We offer free on-site inspections and estimates. What does this mean?

We come on-site to inspect a project before we can estimate accurately. This gives us an opportunity to meet with our clients, set expectations, explain our process and answer questions before any work is performed. We want project scope and cost to be accurate and fair to all parties.

We guarantee our work. What does this mean?

We set realistic expectations and outcomes based on experience and training. If we set an expectation, we meet it or try to exceed it. If we make a promise, we follow through. If we make a mistake, we fix it. It's that simple.

If my house or business floods, can't I just take care of it myself?

Time is of the essence when you are dealing with unwanted water in your home or business. For the untrained first-timer, there is little time for overcoming mistakes that will more frequently end up costing more money in the end. Knowing what material is wet and needs to be removed and what material is dry or can be dried in place takes specialized training and equipment.

My house or business flooded, and my insurance company wants me to use one of their approved contractors. Will this be a problem if I don't use their contractor?

You have the right to choose your contractor. Team Newman uses the same billings software and standards as most insurance companies. We work directly with your insurance company to reach an agreement.

No, this is a conflict of interest. It is important that a third party testing/reporting company provides a remediation plan to the remediation company to avoid any question of controversy. We set high ethical standards and pride ourselves in doing right, even when no one is watching.

How often should I have my carpets cleaned?

It's recommended carpet is cleaned once per year by an IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification) certified firm. Clean carpet doesn't just look good - it promotes indoor air quality, reduces health risks and extends the carpeting's life as well. Special conditions may call for more-frequent cleaning.

How often should I have my air ducts cleaned?

NADCA (National Air Duct Cleaners Association) suggests cleaning your ducts every 3 to 5 years. There are many reasons and contributing factors to consider. For example; if you have pets, moving into a new home, after building a new home or living close to a development where new homes are being built, or if residents experience allergic reactions in the home.

Blog | Restoration and Cleaning | Newman Restoration

Prevent Window Well Water Leakage

October 24, 2024 | Blog

A leak in the window well of the basement can be a source of major property damage. Le-Squeegee is here with some helpful hints to prevent property damage originating from a leaking window well.

Ensure proper drainage away from windows – One way to prevent a window well from leaking is to make sure water does not reach it. If a downspout drains near a window well it can saturate the ground and enter a crack near the window. Extend downspouts away from a window well to prevent the ground around it from becoming saturated.

Keep window wells free from debris – Debris can block water from properly draining away from the window well. Also, debris can build up and cause damage to the window seal and glass.

Inspect windows regularly – Window seals can become damaged and be an entryway for outside water. Re-caulk windows when necessary to ensure they do not leak. Excess water in a window can cause the frame to warp or rot, so it is also important to check if there has been excessive damage.

Inspect for foundation cracks – A foundation crack can originate near a window well. They most often occur from the corner of the window and can be the entry way for water if the ground becomes oversaturated.

Invest in window well covers – A window well cover can prevent debris from damaging the window. It is an investment that can prevent a major problem.

Check insurance options for water damage from an outside source – In some cases, water damage will not be covered if it comes from an outside source. It can be a worthwhile investment that provides peace-of-mind.

Preparing Your Home for Fall

September 27, 2024 | News

Don’t let this week’s warm weather fool you- it’s officially Fall, and cold weather is right around the corner. The remaining sunny days is a perfect time to prepare your home for the changing weather. These preparation and maintenance tips will help ensure your home’s systems are in top shape and will help prevent potential issues with water damage and mold.

1. Clean Chimney, Vents, and Air Ducts:

Chimney: Creosote buildup can be an ignition source for a dangerous house fire. A professional chimney sweep will remove dangerous buildups and help the smoke draft properly.
Dryer Vents: This service should be performed once a year and it’s a good idea do it in the fall. The cooler temperatures and weather conditions lead to more condensation in the pipe due to the warm air exhausting out the vent. With the condensation and lint build-up, it’s more likely to clog and be harder to clean in the future.
Clean Air Duct System: A clean duct system allows the warm air to travel throughout the entire home in an efficient manner. It also saves on wear and tear for the HVAC system. Team Newman recommends having a professional duct cleaning every three years. Also- Clean or replace air filters to improve efficiency and air quality.

