HOLLY SPRINGS RESTORATION COMPANY

As winter arrives and the weather turns frigid, we focus on keeping ourselves and our loved ones warm and cozy inside our homes. We do this by keeping the heaters on and staying indoors unless it’s necessary to step out in the cold. But while you’re in bed underneath warm blankets and enjoying some hot coco, a plumbing crisis could be brewing silently in your home and damaging your pipes without you even knowing.  We are, of course, talking about dreaded frozen pipes. Even though frozen pipes are quite common in places that experience harsh winters, it still catches many people off-guard. Frozen pipes can escalate into a major plumbing emergency and flood your home, among other things.  Want to learn more about frozen pipes, how they occur, and the potential impact they can have on your home? In this blog, we uncover everything you need to know.  How Frozen Pipes Come About Water pipes constantly have water in them. This isn’t a problem during the warmer months because water can flow freely from the source and out of your faucets and water fixtures. Unfortunately, in winter, the drop in temperature can freeze the water inside your pipes. This is why exterior pipes in places that experience freezing winters require insulation. It is one of the many techniques used in construction to prevent water pipes from freezing.  What Happens When Your Pipes Freeze? Water expands as it freezes, taking up more space the colder the temperature gets. If there’s a lot of water inside a pipe, there’s a greater risk that the ice will expand beyond the pipe’s capacity to hold.  But the expanding ice isn’t the only problem. Immense pressure also builds up as the water freezes, pressing on the inner walls and compromising their structural integrity. If the ice continues to expand, the pipes can crack or split even if they’re not entirely frozen solid inside. Broken pipes are a big problem in and of themselves. Extracting the damaged pipes and replacing them with new ones can be expensive. However, an even bigger problem looms once winter ends and the weather gets hotter. As the warmer climate melts the ice, water will leak through the cracks and breaks, causing all kinds of damage to your property: Damaged furniture and gadgets due to sudden indoor flooding Water damage like discoloration, warping, and rot on wood Microbial growth resulting in mold and mildew Termites, carpenter ants, and other insects appear in your home, attracted to the damp wood The severity of water damage depends on how damaged the pipes are and how much ice has formed. The worst-case scenario is a massive volume of water melts overnight, so water gushes through the cabinetry where the sink is and floods your kitchen or bathroom. Thawing exterior pipes can also burst, turning your yard into a muddy swamp.  How to Unthaw Frozen Pipes Damage from burst pipes can be avoided by preventing freezing in winter. Using heat tape, installing sufficient insulation around exposed pipes, and closing water valves supplying water to outdoor hoses can help prevent pipes from freezing. But what happens if they freeze despite your precautions? Here’s what you can do: Find out which pipe is frozen by turning on the faucets around your house. If little to no water comes out, it’s highly likely that the pipe feeding that faucet has frozen. Shut off the main water supply to prevent more water from entering the pipes and worsening the problem. If the frozen pipe leads to a faucet concealed in cabinetry, open the cabinet doors to allow the warm air to circulate and slowly thaw the pipe. You may also use a hair dryer on the exposed or visible section of the pipe underneath the sink or along the basement wall or ceiling.  Alternatively, you can place a heating lamp or space heater near the frozen pipes. Keep these heat sources at least six inches from the pipes to prevent further damage, this time due to heat. NEVER use open flames to thaw pipes. Thaw section by section, starting from the area closest to the faucet. Turn on the faucet periodically to check if water starts flowing. This is a sign that your pipe is thawing nicely. Continue indirectly applying heat until you reach the last section of the pipe.  As the ice melts, check the pipes carefully for leaks. If you discover a large leak or too much water gushes out of your faucet, turn off the main water supply and call a licensed plumber for assistance.  Tips on How to Fix Frozen Pipes After thawing out your pipes and draining the ice melt, you might discover that your pipes have been damaged and need repairs. Here’s what you can do: Locate the cracks and seal them with epoxy putty, waterproof tape, or slick wrap for water pipes. Reduce the water pressure from the main water supply and gradually increase it to the normal range to see if your DIY repairs will hold.  Dry all areas that had gotten damp due to the leaks. This is crucial if your pipes are attached to drywall, concrete, and other surfaces where mold can grow. If microbial growth does happen, fungi and bacteria might penetrate the pipe and contaminate the water. Hire a licensed plumber to inspect, seal, and repair the damaged pipe if necessary. Minimize the Impact of Frozen Pipes with Help from Restoration 1 While it’s helpful to know what happens when your pipes freeze and how to fix frozen pipes, the best solution for this issue is, of course, to call professionals. With decades of experience, Restoration 1 of North Georgia should be top of mind if your pipes freeze or burst in winter. Our expert team is highly trained, well-equipped, and ready to assist with emergencies 24/7. Fill out our contact form and our customer service team will get back to you ASAP.     Don't Get Stuck With Damaged Property Fill in your details, we'll contact you right back. First Name** I consent to receive text messages from this business. Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Δ

