How to Prevent Frozen Pipes
Bust pipes due to freezing are a major problem. Not only will it stop your heating and hot water, a leak or flood can also cause extensive damage to your property.
In winter, if pipes are not properly insulated then the water inside them can freeze.
There is water in your pipes even when they are not being used. When the water freezes it expands, this can put pressure on the pipes causing them to burst. Pressure can also be put on pipes if some of the water in the pipe freezes and forces unfrozen water further up the pipe. Pipes can also burst once the frozen water starts to thaw.
The chance of pipes bursting is impacted by how much water is in the pipes and the type, shape, age and condition of the pipes.
What can you do to prevent frozen pipes?
Insulate your pipes. To save on costs, you can do this yourself. You will need to purchase pipe lagging, tank jackets and tap covers.
All outside pipes will need to be insulated – this includes straight lengths of pipe, bends, valves and fittings.
You will also need to ensure pipes are insulated in the colder areas of your home such as garages, basements and lofts.
Tank jackets can be used to protect your water tanks and tap covers can be used to protect your taps.
If your property is going to be empty for long periods, turn off the water and open taps to drain the system. Just be sure to turn the taps off again once the system is empty.
What are the signs your pipes may be frozen?
Signs your pipes may be frozen are:
- Slow flushing toilets
- Slow draining sinks
- No water coming out of your taps
- Your boiler stops working
What should I do if you have a frozen pipe?
Locate the Frozen Pipe
Search outside and in cold areas of your property. Look for areas of pipe that are not insulated, cold to touch or covered in frost.
Finding which taps are not working or toilets not flushing may help you narrow down your search.
Thaw the Frozen Pipe
Firstly turn the water off using the stop cock. Thawing pipes needs to be done carefully, make sure taps are open so when the water melts it doesn’t cause pipes to burst. Warm the pipes using hot cloths, hot water bottles or hairdryers on a low setting. There are a lot of videos online that can take you through the process.
What should I do if I have a burst pipe?
There will be instances when the pipes burst before you even realise they have frozen.
If this happens you will need to:
- Turn off the water
- Drain what is left in the system by opening taps (turn them off again after)
- Turn the electricity off
- Soak up any water that you can
- Call your insurance company
- Call a flood damage cleaning company
Navig8 Restoration are one of the leading flood damage remediation and restoration companies. If you experience a flood or water damage in your property contact us today to speak to our helpful customer service team.
Flood Damage in the Home
Bathroom
Bathrooms are at a higher risk of becoming flooded, due to the volume of water traveling to and from this area of the house.
If plugs are put in and taps are left on and forgotten about, it can lead to disaster.
Flooding can be caused by burst pipes, due to faulty plumbing or blockages.
Bathrooms can also experience sewage back ups.
There are a lot of reasons why water damage can occur in a bathroom and not all are the result of a flood. Leaking pipes and damaged seals can result in small to large amounts of water damage. If this is not dealt with correctly or it cannot be seen, it can lead to mould growth and damage to building materials.
Kitchen and Utility Room
Similar to bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms are also at a higher risk of becoming flooded, due to the volume of water traveling to and from this area of the house.
There is also the possibility of a malfunction of machinery, as these rooms are often home to washing machines and dishwashers.
Basement
Flooded basements are extremely common as they are the lowest point in the home. Flooding in a basement can be caused by external flooding, a sewage back up, a water supply leak, unmaintained foundation or seepage through the walls and floor.
Could it be contaminated water?
With any flooding in the home it is important to identify the cause of the flood early on. If it is the result of a sewage back up then the water will be contaminated and it is important this is dealt with accordingly. Sewage water contains a number of viruses, bacteria and parasites that can make you very ill. The appropriate personal protective equipment would need to be worn.
When dealing with sewage water it is advisable to call in a professional sewage cleaning company.
What is a sewage back up?
When wastewater leaves your home, it is taken for granted that it will enter the sewage system and travel onwards until it reaches a treatment plant.
However, sometimes this doesn’t go to plan, resulting in a sewage back up into your home. The sewage can return to your home through toilets and plug holes.
Common causes of a sewage back up
There are many reasons why a sewage back can happen, the most common causes are:
Tree Roots
Tree roots are naturally drawn to water sources so they are commonly found near underground pipes. Tree roots can grow around the pipes or find their way into the pipes through small cracks, resulting in crushed or blocked pipes.
Faulty Plumbing
Sometimes issues with plumbing cans result in sewage being pushed back into your home.
Blocked Drains
Drains can become blocked when incorrect items are flushed away, most commonly sanitary towels, nappies and kitchen towels. Pipes are also commonly blocked with hardened fats, grease and hair.
Sewage back ups can also occur when large volumes of water enter the sewage system at speed, such as heavy rainfall. This can overwhelm the system causing sewage water to flow back up into the home.
It is vital to deal with signs of a problem with your sewage system quickly, in order to prevent this becoming a disaster. Some of these signs include a nasty ‘sewage’ smell, bubbling drains and slow draining water.
