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Does Water Damage Get Worse Over Time

We all know water damage is bad for our homes, but does it get worse with time? Or does all the water damage happen at once, leaving you with a giant mess to clean up? The truth is that water damage occurs in grades, and the sooner you get the damage cleaned up, the better you can restore your home. 

Today’s blog covers water damage and how it gets worse over time. Since it does, you’ll probably want a timeline to know what you’re dealing with.

Keep reading to learn more! 

What Causes Water Damage?

The best way to handle water damage is by taking preventative measures so that you never have to worry about it in the first place. However, that isn’t always realistic. Sometimes leaks or spills happen under your nose. After all, you can’t have eyes everywhere 24/7, nor can you control all the causes of water damage.

Issues like flooding, thunderstorms, sewage backups, and clogged gutters can all cause water damage. Of course, you can’t control the weather. Backups and clogged gutters aren’t always noticeable. Sometimes, it’s only when you have a severe backup that the problem becomes apparent. 

The problem is when water makes contact with a surface; it’s when the water is left there instead of being cleaned up. It will sink into the surface, damaging it. And if left unchecked for long enough, mold will grow. 

In reality, mold is the real enemy, but it doesn’t happen on its own. You have to have the right environment for mold to grow. A damp, dark place is mold’s favorite place to show up. 

When Water Causes Damage

Water damage can happen overnight. Surfaces like hardwood floors absorb the water and get damaged as a result. You’ll quickly notice buckling planks. Other areas, like drywall, can hold up for a little longer since it has room to dry out, unlike flooring. 

So, how quickly water damage occurs depends on the area, how much water is present, and how long the water has been there.   

Water Damage Timeline

As we mentioned, the sooner you tackle water damage, the less damage there will be. We generally separate the timeline into three segments. Getting to the damage in the first 24 hours is ideal; the first week is better late than never; but over a week, and you’re looking at significant damage. 

  • First 24 Hours

    The worst part about water damage is how quickly it soaks through everything around it. Anything within the water’s vicinity will get damaged, if not ruined. That includes sentimental items like books and photographs. It also includes soft furnishings and upholstery. Water will soak right through all of these items.
  • You’ll notice the damage when drywall, furniture, wooden doors, or window frames start to swell. Your paint or wallpaper will peel or blister. And you might notice issues with your electricity.
  • That’s all within the first 24 hours, making it paramount to remedy water damage as soon as you spot it.
  • The First Week
    After the first 24 hours, the water damage will get worse with each passing hour. While you might not spot mold during the first day, it is certain to grow as time goes by. Enough mold, and you’ll have a biohazard on your hands.
    If you have metal surfaces in your home, they could start corroding, and damage to wood surfaces and walls will only worsen. The more time that passes, the less likely it’s possible to repair your home. And, trust us, repairing your home is cheaper than replacing walls, surfaces, or furniture.
  • Over A Week
    If it’s been over a week since the water first leaked or spilled, you for sure have a biohazard on your hands. Damage increases exponentially with every passing day. It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to repair anything.
    You’ll probably need to replace most of your belongings, as they’ll either be rotting with mold or permanently destroyed. It’s essential to get a professional’s help with this level of mold damage to ensure that there’s no structural damage to your house that could render it dangerous to live in. 

What to Do With Water Damage

So, you’ve learned about the causes of water damage and what you’ll be facing as time goes on, but what should you do in the moment when you detect mold in your home? 

We recommend the following steps:

  1. Evacuate your family and pets from your home. Staying with a family member or friend is ideal in a circumstance like this. You don’t want anyone breathing in mold.
  2. Gather any undamaged valuables, and take them with you.
  3. Turn off your breaker box to cut off electricity in your home. Water damage and electricity do not mesh well! The exception to this is if there’s water around your breaker box. In that case, don’t go near it, or you could get electrocuted.
  4. Contact professionals if the water is black or gray, or if you know it came from sewage backup. You have a biohazard on your hands, so don’t attempt to clean it up on your own.
  5. Call your insurance company as soon as possible. Explain what caused the damage, and describe how severe it looks to you. The experts will be able to determine the full extent of the damage, and your insurance company will help arrange that. 

Black Diamond Restoration Can Help.

You’ll want to call in the professionals if your home has suffered from water damage. A tiny spill instantly cleaned up will never cause a problem, but a patch of water damage left untouched can truly cause issues. 

The experts at Black Diamond Restoration are here to repair, restore, or remove the damaged parts of your home. We’re equipped to handle extensive damage, so don’t hesitate to call us, no matter how bad the water damage in your home is.
Call us at 801.512.4194, or visit our website to learn more about us. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have. Repair your home today with Black Diamond Restoration.

Mold in Drywall: How To Know It’s There and What to Do About It

We’ve all heard awful stories about the damage to buildings and the health issues that mold in drywall can cause. But how do you know if mold is in your home or office? After all, mold can grow almost anywhere.

Mold begins as microscopic spores that travel through the air. When those spores find a space that allows for growth, they begin to replicate. Mold thrives in warm, damp environments, so mold spores will quickly claim areas with those characteristics as their home.

Identifying mold can be tricky, but some places are more prone to mold, and if you suspect mold, it should be investigated quickly. However, mold is not always readily visible and needs a little more effort to be found. Here are four common signs of mold to be aware of and how to remove and prevent it. 

Signs of Mold

Musty smell– Any living thing goes through different stages of growth, and mold is no exception. When mold is present and growing, it is also releasing different gases. Known as microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs), the MVOCs disperse through the air as they are emitted and can come into contact with other surfaces.

