Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/05/2018 -- Fires can be devastating for homeowners and business owners. Most property owners immediately want to start to clean up. However, they should contact a licensed professional to clean up the fire, smoke, and water damage caused by the fire. In this article we will discuss the dos and don'ts for homeowners after a fire.

Dos for Fire Damage Restoration

-Contact a licensed and certified restoration company in Philadelphia. Only a certified restoration company should work on cleaning and remediating the damage caused from the fire. Certified companies will take the proper and necessary steps to clean and restore the home.

-Turn off utilities. Water, electricity, gas and any other utilities should be turned off until a professional can assess them for any damage.

-Vacuum. Vacuuming the affected areas can help prevent the soot from settling. Go over upholstered furniture with a vacuum that has a brush attachment. To sit on any upholstered furniture, place a sheet over it so that soot will not be ground into the fabric.

-Address carpets, countertops, and floors. The same treatment can be done to carpets, countertops, and floors. A vacuum can be run over the affected areas to provide a superficial immediate improvement. This will also help and prevent soot from settling and grinding into affected areas such as carpets and rugs.

-Check appliances. Utilities should be turned off, so it is important to empty the freezer and refrigerator. The doors should be left open to prevent mold. Plumbing should be winterized, and the hot water heater and boiler should be drained as the lack of heat in the home can cause burst pipes.

-Care for Pets, elderly, young, and the sick. Pets, elderly, young children, and those who are sick should be removed from the home as lingering soot and smoke can be harmful to their health.

Don'ts for Fire Damage Restoration

-Use electronics, AC or heater. Electronics and HVAC units should be inspected by a professional before use. Using these items before a professional can inspect them for damage can cause more damage to the home and the equipment.

-Clean walls or clothing. Walls, Ceilings, and other similar surfaces should be left alone. Clothing and other fabrics should also not be cleaned. A professional should inspect the damaged items and provide advice on how to clean the items.

-Eat leftover food. Everything that was in the home before the fire should be thrown out. Most of the food in the home has been contaminated from the smoke, soot, or other contaminants from the fire.

-Wipe away powder from extinguishers. The residue from a fire extinguisher can stain surfaces. However, a homeowner should leave this residue and let a professional clean it up.

These are just some guidelines to follow after a fire occurs in a home. All major cleaning and remediation work should be left to licensed and certified professionals. If you've experienced a fire at your home let First Choice Restoration Be Your First Choice in fire and smoke damage cleanup. We can be reached at 1-800-370-0770 or http://firstchoicerestore.com.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. We also operate additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. We have been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/13/2018 -- Most homeowners do not think about certain appliances failing, until the appliance does fail. This I especially true with hot water heaters. The average tank-style hot water heater has a lifespan of about 10 years. Wear and tear is inevitable and eventually the unit will give out. Homeowners will have questions like: what sort of damage can the failed water heater cause; Are there ways to prevent such damage if/when the tank gives out; Who should the homeowner call if the tank does give out unexpectedly? First Choice Restoration is here to answer all of these questions and to clean up the damage.

Damages

Leaks can begin where the cold-water supply line and hot-water line connect to the tank. These leaks can often go unnoticed and cause damage to the home. Long-term leaks from the hot water heater can saturate the walls and spread outwards from the source. In this environment mold can grow and spread throughout the home. If a room shares a wall with the leaking water heater then more damage can occur. Entire walls can be affected whether it be by mold growth or water causing the walls to lose their integrity causing cabinetry to fail.

Another potentially catastrophic event that could happen to a hot water heater is that the tank could rupture. Constant changing of temperatures make the tank expand and contract. This constant expanding and contracting in turn wears on the unit and can cause a sudden rupture without any warning. A typical tank can hold from 40-50 gallons of water. If a tank ruptures, leaks, or suddenly gives out and spews its contents, those 40 to 50 gallons can easily flood the house with 1 or 2 inches. This scenario is worse if the unit is in an interior room or hallway closet.

Prevention

The best way to keep most of the above scenarios from happening is by conducting routine inspections of the water heater. Periodically check for moisture surrounding the connections, pooling water on the top of the tank or on the stand that it rests on. The surrounding walls and floor should also be checked for any water, soggy drywall, or mold. If mold is found during this inspection, then a certified mold specialist should come to remediate it immediately. A quick response to finding any of these is the key to avoiding costly cleanup.

Another way to prevent damage is to move the water heater from an inside room or hallway closet to the garage. If the hot water heater is in the garage when it ruptures or leaks, then less damage will occur to the home. Also, the water heater can be placed on a stand that is specifically designed for water heaters. This stand raises the tank off the floor to prevent it from damages from other sources of water that may enter the area.

A third way to prevent damage from a ruptured or leaking water heater is to replace it with a tankless system. These systems heat the water directly without the use of a storage tank. While this system may deliver hot water immediately it does reduce the flow rate of the water to the tap.

SOS

If the unfortunate situation occurs where the water heater bursts suddenly, then the homeowner should look for a restoration company to clean up the damage. The homeowner might also look into hiring a public adjuster for their insurance claim.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicerestore.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/06/2018 -- No one wants sewage backed up into their home or office space. Not only because of the resulting water damage but also because of the contamination that lurks in the sewage that can cause illness or death. Damage caused by sewage backup should only be cleaned by a trained water damage professional.

Health Affects

As discussed above the waste in this type of backup includes contamination that can result in illness or death. Sewage contamination accounts for about 2 million cases of illness per year according to the National Resources Defense Council. Some of the most common conditions caused by bacteria in sewage are:

1. E. Coli. This is potentially deadly. Symptoms include: abdominal cramping and diarrhea.

2. Salmonella. Symptoms include abdominal cramping and diarrhea.

3. Hepatitis. This causes liver inflammation and can lead to liver failure.

4. Leptospirosis. Symptoms include vomiting and muscle aches.

5. Acanthamoeba. This leads to infection of the eyes, nose, ears, and throat.

6. Helicobacter Pylori. This increases the risk of ulcers.

Causes and Warning Signs

Backups are usually caused by a clogged sewer line, which can be impossible to spot. However, there are some signs of a clogged sewer line that can appear.

