Friday, September 16, 2016

Sewage Backup Services

Call Us: (587) 400-1222

As creatures of habit, most of us have our days carefully laid out whether that be in a day planner or on the various apps available for download on our mobile devices. While these methods can prove handy and help us stay on task, the truth remains that unexpected surprises present themselves without warning. As a homeowner, these incidents can quickly change any upcoming plans, especially if you find yourself dealing with sewer backup Calgary.

When water damage presents itself in your home, it’s crucial that you act quickly. These types of problems won’t go away on their own, and every minute you procrastinate proper mitigation only results in further damage. Unfortunately, most homeowners aren’t equipped with the tools or experience to get the issue fixed right the first time, and this means further damage and costs later on down the road. The professional staff here at Rem Pros Calgary are here to help. We offer the expedient service you need at a price you can afford.

Quality Services to Meet Your Unique Needs

quality serviceWe have been in business long enough to know that there are a number of ways in which sewage backup manifests itself. Whether you are dealing with large-scale sewage backed up in basement or minor city sewer backup issues, we are capable of getting the job done. No job is too big or small, and we offer a number of services and features you can take advantage of including:

  • Complete assessment of the problem
  • Thorough repairs in order to save you money on replacement costs
  • Proper drying process using the latest drying technology to help reduce damages and costs
  • Round-the-clock service to ensure we are available whenever you may need our help
  • Free inspections to help you manage your budget as you work through this difficult situation

We see each of our customers as more than just another client. Our staff understands that you are facing a serious hardship, and that’s why we’re with you every step of the way. From start to finish, our compassionate specialists are there to walk you through the process and address any concerns you may have.

Understanding the Causes of Sewage Backup

home sewageIn order to best ensure you understand how this problem came to be, you should be aware of the various common causes of basement flooded with sewage and other similar issues. While each case is unique, there are a few instigators that we see on a regular basis, and there’s a good chance your issue started due to one of the following underlying problems:

  • You likely have an understanding that your sewage system is made up of a series of pipes that ultimately lead your waste away from the home. When these pipes become clogged, you can quickly find yourself with a backup issue. These issues can often be taken care of using common sewer tools or even products you can find at your local retailer. However, if every flush results in a backup, it’s likely you have a clog in the main sewer line, and this presents a much bigger issue.
  • Our lawns are the first thing people see when they drive by our houses, and we take time and effort into making sure they are properly maintained. Trees, however, when growing too closely to your sewage system, can present a serious problem. Oftentimes, growing roots can make their way into your pipes and cause holes and blockages. They can also grow around your sewer line and crush it completely.
  • If you live in an older home, there’s a chance that your lines were built using cast iron and clay piping. When this is the case, it’s not uncommon to experience broken, cracked or collapsed lines.

These are all serious issues, and they require a lot of hard work to correct. When you rely on the staff here at Rem Pros Calgary, however, we take the heavy lifting off your shoulders. There are few situations we have yet to encounter for the first time, and we get to work quickly getting your sewage system back in proper working order.

Steps to Take When Trouble Arises

understanding the sewage systemUnlike renters, homeowners are on their own when something goes wrong with their houses. This means they can suddenly be hit with enormous struggle and hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unexpected expenses. That’s why, when the drain is backing up in basement or heavy rains are threatening to cause sewage issues, it can be scary. However, don’t panic. There are a few steps you should be sure to follow to ensure you’re best able to get through this hurdle in your life.

  • Make the proper phone calls. Our staff makes basement sewer backup calls a priority, and we pride ourselves in our ability to make it to your site within just 45 minutes if you live within city limits. You should also alert the City of Calgary so they can assess your situation. They offer information on how to make such reports on their website.
  • Begin removing any valuable items you have that may be subject to sustaining damage. However, only enter the area if it’s safe to do so.
  • If internal plumbing is to blame, shut off the water main to prevent any further damage from occurring.
  • Turn off the electricity at the breaker to reduce the possibility of injury.
  • Using buckets or a sump pump, you may choose to begin extracting water to speed up the process as you wait for our arrival.

When it comes to water damage, every second counts, and our staff understands just how much you have to lose. While we pride ourselves in being prompt, we encourage you to take any measures possible in order to minimize losses.

Keep in mind, however, that sewage backup issues can present a number of hazards. If you aren’t sure or suspect entering the affected area could pose a risk, don’t chance it. We’ll be there quickly.

Saving Yourself Stress in the Future

backwater valve

Nobody wants to face a sewage backup once in their life, and they certainly don’t want for the problem to revisit them later on once it has already manifested. Rem Pros Calgary wants to make sure that you never need our services more than once, and that’s why we take it upon ourselves to help you understand and prepare for future issues before they arise. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and there are a number of small things you can do today to save yourself a lot of work, stress and money later.

  • Consider having a sewage backup water valve installed. These are placed directly into the sewer lateral in your basement, and they effectively close if sewage ever backs up from the main. If you are considering this investment, the Insurance Bureau of Canada offers information and advice on their website.
  • Install one-way drain plugs. They contain a special float that is activated when backflow occurs, and they prevent the sewage from coming through. They are also relatively inexpensive to purchase.
  • Install a standpipe into the floor drain where potential backup sewage can escape. This proves helpful for backup less than three feet deep.
  • For the most foolproof protection, consider installing an overhead sewer. This can be costly and requires the workmanship of a licensed plumber and a building permit, but it gives you the best protection against future occurrences.

It’s our goal that we are able to get your home back to proper working order, and our technicians want to make sure our work pays off for the long term. By implementing these helpful preventive measures, you can best ensure you won’t have to face another sewage backup anytime soon.

A Moment to Consider Mold

health risksMold is a common occurrence wherever there is a flooding or backup situation, and this is because it thrives in damp, dark environments. Even if your problem has only been in existence for a couple of hours, you run the risk of the development of mold, fungus, and spores in a very short period of time. When we arrive, our staff can assess the area, and we have the tools to detect if mold is present even if it’s not visible to the naked eye. Some common physical symptoms that indicate you may have mold include:

  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • Increased symptoms in those with asthma
  • Watery eyes
  • Stuffy/runny nose

Sewage Cleanup Calgary You Can Count On

call-1426809_1280This is obviously a difficult situation, but, when you work with us, we help you manage it and get through. Whether you’re dealing with severe sewer backup in basement during heavy rain or a broken line, we have the tools to get the job done.

Our IICRC certified specialists get to work quickly assessing the scope of the problem, and you can rely on our credentials as we are registered with both Homestars and the BBB. Best of all, we give you the security of knowing you have a five year guarantee on all the work we do, so give us a call today to reserve your free inspection.

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Sewage Backup Services Find more on: Calgary Remediation Pros

Basement Flooded? We Can Help

Call Us: (587) 400-1222

Life is full of challenges, and these hurdles help shape us into strong individuals capable of overcoming whatever comes our way. However, one of the most difficult obstacles to overcome is a flooded basement.

The basement lies at the foundation of your home, and failing to give the problem your prompt attention can lead to further damage and thousands more in costs. Not to mention, you also run the risk of the development of health hazards when mold, fungus, and spores are able to develop.

The scope of the problem is likely overwhelming, and, unless you have the tools and knowledge, it can be very difficult to get the job done right. That’s where our staff can help. We offer basement flood cleanup services in the area, and we have the latest equipment in the industry to quickly get the job done with the level of quality you deserve.

We understand the significant investment you made in your home, and that’s why we’ll do everything in our power to prioritize the work you need done.

The Many Reasons to Choose Rem Pros Calgary

approved-151676_1280Something about our business that gives us a sense of pride is that we’re locally owned and operated. This means that we have a vested interest in the community we serve, and you can take advantage of the fact that we’ll treat you like a member of our family. We make it a goal to help homeowners just like you in the area properly assess the damage as well as determine its extent.

A recent study revealed that homeowners who perceived their most recent damages as severe or very severe were far more likely to file a claim than homeowners who perceived their damages as minor or very minor. Those who did not were more inclined to ignore the problem until it became much worse.

Our staff gets to work to ensure you don’t become another statistic. We understand that money can be tight, and, all too often, homeowners choose to ignore the problem because they don’t think they can afford it. That’s why we offer help to ensure you don’t spend any more than you have to.

Our free initial quote allows you to better prepare for the costs to come while also avoiding additional expenses that inevitably arise when the situation is left to fester. We can even help you document the damage to make things easier when you get in contact with your insurance provider.

Flood Damaged Walls

dilapidated-983952_1280In the basement flood and restoration business, we’ve seen enough damage to know that one of the most vulnerable areas of your basement is the walls. This is because they’re typically made from porous material such as drywall that is highly susceptible to water damage.

Ceilings and floors can also prove to be difficult problem areas. That’s why our staff gets started focusing on these areas quickly. When we arrive at your home, we’ll thoroughly inspect the entirety of the basement flooding and determine the level of severity to develop the best plan of action. Our flooded basement drywall repair protocol is as follows:

  • Wash out any mud, dirt, and debris.
  • Remove wallboard, plaster, and paneling up to flood-level. These materials act as a sponge, and any contaminated water that is soaked up can pose health threats.
  • Assess areas of the wall that can be salvaged to keep your prices low.
  • Perform basement flood repair and replacement services to get your basement back in business.

We understand how highly stressful basement flooding can be, and that’s why our contractors work with you directly during every point of the process. We make it a goal to keep you updated throughout the various stages we go through to ensure you are aware of our action plan and what to expect next.

Basement Flooding Causes

13601207_mBasement flooding can be difficult to avoid, and that’s because there are so many different causes. As a homeowner, it’s up to you to keep your home maintained, and understanding aspects of your home that could provide an optimal scenario for the development of an emergency basement flooding incident can put you ahead of the game. Just a few of the common catalysts include:

  • The home may have simply been built in an unsuitable area. If your home sits on a lower elevation on your estate, this means rainwater naturally drains toward it, making it more susceptible to basement flooding. It is worth noting that, over time, leveling due to erosion can fix this problem.
  • Poor sealings at floors and walls.
  • Blockage in the guttering system. In this case, call your local water authority and a professional basement flood damage repair technician as the blockage can cause significant damage to the overall structural integrity of your home.
  • Drainage system is improperly installed.

A seemingly insignificant detail can be the cause of significant flooding, and that’s why it’s important to have the professionals assess the scene. We have the latest tools in the industry, and we can get to the bottom of your problem even if it is hard to pinpoint.

Who Should I Call If My Basement is Flooded?

call-1426809_1280Let’s face it. When we notice that there is a flooding situation in the basement, it can be hard not to panic. After all, this is the base of the home, and we all know how much damage standing water can cause.

Time is of essence in these situations, and it’s important not to let a minute go to waste. The first thing you should do is pick up the phone and contact the professionals. This is because the consequences of flooding develop quickly. In fact, the early stages of mold can begin forming within just hours.

When you work with our staff, you’ll quickly realize that we take your situation personally, and we get there quickly in order to ensure minimal damages are sustained. In fact, if you live within Calgary city limits, you can expect one of our skilled professionals to arrive at your home within 45 minutes.

Best of all, we understand that these situations don’t arise on a typical schedule, and that’s why we make ourselves available 24/7 to ensure we’re there to take the call whenever you may need our help.

What to Do If Your Basement is Flooded

question-mark-160071_1280Once our staff arrives, we immediately begin taking the necessary remediation steps. However, when every second counts, there are things you can do to ensure every possible action to salvage your belongings and your home’s structure is performed. While you wait for our arrival, you are encouraged to:

  • Turn off the electricity at the breaker to reduce the risk of shock.
  • Turn off the water main if the flooding was a result of internal plumbing to eliminate further issues.
  • Remove valuables from the impacted area to minimize damage if this can be safely accomplished.
  • If you own a sump pump, you can get a head-start on the extraction process. If not, you could also begin removing water using buckets.

It’s crucial to stay ahead of further damage, and these steps can help get the remediation process started. When our staff arrives, however, we can take over using the latest tools in the industry along with our years of knowledge.

How to Prevent Basement Flooding in the Future

A flooded basement can prove to be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Whether you just finished the remediation process or simply want to employ preventive measures to best ensure you don’t fall victim in the first place, there are a few steps you can take:

  • Make a hole in one of the basement walls to allow potential flooding an escape route.
  • For sewage backup relief, install a check valve.
  • At least twice per year, take some time to clean out all the gutters, extend rain gutter downspouts, and perform any other maintenance necessary.
  • If you have trees located close to your sewage line, have them inspected to see if their rooting system could become problematic. It is sometimes necessary to have these trees removed to avoid serious problems.

For more helpful tips as well as information regarding the action the City of Calgary takes to prevent flooding, visit their website.

Quality Work at a Price You Can Afford

priceThis is a trying time for your family, and it can be difficult to find the support you need. Our staff is here to offer a shoulder to lean on, and we can help lead you to the light at the end of the tunnel. From documenting damage for insurance purposes to replacing heavily damaged walls and more, we’re here to help you explore your options and get your home back to normal working order.

We understand these situations catch you by surprise, and that’s why we help you manage your budget by offering a free initial inspection. This allows us to provide you a reasonable quote to help you work this unexpected work into your finances. We also offer:

  • Senior discounts
  • Five-year guarantee
  • Expedited services for emergency situations

Your home is your castle, and we make it our goal to maintain its integrity. You can rely on our credentials as we are certified with the Institution of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration and members of the BBB and Homestars, so call today to schedule for your free quote.

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Basement Flooded? We Can Help See more on: Calgary Remediation Pros Website

Friday, June 3, 2016

Cleaning Up After A Flood: Tips For Restoring Your Home

After Missouri saw devastating floods in the early and mid 1990s, the University of Missouri Extension office built a library of extensive resources to help Missourians cope with the aftermath of such a tragedy.

1. Keep children, sick family members and pets out of the flood-affected area until cleanup is completed. Before entering the home, make sure you are up-to-date with your immunizations such as tetanus.

2. Before beginning any cleanup, make sure you have the proper personal protection. You should wear rubber boots, rubber gloves and goggles during cleanup of the home. Make sure you wear a mask with an N-95 (not oil resistant, but filters at least 95 percent of airborne particles) or P-100 label (oil proof and filters at least 99.97 percent of airborne particles). If you can afford one, a half-facepiece respirator with removable cartridges is preferred instead of a mask.


3. Some badly soaked upholstered furniture that has been submerged may be impossible to salvage. If the piece of furniture seems worth the effort to save, see pages 5, 16 and 17 of MU Extension publication MP904, Resources for Your Flooded Home, for directions on cleaning. Mattresses can be sent to a commercial renovating company for cleaning and disinfecting; however, it could cost less to buy a good reconditioned or new mattress. Other items such as cosmetics, stuffed animals, baby toys, pillows, foam-rubber items, books, wall coverings and most paper products should be removed and discarded. For pillows and stuffed animals that have not been badly soaked, follow cleaning and disinfecting directions on pages 5 and 6 of MP904.

4. Remove and discard drywall and insulation that has been submerged and contaminated with sewage, floodwaters or mold.

5. Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks and other plumbing fixtures) with hot water and laundry or dish detergent. Allow these surfaces to dry thoroughly before disinfecting. You can speed up the drying process by using fans and dehumidifiers.