2. Remove Debris from Gutters, Window Wells, and Around the Home

Gutters: Cleaning out the gutters can allow the rain and snowmelt to drain properly and reduce the chance of an ice dam and water damage to your home.
Window Wells: Remove any debris that has built up in window wells. They can easily damage windows in bad weather.
Around the Home: Yard debris built up around the property can prevent proper drainage. If water is not allowed to flow away from the property it can saturate the ground and can cause water damage through faults in the foundation.

3.Seal Windows and Doors, Inspect Roof

Weather Stripping: Replace any worn-out or missing weather stripping around doors and windows. This will help keep drafts and water leaks out.
Roof: Inspect for loose or damaged shingles and flashing. Water can infiltrate these vulnerable areas and lead to water damage and water leaks.

With these simple tips, you can ensure your home is comfortable and safe as you embrace all the beauty and festivities that fall has in store. If you need any services or have any questions regarding potential water damage or mold damage issues on your property, give the professionals at Newman Restoration a call. We are glad to help! Happy fall prepping!

Understanding Smoke Damage and the Importance of Professional Smoke Restoration

September 12, 2024 | Blog

When a fire occurs, the immediate damage is often visible—the charred remains, the soot-coated walls, and the lingering smell of smoke. However, the real danger can be less apparent: smoke damage. This can permeate materials and structures, leading to long-term health risks and costly repairs if not addressed properly. That’s where professional smoke restoration comes into play. Here’s a deep dive into what smoke damage entails and why engaging professionals is crucial for effective restoration.

What is Smoke Damage?

Smoke damage is the result of smoke particles and soot spreading throughout a property after a fire. These particles are tiny and can infiltrate every nook and cranny, settling on surfaces and getting absorbed into materials. Smoke damage can manifest in several ways: soot residue, odor, and discoloration & staining. Smoke particles contain chemicals that can be harmful to health, especially for those with respiratory conditions or allergies.

The Complex Nature of Smoke Damage

Unlike fire damage, which is often more obvious and easier to assess, smoke damage is insidious. It can affect areas not directly exposed to the flames, including:

HVAC Systems: Smoke can infiltrate ductwork and ventilation systems, leading to the spread of smoke particles throughout the property.
Insulation: Porous materials like insulation can absorb smoke, trapping it and causing ongoing odor issues.
Structural Components: Wood, drywall, and other materials can absorb smoke, which might not be apparent until long after the fire has been extinguished.

Why Professional Smoke Restoration is Essential

Addressing smoke damage is not a DIY job. It’s crucial that when hiring a professional restoration company, they are certified through the IICRC with a specific certificate pertaining to fire and smoke damage restoration. This certificate is known as FSRT (Fire and Smoke Restoration Technician). Here’s why professional smoke restoration is crucial:

Comprehensive Assessment: Professionals use specialized equipment to assess the extent of the damage. This includes thermal imaging cameras, smoke detectors, and air quality monitors to ensure no area is overlooked.
Advanced Cleaning Techniques: Restoration experts employ advanced cleaning techniques and specialized cleaning agents designed to remove soot and smoke particles from various surfaces, including delicate materials that might be damaged by conventional cleaning methods.
Odor Removal: Eliminating smoke odor requires more than just airing out the space. Professionals use ozone generators, thermal fogging, and other techniques to neutralize and remove persistent odors.
Restoration and Repair: Beyond cleaning, professionals can handle repairs and restoration, including replacing damaged materials, restoring structural integrity, and ensuring the property is safe and livable. Professional restoration companies know when it’s important to involve a structural engineer so the property can be restored safely and be structurally sound for many years to come.
Health and Safety: Professional restorers understand the health risks associated with smoke damage and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and the occupants. The use of AFD’s (air filtration devices) are used to remove hazardous particles from the air when they are disturbed through the cleaning and restoration process. They ensure that all safety protocols are followed to avoid further contamination.
Insurance Coordination: Restoration companies often work with insurance companies to handle claims, ensuring that the restoration process is covered and that you’re not left with unexpected expenses. In fact, when making a property claim, both the insurance company and the financial institute may require a licensed/certified restoration company to perform the necessary repairs.
Future Property Transactions:If the property is restored to the industry standard, a certified firm can provide a certificate of professional restoration that can be used when selling the property.