For more information on this and to find ways to mitigate your chances of a sewage back up, take a look at our article ‘Common Causes of Home Sewage Back Ups’.
What to do if you experience a flood?
- Block off the area.
- Turn off the water supply.
- Turn off the electricity, only if it is safe to do so.
- Keep the area well ventilated.
Speak to your insurers – insurance companies have different requirements when dealing with claims. Before you instruct any work to be done it is important to find out exactly what they will allow. Your insurance company will also advise what they require with regards to photos and proof of damage to support your claim.
Call in the professionals. It may be tempting to tackle the damage yourself. However, the water can travel to a lot of areas within the home, including under the floors and behind walls. If this is not dealt with correctly and dried thoroughly, it can lead to secondary damage, including damage to building materials and mould growth.
Why should you use Navig8 Restoration?
Navig8 Restoration will deal with the whole situation, including assisting you with insurance claims.
We offer a sewage cleaning service, which includes water extraction, full decontamination and thorough drying of the property.
We can use different advanced drying methods, which can often limit the amount of strip out work required.
We will not only remediate the issue, we will also carry out restoration works to get your property back to its condition, pre incident.
Call us today for more information on our flood and water damage clean up services.
Flood Warnings Explained
Flood Alert
What does it mean?
Flood Alert means that flooding is possible and to be prepared.
When is it used?
It is used between two days and two hours in advance of flooding.
What are the triggers?
A Flood Alert is triggered when forecasts indicate the following:
- Flooding from rivers may be possible.
- Intense rainfall for rivers that respond very rapidly.
- High tides, surges or strong winds.
What is the impact?
The expected impact for areas with a Flood Alert is flooding of fields, recreation lands, car parks, minor roads and farmland. Also spray or waves overtopping on the coast.
What is the advice given when a Flood Alert is issued?
- Check your flood plan and be prepared to act on it.
- Prepare a flood kit of essentials.
- Avoid walking, cycling or driving through flood water.
- Farmers to consider moving livestock and equipment to safety.
- Monitor information provided on the Environment Agency website.
- Speak to Floodline for up to date information.
Flood Warning
What does it mean?
Flood Warning means flooding is expected and immediate action is required.
When is it used?
It is used between one day and half an hour in advance of flooding.
What are the triggers?
A Flood Warning is triggered when heavy rainfall, which will cause flash flooding of rivers, is forecast. Or when high tides, coupled with strong winds occur.
What is the impact?
The expected impact for areas with a Flood Warning is flooding of homes and businesses. Flooding of rail infrastructure, roads and major tourist and recreational attractions. Also significant waves and spray on the coast.
What is the advice given when a Flood Warning is issued?
- Protect yourself and your family
- Move family, pets and others to safety.
- Move valuables to a safe place
- If it is safe to do so, turn off gas, electricity and water supplies.
- If you are experiencing a flash flood, get to higher ground immediately.
- Monitor information provided on the Environment Agency website.
- Speak to Floodline for up to date information.
Serious Flood Warning
What does it mean?
Serious Flood Warning means severe flood and danger to life.
When is it used?
Serious Flood Warning is used when flooding poses a significant risk to life or significant disruption to communities.
What are the triggers?
A Serious Flood Warning is triggered following:
- Actual flooding which poses significant risk to life and/or widespread disruption to communities.
- A breach in defence or failure of a barrier which is likely to result in significant risk to life.
What is the impact?
- Deep, fast flowing water which may contain debris.
- Potential collapse of buildings and structures.
- Communities may become isolated.
- Large numbers of evacuees are expected.
- Military support required.
What is the advice given when a Serious Flood Warning is issued?
- Stay in a safe place from which you can escape.
- Be ready to leave your home
- Monitor information provided on the Environment Agency website.
- Speak to Floodline for up to date information.
- Contact emergency services if you are in immediate danger.
What to do if you experience a flood?
These warnings are incredibly helpful to enable people to prepare for a flood. They can help limit the damage a flood can cause. It can allow people move valuable items to safety and ensure people and animals are kept safe.
However, they cannot prevent the flooding of homes and businesses.
If you experience flooding in your property it is likely that you will need to call in a professional water damage remediation company. They will ensure the property is thoroughly cleaned and dried to prevent any secondary damage from occurring.
Navig8 Restoration offer a comprehensive flood and water damage drying service. The team is available 24/7 to deal with emergencies and can provide support in preparing all of the information required by insurance companies.
If you have experienced flood or water damage call Navig8 Restoration today.
Source – The Environmental Agency Flood Warning Codes – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/flood-warnings-what-they-are-and-what-to-do
Burst Pipes in the Summer Months
Why do pipes burst in the summer?
During the summer months a combination of both the extreme heat and increase in demand for water can cause pipes to burst.
Extreme Heat
Throughout the summer we experience days of extreme heat. This can cause soil to dry and become loose, causing pipes to shift. The heat can also cause the pipes to expand and move.
