Flood Damage in the Home

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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.

Burst Pipes in the Summer Months

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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

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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

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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

Damp and Mould Issues in Rental Properties

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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.

The Effects of Water Damage

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In this article we will take a look at some of the damage water can cause. Highlighting why it is important to deal with water damage quickly and the steps you can take to prevent or mitigate the damage.

The impact on people’s health

One of the most devastating effects that water damage can have is its impact on people’s health. Buildings and materials can be repaired and replaced, however people cannot. That’s not to say that if you have a leaking pipe then you and the people around you will suddenly become very ill. It does mean, however, that if water damage is not dealt with immediately and effectively it can quickly provide ideal conditions for the growth of mould, bacteria and parasites. Which can all have a detrimental effect on your health.

How quickly does mould grow? 

Mould can grow on a damp surface within 24 to 48 hours, the rate at which it grows is dependent on the surrounding environment. In warm conditions with little ventilation, mould can grow very quickly and increase at a rapid rate. If you discover mould, removing it is not as simple as giving it a quick clean with a household cleaner, as there is so much that cannot be seen by the naked eye. A professional cleaning company, like Navig8 Restoration, will be able to thoroughly clean the area and they are equipped with the tools to test for any mould spores still present.

One of the most common effects on people’s health are gastrointestinal infections, with symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. People may also experience a stuffy nose, wheezing, sore throat and eye and skin problems. Whilst none of these are necessarily life threatening, for the very young, elderly or those with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems, it can have a much more severe impact on their health.

There is greater risk if the water that has caused the damage was already contaminated, from a sewage back up for example. The type of water can be classed under 3 different categories.

Types of water

Clean water – water that is free from pathogens and bacteria, such as water from burst pipes or rainwater. Like any water, it can cause damage to your building. It is unlikely to cause any health issues if it is dealt with quickly. However, if clean water isn’t dealt with quickly, over time bacteria can grow making it a health hazard.

Grey water – wastewater that contains bacteria but has not been contaminated with faecal matter. This water can be harmful to both your health and your building.

Black water – water that contains raw sewage. This water is incredibly harmful to your health and your building.

Our blog post The dangers that lurk in sewage water gives further information on all of the nasty viruses, parasites and bacteria that can be found in sewage water.

Structural damage to buildings

One case of water damage can be drastically different to another. They can vary from the mild damage caused by a small leak to the substantial level of damage that can be caused by a large ingress of water into a property, such as a burst water tank.

Water, if it is left for long enough, can soak into virtually any material, including all types of flooring, skirting boards, stud walls, beams and joists. It will cause the materials to swell and warp or rot. Some of the damage can happen very quickly.

If materials that form the structure of your property become damaged it can impact the structural integrity of the building and can be very dangerous.

Navig8 Restoration can apply various types of advanced drying methods to deal with different types of water damage. These methods allow them to dry out wall cavities and under floors, limiting the amount of strip out works required. Our blog post Advanced Drying Methods Explained gives information on how each method is applied.

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Damage to fixtures, fittings and personal items

Water can cause damage to the fixtures and fittings within your home, quickly making them unsalvageable, especially if the water is contaminated. Most items that come into contact with sewage water will need to be safely disposed of or taken for specialist cleaning. 

Water can damage personal items such as important documents and photos within seconds.

Electrical damage

Water and electricity can be a deadly combination, in the event of an obvious ingress of water it is important to ensure your electricity is turned off, if it is safe to do so.

Water can cause damage to your electrical system, resulting in total loss of power or damage to the wiring. Damaged wiring can cause power surges which can damage any appliances that are plugged in.

How to help prevent or mitigate water damage in your property

As well as the impact water damage can have on your health and building, a history of water damage to a property can quickly devalue it.

It’s important to regularly maintain your property to help to prevent problems at a later date. There are many ways in which you can protect your home from water damage. Here are some of them:

• Regularly inspect and repair broken roof tiles or guttering. Gutters should be cleaned frequently to help prevent any blockages.

• Any leaks in your property, however small, should be dealt with quickly. If you are unsure how to fix them then call in a plumber to ensure the work is done correctly.

• Take note of any strange odours in your home. This could be the result of blocked pipes or water that has become trapped and turned stagnant, causing materials to rot or mould and bacteria to grow.

• Keep an eye out for signs of water damage, such as damp patches, water stains or water rings. Water stains and rings show there has been a leak or an ingress of water which has dried out and left a stain. It could be that the problem has resolved itself, however it is advisable to get a professional in to understand what the issue was and if there is any damage other than the stains that needs to be repaired.

At Navig8 Restoration we carry out comprehensive Damp and Moisture Surveys. These identify the level of damp and moisture, what areas have been affected, what the cause is and how to rectify the damage.

