Maintaining Proper Landscaping to Minimize Soil Shifts

Maintaining Proper Landscaping to Minimize Soil Shifts

Common mistakes to avoid when creating follow up plans for foundation repair services

Understanding soil composition and how it affects foundation stability.


Understanding soil composition and how it affects foundation stability is crucial when it comes to maintaining proper landscaping to minimize soil shifts. High moisture levels can cause soil expansion, leading to foundation instability foundation wall repair service home insurance. Soil is not a one-size-fits-all material; it varies greatly in composition, structure, and properties depending on its location and the environmental conditions it has been subjected to over time. When we talk about soil composition, we're referring to the different elements that make up the soil, such as minerals, organic matter, water, and air. Each of these components plays a significant role in determining how soil behaves, especially in relation to foundation stability.

The mineral part of the soil, which includes sand, silt, and clay, affects how water moves through the soil and how it compacts under pressure. For instance, clay soils have a high capacity to hold water and can expand when wet, leading to soil shifts that might undermine a foundation. On the other hand, sandy soils drain quickly but offer less resistance to movement, which can also pose problems for foundation stability.

Organic matter in soil, such as decomposed plant and animal material, improves soil structure and fertility. It helps to bind soil particles together, enhancing stability. However, an excess of organic matter can lead to soil that is too loose, which might not provide adequate support for a foundation.

Water content in soil is perhaps one of the most dynamic factors affecting soil stability. Seasonal changes, rainfall, and irrigation practices can all impact the moisture levels in soil. When soil becomes saturated, it loses strength and can lead to soil shifts or even landslides in extreme cases. Proper landscaping practices, such as installing adequate drainage systems and choosing plant species that are suited to the local climate and soil type, can help manage water content and reduce the risk of soil shifts.

Air in the soil, while often overlooked, is also important. It occupies the spaces between soil particles and is crucial for root respiration and microbial activity. Compacted soil has reduced air space, which can hinder plant growth and affect soil stability.

To maintain proper landscaping and minimize soil shifts, it's essential to understand the specific composition of your soil. Regular soil testing can provide valuable information about its properties and help you make informed decisions about landscaping practices. For example, if your soil is high in clay, you might need to implement strategies to manage water more effectively to prevent expansion and contraction cycles that can lead to foundation issues.

In conclusion, a thorough understanding of soil composition is fundamental to maintaining landscape stability and protecting the integrity of foundations. By considering the unique characteristics of your soil and implementing appropriate landscaping techniques, you can create a stable environment that minimizes the risk of soil shifts and supports the long-term health of your landscape and structures.

The role of proper drainage in minimizing soil shifts and foundation issues.


Certainly!

When it comes to maintaining a healthy and stable landscape, one of the most crucial factors to consider is proper drainage. The role of proper drainage in minimizing soil shifts and foundation issues cannot be overstated. Let's dive into why this is so important and how you can ensure your landscaping is up to par.

First off, imagine your yard as a giant sponge. When it rains, this sponge absorbs water. If the sponge (or in this case, the soil) becomes overly saturated, it can start to shift and move. This is particularly problematic for the foundation of your home. When soil shifts, it can exert uneven pressure on your foundation, leading to cracks and other structural issues.

Proper drainage acts like a safety valve for your sponge. By allowing excess water to flow away from your home and its foundation, you prevent the soil from becoming overly saturated. This, in turn, minimizes the risk of soil shifts. There are several ways to ensure proper drainage in your landscape:

1. **Grading:** One of the simplest yet most effective methods is to ensure your yard is properly graded. This means the land should slope away from your home, allowing water to naturally flow away from the foundation.

2. **French Drains:** Installing a French drain can be a game-changer. This type of drain consists of a perforated pipe surrounded by gravel, which collects and redirects water away from your home.

3. **Gutters and Downspouts:** Make sure your gutters are clean and functioning properly. Downspouts should extend away from your home to ensure water is directed far from the foundation.

