and general sewers. Usually, we do not dispose of the remaining food in garbage chutes--like we probably should, and instead, we prefer dumping them in the sink, which ends up, well, not somewhere it was supposed to. Bathroom accessories, such as sanitary napkins, and tissues are dumped into flush tanks instead of dustbins, which get jammed in pipe fittings and cause severe problems. Domestic waste accumulates on the internal surface, leading to the clogging of drains and sewers. Things like meaty and greasy food deposits can cause instant coagulation. Seasoned coffee grounds could expand and form uncompressible lumps if not correctly drained. Bones, veggies, and poultry can add up to the mixture, causing severe clogging issues. Besides, food particles, napkins, toilet tissue rolls, razor blades, bottle caps, and hair strands can easily cause a sewage backup. Every daily use item should be disposed off properly to avoid drainage issues and uncertain sewer clogging. The excessive use of draining pipes and dishwashers can also cause clogging, as food complex food substances require sufficient time to break and travel along the sewer lines. It is always recommended to install a modern and fully equipped plumbing systems that are efficient at their jobs. A word on health risks caused by sewage backupSewage backups are a serious concern, and should be addressed on a priority basis. If a sewage backup affects a home or an entire vicinity, professional sewage backup services must be immedietly called. A contaminated sewage backup contains infected biohazards, which can quickly transfer via nostrils and mouth through inhalation. Bacterial fungi can start affecting human skin, causing rough patches and skin diseases. Contaminated sewage backup can cause severe health problems such as Hepatitis, Dermatitis, Weils disease, Legionnaires Disease, Gastroenteritis, Allergic Alveolitis, and Asthama. The spread of bacterial microbes is likely to infiltrate through the respiratory tract, causing breathing and respiratory problems. Senior citizens and kids are most at risk when a sewage backup occurs in homes or nearby areas. The ones having weak respiratory tracts are advised to wear protective masks and take safety precautions. Parasites, mold, bacteria, fungi, and viruses are found in contaminated sewage waste. Untreated sewage waste damages vital organs; the Liver, Kidneys, and bloodstream. Pathogens from sewage waste can seep through skin pores, causing itching and patches on your skin. Sewer gas poisoning is widespread in areas, which are affected by severe flooding and rainfalls. Hydrogen sulfide is a poisonous gas released from contaminated sewage waste and smells like rotten eggs. Sewer gas causes instant eye irritation, nausea, and difficulty breathing. Is exposure to black water harmful?Blackwater is composed of chemicals and biological wastes, including feces, urine,and anal cleansing water. Blackwater contains pathogens and other microbial substances which can directly affect your health and property. Wastewater is a composition of blackwater and grey-water. If the blackwater is not treated immediately, it may cause severe health concerns and can sometimes even result in death. To remove blackwater and its bacteria, you need professional disinfectant and cleaning services, where providers can make adequate use of chemical acids to neutralize the impact. Exposure to blackwater can sometimes even cause deady infections and complications due to parasites and bacteria. How to prevent your property during uncertain sewage backups?People must run quality checks on their basements and foundations in a severe flooding situation and check for cracks or seepage patches. Bitumen coats should be applied beforehand to waterproof the ground surfaces and basements in contact with the ground. Reduce greasy washing products such as oil containers and utensils, which can go down the mainline and intensify the sewage backup situation. Check through all plumbing fixtures, raise all flush tanks, washing machines, and sinks in your basement. Install water metering fixtures to keep a close check on water inflow and outflow from your property. When you know your main sewer line is compromised, use water effectively, and refrain from washing cars in the garage. Sewage Backup PreventionWith time, people must ensure to update their plumbing systems and shift towards mechanical working systems. If you have an extended courtyard in the back of your house, avoid planting trees that can spread up roots and eventually disturb your sewage pipeline, causing severe clogging. Maintain and repair your concealed pipe fittings, replace old and rusted pipes with new PVC plastic pipes. PVC plastic fitting and pipes are highly reliable and durable. Always keep the emergency sewer clean, which is ideal for situations caused by excessive flooding and thunder rain storms. Get your internal sewer system timely inspected by professional plumbers and engineers, clean grease, grass, and debris accumulated with time. Refrain from connecting areaway drain fixtures or pumps from sump tanks to the sewer line. Permanently repair and replace plumbing fixtures that are leaking or are compromised due to any fault.Installation of a backwater prevention valve is extremely vital;prevention valves allow wastewater to flow out of your sanitary lines and do not allow water to reverse back into the pipes. Is sewage backup covered under homeowners insurance?Only a few insurance companies cover sewage backup under home insurance policies if only the payer has added extra benefits under his premium amount. People living in flood-prone areas are catered under homeowners insurance claims, where they pay an increased premium amount which is likely to be claimed for renovation purposes. A homeowners insurance coversdamages done by water from sewer or drains. Structural damages and repair costs can be claimed under your homeowners' insurance benefits. Why is sanitization important in sewage cleanup?The essential process of sanitization includes sanitization of the floor, wall, and external surfaces. All affected surfaces are thoroughly washed with hot steam water, disinfectants, and other chemicals. Microbial bacteria are microscopic, cannot be seen under the naked eye, and can accumulate on any surface. Disinfectants must penetrate through tiny pores and eliminate bacterial settlements. Sodium hypochlorite, known as bleach, is commonly used as a disinfectant to sanitize almost all surfaces. Sewage backup produces harmful toxins and gases which settle into furniture, wood, and other materials. It is mandatory to have a sanitized environment before returning to everyday life. Who can help In sewage cleanup?Sewage cleanup is a very tedious and challenging process. You need to examine the situation first and then close the entire area for the local public. Sewage cleanup can take days and extended person-hours to revive the area and clean up contaminated sewage waste and debris. Damage control and restoration services include engineers, supervisors, plumbers, cleaners, debris removers, machinery, and much more. If the sewage backup is caused due to leakage of the septic tank, you will require water resource engineers to analyze the leak and start the recovery phase. Plumbers would assist you if your sewer line has caused sewage backup, cleaners would always play the most vital part, as they are the ones who walk down through the debris and molds to find the clogged point and dismantle it completely. Dewatering machinery and lifters would assist you in dewatering the area and removing the accumulated waste. It is wise to consult a commercial waste management organization that can help you in sewage cleanup and offer other vital services. If the affected area is the size of a room, you can start by yourself, but you must refrain from doing it yourself in worse situations. With assistance from experienced individuals,you can undergo a complete sewageprocess. Local volunteers can help in relocating families to safe stations and provide them basic first aid. What to Wear During a Sewage Cleanup Activity?While performing sewage cleanup activities, individuals must wear personal protective gears that include; rubber boots, gloves, and face shield. Cleaning equipment and clothes should be cleaned and sanitized with proper disinfectants and chemicals. The workers and the general public should be wearing personal protective gear to protect themselves from poisonous gases and toxins. What to Do After a Successful Sewage Cleanup?Sewage cleanup is a challenging and tedious task. After a successful cleanup process, you can revert to your everyday life but ensure you follow recommended protocols to have a hassle-free life.