Water invading your home does more than cause physical damage – it also brings with it plenty of distress. It can be overwhelming to witness water turning things upside down inside your home.  Fortunately, all hope isn’t lost. With prompt action, there’s a way to make your recovery journey much easier, prevent further damage to your property, and save as many of your belongings as possible. This guide walks you through what water intrusion is and what to do after water has made its unwelcome way into your home.  What Is Water Intrusion and How Does It Happen?  Simply put, water intrusion is the unintentional entry of water into a structure and involves water penetrating areas that are meant to stay dry. Water and the accompanying moisture can find their way through walls, ceilings, and floors, where they create a mess and cause damage and discomfort.  It’s worth noting that knowing the meaning of water intrusion isn’t enough. Awareness of its common sources is equally crucial, as it helps you take preventative measures or respond swiftly to minimize its devastating effects, including the following: Damaged Roofing: Whether due to deteriorating shingles or misplaced flashing, issues with your roofing can allow water and moisture in and bring harm to your attic, ceilings, and walls.  Faulty Plumbing: Even a minor leak in the plumbing lines within your walls can introduce moisture into your home’s structure and start a cascade of potential structural concerns.    Poorly Sealed Windows and Doors: Weather stripping and caulking break down over time, rendering doors and windows less effective in keeping water out.  Malfunctioning Appliances: Dishwashers, refrigerators, and washing machines, especially those with aged or damaged components, can leak and create pools of water that damage floors and more.  The Dangers and Consequences of Water Intrusion  Water reaching your home’s electrical systems can pose an immediate danger of short circuits or even fires. It can also create health risks by introducing contaminants into your home, depending on the type of water damage , and creating ideal conditions for mold.   Moreover, long-term water intrusion can compromise your building’s structural integrity. Wood that has been waterlogged can rot, metal can rust, and drywall can disintegrate. Worse, these issues often only become noticeable when significant damage has already occurred.  Beyond the direct physical damage that water intrusion can cause, it also negatively impacts your home’s market value. Homes with a history of water damage can be harder to sell, often requiring sellers to lower their asking price or get the repairs done before putting the property on the market.  What To Do After Water Intrusion There’s a bright side to all this: understanding the crucial steps that must be taken immediately after a water intrusion can help minimize its impact on your home. Return your home to its pre-intrusion state by acting swiftly and following these tips:  Locate and Stop the Water Source Look for the most obvious signs – a broken pipe, a leaky window, or an overflowed river or stream if you live in a flood-prone area. Shutting off your home’s main water valve can stop leaking or burst pipes from introducing more water into your home. In cases of natural flooding, piling up sandbags can help redirect water away from your house.  Document the Damage Before cleaning up the water, it’s imperative that you document the extent of the water damage for insurance purposes. Take photos or videos from multiple angles, capturing all affected areas and items. It also helps to make a list of all your damaged possessions. Comprehensive documentation is critical when filing an insurance claim.  Remove the Water and Start the Drying Process If it’s safe, begin removing the standing water as quickly as possible. Use a wet-dry vacuum if you have one, but buckets and towels can help, too. Once standing water is gone, open windows and use fans or dehumidifiers to circulate air and help dry out affected areas. However, for larger floods, professional water extraction services may be necessary.  Remember, quick and thorough drying is critical to minimizing damage to your property.  Clean and Disinfect Affected Surfaces Water and lingering moisture can turn your home into an ideal breeding ground for mold, so it’s crucial that you clean and disinfect all affected surfaces thoroughly. Non-porous surfaces can be cleaned with water and detergent, but porous materials like drywall and insulation may need to be removed and replaced.  If this process seems overwhelming, don’t hesitate to ask for help from local water damage restoration professionals . They have the necessary tools and solutions to ensure your home is safe for you and your family again.   Get Water Out of Your Home As Quickly as Possible With Restoration 1 of North Georgia  Time is of the essence when dealing with water intrusion. That’s why Restoration 1 of North Georgia is available 24/7 to respond to your water emergency. Best of all, we have the expertise and equipment to handle everything, from water extraction to damage repairs and cleaning, leaving you with nothing else to worry about.  Don’t hesitate to call our local Restoration 1 team anytime for help. We’ll be with you as soon as possible to get water out of your home and get things back to normal.    Don't Get Stuck With Damaged Property Fill in your details, we'll contact you right back. First Name** I consent to receive text messages from this business. Phone This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Δ