These MVOCs are the main culprit for the musty smell accompanying mold and mildew that can also lead to health issues like headaches, nausea, and dizziness. Some describe the smell as similar to damp soil, an old locker room, or wet fur. 

So, if an area of your home starts to smell a bit funky, you’ll want to look closer to see if mold is growing there.

Dark stains– Mold can appear in many colors but is usually dark brown, black, or grey. It can sometimes be hard to differentiate from the dirt and grime found in most homes. 

The difference, however, is that even after mold and mildew have been cleaned, the dark stains return very quickly and become larger or spread to other areas. These areas are usually accompanied by the musty smell described above. 

Warped Walls– Sometimes mold can begin to grow under the surface, making it more challenging to identify if there is a problem. The surface tends to become warped or misshapen when mold grows under paint, wallpaper, flooring, or drywall. Having mold in drywall can cause structural damage and health problems. 

Even if a surface has not experienced recent water damage, it can begin to warp as mold expands underneath. Pay close attention to surfaces that start to bubble or crack.

Allergy or Asthma Flare-Ups- Because mold spores exist in the air around us, we breathe them in all the time to a minimal degree. When more particles of mold and the accompanying MVOCs are present in the air, there’s a greater chance the mold will cause health issues.                   

People with allergies and asthma are more likely to experience symptoms when exposed to mold, but anyone can react to exposure. If you or someone else in the household experience allergy symptoms or respiratory problems, it might indicate mold in your house. 

Mold Removal

Identify Source– Once you discover mold in your home, the next step is to determine where the mold is coming from, or more specifically, where the excess moisture is coming from, to allow mold to grow in that area. 

This could be any source of water that comes in contact with the surface and could include a leaky pipe, unsealed window or roofing, or even a higher humidity level. 

If the source of the excess moisture is not identified and resolved, there is a good chance the mold will return in the future, no matter how well you remove it in the present. 

Clean– Cleaning mold can be challenging and problematic if you don’t know what you are doing. Using the correct products and protective equipment when cleaning and removing mold is essential. The EPA recommends that any area larger than 10 square feet should be handled by professional remediation experts. 

Even if the area affected by mold is smaller than 10 square feet, it is still a good idea to get a consultation from a professional to ensure the problem is not more widespread than it appears. They can also offer advice on how to go about removing the mold and preventing it from returning.

When cleaning mold off of hard surfaces, it is best to scrub with a detergent that contains bleach and let it dry completely. 

Replace– Removing mold can be almost impossible if mold affects softer or more absorbent surfaces. Carpet and ceiling tiles are best replaced instead of attempting to clean and remove the mold. Before installing the new materials, ensure the mold has been eliminated from the materials underneath. 

You can’t just cover up mold in drywall with a new coat of paint. The entire sheet of drywall must be removed and replaced in many cases to ensure the mold will not return. 

Prevent Mold

Humidity Levels– One of the best ways to prevent mold from growing in your home is to ensure the humidity level stays below 60 percent. Depending on your climate, this can be difficult, but a dehumidifier or air conditioner can help. 

Clean spills– Even a small glass of spilled water can lead to mold if it is not cleaned up quickly and correctly. Often, water can find its way into the nooks and crannies of your home, which are also the perfect places for mold to grow. 

Dry flooding– The first 48 hours are the most important to prevent mold from growing after flooding has occurred in your home. Whenever possible, ensure all areas affected by flooding are dried completely as quickly as possible. 

This is especially important for carpeted areas. You must dry the carpet and the padding underneath completely to prevent mold and mildew from growing. 

Black Diamond Water Damage & Restoration

The experienced experts at Black Diamond Water Damage & Restoration are available 24/7 to safely get rid of mold in drywall or anywhere else in your home. 

Using proven best practices, Black Diamond will ensure the job is done right so that you and your family can stay safe and healthy and get your home back to normal as quickly as possible. Call now for a professional quote!

10 Items You Need In Your Home For Fire Safety

Our homes are the most important place to practice fire safety. Fire damage can lead to devastating situations for your loved ones and the integrity of your home. The best way to practice fire safety is to stay up to date on the preventative measures in your home.

To keep your home and family safe, here are ten items you need in your home for fire safety. 

  1. Smoke Alarms 

Smoke alarms are designed to detect more than the visible smoke that might come from a fire. They also detect combustion gases in the air that you might not notice otherwise. 

You should install smoke alarms on every level of your home, and it is vital to have the correct number of smoke alarms.  In the best case, you should place these alarms outside each sleeping area and in the kitchen.

You should test each smoke alarm monthly. This ensures the smoke alarms are working properly and the sound can be recognized by all who live in the home. Additionally, batteries should be replaced every year. 

Some older homes may require installing additional smoke detectors or making sure the alarms are wired together so that when one alarm goes off, all the smoke alarms follow. Check out this checklist from the Red Cross for more information. 

  1. Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Although carbon monoxide detectors may look similar to smoke alarms, they serve a different purpose. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas that can be released from gasoline-powered equipment and appliances such as a furnace, space heaters, gas stoves, and more. Because carbon monoxide is invisible and odorless, it can go undetected while causing health problems and other complications. 

Since carbon monoxide can diffuse throughout a room, CO detectors should be placed near sleeping areas on every level of your home.

 In the past, it has been recommended to install CO detectors lower to the ground. However, it is now suggested by the EPA that installation should be about five feet above the floor instead. 

Like smoke alarms, they should be tested monthly, and batteries should be replaced yearly. 

  1. Fire Extinguisher

Most home fires begin in the kitchen or the garage, which is why it is a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher in both locations of your home and follow these tips to prevent fires in the kitchen or cooking areas. 