If you are concerned about any water damage within your property, give Navig8 Restoration a call today on 0800 285 1447.

Advanced Drying Methods Explained

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In this article we will look at how damp and moisture levels can be identified. As well as state of the art drying methods which can be used to dry out a building. These can help keep costs to a minimum by reducing the amount of strip out works required. These methods can therefore also reduce the amount of time it takes to dry the building.

There are many reasons why a building can experience a flood, such as a sewage back up, external ingress of water or burst pipes and water tanks. When a building is flooded, the water often finds its way under the floors and into wall cavities. The damage this can cause may require major strip out works to be carried out. However by using advanced drying methods, the likelihood of strip out works being required can be significantly reduced.

Water finding its way into wall cavities and under floors can mean the level of water damage can be unclear on first inspection. Trapped moisture can rot building materials and cause mould which can cause devastating damage to the structure of a building. A simple solution to understand the level of damp and moisture within a building is a damp and moisture survey.

What is a Damp and Moisture Survey?

A Damp and Moisture Survey can be really useful to check for damp and moisture which may not be obvious. It is used to determine all areas that are affected. A full internal and external inspection is carried out, this will be non intrusive, unless otherwise requested.

During the survey, moisture meters, thermal cameras and drones are used. As well as salt testing kits, calcium carbide testers and air and surface sampling for mould. These will all help identify the damp, moisture and mould levels.

A detailed report is produced at the end of the survey along with a solution to deal with the damp and moisture in the building.

At Navig8 Restoration, we offer a comprehensive Damp and Moisture Survey. We also have years of knowledge and experience to allow us to expertly apply different advanced drying methods. Advanced drying methods include Suction Drying, Injection Drying, Flood Joist Drying, Plastic Enclosure Drying, Room Dehumidification and Construction Dehumidification. These methods can be used alone or in combination to thoroughly dry out a residential or commercial property of any size.

What is Suction Drying?

This is usually the first method of drying used when drying a building. Firstly, water is sucked out of a void, whether that is under the floor or in the wall cavities. A dehumidifier is then used to dry the air in a room. That air is then forced via a hose into the walls and floors through holes drilled specifically for this purpose. The damp air is then sucked out of the construction and exits through the room via a turbine.

Suction drying has the added benefit of a filter which prevents dirt particles from being sucked into the machine along with the damp air.

What is Injection Drying?

Injection Drying, also known as Pressure Drying is a simple and effective drying method. Warm, dry air is forced into construction layers through holes drilled into the construction. This warm dry air thoroughly dries all materials and the damp air is forced back into the room which is sucked into a dehumidifier and dried.

What is Floor Joist Drying?

As the name would suggest, this method is used to dry insulation in floor joists, as well as stud wall and cavities. Large quantities of dry air are produced using a pressure fan and a dehumidifier. This air is forced into the construction through hoses drying the entire framework.

What is Plastic Enclosure Drying?

Plastic Enclosure Drying is often used to speed up the drying process. It allows you to target key areas that have experienced water damage. The surface is wrapped in plastic sheets and a dehumidifier is used to blow dry air under the plastic sheet. Warm air can also be used to speed up the drying process even further.

What is Room Dehumidification?

Room Dehumidification is used to quickly dry individual rooms which have experienced water damage.

This method can be used before some of the other more complex methods.

A dehumidifier is used to blow dry air into the room, drying all surfaces and removing any excess moisture. Care is taken to protect sensitive materials and objects. 

What is Construction Dehumidification?

During construction or renovation, it is vital that the humidity in the building is controlled. This is done to ensure that moisture does not become trapped, causing damage to the structure of the building.

According to Corroventa, a survey regarding claims connected to newly built houses, showed the highest proportion of faults were related to moisture damage. This is caused by poor dehumidification during construction.

In between each stage of construction, a lot of materials will need to dry out before the next stage can begin. Dehumidifiers can be used to speed up the drying time, which will in turn speed up the construction process. 

The dehumidifiers can be placed inside or outside of the building.

Navig8 Restoration uses the Corroventa Supervision Remote Monitoring system to monitor the drying without having to attend the property.

What is the Corroventa Supervision Remote Monitoring system?

This system allows the features and controls of the drying equipment to be remotely monitored and controlled.

This reduces the number of onsite visits technicians need to make, saving customers time and money. 

Drying strategies can be quickly and easily amended. For complete transparency, Navig8 Restoration allows their customers access to this system, so they are well informed and kept up to date with any decisions made regarding the drying of the building.

If you have experienced water damage, contact us today for a free, no obligation estimate and to arrange a site survey.

What to do when you experience a flood

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Ways in which your building can get flooded

There are a number of reasons why you might experience a flood in your commercial or residential property.