Increase in Demand for Water
There is a greater increase in the demand for water during the summer months. This is due to people washing their cars, filling paddling pools, watering plants, the use of sprinkler systems and pressure washers.
Other common reasons that can cause pipes to burst
Frozen pipes
During winter months when the temperature drops it can cause water in your pipes to freeze. As it freezes it can cause the pipes to expand and burst. This isn’t always immediately obvious until the ice melts and escapes through the cracks in the pipes.
Tree Roots
Tree roots are a common reason why pipes get blocked and burst.
Tree roots are naturally drawn to water so can often be found near to external pipes. They can wrap themselves around the pipes, crushing or breaking them. They can also find their way through small cracks and gaps in the pipes and start growing inside the pipes. This can result in the pipes becoming blocked or excessive internal pressure causing them to burst.
Blocked pipes
There are numerous reasons why pipes can become blocked, including tree roots as mentioned above.
Some of the other reasons pipes can become blocked are:
Flushing items which should never be flushed – flushing sanitary products, nappies and paper towels are common reasons why pipes become blocked. These should always be disposed of in the correct manner and never flushed down the toilet.
Pouring cooking fats and grease down the drain – once these fats cool, they will solidify and block your pipes.
Rinsing hair down the drain – hair is another common reason why drains become blocked. There are a number of ways to reduce or prevent this, including installing plugs designed to stop the hair from being drained away or using a drain cover.
Hard Water
If you have hard water flowing through your pipes you may find that the inside becomes covered in a layer of limescale. This can cause blockages and have an impact on the flow of water. It can also weaken and corrode pipes causing them to burst.
Wear and Tear/Old Age
Pipes that are not regularly maintained and have become worn are much weaker and therefore more likely to burst, especially when combined with any of the above issues.
These issues can also cause sewage to back up into homes.
For more information on some of the reasons why sewage back ups into homes, take a look at our article ‘Common Causes Of Sewage Back Ups’
How to prevent burst pipes
If you notice an issue with your pipes, never ignore it. Always call a professional in to take a look, it will work out much cheaper than fixing the damage a burst pipe can cause.
Be mindful of your water usage. Increased water usage during the summer months is inevitable. However, you can make a difference by simply being mindful of this and reducing usage where possible. It is important to make everyone in your household aware of this too.
Insure your home against burst pipes. Check if your insurance covers burst pipes, if it doesn’t it might be worth looking to see if you can add it to your policy. However, it is important to be aware that insurance companies may not pay out if the burst pipes have not been properly maintained.
Signs that may indicate that you have a leaking or burst pipe
Increase in water bill – any unexpected increases in your water bill need to be investigated.
Damp – damp patches in your home, on floors, ceilings and walls may indicate a leak or burst pipe.
Discolored water – discolored water coming from your taps may indicate there is rust, resulting from a leak in your pipes.
Strange sounds – any change in sounds when using water needs to be investigated as these could be a result of an issue with your pipes. These include thumping, whooshing and hissing sounds.
What to do if you experience a burst pipe
- Turn off the water supply as soon as you can.
- Turn off the electricity, but only if it is safe to do so.
- Call your insurance company. They will be able to confirm if your policy covers burst pipes and advise you on the next step to take in order to claim.
- Call a professional water damage cleaning company.
Navig8 Restoration is a professional water damage cleaning company. We are experts in water damage remediation and restoration.
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to deal with emergencies. We can also provide you with all the required information and photos to support an insurance claim.
Our technicians are often highly praised for how professional and considerate they are, which is especially important when dealing with this type of potentially stressful situation.
House Fire – The Dangers That Remain Once The Flames Are Out
Dangers of a house fire
Fires in a home can range from a small fire contained to one area, to one that quickly spreads throughout the property.
A home can quickly become uninhabitable following a fire, as there can be numerous dangers present that may not always be obvious.
Flames
The immediate danger is the fire itself. If there is a fire, the building should be evacuated immediately. Not being able to escape a fire can result in the heat causing damage to body tissues and organs and even death. The flames also produce smoke and soot.
Smoke and Soot
The leading cause of death from a house fire is not from the flames but from the smoke and soot that are created. These are extremely harmful to your health and to your building.
Smoke inhalation can cause confusion and disorientation which can be incredibly dangerous if you are trying to get out of a building which is on fire.
Just a few breaths of toxic smoke can cause you to become unconscious.
Smoke contains carbon monoxide and other poisonous gasses, these are dependent on the materials that are burning. Materials which can produce toxic smoke include carpets, wool, plastic, foam, and wood. Materials containing asbestos are also incredibly dangerous.
During and after a fire, smoke can also become trapped inside walls and under floors as well as within porous materials in the building. Unless they are cleaned correctly they can be released later on. It is also important to be aware that smoke can linger for several days after the fire has been put out.
Inhaling or ingesting smoke and soot can have a detrimental effect on the health of anybody, but more so for children, the elderly and those with underlying health conditions.