Which items should be discarded?It is important to start fresh, discard all disposable items which got affected by sewage backup. Home-canned food in the refrigerator should be removed, as the odor is most likely to get settled in home-packed edibles. Unpacked items, which were left exposed to the polluted environment should be discarded. Fruits, vegetables, bakery items, and liquids should be discarded. Items that smell foul should be avoided and discarded in plastic bags. Final Words: Sewage cleanup is a challenging and technical task. You require commercial cleanup services to provide you prompt and professional services. During the process of sewage cleanup, the general public should cooperate with cleaners and supervisors. Contaminated sewage waste should be cautiously removed and transported to a dumping site. It is advisable to use environmentally friendly materials which do not affect the discharge of water. Clogging and blockage of drains and sewers are caused due to our negligence. To have a sustainable water supply process, we need to ensure that we reduce the use of substances that are likely to accumulate and be the reason for the blockage. Dispose of all edible waste, which is greasy and expands when exposed to water. Looking for an emergency sewage company to get your home back in order? At GTA Restoration, we make sure to employ only the most skills professionals who will treat your home like their own. If you live in Toronto, and are caught in a fix! Want a closer look at all the services we offer? Check them out here! Want to meet our team? Here you go. Finally, if you’re looking to learn more about emergency clean up services that we offer, and read up on helpful advice, we’d be happy if you went through our blog—it’s full of helpful tips, tricks, and advice that works! For more information on our services contact us at 416-358-6666 or visit us @ www.GTARestoration.com – 24-hour Services: Emergency Plumber Toronto, Water Damage, Fire Damage, Flooded Cleanup, Mold Removal or www.GTARestoration.net – 24-hr Emergency Service: www.PlumberTorontoLTD.com, Emergency Plumber Toronto, Water Damage Restoration, Fire Restoration, Flooded Basement Cleanup, Mold Remediation – serving Toronto & the GTA #Toronto’s #1 #Emergency #Contractors #GTARestoration.com #EmergencyPlumber #EmergencyService #TorontoContractor #EmergencyContractor #InsuranceContractor #RestorationContractor #TorontoCondominium #EmergencyService #WaterDamageToronto #MoldRemovalToronto #TorontoCondos #PropertyManager #TorontoHomes #InsuranceAdjuster #PropertyAdjuster #InsuranceBroker #the6ix #the6 #thesix #416 #tdot #6ix #StreetsOfToronto #Toronto_Insta #6ixBuzz #yyz #disinfection #infectioncontrol #infectionprevention #reducethespread #pathogens #sanitization #sanitize #disinfect Tags, Water Damage Toronto, Mold Removal Toronto, Frozen & Burst Pipes, Emergency Plumber, Flooded Basement, Sewage Clean up, Fire Restoration, Specialty Drying, Home Renovation, Condo Restoration, Water Damage Toronto, Mold Removal Toronto, Frozen & Burst Pipes, Emergency Plumber, Flooded Basement, Sewage Cleanup, Fire Restoration, Specialty Drying, Home Renovation, Condo Restoration, Water & Flood Damage, Mold Removal & Remediation, Waterproofing Specialists, Fire & Smoke Restorer Tags, Water Damage Toronto, Mold Removal Toronto, Frozen & Burst Pipes, Emergency Plumber, Flooded Basement, Sewage Clean up, Fire Restoration, Condo Restoration, Water & Flood Damage, Mold Removal & Remediation https://www.flickr.com/photos/waterdamagetoronto/ https://www.pinterest.ca/GTARestoration/ https://twitter.com/gtarestorations https://twitter.com/gtarestoration1 https://www.linkedin.com/company/gta-restoration/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/gta-restoration-inc https://www.instagram.com/gtarestoration https://gtarestoration.tumblr.com/ #EmergencyServiceToronto #EmergencyContractors #TorontoContractor #InsuranceContractor #ReatorationContractor #InsuranceToronto #TorontoInsurance #InsuranceClaim #TorontoClaims #InsuranceAdjuster #TorontoAdjuster #TorontoInsurance #PropertyManagers #NewHome #TorontoBroker #InsuranceBroker #Toronto # #GTA #TorontoInsuranceBroker #InsuranceBrokerToronto #GTAR #TorontoClaimAdujter #ClaimAdujterToronto #PropertyInsurance #HomeInsuranceToronto #HomeInsurance #PropertyManager #Restorations #Toronto #WaterDamage #MoldRemoval #GTARestoration #CityRestoration #RealEstateToronto #GTA #TorontoCondominium #TorontoRestore #CondoServices #EmergencyPlumber #EmergencyPlumbing #PlumbingEmergency #PlumbingToronto #PlumberToronto #EmergencyCondoServices #WaterDamageToronto #MoldRemovalToronto #Mold #WaterDamageService #Restorations #Toronto #RealEstateToronto #TorontoProperties #GTARestore #CondominiumToronto #TorontoCity #TorontoCondo #TorontoPlumbing #TorontoPlumber Renovate Your Old Bathroom: Make it an All-Inclusive Spa and Steam BathWhat if you could build a professional grade steam bath in your own home? Many homeowners are already enjoying the health benefits and comfort of an integrated steam bath bathroom. This article will walk you through the basics of realizing the benefits of your very own private steam bath. Once you know the basics of a steam bath bathroom, you will find that such an addition to your home is not cost prohibitive and is relatively easy to accomplish, provided you consult with an experienced renovation professional. Your renovation professional will have a clear understanding of your needs and your project. Steam bathrooms are not another fad, their judicious use of water, combined with their health benefits, are causing people to rethink their bathing routines. Imagine your morning routine starting with a steam sauna. Steam Baths in HistoryThe concept of the steam bath has been around for millennia. Some cultures made use of natural hot springs and others, without nearby geothermal activity, constructed their own versions; the native American "Sweat Lodge" for instance. Common to all of them regardless of time or place is the health and relaxation benefits they confer. The Health Benefits of Steam BathsThat steam bathing is popular around the world should come as no surprise when considering how the practice helps to improve health and well-being. Among the many health benefits of regular steam bathing are decreased stress, increased relaxation, breathing improvements, improved skin and, not least, because of these other health benefits it should be no surprise that sleep will come easier and be of a higher quality. Other Benefits of a Steam BathroomAside from all the health advantages to having your own steam bathroom, there are also some money and time saving benefits. The personal steam bathroom of today reduces water consumption. Taking a quick rinse shower before your steam bath and then one after saves the many gallons of water that would otherwise have gone down the drain – only a small quantity of water is necessary to immerse you into a fully satisfying steam bath environment. A steam bathroom is an integrated tiled unit which makes it considerably easier to clean than a standard compartmentalized bathroom. Also, having a high-quality steam bathroom can greatly improve the resale value of your home. Types of Steam Baths and InstallationsFor the homeowner there are two approaches to installing your steam bath. The first method is to purchase a prefabricated kit from a big box retailer like Home Depot. The second method is to have a custom installation; this can be accomplished by attempting to do it yourself or by hiring a professional contractor. The pros and cons of any of these methods are dependent on what kind of time and expense you are willing to incur. Consider that even a kit will likely require a professional installation service, and so the expense on the back end could well rival that of a custom install. If the DIY route is chosen, then care must be taken to ensure plenty of time to study the requirements, materials and plans for the install. A missed step or slapdash workmanship can cause severe structural damage to a house, not to mention the wasted cost of materials should the unit need to be torn down and replaced. Hiring a professional is generally the preferred method. A professional has a depth of knowledge and experience to complete a high-quality install on time and on budget. A professional Steam bath installer understand the local building codes and is also licensed and bonded so that you are covered by your homeowner's insurance should anything go wrong. How a Modern Steam Bathroom Works, the Steam Generating UnitAside from materials and labor, the most expensive item for a Steam Bath is the steam generating unit. There are many units available on the market and they are tailored to different needs. If the Steam Bath space is to be small, then a smaller unit is, of course, the best option. The installation professional will provide the best options for the size of the space. Further, most unit now come with remote controllers so that the atmosphere is readily adjusted at will, without having to continually adjust the unit manually. Ask a Professional for AdviceWhen it comes to something as durable and convenient as your very own steam bath it is best to consult with a professional. An install professional can serve as a valuable guide through whit is a very complex process. By getting the most reliable information available you will ensure that your Steam Bath is not simply built to standards of the highest quality, but that you will have saved money over the course of the install.
