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Flood Damage Warning Metro Detroit

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The National Weather Service has issued a flood damage warning for Metro Detroit. The Service is reporting an expanded period of heavy rain with the potential for 3 inches or more in some areas. The alert is issued for Friday thru Saturday. Rain, like this, in amounts of 3 inches or more can see very high run-off mainly due to frigid ground conditions.

Roads, rivers and creeks, and other low-lying areas could see widespread flooding according to the forecast. If you live in these flood damage warning zones, you should monitor weather forecasts. In addition, be alert and prepared for possible water damage due to flooding, especially along the lakeshore in St. Clair, Sanilac and Macomb counties.

What To Do in Case of Flood Warning

Everyone understands that tornadoes and hurricanes can destroy life. But when it comes down to it, the most dangerous weather event is definitely a flood. For instance, floods in the past 30 years have led to over $260 billion in damage and caused an average of 86 deaths a year in the United States. That number has escalated to over 100 deaths per year since 2015 alone. Climate change is increasing in heavy precipitation every decade and this trend is likely to continue.

A surprising fact about floods is that most of them (8 of 10) do not occur near the coastline. And, the odds are, you will face one long before any of your coastal friends. For instance, most flash floods occur as a result of heavy rains, storm surges, snow and even overflows from local dams or waterways. Pay attention to local alerts and National Weather Service warnings in your area to avoid life threatening events. In the event of a flood warning move to higher ground or a safer location nearby unless you are being ordered to evacuate.

If you experience flooded basement, roof leaks, or other water damage as a result of heavy rains and flooding Advance Restoration is available 24/7 to respond to your water damage repairs—877-363-7462.

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7 Tips For Winterizing to Avoid Homeowners Insurance Claims

Frozen burst pipes

Winter weather causes billions in homeowners insurance claims losses each year—it doesn’t have to.

Water damage, particularly the kind related to frozen or burst pipes accounts for the major share of homeowners insurance claims in Michigan.

Wrapping your pipes during winter months is recommended along with keeping your home at 65 degrees or more. Knowing where your home’s water shutoff valve is located will allow you to quickly shut off the water at its source in an emergency.

Following some basic maintenance steps can prevent catastrophic water damage from ruining your home and costing you money and grief. Be prepared by addressing problem areas around your home, here are a few tips: 

  1. Protect Indoor Pipes Burst pipes can cause up to $5,000 or more in damage. Pipe insulation costs a little as 50 cents per linear foot making it an inexpensive way to ward off frozen pipe issues. Insulation can be installed yourself around any exposed copper or PVC water pipes. 37% of all burst pipes occur in the basement so make sure to pay special attention to that area.
  2. Insulate Your Attic or Crawl Space
    By keeping your attic cooler, you can prevent ice dams from forming and damaging your roof. Insulating the attic with properly rated insulation will help to keep your attic cool and avoid any unnecessary pitfalls.
  3. Service Your Furnace and Chimney
    Heating equipment, fireplaces, and chimneys are some of the biggest culprits of home fires, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Having them serviced and inspected annually is a safe practice. Be sure to have the inspector examine the condition of the chimney—brick periodically needs maintenance to keep water from leaking in.
  4. Repair Loose Roofing & Shingles
    Doing a once-around your property to inspect your roof can go a long way to warding of potential hazards. If you notice loose, damaged, or missing shingles, have a licensed roofing contractor do a deeper inspection so and mend any damage before the first snow flies. It has been said that a single cubic foot of snow or ice can weigh 20 to 25 pounds—that kind of pressure can cause shifting of shingles, allowing water to penetrate your roof and leak into your home.
  5. Clean and Inspect Gutters
    Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and then freeze once temperatures drop. Keep gutters clear and properly connected to ensure that melting snow runs off your roof and through your downspouts.
  6. Prune Dead Branches
    Branches covered in snow can easily break and cause safety hazards aside from the potential to cause thousands of dollars of roof damage. Before the first snow, have a reputable contractor, remove dead or protruding branches that might compromise your property.
  7. Secure Outdoor Water Sources
    Drain and store garden hoses before the first inkling of frost to eliminate any chance they’ll freeze or burst. Shut off the water-supply valve to hose bibs, from inside your house or basement, then open the outdoor spigot  so any water trapped inside will drain free. Simply shutting off the spigot will cause trapped water to freeze and cause a burst pipe inside.

If you experience any kind of water damage to your home in Michigan don’t hesitate to contact us at Advance Restoration—We’re there when you need us.

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Storm Advisory for Southeastern Michigan

60 MPH Winds, Hail, Tornadoes Possible According to Recent Storm Advisory Warnings

Threats of thunderstorms, damaging winds 60 mph or higher and hail one inch in size expected to affect Southeastern Michigan today according to storm advisory. The expectation is for strong winds, hail and the potential for tornadoes in the area. Hazardous weather conditions may cause property damage. It is highly possible that homes will experience roof damage and broken windows, leading to water damage. Furthermore, Flood damage due to storms may also cause basement flooding.  The storm advisory warning will impact Macomb, Wayne, Washtenaw, Monroe, Lenawee, Livingston, Lapeer, and St. Clair counties along with some northern regions.