1. Several Drains are Backed Up. If several drains are experiencing backups or trouble draining (i.e. sinks, bathtubs, toilets) there could be a clog in the sewer line.

2. Backups in Strange Places. If using one plumbing fixtures causes a backup in a different plumbing fixture, this could mean there is nowhere for the water to go.

3. Sewer Cleanout Backup. A sewer cleanout is usually a pipe, white or black in color, that extends from the building. This pipe allows access to the sewer line. If this pipe is full of water, then there is a good chance that the sewer line is clogged.

If it is determined that the sewer line is clogged, then the property owner must determine what clogged the line. There are many things that can cause a sewer line to become clogged. Some of the most common cause are as follows:

1. Roots. Tree roots and roots from bushes can infiltrate sewer lines as they look for moisture in the soil. This can easily cause a blockage.

2. Structural Defects. Structural issues in the foundation that can affect the sewer lines can also put the sewer lines at risk for blockage.

3. Flushing the Toilet. Do not flush anything down the toilet that isn't supposed to be flushed. This includes: flushable wipes, solid objects, paper towels, etc.

4. Blockage in the City Sanitary Main. Occasionally the main sanitary line for the city can get clogged and cause backups through floor drains in nearby house and buildings.

5. Wet Weather and Flooding in or near the building

6. Broken, blocked, or leaking pipes.

Prevention

There are plenty of things that are out of a property owners control to prevent sewage backups. However, there are also plenty of things that a property owner can do to help prevent sewage backups.

1. Seal any cracks in the foundation of the building and waterproof the basement.

2. Do not wash grease down the drain as it might harden and clog the pipes.

3. Plumbing fixtures in the basement should be removed or raised. This includes sinks, toilets, and washing machines.

4. Do not flush anything down the toilet other than toilet paper.

5. Sewer lines can be replaced with plastic piping to prevent root infiltration.

6. A Sump pump can be installed into the basement to pump out excess water.

7. Drain trappers can be used in bathtubs and sinks to catch hair and large items that might clog the pipes.

Property owners who experience sewage backups should call a water damage restoration company.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/14/2018 -- Mold spores exist in small quantities everywhere, including in homes. You cannot remove all mold from inside of a structure.

Restoration companies, such as First Choice restoration, understand what goes in to removing and remediating mold within a building. There are essentially 5 steps to mold remediation.

Step 1: Moisture

Moisture is usually the source of mold growth. If a property owner notices mold in their building, they should locate all places in the building where moisture can get in. By locating these places, the property owner can find all of the mold growth and not just what they see with their eyes.

Step 2: Documentation of the problem and developing a plan of action

The property owner should document all mold growth with pictures, videos, and written accounts. The next thing to do would be to create a plan of action which would state when the remediation work will begin, when it will be completed, who will perform the work, and what the schedule for the work will be. The plan of action would also include if the tenants of the building need to relocate during this work and any testing that needs to be completed.

Step 3: Calculate contamination

Mold doesn't always grow in just one area. Therefore, before work can begin the area of contamination needs to be calculated and addressed. This would mean that all areas that contain mold contamination need to be located, documented, and be included in the mold remediation work.

Step 4: Remediation

The remediation process consists of cleaning up existing mold while avoiding exposure to people involved with the process and the tenants of the building. The process also includes the prevention of new mold growth by addressing moisture sources. The steps to remediation mold are as follows:

1. Repair the moisture source – This prevents more mold growth

2. Isolate the area of contamination – Close all doors and windows between the contaminated and noncontaminated areas. If the building has a higher level of mold, then the openings should also be covered in 6 mil polyethylene sheeting.

3. Dust Suppression – mist the dust with water to make it stick to surfaces.

4. Removal of materials – All materials that are wet, porous, and mold damaged should be removed from the area.

5. Materials should be placed in bags – All material that is being removed should be placed in 6 mil thick plastic bags. All materials should be double bagged and tied at the top. The out side of the bags should be wiped down with a wet cloth and detergent before being placed in the trash. This last step is to prevent the spread of mold to uncontaminated areas.

6. Cleaning – All non-porous material and wood surfaces must be cleaned. A wire brush can be used on all moldy surfaces. After the brush, all surfaces should be wiped with disposable wipes. Disposal of garbage should follow the double bagging in 6 mil thick bags process mentioned above. All moldy surfaces should be scrubbed using a damp cloth and a detergent solution then rinsed with clean water.

7. Cleaning of affected areas – This portion of the cleaning process varies depending on the level of mold in the area. For level 1 things can be cleaned with a damp cloth/mop and a detergent solution. For level 2 all surfaces should be vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum and then followed by the damp cloth and detergent solution. Everything should be discarded as described above,

8. Visibility – All areas should be checked after cleaning is complete. No contamination, debris, dust, or dirt should remain.

9. Drying – All cleaned materials should be thoroughly dried so that no moisture is present. Fans and dehumidifiers work to accomplish this. Also, raising the temperature inside of the building can speed up the drying process.

10. Replacement – All materials that were affected should be replaced or repaired.

Step 5: Determine the success of the clean up

Just because the area has been cleaned and there's no dust or dirt left behind does not mean that the process is complete. The last step is to determine if the cleaning process was a success. The guidelines to determine this are if the moisture source has been fixed, no sign of visible mold, mold damage, or moldy odors, and no physical symptoms should occur to people residing in the building. Some companies will want to do additional testing at this stage to check the mold levels.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicerestore.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/02/2018 -- Temperatures in the area are starting to rise which can only mean one thing: summer is on its way. It's time to remember that as the temperatures rise objects outside dry out and are more prone to catching on fire. It should be noted that fires can take as little as 30 seconds to get out of control. Below are some ways to prevent fires during the summer, both indoors and outdoors.

