Water Damage — Is Landscaping the Culprit?

Because of their low-lying positions, basements and crawlspaces are prone to leaks, moisture, mold, and water damage.  Unfortunately water damage to home structures is common due to invasive indoor and outdoor water sources.

One of the most prominent causes of water damage is your landscaping. The grade of your property must be designed to slope away from your foundation as water always runs downhill. Flowerbeds, although beautiful, can also pose a danger if planted too close to your foundation.

The good news is there are preventative steps you can take to ensure that your landscaping doesn’t contribute to basement or crawl space damage.

  • Check the grade of your landscape. Your landscape should slope away from your structure so that water flows away from, not toward your foundation.
  • Be sure to use fill dirt rather than topsoil in the areas surrounding the structure. Topsoil is absorbent and will take in lots of water and become over saturated eventually seeping into the ground and potentially making its way into cracks in your foundation.
  • Keep flowerbed plantings away from the foundation to keep water from traveling along your foundation’s wall.
  • Use a heavier ground cover as opposed to wood chips, which can wash away during a heavy storm clogging drainage ditches and causing them to overflow. Rocks or heavier mulch will be more likely to stay in place and the good news is you will be raking less of it off your lawn.
  • Shrubs and trees should be kept trimmed back away from the structure. Plantings that are too close to the home can cause water to run down the side of the structure making their way into cracks and crevices eventually causing moisture damage or serious leaks.
  • Keep gutters clean and free of leaves and debris that can cause water to dam up and overflow.

If you find yourself with a wet basement due to flooding or leaks caused by landscaping, hard rains, or water overflow there is hope. Contact a water damage specialist who is knowledgeable about water extraction, structural drying, dehumidification, and mold damage.

Homeowners Insurance. What’s Covered?

Homeowner's Insurance Coverage

You may be stunned to learn what your Homeowner’s policy doesn’t cover

Basic homeowners insurance policies cover your home and its contents if damaged or ruined. Hence, here is the complete list:

  • Fire
  • Lightning
  • Hail (dependent on area)
  • Windstorm (except in hurricane zones)
  • Smoke
  • Vandalism (excluded by some policies)
  • Theft
  • Explosion
  • Volcanic eruption
  • Riots
  • Civil Commotion
  • Vehicles (and airborne projectiles)
  • Aircraft (and airborne projectiles)

Some states don’t sell these basic policies. As a result, ssome require upgrades to cover more damages.

The Dreaded Homeowners Insurance Upgrade

An upgraded policy or HO-2 adds additional protection to your home and its contents. Subsequently, the HO-1 covers all of the items listed above, with these additions:

  • Weight of snow, ice, or sleet
  • Floods from appliances, plumbing, fire-protection sprinkler systems, and HVAC mishaps. Electronics such as computers are not a covered item.
  • Glass breakage
  • Abrupt collapse or caving of building

And so, this list applies also to homeowner’s insurance for condominiums or co-ops and is commonly referred to as HO-6 rather than HO-2.

The aforementioned lists are exactly what is covered on HO-1, HO-2, and HO-6. Consequently, if there’s a world apocalypse and that’s not on the list…it’s not covered.

But wait! There’s always HO-3 Homeowner’s Insurance

HO-3 is the most comprehensive form of homeowner’s insurance coverage. Accordingly, HO-3 covers just about everything you can imagine. In what follows, there are some specific exceptions:

  • Floods
  • Earthquakes
  • Wars
  • Nuclear accidents
  • Landslides
  • Mudslides
  • Sinkholes

The HO-3 policy also does not cover world apocalypse (War) but it does cover a lot.

What isn’t Covered by Homeowners Insurance

No one policy covers every possible type of damage that can destroy your property. Here’s what typical homeowners’ policies will not cover:

  • Improper or neglected maintenance
  • Hurricanes
  • Floods
  • Earthquakes
  • Mudslides
  • Landslides
  • Sinkholes
  • War
  • Nuclear accidents
  • Sewer backups
  • Sump pump failure
  • Ground movement and holes caused by mining
  • Pollution

Additional policies can be purchased to cover some, but not all, of these disasters. Even if insurance was available for the most common disasters in your area, you may not qualify if your property has distinct features. These features cause your home to be more vulnerable such as a thatched roof in an area where wildfires are the norm.