How to Avoid Property Damage Before the Storm

Surveying your property before the storm is a good idea that will help you to avoid the pitfalls of property damage. For instance, you can store items not bolted down such as trampolines and bbq’s. Furthermore, patio furniture that is lightweight should be stored prior to a storm. Storage sheds can be anchored down with cables or chains. Branches that are dead or in need of pruning should be clipped and trees that are dead or dying should be removed to avoid disaster.

For those of you in the path of the storm, we are there when you need us. For instance, we specialize in flood cleanup, water extraction, hail damage to roof, and fallen tree services in Southeastern Michigan. Call Advance Restoration for 24/7 response. Our experts are always ready to serve day or night, 365 days of the year.

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Does Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Mold?

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Homeowners insurance overage is contingent upon the wording of a policy and the source of mold.

For instance, nasty, unsightly mold can be found anywhere and usually it’s harmless. However, issues can arise when mold from consistent moisture goes unresolved. As a result, moisture leads to widespread growth. Therefore, coverage of mold damage remediation by your homeowners insurance boils down to the source of that mold. Basic policies exclude damage caused by fungi, mold, and bacteria. Keep in mind, that doesn’t mean your claim will be denied.

If mold results from sudden and accidental causes like a burst pipe, remediation costs should be covered. Technically speaking, the burst pipe is to blame. Neglected home maintenance, such as slow leak or exposure to humidity, would more likely be rejected by your provider.

Prevention is Key to Avoiding Mold Damage

The safest way to avoid a mold claim is to keep moisture and humidity at a minimum. Consequently, to prevent mold growth, take the following precautions:

  • Lower indoor humidity with dehumidifiers, air conditioners, and exhaust fans.
  • Inspect fittings on pipes, appliances, toilets and sinks
  • Use bleach and other household cleaners to keep mold at bay upon first sighting
  • Ask your local paint dealer about primers and paints that inhibit mold
  • Keep gutters clean and remove ice dams to avoid roof leaks
  • Do a seasonal check for moisture in areas that are prone
  • Avoid using carpeting in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms and basements
  • Remove textiles immediately after flooding, mold spores grow rapidly after the first 24-48 hours.

Reviewing your homeowners insurance policy for language pertaining to water damage limitations or exclusions will generally tell you if your covered. If you are suffering from mold damage and are unclear of your coverage, ask for clarity by providing our mold damage experts with a copy of your policy. We’re happy to help. We’ve worked alongside hundreds of carriers to remediate mold from policy holder’s homes. We’ve got you covered.

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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.

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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.

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Lead Water Mitigation Technician Job in Michigan

Advance Restoration located in Clinton Township, Michigan is one of the most trusted disaster recovery and restoration teams in Southeast Michigan and in the industry. We are proud to offer careers, not just a job to some of the most qualified, dedicated crews in the business, with everyone from our office staff to on-site recovery experts we are customer satisfaction driven and incomparably the most compassionate water damage and restoration company in southeast Michigan.

Why Work at Advance Restoration?

Advance Restoration is proud to offer a number of competitive benefits to our employees, including:

  • Benefit options
  • Company vehicle access
  • Company-distributed cell phones
  • Competitive wages and bonuses

If you are looking to join a hard-working, devoted restoration team in Michigan, Advance Restoration is the company for you! We are located in Clinton Township and service Oakland and Macomb Counties.

Open Positions

LEAD WATER TECH SUPERVISOR

We are looking for a Lead Water Mitigation Technician. 3 years experience and IICRC certified. You will be expected to take direction from the Operations Manager, and lead other technicians to accomplish tasks.

MUST BE WILLING TO RELOCATE OR LIVE WITHIN CLOSE PROXIMITY FOR TRAVEL TO CLINTON TWP MICHIGAN HEADQUARTERS.

We service Metro Detroit area.

Key Responsibilities as our Disaster Restoration Lead Water Mitigation Technician.

Oversee, and monitor technicians performing dry-out procedures, mold remediation, contents and fire clean-up will also play a roll in this position.

  • Front line and first responder for our company.
  • Inspect sites and present solutions to the customer.
  • Obtain/create daily reports from technicians that document equipment used and work performed.
  • Work closely with the Mitigation Manager/Project Coordinator ensuring proper schedule flow & timely job completion.
  • Effectively communicate with technicians, colleagues, and customers.
  • Sign up new customers and have contracts signed
  • Ensure projects are completed in established time frame and in accordance with IICRC guidelines.
  • Assess damage to determine work scope, including pictures, record of temperature / relative humidity and moisture % readings in affected areas and unaffected areas within the building and outdoors.
  • Must become familiar with and be able to visually recognize mold.
  • Must be IICRC Certified.
  • Investigates job site thoroughly to ensure mold is contained.
  • Uses and sets up appropriate equipment and has good knowledge of all equipment.