The Process of Smoke Restoration

The smoke restoration process generally involves several key steps:

Assessment and Inspection: A thorough inspection to determine the extent of smoke damage and develop a restoration plan.
Containment: Setting up barriers and negative air pressure systems to prevent smoke particles from spreading to unaffected areas.
Cleaning and Decontamination: Removing soot and smoke residues from surfaces, textiles, and other materials using specialized cleaning agents and equipment.
Odor Removal: Employing techniques like ozone treatment or thermal fogging to eliminate lingering smoke odors.
Restoration and Repair: Repairing or replacing damaged structural elements, finishes, and materials.
Final Inspection: Ensuring that all damage has been addressed and that the property is safe and habitable.

Conclusion

Smoke damage is more than just a visual nuisance; it poses significant health risks and can lead to long-term property issues if not properly addressed. Professional smoke restoration services are essential to ensure that your property is thoroughly cleaned, repaired, and restored to its pre-damage condition. By engaging experts, you can safeguard your health, protect your investment, and bring your space back to its best.

If you’ve experienced a fire, don’t underestimate the importance of professional restoration. The sooner you act, the better the chances of minimizing damage and ensuring a safe and healthy environment for you and your loved ones.

Understanding the Causes of Wildfires and the Importance of Professional Fire and Smoke Restoration

September 5, 2024 | News

Wildfires have become an increasingly urgent concern, wreaking havoc on ecosystems, properties, and communities. Understanding the causes of wildfires is crucial in mitigating their impact, and equally important is recognizing the need for professional fire and smoke restoration after such disasters.

Causes of Wildfires

Wildfires can be ignited by both natural and human activities, with the latter causing most fires. Understanding these causes can help in devising better prevention strategies.

The leading natural cause in our region is lightning. When lightning strikes a dry area, it can ignite vegetation and lead to wildfire.

Human Activities that cause wildfires are campfires, cigarettes, faulty power lines or electrical equipment, burning debris and fields, fireworks, and vehicles and equipment. Understanding the human activities that cause wildfires can aid in prevention efforts. Prevention efforts include, but are not limited to; extinguishing campfires and barbeques completely; not igniting fireworks around dry vegetation; ensuring conditions are optimal and under control when burning debris and fields; properly maintaining vehicles and equipment, making sure exhaust pipes are clear and nothing is dragging that can create a spark; and also, do not drive over dry vegetation if you can help it.

The Importance of Professional Fire and Smoke Restoration

When a wildfire has ravaged an area, the immediate response often focuses on extinguishing the fire and ensuring safety. However, the aftermath requires meticulous and expert attention to restore properties and environments affected by fire and smoke. Here’s why professional fire and smoke restoration is crucial:

1. Comprehensive Damage Assessment

Professionals conduct a thorough assessment of the damage, including structural integrity and smoke contamination. This assessment is essential for developing a targeted restoration plan that addresses both visible and hidden damage.

2. Effective Smoke Removal

Smoke can penetrate building materials and furnishings, leaving behind unpleasant odors and potential health hazards. Professional restoration services use specialized equipment and techniques, such as ozone generators and thermal fogging, to effectively remove smoke odors and residue.

3. Structural Repair and Safety

Fire can compromise the structural integrity of buildings. Professional restorers are trained to identify and repair structural damage, ensuring that the building is safe for occupancy. They also handle debris removal and repair or replace damaged materials.

4. Prevention of Secondary Damage

Water used to extinguish fires can cause additional damage, such as mold growth and deterioration of building materials. Professional restoration includes addressing water damage and preventing mold development, which can be a long-term issue if not managed properly.

5. Insurance and Documentation

Restoration professionals often work closely with insurance companies to provide documentation and support claims. They ensure that all damage is accurately reported, and that the restoration work is conducted to meet insurance requirements.

6. Restoration of Affected Areas

Beyond structural repairs, restoration includes cleaning and restoring personal belongings, furniture, and other contents that may have been damaged by smoke or fire. Professionals use advanced cleaning methods to salvage and restore items whenever possible.