These are some of the negative impacts smoke and soot can have on your health:
Respiratory Problems – when smoke and tiny soot particles are inhaled, it can cause airways to become blocked causing a reduction in the delivery of oxygen to body tissues and organs, resulting in asphyxiation. It can cause lung irritation, coughing, shortness of breath, sore throat, headaches and as previously mentioned, confusion.
Skin – soot and smoke can cause severe skin irritation, causing skin to become itchy, dry and incredibly sore.
Eyes – soot and smoke can cause severe eye irritation, causing eyes to sting and become dry, itchy, red and sore.
Fire Damage
The fire itself can damage all kinds of materials and can weaken the structure of the building. This includes walls, ceilings and floors, causing the building to collapse, making it incredibly unsafe. There is also a risk of falling debris.
Water Damage
Once the fire has been extinguished, you are left with the additional damage caused by water. Whilst a fire is being extinguished, the main concern will be getting the flames put out as quickly as possible, not what damage the water could potentially cause.
Water can then get under floors and in wall cavities causing wood to rot and weaken materials, making the building unsafe.
Trapped water can also lead to secondary damage, including mould which can cause a lot of health issues.
Common causes of house fires
House fires can start for a number of reasons:
Naked Flames – Leaving candles unattended or not putting out cigarettes can quickly lead to a fire in the home. Falling asleep whilst these items are alight, especially cigarettes, can quickly become dangerous.
Kitchen – this is one of the most common areas for a fire in the home to start. Leaving cooking unattended or forgetting to turn equipment off or accidentally turning it on could potentially lead to a fire. As can placing flammable items near to naked flames.
Appliances and Equipment – Faulty appliances can lead to fires in the home. A lot of homes are now set up for electrics to trip if there is a problem, however electrical fires still start. There have been a number of issues in the news of faulty washing machines and tumble dryers causing fires in the home.
Fire Damage Prevention and Damage Limitation Tips
As fires can be started in a variety of ways, it would be impossible to prevent all scenarios from happening, but there are things you can do to at least limit the damage.
Smoke Alarm – It is vital to ensure your smoke alarm is regularly tested and the batteries replaced. It is recommended that the smoke alarm is tested every week and batteries are replaced once a year. This will alert you quickly to a fire in your home, meaning you can get everybody out and deal with the fire quickly.
Photos and other precious items and information – Photos and documents can now be stored on electronic devices so if physical copies are damaged you can still access them online. If you have items that cannot be stored online or replaced, it might be worth thinking about how you could store them in order to protect them, should a fire happen.
Be aware and make others aware of safe practices when cooking – Make sure everyone in your home knows how to use cooking equipment correctly and that flammable items are not put near to naked flames. Also make sure cooking is never left unattended.
Candles – make sure candles are not left unattended and any matches are completely extinguished before being thrown away.
Smoking – if people are smoking in a home make sure cigarettes are always extinguished correctly and safely. Do not smoke in bed and take care if you are smoking when tired.
Don’t leave appliances on overnight or when you are out – if for any reason you have a faulty appliance which does catch alight, it can be dealt with a lot more quickly if you are awake and at home.
Fire Damage Restoration Company
Once the relevant authorities have given permission to enter a property it may be tempting to try and assess the damage yourself. However due to the above dangers, which are often hidden, it is important that a professional fire damage cleaning company is instructed to assess the damage.
They will follow all safety precautions and will have expert knowledge on how to detect the level of fire damage and water damage. This will enable them to produce a remediation plan, clearly showing what damage has been caused and what work needs to be completed in order to get the property back to the condition it was before.
All damaged or contaminated materials will be safely disposed of and all other materials will be thoroughly cleaned to ensure no secondary damage will occur and they don’t pose a health risk.
Advanced drying methods will also be used to ensure the property is completely dried out, again ensuring that no secondary damage will occur.
Structural damage will be repaired and appropriate remedial work will be carried out.
Fire damage cleaning companies can also liaise with insurance companies on your behalf and assist you in providing documentation and photos to support any claims.
If you would like to speak to Navig8 Restoration about our fire damage cleaning service, give us a call today on 0800 285 1447.
Quick Guide to Flood and Water Damage Remediation
If you experience water or flood damage, there are steps you can take to get the situation under control and prevent further damage to your property. Take a look at our useful guide to flood and water damage remediation to protect your property in the event of a flood.
Your guide to water and damage remediation
If you act quickly, you stand a good chance of limiting the level of damage. We’ve outlined some of the steps you can take to begin flood damage repair below.
Act quickly
The first thing to do in the event of flood or water damage is to act quickly. If you take swift action, you can prevent the water damage from getting worse and bring in the relevant people to carry out repairs.
It’s important to be vigilant about severe weather warnings and to take prompt action if you’ve been told your home is at an immediate risk of a flood.
Protect yourself and your belongings
The safety of you, your family or your employees is the most important thing when dealing with a flood. If you’re faced with an emergency situation or someone has been injured, contact the emergency services on 999.