Ways to Prevent Fires Indoors:

- Replace the filters in your Air Conditioning unit regularly. If an AC unit is installed into the window, plug it directly into an outlet. Do not use extension cords when it comes to window units.

- Keep the stove and surrounding areas free and clean from grease build up. This area deals with flames and heat already and grease can be a trigger for fire. To prevent a fire from spreading from under the pots and pans be sure keep the surrounding areas clean of grease and other flammable objects.

- Attics and Basements are often where rodents and insects take refuge during the winter months. Come spring homeowners should inspect these areas for damaged wiring. Damaged wiring can cause fires.

- Flickering lights, blown fuses, and powers urges can be signs of electrical issues and can cause fires. If the lights flicker, or there are frequent powers surges, call an electrician in to check the electrical service panel.

Ways to Prevent Fires Outdoors:

- Summer is the time when grills come out of storage and are used regularly. However, be sure that the grill is at least 10 feet from the house and not under any trees, plants, or overhangs.

- If using a coal fired grill, be sure to drench the hot coals with water to make sure the fire is out.

- The same can be said for outdoor firepits. Be sure that they are an adequate distance from the home and are not under any trees, plants, or over hangs. Do not leave the fire unattended and be sure to pour water on the ashes when finished.

- Sometimes towns will put "burn bans" in place. During this time nothing should be burned outside (including leaves, trash, wood, or brush).

- If there is not a burn ban in place, then make sure water is readily available to put out any fires.

- All flammable liquids like gasoline, poisons, etc. should be stored safely outdoors, preferably in a shed or building not connected to the house.

- If a car is parked in grass or near grass, it should be noted that car exhaust can ignite a fire if the grass is dry. Try to park in an area away from grass to avoid this situation.

- Smokers should smoke outside. There should be a container filled with sand to place cigarette butts in. Smokers should also make sure that the cigarette butt is completely extinguished before walking away.

-If using fireworks be sure to light them off in a clear open area away from house, trees, plants, or things than can catch on fire. Be sure to point the firework in the right direction.

There are some things that are considered "best practices" that you can do in the event of a fire. These would include the following:

- Develop a Family Action Plan and/or Fire Escape Plan. These are plans on how to get out of the house and where to meet in the event of a disaster, they include any emergency contacts like family and doctors. These escape plans should be practiced every couple of months.

- Houses should have smoke detectors throughout. In order to keep families safe, homeowners should check them once a month and replace the batteries once a year. Carbon monoxide detector should also be checked once in a while.

While most of the above actions can be completed throughout the year it is important to check them once the temperatures start to get warmer and things dry out. To keep families cool for the summer remember to check for damaged wiring, keep the grill at least 10 feet from the house, check smoke detectors, don't use extension cords with window AC units, make sure all outdoor fires are extinguished when done, park away from grassy areas, and keep flammable liquids securely in shed not attached to the house.

Homeowners that sustained fire or smoke damage and live in Lehigh County, which includes: Allentown, Rising Sun, Fullerton, Germansville, New Tripoli, and Schnecksville, should call 911 first then call First Choice Restoration at 800-370-0770.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicerestore.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/02/2018 -- Flooding to a homeowners' building is a dangerous experience, whether it is confined to your recreation room or the entire house. High floodwater carries the risk of drowning, but even smaller house floods most likely can result in dangerous electrical hazards and contamination risks from polluted water.

A flood puts a person at risk for electrocution. If an individual makes physical contact with floodwaters and your home is not fully disconnected from the electrical grid, an individual can sustain serious injury or even death. Never enter a flooded basement or recreation room until an electrician or a utility worker has fully disconnected your home from the electrical grid. Even if a homeowner has lost power during a storm, a neighbor's running generator could cause enough back feed of electricity to cause electrocution. Thus, an individual should not enter a home until a government authority states that it is all clear to do so.

Floods that occur suddenly, flash floods, are extremely dangerous. The Centers for Disease Control reports that more than half of all flood-related deaths occur when a vehicle is driven into flash floodwater. According to the National Weather Service, a mere 5 inches of fast-moving floodwater can knock an adult to the ground. It only takes just 12 inches of fast moving water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away almost any vehicle.

In addition to the risks of electrocution and bodily injury, contaminated floodwater can be a serious threat to one's heath. Mostly, there are three kinds of floodwater a homeowner might encounter. Clean water and greywater flooding is usually confined to the home, while blackwater flooding can happen to a home but can occur on a larger scale, such as the widespread flooding after a severe weather event.

Floodwater that does not pose an immediate health threat is known as clean water. Clean water floods can result from a water supply line burst, rainwater or melting snow. Clean water home floods are generally safe for the homeowner to clean up if there is not a tremendous amount of water in the home, but standing clean water can easily become greywater in as little as 24 hours.

Greywater is wastewater that is not contaminated with fecal matter and/or urine. Generally, it contains fewer pathogens than blackwater and can be reused for non-potable purposes, such as toilet flushing. Greywater still contains trace amounts of contaminants and cannot be ingested. Greywater must be removed immediately by a professional remediation company or it can turn into blackwater within as little as 48 hours.

Blackwater is wastewater that is contaminated with human waste. Blackwater comes from sewer lines within in the home or at the street level that backs into your home. Raw sewage is classified as blackwater. Blackwater contains dangerous bacteria and pathogens that can fully decompose and release into the surrounding environment. It can also be contaminated with dissolved chemicals, making contact with this water even more dangerous. The air should not be breathed in for long periods of time. Breathing the air may cause serious health problems. When it comes to flooding, blackwater floods are the most hazardous and the most destructive. The unsanitary conditions of this water absorbs into porous building items such as drywall, wood, and fabric items that make them unsalvageable.