7. Emotional and Psychological Support

The aftermath of a wildfire can be overwhelming for homeowners and communities. Professional restorers often provide guidance and support throughout the recovery process, helping individuals navigate the challenges and stress associated with rebuilding and restoration.

Home Improvement Safety for your Summer Projects

August 2, 2024 | News

The summer is a popular time for home improvement projects. Safety Lifestyle is one of our Core Values and Team Newman has a few safety tips to help make sure your home renovation is a success.

Be on the lookout for hazardous building materials – Asbestos and lead paint can be harmful even in small doses. If you are renovating a building built before 1980, be aware of asbestos. Asbestos can be found in drywall, textured surfacing (popcorn ceilings), siding, insulating materials, laminate flooring, floor tiles and mastic. It is best to contact an asbestos expert before starting a renovation on an older home. Newman Restoration can help identify possible asbestos containing materials and conduct asbestos testing. Along with asbestos, lead paint can be found in older homes. At home lead paint test kits can work if administered properly. However, contacting a lead paint professional is never a bad idea.

Wear proper clothing to protect yourself – Use safety glasses when cutting or drilling. Wear a respirator when sanding. These are good steps to help keep your lungs and eyes protected. Be careful of baggy clothing which can catch on power tools. Also, if working outside, take frequent breaks to avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion.

Follow instructions and safety recommendations – Use power tools and equipment only in ways for which they have been designed. Improper use of tools and ladders is a common cause of injury. Having a first aid kit and knowing where it is located is crucial before starting a home improvement project.

Develop a plan first, don’t start with digging or cutting into walls – Home renovation can cause a big mess. Do not cut or tear walls without having a plastic containment system. It is very easy to create a large mess in only a few minutes. Be aware of possible electrical and plumbing built into walls, as a small cut can cause major damage. It is also a good idea to have a plan before digging. Even professionals can make a mistake when digging outside. If you aren’t sure what is underneath the ground, call 8-1-1 before you dig. Please look at the forecast before you start a major outdoor project. Loose dirt and gravel can wash away into window wells during a heavy rain storm.

Know when to leave it to a professional – their training, experience, and background knowledge are paramount. Many aspects of remodeling can be complicated and dangerous. While it may be an unwanted upfront cost, leaving some work to the professionals can often save time and money.

The Crucial Role of Professional Fire Damage Restoration

July 26, 2024 | News

One of the immediate benefits of professional fire damage restoration is the swift response it provides. Trained experts understand the urgency of the situation and act promptly to assess the extent of the damage. This quick assessment allows them to develop a comprehensive restoration plan tailored to the specific needs of the property. From salvaging valuable items to mitigating further damage, every step is crucial in preventing secondary issues like mold growth or structural instability.

Expertise and Experience

Fire damage restoration is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and skills. The professionals at Newman Restoration undergo training and certification to handle the intricacies of fire damage—from dealing with soot and smoke residues to repairing water damage caused by firefighting efforts. Their expertise ensures that every aspect of restoration is addressed thoroughly and efficiently, minimizing disruptions and expediting the recovery process.

Comprehensive Restoration

Beyond the visible damage, fire can affect a property in multifaceted ways. Smoke can penetrate deep into walls and furnishings, leaving behind odors and residues that are challenging to eradicate without proper equipment and techniques. Newman Restoration employs advanced technologies such as ozone treatments and thermal fogging to neutralize odors and sanitize affected areas effectively.

Emotional Support and Guidance

The aftermath of a fire can be emotionally overwhelming for property owners and occupants. Team Newman not only restores physical spaces, but also provides emotional support and guidance throughout the process. They understand the trauma associated with fire incidents and approach their work with empathy and compassion, helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives.

Preserving Value and Investment

For homeowners and businesses, property is often one of the most significant investments. The team at Newman Restoration helps preserve the value of this investment by restoring the property to its pre-loss condition or better. This not only maintains the property’s market value but also ensures that insurance claims are handled efficiently, with thorough documentation of the restoration process.