However, before using a fire extinguisher, it is essential to call the fire department and evacuate everyone in the building.

When using a fire extinguisher, remember to use the PASS method:

  • P-Pull the pin
  • A-Aim the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire
  • S-Squeeze the trigger slowly and evenly 
  • S-Sweep the area from side to side to cover all the area the fire may have reached

It is important to remember that the fire extinguisher may expire and need to be inspected or replaced every ten years. 

  1. Flashlights

People use candles for a myriad of situations, particularly in power outages. While candles can be helpful in these instances, it is recommended that battery-powered flashlights or lanterns be used instead of candles in these instances.

There are even battery-powered candles that can be used instead. They can create the same aesthetic with far less risk and a longer lifespan. 

  1. Sealed containers for rags with flammable substances

Most people are aware of the flammable substances that they may have in their homes. But one overlooked part of fire safety is properly taking care of rags or tarps that may have come in contact with those flammable substances.

These items should be stored in airtight containers and stored away from any heat sources. If possible, use containers made of metal or non-plastic material.  

  1. Maintained Appliances

All appliances used in your home should include a tag that certifies independent testing, as well as a direct plug into an outlet wherever possible. Extension cords and power strips can be useful, but overloading any power source should be avoided whenever possible. 

There are many household appliances that should be professionally serviced and maintained, particularly dryers, furnaces, stoves, and other heating appliances. 

You should check any corded appliances regularly for wear and tear. If the cord is frayed, wires are exposed, or other damages can be seen, make sure to repair the item or discard it correctly. 

  1. Easily Readable house number

Fire safety also includes preparation for when the fire department may have to arrive on the scene of a fire. Having a house number that is easily visible and readable can save time for the fire department to respond to an emergency.

While a custom piece in an artistic font might look cute on the front of your house, if it can’t be read quickly and easily from the road, it might not be the best choice for the safety of your home and family. 

  1. Childproof locks for lighters, matches, etc.

Lighters and matches are necessary for various tasks, so it is common to find them inside your home. Make sure to keep these items out of reach of children, pets, or anyone who may not be able to use them responsibly using childproof devices or containers. 

  1. Quick-release devices on doors and windows 

Having security measures like locks, bars, or grates in place on your windows and doors can offer a sense of safety and protection. There are many options when it comes to these devices, so it’s important to know what to look for.

When selecting hardware, look for items that have a quick-release component. This ensures that the security measure can still prevent entrance through the window and door while allowing those inside to exit in the case of an emergency. 

  1. Family Emergency Plan

No fire safety list is complete without a family emergency plan. It is impossible to prepare for every situation, but having a comprehensive exit plan and a designated meeting place away from the house can help prepare everyone in the home for most problems. 

Be sure to go over the plan and practice with all members of the household at least once or twice a year. 

Black Diamond Restoration

Practicing fire safety in your home is essential, but there are times when bad things still happen, no matter how prepared you may be. In those circumstances, know that there are experts at Black Diamond Restoration who can repair, restore, or replace whatever has been damaged by fire. They are available anytime, 24/7, and have over twenty years of experience in Disaster Restoration. 

If you or someone you know has experienced fire damage or needs restoration after a disaster, contact Black Diamond Restoration today. 

10 Best Methods For Preventing Water Leaks In Your Home

A water leak may seem like it’s not that big of a deal, but it can easily cause irreparable damage to your home that will cost time and money to repair. Leaking water can ruin your property and destroy your belongings.

If not taken care of quickly and properly, water damage can also lead to mold growing in unexpected places throughout your home and causing health problems for you and your loved ones. Depending on the type of water leaking, your family’s safety could be in question. 

Greywater and Blackwater

Plumbing systems separate greywater from blackwater. Greywater is water that has been used by sinks, showers, washing machines, etc, and may include particles from washing dishes and clothes, bathing, and other kitchen appliances. 

Blackwater is water that is used in toilets and has come in contact with human waste. Both types of water used in plumbing require treatment before they can be safely used again. However, blackwater requires additional treatments to be safe to use. 

Most leaks inside the home leak greywater into the living space, but blackwater leaks also occur and require immediate attention. Knowing the sources of greywater and blackwater can be helpful in knowing how to prevent leaks and how to fix leaks quickly and effectively.

All of these complications can result from leaks that can be prevented with some forethought and regular maintenance. 

As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. While some of these tips may seem like a lot of work, it’s still a lot less work than cleaning up and restoring parts of your home after water damage has occurred from a leak that has gone unnoticed for a long period of time. 

Here are 10 ounce-sized methods to prevent water leaks in your home. 

  1. Check on all faucets and pipes

At least 1-2 times each year, take some time to check the pipes and faucets inside your home. This includes checking any water fixture and the connecting pipes.  Look to make sure the faucets are working properly and the pipes are secure.

One sneaky culprit for leaks is the space underneath sinks that are usually enclosed by cabinets or counters. This space is often used for storage as well, so the pipes can easily be overlooked, and leaks can go unnoticed. 

  1. Keep your roof in good shape and gutters clean

Plumbing leaks are not the only concern when it comes to preventing water damage to your home. Your roof is the first level of defense for your home from the outside elements. If it becomes damaged or worn over time, water can seep through and cause damage to the drywall and other parts of your home.

Make sure to keep your roof in good shape with regular maintenance. Replace shingles or other pieces as needed. 

As long as you are checking on your roof, it’s a good idea to also take a look at the gutters and downspouts that surround your home. It’s common for gutters to become clogged with leaves or other debris. When this happens, water can’t flow properly and can end up collecting and overflowing the sides. 