Additional Items Covered by Homeowners Insurance

Here are four more items that are covered:

  • Landscaping, hardscaping and outbuildings (up to 10% of your policy, 5% for plants)
  • Damage or loss of personal belongings (laptops, computers, jewelry, etc.)
  • Temporary living expenses if your home is unlivable (hotel bills and meals)
  • Injuries or accidents at home (slip and fall, dog bites, etc.)

What if you have an Older Home?

That’s what HO-8 is for. 

When your home is older, and it is no longer reasonable to assume you could replace it to its original status. HO-8 steps in. Items such as electrical that could not be replaced as original and meet current code requirements.

A HO-8 policy covers many of the same disasters as the basic HO-1 policy. HO-8 will only pay repair costs to market value not replacement value.

It is possible to purchase a “Law and Ordinance” policy that covers the cost of rebuilding using current building codes.

That about covers the ins and outs of homeowner’s policies. If you experience damage to your home or property and you are not sure if you are covered under your homeowner’s policy, give Advance Restoration a call at 866-465-2409. One of our experts will walk you through your policy’s coverage.

Typical Home Inspections—What They Don’t Say

Home inspector

 

It’s what is not included in home inspections that’s important

Typical home inspections do not include looking for insect or animal infestations or cracks that cause water damage, or mold. E-gads! Most people assume that these dastardly home damaging items are part of every home inspection punch list, but inspectors are not licensed to find them.

Mold, rats, termites, oh my! Home Inspections nightmares.

Your inspector may note that the floors are spongy or saggy. There may be evidence of termites in your home or insulation is torn and tattered possibly caused by rats.  Black junk on the walls might be evidence of growing fungus however; to prove that it indeed is termite, rodent, or mold infestation, you need to hire a specialist.

Don’t take a dive into unknown waters

Is your home inspector certified for all types of damage to your property? If your home has a swimming pool, for instance, they may turn on the pump or heater to ensure working condition but may not look for cracks that cause leaks and ultimately water damage. To get to the bottom of what is really going on, you may need to hire a septic systems expert or a property damage expert. A pool leak could cause significant flood damage issues considering the amount of water it contains.

Roof walking, or not?

Your inspector is not required to get onto the roof to inspect it. If the roof is more than one story high, and the weather is bad, they may stay squarely planted on the ground—taking notes from there. Walking the roof is the way a true property damage specialist will inspect it. A professional will look for damaged gutters, loose or missing shingles, or clogged downspouts as well as the general condition of the roof.  In addition,  a specialist will check inside the home for areas that appear to be compromised by leaks.

Call a property damage expert If your home inspection even slightly eludes to termites, rats, mold, cracks, leaks, or missing shingles. A consultation can help to eliminate the possibility of damage that can be hidden from the naked eye of a novice.  Advance Restoration specializes in property damage from water damage to fire damage, roof damage to mold remediation and, with our free assessment promotion, there is nothing to lose.

Thunderstorm and 60 MPH Winds in S.E. MI

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Threats of thunderstorm, high winds and hail one inch in size possibly moving through Southeastern Michigan today. The potential is real for strong wind to cause hail and roof damage. There is potential for damage to windows, roofing and property. Water damage due to roof leaks can wreck havoc on the interior of your home. Depending on how much precipitation—sewer backups may be an issue.

Thunderstorm may also cause basement flooding.  The warnings impact Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Lenawee, Monroe, Lapeer, Livingston, St. Clair, Washtenaw, Shiawassee, Genasee, Sanilac, Tuscola, Saginaw, Bay, Huron and Midland counties.

Apparently, an approaching cold front is to blame for continued showers early this afternoon gradually clearing Thursday, making way for a great weekend weather. For every storm, there is a rainbow.

