Today is Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Water Damage Articles & FAQs

Articles and frequently asked questions about water damage.


Water Alarm Review: Gizmode 9Volt Water Alarm, 110dB

We got our hands on the Original Water Alarm – WA01 – by Gizmode Innovations and put it through some rigorous testing. This water alarm is very loud and can be heard in basements, cabinets, or other remote places that are susceptible to moisture or leaks. This handy device screams at 110+ dB. It is very sensitive and therefore a perfect option for basements that have potential moisture problems. This alarm comes with a 1 year warranty, has a long battery life (chirps when battery runs low), and the easiest to use.

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We tested it first by setting it in a dish of water just to make sure it worked. It sure did… boy was it loud. Then as soon as we pulled it out of the water, the loud water alarm stopped. To test the sensitivity, we placed the alarm on a dry piece of paper. At one end of the paper, we placed a damp sponge dipped in blue food coloring. We were able to watch the paper absorb the blue water and how it traveled toward the alarm. This process took a while and was done this way to simulate a slow moisture build-up. As soon as the blue water reached the sensor – maybe a whisker shy – it started screeching.

Chicago experienced a sudden drop in temperature recently which was a perfect time to test for condensation. This drop in temperature also dried the air significantly so the humidifier kicked on to add moisture to the air. We set the water alarm on the concrete floor and checked the humidity each day. We kept the property at a constant 74 degrees and gradually raised the humidity. The alarm was triggered when the humidity reached 68%. It felt a bit muggy, but not wet. Even the concrete floor did not feel wet. But when we picked it up, it turned off. So, not only is this little alarm good for detection obvious moisture, small leaks and full blown water infiltration, it is a warning device for mold.

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Water Alarm – A small investment

For under $30 you get piece of mind knowing that you have a chance to save your home from potential disaster. Whether it’s a small plumbing leak that slowly decays your home, basement flooding, or high humidity, you’ll be alerted so you can take action. Available at Amazon.com

Water Damage Consulting Division

Flood Specialists, Inc. is proud to announce a new water damage consulting division giving you the option to have a mitigation specialist consult on your mold, biohazard, fire, flood and disaster projects, on the use of drying equipment and/or drying methodology. Our technicians are certified and trained in the use of all equipment and cleaning methods.

Whether you are on a do-it-yourself mission or a plumber, electrician, general contractors or other trade and have run into a problem that you would prefer to handle yourself, with the help of our consultants, of course. We can offer suggestions, equipment rental options, supplies, delivery, placement and instructions on using the equipment. You do the labor and cleanup meanwhile inheriting a new trade knowledge.

We recognize that the best way to bring back rental customers is to teach product knowledge. If you are hesitant about purchasing that big-ticket item, like a dry ice or soda blaster; rent and learn how to use the machinery prior to purchase, so you can decide what options are necessary for your type of use and intent. Our water damage consulting division staff will walk you through the pros and cons of the different mediums and offer our expert recommendations.

Sometimes buying a piece of equipment is not worth purchasing for just a few uses a year. Renting is sometimes the better cost-effective option. We clean and maintain our equipment regularly, something you don’t have to worry about. However, if you are flirting with the possibility of growing your business to include blasting, mold, fire, water damage restoration. Learn and rent the tools of the trade.

Why Use Our Water Damage Consulting Division?

Many businesses have used our water damage consulting division as “training wheels” before they take off running with new technology. When workshops and seminars are inconvenient for the crisis at hand, utilize our consultation services. We have 20 years experience in the business and are only happy to help. You can call our toll-free number 1-888-502-5699 for 24 hour access to the tools and equipment needed for disaster relief.

Water Damage Equipment – Rent, Test & Learn

Flood Specialists, Inc. has a fleet of great and meticulously maintained and cared for water damage equipment. Why do specialty trades and weekend warriors need to buy equipment for rare use occasions? No longer for just ‘friends of the trade’; we have the equipment and knowledge at hand for the public’s convenience.

Flood Specialists, Inc. is proud to announce a new equipment rental division giving you the option to rent restoration equipment. We have specialty equipment geared for fire and flood clean up that you cannot find at your normal rental houses. We offer equipment, delivery, placement and consultations. Our technicians are certified and trained in the use of all equipment and cleaning methods.

We have medium blasting equipment that includes dry ice and soda blasting. Whereas dry ice blasting is a relative new technology, the results are phenomenal and applications are endless. It can remove fire or smoke damage, eliminate mold, remove efflorescence from masonry, and restore old brick pavers. It is a non-abrasive and non-flammable cleaning method. Pressurized air is used to create mini explosions of frozen carbon dioxide (the gas we exhale) on the surface lifting dirt, oil, and debris. When dry ice melts it just turns into a gas and there is no secondary cleanup of the blasting medium. It truly is a more cost-effective way to clean, as it cuts down on cleaning time and labor hours.

Some people prefer the odor absorbing method of baking soda blasting. Imagine that little yellow box removing smoke and fire odors from a home. There is nothing more effective. Soda blasting is so effective it was used to restore the Statue of Liberty in the 1980s. Baking soda is so safe we use it to brush our teeth! It is perfect for cleaning in the food service industry.

Remediation, reconstruction professionals and the do-it-yourselfer turn to Flood Specialists, Inc. for their tool and equipment rental needs. Our extensive fleet of equipment includes air movers, negative air machines, dehumidifiers, extractors, blowers, axial fans and the supplies you need are all available for rent. We also have a limited supply of used equipment for sale. You can call our toll-free number 1-888-502-5699 for 24 hour access to the tools and equipment needed for disaster relief.



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