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Archive for ◊ September, 2009 ◊

Drying Concrete – in Flood Situations
Tuesday, September 29th, 2009 | Author: admin

After a water-damage disaster, restoration professionals are concerned with drying everything as quickly as possible and restoring the property to a pre-disaster condition. This includes being aware of the unique properties of concrete, its reaction to flood conditions, and the unique challenges of drying that material.
When the walls and contents are dried after flooding or other severe water damage, concrete areas are often assumed to be dried as well. New floor coverings are often installed right away. Within weeks, or perhaps months, customers may complain that the newly installed floor is defective. The real culprit, however, is not the flooring, but most likely excessive moisture remaining in the concrete and the condensation that can occur because of the “dew point.”
Dew point is the temperature at which water vapor in the air begins to condense into water (or dew). As the air cools, its ability to hold moisture is reduced. If it continues to cool, eventually the air becomes saturated with moisture and then condenses into water droplets. Normally, a concrete floor is significantly cooler than the rest of the room. Condensation will therefore occur at the surface of the concrete long before it happens elsewhere in the room. Such condensation may form on the concrete even if the rest of the room, walls, and contents have dried to their normal condition.
Many Contractors who are not restoration professionals are unaware of this phenomenon, and move forward with their restoration effort, including the installation of floor coverings.
The damage-and-complaint scenario compounds when water-based adhesives are applied over a damp concrete floor. As moisture evaporates from the concrete, the water-based adhesive absorbs it. This changes the moisture content of the adhesive and prevents it from curing and becoming fixed (or permanent). Since the adhesive fails to become fixed, it will soften and move. Sometimes it appears as bubbles or blisters in certain flooring materials. When tile is applied, the adhesive may ooze or leak out along the edges of the joints or seams. People may believe that the flooring material is defective, but the root cause is premature installation of the floor covering.
The use of water-based adhesives versus solvent-based has increased in recent years due to environmental regulations. Water-based adhesives perform very well under the correct conditions. However, when applied to a substrate with higher-than-normal moisture content, the failure rate increases dramatically.
It is important to contact restoration professionals such as PuroClean when concrete has experienced any type of water damage. Using the latest equipment and procedures, they can determine when the concrete is dry enough. The best method is to use a humidity chamber or humidity box. These are either manufactured boxes or bubbles of plastic taped to the floor.
The chamber traps the moisture released from the concrete, eventually reaching equilibrium. The Contractor carefully inserts a thermo-hygrometer into the chamber and measures the equilibrium humidity. Because concrete is hydrophilic (water-loving) this equilibrium humidity can often be in the upper 60’s. Any reading below 72% is sufficient to install carpet or tile flooring. Wood floors should have readings below 70%.
If the concrete floor needs additional drying, air movement is the best way to hasten the process. Removal of the boundary layer from the surface of the concrete facilitates additional evaporation/drying of the concrete. The room humidity levels will indicate whether a dehumidifier is also needed. If the ambient humidity of the room is below 50%, a dehumidifier is probably not needed, but ongoing monitoring should be done to check for changes.
Please note that each of the respective trades associated with installing floor coverings have established installation standards. All of those standards require the installer to determine that the subfloor (regardless of type) is in a satisfactory condition to allow proper installation of any floor covering.
Regardless of the circumstances — dealing with water damage, fire/smoke damage, or mold remediation — call your local PuroClean office, the Paramedics of Property Damage™. For all property damage situations, these professionals are standing by. They will mitigate the loss to prevent further damage and will then provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. All PuroClean offices have well-trained professional technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from water, fire, smoke, mold, and other disasters.

written by
Will Southcombe
Director of Technical Services,
PuroClean Headquarters
Master of Arts,
Master of Business Management,
Water Restoration Technician,
Applied Structural Drying,
Certified Microbial Remediator
Copyright © 2003-2009. All rights reserved in all countries.
Reproduction of the material is prohibited without prior permission.

