Articles by Markdec on ArticleSnatch.com

The Day the Fat Kid Won

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 05:24:04 -0500

"��Double Decker"�� "�" that"��s what they called me in high school. Like many fat kids, PE was my worst nightmare. The rope? Couldn"��t climb it. Dodge ball? Always picked last "�" and always the number one target. While I dreaded the entire PE experience and the taunts from my classmates, I wasn"��t overly upset by my fatness. I was a happy kid. I had friends. And my pants fit just fine thank-you-very-much (okay, they were a few sizes bigger than everyone else"��s but they fit). One day, the coaches decided to hold Obstacle Course Day in PE. Wonderful. The other kids would have a field day as I floundered on the monkey bars, sweated through the sit-ups, and failed to lift myself through the push-ups. As I chugged around the track, I wasn"��t last, but then again I wasn"��t anywhere close to first. I managed to survive those first obstacles relatively unscathed. However, the coaches had another idea: carry three car tires across the football field. While this may seem easy, think about it for a moment. Real car tires. They"��re fat and heavy (just like me) and awkward as hell for the average teen to carry. **End Summary** Topics: The Day the Fat Kid Won]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

My Insurance Never Told Me That!

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 07:06:07 -0500

My Insurance Never Told Me That! Homeowners and property owners across the nation often find out nasty truths about their insurance policies after the fact. They may hear statements such as “Firearms aren’t covered,” “Any jewelry over $500 in value isn’t covered unless you purchased an endorsement,” “Water damage from natural floods isn’t covered,” “We don’t insure against sewage backflows,” and “Yes, your regular deductible is $500, but your hurricane deductible is $30,000.” Don’t become a victim of a catastrophe and a victim of your insurance company! Finding out that your insurance policy isn’t adequate after a loss is devastating, both emotionally and financially. Most of what you need to know is written directly in your insurance policy. Unfortunately, reading insurance policies isn’t fun, nor is it easy. Your insurance policy is likely loaded with legalese and exclusions. Depending on where you live, your state may have specific requirements and restrictions, too. So, how do you avoid “My insurance never told me that” syndrome? **End Summary** Topics: insurance]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

The Ugly Truth: Why Water Damage Can Turn to Mold

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 07:36:01 -0400

The urgency surrounding cleaning up water damage isn’t due to water damage remediation companies that are hungry for business; it’s due to an ugly truth: water damage often turns into mold damage. Despite your desire to shop around for the best company (and the best price) for the job, you don’t have the luxury of time on your side. The longer that water remains, the more likely you’ll have a moldy mess to contend with. Why does water damage turn into mold? The answer lies in the natural kingdom. Our world is a diverse one with life forms of all shapes and sizes – including microscopic life forms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mold. Mold is a microorganism that is found virtually everywhere. It reproduces by releasing spores that float through the air. These spores eventually land. If conditions are right, they begin to grow, eat, and reproduce. If not, they may lie dormant until conditions improve in their favor. In order to thrive, mold needs water. In fact, mold thrives in humid and wet environments. **End Summary** Topics: mold]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 http://dryout.typepad.com/water-damage-answers/ 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

How to Stay Positive When Disaster Strikes

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 05:09:55 -0400

Seeing your home and all of its memories, destroyed in a catastrophe is a striking blow that hits you deep within your soul. Some never recover from the trauma while others emerge stronger from the experience. Until disaster strikes, you may not know how you will respond. And when it does strike, staying positive may seem impossible – even unfair. However, as angry or as sad as you may be, remaining angry and sad is counterproductive. As with most other things, attitudes often become self-fulfilling prophesies. Try to stay positive when disaster strikes and the aftermath will be that much easier to deal with. Steps for Staying Positive: • Count your blessings. Your house may be a pile of sticks, but if you and your family are alive and well, you have much to be thankful for. • Realize that you are not alone. When a disaster strikes a community, the entire community is affected. While your suffering may be great, others are also suffering. Literally, your neighbors are feeling your pain. Many disaster victims have found great solace in comforting one another. • Realize that help is available. **End Summary** Topics: Counseling]]> medical care]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Avoid Water Damage Today