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

Safety is paramount in fire damage restoration. Team Newman adheres to industry standards and safety protocols to ensure that the restoration process is conducted safely for all involved. This includes addressing structural integrity issues, electrical hazards, and potential contaminants in the environment. By prioritizing safety and compliance, restoration experts create a secure environment for occupants and workers alike.

Why You Need Personal Protective Equipment for Your Home Remodel

July 11, 2024 | News

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is not just for the professionals or for OSHA compliance. It is a necessary part of any home remodel and something that should be understood and budgeted for in your project. Here at Newman Restoration, one of our core values is “Safety Lifestyle”, and we are here to share some tips to keep you safe.

Respiratory protection – There are many facets and levels of respiratory protection that need to be understood before tackling a home remodel project. These go from the most basic level of dust protection all the way to guarding against harmful carcinogens.

It is important to be aware of the possibility of asbestos containing material during your home remodel (see our last blog). In addition to asbestos, lead paint can be disturbed during the demolition process. In general, drywall dust is a severe irritant and anyone around the removal of drywall should be using a respirator with a particulate filter.
Drywall dust can cause severe irritation in a short exposure window. Asbestos, lead and mold can cause long term illness. Make sure everyone who is around a home remodel is taking the necessary steps to prevent exposure with respiratory protection.

Eye protection – According to OSHA, thousands of people are blinded in work related injuries that could have been prevented with proper eye protection. Many home remodelers believe their prescription glasses or sunglasses can protect them from an injury but this is not true. Proper eye protection will have Z87 stamped somewhere on the frame of the lense.

Using eye protection during a home remodel project is a must. Debris from demolition, flying debris from power tools and falling debris can all damage eyes. Most of these risks are continually present during a project, which means eye protection should be worn basically at all times.

Hand protection – Cuts, punctures and chemical burns are all possible hazards of a home improvement project. The area of your body most susceptible to these injuries are your hands. It is important to handle each risk with the appropriate type of hand protection.

Are you planning on using chemicals to clean or strip paint during your home improvement project? If so, chemical resistant rubber or latex gloves must be used to prevent burns or irritation on the skin.
In addition to possible chemical irritants, cuts and punctures are a major concern. A pair of cut proof gloves are necessary for almost all home improvement projects.
Another aspect of hand protection is for the glove to fit properly. Loose fitting gloves and clothing pose a significant risk. Loose material can get stuck in power tools and cause serious damage to the user.

Understanding the hierarchy of controls – While PPE is necessary for home remodeling work, it is important to understand where it sits on the hierarchy of controls. PPE is at the bottom and is the least effective part of the hierarchy of controls.

Reliance on PPE can make work more dangerous. Before starting a hazardous task, be sure to think about these questions. Is there a way the hazard can be eliminated? Is there a way to substitute for the hazard? Can you isolate yourself away from the hazard? Is there a way to change how people are working to avoid the hazard? The answers to these questions can drastically reduce the chance of a specific hazard harming a worker or homeowner.

Newman Restoration wants you safe for any DIY home remodeling. As always, call us if you need professional remodeling help!

Asbestos Containing Materials in a Home Remodel

June 28, 2024 | News

Are you considering a home remodel or update? Is your home built before 1980? If so, you need to account for the possibility of asbestos containing materials in your home. Removing or damaging these materials comes with possible serious health implications. Team Newman is here with some information on possible asbestos containing materials that can be found in an older home.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral used in building materials for resistance to heat and corrosion. It is now recognized as a serious hazard to human health and regulated strictly by government organizations. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled and cause serious lung damage and disease. This is why it is important to identify asbestos risks, test and remediate before demolition is done in any home remodeling project.

The most common places to find asbestos in a residential property are textured wall surfacings, drywall joint compound, floor tiles, mastic, linoleum and insulation. These materials should be tested prior to removal. If asbestos is detected, the removal of the items should be handled by a certified asbestos abatement contractor. At Newman Restoration & Cleaning, we have certified asbestos abatement contractors and inspectors.

One common project for a home update is to scrape off popcorn ceilings. Before scraping off any popcorn ceilings or textured wall coverings, it is imperative to have it tested for asbestos. It is common to find asbestos in textured wall coverings and the process of scraping them can create airborne asbestos fibers, which are very dangerous.