The next step is to turn off the electricity if it is safe to do so. If you are unable to access your electricity mains, contact an electrician and don’t re-enter the property until the power has been turned off.
If you can, try to move your wooden or perishable furniture away from the floor. You may need to move any items that are at risk to a higher position, or take them upstairs.
When re-entering your home, wear protective clothing and use gloves. The water may be contaminated, which could be harmful to your health.
Contact your insurance company
Get in touch with your insurance company to inform them of the flood. They will be able to send someone out to assess the damage and determine if your policy will cover it.
Take photos and make a list of the items that have been damaged, as well as their value. This will help when it comes to making your claim.
Begin flood drying immediately
Take steps to start flood damage repair. You may need to move items out of the way to help you dry flooring and even remove your floors to be able to dry out your property thoroughly. Laminate and wooden flooring can become damaged permanently, making it vital that you start the drying process as soon as possible.
If the flooding is extensive, you should seek the services of a water damage remediation specialist to help you get your property back in order.
Return to your home or business when it’s safe to do so
You should only return to your home or business when it is safe to do so. Your insurance company or water damage restoration specialist will be able to advise you about returning to your home safely.
Flooding and your insurance
When it comes to dealing with flooding, it is not always clear who you should contact first – your insurance company or a water damage specialist?
Making contact with the flood damage company first is beneficial for several reasons. They’ll be able to assess the level of damage, which could turn out to be more affordable to fix than you realise. Making a claim through your insurance will increase your premium, and you may wish to avoid this.
A water damage company will also be able to provide advice and guidance during a stressful time. Flood damage is their expertise, and it can be reassuring to have someone friendly and knowledgeable guide you through the process.
While your insurance company may recommend a preferred flood specialist, you might want to explore other options to make sure you’re happy and comfortable with what’s happening.
Advanced Drying Methods
Getting your property dry is vital for preventing secondary damage. There are some proven methods of flood drying that are effective at getting the job done quickly.
You’ll need a damp and moisture survey to inspect your entire property for signs of damp and mould, including the ones that aren’t as obvious as you’d expect. The survey will help determine which drying methods should be used to restore your property. Some of the most common types of drying methods include:
- Suction Drying
- Injection Drying
- Floor Joist Drying
- Plastic Enclosure Drying
- Room Dehumidification
- Construction Dehumidification
For more information on these advanced drying methods, take a look at our article here which goes into more detail about each drying methods mentioned.
The type of drying method used will depend on the level of damage, your property type and the construction of your property. Most methods use a Corroventa Supervision Remote Monitoring system to enable the drying process to take place. This reduces the number of people needed on-site, helping to save customers time and money. At Navig8 Restoration, we provide our customers with access to this system to ensure full transparency on the drying process.
If you experience flood or water damage, you will want fast solutions to make sure you can quickly re enter your home or business and avoid high costs and extensive damage. With Navig8 Restoration, you will benefit from our expertise and knowledge of all aspects of water damage remediation.
Contact the Navig8 Restoration today on 0800 285 1447
How to protect your home or business from water damage
What are the types of water damage?
As previously mentioned, there are many different types of water damage that a property may experience. Some are caused by poorly maintained plumbing in your property, whilst others are as a result of natural occurrences that cannot be stopped but can be protected against.
A flood caused by weather, such as heavy rain causing drains to overflow or a river bursting its banks, can be extreme causes of flooding. More everyday reasons include burst water tanks and leaking or burst water pipes. You may also experience sewage backup in a toilet or sink. All of these forms of flooding can cause serious damage to your property.
If you are concerned about any water damage within your property, give Navig8 Restoration a call today on 0800 285 1447.
Building insurance
One of the most important parts of owning or renting a home or business is having building insurance. This can help to protect you in a number of different scenarios, with flooding being just one of these. Building insurance will cover the cost of water damage caused to your property’s structure.
There are some situations that are generally covered under a building insurance policy, such as loss or damage caused by fire, vandalism, storms, theft, floods, and natural disasters such as earthquakes – though this will depend largely on your provider. The amount of cover you receive will also vary.
Make sure that you have building insurance that covers everything you need and check your insurance policy before damage occurs in order to ensure you are fully covered. If you don’t, you could be left with a big bill after a flood or similar event.
How can I mitigate or prevent water damage?
Locate stopcocks
Floods can happen at any time and for many reasons, so knowing how to stop the flow of water quickly is vital. A stopcock controls the flow of water to your home or business, so knowing where yours is, is very important. In most homes, these are under the kitchen sink, but they may be in different locations – so double check this. You should also test your stopcock to ensure that it is working. This can prevent you from finding a faulty stopcock at the worst moment and being unable to stop the flow of water.
Check pipes
Your pipes are the heart of your plumbing system, so you should make sure to check them regularly. If you notice a noise in your walls (normally a knocking noise – known as a water hammer) or a shrill singing sound, then this can point to damaged pipes. Other indicators might be water not flowing as strongly. If your pipes are not performing as normal, then getting a professional plumber to check them is a good idea. You can, of course, check your own pipes to see if they are cracked or leaking, which will need to be remedied by a professiona. This will help to prevent flooding, as well as preventing additional pressure on the rest of your pipework and plumbing system.