At least twice a year – usually spring and fall – clear the gutters of any leaves or debris that have collected there and ensure water flows properly through to the downspouts. It can also be helpful to double-check the area below the downspouts to ensure water flows away from the foundation of your home. 

  1. Caulking 

A quick preventative measure for leaks inside and outside of your home is to maintain proper sealing around windows, doors, and plumbing fixtures. 

Over time, it’s possible that windows move or settle differently and this can open up spaces around the windows. Don’t worry, this usually doesn’t mean you have to replace the entire window. Instead, apply caulk to the open space and let it dry. This will seal any opening and prevent water from entering where it isn’t wanted.

Similarly, there are times when fixtures like bathtubs, toilets, or sinks need to be resealed. Applying caulking can quickly fix these issues and make sure water doesn’t leak from the plumbing fixtures. 

  1. Hoses in winter

Before the weather turns cold, it is important to take care of any hoses attached to the outside of the house. The last thing you want in the middle of winter is pipes that have burst and flooded your home. 

Winterizing hoses means detaching them completely from the faucet, emptying the entire hose of water, and storing them in a place where they will not be covered in snow. 

  1. Water main

It is important to know where the main water shut-off valve is located for your home. If a leak is found, the first thing you should do is turn this main valve off to ensure there is no flooding or the water pressure in your system doesn’t change and cause more problems.

This valve controls the water flow into your house and is usually located on the perimeter of your home. However, it could be found inside instead, usually in a basement or storage space.

  1. Update plumbing

If you live in an older home, you will want to inspect the condition of the pipes. While copper pipes are better than some other materials, there is still a chance that the water can be contaminated with copper from those pipes. 

Houses built within the last 20 years probably do not have copper pipes, so if your house is older, make sure you test your water and consider replacing the copper pipes with newer, safer materials. 

  1. Yard maintenance

It might not seem to relate to water leaking into your home, but if the trees, bushes, grass, and soil are not maintained properly, you might encounter problems worse than cosmetic issues.

In general, the soil and landscape of around your home should allow for water to drain away from your house. When this is not the case, you risk a lot of issues from standing water like mosquitos and excessive water pooling around the foundation of the house.

  1. Water/leak detection devices

Installing leak detection devices can be time-consuming at first, but these contraptions allow you to easily identify leaks as soon as they start and where exactly they are coming from. 

  1. Water pressure

Changes in water pressure can be a sign that there is a leak or issues with your plumbing system. Be aware of any changes you may notice, and make sure there are no leaks in the plumbing system of your home. 

  1. Water bill

Monitor your water bill for any dramatic changes. If you haven’t recently made changes that would warrant an obvious increase in the amount of water your household uses, but your bill reflects a large increase in water usage, there is a good chance that there is a leak somewhere in or around your house. 

For professional help in a disaster, call Black Diamond 

If leaks and water damage do occur in your house, Black Diamond Water Damage & Restoration can quickly address the cause of the damage and make sure to get your home back to tip-top shape. The expert team of licensed professionals have years of experience in restoring property after any disaster. 

Black Diamond Water Damage & Restoration is available at any time, day or night, 24/7. If you or someone you know needs help with water damage to your property, contact us today!

Five Myths and Facts About Mold Effects On Your Health  

There are many misconceptions about the effects of mold on our health and well-being. The severity of mold effects on your health can vary, but any time mold is present in your home, office, or any building, it is essential to remove it as quickly and thoroughly as possible. 

It can be challenging to determine the truth or validity of claims made about mold. To help clear up confusion, here are five myths and facts about how mold can affect your health. 

All mold is toxic—myth

Mold may be unpleasant and cause many problems, but not all mold is toxic. Over 3000,000 different types of mold have been grouped into three general categories based on how the mold affects human health.

The most dangerous category is toxigenic. These species of mold release mycotoxins into the air, are microscopic, and can spread. Myco comes from the Greek word for fungi, and mycotoxins are toxic to all humans and animals. Not all toxogenic mold release mycotoxins, but it can be difficult to know which do and which don’t if you are not a professional. 

One specific species of toxigenic mold that does not release dangerous mycotoxins is Stachybotrys chartarum, more commonly known in the media as “black mold.” In reality, it is more of a dark greenish color than black and has not been proven to release mycotoxins or be any more dangerous than most other mold found in homes. 

The second category of mold is pathogenic, and pathogenic mold can cause infections in humans and animals. The severity of the infection can depend on the health of the person exposed and the amount they are exposed to. Even if you are in good health, you may develop a respiratory or pulmonary infection if exposed to a large amount of pathogenic or over a long period. 

Most mold falls in the category of allergenic. These are most commonly inhaled and can trigger symptoms similar to common airborne allergies. It can be difficult to determine whether that runny nose is caused by hayfever or an allergenic mold that has been overlooked in your home. Other symptoms may include headache, fatigue, and skin irritation.  

Everyone is exposed to mold spores—fact 

It’s true. Most people associate mold with darkness, dampness, and humidity. These are the standard conditions in which mold thrives, but mold spores can be found almost anywhere, even in dry, arid climates. 

Humans come into contact with mold spores all the time, but reactions to mold can vary greatly. Just because one person does not exhibit symptoms of mold exposure does not mean that mold is not present or negatively impacting others. Mold can have an even more dangerous impact on those with asthma or other respiratory illnesses. 

Even though mold can be found anywhere, that does not mean it should be ignored. If mold is found inside your home, it should always be professionally removed as quickly and thoroughly as possible to protect the health and safety of your household.