The installation professional will also advise you if a kit might be a better option than a custom installation. Moreover, your professional will be there to back up their work should you ever need it. Common Signs of Water Damage?Water damage can leave you with a costly bill and can result in irreversible damage. Fortunately, there are some common signs to look out for, so you can catch it early if it does happen and get it repaired as soon as possible. Your Ceiling and Wall Paint is Peeling and WarpingTake a look around your home and examine the walls and ceilings. If they are water damaged, you may notice that the wallpaper or paint is peeling or even has a bubbling effect. More often than not, this is because of excess moisture. Water-filled bubbles form, and can be large or small depending on the extent of the water damage. Even small bubbles should be inspected and addressed immediately. The bubbling effect can be especially found in bathrooms and kitchens. Even tasks as simple as boiling a pot of water can cause water damage to the walls, especially if there is condensation. If you have a painted overhang above your stove, you can find these water-filled bubbles as well. If you have water damage, you also may notice that your drywall is warping or your ceiling feels soft and spongy to the touch. Warped drywall is never good as it can lead to structural damage and ruin the integrity of the drywall. You won’t be able to hang shelving or anything heavy on the drywall as it will turn to mush and crumble. Plus, anything you already had hanging on the drywall, such as an expensive TV can fall to the ground and become damaged. You are looking at damages beyond the drywall itself which is why it is important to address it as soon as you notice it. Buckled Hardwood FloorsIf your floors are looking a little odd and not as they used to, trust your gut as it may be water damage. What constitutes odd? You may notice that your floors are what experts call ‘cupping’. This is when the sides of your floorboards are higher than the centre of the floorboards. This generally occurs when moisture builds up inside the wood and swells it while weighing down the centre. You will notice the opposite effect when too much moisture is removed from the floorboards and they shrink. In addition, your hardwood floors can ‘crown’ which is the opposite of cupping. Moisture builds up inside the boards and the centre of the wood is higher than the sides of the wood. If you notice your hardwood floors ‘buckling’ than this could be a sign of water damage. When your hardwood flooring buckles, the wood will lift from the subflooring several inches in multiple places or one. You must take into consideration how your wood flooring was installed. Sometimes it is not due to water damage at all, but to wear and tear and improper installation. Hardwood flooring needs time to get used to the environment and the elements it will be exposed to. If this doesn’t happen and it is installed before it is ready, cupping, crowning, and buckling can occur as well. Visibly Stained Ceilings and FloorsTake a look at your ceilings and floors and take note of any stains. Feel your carpets as well and if they are wet to the touch, that is definitely a sign that a leak has occurred and there may be water damage. If the stains on your ceilings are yellow or brown and are various shapes and sizes, that is a sign of water damage. Take note of where the stain is as well. If the stain is underneath your bathroom where the toilet or shower is, that increases the chances of it being water damage from a leak. Mold GrowthA tell-tale sign that there is water damage in your home is mold as mold can only develop if there is a source of moisture. You may find mold spores on your hardwood floors, inside the wall and outside the wall, and on the ceiling. Check your basement thoroughly as well as most people find Mold there. It can be a variety of colours, the most common being black mold. Keep in mind that no mold does not mean you are safe from water damage and it doesn’t exist. Mold is highly dangerous to your health and can even lead to death with long-term exposure, so it is not an issue to be taken lightly. For most cases, Mold Damage will only begin to grow if the source of the water damage has been damp for a long time. In this case, you may have water damage long before you notice it. Bad Odours SmellsDon’t ignore that musty smell you have been sensing for weeks, as it may be related to water damage. The scent tends to grow stronger the closer you are to the source of the water damage. The smell can be coming from the mold resulting from the water damage, or the water damage itself if it is from a leak from a sewer pipe. Sewage is a biohazard so this should be addressed as soon as possible. It is not safe to be exposed to a biohazard for any period of time. High Water BillThis one is not really a direct sign of water damage, but something to look out for. A higher utility bill without intentional use of excessive water is usually a sign of a leak. If there is a leak, then there could quite possibly be water damage you haven’t noticed yet.
Take an extra moment out of your day, if you can, to analyze your home and look out for water damage. Check for leaks as well in every room, especially the bathroom, kitchen, basement and laundry room. If you do spot water damage in your home, don’t ignore it. Water damage can become more expensive the longer it is left, and could even be detrimental to your health. Call a professional as soon as possible to confirm the water damage and get it repaired. When Do You Need to Call an Emergency Plumber?Why it’s Important to Avoid Water Damage
Water damage is more than just an ugly stain on the wall- though that’s a pretty good reason to prevent it as well. Water damage can seriously harm the structural integrity of your home, electrical, and piping systems. It can also lead to mold, which can cause serious health problems including respiratory illness. If you are in the Greater Toronto Area, here are the Top Five Water Damage Service Providers in Toronto. Potentially Unsafe Conditions If the plumbing issue is leading to unsafe conditions in the home, then it should be considered a plumbing emergency. An example would be a bad smell in the yard, which could indicate a sewer or septic tank backup. In that case, it would only be a matter of time the waste reached the home and started to damage its structure. Another unsafe condition would be the presence of mold. Mold taints the air quality of a home and can lead to severe respiratory illness. If you suspect mold, it is vitally important to call a mold removal service as soon as possible. If you aren’t sure how to check for mold, here are five great tips to detect mold growth. Common Plumbing Emergencies Overflowing sink, drain, toilet, or bathtub An overflowing sink, drain, toilet, or bathtub is quite a bit more serious than a clogged one. While the cause of an overflow can be simple, it can also indicate much more severe issues with your plumbing system. Step one is to turn off the water to prevent further flooding. Step two is to call your emergency plumber and make sure that the situation is taken care of as quickly as possible. If the problem is a clogged toilet, make sure that no one in the home flushes in the meantime, as it can make the situation worse. Burst or leaking pipes Burst pipes and leaking pipes are both considered serious plumbing problems. If a burst pipe is left untreated, you may end up having to replace your entire plumbing system. If a leaking pipe is left untreated, it could lead to flooding. Gross smells If you’re smelling something strange or gross when you turn on the water, this can indicate a serious and potentially harmful plumbing problem. A bad smell usually indicates a problem with the sump pump, septic tank, or sewer system. It could mean that there is backup occurring. Do not use any water in your home and be sure to call an emergency plumber immediately! Conclusion We naturally want to put off calling an emergency service, as it can be quite costly. If you’re questioning whether it really is a plumbing emergency, ask yourself:
If the answer is yes, then it’s time to call an emergency plumber. Some common plumbing emergencies include:
At GTA Restoration, our goal is to take back the beauty, safety, and comfort of your home with expert solutions. We provide you with everything you need for your home insurance claim. We have been serving the Greater Toronto Area for over 19 years and are happy to assist with Toronto plumbing emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are looking for the best emergency plumbing service in Toronto, please reach out to us. We would be happy to help, including providing you a with no-obligation quote. Let’s take back the beauty of your home together. Keywords: Emergency Plumber Toronto, Flooded Basement Toronto, Water Damage Toronto, Mold Removal Toronto Persona: People needing emergency plumbing services in the Greater Toronto Area. DEEMED AN ESSENTIAL SERVICE - WE ARE OPEN 24/7 - OUR TEAMS ARE READY TO ASSIST YOU WITH ALL OF YOUR OFFICE SANITIZIN DEEP CLEANING SERVICE ACROSS TORONTOBusiness Reopening Day Coronavirus Office Sanitizing Deep Cleaning ServiceWhat YOU Need to Know to Get Back to BusinessReopening Business Day Coronavirus Disinfecting and Sanitizing Business Office Deep Cleaning, and it's time to take preventative action. GTA Restoration biohazard, local antivirus teams are on 24 hour response in your area for commercial business and residential needs. Our teams are certified and specialized for biohazard cleanup, and they're trained for coronavirus pre contamination and post contamination situations. We have the experience, expertise, and processes in place that are recommended by the CDC and the products we use are EPA approved. We are here to reduce and stop the spread of the Corona virus by facilitating the cleaning and sanitizing of churches, schools, nursing homes, businesses, municipalities, libraries, heart fleets, and more. Being proactive involves cleaning your home or business before a known case has been reported with so many people out there today showing no symptoms of the virus and the lack of testing. Many of our clients are doing pre contamination cleaning on a regular basis to ensure that their facilities are clean and sanitized to reduce the possibility of spreading the infection. Furthermore, if you are in a situation where you have a known case of Corona virus that has been in your facility or property, rest assured that our team is here for you. We offer post contamination cleaning to get you back open as soon as possible. We have an extensive and experienced post contamination team available 24 seven. When we are done, you will know it is safe to reenter the property. Be proactive, not reactive. Our biohazard cleaning teams are ready and available to get your business clean, sanitized, and ready for a reopening regardless if it's a proactive need or reactive policy. Now, GTA Restoration restoring peace of mind. Attention to all the Cleaning Business out there!Fogging Could be a Violation of Federal Law! Fogging Could be a Violation of Federal Law!
If the cleaning company you just hired is simply “fogging,” then they're not following EPA guidelines, not sanitizing your facility, and you could be liable. Hiring a professional cleaning company that understands this urgency is vital for your business. Be cautious with companies that broadcast “fogging” as being a fully effective method of disinfecting. Doing otherwise could mean breaking a federal law in unsafe disinfection practices. An EPA approved list known as “List N” reveals the most effective chemicals that require pre-cleaning the surface with soap and water before you spray the disinfectant product. The extra time spent preparing the space will ensure that the EPA approved disinfectant does it’s job. And more importantly is, using an improper application of the disinfectants can lead companies to a false sense of security, and an increase in health hazards and it is not effective at reducing the risk of the spread of COVID-19.F Coronavirus COVID-19 Disinfection & Sanitization Services in Toronto and GTA As the days are gradually increasing, the people are slowly getting impacted by the novel coronavirus which doesn’t seem to stop anytime soon. People are not only taking preventive measures to protect themselves from the Novel Coronavirus, but most of the people are also desperately looking for the ways through which they could disinfect their houses, surfaces which might be contaminated and all those potential areas which might be at the risk of catching the chances of developing the coronavirus in one way or another.