Another common home improvement project that can bring in the risk of asbestos contamination is updating flooring. Floor tiles, linoleum and the mastic underneath them can all contain asbestos. 9’x9’ and 12’x12’ tiles are the most common sizes for containing asbestos in pre 1980 homes. The processes of removing tiles, linoleum or the mastic underneath can release asbestos fibers. However, if these materials have not been damaged or compromised over time, they can often be left in place and covered by new flooring.

Asbestos can also be found in insulating materials. This includes insulation found in the walls, attics and around pipes. It was common for pipes and boilers to be wrapped in asbestos insulation. Vermiculite attic insulation may also contain trace amounts of asbestos.

In addition to wall insulation, wallboard and wallboard systems can be asbestos containing. The wallboard itself and the joint compound and tape are suspect materials for asbestos. It is important to have it tested before demolition. There are also miscellaneous materials around an older home that can be asbestos containing. Roofing and siding, ceiling panels and tiles, and caulking are suspect materials.

Navigating Summer Disasters

June 6, 2024 | News

We all love the warmer weather, but summer brings its own set of challenges, from fierce storms to sweltering heatwaves, all of which can wreak havoc on homes and businesses. In this blog post, Newman Restoration will explore some of the common summer disasters that disaster restoration companies face.

Storm Damage: Summer storms can bring high winds, torrential rain, and lightning strikes, all of which pose significant risks to properties. From fallen trees to flooded basements, storm damage can range from minor inconveniences to major disasters. Disaster restoration companies must be prepared to respond swiftly to mitigate further damage and restore affected properties to their pre-loss condition.
Flood Cleanup: Heavy rainfall and flash floods are common during the summer months, especially in areas prone to flooding. Floodwater can cause extensive damage to structures, belongings, and electrical systems, posing health and safety risks to occupants. Disaster restoration companies play a crucial role in water extraction, drying, and disinfection to prevent mold growth and structural deterioration.
Fire Hazards: Summer heatwaves increase the risk of wildfires, particularly in dry, arid regions. Wildfires can spread rapidly, engulfing homes and businesses in their path and leaving behind a trail of destruction. Disaster restoration companies must be prepared to assist affected communities with fire damage cleanup, smoke odor removal, and structural repairs.
HVAC Failures: As temperatures soar, air conditioning systems work overtime to keep indoor spaces cool and comfortable. However, prolonged use and inadequate maintenance can lead to HVAC failures, resulting in indoor flooding, mold growth, and water damage. Disaster restoration companies can provide emergency services to restore functionality and prevent further damage. Homeowners and businesses are encouraged to schedule routine HVAC inspections and maintenance checks before the start of the summer season as preventative maintenance.

Summer disasters can pose significant risk for property owners. Certified and trusted companies like Newman Restoration are prepared and equipped with the right tools and expertise to restore your home or business to its previous state.

Common Issues with Egress Windows

May 24, 2024 | News

Rain storms can cause issues with egress windows and result in a water intrusion. Team Newman has a few tips and suggestions to prevent water damage from an egress window.

Safety first – It is important to have a covering over window wells to protect children and pets from failing. A covering can also stop debris from falling into the window well and causing damage.

Proper drainage – Drainage is one of the main issues regarding egress windows. Whether it is landscaping or a drain system, ensuring proper draining is of vital importance. If a yard is sloped towards a window well, it could cause problems and will often require a landscaper to divert the flow of water away from any windows. A flooded egress window will often lead to issues.

Prevent from getting submerged – When an egress window is submerged in water, it will often start to leak. When a window well fills with water, the water will find the path of least resistance, which is often through the window and into the home.

Proper gravel or drain system – Depending on the situation, all a window well needs to avoid flooding is the proper amount of gravel at the base. However, a drain system may be required to divert water out of the window well. If your windows do have a drain system, ensure it remains clear of debris so it can function properly.

A common spot for foundation issues – Foundation cracks often start off the corner of a window. If the ground below an egress window becomes saturated, water can force its way through the foundation crack.

Newman Restoration wants to help you prevent any flooding or water damage to your home or property. If you find any water or signs of water damage, call our certified professionals to help you get the problem mitigated appropriately.