4. **Rain Gardens:** These are shallow, planted depressions that capture and absorb rainwater. Not only do they help with drainage, but they also add a beautiful touch to your landscape.

5. **Permeable Pavement:** If you have driveways or patios, consider using permeable materials that allow water to seep through rather than pooling on the surface.

In addition to these methods, regular maintenance is key. Keep an eye on your landscape for any signs of poor drainage, such as puddles that take a long time to disappear or areas where the soil seems unusually soft. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more significant problems down the line.

In conclusion, proper drainage is a vital component of maintaining a stable and healthy landscape. By taking the time to ensure your yard is well-drained, you not only protect your home's foundation but also create a more enjoyable and sustainable outdoor space.

Selecting appropriate plant species and their placement to enhance soil stability.


When it comes to maintaining proper landscaping to minimize soil shifts, one of the most effective strategies is selecting appropriate plant species and their strategic placement to enhance soil stability. This involves understanding the unique characteristics of your landscape, the soil type, and the environmental conditions, and then choosing plants that not only thrive in those conditions but also contribute to soil stabilization.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that different plants have varying root structures. Some plants have deep taproots that penetrate the soil deeply, while others have fibrous root systems that spread out horizontally near the soil surface. Both types of root systems play a crucial role in soil stability. Deep-rooted plants help to anchor the soil and prevent erosion by holding the soil particles together, while fibrous-rooted plants are excellent at absorbing water and nutrients from the topsoil, which helps to reduce surface runoff and soil displacement.

When selecting plant species, consider native plants that are well-adapted to your local climate and soil conditions. Native plants are generally more resilient and require less maintenance than non-native species. They are also more likely to support local wildlife and contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem. Additionally, native plants are often more effective at stabilizing soil because their root systems have evolved to thrive in the specific soil and climate conditions of your area.

Placement of plants is equally important. In areas prone to soil erosion, such as slopes or areas with heavy rainfall, consider planting a mix of grasses, shrubs, and trees. Grasses with fibrous root systems can quickly establish a dense cover that protects the soil surface from raindrop impact and reduces surface runoff. Shrubs and trees with deeper root systems can provide additional stability by anchoring the soil and reducing the risk of landslides or soil displacement.

In addition to plant selection and placement, consider incorporating other landscaping techniques to enhance soil stability. Mulching around plants can help to reduce soil erosion by protecting the soil surface from raindrop impact and reducing surface runoff. Additionally, installing retaining walls or terracing on slopes can help to prevent soil displacement by creating a series of level planting areas that slow down water flow and reduce the risk of erosion.

In conclusion, selecting appropriate plant species and their strategic placement is a crucial aspect of maintaining proper landscaping to minimize soil shifts. By choosing plants that are well-adapted to your local climate and soil conditions, and by strategically placing them in areas prone to erosion, you can significantly enhance soil stability and reduce the risk of soil displacement. Additionally, incorporating other landscaping techniques such as mulching and retaining walls can further contribute to soil stabilization and help to create a beautiful, sustainable landscape that thrives for years to come.

Implementing erosion control measures to protect the foundation from soil shifts.


Implementing erosion control measures is crucial when it comes to maintaining proper landscaping and minimizing soil shifts around your foundation. Erosion, the gradual wearing away of soil by natural forces like water and wind, can lead to significant issues if not properly managed. Here's why it's essential and how you can effectively implement these measures.

Firstly, understanding the causes of erosion is key. Heavy rainfall, improper drainage, and even regular irrigation can contribute to soil displacement. When soil shifts occur near the foundation, it can lead to cracks, settling, and other structural issues that are both costly and time-consuming to repair.

One effective method to control erosion is by installing erosion control blankets or mats. These are typically made from natural or synthetic materials and are laid over the soil surface. They help to stabilize the soil, reduce water runoff, and promote vegetation growth, which in turn further protects the soil.

Another strategy is the use of retaining walls. These walls are built to hold back soil and prevent it from shifting. They are particularly useful on sloped properties where the risk of erosion is higher. Made from materials like stone, concrete, or wood, retaining walls not only serve a functional purpose but can also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your landscape.

