Does bleach kill mold?

For the majority of surfaces in your home, bleach won't actually get rid of your mold problem. It's the "iceberg effect. " Visible mold is usually a small percentage of the actual amount of mold growth. Bleach can't kill mold on porous surfaces like wood, and while tile or fiberglass surfaces can be cleaned with bleach, often the mold has spread far deeper. The reason why mold remediation companies don't recommend DIY cleanup isn't that they want to make more money; they know, in their experience, that a mold problem is usually far more invasive than can be seen with the naked eye. Simply cleaning the surfaces can provide false assurances that you got rid of the mold, only to have it come back time and time again.

Does homeowner's insurance cover water damage?

Most homeowner's policies cover most water damages, but not all water damages are created equal. There can be a lot of exceptions to coverage depending on the intricacies of your policy. This is why it's a good idea to be familiar with your policy and call your agent right away when damage occurs.

Does homeowners insurance cover mold remediation?

Sometimes mold remediation is included if the cause of the mold was a "covered peril" like a burst hot water heater or water damage caused by firefighters extinguishing a fire in your house. Gradual water damage - like from a leaking pipe or hose - will often cause mold growth, but your insurance coverage will usually not cover that by claiming that it was caused by poor maintenance or neglect. If your insurance company denies your claim, you should request an inspection from a mold remediation company that can help you document the source of the mold.

How can I prevent water damage?

A good portion of water damage can be prevented by proper household maintenance. Routine plumbing maintenance, as well as sump pump and appliance maintenance, are effective ways to avoid preventable damages. If you live in a cold climate, preparing your home for the winter can also help avoid damage. Finally, it's a good idea to regularly check the exterior of your home, particularly your roof, for damage to ensure water isn't unexpectedly leaking into your home.

How cold does it have to get to cause pipes to freeze?

Temperatures 20° Fahrenheit or less, sustained for 3 days or more, are likely to cause frozen pipes. If the weather is also windy, any temperature below 32° Fahrenheit can also create a frozen pipe situation.

How do I clean up soot?

DIY soot removal is not recommended. Commercially available products can actually cause permanent damage to surfaces. Soot itself is primarily oil-based, but that residue also contains toxic, possibly biohazard contaminants.

How do I know for sure what caused the water damage to my property?

Identifying the source of the water damage is one of the first steps in both the insurance claim process and before beginning to dry out and repair the damaged areas. After all, if you replace a sagging, wet ceiling that was caused by a roof leak but don't fix the roof, too, the next rainstorm will start the cycle all over again. The buckling to your hardwood floor could be caused by a leaking pipe. We will pinpoint the exact cause of your water damage and make sure the source is repaired. We make sure your restoration job is done right the first time.

How do I know if the mold is gone for good?

If the inspection/assessment process was able to pinpoint the source and cause of the mold growth, once that source is repaired, you can be relatively confident about the success of remediation. Ask if your restoration technician has the IICRC certification for "Applied Microbial Remediation. " You can also request a "post-remediation mold clearance" from a third-party mold inspector to re-test the area for any remaining traces of mold before the area is treated with a sealer or encapsulant to resist future mold growth.

How long does fire damage restoration take?

It's never a quick fix, though we've gathered together a multi-discipline team of contractors and disaster restoration technicians to work in tandem to complete the work as soon as possible. From structural repairs to sand/soda-blasting to odor removal to contents cleaning, our fire damage restoration crew begins as soon as the project scope is determined, and we don't stop until the job is done and both you and the insurance company are satisfied with the results.

How long will it take to dry out my property?

That depends on the types of materials that were affected by water. Drywall, carpet, and hardwood floors will take longer to dry than other materials in the space. We use moisture meters throughout the process and in many different locations to gauge the moisture levels and will continue to adjust our fans and dehumidifiers to achieve an efficient but effective dry time. The bare minimum of "three days to dry" may only produce a surface dry, but can still leave behind moisture levels that create an ideal environment for mold to grow.

From Panic to Peace of Mind: The Customer Journey in Restoration Services

Posted by: RestoreMore Inc on July 15, 2025

Have you ever found your living room drenched due to a burst pipe or your kitchen charred from a kitchen fire? In these moments of chaos, stress levels skyrocket, and panic often takes center stage. However, knowing there are experts ready to restore your home and peace of mind can make all the difference.