External ingress of water – you could experience an ingress of water in your building from outside flooding.  Rainwater could also cause flooding if it comes in through holes in your building, such as broken roof tiles. In heavy rainfall water could enter your property very quickly

Burst or leaking pipes – there are a number of reasons why pipes may leak or burst. This could be down to faulty plumbing, aged pipework, blockages in pipes or weather conditions.

Burst or leaking water tank – water tanks are commonly found in lofts, meaning if there is a problem and the tank leaks, you could experience water damage throughout your property.

Sewage back up – If a sewage pipe is blocked or broken, it could result in sewage backing up into your property. Some common causes of this are tree roots damaging or blocking pipes, faulty plumbing and incorrect solids and liquids being poured down the drain or flushed away. Our article ‘Common causes of sewage back ups’ gives more information on this, as well as highlighting the signs that could indicate there is a problem along with measures you can put in place to reduce the chances of a sewage backup into your home.

All areas of a building can be flooded and experience water damage but flooded basements are most common, as they are the lowest point in a building.

What you should do first

If you experience a flood in your building, you need to make sure everyone is safe. Then make a call to your insurance company to understand your policy and if there are any particular steps you need to take. You then need to call in a professional cleaning company, who provides a sewage cleanup service. 

It might be tempting to tackle the cleaning yourself but there are often hidden dangers and damage as water can get into places that you can’t see, such as under floors, in the wall cavities, causing damage to the structure of the building and causing mould to grow. 

Things you can do whilst you are waiting for the sewage cleanup company to come to you

Many sewage cleanup companies offer an emergency cleanup service, Navig8 Restoration can be onsite within hours of your call.

While you are waiting for the cleaning company to arrive, there are some things you can do, but only if it is safe and you are comfortable to do them.

• Block off the area to prevent any cross contamination.

• Keep children and animals away.

• Turn off the gas, water and electricity supply (please note that this should not be done unless it is completely safe for you to do so, as the professionals will deal with this for you)

• Try to keep the area well ventilated, however air conditioning units should be turned off as the moisture in the air can cause damage to the system.

• Remove only essential, uncontaminated items.

Flood water can be dangerous as it may contain sewage or chemicals. If you are exposed to flood water, it is important to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment. This includes gloves, wellies and a face mask. You should also remember to wash your hands to minimise cross contamination and to further protect yourself and others.

Sewage clean up

Sewage water will require specialist cleaning as there are so many dangerous contaminants which can have serious implications on the health of those who come into contact with it. See our blog post The dangers lurking in sewage water for more information on the bacteria and viruses that are found in sewage water.

Navig8 Restoration are experts in all types of water damage remediation services and provide a sewage cleanup service.

Sometimes water damage isn’t obvious…

Sometimes you may not even be aware that your building has experienced water damage.

You may see damp patches or mould on the walls or ceilings, this could be down to poor ventilation but it can also be caused by a hidden ingress of water from burst pipes or a leak in the roof.

Navig8 Restoration offer a Damp and Moisture Survey which can detail the level of damp and moisture in a property, which areas have been affected, what the cause is and how the problem can be rectified.

Damage that can be caused by a flood

The damage caused by flooding can be significant. Navig8 Restorations surveyors will complete a full site survey and risk assessment, to fully understand the areas that have been affected and come up with the best solution for your situation. In order to remediate the damage caused and mitigate any further damage.

Flood water can damage the structure of the building, walls, floors  and ceilings. Navig8 Restoration have state of the art drying equipment which allows them to carry out sophisticated drying methods and techniques. Having access to and having the knowledge/expertise of how to use professional drying equipment, can significantly reduce the unfortunate requirement of having to carry out strip out works. Avoiding strip outs can drastically reduce your costs and speed up the water damage restoration process.

Appliances and furnishings can be damaged beyond repair. These will need to be disposed of safely and will need to be reported to your insurance company. 

Mould – trapped moisture can cause mould to grow which can damage surfaces and is dangerous to your health.

What the professionals will do

Navig8 Restoration will visit the site to assess the damage, followed by the completion of a full site survey and risk assessment. We will do this using the latest technology, including a drone, to understand the full extent of the water damage. If possible, remediation works can begin immediately.

Our highly trained technicians will make the area safe, putting up barriers if necessary.

We will use pumps and humidifiers to remove as much water as possible.

All surfaces and materials will then be fully disinfected and cleaned.

We will then install drying equipment that we can access and control remotely, to thoroughly dry out the building.

We will keep you up to date throughout the whole process.

Once completed, we will provide you with a hygiene certificate and documentation detailing the work carried out. This includes the results of any swabs taken, before, during and after the remediation process. 

We will also provide lists and photos of any items we were unable to salvage for you to forward to your insurance company.

Navig8 Restoration provides a rapid emergency response, if you have experienced water damage call us today on 0800 285 1447.