Planting vegetation is another natural and effective way to combat erosion. Deep-rooted plants help to bind the soil together, reducing the likelihood of it being washed away. Additionally, mulching around plants can help to absorb rainwater, reducing surface runoff and further protecting the soil.

Proper grading of your landscape is also vital. Ensuring that the land slopes away from your foundation helps to direct water away from your home, reducing the risk of soil erosion near the base. This simple adjustment can make a significant difference in the long-term stability of your foundation.

Lastly, regular maintenance of your landscaping is essential. This includes checking for any signs of erosion, ensuring that drainage systems are functioning correctly, and promptly addressing any issues that arise. By staying proactive, you can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

In conclusion, implementing erosion control measures is a fundamental aspect of maintaining proper landscaping and protecting your foundation from soil shifts. By understanding the causes of erosion and employing strategies like erosion control blankets, retaining walls, vegetation, proper grading, and regular maintenance, you can ensure the longevity and stability of your home's foundation.

Regular maintenance practices for landscaping to ensure ongoing soil stability.


Maintaining proper landscaping is crucial for minimizing soil shifts and ensuring the health and stability of your garden or yard. Regular maintenance practices play a significant role in this endeavor. Here are some essential practices to consider:

Firstly, consistent watering is vital. Overwatering can lead to soil erosion and instability, while underwatering can cause the soil to become too dry and compacted. Finding the right balance is key. Water your plants deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth, which helps to bind the soil together and reduce shifts.

Secondly, mulching is an effective way to protect the soil. Apply a layer of organic mulch around your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and prevent soil erosion. Mulch also adds organic matter to the soil as it decomposes, improving its structure and stability over time.

Thirdly, consider planting ground cover plants or low-growing shrubs in areas prone to soil shifts. These plants help to anchor the soil with their root systems, reducing the risk of erosion. Additionally, they provide a natural barrier against wind and water, further protecting the soil.

Fourthly, regular pruning and removal of dead or diseased plant material is important. Dead plants can contribute to soil instability, especially if they are uprooted. Pruning helps maintain plant health and promotes new growth, which in turn supports soil stability.

Lastly, pay attention to the slope of your landscape. If you have a sloped yard, consider implementing erosion control measures such as terracing or installing retaining walls. These structures can help to stabilize the soil and prevent it from shifting downhill.

In conclusion, regular maintenance practices are essential for maintaining proper landscaping and minimizing soil shifts. By implementing these practices, you can ensure the ongoing stability and health of your soil, creating a beautiful and sustainable landscape for years to come.

Collaboration with professional landscapers and foundation repair experts for optimal results.


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When it comes to maintaining proper landscaping to minimize soil shifts, collaboration with professional landscapers and foundation repair experts is crucial for achieving optimal results. Soil shifts can lead to a myriad of issues, including uneven terrain, damaged plants, and, more seriously, compromised structural integrity of buildings. By working together, these experts can create a harmonious and stable environment that benefits both the aesthetic and functional aspects of your property.

Professional landscapers bring a wealth of knowledge about plant species, soil types, and irrigation systems. They understand how different plants interact with the soil and can select species that are not only beautiful but also help to stabilize the ground. Additionally, they can design irrigation systems that provide adequate moisture without over-saturating the soil, which can lead to shifts and erosion.

Foundation repair experts, on the other hand, are skilled in identifying the underlying causes of soil movement. They can assess the structural integrity of your home or building and recommend solutions that prevent further damage. These might include installing retaining walls, adjusting the grading around your property, or implementing drainage solutions that redirect water away from the foundation.

When these two sets of expertise come together, the results are often far superior to what either could achieve alone. Landscapers can incorporate the recommendations of foundation experts into their designs, ensuring that the landscaping not only looks great but also supports the structural stability of the property. Foundation experts can, in turn, ensure that any repairs or preventive measures they implement are complemented by the landscaping, creating a cohesive and stable environment.

In conclusion, collaborating with professional landscapers and foundation repair experts is essential for maintaining proper landscaping that minimizes soil shifts. This partnership ensures that both the beauty and stability of your property are preserved, offering long-term benefits that enhance the value and safety of your home or business.

Case studies and success stories of residential properties that have effectively minimized soil shifts through proper landscaping.


Certainly!

Maintaining Proper Landscaping to Minimize Soil Shifts is a vital practice for homeowners aiming to preserve the integrity of their residential properties. Over the years, numerous case studies and success stories have emerged, showcasing the effectiveness of strategic landscaping in mitigating soil shifts. These real-world examples not only highlight the importance of this practice but also offer valuable insights and inspiration for others looking to protect their homes.

One notable case study involves a suburban home located in a region prone to heavy rainfall. The homeowners, facing consistent issues with soil erosion and shifting, decided to revamp their landscaping approach. They collaborated with a local landscaping expert who recommended a combination of native plantings, strategic grading, and the installation of rain gardens. Within a year, the results were remarkable. The soil remained stable, even during the monsoon season, and the property's aesthetic appeal increased manifold. This success story underscores the power of native plants, which have deep root systems that bind the soil together, coupled with innovative rainwater management techniques.

Another compelling example comes from a coastal property battered by strong winds and salt spray. The owners were concerned about the potential for soil erosion and the impact it could have on their home's foundation. After consulting with a geotechnical engineer, they opted for a multi-layered approach. They planted windbreaks using salt-tolerant shrubs and trees, constructed retaining walls in erosion-prone areas, and ensured proper drainage around the property. The outcome was a fortified landscape that not only minimized soil shifts but also provided a serene buffer against the coastal elements.

In an urban setting, a condominium complex faced challenges with soil compaction due to heavy foot traffic and limited green spaces. The management team decided to introduce green roofs and vertical gardens. These innovations not only beautified the space but also played a crucial role in reducing soil shifts. The green roofs absorbed rainwater, reducing runoff, while the vertical gardens added weight distribution, stabilizing the soil beneath.

These case studies and success stories serve as a testament to the fact that with thoughtful planning and the right techniques, residential properties can effectively minimize soil shifts through proper landscaping. Whether it's through the use of native plants, innovative rainwater management, windbreaks, or urban greening solutions, the key lies in understanding the unique challenges of each property and tailoring landscaping strategies accordingly.



A mobile home being repaired in Oklahoma
A person making these repairs to a house after a flood

Home repair involves the diagnosis and resolution of problems in a home, and is related to home maintenance to avoid such problems. Many types of repairs are "do it yourself" (DIY) projects, while others may be so complicated, time-consuming or risky as to require the assistance of a qualified handyperson, property manager, contractor/builder, or other professionals.

Home repair is not the same as renovation, although many improvements can result from repairs or maintenance. Often the costs of larger repairs will justify the alternative of investment in full-scale improvements. It may make just as much sense to upgrade a home system (with an improved one) as to repair it or incur ever-more-frequent and expensive maintenance for an inefficient, obsolete or dying system.

Worn, consumed, dull, dirty, clogged

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Repairs often mean simple replacement of worn or used components intended to be periodically renewed by a home-owner, such as burnt out light bulbs, worn out batteries, or overfilled vacuum cleaner bags. Another class of home repairs relates to restoring something to a useful condition, such as sharpening tools or utensils, replacing leaky faucet washers, cleaning out plumbing traps, rain gutters. Because of the required precision, specialized tools, or hazards, some of these are best left to experts such as a plumber. One emergency repair that may be necessary in this area is overflowing toilets. Most of them have a shut-off valve on a pipe beneath or behind them so that the water supply can be turned off while repairs are made, either by removing a clog or repairing a broken mechanism.

Broken or damaged

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Perhaps the most perplexing repairs facing a home-owner are broken or damaged things. In today's era of built-in obsolescence for many products, it is often more convenient to replace something rather than attempt to repair it. A repair person is faced with the tasks of accurately identifying the problem, then finding the materials, supplies, tools and skills necessary to sufficiently effect the repair. Some things, such as broken windows, appliances or furniture can be carried to a repair shop, but there are many repairs that can be performed easily enough, such as patching holes in plaster and drywall, cleaning stains, repairing cracked windows and their screens, or replacing a broken electrical switch or outlet. Other repairs may have some urgency, such as broken water pipes, broken doors, latches or windows, or a leaky roof or water tank, and this factor can certainly justify calling for professional help. A home handyperson may become adept at dealing with such immediate repairs, to avoid further damage or loss, until a professional can be summoned.

Emergency repairs

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Emergencies can happen at any time, so it is important to know how to quickly and efficiently fix the problem. From natural disasters, power loss, appliance failure and no water, emergency repairs tend to be one of the most important repairs to be comfortable and confident with. In most cases, the repairs are DIY or fixable with whatever is around the house. Common repairs would be fixing a leak, broken window, flooding, frozen pipes or clogged toilet. Each problem can have a relatively simple fix, a leaky roof and broken window can be patched, a flood can be pumped out, pipes can be thawed and repaired and toilets can be unclogged with a chemical. For the most part, emergency repairs are not permanent. They are what you can do fast to stop the problem then have a professional come in to permanently fix it.[1] Flooding as a result of frozen pipes, clogged toilets or a leaky roof can result in very costly water damage repairs and even potential health issues resulting from mold growth if not addressed in a timely manner.

Maintenance

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Periodic maintenance also falls under the general class of home repairs. These are inspections, adjustments, cleaning, or replacements that should be done regularly to ensure proper functioning of all the systems in a house, and to avoid costly emergencies. Examples include annual testing and adjustment of alarm systems, central heating or cooling systems (electrodes, thermocouples, and fuel filters), replacement of water treatment components or air-handling filters, purging of heating radiators and water tanks, defrosting a freezer, vacuum refrigerator coils, refilling dry floor-drain traps with water, cleaning out rain gutters, down spouts and drains, touching up worn house paint and weather seals, and cleaning accumulated creosote out of chimney flues, which may be best left to a chimney sweep.

Examples of less frequent home maintenance that should be regularly forecast and budgeted include repainting or staining outdoor wood or metal, repainting masonry, waterproofing masonry, cleaning out septic systems, replacing sacrificial electrodes in water heaters, replacing old washing machine hoses (preferably with stainless steel hoses less likely to burst and cause a flood), and other home improvements such as replacement of obsolete or ageing systems with limited useful lifetimes (water heaters, wood stoves, pumps, and asphaltic or wooden roof shingles and siding.

Often on the bottom of people's to-do list is home maintenance chores, such as landscaping, window and gutter cleaning, power washing the siding and hard-scape, etc. However, these maintenance chores pay for themselves over time. Often, injury could occur when operating heavy machinery or when climbing on ladders or roofs around your home, so if an individual is not in the proper physical condition to accomplish these chores, then they should consult a professional. Lack of maintenance will cost more due to higher costs associated with repairs or replacements to be made later. It requires discipline and learning aptitude to repair and maintain the home in good condition, but it is a satisfying experience to perform even seemingly minor repairs.

Good operations

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Another related issue for avoiding costly repairs (or disasters) is the proper operation of a home, including systems and appliances, in a way that prevents damage or prolongs their usefulness. For example, at higher latitudes, even a clean rain gutter can suddenly build up an ice dam in winter, forcing melt water into unprotected roofing, resulting in leaks or even flooding inside walls or rooms. This can be prevented by installing moisture barrier beneath the roofing tiles. A wary home-owner should be alert to the conditions that can result in larger problems and take remedial action before damage or injury occurs. It may be easier to tack down a bit of worn carpet than repair a large patch damaged by prolonged misuse. Another example is to seek out the source of unusual noises or smells when mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems are operating—sometimes they indicate incipient problems. One should avoid overloading or otherwise misusing systems, and a recurring overload may indicate time for an upgrade.

Water infiltration is one of the most insidious sources of home damage. Small leaks can lead to water stains, and rotting wood. Soft, rotten wood is an inviting target for termites and other wood-damaging insects. Left unattended, a small leak can lead to significant structural damage, necessitating the replacement of beams and framing.

With a useful selection of tools, typical materials and supplies on hand, and some home repair information or experience, a home-owner or handyperson should be able to carry out a large number of DIY home repairs and identify those that will need the specialized attention of others.

Remediation of environmental problems

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When a home is sold, inspections are performed that may reveal environmental hazards such as radon gas in the basement or water supply or friable asbestos materials (both of which can cause lung cancer), peeling or disturbed lead paint (a risk to children and pregnant women), in-ground heating oil tanks that may contaminate ground water, or mold that can cause problems for those with asthma or allergies. Typically the buyer or mortgage lender will require these conditions to be repaired before allowing the purchase to close. An entire industry of environmental remediation contractors has developed to help home owners resolve these types of problems.

See also

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  • Electrical wiring
  • Handyperson
  • Housekeeping
  • Home improvement
  • Home wiring
  • HVAC
  • Maintenance, repair, and operations
  • Plumbing
  • Right to repair
  • Smoke alarm
  • Winterization

References

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  1. ^ Reader's Digest New Complete Do-it-yourself Manual. Montreal, Canada: Reader's Digest Association. 1991. pp. 9–13. ISBN 9780888501783. OCLC 1008853527.

 

Interior of part of a damaged home in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina
Family photographs damaged by flooding
A smaller and more minor water spot caused by rainwater leaking through a roof

Water damage describes various possible losses caused by water intruding where it will enable attack of a material or system by destructive processes such as rotting of wood, mold growth, bacteria growth, rusting of steel, swelling of composite woods, de-laminating of materials such as plywood, short-circuiting of electrical devices, etc.

The damage may be imperceptibly slow and minor such as water spots that could eventually mar a surface, or it may be instantaneous and catastrophic such as burst pipes and flooding. However fast it occurs, water damage is a major contributor to loss of property.

An insurance policy may or may not cover the costs associated with water damage and the process of water damage restoration. While a common cause of residential water damage is often the failure of a sump pump, many homeowner's insurance policies do not cover the associated costs without an addendum which adds to the monthly premium of the policy. Often the verbiage of this addendum is similar to "Sewer and Drain Coverage".

In the United States, those individuals who are affected by wide-scale flooding may have the ability to apply for government and FEMA grants through the Individual Assistance program.[1] On a larger level, businesses, cities, and communities can apply to the FEMA Public Assistance program for funds to assist after a large flood. For example, the city of Fond du Lac Wisconsin received $1.2 million FEMA grant after flooding in June 2008. The program allows the city to purchase the water damaged properties, demolish the structures, and turn the former land into public green space.[citation needed]

Causes

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Water damage can originate by different sources such as a broken dishwasher hose, a washing machine overflow, a dishwasher leakage, broken/leaking pipes, flood waters, groundwater seepage, building envelope failures (leaking roof, windows, doors, siding, etc.) and clogged toilets. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 13.7% of all water used in the home today can be attributed to plumbing leaks.[2] On average that is approximately 10,000 gallons of water per year wasted by leaks for each US home. A tiny, 1/8-inch crack in a pipe can release up to 250 gallons of water a day.[3] According to Claims Magazine in August 2000, broken water pipes ranked second to hurricanes in terms of both the number of homes damaged and the amount of claims (on average $50,000 per insurance claim[citation needed]) costs in the US.[4] Experts suggest that homeowners inspect and replace worn pipe fittings and hose connections to all household appliances that use water at least once a year. This includes washing machines, dishwashers, kitchen sinks, and bathroom lavatories, refrigerator icemakers, water softeners, and humidifiers. A few US companies offer whole-house leak protection systems utilizing flow-based technologies. A number of insurance companies offer policyholders reduced rates for installing a whole-house leak protection system.