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 07:19:48 -0400

It’s an ugly beast capable of growing from a minor puddle to a major catastrophe. While water is pooling unbeknown-st to you, it is also causing damage. While ignorance may be bliss, when it comes to hidden water damage, ignorance can be financially and emotionally devastating! Avoid water damage today by. . . Inspecting your home. Since hidden water damage can quickly make itself known by becoming progressively worse and spawning mold growth, it’s wise to seek it out before it has a chance to become a problem. Go through your house, basement, garage, and other structures specifically seeking out water damage, moisture, and mold. Keep your eye out for water leaks and drips, sniff for musty odors, and listen for sounds of running or dripping water. Repairing those leaks. If you find any issues, immediately repair them. A small investment now could save you thousands of dollars later. Depending on the nature of the problem, you may be able to solve the problem on your own. A quick trip to the hardware supply store and a little elbow grease may be all that’s needed. **End Summary** Topics: home service]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Water Damage and Your Rental Property

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 06:04:55 -0400

Being a landlord has its advantages and disadvantages. When it comes to water damage and rental property one of the major disadvantages is that you are at the mercy of your tenants and their responsiveness (or lack of responsiveness) to the problem. After all, if the tenant doesn’t act promptly or notify you of a leak, water damage can go from bad to worse and you won’t know about the problem until it’s too late. Fortunately, most tenants don’t ignore major water leaks, burst pipes, and overflows. However, some may not want to bother you with minor plumbing issues. For example, if a toilet overflows, the tenant may plunge the toilet, mop up the water, and leave it at that. But what if the bathroom is carpeted and the water not fully mopped up? Soon, the carpet begins to stink and mold begins to grow. Suddenly, you have a larger problem on your hands than a simple overflow and you are now faced with replacing carpets and mold remediation costs. Because of the potential for escalating damages from water, it’s important that your tenants feel that they can contact you about any mishap. **End Summary** Topics: water damage restoration]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 07:49:45 -0400

After seeing the historic flooding of Nashville, Tennessee, the question of “how much does flood insurance cost” is on many of our minds. After all, floods are devastating – and they’re not typically covered under typical homeowners insurance policies. National flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program. As with most insurance, flood insurance rates vary based on amount of coverage and risk. For example, if you live in an area that’s prone to flooding, expect to pay more for flood insurance than someone who lives in a low risk area. Flood insurance is available for homeowners, condo owners, business owners, and renters. According to FloodSmart.gov, the average flood insurance policy costs less than $570 per year. While that may be the average, that doesn’t mean you can expect to pay that amount. Again, it comes down to the flood risk and the amount of coverage you purchase. For example, if you live in a moderate-to-low risk area and you purchase $250,000 building and $100,000 contents coverage, you would qualify for a “preferred risk” policy with an annual premium of either $355 or $395 depending on if your home has a basement or enclosure. **End Summary** Topics: water damage restoration]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

The ABCs of Water Damage Restoration

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 08:43:39 -0500

When it comes to water damage, many crucial steps must be taken to restore your home to its previous condition. From stopping the water from pouring in, extracting the water, drying out the home, and cleaning and disinfecting the mess to preventing mold, repairing plumbing, and replacing waterlogged building materials and ruined contents, the task of restoring your home is monumental. There are literally hundreds of steps that the water damage restoration team must perform. In addition, you’ll have your own set of steps to take care of such as filling out insurance claims forms and finding temporary housing. While water damage restoration is complex, it can be summed up by remember the following ABCs of water damage restoration. • Assess the Damage – Before a water damage company can get to work, it must first assess the damage. This may be as simple as identifying the source of the water and the extent of its reach to more difficult assessments and site surveys. Properly assessing the nature of the water event allows the water damage company to use the right type of equipment and techniques for the job at hand. **End Summary** Topics: water damage company]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 http://dryout.typepad.com/water-damage-answers/ 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

How to Live with Mold - or Not!

