Category: Flood & Water Damage

If your condo or apartment building has flooded recently, here are a few quick tips on how to fix water damage to commercial properties.

Water damage in a multi-unit residential building, like a condominium or apartment complex, can be a challenging problem. It’s not just about addressing the immediate damage but also about preventing long-term issues and ensuring the safety and comfort of all residents. Here’s a guide on how to effectively manage water damage in commercial properties.

Quick Response is Key

Assess the Damage

• Identify the Source: First, locate the source of the water damage. This could be due to flooding, leaks, or burst pipes.
• Safety First: Ensure that the building is safe for residents. Look out for electrical hazards and structural damage.

Contain the Damage

• Stop the Water Flow: If the source is a burst pipe or leak, shut off the water supply immediately.
• Prevent Spread: Use sandbags or water barriers to prevent water from spreading to unaffected areas.

Immediate Remediation Actions

Water Extraction

• Remove Standing Water: Use pumps or vacuums to remove standing water as quickly as possible.
• Dry the Area: Employ industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the affected areas.

Salvage and Cleanup

• Assess Property: Evaluate furniture, carpets, and other items for water damage.
• Disinfect: Clean and disinfect the area to prevent mold growth.

Long-Term Recovery

Addressing Mold and Mildew

• Inspection: Regularly inspect for signs of mold and mildew in the aftermath of water damage.
• Professional Mold Remediation: If mold is found, it’s crucial to have it professionally removed.

Structural Repairs

• Inspect Integrity: Assess the structural integrity of the building, focusing on areas like walls, ceilings, and floors.
• Repair and Restore: Carry out necessary repairs to restore the building to its pre-damage condition.

Prevention and Preparedness

Upgrade Infrastructure

• Water-Resistant Materials: Consider using water-resistant materials in areas prone to water exposure.
• Regular Maintenance: Ensure regular maintenance of pipes and plumbing systems to prevent future incidents.

Emergency Planning

• Emergency Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency response plan for future water damage scenarios.
• Educate Residents: Inform residents about steps to take in case of water emergencies.

Partnering with a Professional Remediation Company

The final and perhaps most crucial step in addressing water damage in a multi-unit residential building is working with a professional remediation company. These specialists are equipped with the tools, knowledge, and experience to handle extensive water damage effectively. They can provide:

• Expert Assessment: A thorough evaluation of the damage and a plan for remediation.
• Advanced Techniques: Use of advanced techniques and equipment for water extraction, drying, and mold removal.
• Restoration Services: Restoration of the property to its original state or better.
• Preventative Advice: Guidance on how to prevent future water damage incidents.

In conclusion, while immediate action can significantly mitigate the impact of water damage, the expertise of a professional remediation company specializing in water and flood damage is invaluable. They ensure that your property not only recovers from the immediate effects but is also safeguarded against future incidents.

At Touch With Care, we understand the importance of safeguarding your property. We provide restoration services such as flood and water damage restoration, mold remediation, fire restoration, and specialty cleaning to assist you in case of any unforeseen disasters. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you maintain a safe and functional commercial property.

Did your parking structure get flooded? Here are a few tips on how to dry out a parking garage from the water damage restoration experts.

Floods can strike unexpectedly, leaving property managers grappling with the aftermath. One of the most challenging situations to handle is a flooded parking garage, a common but daunting problem in commercial property management. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to dry out your parking garage efficiently, ensuring safety and minimizing long-term damage.

Assess the Damage

Before taking any action, it’s crucial to assess the extent of the flooding. Consider:

• Water Level: How much of the parking garage is submerged?
• Source of Water: Is it from a natural flood, a burst pipe, or another source?
• Duration of Flooding: How long has the area been underwater?

Understanding these factors will help you formulate a more effective drying strategy.

Safety First

• Turn Off Electricity: Ensure that the power is turned off to avoid electrical hazards.
• Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves, boots, and masks to protect against contaminants in the water.

Begin the Drying Process

Remove Standing Water

• Use Pumps and Wet Vacs: These tools are effective for removing large quantities of water.
• Clear Drains: Ensure all drains are clear of debris to facilitate water exit.

Dehumidify and Ventilate

• Industrial Dehumidifiers: These are essential in reducing moisture levels.
• Ventilation: Open all doors and use fans to circulate air and speed up the drying process.

Clean and Sanitize

• Pressure Washing: Helps in removing mud, debris, and contaminants.
• Disinfectant Application: Apply appropriate disinfectants to prevent mold and bacterial growth.