In this chaotic situation, we believe in being on our toes to provide the virus disinfection and equipping our clients with the information which could work as virus infection prevention without being heavy on one’s pocket. Before we talk about the procedure of disinfecting and sanitizing the areas, which might be potentially impacted by the coronavirus, it is important to understand the basic ways through which the chances of the virus could be reduced to the minimum. Safety Precautions Although it is highly recommended that during this time, all the people should stay inside their houses and maintain the proper social distancing to reduce the chances of maximum spread of the virus. Some of the crucial tips which should be followed by every individual are as follows:
Disinfection and Sanitization Services from Coronavirus The process of disinfection and sanitization from the viruses is one of the important tasks which needs to be done under the sheer care and protection. When a person initiates the virus sanitization procedure then, they might be at the risk of catching several other health issues which could be harmful to many people. Some of the virus infection prevention tips which are considered by us while providing the sanitization services from coronavirus are as follows: Virus Cleaning It is the crucial part of our agreement that before performing the virus sanitization services, we always perform the cleaning task in which all the germs, dirt, impurities and other particles are removed. The procedure of cleaning doesn’t ensure the killing of germs from any aspect. However, it helps in increasing the chances through which the germs could be killed and the effectiveness of the virus sanitization could be ensured. Disinfection from Virus After properly performing the cleaning procedure, we start working on the disinfection of the virus procedure which is well-versed than the cleaning one. This procedure refers to killing all kinds of germs from the surfaces so that there would be no chances of virus spread. According to the researchers, the virus sanitization should be performed in the areas where the chance of human reach is easier but they are harder to clean. During our research procedure, we managed to come up with all the surfaces with which humans tend to interact frequently and through which the chances of spread are higher.
If you are interested in availing of our services then, feel free to reach out to us by calling on the numbers given on our website. If you have any questions or queries, leave your comments below and we’ll get back to you right away. Workplace Precautions for Coronavirus COVID-19GTARestoration.com is working to contain the COVID-19 threat across Toronto and GTA. Our goal is to assist our clients and all citizens to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves, others and the environment at this critical time. As the situation evolves, you can count on us for accurate and up-to-date information about COVID-19 and the associated risks, as well as hazardous waste disposal services to contain infection. Call GTARestoration.com to safely contain, handle and remove any biohazardous waste from your workplace. What is COVID-19? In brief, the coronavirus or Covid-19 is a novel respiratory virus. The main symptoms fever, coughing, fatigue, muscle ache and difficulty breathing. The Government of Canada has posted the video below summarizing the virus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mUrdZGSdAE How Does It Spread? The virus is most commonly spread from an infected person through: · respiratory droplets generated when you cough or sneeze · close to personal contact, such as shaking hands or any physically touching · touching something with this types of virus on it, or touching your mouth, eyes or nose before washing your hands Not every infected person has obvious symptoms. This means the virus is being transmitted by people who are not even aware they are infected. This is a problem as these ‘carriers’ of the virus, are continuing to visit public spaces and have physical contact with others. New studies show that the virus can survive on surfaces such as plastic and stainless steel for up to 3 days. This means that the virus can be contracted by simply touching a door handle, railing, check-out screen, elevator button etc. infected by a sick person. What Should You do to prevent the spread of COVID-19? The greatest risk of infection is in healthcare facilities where people may be seeking COVID-19 testing or treatment. However, there is a risk of infection anywhere where people are in close proximity. Make sure you are taking the necessary precautions in your workplace: · Limit congregations and interactions to only those which are absolutely necessary · Wear gloves · Wear long-sleeved clothing · Practice facial protection: o wear surgical/procedural masks (only those which are fitted and do not openly let air in are effective) o wear eye protection such as goggles, or surgical/procedural mask with visor attachment Most importantly, handle potentially infected materials with care! · Obtain the right supplies for disposal of any medical or other hazardous waste · Dispose of sharps waste into puncture resistant containers · Contain infection by disposing of bodily fluids, pharmaceuticals, gauze, etc. in the proper, Ministry of Environment approved receptacles · Ensure that all biohazardous waste is promptly removed from your workplace GTARestoration.com can provide you with the safest containers for containing hazardous waste and is available to promptly remove any waste from your premises. GTARestoration.com is helping to Flatten the Curve* by offering urgent-response service to contain infectious waste across Canada. Call GTARestoration.com to access containers for all streams of biohazardous waste or call us to provide emergency pick-up services to collect and remove hazardous waste from your workplace! CONTACT US AT: Toll Free: 1-800-506-4068 Office: (416) 358 - 6666 ** For More Information on Flattening the Curve, see: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/canada-covid-19-coronavirus-spread-hospital-surge-capacity-ventilators-1.5493178 Sincerely, GTA Restoration Service Department COVID-19 Coronavirus Sanitization & Decontamination ServicesGTA Restoration now offers priority Coronavirus COVID-19 Santizing and Decontamination services for all public spaces, businesses, churches, hotels, condominiums, municipalities, nursing homes and government buildings including libraries, office spaces and more!
GTA Restoration is also equipped with state-of-the-art HEPA filters and Hydroxyl Generator Air Treatment Systems. We will continue to post to the GTARestoration.com blog, Tags, commercial sanitation, commercial kitchen sanitation, commercial sanitation, commercial sanitation company, commercial sanitation services, commercial sanitation near me, sterilization and commercial sterilization, commercial sterilization near me, commercial sterilization, commercial sterilization company, commercial sterilization services, local commercial sterilization, corona virus sanitation, corona virus sanitation near me, corona virus commercial sanitation, corona virus sanitation services, corona virus sanitation company, covid-19 sanitation, covid-19 sanitation near me, covid-19 commercial sanitation, covid-19 sanitation services, covid-19 sanitation company, Coronavirus disease (COVID-19 Outbreak update Emergency Response Team Treatment Unit in TorontoDear Torontonians and surrounding communities, I am writing you today to provide information regarding our response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and to assure you of what precautionary measures we are taking at GTA restoration. GTA Restoration Biohazard Direct Response Team As valued clients, your safety has always been, and remains, our number one priority. We train comprehensively for biohazard emergency scenarios as part of our overall emergency response readiness. We also have our own GTA Biohazard Direct Response Team; and have been monitoring the concerns and conditions closely as the situation began to unfold in December 2019. From the onset of the coronavirus, we have been closely following with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), Transport Canada and other agencies around the world to ensure we are aware of, and aligned with, guidance regarding public safety. Our technicians across Toronto and GTA are involved in the planning and implementation of our response to this public concern. In addition to the standard cleaning that has been part of our daily maintenance schedule; we have also introduced additional measures to increase the sanitization of all of our surrounding communities. Properly Sanitize Your Properties: Business and Home It is our business to disinfect and sanitize properties using industry-approved products and have also introduced hospital-grade wipes and spray to our cleaning processes. These new products are used to clean and disinfect all surfaces in public areas and common spaces. GTA Restoration is equipped with state-of-the-art HEPA filters which are similar to those used in hospitals. These filters achieve a viral and bacterial removal efficiency of greater than 99.99 per cent. These air units also introduce fresh air into indoor spaces every two to three minutes. Continued Service with Confidence To help you continue with confidence in your daily routine, we have already instituted a flexible change policy giving those clients who booked reservations between March 3, 2020 and March 31, 2020 the ability to change their reservations to a sooner date without the applicable change fees. In addition, we are temporarily removing the normal change and cancellation restrictions for clients who had previously booked a Basic service beginning on or before March 31, 2020. More information can be found on the GTARestoration.net advisory blog page. If you have any questions regarding your reservations, there are a number of ways to contact us that you can find here. If you booked with our agent, please contact them directly. The Health Risk for Canadians PHAC has assessed the public health risk associated with Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as low for Canada. To date, there are no known cases of local transmission. We recognize that this is an evolving story and it is our commitment to provide you with up-to-date information as it becomes available. We will continue to post to the GTARestoration.com blog which remains a great resource to find current information. I hope this gives you confidence in the actions we are taking. We remain committed to providing you with a clean and safe environment and I look forward to being of continued service to you in the very near future. Sincerely, Tony S. Lleshi President & CEO GTA Restoration Group Inc. Tags, commercial sanitation, commercial kitchen sanitation, commercial sanitation, commercial sanitation company, commercial sanitation services, commercial sanitation near me, sterilization and commercial sterilization, commercial sterilization near me, commercial sterilization, commercial sterilization company, commercial sterilization services, local commercial sterilization, corona virus sanitation, corona virus sanitation near me, corona virus commercial sanitation, corona virus sanitation services, corona virus sanitation company, covid-19 sanitation, covid-19 sanitation near me, covid-19 commercial sanitation, covid-19 sanitation services, covid-19 sanitation company, Coronavirus Infection in Toronto Frequently Asked QuestionsThe Coronavirus, or COVID-19 is a contagious viral infection that has many people worried. This worldwide virus has the potential to have a huge impact on almost any industry in our current global economy. Here at GTARestortion.comⓇ, we have been flooded with questions and requests for information on how our technology could help contain this and other pathogens. We have put together few FAQ in order to help.