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 07:04:07 -0500

So, you have a few spots of mold appearing here and there. No big deal, right? Certainly, you can live with a little bit of mildew, dealing with spots as they appear. However, mold isn’t merely something to co-exist with complacently. In fact, mold colonies are made up of microscopic organisms, many of which are harmful. Before you decide to live with mold in your home, consider this: those stuffy noses, irritated eyes, and respiratory ailments you and your family have been suffering from could be due to mold exposure! If any of your family members is pregnant, has asthma, is elderly, is an infant, or has a compromised immune system, they are at a higher risk for potential adverse health effects from mold. From a health standpoint alone, you do not want to live with mold. Even if there weren’t unhealthy side effects, mold has other negatives including: aesthetics (mold spots and large patches of mold are ugly!), smell (entering a moldy home is unpleasant due to the musty stench), and property damage. While a few spots of mold on your bathroom ceiling may be easy to overlook, larger mold spots are eye grabbers. **End Summary** Topics: mold]]> water damage]]> mold clean up]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Tips for Avoiding Water Damage

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:23:19 -0500

If you’ve ever experienced water damage, or if you know people who have, then you likely know that the aftermath of a flood or plumbing accident isn’t pretty – or cheap. As with most unpleasant things, taking preventative measures to avoid water damage in the first place makes sense. Not only are most of the water damage prevention steps easy to perform, they are generally inexpensive, if not free! Before you begin, consider some of the common causes of water damage: drips, leaks, and clogs. With these root causes in mind, inspect your house and take action! This may involve a bit of work on your part such as cleaning out rain gutters and clogged drains, and it may require a few trips to the hardware store to buy new hoses, caulk, washers, and fittings. However, your efforts are well worth doing as a simple overflow could cost you hundreds of dollars in water damage mop up costs and repairs. Dealing with Drips While drips and leaks are similar, let’s address them separately. **End Summary** Topics: water damage company]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Take Action Now and Choose a Water Damage Company before Water Damage Occurs

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:45:56 -0500

Life is filled with its crises, some minor, some major. How we deal with events often correlates to how well we’ve prepared for them. For example, if you know that a hurricane is coming, you’ll take several preemptive actions to better protect your home such as installing storm shutters or placing sandbags in strategic areas. On the other hand, some catastrophes arrive unannounced such as a pipe bursting in your home overnight, flooding it with water. You had no warning, so you have an unexpected mess on your hands. Water damage occurs regularly, regardless of where you live. Whether you live in a high-risk flood plain or the middle of a desert, your home is at risk of sustaining water damage. Now you’ve been warned. So, what preemptive actions are you going to take to help you cope? One of the most important steps is to do your homework and select a water damage cleanup and remediation company long before the damage occurs. This is because you won’t have time to research water damage companies in the immediate aftermath of a flood. You simply won’t have time. **End Summary** Topics: water damage company]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

If You Leave it Wet â You Might Regret

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 09:02:39 -0500

Have you ever noticed a damp area in the home and figured, “I’ll get to that later”? It could be a damp spot under a window, the floorboards near the bathtub, a secluded area in the basement, or any other wet area. It’s tempting to postpone dealing with these minor issues because they are just that: minor. Or are they? The problem with leaving an area wet, even an area where you don’t spend much time such as the basement, is that while you may be ignoring the problem, the problem isn’t going away. In fact, it’s growing. While nature has a natural process, evaporation, for drying standing water, in the home this isn’t enough. Plus, these incidents are usually fed by continuous leaks, condensation, and seepage. Even if you dry the affected area one day, if the water source is not repaired, then the water will return shortly after. Not only is the problem area continuously wet, the water is slowly doing damage to surrounding surfaces. You may need to replace carpets, rugs, baseboards, floorboards, wallpaper, drapes, and other materials due to water damage. That’s regret number one. Had you not left it wet, you’d have no regret. **End Summary** Topics: water damage restoration]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

When to Stop Mopping and Start Calling

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 05:44:34 -0500

When it comes to water damage, there comes a point where you realize it’s time to stop mopping and start calling. Sure, some minor plumbing leaks and even a few major water issues can be effectively mopped up by the average homeowner. However, water is extremely damaging and the resulting damage is often best left to the pros. So, when do you know when it’s time to hang up the mop and reach for the phone? Clue #1: Your first clue is when the home is unsafe to enter. This could be because of raging waters, electrocution hazards, damage to the structure, fallen trees, and other dangers. Don’t attempt to mop up in unsafe conditions. Instead, call a pro. Clue #2: Your next clue is the sheer volume of the water flowing. It’s simple: the more water, the more water damage. Just about all water damage professionals understand the urgency of these situations and have built their companies on a model that prioritizes emergencies. These pros have their phones on 24/7 and are dedicated to providing waterlogged customers with a prompt response. They don’t arrive with mops; they arrive with industrial strength water extraction and drying equipment. **End Summary** Topics: water damage restoration]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada

How to Fix Smelly Carpet

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 08:11:13 -0500

Does your house smell like a locker room or dirty sweat socks? Whether your whole house has smelly carpet or just a room or two, the odor can be overwhelming. Common carpet odors range from cat urine and smoke odors to mildew and that oh-so-pungent sweaty sock smell. Steam cleaning the carpets oftentimes makes the smell worse, especially if the water isn’t properly extracted during the process. In fact, your carpet may not have been overly smelly until after a water mishap. Wet carpets are generally smelly carpets. If you think about it, all the dirt, debris, spills, and pet accidents soak deep into your carpet, often seeping down into the pad. Even if you mopped up the spill and regularly vacuum your carpet, the carpet pad gets nasty. Then, when you have a plumbing accident or rent a steam cleaner, your carpet becomes soggy. All that debris mixes with water and nature does its work, hastening the decomposition process which is a smelly process! Add in the potential for mold and mildew grow and it’s no wonder your carpet stinks. **End Summary** Topics: carpet]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Water Removal as Fast as You Can

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 09:44:12 -0500

Mop, mop, as fast as you can. You can’t catch me – I’m the water damage man! While the above is a silly little rhyme, keep it in mind the next time your house springs a leak or gets flooded. The urgency is real! Whether it’s a slow, seeping leak or a full blown water emergency, the sooner you get that water mopped up the less damage you will have to contend with later. Let’s take a look at a couple of scenarios. Scenario #1: Dishwasher Overflow The dishwater has overflowed and you are already late for work. You manage to turn off the water and power, but don’t have time to deal with mopping up the water until after work. No worries, right? It’s just water – and it’s clean water. Wrong. As the water sits in a puddle on your kitchen floor, it’s causing damage. It’s seeping into your hardwood floors or through the tile grout. It’s lapping against the bases of your kitchen cabinets, damaging them slowly but surely. It may even get to your drywall or seep into nearby drapes or carpets causing stains at best or, if undetected, future mildew growth. **End Summary** Topics: water damage restoration]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Bleach Mold Away, Think So? Think Again!

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:50:26 -0500

Thinking about swabbing those mold spots with bleach? Think again. This home remedy, which was once widely used and even recommended by government agencies as a first defense against mold, is NOT recommended. In fact, the EPA now recommends against using mold in its publication titled A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home. This publication says: “The use of a chemical or biocide that kills organisms such as mold (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mold cleanup.” Why not? After all, homemakers have been spraying bleach on mold spots for generations. There are several compelling reasons not to use bleach as a mold cleanup agent including its health effects, limited effectiveness, and potential to cause additional damage to building materials. Adverse Health Effects of Chlorine Bleach If you’re concerned about mold’s health effects, why would you want to subject yourself and your family to a dangerous chemical? Take a look at the warning label on your bleach bottle and you’ll see an exhaustive list of potential dangers such as: “IRRITANT: May cause severe skin and eye irritation or chemical burns to broken skin. Causes eye damage. . . **End Summary** Topics: mold removal]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 http://dryout.typepad.com/water-damage-answers/ 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Water Damage and Insurance Claims: Which to submit, which to pay out of pocket

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:08:34 -0500

Most of us know that insurance premiums often climb after filing insurance claims. After all, the more you cost the insurance company in claims, the higher a risk you become. Homeowners insurance often covers water damage, but which water damage claims will cost you in increased future insurance premiums and which will not? How do you know which water damage claim to file and which one to pay out of pocket? First, let’s look at one of the reasons why water damage claims raise red flags with insurance companies: the potential for future mold claims. It is conceivable that after the water has been cleaned up and the final bills paid, a mold claim will be next. It is also conceivable that following a water damage claim, the insurance company may expect these future expenses and raise your premiums in anticipation – or worse yet cancel your policy. Next, let’s look at the total cost for repairs versus the amount of your insurance deductible. A typical homeowners insurance policy has a $500 deductible. If the water damage repairs fall below that amount, definitely pay for repairs out of pocket. **End Summary** Topics: Insurance]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 http://dryout.typepad.com/water-damage-answers/ 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and reside