Inspect and Repair

• Structural Assessment: Check for any structural damage caused by the flood.
• Electrical Systems: Ensure all electrical systems are safe before turning the power back on.

Prevent Future Incidents

• Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain drainage systems.
• Flood Barriers: Consider installing barriers or flood gates as preventive measures.

Partner with Professionals

While the above steps can mitigate immediate concerns, working with a professional remediation company specializing in water and flood damage is crucial for comprehensive recovery. These experts offer:

• Advanced Equipment: Professional-grade tools for efficient drying and sanitation.
• Expertise: Knowledge in handling various aspects of water damage.
• Thorough Assessment: Ensuring no hidden moisture or damage that could lead to future problems.

Conclusion

Drying out a flooded parking garage is a formidable task, but with the right approach, it can be managed effectively. Remember, the key to successful remediation lies not just in immediate action but also in professional expertise. Partnering with a specialized remediation company ensures that your parking garage is restored to its pre-flood state, safeguarding the integrity of your property and the safety of its users.

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For more information on handling water damage and other restoration services, visit our blog regularly. We are dedicated to providing valuable insights for commercial property managers, facilities managers, and business owners in Southern Ontario.

It’s one thing to have a flooded basement. It’s quite another to have commercial flood damage. Here’s a quick overview.

Experiencing flood damage in a commercial setting can be a daunting and disruptive experience. This guide provides an overview of steps to manage commercial flood damage effectively, emphasizing the importance of professional remediation services.

Assessing the Situation Safely

• Safety First: Ensure that the area is safe to enter. Look out for structural damages, electrical hazards, and contaminated water.
• Document the Damage: Take photos and videos for insurance purposes. Document everything affected by the flood.

Immediate Steps to Minimize Damage

• Remove Water: If safe, start removing standing water using pumps or vacuums.
• Ventilation: Open windows and use fans to circulate air and aid in drying.
• Protect Valuables: Move undamaged assets to a safe, dry place.

Understanding the Risks of Commercial Flood Damage

• Structural Concerns: Water can weaken structures, making them unsafe.
• Mould Growth: Damp conditions can lead to mould, which poses health risks.
• Business Interruption: Prolonged damage can disrupt business operations, leading to financial losses.

The Importance of Quick Action

• Prevent Further Damage: Quick response can prevent exacerbation of the damage.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Addressing issues immediately can reduce long-term repair costs.

Professional Remediation: A Necessary Step

• Expert Assessment: Professionals can accurately assess the full extent of the damage.
• Advanced Equipment: Specialized tools are used for efficient and thorough remediation.
• Health and Safety Compliance: Experts ensure that the cleanup process adheres to health and safety standards.

The Role of a Professional Remediation Company

• Comprehensive Services: From water extraction to mould remediation, they cover all aspects of flood damage recovery.
• Experience with Commercial Properties: Understanding the complexities of commercial properties is crucial for effective restoration.
• Coordination with Insurance: Assistance with the insurance claims process.

Final Considerations

• Act Quickly: Time is of the essence in minimizing damage and resuming business operations.
• Professional Partnership: Partnering with a professional remediation company specializing in water and flood damage is crucial for a successful recovery.

Flood damage in a commercial setting is a significant challenge, but with the right approach and professional support, it can be effectively managed. Remember, acting quickly and enlisting the help of specialists in commercial flood damage is key to restoring your property efficiently and safely.

At Touch With Care, we understand the importance of safeguarding your property. We provide restoration services such as flood and water damage restoration, mold remediation, fire restoration, and specialty cleaning to assist you in case of any unforeseen disasters. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you maintain a safe and functional commercial property.

Old Man Winter is on your doorstep! Here are a few key to-do’s when it comes to winterizing your commercial property properly.

As winter approaches in Southern Ontario, commercial property managers, facilities managers, and business owners need to ensure their properties are prepared to withstand the harsh weather conditions. Winterization is a crucial step to safeguard your investment and ensure the safety and comfort of your tenants or employees.

Check HVAC System:

• The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system should be inspected and serviced to ensure it functions efficiently during the winter months.
• Proper maintenance can help prevent breakdowns and costly emergency repairs.

Have Roof Inspected:

• The roof is your first line of defense against snow and ice. Ensure it is in good condition by having it inspected.
• Addressing any leaks or damage promptly can prevent water infiltration and structural issues.

Check Plumbing:

• Cold temperatures can lead to frozen pipes, which can burst and cause significant water damage.
• Insulate pipes, check for leaks, and consider using heating cables in vulnerable areas.

Check Your Insulation:

• Adequate insulation helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduces heating costs.
• Inspect insulation in walls, ceilings, and around windows and doors.

Shut Down Your Office Irrigation Systems:

• In Ontario, freezing temperatures can damage irrigation systems.
• Properly shut down and drain irrigation systems to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

Make Sure Your Fire Prevention Equipment is Working:

• Fire safety is a year-round concern. Ensure smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems are in working order.
• Perform regular maintenance and inspections to guarantee safety.

Have a Disaster Plan:

• Prepare for the unexpected by having a disaster plan in place.
• Identify emergency contacts, establish evacuation routes, and ensure all staff are aware of safety procedures.

Winterizing your commercial property in Southern Ontario is a proactive approach to protect your investment and ensure the safety and well-being of occupants. Regular maintenance and preparation can help avoid costly repairs and minimize disruptions during the winter months.

At Touch With Care, we understand the importance of safeguarding your property. We provide restoration services such as flood and water damage restoration, mold remediation, fire restoration, and specialty cleaning to assist you in case of any unforeseen disasters. Contact us to learn more about how we can help you maintain a safe and functional commercial property throughout the winter season.

Spring is upon us! As you head outdoors to tend to your garden and lawn, don’t neglect your home’s exterior. With the warmer weather comes more rain this season. Spring is ripe for rainstorms and it’s also a time when homeowners in Mississauga may experience water damage.

Below are six tips you can use to avoid having to deal with water damage restoration this season. Be sure to add this checklist to your spring cleaning tasks — both indoors and outdoors. During the next rainstorm or severe weather event, you’ll be thankful that you did.

1) Disconnect Your Hoses

Standing water in your hoses can freeze and create a block that prevents water from flowing. This can cause pipes to burst and water to flow out. Be sure to disconnect your hoses before winter hits each year. Now that it’s spring, you’re safe to reconnect.

2) Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts

Rainwater should be able to move freely through your gutters. When leaves build up, your gutters can overflow, causing water damage to your roof. Also ensure downspouts are clear of debris and angled away from your home to prevent water damage to your foundation.

3) Trim Trees and Plants

Overgrown plants can wrap around pipes and eventually cause them to break. Before you have a water damage restoration project on your hands, trim the plants around your pipes.

4) Maintain Appliances

A quick check of your fridge, dishwasher and washing machine will ensure they’re not leaking. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions for maintenance.

5) Fix Leaky Faucets

It may only be dripping occasionally, but those drips can add up and affect your water bill. Plus, dealing with simple leaks now can prevent larger, more costly damages from developing.

6) Install Braided Hoses

Old, rubber tubing behind your washing machine can crack as it ages. Installing braided, metal hosing will prevent future leaks.

Above all, it’s important to remember that water damage restoration caused by poor maintenance on your part as a homeowner isn’t covered under most standard insurance plans.

At Touch With Care, we provide local homeowners with 24-7 emergency service and one-hour response time for water damage restoration. Our staff is IICRC certified and we use state-of-the-art equipment to extract water and moisture, promote drying, and clean and sanitize your home afterward.

If you need service due to a flood, call our emergency line at (416) 985-4681 for urgent help.

Water damage restoration should be taken seriously if not dealt with properly, it can cause bacteria growth and damage assets.

Whether the damage is caused by plumbing, weather or flooding, water damage is not to be taken lightly. Delaying the cleanup could result in odours, bacteria growth, and damage to your assets — all of which are costly business expenses. A professional water damage restoration company will not only fix the issue and work to restore your business, but they can also address the underlying cause.

When your entire business could be at stake, it’s better to seek help from professionals. Here are a few reasons why.

Speedy Service

Water damage takes place quickly as it spreads from ceiling to floors and walls. In many instances, it’s said that the damage from water can be more severe than what’s caused by fire. In the same way you’d call the pros to fight an office fire, a water damage restoration service company can work to restore your business from water. A quick call is usually all it takes, since many water damage companies — such as Grandmother’s Touch in Mississauga — have technicians on call 24-7 for emergencies.

Eliminate Hazards

Mould and bacteria are a few issues that come with water damage. Unless all the water is removed and dried from your office, these harmful destructive issues could impact your teams and your work down the road. After a flood, damage restoration specialists can prevent infections and diseases from spreading through your space.