Water, fire, and mold damage are not just about the visible destruction. It's about the emotional and psychological toll that such incidents impose on individuals and families. Understanding this, damage restoration companies in Milwaukee focus not only on repairing physical damage but also on providing emotional support and clear communication throughout the restoration process. This dual approach ensures that clients feel informed, valued, and supported from the beginning to the end of their restoration journey.

In this blog, we'll delve into the critical stages of customer interaction with restoration services, offering insights into how companies like RestoreMore aim to transform havoc into harmony. Whether you're facing a small leak or a major fire disaster, knowing the process and what to expect can help you make informed decisions and regain control.

Understanding the First Response

The Importance of Quick Action

In the aftermath of water or fire damage, the initial response plays a crucial role in determining the extent of restoration required. For instance, did you know that mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours after water exposure? Rapid intervention is critical not only for mitigating physical damage but also for minimizing restoration costs.

When disaster strikes, companies like RestoreMore offer immediate assistance, understanding that each minute counts. From a burst pipe in the basement to unexpected fire damage, a timely response helps contain the situation, preventing secondary damage and reducing overall restoration time and cost.

Assessment and Planning

Conducting a Thorough Assessment

Once immediate actions are taken, the next step is a detailed assessment of the damage. Professionals evaluate the extent of damage to structures, belongings, and potentially affected areas not visible to the naked eye. Utilizing tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras, companies like RestoreMore can accurately gauge the situation, identify risks, and formulate a tailored restoration plan.

Having a comprehensive plan not only ensures effective restoration but also provides clients with a clear understanding of the process ahead, fostering transparency and trust.

Crafting a Personalized Restoration Plan

Every restoration project is unique. The plan must consider various factors, including the type of water (clean, gray, or black), the extent of fire damage, and the level of mold infiltration. RestoreMore’s approach often involves creating a plan that prioritizes client needs, balancing quick restoration with quality and budget considerations.

Restoration Efforts: From Cleanup to Rebuilding

The Cleanup Phase

Cleanup is an intensive phase of the restoration process. Depending on the type of damage, it can range from simple debris removal to complex decontamination efforts. After a fire, soot and smoke residue must be meticulously cleaned to prevent lingering odors and health issues. You may also consult RestoreMore’s expert fire and smoke damage restoration services in Milwaukee. Similarly, in water damage cases, removing moisture promptly is vital to prevent mold growth.

Key tasks during this phase include:

Water Extraction & Drying : Using high-powered pumps and air movers.
Debris Removal : Safe disposal of non-salvageable items.
Cleaning & Sanitization : Utilizing antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold.

The Rebuilding Stage

Once the cleanup is complete, the restoration phase focuses on returning the property to its pre-loss condition. This could involve repairing structural damage, replacing drywall, painting, and more. With companies like RestoreMore, the focus remains on quality workmanship and adherence to safety standards, ensuring that rebuilt spaces are as good as new-or even better.

Customer Support and Communication

Maintaining Open Lines of Communication

Throughout the restoration journey, maintaining open and clear communication is essential. It's about keeping the client informed at every step-from the initial assessment to the final walkthrough. Restoration firms prioritize frequent updates to reduce client anxiety and establish confidence in the restoration process.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Restoration services extend beyond the physical reconstruction of properties; they also cater to the emotional well-being of clients. By providing transparent communication and offering reassurances, companies like RestoreMore help clients transition smoothly from a state of panic to peace of mind.

Managing Restoration Costs

Budget-Friendly Restoration Tips

Restoration can be expensive, but strategic approaches can help control costs:

Prioritize Critical Repairs : Focus on immediate issues that can prevent further damage.
Seek Professional Advice : Consult experts who can offer insights into insurance claims and policy coverage.
Consider Long-term Benefits : Opt for high-quality materials that may have higher initial costs but offer durability and resilience against future incidents.

Smart cost management ensures that quality doesn't suffer while budget constraints are respected. Companies like RestoreMore often work closely with clients to accommodate their financial situation, offering transparent pricing and flexible payment options.

From Chaos to Comfort: RestoreMore is Your Partner in Recovery

Navigating the aftermath of water, fire, or mold damage is undoubtedly challenging. However, with the right restoration partner, the transition from panic to peace of mind becomes achievable. At RestoreMore, we prioritize customer satisfaction, combining expert restoration techniques with compassionate customer service to rebuild not just homes but also confidence and calm.

For more insights, services, or support, explore RestoreMore’s comprehensive restoration solutions. Whether you're facing damage or want to prepare for the unexpected, our team is here to help. Contact us today.