Toilets and sinks
One major cause of plumbing issues that lead to flooding can be as simple as backed up toilets and sinks. Whether you are at home or at work, being careful with how you use your toilets and sinks can help to prevent this – and this should also be applied to shower and bath drains.
Toilets should only ever be used for organic waste and a reasonable amount of toilet paper. For example, you should never flush sanitary products, an excess of toilet paper or makeup remover wipes down your toilet.
Similarly, sinks should not be used for disposing of food or cooking oil and grease. These can lead to a build up in your pipes, and in extreme circumstances can cause sewage back up further down the plumbing system. This can lead to water not being able to move through your pipes and can cause flooding very quickly – so caution exercised ahead of time is the best prevention.
How can I prevent frozen pipes?
Frozen pipes are a common occurrence in winter. You may notice pipes have frozen if there is no water coming from your faucets, there is frost on the outside of the pipes, or you notice an unpleasant smell coming from your drains even with no other notable signs. Dropping temperatures can cause water to freeze inside your pipes – as water freezes, it can expand, causing the pipes to crack and burst.
While you cannot prevent cold weather from occurring, you can make sure that your pipes have been properly laid and insulated. This can help to project them from dropped temperatures. You should also keep your heating on even if you are away from your home or business, as keeping your heating on low keeps your pipes warm enough to prevent the water from freezing.
Another easy way to prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting is turning your taps on regularly throughout the day – this keeps the water moving rather than standing and becoming frozen in low temperatures.
What about flooded basements?
Having a basement in your property can be a great place for storage or even converting into a usable room. However, basements are prone to flooding as they are below your property. Common causes of basement flooding can be flash flooding and groundwater flooding. Other causes may include your home or business having poor drainage overall, causing the water to run to the lowest point of the property. Sewage backups often impact basements first.
In order to prevent basement flooding as much as possible, it is important to check your foundation. You will be able to find out if any cracks are present and have them repaired. You should also clean your roof gutters regularly in order to make sure that they do not overflow in bad weather. It may also be advisable to speak to a plumber about installing a sump pump to reduce the risk of flooding even further. Preventing flooding in a basement is easier than it is to clean up afterwards, so checking these elements of your basement can save you a lot of hassle and money in the future.
Flooding may not always be preventable, however with these considerations in mind, you can reduce the chances of both the occurrence and the damage if flooding occurs. If you need support with water damage restoration, Navig8 Restoration can help. We are experts in water damage remediation and can support you in getting your home or business back to its best after even significant water damage, no matter the cause. Get in touch to find out how we can help you.
If you are concerned about any water damage within your property, give Navig8 Restoration a call today on 0800 285 1447.
Damp and Mould Issues in Rental Properties
What causes damp and mould growth?
There are different types of damp in residential properties.
Here are the most common:
Condensation Damp
Condensation damp is the most common type of damp in properties. When warm moist air hits a cold surface, water drops are formed, this is called condensation.
Condensation damp can be caused by poor ventilation, inadequate heating, lack of insulation or combination of these.
Penetrating Damp
Penetrating damp is where water travels through the fabric of a building from the outside. Through walls, ceiling and roofs.
Rising Damp
Rising damp is more common in older buildings. It is caused when water travels up from the ground, through the floor and walls.
Any area of damp in the home provides conditions for mould to grow. It is sometimes the case, that you are only made aware of a damp issue when you spot mould growth.
Damp and mould need to be dealt with quickly, as it can soon lead to bigger issues. Living in a home with damp and mould can cause problems to the health of those living in the property. It can also become incredibly stressful, which can have an impact on your mental health.
Whose responsibility is it?
It is not always clear what the cause of damp and mould growth is in a property. This can lead to a difference in opinion about who should fix it.
It is often a good idea to call in a professional to take a look and identify the causation. Navig8 Restoration provides comprehensive damp and moisture surveys. These surveys provide details on the level of damp and the areas affected. They will also identify the cause and provide a solution to rectify the problem.
Tenants
It is a tenant’s responsibility to ensure the property is well ventilated and well heated. This will help prevent condensation damp.
- Windows need to be opened where possible.
- Extractor fans should be used in kitchens and bathrooms, during and after use.
- Where possible, clothes shouldn’t be hung up to dry in the home as the water has nowhere to escape to and will be absorbed into walls and furniture.
- It is advisable to keep heating on constantly at a lower temperature during the colder months. As opposed to having the heating going on and off throughout the day.
Our article How to prevent condensation, damp and mould in your home, gives more helpful information on steps you can take.
Landlords
Landlords are responsible for the exterior of the property, water supply and plumbing. If damp is caused by one or more of the following it is likely the landlord’s responsibility to fix.
- Broken, damaged or missing roof tiles.
- Cracks in the walls.
- Broken/blocked gutters.