Have the equipment we use have been tested to be effective against viruses and bacteria? Yes, the ability of OdoroxⓇ machines to kill viruses, bacteria, and mold was scientifically proven back in December 2014, when the OdoroxⓇ MDU/Rx machine was tested and approved by the FDA as a Class II Medical Device for use in occupied areas. What data do you have to prove this? These machines were tested at the Aerosol Research and Engineering Laboratories (ARE), an independent commercial laboratory that specializes in studying aerosolized microbiological organisms. These tests were performed on viruses, bacteria, and mold chosen by the FDA as some of the toughest. These viruses and bacteria were aerosolized in the test, mimicking the way they are often transmitted through actions like people coughing. They did this to obtain FDA approval for the OdoroxⓇ MDU/Rx machine. All of the tests had kill rates of between 4 and 5 log reductions (99.99% and 99.999%) within 2 hours: an exceptionally high (and fast) kill rate. If you want more data, we have detailed information documented by the Head of our Scientific Advisory Board on the independent microbiological laboratory testing that was performed. Have these equipment been tested to be effective against the Coronavirus, or COVID-19, specifically? No - this test in not perform at this time. Only the top national labs like the CDC and NIH can get samples of the Coronavirus so soon after an outbreak like this. Commercial labs are not equipped with the biosafety measures and containment protocols needed to test these types of viruses. However, one of the viruses included in the ARE laboratory testing was the MS2 virus, which is an excellent surrogate for the Coronavirus as both are positive-sense single-stranded RNA, or (+)ssRNA viruses. Based on this, we believe that the OdoroxⓇ MDU/Rx machine will be effective against the Coronavirus. Which OdoroxⓇ machine is the best for killing viruses and bacteria? The OdoroxⓇ MDU/Rx machine was the one tested and approved by the FDA as a Class II Medical Device for use in occupied areas. We have two other OdoroxⓇ machines that are built exactly the same as that unit but they are more powerful - they are the Oasis+ and the Boss machines. Any of those OdoroxⓇ machines, or the stronger XL3 machine, would be great assets to add to an infection control protocol that would also include things like spraying chemicals, wiping surfaces, and other effective disinfection methods. How do the OdoroxⓇ machines work? It’s incredibly easy: you just plug them in and turn them on. Our machines replicate the natural production of hydroxyl radicals to eliminate biological and chemical contaminants. These hydroxyls work on both the air and on surfaces while the spaces are occupied and in use. They can run 24/7, require very little labor, and leave little room for human error. Where can these machines be used? Our OdoroxⓇ Technology is ideal for any type of commercial building that has been or could be exposed to the Coronavirus, such as: apartment buildings, condominiums, hotels, big box retailers, universities and schools, manufacturing and industrial warehouse facilities, hospitals, churches, theaters, airports, office buildings, government establishments, and many other high traffic public facilities. They are safe to use while the building is occupied and in use. Where can I get the OdoroxⓇ machines? For rental information, please contact us directly and we will assist you. 24/7 Support to Keep You Safe and Healthy Finally, it’s important to know that all of this accurate, scientific testing was done before the Coronavirus appeared - the power and abilities that our machines offer have been proven. In response to this global health crisis, and any that may come in the future, we are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide help for you and your clients’ critical needs. Call Now @ 416-358-6666 to Contact GTARestoration.com
In This Blog3. Introduction 5. The Fundamentals 6. Don’t be a Marvin Mold Grower! 8. A Personal Story 9. The Laws of Thermodynamics 11. Applying Thermodynamics to your jobs 14. LGR Dehumidifier So you want a professional property restorer?Of course you do! That’s why you’re reading this Blog! On the surface, it might look like an easy job of putting in equipment and walking away. Do that... if you want to help mold build up. Water restoration is a complex trade! It requires a fundamental understanding of: building science, structural building practices, and the science that surrounds water damage restoration. The deeper your knowledge of building sciences and building compositions, and the greater your knowledge is of how building materials respond to moisture, the more likely you’ll be able to increase your profitability and deliver a successfully dried project. Become a sponge: learn everything you can about the science and let the knowledge soak in. After all, drying a building is about atmospheric sciences inside and outside the structure. It’s about the molecules and microorganisms that live within your job and it is the application of science that allows you to pull the moisture out. Here is the good news, this blog is going to simplify the difficult science to help a novice/intermediate restorer make better decisions in the field. This blog won’t replace the courses and hands on knowledge that you will get from the classroom and field, but it will help supplement your learning. At GTA Restoration, we know it’s hard to master every project—and that’s ok. We’re going to help you understand the concepts and help you manage all the information that comes your way. By the end of this blog, you will have the skills needed to be able to start drying a building. We also have a new Moisture tool that can help you simplify your water damage property. The time you spend with a qualified trainer who has field knowledge and can allow you to learn by relating to their experience is key. If you are using GTA Restoration, you’ll have the playbook that helps you unleash the full potential of saving your property. However, note that nothing replaces the technical training of the IICRC and the advance learning of the Restoration Industry Association. Want to be a ‘Power Restorer’? Want to own your town and be known as a ‘Drying God’? Do you have dreams of being called on stage for your Super Hero-Like Skills? Keep reading and join the elite team of GTA Restoration. The FundamentalsSometimes, we forget the fundamentals of Water Damage Toronto. Our goal as a restoration professional is to return the building materials to a dry standard or the same moisture level as the other unaffected materials in the building, or to remove, clean, and disinfect the structural materials. The dry standard is the target moisture content for the particular material in its normal (unaffected) state within that structure/specific micro-climate. Materials become ‘dry’ once they reach the dry standard. This level depends on the type of material, the location of the material in the building, and even where you live and the time of the season. The various tools you use on the project may also provide you with relatively high or low readings depending on the circumstances. For example, a piece of oak wood in a dry climate might have a dry standard (drying goal) of 6% moisture level. Whereas the same piece of wood on the East Coast might have a dry standard of 10%. These levels can fluctuate structure to structure and change throughout the year depending on the prevailing weather. This is why it is highly Moisture Level (ML): the amount of moisture contained in the material on a relative scale. Moisture level is used when the tool is not calibrated for the specific material. (IICRC S500 V4, 2015, 328) Moisture Content (MC): the amount of water contained in a material, expressed as a percentage of the weight of the oven dry material. If a restorer is measuring materials with an instrument that is calibrated for that material, then it is recommended that the term Moisture Content be used (IICRC S500 V4, 2015, 328). recommended that a restorer does not use a regional dry standard for drying materials, but uses a specific dry standard for that structure when possible. Don’t be a Marvin Mold Grower!
A Personal Story...
The Laws of ThermodynamicsUnderstanding the forces that you apply to a building will increase your chances of success. Thermodynamics are the laws that manage energy. For this blog, we’ll simplify the laws. You can apply them to your jobs as these concepts will help you understand drying.
LAW OF EQUILIBRIUM
Think of air as having energy. An easy way to do this is to look at the weather. A fierce thunderstorm will often follow a hot, humid day. Hot, wet air has a lot of energy in it. You rarely see a thunderstorm in the winter in Canada and the northern United States because colder air has less moisture and energy to create those spectacular storms.
Applying Thermodynamics to your jobsAs we take the Laws of Thermodynamics and apply them in the real world, it gets complicated as you have many different temperatures and heat energy loads in and around the building. It takes a lot of energy to evaporate moisture into the air. (Law #1 says we cannot destroy energy, we can only transfer it) so as we release the moisture from the materials into the air, the air is now holding onto that energy. For air to move energy, it needs to hold the energy. According to the second Law of Thermodynamics, the Law of Equilibrium, energy in the air wants to balance with an area of lower energy in the surrounding environment.