Anyone can remove mold—myth

Cleaning and removing small amounts of mold on your own may be possible using household cleaners. In doing so, it is always important to remember to wear gloves, a mask (N95 recommended), and protective eyewear. The problem with removing it on your own is that the mold will usually grow back and continue to spread. This is especially true with large amounts of mold.

Professional mold removal saves you time and energy and can ensure the mold does not return and you are not exposed to dangerous mold effects during the process. Experts like our team here at Black Diamond Water Damage and Restoration can eradicate mold quickly and effectively so you can get back to your life as quickly and safely as possible. If you are unsure what to do if you discover mold in your home, start with the EPA guide found here. 

Mold is more dangerous for immunocompromised individuals—fact

You are more likely to experience mold effects on your health if you have underlying conditions. Those with respiratory illnesses such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, or sarcoidosis are more susceptible to mold effects and are more likely to develop severe symptoms or infections. 

Any person with a compromised immune system or who is taking immunosuppressants is at greater risk when it comes to mold exposure. 

Many preventative measures can be taken to protect yourself and your loved ones from negative mold effects on your health. 

  • Keep your home well ventilated and maintain around 50% humidity using dehumidifiers or air conditioners.
  • Clean up all spills and excess water immediately.
  • Repair or replace leaks, including windows that may occasionally leak or sweat
  • Use construction materials that are mold inhibitors.

Mold damage is always visible—myth

There are some visible signs of mold that can be recognized. Warping, cracking, peeling, or expanding materials can be a sign of mold, even if you don’t see mold growing on the outside. If mold is visible, it is usually dark but can appear in different colors. It often looks fuzzy or powdery. 

But mold often may not be seen before it becomes a problem. A distinct smell usually accompanies mold. If you discover a musty, earthy smell in a part of your home, there is a good chance that there is mold present. 

Black Diamond Restoration Will Detect and Remove Mold

When it comes to mold, you can never be too cautious. If you suspect mold is present in your home, call Black Diamond Water Damage and Restoration today for a consultation and quote. 

Professional mold removal saves you time and energy and can ensure the mold does not return and you are not exposed to dangerous mold effects during the process. Experts like our team here at Black Diamond Water Damage and Restoration can eradicate mold quickly and effectively so you can get back to your life as quickly and safely as possible. If you are unsure what to do if you discover mold in your home, start with the EPA guide found here. 

Black Diamond Water Damage and Restoration can detect and remove mold safely and effectively. They offer licensed, certified professionals to help you any time of the day or night. If you want it done right, make sure you call Black Diamond Water Damage and Restoration.

Here’s What Happens If Water Damage Goes Untreated

Water damage is a dreaded concept for homeowners and landlords alike. It’s hazardous since the evidence is often hiding in the ceilings, walls, or floors of your home, only becoming visible when it’s become an enormous problem. It’s an issue that needs to be dealt with right away – as soon as there are signs of damage. 

What are the signs of water damage? And what happens if water damage goes untreated? That’s what we’re discussing in today’s blog. Keep reading to learn more!

Signs of Water Damage

Knowing what damage looks like is the first step to treating it. If you don’t know what it looks like, how are you supposed to recognize and treat it? Signs of water damage include:

  • Wet spots you can see.
  • Abnormal color streaks on your wall.
  • Cracked walls.
  • Bubbling paint.
  • Soft walls.
  • Running water inside your walls.
  • Musty or damp smell.
  • Leaks.
  • Visible mold.
  • Higher water bills.

We’ve also discussed where to look for water damage, so you can proactively protect your home. 

But there are situations where the water damage isn’t your fault. Say you move into an apartment and, two weeks later, you realize there’s untreated damage that needs immediate treatment. In that case, your best bet is to contact your apartment complex management and express how urgent you believe the problem is.

But what if they need convincing to come to check out the problem? 

This section covers what happens when water damage goes untreated and why everyone should take it seriously. 

Effects of Untreated Water Damage

Simply put, untreated water damage is expensive. It results in all kinds of damage requiring money to fix. It’s money coming out of your wallet from corroded pipes to damaged ceilings to a ruined electrical system. Not only that but even after fixing it, having had water damage will lower your home’s value. Let’s take a deeper look. 

Your Home’s Value

Water damage is evident once it gets bad enough. Even if the problem has been resolved, you can still see the evidence on your walls. You can try painting over it, but water damage isn’t easy to hide behind a new coat of color. 

An inspector will be able to spot water damage from a mile away and will make a note of it in their report, resulting in lower offers on your home or even no offers at all when it comes time to sell it. 

Immediately treating water damage will prevent your home’s value from being diminished. 

Higher Water Bills

A telltale sign that you have water damage is if your water bill gets higher when you aren’t using higher amounts of water. That means water is coming from somewhere. This is an excellent time to look for signs of water damage in your home. 

Corroded Pipes

Corroded pipes mean that your pipes are getting rusted from water flowing through them. Now, pipes will naturally corrode over time, so you must replace them every so often to ensure clean drinking water. But water damage will push up that replacement timeline as the corrosion process occurs much more quickly when there’s damage. 

What would happen if you left a corroded pipe alone? The damage will worsen, causing even more water to leak out, ultimately resulting in the pipes bursting – which is another disaster all on its own! 

Damaged Ceilings

Water doesn’t have any limitations on where it could go. It could be in the ceiling, for all you know. So, when checking for water damage, don’t forget to look up! If your ceiling shows signs of buckling, bowing, or sagging, as if it’s under pressure, this is a sign of water damage. 

You should also look for brown, black, and green patches on your ceiling. Even if the ceiling looks fine, those colors indicate water damage hiding on the other side. 