- Cracked or unsecure windows.
- Leaking pipes.
- Faulty plumbing in need of repair.
What steps should I take?
Ideally, speak to your landlord or letting agent as soon as you can see an issue. It’s much easier and usually cheaper to deal with any issues early on. It is also much better for your health to get these issues resolved quickly.
If it’s obvious why it is damp then that is great news. As it should be easier to understand how it can be dealt with and whose responsibility it is to deal with it.
If it isn’t clear, you can call in a water damage remediation company, for a professional opinion.
If the damp and mould is a result of your actions, then take appropriate steps to correct any damage and prevent any further issues.
From the very beginning, keep a record of all communication. Take photos of any damage in the property. It is also helpful to keep any records to support any health conditions that are a result of the damp and mould. Ensure that all correspondence is in writing.
If you can’t come to an agreement with your landlord, then it can turn into a lengthy process.
You do, however, have individuals and organisations who you can turn to next:
- You can speak to citizens’ advice.
- You can speak to your local councillor or MP.
- You can ask environmental health to inspect your home.
- You can take your complaint to the housing ombudsman.
- As a final resort, you could take legal action and potentially take your landlord to court.
What action will a professional water damage remediation company take?
Water damage remediation companies, such as the Navig8 Restoration, can complete a number of services relating to damp and mould.
As mentioned earlier, a damp and moisture survey can be completed to identify the cause of the damp and moisture. The survey will also be able to locate the areas affected and the level of moisture. More importantly, it will provide a solution to rectify the problem.
Navig8 Restoration provides a comprehensive mould remediation service. All areas affected will be professionally cleaned and tests taken before and after to validate the work completed.
Navig8 Restoration have a number of advanced drying methods that can be used to thoroughly dry out a building. These drying methods can often be used without the need for any major strip out works.
If you would like some more information regarding these services, call Navig8 Restoration today.
*Disclaimer – the information provided in this article is general information and not legal advice.
If you are concerned about any water damage within your property, give Navig8 Restoration a call today on 02033896189.
Untreated Sewage Being Dumped into UK Seas
There have been a number of news reports recently on the level of raw sewage being dumped in our seas. These reports include a number of residents and visitors to seaside towns in Kent being warned not to go in the sea.
Most recently MPs voted against putting a legal duty on water firms to reduce the level of raw sewage being pumped into our rivers and seas.
This has angered many members of the public who have taken to social media to vent their anger at their MPs for this decision.
High levels of raw sewage being pumped into the sea affects the quality of the water. It can cause people who come into contact with the water or even ingest it to become very ill. It also has a detrimental impact on the aquatic ecosystems.
Raw sewage, however, can legally be diverted to rivers and seas under exceptional circumstances. Yet, an article in the BBC News claimed raw sewage was discharged into rivers a colossal 400,000 times in 2020.
So when can raw sewage water be pumped into the sea?
Some releases of untreated sewage are legal under environmental law. During heavy rainfall sewage is pumped out of the sewer into rivers and seas using combined sewage overflows. This is done to prevent sewage from backing up into peoples homes, businesses and onto roads.
The combined sewage system in England is made up of hundreds of thousands of kilometres of sewers. It is called a combined sewage system, as clean rainwater and waste water from toilets, bathrooms and kitchens travel through the same pipes to a treatment plant.
Combined sewage overflows were developed as overflow valves, with the ability to be opened to direct the sewage into rivers and seas to prevent the sewage system from being overwhelmed.
Water companies are required to report any discharges to the The Environment Agency so they can be monitored. Local councils are also made aware of any discharges and related issues so they can warn the public if necessary.
What is a sewage backup?
It is simply when the sewage that is flushed or drained away from your home flows back into your home. There are a number of reasons as sewage backup can occur, including tree roots growing in and around pipes and blocked pipes – more information on these can be found in our blog post ‘Common causes of home sewage back ups.’
One of the reasons that can cause a sewage back up is when large volumes of water enter the sewage system rapidly. The volume of water can overwhelm the system preventing it from flowing as it should to the treatment plant.
It can be incredibly distressing for a homeowner to experience a sewage back up. It is not only the water damage they have to deal with, it’s also the fact the water is highly contaminated. It can be harmful to your health and often materials that have come into contact with sewage water will need to be disposed of and cannot simply be dried out.
If a home experiences a sewage back up a professional cleaning company will need to be hired to carry out a sewage cleanup.
Why is sewage being dumped illegally?
In recent years water companies have been taken to court and prosecuted for the illegal dumping of sewage in our rivers and seas.
It has been reported that the reason they are doing this is because it is a cheaper alternative to sending the waste to a treatment plant.
It is a requirement of water companies to report any unauthorised discharges into the sea. However, many go unreported or unprosecuted.
The Environmental Agency has been reviewing storm overflows to identify those that have been used in dry weather conditions or have not been compliant with regulations. They should only be used during heavy rainfall to prevent sewage backing up into homes and businesses.
What happens at a treatment plant?