Due to the recent storms in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, the professionals at First Choice Restoration have recently cleaned up damaged floodwater properties in New Jersey from Lambertville to Manahawkin and in Pennsylvania from Philadelphia to Allentown. It is important for a restoration company to understand the importance of prompt response time. A restoration company must be available 24 hours 7 days a week to help get the homeowner back to pre loss condition. While most disasters cannot be predicted, if you live in flood prone areas, or have had plumbing-related floods in the past, the following are a few things that can protect the homeowner:

- Keep an eye on any areas in your home that have had water damage in the past.

- Inspect plumbing in the home twice a year. Check water supply lines, drain lines, shutoff valves, appliance connections for potential leaks.

- Install flood alarms in the basement or recreation room of the home for help with early detection and to prevent extensive damage.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicerestore.com or call 800-370-0770.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/05/2018 -- The spring storm season is approaching fast. This is an ideal time to take steps to prevent storm damage to any home or business. Here are some tips to prepare for the stormy season:

High Winds and Tornadoes

- Every year, there are approximately 1200 tornadoes reported in the United States and countless more high wind events also occur. Property damage from these wind events range in the 100's of millions of dollars. In face of such huge force of nature, what does an individual do?

1. Do not remain in a vehicle. In fact, get as far away from the vehicle as possible. Find a low-lying area and shield the upper body to protect from flying debris.

2. Tornados jump around over the surface of the earth. So do not try to out run a tornado with a vehicle.

3. The best protection while in a home is to go to the lowest level of a home away from exterior walls. Take cover in a closet until the tornado or wind event is over.

Of course, always have a prevention plan in place. People that live in high wind or tornado areas are familiar with the warning signs of the impending nasty weather. In the case of a tornado, when witnessing the funnel clouds or when hearing the siren warning, try to attempt to run for cover and do not stay out in the middle of a field.

Once the event is over, it best to call in a professional such as First Choice Restoration headquartered in Philadelphia, PA with additional locations throughout the United States to help rebuild.

Flooding

- Flooding is responsible for billions of dollars in property damage a year in the United States. In some instances, floods can be sudden and over powering. Other times flooding can be forecasted before hand. If faced with flash flooding, here are a few tips to keep in mind.

1. Do not attempt to drive a car through flood water. Just 6 inches of water of flash flooding on the road can sweep a car away.

2. During a torrential downpour, stay away from low-lying areas to avoid being carried away by rushing water.

3. Always have an evacuation plan in place in case moving to higher ground is needed.

Once the water subsides, it recommended to call First Choice Restoration of Philadelphia to remediate the loss and help with the insurance claim.

Lightning

Most people would think that tornadoes are more dangerous than lighting, but lightning is more common and thus more dangerous. The air surrounding a lightning strike could reach up to 55,000 degrees Fahrenheit—that is hotter than the surface of the sun. If outside during a lightning storm, follow these safety rules.

- Avoid being at the highest point. If in an open field, find the lowest area away from trees, fences, and poles. Feeling tingling throughout the body means the atmosphere is charged with electricity. To minimize contact with the ground, stand up in a crouched position and place hands on the knees shielding the head between them.

- It is best to stay in the automobile. It will provide better protection then being exposed to the open elements.

These tips are recommended for survival through any of the above storms. When making an insurance claim for property damage, it may be best to get professional help from a Public Adjuster.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicerestore.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/29/2017 -- The winter holidays are some of the most wonderful times of the year. They bring our families and friends together with festive celebrations. However, there is a dark side to the holidays that can't be ignored. According to the National Fire Protection Association, the holidays are the leading time for home cooking fires.

As homeowners prepare for their holiday celebrations, it is best to keep the following safety tips in mind:

1. While preparing a meal stay in the kitchen when holiday food is grilling or broiling. If a homeowner leaves the kitchen, make sure they turn off the stove.

2. When turkey is being prepared, do not leave the house.

3. A cooking timer can prevent fires. Cooking timers are a great tool that reminds homeowners when to turn off the stove or oven.

4. If a homeowner has long hair, make sure it is pulled back. Long hair can burn easily especially, if it is next to a stove top.

5. Have a fire extinguisher handy, never throw water on a grease fire!

6. Be sure to clean the kitchen floor before cooking.

7. Keep all young children out of the kitchen while the homeowner is cooking.

8. Be sure to test your smoke alarms before company arrives.

9. When cooking a turkey, be sure to wear long cooking gloves to protect your hands.

If a homeowner experiences a holiday fire, an Atlantic City, NJ remediation company must be called right away. They will set up air movers, fans, negative air scrubbers, and remove the affected areas to remove the smoke smell. The fire department may even cause certain areas of the home to become water damaged while the fire is being extinguished. The restoration company will also remove water damaged areas and prevent the growth of mold. A Philadelphia, PA restoration company will have a homeowner back on their feet in no time!

Individuals interested in hiring an established fire damage restoration company in the Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Camden County areas can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 1-800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 09/05/2017 -- Making the right choice following water damage is never easy. Property owners may not have the proper education about the process, since water accidents are rare. The property owner should educate themselves about the water remediation process before making the right choice.

Water remediation workers need to be licensed to begin working in a property. Be sure to ask the remediation company in Wilmington,Delaware if they are IICRC certified and if they follow certain protocols when removing affected areas. It is also important to ask whether the water remediation company does removal and rebuild. The property owner should also ask how long the process will take.

A licensed water remediation company will remove the affected areas, use air movers, fans, and dehumidifiers to clean the water damage in your home. These procedures will ensure that the property owner's home or business is clean and disinfected.