Your ceiling could burst from water damage, whether there’s a hole in your ceiling or it altogether collapses. 

Holes in Your Concrete

Did you know that dripping water is powerful enough to put a hole in your concrete? It’s true, and it gets even worse. It can erode your foundation, affecting your home’s very foundation. It’s not something you want to leave untreated! 

A Ruined Electrical System

We were taught as young children to avoid mixing water and electricity, and that hasn’t changed! Water damage spreads. Those little drips turn into huge puddles that travel. Nothing is off-limits, which means the damage can be catastrophic. 

Electrical shorts and damaged circuits are two common problems that result from water damage. And that’s pretty scary since both are serious fire hazards! 

Ruined Carpet

Different types of flooring will have different responses to water damage. As for the carpet, water damage will break it down. First, the carpet will get ruined, but the padding and subfloor underneath the carpet will also suffer the longer it goes untreated. It won’t happen overnight, but you’ll end up with a warped floor.

Weak Floors

The type of floor you have will determine how bad the damage is. Wood floors, for example, will absorb water quickly, dangerously compromising the very structure of your home. No matter the type of flooring you have, the long-term effects of the damage will be the same.

Black Diamond Restoration

Are you worried about water damage in your home? Being proactive is the best way to protect your home, whether you live in an apartment, own your house, or are a landlord. 

So, what should you do when you spot water damage? Call Black Diamond Restoration! We have decades of experience treating water and mold damage and are experts at restoring, repairing, and replacing damage in your home. 

Our services extend to all types of home damage, so we’ve got all your bases covered, whether it be for water, fire, mold, sewage, storm, or biohazard cleanup. We’re located in Murray and service Salt Lake and Utah counties. 

Ready to protect your home from water damage? Contact us today to get started.

Long-Term Power Outage Tips To Include In Your Emergency Preparedness Plan

A long-term power outage can change the game in an emergency. While many emergencies only require evacuation, and you can quickly return to your home, long-term power outages come with extra steps. 

Not only does a power outage leave you in darkness, but it puts a lot of stuff at risk. Without power, the food in your refrigerator can spoil. Refrigerated medications might need replacement. And electronic devices that rely on battery power need to be conserved so they last as long as possible. 

We’ve already talked about emergency preparedness plans; today, we’re discussing how a long-term power outage can affect that plan and how you can plan accordingly. Keep reading to learn how to respond during a long-term power outage. 

Prepare for a Long-Term Power Outage

It’s easier to know how to respond during a power outage if you’re already prepared for one. Thinking about what you would do – and what you would need in order to do those things – will help you prepare for a power outage, even if you don’t experience one. Simply put, preparation is everything when it comes to handling an emergency. 

So, how do you prepare?

Let’s break it down by category.

Food

We need basic sustenance to survive, and food is a significant part of that. But if the power goes out, your food is at risk. And if the power is out for days, you’ll need a backup plan to stay nourished. 

If the power outage is part of a natural disaster, you likely won’t be the only one struggling. But if the outage is just in your neighborhood overnight, it’s not as big of a deal. 

To keep your body nourished, we recommend keeping non-perishable foods on hand for emergencies. Canned beans, vegetables, fruit packed in fruit juice, cereal, peanut butter, nuts, crackers, snack bars, and shelf-stable milk are staples to start with. You’ll also want a manual can opener to open canned foods.

You can make yummy meals with these shelf-stable foods, too. Overnight oats, gazpacho, tuna sandwiches, or even bean salad can keep you feeling satisfied, even without power. 

Having those shelf-stable foods on hand will prevent you from needing to open the fridge door prematurely. The longer the fridge stays shut, the longer the food will stay fresh. 

How long will food stay fresh? 

That depends on what it is.

Foods like bread, butter, fruit, veggies, jam, and hard cheeses won’t turn right away. So don’t toss those apples or avocados. But you will need to toss fresh foods like meat and dairy products if they’re left unrefrigerated for 4 hours, or their internal temperature rises to 40 degrees or above. 

As for freezer foods, they’ll last a bit longer. If your fridge is packed full, you’re safe for up to 48 hours. A half-full fridge is good for 24 hours. If you want to make it last longer, fill up some containers with water and place them in the freezer. Once frozen solid, they’ll keep your food fresh for longer. 

Medications

Depending on your health condition, you might need refrigerated medications that you\ must replace if they are exposed to room temperature for too long. If it’s a medicine you can go without for a day or two, you might not be too worried about it. But if the medication is essential and must be taken every day, you’ll want to have a backup plan.

Our first recommendation is to talk to your healthcare provider about your medication and alternate ways you can store it. They might have great suggestions you haven’t thought of. Chances are you won’t be the first person to ask them, so they’ll have had some time to consider it over the years. 

Our second recommendation is to ask for a backup prescription. Call your doctor; tell them your power went out and you’re concerned about your medication. Your provider will likely send a new prescription to your pharmacy so that you can take your medicine when you need it.

It’s unfortunate if the medicine is spoiled, especially if you have a high copay. So you might consider getting a freezer chest and filling it up with ice to help your medication stay good for as long as possible. But this is only a temporary solution, and ultimately, it’s not worth risking it and getting sick. 

Generators & Appliances

If you have a generator, we recommend using it, as this can restore power to your appliances and keep food and medicine fresh for longer. Just keep the generator at least 20 feet away from your home. Why? Because generators emit carbon monoxide fumes, which are invisible and odorless and can kill you in minutes.

If you don’t have a generator, we recommend unplugging all your appliances. There can be surges or sparks of electricity when there’s a power outage as power is restored, whether only for a moment or for good. 