Job Qualifications

  • Able to use hand tools and electric tools safely and effectively.
  • Must possess strong problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrates integrity and honesty at all times.
  • Must participate as a team player and share “best practices”.
  • Communicates with customers and colleagues in a professional manner.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with a high volume of communication on a consistent basis and handle customers in a professional manner.
  • Willing to be coached – Accepts and applies corrective instruction quickly.
  • Assertive – Facilitates the sales process in a determined but friendly way.
  • Must possess a valid Michigan State Driver’s License.
  • Must be IICRC Certified
  • Other duties as required by position.

Experience

  • 3 Years Water Damage Mitigation Experience
  • IICRC Certifications. Basic general construction experience desired,

Job Type: Full-time

To Apply Click Here 

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Southeast Michigan Storm

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Michigan Storm Brings Hail, 50 MPH Winds and Power Outages

 

Power outages for thousands due to southeast Michigan storm today.  Beware of hail and high winds reaching 50 mph.  Storms may also cause basement flooding in Monroe, Michigan and surrounding areas as well as  property and water damage from hail.

The wrath of the southeast Michigan storm will likely center on Monroe and Lenawee counties with hail to a half inch in diameter and wind gusts up to 45 MPH. The storm has the potential to cause flooded basements, flooded property, and water damage due to loss of shingles causing roof damage. To avoid potential property damage and injury, it may be wise to secure outdoor outbuildings with chains and cables and store things like patio furniture, trampolines and basketball hoops to keep them from becoming airborne.

An approaching cold front is to blame for continued showers early this afternoon gradually clearing with a high near 78 and breezy. Rain forecast calls for 50-70% precipitation throughout the holiday weekend.

For those of you in the path of the storm in high flood areas, we are there when you need us. Call Advance Restoration for 24/7 response to water damage due to flood. We provide immediate relief with water extraction pump out and drying. Our experts are always ready to serve.

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3 Top Causes of Water Damage

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Many factors contribute to the destruction of water leakage in your home or business. Water can literally destroy hardwood flooring, drywall and important documents and electronics. Three of the most common causes of water damage are outlined below along with and some helpful tips for staying dry.

Water Damage and Extreme Temperatures

Changes in temperature that are extreme can cause pipes to crack, burst and leak. While we know this is common in consistently cold climates, burst pipes can happen with any type of temperature change that is extreme enough even in warmer climate zones.

Tip: Hot water temperatures can weaken your pipes over time so stay away from higher heat settings for this reason and protect your pipes by insulating them from the elements. 

Rusted Plumbing

Copper and steel pipes used in older home construction put your pipes at a higher level of risk. Rust accumulates and can block the flow of water in pipes allowing rust to take hold and weaken the structure of pipes causing erosion and consequently leaks.

Tip: Have a professional plumber give your pipes a tune up every 2-3 years to make sure the connections are secure and pipes are in good condition.

Natural Settling of Foundation

The natural settling of your home or property can cause cracks in the wall of your foundation causing water to seep through causing flooded basements or crawl spaces. Pipes can be displaced during times when settling is taking place causing them to weaken, crack, or even break leading to water damage or flooding.

Tip: Checking the walls of your foundation once a year can help to ward off any issues. If you find cracks upon inspection, contact an expert to determine how widespread the issue is and repair damage a timely manner to ward off unwanted water disasters.

Looking for water extraction and restoration from any type of water incident, contact the water damage experts—Advance Restoration.

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What to Do After a Storm

It is important to react quickly after receiving wind and hail damage storm. If it is extensive enough, water can infiltrate your home or business and cause long-lasting harm. Furthermore, rotten wood, ruined drywall, soaked insulation, and mold growth can occur from leaks after a storm. Responding within the first 48 hours is important to prevent long-term damage.

Here are some of the most important steps you can take after a storm

  • Ensure your building is safe. If there is major structural damage, downed power lines, fallen trees, gas leaks, or other serious problems, contact the appropriate authorities before entering the building or beginning any repairs.
  • Contact your insurance provider. To ensure your claim is processed quickly and fairly, be sure to contact your insurance provider immediately to start the claims process.
  • Document any losses. As you work to clean and repair your property, be sure to document any damage and losses with video, photographs, and copious notes.
  • Prevent further damage. If you have damaged roofing, siding, or windows, it is important to have them covered or repaired temporarily to prevent further damage.

At Advance Restoration, we can respond within 24 to 48 hours after a storm in the Oakland or Macomb County area. Our team of experts have the equipment and experience to secure your building, perform temporary repairs, help with the insurance claim process, and more.