Can’t get enough on moisture jobs? Neither can we!That’s why we’re releasing
Chapter Two: The Importance of Vapor Pressure, Dew Point, and Temperature in the next few weeks. You’ll learn:
Request a free demo to try out our new Moisture tool. Fire Is a Triple Threat for Property Owners
Fire is a triple threat for property owners because it results in (1) fire damage, (2) water damage and (3) the risk of mold due to flooding. Fire damage includes damage to the property and contents, soot, smoke damage and poor air quality. Flooding from firefighting efforts causes the water damage. And with water damage, there is a very real risk of mold growth within 12-48 hours. Recovering from a fire in your home or business is a process, so be sure to take the right steps forward. Here are the 3 key steps to get you started: Step 1: Decontaminate Fire damage poses the risk of health hazards including serious respiratory issues, so it is absolutely necessary to decontaminate and deodorize your property first to restore your air quality. Attempting to decorate over the soot, smoke and fire damage without first decontaminating and deodorising the property, traps harmful air pollutants and odours and also causes staining to work its way back through any paint application. In every case of fire damage, be sure to call a professional fire restoration team who will take all the necessary steps to decontaminate the areas and contents to ensure all the harmful pollutants are sanitized and thoroughly removed. Also, depending on the severity of the contamination, some items will need to be transported to a specialized decontamination unit. Step 2: Address Water Damage to Avoid Mold Growth Water damage from fire fighting efforts is devastating especially when it extends to soaked furniture and flooring, electric appliances and other irreplaceable household items. Furthermore, any kind of water damage should always be addressed immediately as harmful mold growth can begin within 12-48 hours. Other complications from water damage include steel and iron corrosion as well as wood rot in walls and furniture. Immediate water damage remediation includes removing the water, as well as drying and sanitizing both your property and all your contents. Initially, vacuums and pumps are used to remove any standing water; after removing the water, the drying process is initiated with fans and dehumidifiers. It is very important for property owners to note that drying is not enough. All damaged items and personal belongings must be sanitized and cleaned to prevent mold growth including carpets, clothing, and rugs, which require thorough antimicrobial treatments. Step 3: Restoration Once your property is decontaminated, you need a professional team of restoration experts to address your water damage, assess the full extent of the damage to your property and supply you with a fair and detailed estimate of the cost to restore your home or business to its original state or better. Always engage a professional restoration surveyor to assess the damage and provide you with an itemized estimate for the work. Recommended restoration work ranges from:
In the event of a fire, be sure to take the right steps forward. Together with your professional emergency restoration team, you will get through this and start again How Crime Scene Cleaners Sanitize a Trauma Scene
Cleaning up a crime scene may not seem like the ideal occupation, but someone has to do it. Often times, the dwelling where the fatalities or injuries occurred is going to be placed back on the market. Not to worry though, as the process is similar to sewage cleanup in that it deals with the removal of bio-hazardous waste. Crime scene cleaners are trained to remove any reminders of the tragedy that occurred, while also remaining cautious and respectful of the injured or deceased. Obtain the Right Gear Crime scene cleaners are dealing with bio-hazardous waste and should always ensure they have to correct gear before attending a scene. This includes:
For a crime scene heavily tainted in blood and bodily fluids, a respirator is handy to filter the air. Remove and Dispose of Blood Tainted Materials Next, crime scene cleaners will search the area particularly for items that may be tainted with blood or bodily fluids. This can include but are not limited to:
When dealing with carpets or flooring that is tainted with blood and bodily fluid, each layer is removed until it tests negative for the presence of contaminants. Clean, Disinfect, and Deodorize This is where crime scene cleaners conduct an in-depth cleaning to completely sanitize the space and eliminate odours. For concrete, the process usually involves pressure washing with chemical solutions to break down the blood and scrubbing with abrasive tools. Typically, all surfaces are cleaned and sanitized with the use of high-quality medical grade chemicals. This way, they can be sure that viruses and bacteria are eliminated. Sometimes, the cause of death or injury is a virus and that’s why this is necessary. Sometimes it is unknown whether the injured or deceased has a virus in their blood, so it is better to be safe than sorry. Afterwards, special deodorizers are used to remove any lingering odours of a trauma scene. Verify the Trauma Scene is Safe Once a crime scene is sanitized, a crime scene cleaner will use ATP (adenosine triphosphate testing technology to guarantee the area is disinfected and safe. Never meddle in a crime scene. Always report it, so the professionals can take appropriate measures. Be Prepared for winter Toronto
As winter approaches, so do the risks of damage from frozen burst pipes. Freezing is one of the biggest causes of pipe bursts. The resulting damage can be very costly and have very serious impacts on your business. At Triple+ our main goal is to help you prevent damage from water leaks. We want to keep your operating costs low and ensure your client gets the best service. Our smart, easy to install, fully automated systems will detect leaks and prevent catastrophic damage. Head into winter, knowing that because our sensors measure temperature, as well as to detect leaks, we will give you the ability to proactively address potential leak threats before a disaster strikes. These systems are cost-effective and will help to ensure business continuity for you, your clients and tenants. We offer you: Immediate leak notification including the location of a leak in any number of properties or zones in a building. Automatic water shut off (of all valve sizes). Automatic detection of abnormal water usage. Remote monitoring and control of plumbing systems via the APP or a central monitoring station. Ability to measure temperature and send alerts before a pipe gets frozen. Wireless, battery-operated system installed in minutes with no cable - no disruptions and costs kept low. See how a property management company in New York saved lots of money by installing Triple+ systems in a building in Madison avenue. To sum up, GTA Restoration can greatly reduce the risk posed by water leaks so that you can approach your insurers to transfer as much of the water damage risk to them in order to reduce costs. Let’s discuss your requirements in detail with a call or meeting. You can get hold of me at: Tony@GTARestoration.com | Office: 1(416) 358-6666 | Mobile: (416) 993-1111 Best regards, Tony S. Lleshi, Senior Project Manager, Canada What to do if you discover mold growth in your home?
Your house is a place where you find comfort. Its coziness welcomes you every day after you return home from work. If your home is unbecoming you won’t get the stress-free atmosphere you are looking or after a day at work. Therefore, you need to keep your home neat and clean by getting rid of rodents and insects like cockroaches and mice along with other infestation causing organisms like termites and mold. While cockroaches, mice, and termites can creep into your house even after you take extreme measures, mold can infest your house only if you are careless. What is so special about mold? Let us find out! Mold and its Growth Mold is basically a fungus that exists all around is. It is an organism that can be found in the air, in water and even outside in nature. In nature, Mold is an important part of the ecosystem as it helps break down dead leaves, plants, and even trees. It thrives in moisture so it exists widely in Water Damage. Causes Mold can infest your house only if you leave a damp spot in your house. Now you might think why would you just randomly leave a damp spot in your home? Well, things can happen. Perhaps, you spilled Water Damage on your wall or there is seepage in your walls that keep them damp. Mold only needs little space to flourish and infest your home. And once it cements its place somewhere in your home, it can start to grow and spread just like any other bacteria. Humidity can also have a similar effect. Basically, anything wet or damp is a breeding ground for such bacteria. You need to avoid such situations and fix any leaking pipes or seepage that might be found in your house. Adverse Effects of Mold on You and the Environment Mold is a pretty interesting organism, in that it is different from any other multicellular organism. Unlike most fungi, mold exists everywhere. It is in the air, the Water Damage properties and in the ground. Wherever there is moisture, there is mold. Keeping that in mind you can imagine the adverse effects mold can have on your house and also on your health. When it comes to your house, mold can destroy its beauty. A clean house can look ugly and smell bad if it is infested with mold. Mold is small and either green or black. It comes in patches in your home from where it spreads into the air and even to the nearest wall or pipe. These patches are usually found under bathroom sinks or near water and sewerage pipes. Small patches of mold pose no threat but if the organism spreads, as it's its nature, you can expect it to release some of itself in the air around you. If you inhale too much mold you might get sick and in the long run, this infestation can become risky for you. Sickness associated with mold exposure is sinus problems, breathing problems, sore throat, nosebleed, headache, skin irritation, and even cancer. You would do well to rid yourself of mold as soon as possible. So, in essence, with mold not only will your house look bad, it will smell bad and the air inside won’t be healthy for you or your friends and relatives. You should get your house checked for mold and get it treated by professionals. If you are in Toronto, GTA Restoration is a good place to call for help. Types of Mold There is no one kind of mold. It has a wide range of species but they can be classified under three types. Allergenic This is the mildest type of mold. Allergenic mold can cause problems for people who have asthma or who are specifically allergic to mold. This kind of mold is not lethal but you are better removing it from your home. Pathogenic This kind of mold is relatively harmful to both sick and healthy people. Pathogenic mold can lead to hypersensitivity pneumonitis, which is harmful and can even lead to death if not treated readily. Toxigenic This is the most lethal kind of Black Mold as it can cause temporary and permanent illnesses starting from eye and skin irritation and going onto serious issues like cancer, immunosuppression, and neurological disorders. All these diseases are caused by mycotoxins released by the fungus. How to Prevent Mold Instead of dealing with mold after your home is affected by it, it is better to prevent mold from developing fully. However, you should keep in mind that keeping your house completely mold free is impossible since bacterium breathe air and you cannot stop air from spreading everywhere. There are a few ways you can prevent mold: Prevent Moisture As we have learned, mold thrives in moisture. So, in order to stop it from flourishing, you need to keep a keen eye on moisture in your home. Regularly check high-risk areas like the bathtub, and wash basins. Furthermore, install dehumidifiers in your home to reduce the amount of moisture in the air. Prevent Dust Dust carries millions of bacteria, which can infect your home. If you can prevent dust from accumulating in your humble abode, you can prevent the formation of mold. Thorough Ventilation Germs and bacteria like dirty places, as well as places that are devoid of proper ventilation. If your home is not properly ventilated you will find many kinds of bacteria and insects roaming around. Conclusion If you want to ensure a healthy living environment, you need to get your house tested and cured of mold. Professionals who can undertake this job are hard to come by but fortunately here at GTA Restoration we employ the best of the best in the field. Our team of trained professionals will do their job to the best of their ability and rid your home of any and all mold infestation. All you need to do is grab a phone to call us and our team of professionals will be at your doorstep at the earliest. Common Home Fire Hazard and How to Avoid ThemAvoiding Common Fire Hazard at Home