Those surges can damage or destroy your appliances. So, while it might make the most sense to keep your appliances plugged in, it’s much better to unplug them so they won’t need repair or replacement. 

Black Diamond Restoration

Unfortunately, power outages strike, with some lasting for days due to local or national disasters. Following the advice in this blog will undoubtedly help you cope with a long-term power outage, but there’s no guarantee that your home will remain unfazed by a disaster.

If you find yourself displaced or unable to comfortably live in your home due to damage, rest assured you’re in good hands. Black Diamond Restoration is highly experienced in repairing and restoring homes from water, fire, mold, sewer, storm, and biohazard damage. If that’s what you’re dealing with, we can help! 

Black Diamond Restoration is located in Murray, Utah, and services the greater Salt Lake and Utah counties areas. You can reach us at 801.512.4194 or visit our website to learn more about us. We’re here for you! 

Minimizing Wind Damage in a Thunderstorm

Wind damage from a thunderstorm can wreak havoc on your home. Wind gusts can cause entire trees to collapse on your home or break glass windows. The damage can devastate your home and be costly to repair. 

That’s why it’s essential to take preventative measures to protect yourself, your family, and your home from wind damage. Of course, you can’t prevent a storm from coming, but you can do your part to minimize its impact.

In today’s blog, we’re discussing how to minimize wind damage in a thunderstorm. There are steps you can take before and after a storm. Let’s dive in!

Proactive Protection for When It’s Not Storming

Did you know you can take steps to help protect your home and property from wind damage? However, you need to take these steps when a storm isn’t about to blow in. If a storm is on its way, please save these steps for another time. We don’t want you getting hurt!

Take Care of Your Trees

Has a tree or branch landed on your roof? This is highly dangerous, so you should evacuate your home. We highly recommend calling your local fire department. They’ll assess the damage and tell you if it’s safe to return to your home. You might need to stay somewhere else until a contractor repairs your home.

Tree branches are known for breaking off and damaging property. But did you know that maintaining your trees can prevent that from happening? Simple, regular maintenance can save you from catastrophic damage during a storm.

The key is to prevent trees from decaying. Decay severely weakens the trunks and limbs of trees, making it easier for the wind to uproot them and send them flying–quite literally. 

The best ways to prevent decay are by mowing carefully around trees so that you don’t cut right into the trunk, not pruning too much, and not over-watering. It’s a common belief that trees can’t get enough water—this is untrue. Over-watering your trees can leave them with shallow root systems, which will weaken their defense against heavy winds. 

Take Care of Your Roof

This step requires a ladder and getting on your roof; you should avoid doing this right before a storm. Once you’re on your roof, you’ll want to check your shingles. Do any shingles look loose? Are there any missing shingles? It’s also a good idea to make sure your flashings are in place. 

Taking care of your trees and roof will give you peace of mind during a storm. Of course, there’s no way to protect your home or property from wind damage completely, but these steps greatly minimize how bad the damage can be. Because, trust us, you don’t want a tree branch crashing on your roof.

Right Before the Storm

If there’s going to be a thunderstorm with severe wind gusts, you’ll likely get a notification/warning on your phone. Some storms come out of nowhere, but meteorologists can often predict storms several days in advance. This is when you’ll want to take action. Waiting until after the storm could cause unnecessary damage. 

These steps are easy to take and don’t require much time or planning, so they can be done if you don’t have much warning that a storm is coming.

So, what exactly should you do?

Protect Your Vehicles

First, protect your vehicles. If you have a garage, pull your car in. If you don’t have a garage, find a covered parking space or park your vehicle away from large objects that could crash on it during the storm. It’s also a good idea to protect your windshields and windows with a tarp. 

There’s no guarantee that your car won’t suffer some damage, but taking these measures will minimize that damage. 

Secure Outdoor Property

Do you have a grill? What about patio furniture or trash cans? These are all unsecured objects that could cause damage or get damaged by the wind. The best solution is to secure them by tying them down or bringing them inside, away from the wind. 

After the Storm

Some wind damage can’t is inevitable, even when you’re super careful, so assessing damage after the storm is over is important. 

Be sure to wait until the storm has passed, though. It can be tempting to look while it’s still raining outside, but this is dangerous. There could still be lightning strikes or heavy winds that could injure you. 

Power Lines

It’s a good idea to watch your steps carefully when you step outside because there might be down power lines that could electrocute you. If you see a downed power line, you should stay far away and call your utility company right away.

Not only should you not touch those power lines, but you should stay far away from them. It would be best if you didn’t even touch nearby objects. They could carry an electric charge that could shock you. 

Shingles

Check your roof for cracked, peeling, or missing shingles when it’s safe to do so. It would help if you also looked for water damage that could leak into your attic and cause mold problems.

Black Diamond Restoration

Did your home suffer wind damage from heavy winds in a recent thunderstorm? Contact Black Diamond Restoration today. We’re skilled in many areas, including storm damage. Our storm damage experts can assess smoke and primary and secondary storm damage. With their skills and experience, they’ll restore your home to pre-loss condition. 

Not only do we have the experts you need to get back to everyday life, but we understand the urgency of your situation. You want to get back into your home as quickly as possible! Our storm damage experts will work hard to get you home. 

Have questions? Need help getting started on repairs? Please don’t hesitate to contact us today. Black Diamond Restoration is located in Murray, Utah, and services the greater Salt Lake City area.

Health Effects of Mold

We all know mold is bad when it gets indoors, but what are the health effects of mold? Mold is an integral part of the ecosystem when it’s outside where it belongs. It helps break down dead leaves, plants, and trees. If you’re out hiking in the woods, you’ll be exposed to mold, but it probably won’t make you sick. 