Category: Flood  | 5 Comments
Toby Click receives WRT certification
Wednesday, September 16th, 2009 | Author: admin

PuroClean Technician Receives Certification to Better Service Colorado’s Front Range Property Owners

The “Paramedics of Property Damage” Utilize Continuing Education Tools

Thornton, CO (Grassroots Newswire) 16 Sept 2009 — PuroClean is proud to announce that Toby Click of Aurora, CO recently qualified by education and examination as an Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certified (IICRC) Water Damage Restoration Technician.

By administering a strict process of certification, the IICRC ensures consumers that they are receiving the highest quality of service from trained, knowledgeable, professional technicians. The IICRC is a nonprofit certifying and standard-setting organization dedicated to raising industry standards through technical proficiency.

PuroClean, a professional mitigation company serving the Colorado’s Front Range community, responds to property emergencies by bringing the damage under control, preventing it from becoming worse, and restoring the property back to pre-loss condition.

“Demonstrating a combination of skill, experience and care when responding to people in their time of need, Toby is an example of what sets PuroClean professionals apart from other mitigation providers,” said Will Southcombe, who heads up training and technical support for PuroClean offices nationwide. “Toby has invested many hours of study to reach this level of certification, which adds tremendous value to the level of service PuroClean Disaster Recovery Experts provides the Colorado’s Front Range community.”

Click joins the ranks of true PuroClean professionals excelling in the mitigation and restoration industry.

About PuroClean
PuroClean is a leader in property damage restoration and has earned the trust of property owners, insurance professionals and home service providers throughout the United States and Canada since 2001. Backed by a comprehensive network of nearly 300 franchise offices and a national training and business support center, each PuroClean office responds promptly to property emergencies demonstrating a high degree of professionalism and compassion. PuroClean certified technicians are thoroughly screened, insured and trained in utilizing the latest in mitigation technology and procedures throughout the remediation process while operating under a strict code of ethics. In addition to serving the needs of property owners, PuroClean offers hundreds of continuing education classes each year to insurance professionals and property service providers nationwide. In 2008, PuroClean trained over 7,200 insurance professionals nationwide helping them earn their continuing education credits. For more information on PuroClean, please contact Mark Wilson at 303-566-9600 or visit

Category: Flood  | Leave a Comment
Dealing with Furnace “Puff Backs”
Wednesday, September 16th, 2009 | Author: admin

The heating season is upon us. Many homeowners are turning on their furnaces for the first time since the final spurts of cold weather last season. Undoubtedly, there will be a flurry of problems ranging from units that simply do not work properly, resulting in an unfortunate furnace “puff back”.
The term furnace “puff back” refers to the sudden explosion (or expulsion) of soot into the dwelling caused by a malfunction in the heating system. It is usually an uncontrolled explosive ignition in the fire chamber. “Puff back” has become a familiar term and is applied to any furnace disorder that results in soot being deposited into the living area of a structure.
Correct furnace operation combines fuel and oxygen in a balanced mixture providing efficient and controlled combustion. When correctly mixed, the almost complete combustion of the fuel provides a steady flame, while producing extremely small smoke particles. These particles are carried by the hot exhaust gases and are discharged from the dwelling through the chimney.
When the rate of combustion slows, but fuel injection continues at the same rate, a sudden and violent combustion can occur. This can cause a vibration throughout the heating system, which is powerful enough to dislodge accumulated soot residue within the system – especially in the ductwork. The air stream of a forced air system picks up the soot particles and distributes them through the vents and into the living areas.
Hot water systems are not immune from “puff back”, although the particle flow is different from forced air systems. In hot water systems, soot residue follows the normal convection currents that run along the hot water pipes. Soot particles travel throughout the home, settling in areas far from the point of origin.
Residue from “puff back” is usually an oily, sticky film that often has a petroleum base. The odor is sometimes overwhelming. Because of the normal convection currents, plus the pressurization caused by the explosive combustion, the soot finds its way into every nook and cranny throughout the structure. You often find residue on exposed items such as furniture, but also behind closed doors and inside cabinet drawers. The residue can penetrate into closets affecting the clothing and other personal items.
Immediate response to a “puff back” by trained PuroClean professionals will help reduce the cost of the claim as well as any anxiety and tension that might result. By properly performing a thorough inspection of the premises and by testing various cleaning methods, a plan of action is quickly determined and then implemented.
After any malfunction, the heating system will need to be properly serviced by trained HVAC technicians. The duct system will also need to be cleaned before restarting the system. Proper care must be taken to avoid any cross contamination, which can easily occur by untrained workers. With a complete evaluation by a PuroClean professional first, these potential problems are avoided.
Due to the oily residue, it is often necessary to use alkaline degreasers and wet-cleaning methods to remove as much of the soot as possible. Often these cleaning agents are very aggressive and the structure will require further steps to return it to its pre-loss condition. Applying a heavily pigmented sealer will prevent remaining stains and their related odors from returning. PuroClean will be able to properly evaluate these situations.
Furnace “puff backs” are always unexpected and homeowners often feel devastated afterwards. PuroClean professionals understand this reaction and are fully trained to help homeowners deal with the situation.They help reassure the homeowner by taking charge of the restoration details. They will also communicate the need for professional cleaning and other services in a way that the homeowner will understand each phase of the project. Discussing ahead of time the expected results, along with any potential concerns, guarantees there will be no surprises later on.
PuroClean’s goal is to return the home to its pre-loss condition as quickly as possible and for the homeowners to be able to resume their normal lives.
Regardless of the circumstances – when dealing with “puff backs” or other fire/smoke damage, water damage, odors, or mold remediation – call your local PuroClean office, the Paramedics of Property Damage™. For all property damage situations, these professionals are standing by. They will mitigate the loss to prevent further damage and will then provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. All PuroClean offices have well-trained professional technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from water, fire, smoke, mold and other disasters.
written by
Will Southcombe
Director of Technical Services, PuroClean Headquarters
Master of Arts,
Master of Business Management,
Water Restoration Technician,
Applied Structural Drying,
Certified Microbial Remediator
Copyright © 2003-2009. All rights reserved in all countries.
Reproduction of the material is prohibited without prior permission.

Category: Smoke  | Tags: , ,  | One Comment
Odor Control
Tuesday, September 08th, 2009 | Author: admin

There are few things more offensive than a foul smell that remains after a fire, water damage, or other catastrophe in the home. And there may be nothing worse than to have your home look beautiful after repairs have been completed, but still have the lingering odor of smoke, mildew, or worse.

PuroClean has the expertise to greatly reduce the possibility of lingering odors. With the proper equipment, products, and procedures, a PuroClean professional evaluates every situation and proposes – then implements – a “plan of attack” to eliminate such problems. The professional knows when and how to use masking agents, pairing agents, electronic deodorizers, cleaners, disinfectants, and sealants. He or she will also know when demolition and removal is the best option. Most deodorization jobs will require a combination of procedures to be completely effective.

Water damage frequently causes a musty odor to remain in the home. Improper or incomplete drying of structural or content items is usually the cause. Appropriate drying of the damaged area by a qualified Technician is of utmost importance. Water detection tools available to the professional help eliminate problems that might occur later on. In addition, daily monitoring and charting of the results during the restoration process further ensures that the structure and contents are completely dried.

Odors from fire damage tend to be more complicated. A PuroClean professional will determine a number of factors such as: the source of the contamination, the degree of heat involved, the time the materials were in the structure, the extent of the contamination, and the type of materials directly contaminated. The professional will form an action plan and then implement that plan to eliminate lingering odor problems.

ODOR CONTROL PROCEDURES

Masking agents or fragrances are usually part of every deodorization process. However, care must be taken when using masking agents because they are sometimes offensive to individuals.