Keeping the property safe is typically a homeowner’s goal. Home fires cause millions of dollars in damage every year: About 30 percent of Smoke and fire damage in Canada happen at home, but they cause about three-quarters of fire-related deaths. Understanding the common causes of fires can help homeowners take steps to prevent them in the first place. Heating Heating the home can be a typical source of fire dangers, simply because so many heat sources involve flame or combustion. Anything that produces heat, from a wood-burning stove to a furnace, needs plenty of clearance. Many buildings and homes have fireplaces that are either gas or burn wood. If something flammable sits too close to a space heater, fireplace or open flame, it might catch fire. Homeowners should ensure that all heating equipment they use is in good condition with regular upkeep. They must keep children, pets, and belongings at least a meter from the heat source. Furnaces and heat pumps are built to be used with or without an adult present, but other heating equipment should only be turned on or used with supervision. Cooking Fires related to cooking are the most common. A fire could start when someone is cooking in a couple of different ways. First, the flame itself from a gas-powered range could burn skin or clothing. Second, even a range running on electricity could catch something else on fire. To avoid this problem, people need to be aware of the hot spots on their range and oven. Adequate ventilation can help to reduce the effects of smoke accumulation and other emissions. People should avoid putting items that are not heat-safe on top or in the oven, especially if it is turned on or has been used recently. Electricity Watching a lightning storm displays the awesome, raw power of electricity. Although the home can tame electric power to some degree, homeowners still have to take caution. Electrical outlets should only be used as directed. Parents need to keep children from using or playing with plugs and outlets. If people notice a problem, they should ask an electrician for assistance. A damaged plug, cord, or outlet could spark an electrical fire. Periodically checking all outlets and the circuit panel, and minimizing overuse of any one outlet, can help reduce the likelihood of a crisis. Open Flame Of course, the most obvious source of fire in the home is an actual flame. Although most people would not light a fire in the middle of the living room, they might not think anything of lighting a candle or a cigarette in the same space. Flame-less candles are an excellent way to provide ambient light without increasing the risk of fire damage. People should plan to smoke outside, or smoke with an appropriate ashtray nearby. In either case, homeowners must confirm that the flame is completely extinguished before they can safely leave the room. Flammable Materials Sometimes, the biggest problem in the home is not the thing that starts the fire, but rather the item that carries the flame. There are many types of materials in the home that could catch fire and rapidly spread it from room to room. These include: • wood furniture • paper • clothing • cleansers • solvents Anything that might be flammable should be kept at least a few feet away from an open flame, heat source or equipment that can burn fuel. Although some of these items may be in a car garage for safe-keeping, they should keep in mind that a car can also spark a flame. Finding a safe place to keep flammable items, or disposing of them safely, is a homeowner’s best bet. Compromised Supervision All of these fire dangers become significantly greater in the hands of someone who is ill-equipped to manage them. Adults who are very sleepy or under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medicine may be more likely to make a deadly mistake while cooking or cleaning. Young children need to stay away from (and not have easy access to) heat sources, electrical equipment, and candles, lest they knock something over and start a fire. Alert adult supervision is the best hedge against disaster. In order to prevent home fires from damaging their property, residents must take preventive steps. With these tips, they can minimize their overall fire risk Water Damage due Flooding event and what you need to know.What to do in Water Damage due Flooding event
With climate change forecasted we result in more floods and water damage to infrastructure, we all need to be ready to deal with the problem, should it happen to you. GTA Restoration, who specialize in flood damage restoration work in Toronto & GTA, are stressing how important it is for local residential and commercial property owners and tenants, to know what to do and prevent Flooding. Natural Resources Wales (NRW) set out the following step-by-step guidelines to follow, to stay safe and protect your property as much as you can. 1. If a flood is imminent • If you have a flood plan, follow it carefully • Tune into your local radio station on a battery or wind-up radio for information, or contact the 24 hour Flood and Water Damage Emergency line @ 1 800 506 6048 • Switch off your electricity / gas supplies • Move vehicles to higher ground if it is safe to do so • Move furniture, pets and important items to safety, 1st floor areas if convenient and accessible 2. Stay alert to localised flooding Local flooding’ is also known as ‘surface Water Damage due flooding’. This might usually occur where all drainage systems are unable to cope with super heavy spells of rainfall. NRW are unable to provide prior warning about this type of flooding, so it is worth checking your local weather forecasts for such predictions. 3. Remember – Floodwater is dangerous Did you know that it can take just 6 inches of fast flowing water to knock you over and just 2 feet of water will float your car, so: • Be aware that flooding can cause manhole covers to come off, exposing to a hidden danger • Be aware that bridges sometime may be dangerous to walk or drive over • Do not try to walk or drive through in high level of water from flood. • Do not let children play in flooding water • Do not walk on defences or riverbanks • Look out always for hazards, such as fallen power lines or trees • Wash your hands thoroughly always if you have touched flood and water as it may be contaminated 4. What to do after a flood • Assess whether it is safe to return to your property: (check first with the local emergency services) • Watch out for hidden dangers in floodwater, such as sharp objects, raised manhole covers and pollution • Be aware that flood water might have caused structural damage to your property • Remember that flood water can contain hazardous sewage, chemicals and animal waste. • Check with the local emergency services that it is safe before returning to your flood damaged property 5. Ring your buildings and contents insurance company as soon as possible to prepare for flood damage restoration • In almost all most cases, the insurance company dos send a loss adjuster to look at your property. They will confirm what repairs and replacements are needed for your property and what elements are covered by your policy. Ask if they will help you by paying for repairs that can reduce potential flood or water damage and therefore reduce costs if it happens again • If you rent your property, contact your landlord and check if you’re covered for your contents insurance company as soon as possible • If you don’t have insurance, contact your local council and they should be able to provide information on hardship grants or charities that may be able to help you 6. Consult your local flood and water damage restoration experts In the event that you experience flood damage in your property, your best course of action is to seek the advice of flood and water damage restoration experts, like GTA Restoration GTA Restoration will be able to return the property to its pre-incident condition or much better as quickly as possible, by working with GTA Restoration Group you will be minimizing any secondary damage, efficiently and effectively, with minimum of disruption. Flood damage is a process that can have serious consequences for the structure and integrity of your property, if the operation is not handled by restoration experts in this field. Call GTA Restoration North York branch for help, advice or action, 24-hours a day on 800-506-6048 Where to Find Ideal Water Damage CompanyWhere to Find Ideal Water Damage Company
We are the Ideal water damage restoration company and you can trust us with any job, any size, we will be promptly at your door with our specialist to solve your problem as quickly as possible Finding the ideal water damage company can be a pretty tedious process. As such, it is important that you get to know where you can be able to find one. To date, there are already many avenues where you can be able to land on one. It is duly important in this case that you happen to have one the soonest. Hence, if you are still looking for that great company, simply consider these options. Internet The best and the easiest way to find a water damage company would be from the Internet. You can start by opening your preferred search engine. From there you can just type the phrase water damage company. You may also include the place where you are residing in order to get a more refined output. From there, simply wait for a few seconds depending on your Internet bandwidth. Then click on each returned result and identify if this is one company you would like to hire. If it is, then you can contact them via phone or via email for further assessment. Friends Another great avenue where you can be able to find a water damage company would be from friends. I am certain they can be able to name a company or two most especially to those who experienced the same fate as you before. From there, you can then be able to ask them right away. Furthermore they can also be able to provide reviews on that certain company. You would be delighted on the kind of feedback they can provide you. Forums Another avenue where you can be able to find related companies would be from forums. Simply join in a water damage company forum and create a new thread asking for their recommendations. In a matter of minutes, replies will be shown in line with the question. They may also be able to redirect you by giving their numbers, emails and even sites of the water damage company. To date, there are already many avenues where you can be able to find the ideal water damage company. Hence, if you happen to encounter this kind of problem, it would be best that you get to follow these avenues where you can be able to get one the soonest. Construction and Property RepairWater Damage Repairs Contractor