As far as insurance coverage is concerned, damage caused by surface water intrusion to the dwelling is considered flood damage and is normally excluded from coverage under traditional homeowners' insurance. Surface water is water that enters the dwelling from the surface of the ground because of inundation or insufficient drainage and causes loss to the dwelling. Coverage for surface water intrusion[5] to the dwelling would usually require a separate flood insurance policy.

Categories

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There are three basic categories of water damage, based on the level of contamination.

Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water". Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows or appliance malfunctions that involves water supply lines.

Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to. Known as "grey water". This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of micro-organisms. Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines.

Category 3 Water - Known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, storm surge, ground surface water or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or have remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back flows that originates from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.[6]

Classes

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Class of water damage is determined by the probable rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected, or wet, in the room or space that was flooded. Determining the class of water damage is an important first step, and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to dry-down the structure.[7]

Class 1 - Slow Rate of Evaporation. Affects only a portion of a room. Materials have a low permeance/porosity. Minimum moisture is absorbed by the materials. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 1 be indicated when <5% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 2 - Fast Rate of Evaporation. Water affects the entire room of carpet and cushion. May have wicked up the walls, but not more than 24 inches. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 2 be indicated when 5% to 40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 3 - Fastest Rate of Evaporation. Water generally comes from overhead, affecting the entire area; walls, ceilings, insulation, carpet, cushion, etc. **IICRC s500 2016 update adds that class 3 be indicated when >40% of the total square footage of a room (ceiling+walls+floor) are affected **

Class 4 - Specialty Drying Situations. Involves materials with a very low permeance/porosity, such as hardwood floors, concrete, crawlspaces, gypcrete, plaster, etc. Drying generally requires very low specific humidity to accomplish drying.

Restoration

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Water damage restoration can be performed by property management teams, building maintenance personnel, or by the homeowners themselves; however, contacting a certified professional water damage restoration specialist is often regarded as the safest way to restore water damaged property. Certified professional water damage restoration specialists utilize psychrometrics to monitor the drying process.[8]

Standards and regulation

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While there are currently no government regulations in the United States dictating procedures, two certifying bodies, the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and the RIA, do recommend standards of care. The current IICRC standard is ANSI/IICRC S500-2021.[9] It is the collaborative work of the IICRC, SCRT, IEI, IAQA, and NADCA.

Fire and Water Restoration companies are regulated by the appropriate state's Department of Consumer Affairs - usually the state contractors license board. In California, all Fire and Water Restoration companies must register with the California Contractors State License Board.[10] Presently, the California Contractors State License Board has no specific classification for "water and fire damage restoration."

Procedures

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Water damage restoration is often prefaced by a loss assessment and evaluation of affected materials. The damaged area is inspected with water sensing equipment such as probes and other infrared tools in order to determine the source of the damage and possible extent of areas affected. Emergency mitigation services are the first order of business. Controlling the source of water, removal of non-salvageable materials, water extraction and pre-cleaning of impacted materials are all part of the mitigation process. Restoration services would then be rendered to the property in order to dry the structure, stabilize building materials, sanitize any affected or cross-contaminated areas, and deodorize all affected areas and materials. After the labor is completed, water damage equipment including air movers, air scrubbers, dehumidifiers, wood floor drying systems, and sub-floor drying equipment is left in the residence. The goal of the drying process is to stabilize the moisture content of impacted materials below 15%, the generally accepted threshold for microbial amplification. Industry standards state that drying vendors should return at regular time intervals, preferably every twenty-four hours, to monitor the equipment, temperature, humidity, and moisture content of the affected walls and contents.[6] In conclusion, key aspects of water damage restoration include fast action, adequate equipment, moisture measurements, and structural drying. Dehumidification is especially crucial for structural components affected by water damage, such as wooden beams, flooring, and drywall.