Ideally when wastewater enters the sewage system it travels onwards to a treatment plant.
There are 7 steps to the treatment of sewage water to make it safe to be returned to rivers and seas.
- Waste water travels to treatment plant
Waste water is flushed or drained away from homes and businesses. It enters the sewage system and travels to a treatment plant.
- Screening
Large items are removed along with items that should never be flushed, such as sanitary items and wet wipes. Grit is also removed at this stage.
- Primary Treatment
At this stage the wastewater still contains solid waste. The water is pumped into settlement tanks where the solids sink to the bottom and form a sludge. The sludge is then pumped out to be processed.
- Secondary Treatment
Smaller sludge is removed at this stage along with harmful bacteria.
- Final Treatment
Any remaining bacteria is removed.
- Create renewable energy
Most of the sludge is recycled and used by farmers as fertiliser. It is also used to generate renewable energy. The sludge is heated to create biogas which in turn creates heat and electricity. Dry sludge is also cut into blocks so it can be burnt to generate heat. The heat is captured to make electricity.
- Water is returned to our rivers and seas
Once the water has been through the whole treatment it is now safe to be returned to our rivers and seas.
If you experience a sewage backup into your home or business, call the Navig8 Restoration. Navig8 Restoration are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to deal with emergencies.
How to Prevent Condensation, Damp and Mould in your Home
Damp and mould caused by condensation
Condensation in the home is a common issue. If a home has high humidity levels or when warm air hits a cold surface, condensation will form. If the condensation isn’t removed it can lead to damp and mould growth.
In this article we will explore some of the things you can do to reduce condensation in your home. It is important to note, however, that damp and mould can be caused by a number of different reasons. If you have an underlying issue, such as leaking pipes or rising damp then it is important you seek advice from professionals.
Why is mould harmful?
Mould is a microscopic fungus which grows in damp and poorly ventilated areas. If mould spores are touched or inhaled they can be harmful to your health.
Mould can affect your immune system. It can cause respiratory problems, respiratory infections, allergies and asthma.
It is more dangerous for the very young, the elderly, those with underlying health conditions and weakened immune systems.
Further information from the NHS on how mould can affect your health can be found here.
Signs which may indicate you have a problem in your home
- A musty smell
- Peeling paint and wallpaper
- Dark, damp patches on the walls
- Walls, floors and ceilings that feel cold or wet
- Excessive condensation on windows
- Mould growth on walls, floors and ceilings
Tips on how to reduce condensation in your property
Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate
Our top tip is to ensure your home is well ventilated. Open a window or door during the day to allow moisture to escape.
Washing machines and tumble dryers
Always ensure washing machines and tumble dryers are installed correctly and are properly ventilated.
Drying clothes indoors
During winter months or in homes with no outdoor space, there is sometimes no choice but to dry clothes indoors. If you need to do this, ensure the room you dry the clothes in is well ventilated. So enables the moisture released into the air to escape from the room.
Bathroom extractor fan
Ensure your bathroom extractor fan is turned on when you bathe or shower. Keep the extractor fan on for at least 10 minutes after you have finished. Keep the door closed to prevent moisture from travelling through your home. If you do not have an extractor fan fitted, ensure a window is left open to help clear the air.
Kitchen extractor fan
Ensure your kitchen extractor fan is turned on when you are cooking and for at least 10 minutes after. It is also important to check it has been installed and vented correctly. If you do not have an extractor fan, open a window or a door to help clear the air.
Fish Tanks
Ensure your fish tank is covered with a lid to prevent it from creating unwanted moisture in your home.
Plants can contribute to excess moisture in your home
Whilst they have a lot of benefits, they can contribute to excessive moisture in your home. You may want to consider if too many plants in your home are adding to the issue.
Remove condensation
If you can see condensation has settled on walls and windows, ensure it is wiped away as quickly as possible.
Ensure wardrobes and cupboards are not overfilled
Trapped warm air with no ventilation can cause damp and mould growth.
Be mindful of where furniture is positioned
Do not push furniture up against walls as this prevents air from being able to move around it. Also, rooms crammed with contents can prevent air movement, causing damp air to become trapped. This is the reason why sometimes when furniture is moved, a build up of mould can be found behind it.
Continuous central heating
Instead of having your heating on a timer, it is more practical to have it on continuously. We would suggest using a lower temperature.
Install double glazing and loft and wall insulation
This will help prevent air from escaping and keep walls and other surfaces in your home at a higher temperature.
Speak to a professional
Are you concerned about condensation, damp or mould in your property? Do you feel that the tips above are not enough to help with the problem? We would suggest calling a professional to further investigate other causations. Navig8 Restoration provides comprehensive damp and moisture surveys and mould remediation services.
Navig8 Restoration has recently dealt with mould remediation in a London apartment. Details of this can be found in our recent case study. As well as remediating the mould, Navig8 Restoration also identified reasons why the apartment had excessive moisture.
If you have any concerns about excess moisture in your home call us today on 0800 285 1447