It is important to call a water remediation company immediately following a loss, since it can take less than twenty-four hours for mold to form. It doesn't take long for black mold to form in a structure and breathing in spores can cause a myriad of different health effects. If a property owner has respiratory problems it is very important to remove spores because they can exasperate chronic breathing conditions.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration in Camden, NJ is licensed and certified to perform water remediation in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and New Jersey. They are a property owner's dependable water remediation partner and will work to the highest level of care. Property owners interested in hiring an established water damage restoration company in Montgomery County, Camden County, and Bucks County can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 800-370-0770.

Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 08/01/2017 -- As a property owner, it is easy to confuse the processes of mold removal and mold remediation. It is essential to the know differences before hiring the right professional to compete the job. After reading this article, the property owner will know the key differences between the two and will be able to make an informed decision.

What is the difference between Mold Removal and Remediation?

If you can visibly see mold in your property, there is no need to spend money on expensive mold testing. At the first sight of mold, the simple solution is to remove it. Mold removal is defined as the following, "removing mold from the structure". Mold Remediation is part of the same process, but with a key difference. Mold remediation will prevent the problem from continuing and growing.

The Steps to Successful Mold Removal and Remediation

The mold remediation company in Bensalem, PA will complete an assessment of the structure and determine the source. Once the job is complete, another assessment of the area will be completed. The mold remediation company will complete tests to ensure that the mold has been removed and will not grow again in the same area. To properly remove mold, the remediation company will physically remove mold at its source and remove any moisture from the affected area. The remediation company will also complete contamination control and prevent the spread of mold to other areas in the property.

Cleaning the Affected Area

Once the mold is physically removed from the source, the air will be cleaned of airborne mold spores using a piece of equipment called a HEPA vacuum. This piece of equipment replaces filthy, mold infested air with clean air, through ventilation. The remediation company in New Jersey, will also use negative air containment. This is created by using air pressure machine and fans to attract clean air back into the contaminated area. This process also removes contaminated air from the property. The remediation company will have the equipment in your home for at least three days. Do not trust any mold remediation company who promises to complete the job in just one day.

Hiring the Right Remediation Company

Hiring the right mold remediation company can make the biggest difference. All mold remediation companies should be IIRC certified to remove mold and will use the safest procedures in your property. The IIRC certification ensures that the mold remediation company uses state mandated provisions to remove mold. Before hiring a mold remediation company in Gloucester county, NJ make sure that they have the proper certifications. The property owner should also make a list of questions to present the mold remediation company. Below are examples of appropriate questions:

A. "How has your company been removing mold?"
B. "Is your company state certified to remove mold in properties"?
C. "Can I have references from past clients?"
D. "How many days will you leave the equipment in the property?"

If the company can offer adequate answers to these questions, then they are the right choice for your home or business.

Individuals interested in hiring an established mold remediation company in Newark, NJ can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 800-370-0770. Additional locations available in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 07/05/2017 -- Nature has a mind of its own and can be unforgiving to a property owner's home or business. Floods, earthquakes, and fires can leave properties devastated, leaving the property owner with a wide variety of emotions. Fear, disbelief, and anger are common emotions following a disaster. Although, it may be difficult, it is important for the property owner to keep calm following a disaster. The property owner should immediately contact an, Ocean County, NJ, Cape May County, NJ, and Atlantic County, NJ restoration company to clean and restore their property.

Content Cleaning

An IIRC certified restoration company will assess the damaged contents and make a determination about what should be cleaned. Content cleaning is a thorough process where damaged contents are dried, cleaned, deodorized, sanitized, and resurfaced. Furniture, electronics, clothes, are just a few examples of items that must be cleaned by the restoration company. Although, the property owner may want to clean the contents themselves, it is important that they leave this work for the professionals.

Damaged property

The restoration company will also inspect the property and remove any damaged areas. For example, areas affected by floods will be dried and sprayed with chemicals to prevent mold. If a house fire occurs affected areas will be removed, deodorized, and cleaned to remove potent smells. Once the property has been cleaned and dangerous areas have been removed, the property owner can begin rebuilding.

Communication

Any correspondence between the property owner and the insurance company needs to be documented. The property owner should also document communication between themselves and the restoration company. All receipts and contents must also be saved and itemized. It is also recommended that the property owners take a lot of photos before and after the restoration work is complete.

A disaster is never easy, but hiring the right restoration can save the property owner's possessions, home, or business.

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is the premier disaster remediation company in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. With over forty years of experience, let First Choice be your first choice!

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/24/2017 -- A realtor has the difficult job of presenting homes to potential buyers. Realtors understand that future homeowners have certain demands when viewing a property. Even if the realtor discovers a great property in a safe neighborhood, several variables can delay the sale. Water damage, mold, and foul odors can ruin even the perfect dream home. If a realtor discovers these problems, they may initially feel hopeless. It can be a daunting task to mitigate, what seems like years' worth of damage. Thankfully, restoration companies can work directly with realtors to mitigate damage to the home.

A restoration company in Philadelphia PA is IIRC certified knows the proper techniques and provisions to safely restore a home. The restoration company can mitigate many types of damage. If a property has mold, a restoration company in Trenton, NJ can find the affected areas and remove the mold. They will disinfect the affected areas and remove any walls that contain mold.

Foul odors can also cause trouble for the realtor. Various odors can stick to the property's walls overtime and could cause the entire home to stink. A restoration company can use various treatments to remove the odor and prevent it from returning. Restoration companies in Bristol, PA can use either thermal fogging or ozone treatments to remove stubborn odors. These treatments remove the odor at the molecular level. Ozone treatments send electrical currents through the air which removes the odor. Thermal fogging is a special technique used to remove odor from porous materials. Thermal fogging creates fine particles that removes odors from areas that are typically too difficult to clean. The restoration company will also treat any fabric and vacuum any affected area.

Restoration companies can also dry and treat water damaged areas. Water damaged areas will be removed from the home and fans will be placed in areas where mold can grow. Affected areas will also be treated to remove bacteria and prevent odor from forming. A restoration company in Newark, New Jersey, will know the best procedures to safely remove water damaged areas.