It’s when mold makes its way indoors that health concerns arise. It can be hard to keep mold out of your home since it thrives in habitats that our homes naturally foster. That’s why it’s so important to keep our homes free from damp, dark places where mold can thrive.

So, how does mold affect us? We’re answering those questions in today’s blog.

Allergies

Everyone is different. Some people don’t have any allergies, while others require medications to keep their allergies under control. So, for some people, mold could grow in your home for months without you noticing anything. 

That’s not to say that you’ll never experience symptoms, though. Even if you don’t have allergies, exposure to mold for extended periods can still make you sick. 

But if you have moderate to severe allergies, mold growth can cause illness right away from aggravating the symptoms you’re already experiencing. 

Asthma 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued warnings concerning mold for individuals with asthma. At its best, you could wind up with a stuffy nose, wheezing or coughing, or having red, itchy eyes. You could contract a fever or feel short of breath at its worst. 

Mold exposure has also been linked to asthma development in young children. 

Upper Respiratory Illnesses

No one wants any kind of upper respiratory infection. You can feel awful for days and have a cough that lingers for weeks or even months. But unfortunately, indoor mold is related to upper respiratory illnesses, including hypersensitivity pneumonitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).

Immuno-compromised Individuals

Do you have a weaker immune system? Conditions like cancer or liver disease can compromise your immune system; so can undergoing chemotherapy treatment. Being immuno-compromised can intensify the mold symptoms you experience.

Treating and Preventing Mold

The health effects of mold can seem scary, especially if you have one of the aforementioned conditions. If you notice yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, you should talk to your healthcare provider. 

You can do your part to prevent mold from growing in your home. Mold thrives in damp, dark places. Everyday places like your shower, kitchen sink, and windowsills can all be sources of mold. That’s why it’s essential to keep those areas clean. Doing your best to keep mold out will help you stay healthy. 

Black Diamond Restoration

Do you suspect that mold is growing in your home? What if you’re unaware that mold has been growing? Suddenly finding mold in your home can be a shocking experience. And if you’re worried about the health effects of mold, you’ll want to get it taken care of right away. 

That’s what Black Diamond Restoration is here for; we treat mold damage every day. Not only do we treat it, but we take steps to keep it away. We’ll also teach you how to prevent it from coming back. We want you to live a healthy life! Contact us today to get started. 

Where to Look For Mold in Your Home

If you suspect mold in your home, it’s essential to act quickly. Mold is very bad for you when it grows indoors. It can cause health problems or exacerbate pre-existing conditions. Knowing where to look for mold in your home is the first step to mitigating it and stopping its growth. But if you’re unfamiliar with mold, it might be hard to know where to look for it. These are the most common places where you’ll find it.

The Bathroom

Shower and Bathtub

Mold thrives in warm, wet places. Your shower is the perfect example. Do you like to stand under hot water? While it feels great on your skin, it’s a breeding ground for mold. This is especially true if your bathroom lacks ventilation.

We recommend checking your shower, bathtub, sink, toilet, walls, and floor. These are all common places where you might find mold in your home.

The Kitchen

Kitchen Sink

We recommend checking in, on, and under your kitchen sink. Your kitchen sink is home to dirty dishes, uneaten food, wet sponges, and your garbage disposal. Under the sink, you have to worry about mold coming from your pipes, especially if there’s a leak.

Refrigerator and Pantry

Do you suspect mold in your fridge or pantry? Your first thought might be moldy leftovers in the fridge, but while that’s possible, it’s not the only place mold can grow. Remember to check your drip trays and water dispenser, too. You don’t want mold growing anywhere near the water you drink!

Microwave and Stove

It’s easy for mold to grow in your microwave or stove if you don’t regularly clean it. Why? Because spilled food and grease that’s left sitting will eventually mold. You don’t want to cook food where there’s mold, as that can also make you sick.

Living Room

Windows and HVAC

Windowsills are subject to humidity because they collect condensation. If left alone, they’ll grow mold. The same goes for air conditioners and heating vents, so regularly checking the vents is essential.

Couches and Curtains

Mold spores are often found on fabric or upholstery. Spilling water on your couch and not cleaning it right away can easily lead to mold growth. If your couch smells musty, look for mold.

Fireplace and Chimney

It’s very easy for mold to grow in your fireplace or chimney because both are cool, damp, and dark. And that’s where mold thrives best.

Attic and Basement

Attic

Your attic might hold your storage, but it could also be hosting mold. Attics frequently have ventilation systems that control the whole house. So, mold that collects in those attic vents can be spread through the entire house when you turn your heat or air on.

Basement

If you don’t go to your basement often, you might not think to check for mold there. But mold left untreated will spread and grow. Watch for leaks, excessive moisture, and condensation around those pipes.

Black Diamond Restoration

Black Diamond Restoration has served the greater Salt Lake City area for the past 20 years. We specialize in mitigating, removing, and restoring areas in your home that have been infected with mold. We are experts in our field. We will find it, treat it, and prevent it from growing back if there’s mold. We’ll also teach you ways you can prevent mold growth. Think you’ve spotted mold in your home? Contact us today!

About us

Black Diamond Water Damage and Disaster Restoration is ready to serve all your restoration needs, 24/7. Based out of Murray, Utah, we proudly serve Salt Lake City and surrounding areas. Our licensed and certified professionals will help you through the restoration process, restoring your home or commercial space to exacting standards. With over twenty years of Disaster Restoration experience, we do it all, and we do it right!
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