Break the Mold: Banish Mold with these Basic Home Maintenance Steps

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:30:45 -0500

What if you could break the mold on mold? You can! The key to controlling mold is preventing it from arriving in the first place. We’ve all heard horror stories about mold-infested homes that have had to be completely gutted. Obviously, if your home is already infested to this point, these basic steps will be too little, too late. But for the rest of us, paying attention to drips, leaks, and condensation can make a huge difference. Why pay attention to drips, leaks, and condensation? Because water is mold’s best friend. If you can control the water, you have the upper hand in your battle against mold. Keep in mind that mold spores are everywhere. All they need to set up a colony is water and a food source. When mold spores find a water source, they thrive and grow, eating the surface material that it has landed on whether it be paint, drywall, carpet, material, insulation, or wallpaper. Since you can’t rid your home of its building materials and furnishings, and since you’ll never be able to eradicate mold spores, your only practical choice is to control the water on which mold flourishes. **End Summary** Topics: mold removal]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and reside

When was the Last Time Your Reviewed Your Insurance Policy?

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:19:56 -0500

If you’re like most homeowners, you carefully selected a homeowner’s insurance policy when you purchased your home. You made sure that you had adequate coverage based on the value of your home, its contents, and your financial needs at the time. However, if you’ve been in your home for a number of years, it’s highly likely that your situation has changed – for better or for worse. For example: Your home may be over- or under-insured. The cost of rebuilding in your community may be much higher now than it was at the time of purchase. You may have valuable personal property that is not fully covered. You may have higher. You may be paying too much. You may have liabilities that aren’t adequately covered such as a potentially vicious dog or a swimming pool. Whether you are hoping to save money by finding a better insurance policy or increasing your deductible in exchange for lower premiums or want to ensure that you have the right amount of insurance for your situation, now is an excellent time to review your insurance policy. **End Summary** Topics: Insurance]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 http://dryout.typepad.com/water-damage-answers/ 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and reside

Mild Hurricane Season 2009: Breathe a Sigh of Relief (Not!)

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 22:41:26 -0400

2009’s hurricane season thus far has been one of the mildest seasons in the past decade. After suffering through the horrors of hurricanes such as Katrina and Ike, the Atlantic Coast was certainly due for a break. While the hurricane season hasn’t produced any monsters this year in our part of the world, the other side of the world was battered this year. For example, while we’ve enjoyed mild weather, in August, Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, Korea, and China were slammed by Typhoon Morakot, one of many typhoons affecting the Pacific and South China Seas. While we have had a mild storm season, hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons happen somewhere on the globe and they’ll be back with a vengeance before we know it. Don’t become complacent – the hurricanes WILL return! The world’s weather is affected by a Pacific ocean-atmospheric cycle known as the El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Influenced by trade winds, a pattern of rising and falling temperatures repeats itself in cycles lasting from about three to seven years. The extremes of this cycle are called “El Nino” and “La Nina” with El Nino being the warm extreme and La Nina being the cold extreme. **End Summary** Topics: water damage]]> insurance]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and resid

Winter Preparations for Avoiding Water Damage: Better Now than Later

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 05:22:57 -0400

As the days get shorter and the leaves change color, the realization that winter is right around the corner is never far from your mind. While many of us have visions of curling up with a good book and a mug of hot chocolate by a warm fire or dusting off the ski equipment and hitting the slopes, savvy homeowners are thinking about preventing winter water damage. Sure, winterizing your home is a chore, but it’s a chore best done sooner rather than later. After all, preventing water damage from occurring in the first place will save you the heartbreak and expense of winter water damage. Outdoor Winter Weatherization Steps Get out those shears! It’s time to trim your trees, paying special attention to dead branches. Heavy snow and ice as well as strong winter winds can break trees and tree branches which can damage your roof or siding, break windows, or damage your car as well as potentially injure someone. Once the trees have been cut back, get out the ladder and clean out your rain gutters. When rain gutters are clogged with debris, ice dams can form. **End Summary** Topics: water damage restoration]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA

Windows and Doors Don't Leak, Right?