Realtors can depend on restoration companies such as First Choice Restoration to act as a dependable partner, restore the property to the proper condition, and work to the best level of care. Realtors interested in hiring an established fire and smoke restoration company in the Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Camden County areas can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/14/2017 -- A property owners' worst nightmare is a fire. A fire can swiftly destroy everything the business or homeowner worked so hard to build. Thankfully, not all fires are catastrophic and many times a fire can be contained without causing too much damage. Unfortunately, a side effect of small flare-ups is the lingering smell of smoke.

Once the fire has cleared there will be a strong odor left in the property. What's worse is that the longer the property owner waits to clean the property, the longer the smell will linger. Smoke and ash soak into the furniture, walls, ceilings and floor covering, which may cause the property to smell longer than the property owner desires.

Therefore, it is important to remediate a fire (no matter how small it is). Steps a homeowner can take following a fire to neutralize the smoke odor are simple. Once the fire has been extinguished it is important to ventilate the house as quickly as possible. After ventilation, open the doors and windows to navigate the smoke out of the property. The property owner must make sure to turn off any HVAC systems to avoid further spreading the smell of smoke. Property owners' can also rent industrial negative air scrubbers and shop vacs. The negative air scrubbers are used to direct the smell out of the property and the shop vac is a more efficient way to clean soot than a normal household vacuum cleaner.

A property owner can take the first steps mitigating a fire loss, but will eventually need the help of professionals. An IICRC restoration company needs to be called immediately after a fire. A mitigation company in Bristol, PA will bill your insurance company directly and no money comes out of the property owner's pocket. Restoration companies are usually certified and state licensed. They know the proper techniques to remove smoke odor. Typically, a restoration company will use thermal fogging or ozone treatments to remove the odor. Thermal fogging and ozone treatments are unique treatments that attack the odor at the molecular level. An ozone treatment sends an electrical current through the oxygen, which removes the smoky odor. Thermal fogging is similar, except this technique generates fine particles and is used to infiltrate the small pores of affected materials. A Morrisville, PA restoration company will also vacuum and clean every part of the property to ensure soot doesn't stick to your walls or furniture.

Individuals interested in hiring an established fire and smoke restoration company in the Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Camden County areas can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 01/09/2017 -- Gas Heat: Savings at a Cost

Switching from electric heat to natural gas is a wise decision for the thrifty property owner. Not only does a gas heater warm the property faster than an electric heater, the price of natural gas is much lower than electric. During the winter months property owners with gas heaters can expect to save hundreds during the colder months. However, there is one disadvantage to a gas heater that many property owners don't consider. Gas heaters can cause condensation during winter months. The buildup of condensation eventually can cause mold. The hot air from the gas heater holds moisture and as the air becomes colder, moisture begins to condense on the walls. Left unchecked the condensation gradually increases and mold will form on the property's walls.

Health Hazards

Everybody's sensitivity to mold is different and exposure symptoms can be mild or severe. Left untreated mild mold exposure can cause throat irritation, violent coughing fits, and eye and skin irritation. For those with an acute sensitivity to mold, exposure can be deadly. Elderly property owners with diminished immunities can expect to contract serious lung and upper respiratory infections.

Mold Testing and Remediation

A property owner can purchase a mold kit to test samples themselves. The samples collected will be sent to a laboratory for results. The test will give you a detailed summary of the mold particles in the affected area. Usually the property owner will want to collect samples from multiple places, since mold spores fluctuate from different areas. However, this process can be dangerous for those who are untrained in mold testing. The best way to ensure that the property is properly tested is by hiring a IICRC Certified Restoration Company in Philadelphia, PA. A professional is trained in handling mold and can ensure the accuracy of the test. An IIRC Certified Restoration company in Bucks County can remediate and isolate the contaminated area.

Steps of the remediation process include:

A. Isolating the contaminated area.
B. Suppressing dust
C. Removing wet and mold damaged materials
D. Cleaning the affected areas
E. Conducting visibility tests to ensure all areas are free of contamination
F. Drying the area
G. Repairing and replacing all affected areas

Individuals interested in hiring an established mold remediation company in the Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Camden County areas can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 12/07/2016 -- Pipe Bursting

Winter is already here and that means homes across the nation are susceptible to frozen pipe bursts. Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, which is a nightmare for any property owner. Pipe bursts are caused by the water expanding in your pipes as the water inside gets close to freezing. As the pressure inside the pipe increases, the pipe will eventually burst. According to studies freezing incidents can occur when temperatures are 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Pipes that have already begun cracking are already at risk. That's why it's important for property owners to check their pipes during the warmer months to prevent pipe bursting during the winter season. However, it is not too late for homeowners to call an Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) right now to assess their pipes this winter season. According to the Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety a pipe bursting can cause over $5,000 worth of damage if left untreated, a price too high for something that can easily be avoided.

What to do if you have a Pipe Burst?

As a property owner, there are several steps you can take to prevent further damage from pipe bursting, discussed below are necessary steps you should take immediately after your pipes burst.

Shut off the Water

The first step to take is to turn off your water. This will prevent the flow of water and stop any more from coming into the pipes. In addition to stopping the flow of water, check any electrical sockets and turn off the electrical supply. The water damage may have affected the power as well. If this problem is left unattended a property owner may have a house fire as a bonus, to their already costly water damage. Immediately following a pipe burst turn off any electrical supply to prevent any further damage.

Getting your home back in order

Getting a property back in order can be frustrating (and time consuming), but it is a necessary part of the restoration process. Cleaning the property after the accident is an important first step to getting everything back in working order. Also, the owner must dry out the affected areas. Drying the home is a time consuming part of the process and some portions of the home can take weeks to finally dry. However, the process can be sped up by giving the affected areas enough air to circulate.