Finding the right contractor after a Flood and Water Damage event Are you currently affected by water damage? Perhaps do you have properties that were severely damaged because of this kind of incident? If that is the case, then worry no more. As such, there are already tons of contractors that you can be able to contact with regards to this kind of concern. Even more, they are just a call or an email away. They can be relatively easy to get in touch with. For sure you can be able to even search one online. There are already varied modes where you can be able to hire one the soonest. However, with the many possible providers that you can get and have, which one to hire? This is one big question to start. If you are imploring the aid of water damage contractor to fix just about any water damage concern of yours there are things to keep in mind when hiring an appropriate water damage company. If you haven’t had this kind of concern before, here’s a small checklist that you can carry around. Company Background The first thing to consider would be the background of the company. Identify when did the company started. The longer they are in the business, the better they are. Most reputable brands and companies have been in the business for quite some time. This could also mean that they are good with the job. Identify as well what the company is expert at. Are they geared towards water drying? Perhaps mold and mildew cleaning? And more. From there, assess also your concern if it best fits the kind of service of the water damage company. You may also opt for the other ones if you think they are not particularly good at in solving your specific concern. Reviews and testimonials Another thing to take note when picking a good company for you would be to read on related reviews and testimonials from their former clients. It would be best that you get to know how good or how bad they are in the first place. And what better way to identify it but from the words of their former consumers. With this, you can be able to gauge the quality of work they can provide and can deliver to you. There are still other things you might want to look at when finding the right company for you. Of course, there is still that reputation, credibility and all. However, the first two that were mentioned are already good indicators of a company to trust. That is why prior to hiring do your homework about them first. When we talk about water damage repairs, it is necessary to ensure and also safeguard the structure of the house. After all, if ever a water damage could happen, this could greatly deteriorate the house and more so the properties that were affected. This is a major concern for many homeowners. It is a great loss in the process because it can affect the entire area and more so the house. The damage can also either be minor or major. Regardless of the initial damage, in the end it will be progressive and can turn catastrophic. With that in mind, it is but right that you get to consider varied items and things should that occur in your home. When confronted with this kind of concern, water damage repairs can address a good number of risks. For one, there are several kinds of damage that are cause by water. The first level is due to clear water. Second is because of broken pipes and even water spots. Then we have gray water that has contaminants. This could be sewage water or even failure of water to be discharged out. Then we have the black water than can be caused by catastrophic events and this can be relatively hard to fix. When solving a water damage problem, it is best to identify what kind of water that seeps in your property. After identifying the water colour, the next thing to note would be to ask your-self if a DIY would be ideal. When considering it, there are in fact DIY methods that are relatively simple and easy to do. For instance, if the damage has not seeped through the system across your home and also the furniture, you can do simple repairs. You can also pump the water out of the house. However, if the problem is widespread like wooden structures have been moistened with broken pipes or what not, it would be best to call the experts for this regard. You see, this could develop molds and mildew over time. And this can cause illness. If something like this happen to your house, it would be best that you get to resort it to the expert. Give a call to your trusted water damage repair. In a minute they would be able to scout the entire property and they can be able to work on it right away. True you may need for you to fund it however you would be guaranteed that they will give your home and your property a new life as if no damage occurred at all. Construction and Property Repair after a Water Damage When we talk about water damage, it is necessary to ensure and also safeguard the structure of the house. After all, if ever a water damage could happen, this could greatly deteriorate the house and more so the properties that were affected. This is a major concern for many homeowners. It is a great loss in the process because it can affect the entire area and more so the house. The damage can also either be minor or major. Regardless of the initial damage, in the end it will be progressive and can turn catastrophic. With that in mind, it is but right that you get to consider varied items and things should that occur in your home. When confronted with this kind of concern, water damage repairs can address a good number of risks. For one, there are several kinds of damage that are cause by water. The first level is due to clear water. Second is because of broken pipes and even water spots. Then we have gray water that has contaminants. This could be sewage water or even failure of water to be discharged out. Then we have the black water than can be caused by catastrophic events and this can be relatively hard to fix. When solving a water damage problem, it is best to identify what kind of water that seeps in your property. After identifying the water colour, the next thing to note would be to ask yourself if a DIY would be ideal. When considering it, there are in fact DIY methods that are relatively simple and easy to do. For instance, if the damage has not seeped through the system across your home and also the furniture, you can do simple repairs. You can also pump the water out of the house. However, if the problem is widespread like wooden structures have been moistened with broken pipes or what not, it would be best to call the experts for this regard. You see, this could develop molds and mildew over time. And this can cause illness. If something like this happen to your house, it would be best that you get to resort it to the expert. Give a call to your trusted water damage repair. In a minute they would be able to scout the entire property and they can be able to work on it right away. True you may need for you to fund it however you would be guaranteed that they will give your home and your property a new life as if no damage occurred at all. Carpet and Rug Cleaning TorontoWhen it comes to a family heirloom that becomes damaged, such as your favourite valuable rug, critical steps must be taken in order to save it. Because it’s precious to you and your family, we make sure to take special care of it. Below are the top five steps we take when dealing with a valuable rug.
1. We will come to your house and pick up the rug and bring it back to our facility. It is always better to have your area rugs cleaned by a professional area rug cleaning company. Area rugs cleaned in our facility will always do a better job than a wall-to-wall carpet cleaning company can in your home. Although it may sound cheaper, it may ruin it. We will look at your rug and determine which cleaning method is most effective. For instance, we may go with Luster Wash, which is the ultimate cleaning for most rugs and carpets. We use our specially designed washing and area rug drying equipment, which allows solution to penetrate the deepest layer of the rug’s nap. This process removes ground-in dirt, gently, without crushing wool, which is necessary when it comes to your valuable rug. In most cases, this process will also restore the original look and texture. 2. For rugs that need particularly special care, we will go with our Hand or Dry Rug Cleaning method. All work is done by hand. This process is recommended for silk rugs, extremely fragile textiles, or rugs that have “fugitive” dyes which may run in a wet cleaning method. If your family heirloom is very old and needs that additional special attention, GTA Restoration may go with this method. 3. If your family heirloom needs further care, we may turn to our Restoration Services, which is a special formulated cleaning process done by hand by one of our Certified Rug Specialists. This is the finest, most gentle and thorough cleaning available for rugs that are old, fragile, valuable and warrant extraordinary care. This is a distinguished service provided by very few rug cleaning companies in the Toronto area. 4. Finally, we can Fiber-Guard your family heirloom, in efforts to protect it from stains, soil and wear. It is a safe, non-toxic, invisible stain protection for all soft surfaces. It provides superior top-to-bottom protection on each and every fiber in handmade rugs and carpets, wall-to-wall carpet, fabric and leather furniture, wall fabrics and draperies. Fiber-Guard will not wear off like other stain repellents and it will leave your fabric’s color, feel and texture unchanged while remaining safe and non-toxic. GTA Restoration Quick Reference Guide for Common Spills on Area Rugs: Always consult a professional before attempting to remove stains and spills! Here are some property remedies spotting techniques. Always check for color fastness before performing any work on stain removal or wet cleaning process on your carpet! * Alcohol and Wines: Blot up surplus spillage. * Chewing Gum: Scrape up with a proper carpet scraper. Use the Antibacterial Detergent and Vinegar solution. Work from out of the edge of the stain, using a little at the time and blotting with dry rug frequently. * Coffee: Blot up surplus spillage. Use good Detergent and Vinegar solution. Work from outer of the stain edge, using a little bit at a time and blotting with dry frequently clean cloth. * Glue: Scrape up excess with a blunt carpet scraper. Use Detergent solution, starting with outer edge and blot dry. Follow with Ammonia solution. Blot dry. * Ice Cream: Scrape up excess with a blunt carpet scraper. Use Detergent solution, starting with the outer edge and blot dry. Follow with Ammonia solution. Blot dry. * Soft Drinks: Blot up excess with blunt carpet scraper. Use Detergent and Vinegar solution. Work from the outer edge of the stain, using a little bit by bit at a time and blotting with dry cloths frequently. * Urine: Blot up excess with blunt scraper. Use Detergent and Vinegar solution. Work from the outer edge of the stain, using very little bit at a time by blotting with dry cloths frequently. * Solids: Scrape up with a blunt carpet scraper. Use Dry Cleaning Solvent followed by Detergent and Vinegar solution. Blot dry. * Chocolate: Blot up the surplus spillage. Use Detergent and Vinegar solution, starting with the outer edge and blotting dry. Follow with Ammonia solution. Blot dry. Our Toronto area rug cleaning experts are always just a phone call away at (416)-358-6666 should you need any advice. visit us for more tips regarding restoration techniques! |
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