For those of you in the path of the thunderstorm, we are there when you need us. Our team is nearby for flood cleanup, water extraction, hail damage to roof, fallen tree services and more in Southeastern Michigan. Open for emergency service calls for thunderstorm damage repairs 365 days a year. Our storm repair experts are standing by in our mobile command centers in your area. Professionals will assess the damage and create a plan for recovery. Responding to water or storm damage in a timely fashion is critical to full recovery. Avoiding secondary damage can shave time and money from damage repairs.

Call Advance Restoration for 24/7 response to roof repair or water damage due to flood. We provide immediate relief with water extraction pump out and roof repairs. Our experts are always ready to serve.

They say nothing in life is Free. WRONG.

Chocolate Chip Cookie

Here’s where to get free or nearly free chocolate chip cookies on National chocolate chip day!

With all that’s going on in the world the team at Advance Restoration thought it would be nice to share the joy of a free cookie rather than disaster, pandemics, and pandemonium. That being said, today, May 15, is National Chocolate Chip Day

Nothing is quite as comforting or brings as much joy as a warm chocolate filled cookie—especially one that is FREE or well, nearly free in some cases. Here is a list of all the places and locations in Michigan that you can restore your faith in all that is good and sink your teeth into a chocolate chip cookie for next to nothing:

Don’t let the day pass you by without experiencing a little joy in the way of a free or darn near free cookie! If you get any extras, we won’t mind if you leave them on our doorstep!

At Advance, we see ourselves as first responders. When our customers have a disaster like flooding, sewage backup, storm damage, or fire—we’re there when they need us. As first responders we are also the first to lineup for cookies so bring em’ on!

5 Bad Habits That Can Ruin Your Home

piggy bank savings

Keep more money in your pocketbook, break just one of these habits today

We all have habits. Some habits are good while others not so much. It’s the bad habits that are can ruin your home limiting your ability to be content, efficient and enjoy a bigger bank account.

Here are 5 bad habits you can break now to live a happier life, and have a fatter wallet!

#1 Stop taking Long Hot Steamy Showers

We all can agree there is nothing better than taking a long hot shower but doing so can cause mold to build up on shower surfaces such as faucets, grout, and the top of shower surrounds. That’s just icky! 

Did you know that more than half of all U.S. homes have mold? According to documentary titled MOLDY,  produced by Bulletproof Films, mold toxins are running rampant in our homes. Although mold and fungi are common in nature as they help to decompose leaves, trees, and dead plants they can become dangerous in the indoors and ruin your home. Mold thrives where there is moisture making your shower the perfect environment for mold growth. 

Always remember to turn on the exhaust fan while showering and wipe any moisture off the walls afterwards—using a squeegee is a great way to quickly accomplish this. Be sure to scrub the grout every few weeks to remove any mold seen or unseen. These tips will surely save you money on re-grouting or tearing out a moldy shower or tile surround which can be costly.

#2 Wasting Water with a Half-Full Dishwasher

Are you the type that prides yourself on your clean kitchen, no dishes in the sink, crumbs always swept away? If you like to stay on top of things then you’re also probably constantly filling the dishwasher and running it even before its full. Yup, been there, done that.  But about that: You are wasting water unless it is completely full. No matter how many dishes are in the machine it uses the same amount of water regardless. It can wait—just fill as the day goes on add your soap and press the start button before bed when the machine is full and voila! You’ll have clean dishes in the morning and you’ll feel good about doing your part for Mother Earth!

#3 Leaving Electronics on Overnight

Guilty! Do you also leave your computer, TV, or printer on overnight? 

You can save about $12 bucks a month by simply shutting these electronics off at night before bed. 

According to the experts, the electrical system in your home could become overheated if it’s expected to provide more power than it is capable of producing. Overburdening the electrical system can cause an electrical fire to cause serious fire and smoke damage to your home. Don’t plug too many devices into outlets or power strips. Unplug devices that are not in use, you will not only be safe from electrical fire but save money and even your life!