In addition to drying, portions of the property will also need to be stripped and replaced. Furniture and other household fixtures will need to be replaced if damaged by water.

The property owner must make sure to take an inventory of all their damaged items after an accident. Finally, repairs will be made when the ceiling, walls, and floor are fully dried. Once the areas are fully dried, cosmetic repairs can be made.

Preventative Measures

A property owner must make it a priority to inspect their pipes annually.

An owner of a property can make inspections themselves, but it is recommended that you call an expert. By hiring an IICRC remediation company a property owner can be assured that their home will not be affected by pipe bursting. They can make the necessary repairs to pipes before damage ever occurs. Another preventative measure is to make sure the property is heated around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (especially if the owner is leaving for vacation). Other preventative measures include having pipes inspected during warmer months, leaving the property's loft hatch open to let warmer air circulate, and to insulate the pipes.

Individuals interested in hiring an established expert in pipe bursting in the Burlington County, Gloucester County, and Camden County areas can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 1-800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 11/23/2016 -- Property Water Damage

Water damage is a frustrating situation for any home or business owner. Untreated water damage can cause several different types of property damage including: rotting of wood, mold, rusting of steel, and delaminating of materials such as plywood. Property water damage is a growing concern for property owners. The American Insurance Association reports that, "water damage claims have been growing faster than other components of homeowners insurance". If a property owner suspects water damage in their property it is important to call an Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) right away to assess any damage to your home or business.

Where can Water Damage Originate?

Water damage can occur from many different household sources. A washing machine overflow, a dishwasher leakage, clogged toilets, and broken, leaking pipes all can cause water damage. In fact, the EPA predicts that 13.7% of all water used in the home is from water leaks. A slight crack in a property owner's piping can become a huge problem later if left unfixed. A pipe inspection, once a year is recommended to prevent a potential financial catastrophe later on. If a property owner suspects a leak, they should immediately hire a restoration company.

Health Hazards

In addition to financial problems, untreated water damage can also cause major health complications. Water damage left unrepaired will eventually cause mold, which can pose a huge health risk for a property owner and their family. If they notice gradual discolorations that appear in their property, this may be the first sign of mold caused by leaking pipes, roof damage, siding damage, or ground and surface water. As a home or business owner, it is easy to ignore signs of mold. You may assume slight discoloration on your walls may be caused by normal household wear and tear. However, there is a chance that the discoloration is mold caused by untreated water damage. Mold can spread throughout a property and can cause the following symptoms: difficulty breathing, rashes, tiredness, nasal congestions, and headaches.

Restoring your Property

Different methods of restoration may be used to repair a property owner's home or business. This depends on the amount of water and the time the water has remained motionless. Water damage restoration can be performed by a number of different inexperienced individuals including: property management teams, building maintenance personal, or even the property owners themselves. However, it is recommended that a property owner hires an IICRC remediation company that can appropriately assess their water damage and draw up a repair plan to save their property from immediate and future damage.

An IIRC Remediation company such as First Choice Restoration of Philadelphia can provide the following services:

A. Sanitization of affected areas
B. Deodorization of affected areas
C. Structural Drying
D. Dehumidify rooms
E. Negative air scrubbing
F. Water removal
G. Mold Removal

Individuals interested in hiring an established water damage restoration company in the Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Camden County areas can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 1-800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 06/23/2016 -- Most restoration companies offer free consultations, as well as free property inspections, for home and business owners that have experienced damage from storm, water, mold, fire, and smoke. Owners are also encouraged to contact a licensed public adjuster to closely evaluate property damage if they are submitting an insurance claim. Along with your restoration company, a public adjuster will make certain that the insured will receive the entitlements included in their insurance policy when property damage occurs.

In an age where hurricanes, floods, and fire are part of everyday life, restoration companies can truly make the difference in rebuilding your life after a loss. One of the resources available to restoration companies in Montgomery County is the public adjuster—someone with inside knowledge in the insurance field that will be able to help with the monumental task of rebuilding after a crisis. Since public adjusters' work on a contingent fee, their services are completely free until their clients receive payment from their insurance company. Home and business owners can be assured that these experts will fight for what is deserved.

For home and business owners searching for restorations companies near Philadelphia, the experts are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, to cleanup your property from fire damage, flood damage, catastrophic damage, burst pipes, frozen pipes, storm damage, and roof leaks. Following a loss, property owners should avoid filing a claim until they have consulted a licensed restoration company and a public adjuster with the utmost familiarity with property damages and the insurance policies. First Choice Restoration, LLC is proud to provide their property damage expertise for anyone in need of a restoration company in NJ, PA, Delaware and Maryland.

When a property owner does not seek the guidance from a restoration company in Bucks County and surrounding areas, they will risk committing a number of mistakes that might result in their claim being denied. As a result, individuals might receive no payment at all, which prevents them from moving forward in the restoration process. Owners are also urged not to address the property damage to their home or business alone and should, instead, ask a public adjuster to help protect them from inaccurate compensation. First Choice Restoration, LLC will help all property owners with their damaged property throughout the sensitive process of filing a claim. Contact these highly trained, licensed, and IICRC professionals by calling 1-800-370-0770 or visiting their website. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicerestore.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 05/12/2016 -- The vast majority of people learn a great deal about their property insurance policy after there has been a devastating event— this is not the best time to have a crash course in coverage. At First Choice Restoration, we see many different insurance policies and water claims. Coverage varies from state to state and from one policy to another, we can share some of the following general guidelines.

If you live in an area that has a tendency to flood— not just near a lake, river or the ocean, but in a location that typically gets hit with major storms— you definitely should purchase flood insurance. Typically, home or business insurance policies do not cover loss by flood, which is the number one natural disaster in the country. Between 2007 and 2015, the average flood claim exceeded $47,000. Not something you would like to pay out of pocket!