See also

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  • Indoor mold

References

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  1. ^ "Individual Disaster Assistance". DisasterAssistance.gov. Retrieved 2009-09-28.
  2. ^ "How We Use Water". 16 January 2017.
  3. ^ The University of Maine Corporate Extension – www.umext.maine.edu
  4. ^ Herndon Jr., Everette L.; Yang, Chin S. (August 2000). "Mold & Mildew: A Creeping Catastrophe". Claims Magazine. Archived from the original on 2000-08-15. Retrieved November 4, 2016.
  5. ^ Moisture Control Guidance for Building Design, Construction and Maintenance. December 2013.
  6. ^ "Water Damage Restoration Guideline" (PDF). Northern Arizona University. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2013-06-26. Retrieved 2 September 2014.
  7. ^ "The Basics Of Water Damage Restoration Training". www.iicrc.org. Retrieved 2016-11-03.
  8. ^ "Chapter 6: Psychrometry and the Science of Drying". IICRC Standards Subscription Site. Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Retrieved 27 September 2020.
  9. ^ "ANSI/IICRC S500 Water Damage Restoration". IICRC. 22 December 2020. Retrieved 14 February 2022.
  10. ^ "California Contractors State License Board". State of California. Retrieved 2010-08-29.
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USS was excellent. They are honest, straightforward, trustworthy, and conscientious. They thoughtfully removed the flowers and flower bulbs to dig where they needed in the yard, replanted said flowers and spread the extra dirt to fill in an area of the yard. We've had other services from different companies and our yard was really a mess after. They kept the job site meticulously clean. The crew was on time and friendly. I'd recommend them any day! Thanks to Jessie and crew.

Jim de Leon

(5)

It was a pleasure to work with Rick and his crew. From the beginning, Rick listened to my concerns and what I wished to accomplish. Out of the 6 contractors that quoted the project, Rick seemed the MOST willing to accommodate my wishes. His pricing was definitely more than fair as well. I had 10 push piers installed to stabilize and lift an addition of my house. The project commenced at the date that Rick had disclosed initially and it was completed within the same time period expected (based on Rick's original assessment). The crew was well informed, courteous, and hard working. They were not loud (even while equipment was being utilized) and were well spoken. My neighbors were very impressed on how polite they were when they entered / exited my property (saying hello or good morning each day when they crossed paths). You can tell they care about the customer concerns. They ensured that the property would be put back as clean as possible by placing MANY sheets of plywood down prior to excavating. They compacted the dirt back in the holes extremely well to avoid large stock piles of soils. All the while, the main office was calling me to discuss updates and expectations of completion. They provided waivers of lien, certificates of insurance, properly acquired permits, and JULIE locates. From a construction background, I can tell you that I did not see any flaws in the way they operated and this an extremely professional company. The pictures attached show the push piers added to the foundation (pictures 1, 2 & 3), the amount of excavation (picture 4), and the restoration after dirt was placed back in the pits and compacted (pictures 5, 6 & 7). Please notice that they also sealed two large cracks and steel plated these cracks from expanding further (which you can see under my sliding glass door). I, as well as my wife, are extremely happy that we chose United Structural Systems for our contractor. I would happily tell any of my friends and family to use this contractor should the opportunity arise!

Chris Abplanalp

(5)

USS did an amazing job on my underpinning on my house, they were also very courteous to the proximity of my property line next to my neighbor. They kept things in order with all the dirt/mud they had to excavate. They were done exactly in the timeframe they indicated, and the contract was very details oriented with drawings of what would be done. Only thing that would have been nice, is they left my concrete a little muddy with boot prints but again, all-in-all a great job

Dave Kari

(5)

What a fantastic experience! Owner Rick Thomas is a trustworthy professional. Nick and the crew are hard working, knowledgeable and experienced. I interviewed every company in the area, big and small. A homeowner never wants to hear that they have foundation issues. Out of every company, I trusted USS the most, and it paid off in the end. Highly recommend.

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