#4 Flushing Sanitary Wipes

Tissue is made to break down, but unlike ordinary toilet paper household cleaning wipes are made of woven fibers that do not breakdown and are more likely to clog your drainage system. Blockages in the drain lines of your home can mean costly repairs to your sewage system let alone the damage that can be done by sewage backup requiring water extraction from your basement. It’s costly and can ruin your home life. Just don’t do it!

 #5 Oven Overflows

Everyone of us has baked a pie or a gooey casserole that splatters, sputters, and drips into the bottom of the oven. The problem is that these crumbs and greasy messes can catch fire. Not only can it ruin your meal, but your entire kitchen could go up in smoke damaging everything in its path. To avoid costly fire damage repairs, wipe up spills immediately after the appliance cools and clean the interior of the oven multiple times a year. 

Bad habits are hard to break but when you consider the cost to your pocketbook it makes these habits all the more worth breaking.

Photo by maitree rimthong from Pexels

How to Avoid Property Damage

3 Spring Tasks Homeowners Always Do to Avoid Property Damage

Easy April projects that keep your home safe

#1 Green Up to Avoid Property Damage

Patching those bare spots in the lawn can keep water out of your home as spring rains and storms roll in—make this one of your annual spring duties to avoid property damage.

Grass is an effective barrier for excess rain. Those in-the-know use grass and valleys to redirect water away from a home’s foundation. And the best news is, it saves you thousands of dollars compared to other waterproofing methods.

#2 Become an Inspector!

Investigate your roof for leaks—taking a close look at your roof after a long winter is the ideal way to avoid leaks and roof repair down the road.. 

Slink around the outside of your house with some binoculars. Yes, we said slink. Binoculars give you a closer looksee and is much safer than roof walking. Look for signs of property damage such as:

  • Loose shingles
  • Damaged or clogged gutters
  • Peeling paint
  • Foundation cracks
  • Detached downspouts

Most of these issues can, and should, be easily repaired at a relatively low cost to protect the inside of your home from water damage that can become even more costly.

#3 Change the Battery—Chirp, Chirp

Smoke detector batteries lose charge over time—change them twice per year to avoid the dreaded chirp!

What better time to refresh those batteries than spring and winter? Almost all types of smoke detectors chirp to let you know it’s time to change the battery. However, why is it that chirp always seems to happen in the middle of the night? 

Getting ahead of the game by scheduling a battery swap can go a long way to keeping your sanity intact while protecting your home from disaster.

That about sums up our Spring to-do list. If you find property damage during your inspection and you’re not sure what to do, contact Advance Restoration at 877-363-7462.

Understanding the Most Common Causes of Water Damage in Your Home or Business

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Water. It’s essential for life, but when it infiltrates where it shouldn’t, it can become a truly destructive force. From warping beautiful hardwood floors and crumbling drywall to jeopardizing vital documents and sensitive electronics, the aftermath of water damage can be significant and stressful.

At Advance Restoration, we understand the disruption and worry that unexpected water intrusion can cause. That’s why we want to shed light on some of the most frequent culprits behind these unwelcome events, along with some practical advice to help you keep your property dry and protected.

1. The Silent Saboteur: Aging Plumbing and Corrosion

If your home or business features older construction with copper or steel pipes, your plumbing system might be at a higher risk than you think. Over time, these materials can succumb to rust and corrosion. This internal buildup can not only restrict water flow but also weaken the structural integrity of the pipes themselves. As the rust takes hold, it erodes the pipe walls, eventually leading to pinhole leaks or even significant bursts.

Pro Tip for Prevention: Think of a plumbing tune-up like a regular check-up for your car. Having a qualified plumber inspect your pipes every 2 to 3 years can make a world of difference. They can ensure connections are secure, identify early signs of corrosion, and advise on necessary maintenance to keep your system in top shape.

2. The Temperature Tango: When Extremes Lead to Trouble

We often associate frozen pipes with harsh winter climates, and for good reason. When temperatures plummet, the water inside pipes can freeze and expand, creating immense pressure that can cause them to crack or burst. However, it’s important to realize that extreme temperature changes – even in warmer regions – can also put stress on your plumbing. Rapid shifts can cause materials to contract and expand at different rates, potentially leading to leaks.

Pro Tip for Prevention: Be mindful of your hot water settings. Excessively high temperatures can actually weaken your pipes over time. Additionally, taking the time to insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces, can provide crucial protection against temperature fluctuations.

3. The Ground Beneath Your Feet: Natural Foundation Settling

The very ground your property rests on can sometimes contribute to water damage. Over time, the natural settling of a building’s foundation is almost inevitable. While often a gradual process, this movement can unfortunately lead to cracks forming in foundation walls. These cracks can then become pathways for groundwater to seep into basements and crawl spaces, resulting in dampness, mold growth, and even significant flooding. Furthermore, this settling can also put stress on nearby pipes, potentially causing them to weaken, crack, or even break.

Pro Tip for Prevention: Make it a habit to visually inspect your foundation walls at least once a year. Look for any new or widening cracks. If you spot anything concerning, it’s wise to consult with a foundation expert. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent minor cracks from escalating into major water intrusion problems.

Dealing with water damage can be overwhelming, but understanding the common causes is the first step towards prevention. If you do find yourself facing the aftermath of a leak or flood, remember that the experts at Advance Restoration are here to help. We have the experience and expertise to assess the damage, implement effective restoration solutions, and get your property back to its pre-loss condition. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance.

Who’s the Best Damage Restoration Company?

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Searching for the best restoration company in Southeast Michigan?

If you suffering from water damage from flooding, ice daming, storming, or plumbing problems in Oakland County, Michigan? Advance Restoration is the best restoration company near Oakland County. They are a full-service, one- stop restoration company for water, fire, wind, mold and contents.

Advance Restoration offers comprehensive restoration services for all your restoration repairs. With 24/7 response time,  experts will respond quickly with the experience and equipment necessary to minimize the long-term damage to your industrial, commercial, or residential property. From the initial damage assessment to drying the structure and packing out its contents for secure storage and restoration. Advance can help through every step of the water damage restoration process.

With over 15 years in business and decades of practical experience in the field, this IICRC certified firm has what it takes to get the job done. Their stellar reputation speaks for itself. Advance’ restoration experts are IICRC certified—the gold standard for disaster restoration cleanup in the industry.

Rest assured the job will be done with expertise and care by the best restoration company in Oakland County and all of Southeast Michigan.

  • Available 24/7, 365 Days of the Year for Emergency Service
  • Quick Response Times
  • Quality and Satisfaction
  • Trained and IICRC Certified Experts
  • Advanced Technology

If you are searching for “the best water damage restoration company near me?” Look no further, call toll free at 810-356-5923 for help or contact Advance Restoration today to set up an appointment. We offer fast response times throughout Macomb and Oakland County, Michigan.

While you wait for our team to arrive, follow these Water Damage Tips to mitigate the impact as much as possible.

Trees —Never Plant One Next To Your House

trees

Those first warm days of spring are exhilarating. Warmer weather has us thinking of all the possibilities for our yard’s landscape. Off we go to the local nursery where brightly colored packages of flower bulbs call our name and young sapling trees come tagged with the promise of blossoms or fruit. “We’ll plant the tree just outside the window where we can watch it grow for generations”, you say. It all sounds great. Until the tree grows up.

Planting a tree too close to your house can be dangerous. In addition to the risk of falling branches, roots from mature trees can weaken your homes foundation and cause basement water leaks not to mention potential clogged plumbing and sewer pipes that could lead to water damage and repairs. When the roots of trees infiltrate your pipes, costs can go upwards of $5000 for repairs.

Plant trees that will grow medium to large size at least 30 to 50 feet away from the house. Smaller trees (30 feet or less) at least eight to ten feet away. Following these planting tips should protect you from fallen tree mishaps, and water damage due to rogue root growth around sewer pipes and plumbing.

If you experience water damage due to foundation leaks or broken pipes, call the professionals at Advance Restoration—We’re there when you need us.