What is the Difference Between Water and Flood Insurance Coverage?

Most homeowner or business insurance policies will cover damage to your home or business caused by a sudden and accidental water loss, such as wind-driven rain, burst pipe, overflow from a toilet, and melting snow. Water damage caused by inadequate maintenance to a roof and unrepaired leaks that occur over a long period of time will not be covered.

Flood insurance will cover the "general and temporary condition where two or more acres of normally dry land or two or more properties are inundated by water or mudflow." Commonly, flood occurs when hurricanes, broken levees, and a rapid accumulation of rainfall happens. The cost of flood insurance varies depending on the flood zone the building is in and the amount of insurance purchased. Flood insurance takes 30 days from the date of purchase to take effect. If you need higher limits then what is available to purchase from the National Flood Insurance Program, then you must purchase higher limits from an excess flood insurance carrier.

When your building floods, the water can severely damage your structure and personal property. Floodwater contains many contaminants and lots of mud. Carpeting, wallboard, appliances, and furniture can get ruined all at once, even with just a few inches of water. A deeper flood may damage more expensive systems, like: ducts, heater, air conditioner, electrical, private sewage, well systems, roofing, utilities, and the foundation.

The clean up task differs depending on the extent of the flood and the amount of property damage caused. Remediation companies work through the necessary tasks in order of importance.

The first priority is removing the standing water. Next comes the removal and disposal of water damaged building materials and personal property. The remediation company will carry out the appropriate cleaning procedures, mold and fungus inhibition treatments and electrical checks. Finally, drying equipment will be used to get moisture levels in the building back to normal.

Individuals interested in hiring an established flood clean up company in the Cherry Hill, NJ area can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 1-800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://firstchoicerestore.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Mold if left in a building for period of time, will be more costly to take care of over the long run.

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 04/11/2016 -- If good old hand scrubbing with bleach will not solve your mold problem, then it is time to call a licensed and insured mold remediation company. An Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) will uncover the source of the mold and remove harmful mold spores in your home or business. Since mold is a live fungus that can spread quickly, it must be removed sooner than later. Our certified mold experts will stop little mold problems from becoming big mold hassles quickly.

Why is mold growing in my building?

Mold is part of our natural environment. Mold in the outdoor breaks down dead organic matter such as dead trees, dead plants, and fallen leaves, but indoors, mold growth should be prevented. Mold replicates itself by means of tiny spores; the spores are invisible to the eye and move through indoor and outdoor air. Mold may begin growing indoors when mold spores land on surfaces that are moist. There are several types of mold, and all of them will need moisture to grow. Mold will slowly destroy personal and real property that it grows on. Stop damage to your building and furnishings by controlling moisture that will prevent mold growth.

Is testing for mold needed?

In most cases, if visible mold growth is present, sampling is unnecessary. Since no EPA or other federal limits have been set for mold or mold spores, sampling cannot be used to check a building's compliance with federal mold standards. Surface sampling may be useful to determine if an area has been adequately cleaned or remediated. Sampling for mold should be conducted by professionals who have specific experience in mold sampling protocols, sampling methods, and interpreting results. Sample analysis should follow analytical methods recommended by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), or other professional organizations.

Mold cleanup protocol.

Cleanup is usually beyond the normal home or business owner. An IICRC remediation company will draw up a mold remediation and removal plan that will completely rid your building of mold. Depending on many factors, mold remediation protocol plan differs greatly from case to case. Such factors include causes of mold contamination, locations of affected areas, and methods of containment.

Cleanup can be as simple as spraying and disinfecting drywall, or as complex as:
HVAC disinfection
Drywall, stud, and insulation removal
Cleaning personal belongings
HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtration
Soda blasting

Individuals interested in hiring an established mold remediation company in the Philadelphia, PA area can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 1-800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicerestore.com/

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Water Damage to a Home or Business Can Be a Devastating Event

Philadelphia, PA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/10/2016 -- Water damage to a home or business can be a devastating event. In fact, it is the number one damage claim made to insurance companies in the United States. Water damage, whether from storm or plumbing, must be remediated immediately. This is why it is important to hire a certified and licensed water cleanup company right after water destroys your property. First Choice Restoration, with offices in Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, offers their thoughts on rapid response to water building damage.

If building materials are exposed to water for an extended period of time, moisture will penetrate them deeply. Building materials that absorb water slowly have a tendency to release moisture slowly. The more water they absorb, the more time is necessary to dry the affected materials. Also, extended exposure to moisture will most likely permanently damage building materials that could have been saved if immediate response occurred.

Additionally, the extended presence of water in most environments can cause microbial growth that leads to significant health and safety hazards for occupants and workers. Therefore, excess water should be absorbed, drained, and pumped from the building immediately. Extraction is a critical component of structural drying since water that is not removed from the structure will need to be removed by evaporation that is a slower and more costly process. Repeatedly extracting water from the building is usually required as water seeps out of areas that are not accessible to the water technician.

Moving air rapidly across surfaces of wet building materials is effective during the initial drying process. Increasing the air temperature and using dehumidifiers in the building is necessary for rapid evaporation of water and will also decrease the humidity of the environment. Reducing the humidity will enhance the drying process by letting the air movers dry the building materials in a more efficient manner.

Always keep in mind, for the best possible results, mitigation procedures should begin as soon as possible following the initial water damage.

Individuals interested in hiring an established water remediation company in Philadelphia, PA can contact First Choice Restoration by visiting their website or by speaking with a customer service representative by calling 800-370-0770. Let First Choice Restoration, be your first choice!

About First Choice Restoration
First Choice Restoration is a water, mold, fire, and smoke remediation company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. The company also operates additional offices throughout other areas of Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, and Delaware. The company has been assisting homeowners and businesses with water, mold, fire, and smoke cleanup for over 40 years.

For more information, please visit http://www.firstchoicerestore.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm