As evidenced by this summer’s rash of wildfires raging across America, fires are a scary phenomenon. Wildfire, in fact, is a natural phenomenon that is somewhat predictable; the U.S. Fire Administration reports that more than 1.3 million fires that aren’t due to wildfires kill more than 3,000 people each year, cause more than 15,000 injuries, and cost nearly $15 billion in losses. Let’s take a closer look. What Causes Fires? If we understand what causes fires, […]
damage
August 20, 2018
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), there have been more than 20 “significant” earthquakes in 2018 alone including a 7.9 magnitude earthquake southeast of Kodiak, Alaska and a string of quakes up to 6.9 on Hawaii. When we talk about the “Big One,” most people envision disasters in coastal California or amid the rainy streets of Seattle, Washington, but the truth is that an earthquake can happen anywhere. Between climate change and man-made interventions […]
November 20, 2017
In all the time that the United States has recorded weather, there have always been those rare winter blizzards that exceed all forecasts, break weather records, and cause mass devastation on an unprecedented scale. Here are some of the biggest winter storms in American history. 1. The Blizzard of 1888: “The Great White Hurricane” (March 11-14, 1888) There are entire websites devoted to this whopper of a storm that paralyzed New York in the […]
October 23, 2017
In the aftermath of hurricanes Irma, Harvey, and Maria, many American homeowners are struggling to learn how to cope with water damage restoration, meaning the technical processes needed to repair a home that has suffered a flood or other water-related destruction. However, water damage restoration is a complex business and it’s easy for laymen homeowners to miss important steps in the process during the rush to clean up. Even a burst pipe can cost […]
April 11, 2016
Spring season is typically known for rain – hence April showers bring May flowers. And rain water isn’t a huge risk to your home if there is not rainfall on a consistent basis. But, when the rainstorms are heavy and occur several days in a row, your home can be exposed to long-term rain damage. Roof Inspection Your roof is the first line of defense against most weather conditions, especially rain. Check your roof […]
March 28, 2016
If you’ve ever found yourself wanting to do a home improvement project on your own, you are not alone. Oftentimes people take on these home improvement projects to cut down on costs. But for some projects, you have to ask yourself if you are really saving money doing it yourself versus hiring a professional. DIY vs Hiring a Professional 1. Have I ever done a project similar to this before? If you are not […]
February 15, 2016
Schools, homes, apartment complexes, and businesses are all susceptible to mold and mildew growth. Mold grows off of water and survives on food sources (leaves, wood, paper, and dirt), oxygen, and temperatures between 40° and 100° Fahrenheit. So essentially, mold can be found anywhere. In your home, outside, and in almost any environment. Humidity and moisture in the air will invite mold into your home. And if mold spores land on a moist spot […]
February 1, 2016
Termites, also known as “silent destroyers,” are some of the most destructive and prevalent bugs to cause damage to your home. There are several types of termites, with the most common being the subterranean termites and drywood termites. Subterranean termites can be found in every state, with the exception of Alaska, and cause approximately 95% of all termite damage throughout the United States. Drywood termites typically inhabit southern climates. Termite Damage Termites feed on […]
December 21, 2015
Carbon Monoxide, also known as the Silent Killer, has contributed to more than 400 deaths per year. Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a gas that is both odorless and colorless. Because it is not obvious to our five senses, it is extremely dangerous and life threatening. Symptoms of CO Poisoning Everyone is at risk of CO poisoning, but it is especially dangerous for infants, the elderly, and those with asthma. Since it is not easily […]
December 7, 2015
If there’s one place where you want to be comfortable, it’s in your home. But a high level of humidity can really lower your level of comfort. Depending on the amount of moisture in your home, a dehumidifier might be just what you need to fix those levels and get you back into the comfort zone. What’s a Dehumidifier? Put simply, a dehumidifier reduces the moisture in the air. When there is humidity in […]