Limit Loss

As water spreads, your assets, inventory and equipment could all be affected. The Damage will continue until the water is removed, and your belongings are dealt with. This Cleanup is a thorough and involved process that needs to take place quickly to limit the loss you incur. Water damage restoration service companies arrive within the hour of being called to get started on this repair right away.

Work with Insurance

Many flood damage restoration companies work with your insurance company to file claims. Since water damage can be a stressful situation, this service is generally well-received. It takes the headaches of working with insurance companies off your plate.

At Touch With Care, we provide local businesses with 24-7 emergency service and one-hour response time for water damage. Our staff is IICRC certified, and we use state-of-the-art equipment to extract water and moisture, promote drying, and clean and sanitize your business afterwards.

If you need service due to a flood, call our emergency line at (416) 985-4681 for urgent help.

Worried about flooding? Here are some safety measures we recommend to keep your commercial property protected from water damage.

Experiencing flood damage in a commercial setting can be a daunting and disruptive experience. This guide provides an overview of steps to prevent commercial flood damage effectively, emphasizing the importance of professional remediation services.

Do Some Initial Research

Look at your local municipal government’s website to see if they have any information on flood damage restoration and preventative measures your organization can take. They may even share some flood and sewer back-up prevention programs that might be covered as being tax-deductible.

Make Sure Your Building is Properly Sealed

One of the biggest ways water can get into your building is through the cracks surrounding your structure. Look closely around the outside and inside of your building to see if you can find any cracks in walls, windows, foundations, and floors. Apply waterproofing sealant where needed in order to prevent water from seeping into your building.

Pay Attention to The Weather Outside

Now that we are in the middle of the winter season, this is an especially crucial time to pay attention to what the weather is like outside. Between falling snow, freezing rain, and melting ice, this is a season that has an excess supply of water and there is a higher risk of flooding. You can help to prevent water damage by doing things like:

• Removing snow around your building and foundation.
• Clearing catch basins of ice, snow, and debris caught inside.
• Making sure downspouts are clear of any obstructions.
• Checking the roof and removing any excess snow.

Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks

Conduct regular inspections of the key areas around your building, and even bring in an expert to inspect your premises a couple of times a year to ensure everything is in proper working order. It’s also important that you know your plumbing system. Knowing that your plumbing and drainage system is in top condition and working order can go a long way in helping prevent flooding. Consult a flood damage restoration expert if you have any questions.

Install a Sump Pump

While this can seem like a substantial investment, if your business were to ever experience any flooding, you’ll be glad you installed a sump pump. The device is well worth the cost as it rapidly pumps water away from your premises.

Grandmother’s Touch: Water Damage Restoration Near You

Has your commercial property in the GTA been damaged recently in a flood or other water leak? We are your trusted water damage restoration near you. Contact us today to find out how we can help with your water damage restoration needs.

Spring is upon us! As you head outdoors to tend to your garden and lawn, don’t neglect your home’s exterior. With the warmer weather comes more rain this season. Spring is ripe for rainstorms and it’s also a time when homeowners in Mississauga may experience water damage.

Below are six tips you can use to avoid having to deal with water damage restoration this season. Be sure to add this checklist to your spring cleaning tasks — both indoors and outdoors. During the next rainstorm or severe weather event, you’ll be thankful that you did.

1) Disconnect Your Hoses

Standing water in your hoses can freeze and create a block that prevents water from flowing. This can cause pipes to burst and water to flow out. Be sure to disconnect your hoses before winter hits each year. Now that it’s spring, you’re safe to reconnect.

2) Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts

Rainwater should be able to move freely through your gutters. When leaves build up, your gutters can overflow, causing water damage to your roof. Also ensure downspouts are clear of debris and angled away from your home to prevent water damage to your foundation.

3) Trim Trees and Plants

Overgrown plants can wrap around pipes and eventually cause them to break. Before you have a water damage restoration project on your hands, trim the plants around your pipes.

4) Maintain Appliances

A quick check of your fridge, dishwasher and washing machine will ensure they’re not leaking. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions for maintenance.

5) Fix Leaky Faucets

It may only be dripping occasionally, but those drips can add up and affect your water bill. Plus, dealing with simple leaks now can prevent larger, more costly damages from developing.

6) Install Braided Hoses

Old, rubber tubing behind your washing machine can crack as it ages. Installing braided, metal hosing will prevent future leaks.

Above all, it’s important to remember that water damage restoration caused by poor maintenance on your part as a homeowner isn’t covered under most standard insurance plans.

