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.

Restoration Techniques Revolution: Are Traditional Methods Still Relevant in Today's Market?

Posted by: RestoreMore on May 15, 2025

Innovations in technology have transformed many industries, but when it comes to the restoration of homes and properties after damage, are traditional methods still holding their ground? This question echoes the uncertainties faced by homeowners witnessing the tangible scars left by water, fire, and mold damage. As leaders in the restoration sector, firms like RestoreMore are at the crossroads of embracing cutting-edge technologies while respecting tried-and-true techniques. This balance is crucial, not only to maintain market leadership but also to offer services that are both effective and accessible.

Restoration is crucial in returning properties to their pre-damage state. The industry is continuously evolving, with advancements aiming to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance outcomes. This blog seeks to explore whether traditional methods still maintain their relevance or if modern techniques are reshaping the industry's landscape. By examining both perspectives, this article will arm property owners with insights enabling them to make informed decisions about restoring their homes.

Not only will we delve into current trends, but we'll also present real-world examples from Racine, WI, illustrating the transformative impact modern restoration solutions have on communities. With actionable advice and expert opinions, this post will guide you through the maze of restoration choices.

Traditional Restoration Methods: The Backbone of Reliability

The Time-Tested Techniques

Traditional restoration methods like manual moisture removal, conventional cleaners for fire damage, and basic scrubbing techniques for mold have been in use for decades. Their longevity attests to their reliability and effectiveness. These methods have withstood the test of time because they are simple, cost-effective, and require minimal specialized equipment, making them accessible to smaller service providers.

Real-World Example: Racine's Historic Properties

In Racine, WI, several historic properties still rely on traditional restoration methods for their simplicity and economic value. For instance, the Racine Historic Preservation Committee successfully used conventional restoration techniques to restore the Franklin Hall, a key historical site under threat by water damage. Manual drying and targeted cleaning preserved the architectural elegance, underscoring the continued relevance of these methods.

The Challenges

However, traditional methods are not without their limitations. They are often labor-intensive and less efficient, especially in large-scale damages. The time required for restoration can lead to prolonged displacement for homeowners, which is a significant disadvantage.

The Modern Revolution in Restoration: Technology at the Forefront

Emerging Technologies

With technology seeping into every industry inch, it's no surprise that restoration processes are evolving. Techniques such as infrared moisture detection, ozone treatments for fire-related smoke damage, and advanced air scrubbers for mold are revolutionizing how damage restoration is approached. These methods promise faster, more precise, and often more affordable solutions compared to their traditional counterparts.

The Benefits

Modern technologies often mean quicker restoration times, reducing homeowner displacement. Moreover, their precision can prevent unnecessary demolition, preserving property integrity. Advanced methods also tap into eco-friendlier solutions, appealing to environmentally conscious clients.

Striking a Balance: When to Use What

The Right Tool for the Right Job

So, does this mean we abandon traditional methods entirely? Not quite. Each approach has its place and purpose. For smaller jobs or when budget-friendliness is key, traditional methods can suffice. However, larger, more complex situations may necessitate the precision and efficiency of modern techniques.

Actionable Advice

Assess the Damage: Understand the extent and nature of the damage. Is it something a traditional method can handle, or does it require the sophistication of modern techniques?
Consider Time Sensitivity: If rapid restoration is necessary, contemporary methods might offer better solutions.
Evaluate Budget Constraints: Align restoration choices with budget considerations to ensure optimal results without financial strain.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices

In conclusion, both traditional and modern restoration methods have their roles within the industry. The key lies in choosing the right technique depending on the specific circumstances of the damage. At RestoreMore, we blend these approaches, ensuring each project receives a custom solution that best fits its needs. As industry leaders, our commitment remains steadfast in providing quality, reliability, and modern advancement in every restoration effort.

To understand which solution suits your needs best, consider visiting our services page or reach out directly for a personalized consultation. With RestoreMore, your property is not just restored; it's transformed.