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:37:04 -0400

Wrong! Windows and doors do leak. Not only can water enter your home through its doors and windows, heat can escape. Both situations are costly and both are easily addressed. Why should you seal your doors and windows? Water entry through doors and windows causes unnecessary – and expensive – water and property damage. For example, during a windy rainstorm, water can enter your home through the tiny gaps surrounding your door. This water then can ruin your flooring and everything it comes in contact with including baseboards and the feet of your furniture. Even if you catch it in time and mop up the mess before the damage occurs, preventative measures such as installing weather stripping would have saved you the hassle. In addition to allowing water in, your doors let the indoor air out. A typical home loses about 11% of its heat through doors – even more if the doors are in poor condition. Sliding glass doors lose even more due to the poorer insulation properties of glass. Likewise, windows are another area where heat escapes. Because heating and cooling your home is expensive, it makes economic sense to minimize air and water leakage. **End Summary** Topics: water damage]]>]]> About the Author: ]]>

Dryout Before You Mold Out

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 05:13:32 -0400

Mold needs two things to thrive inside your home: water and food. While you may be thinking about foods in your refrigerator, weâ€™re actually talking about mold food such as drywall and plaster. Thatâ€™s right: mold eats the materials on which it resides. Not only is mold unsightly and unhealthy, it slowly eats through building materials. In any case, you donâ€™t want it in your home or building, so make sure to dryout before you mold out. Because mold needs a moist environment before it sets up a colony and begins devouring your home, it makes sense to get the water out! Whether your home has suffered from a major flood event or you have a steady drip, drip, drip in the basement, drying out is your first defense. In fact, the first 48 hours after water has arrived are the most crucial as far as mold is concerned. A prompt response is a must if you want to avoid mold. For smaller floods such as an overflowing dishwasher in the kitchen, drying out can be a do-it-yourself job, especially if you have a tile floor and can easily mop up the water. **End Summary** Topics: dryout]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÃÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Water Damage Restoration

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 06:20:43 -0400

Water Damage Restoration Wonder what exactly water damage restoration is? As you know, when your home suffers from water damage, youâ€™ve got a big mess and a big job on your hands. The process of repairing your home to its pre-loss condition after a flood, overflow, or other water damage event is known as water damage restoration. During the water damage restoration process, several key procedures take place: loss assessment, categorizing water based on the water sourceâ€™s contamination levels, drying and decontaminating the structure and its contents, monitoring the process, and completion. Before any restoration job is undertaken, it is first evaluated so that an appropriate response is taken. For example, if you were considering buying and restoring a classic car, youâ€™d want to know exactly what you are dealing with and where to begin. When it comes to water damage, not only must the technicians fully understand the task ahead of them, insurance companies are often involved. Not only must a water damage restoration technician understand what is damaged and what needs to be done, the damage must be thoroughly inspected and documented and accurate estimates made. **End Summary** Topics: ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÃÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 http://www.dryout.net 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged by fire, water and other disasters by a network of trained specialists, technicians and restoration professionals across the USA and Canada.

Insurance and Mold

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:30:47 -0400

Misconceptions and confusion surround mold and insurance claims. After all, sometimes insurance companies cover mold; other times they donâ€™t. Many insurance companies specifically exclude mold from their policies while others will sell you additional coverage. To make it even more confusing, some states, such as Illinois, specify under what circumstances the insurance company must cover mold. So, whatâ€™s the scoop with your homeâ€™s mold issues? Will your insurance company cover it or are you on your own? Letâ€™s explore insurance and mold in greater detail. First, mold isnâ€™t a new problem. Mold has been around for eons. It is everywhere. In recent years, mold has become more of a concern thanks to scientific and medical discoveries about its health hazards. As public awareness has grown, the number of mold claims has risen, causing insurance companies to revisit the way they handle mold claims (often specifically excluding mold coverage or severely limiting coverage). In general, insurance companies will not pay for mold damage related to home maintenance (or a lack thereof). For example, if water has been seeping into your living room because of poor drainage, the insurance company isnâ€™t likely going to pay. **End Summary** Topics: mold]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> By: Mr. Mark Decherd For more information and other articles by Mark Decherd go to: DryoutÃÂ® Inc. 1415 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, Fl. 33907 239-437-7100 Water Damage Mold Dryout Inc Emergency water damage restoration, drying, deodorization, decontamination, disinfection, mold removal, water damage repair, restoration and reconstruction of commercial and residential properties damaged b