At Touch With Care in Mississauga, we provide local homeowners with 24-7 emergency service and one-hour response time for water damage restoration. Our staff is IICRC certified and we use state-of-the-art equipment to extract water and moisture, promote drying, and clean and sanitize your home afterwards.

If you need service due to a flood, call our emergency line at (416) 985-4681 for urgent help.

Water damage caused by accidents such as burst pipes, leaks and flooding can quickly go from bad to worse if not handled properly. Without proper water damage restoration, you can experience some severe and expensive complications, including structural damage, hazardous mold growth, crippling repair costs, and loss of business revenue, if not handled in a timely and effective manner.

Contact A Water Damage Restoration Company Near You

When dealing with water damage, it’s extremely important to take the correct steps to avoid further damage.

• To mitigate the damage, call an experienced water restoration company with highly trained staff who can quickly start the restoration process.
• Touch With Care has over 19 years of experience in flood damage restoration in the GTA area.
• Act quickly to address the situation by calling Grandmother’s Touch’s emergency line at (416) 985-4681.

The Water Damage Restoration Process

Once the Grandmother’s Touch team arrives, we’ll begin the process for water mitigation and flood damage restoration. Here’s an overview of our process:

• Assess, inspect, and contain flood damage. Once we know what we’re dealing with, we can begin to tackle the question of how to dry carpet.
• Extract water and moisture to promote effective drying. We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques including wet-vacs, air movers, blowers, fans, and dehumidifiers
• Salvage and itemize belongings. We take measures to clean and sanitize furniture that can be salvaged or recommend items that should be replaced as they simply can’t be returned to a sanitary, usable state.
• Dry and dehumidify all damaged areas. Once the excess water has been removed, our trained technicians will commence with drying and/or a dehumidification process of the damaged area.
• Clean and sanitize affected areas. We clean and sanitize every area of the room including walls, baseboards, and furniture.
• Restore your business or office to its original state. If your commercial property has been damaged by a flood or other water issues, you need a qualified professional to help restore your business. Our trained team will help to get you back on your feet in no time!

Grandmother’s Touch: Top-Quality Water Damage Restoration Company Near You

Are you in need of water damage restoration for your commercial space? Call the experts today! The Touch With Care team will get you back on track after a flood with our 24/7 emergency line and expertly take care of any flood damage restoration. As a water restoration company, we can fulfill a wide variety of needs, regardless of the type or size of project. Contact us to find out how we can help you today!

Did you know that water damage caused by accidents such as burst pipes, water leaks and flooding can quickly go from bad to worse if not handled properly? Without calling for proper water damage restoration near you, you can end up with mouldy and damaged flooring. Worse still, if not handled timely, the water can seep into the unit below yours!

Here are just a few tips on how to deal with water damaged flooring. Remember, if you want to save your flooring from permanent damage, call a professional flood damage restoration service like Grandmother’s Touch.

Act fast and call flood damage restoration

The faster get someone to attend to your wet floors, the better shape you will be in once the flood damage restoration pros are done. However, if you are performing damage control on your own ensure that you have the proper tools and supplies on hand in order to act quickly, including:

• Shop vacuum
• Stiff brush
• Mild detergent, disinfectant, or TSP (trisodium phosphate), as needed
• Bucket
• Rubber gloves
• Absorbent cloth

Remove Surface Water

Turn your shop vacuum on “wet mode” using a wide flooring attachment on the vacuum hose to “suck” up as much surface water as possible from the floor.

Scrub the Floor

Mix a mild detergent and a compatible disinfectant with clean water in a bucket. Scrub the entire floor and all related woodwork with a stiff brush to remove all dirt, mud, silt and other grime.

Treat Areas That Are Mouldy

For areas that show mould growth, use TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a substitute. Mix it with water and scrub areas of mould until the mould and discoloration are gone. After that, rinse the surface with clean water and dry it with an absorbent cloth.

Dry the Floor

Dry the floor naturally and slowly with fans. Open the doors and windows to get plenty of airflow throughout the space. Keep in mind that you should dry the floor steadily but gradually as wood flooring dried too quickly can crack.

Call in the Professionals

The first rule of flood damage is to call experts who can take steps to prevent further damage to your floors. As an experienced water damage restoration company, our staff has the experience and tools to protect your flooring – whatever it is made of.

Grandmother’s Touch: Water Damage Restoration Near You

Have you experienced a recent flood in your home or workplace and require water damage restoration? If so, then we can help. As a flood damage restoration company, Touch With Care has over 20 years of experience helping everyday business owners take care of any water damage they encounter. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!