Pairing agents, on the other hand, tend to be odor modifiers. One such deodorizing method is to emit a dry vapor into the atmosphere that absorbs the odor molecule and neutralizes the offensive odor.

Ozone is also an odor modifier. It is often called the only true deodorizer because it physically changes the chemical composition of the odor molecule. Ozone works well on a broad range of offensive odors, but its effectiveness depends on the length of time used. It sometimes takes days for it to work well. Whenever ozone is used, caution is warranted. People, pets, and plants should be evacuated during its use. Natural rubber components should be removed or protected. A PuroClean professional knows when to use these procedures and how to use them safely.


Cleaning agents are always an important aspect of deodorization. The first and most essential step in any deodorizing situation is to remove the source, which usually involves cleaning. Unfortunately, this is often ignored or minimized by non-professionals. Cleaning sometimes requires aggressive steps to remove the source of the odors. For example, the heat from a fire causes pores in certain materials to enlarge, allowing contaminants to enter the microscopic openings. Then, once cooled, the pores close trapping the contaminant. This holds in the odor and causes problems if not treated properly. The PuroClean professional, with appropriate training, can detect such problems and perform the correct cleaning procedures.

Where there is fire and heat, there is also pressurization. Increased pressure can force odor molecules into hidden or inaccessible areas, such as behind cabinets, behind baseboards, into walls through switch and socket covers, etc. Sometimes conditions need to be re-created for complete deodorization to take place. By increasing the vapor pressure of the deodorant, it will penetrate into hidden and inaccessible areas the same way the odor molecule traveled.

Completely eliminating odors may require the application of a heavily pigmented sealer to semi-porous building materials (such as wallboard, framing, sub-floor, etc.).

This will permanently seal the remaining odor in the material. In other cases, removing the affected material through demolition is the best option.

Deodorization can be a complex issue. A PuroClean restoration expert knows the basics of odor removal. Odor can and should be attacked very simply. First, eliminate the source. Second, clean the contaminated area. And third, if necessary, seal or remove the source that was exposed to the contamination. Nature eventually deodorizes virtually all odors. Unfortunately, it can take a long time on its own. A PuroClean restoration professional, however, can greatly speed up the process with the proper equipment, training, and expertise.

Regardless of the circumstances – dealing with odors or other aspects of water damage, fire/smoke damage, or mold remediation – call your local PuroClean office, The Paramedics of Property Damage™. For all property damage situations, these professionals are standing by. They will mitigate the loss to prevent further damage and will then provide restoration services to return the property to a pre-loss condition as quickly as possible. All PuroClean offices have well-trained professional Technicians who provide the latest state-of-the-science services to all property damaged from water, fire, smoke, mold, and other disasters.

written by

Will Southcombe

Director of Technical Services, PuroClean Headquarters

Master of Arts,

Master of Business Management,

Water Restoration Technician,

Applied Structural Drying,

Certified Microbial Remediator

Copyright © 2003-2009. All rights reserved in all countries.

Reproduction of the material is prohibited without prior permission.

Category: Restoration  | One Comment
Dirty Little Problem
Thursday, September 03rd, 2009 | Author: admin

The new owners of a home we’ve recently worked on found out that their home had a “dirty little problem” in the crawl-space of their new home. Apparently, the last occupants of the home (who’d been evicted) decided to play a dirty trick on the bank which foreclosed on their home. Instead of turning their dogs loose in the back yard to do their “business” the previous tenants put them in the crawl-space and let them make their “dirt” there. This created quite a problem for the new owners who now found that they had a home with a smelly problem.

Enter: PuroClean – The Paramedics of Property Damage™. We came in and removed the offending material, fogged the area with an enzyme which will eat the odiferous droppings and used an ozone treatment on top of that. In addition we encapsulated the crawl-space to cut out any remaining smell and keep that space free from moisture problems (which would have created mold problems) when the soil around the house gets wet this winter from snow.

To view our video of this project, please click here to watch our “Dirty Little Problem” video.

Category: Restoration  | Tags: , ,  | One Comment