Water damage can be stealthy. It might start with a small leak in the basement or bathroom; before you know it, you’re dealing with a full-blown emergency. When that happens, every second counts, and understanding what qualifies as a water damage emergency can save you from further property damage and costly repairs. Here’s how to tell if water damage is classified as an emergency. Assess the Scope of Damage The first step is to identify the source of the water and how far it has spread throughout your property. If the damage is limited to a small area and is caused by clean water, such as a burst pipe or overflowing sink, it may not require immediate attention. However, it’s considered an emergency if the damage has affected multiple rooms due to contaminated water from sewage backups or heavy rainfalls. Additionally, standing water over a few inches deep can cause structural damage and pose a safety hazard, which qualifies as an emergency. Consider the Time Factor Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage. The longer you wait to address the issue, the worse it becomes. Within minutes of exposure to water, furniture and other belongings can become permanently damaged. Mold can grow within 72 hours, posing health risks to you and your family. If you notice water damage that has been present for more than a day, it’s crucial to call for emergency restoration services immediately. Evaluate the Risks Aside from property damage, water emergencies can also put your safety at risk. Water can weaken the structure of your home, making it prone to collapse. It can also cause electrical hazards and create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. If you notice any of these risks associated with water damage, you must seek emergency services immediately, as they have the necessary equipment and expertise to handle dangerous situations safely. Identify the Water Damage Category Water damage is classified into three categories—the higher the category, the more severe the damage and emergency response required. Category 1: This is clean water from a sanitary source, such as a broken supply line or faucet. It poses no immediate health risks but can escalate to Category 2 if left untreated for too long. Category 2: This is greywater, which contains some level of contaminants and can cause illness if ingested. It can come from sources such as dishwasher or washing machine overflow. Category 3: This is blackwater, which contains highly contaminated water and poses a significant health risk. It can come from sewage backup, floodwaters, or stagnant water left standing for a long time. If your water damage falls under Category 2 or 3, it’s crucial to seek emergency restoration services immediately. Watch for Telltale Signs Vigilance can mean the difference between a manageable repair and a full-scale water damage emergency. Be on the lookout for these telltale signs: A dramatic increase in your water bill Unexplained musty odors Discoloration on walls or ceilings Warping or buckling floors: signs of hidden water damage Unusual sounds like dripping or rushing water within walls may indicate a hidden leak Mold growth Early detection is critical, and recognizing these indicators can prompt quick action, preventing a water damage emergency or mitigating its impact. Responding to Emergency Water Damage Once you’ve determined that your water damage qualifies as an emergency, it’s crucial to act quickly. Here’s what you can do to minimize the damage while waiting for professional help. Turn off the water source: If possible, turn off the main water supply to your property to prevent further damage. Disconnect electrical appliances: In case of standing water, it’s essential to unplug any electrical devices and move them away from the affected area to avoid electrocution. Protect your valuables: If valuable items are in the affected area, move them to a safe, dry place to prevent further damage or loss. Remove standing water: If it’s safe to do so, you can start removing standing water using buckets or towels. However, avoid entering rooms with deep-standing water as it may pose safety risks. Document the damage: Take photos or videos of the affected areas and any damaged belongings as evidence for your insurance claim. Call Restoration 1 of North Georgia for Reliable Water Damage Restoration  Regarding water damage, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure if your situation qualifies as an emergency, it’s best to call for professional help to assess the damage and advise you on the necessary steps to take. Restoration 1 of North Georgia offers 24/7 emergency water damage repair and cleanup services to help restore your property to its pre-loss condition. Call us at (678) 894-9750 for prompt and reliable emergency water damage cleanup and restoration services.   Don't Get Stuck With Damaged Property Fill in your details, we'll contact you right back. First Name** I consent to receive text messages from this business. Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Δ

As winter arrives and the weather turns frigid, we focus on keeping ourselves and our loved ones warm and cozy inside our homes. We do this by keeping the heaters on and staying indoors unless it’s necessary to step out in the cold. But while you’re in bed underneath warm blankets and enjoying some hot coco, a plumbing crisis could be brewing silently in your home and damaging your pipes without you even knowing.  We are, of course, talking about dreaded frozen pipes. Even though frozen pipes are quite common in places that experience harsh winters, it still catches many people off-guard. Frozen pipes can escalate into a major plumbing emergency and flood your home, among other things.  Want to learn more about frozen pipes, how they occur, and the potential impact they can have on your home? In this blog, we uncover everything you need to know.  How Frozen Pipes Come About Water pipes constantly have water in them. This isn’t a problem during the warmer months because water can flow freely from the source and out of your faucets and water fixtures. Unfortunately, in winter, the drop in temperature can freeze the water inside your pipes. This is why exterior pipes in places that experience freezing winters require insulation. It is one of the many techniques used in construction to prevent water pipes from freezing.  What Happens When Your Pipes Freeze? Water expands as it freezes, taking up more space the colder the temperature gets. If there’s a lot of water inside a pipe, there’s a greater risk that the ice will expand beyond the pipe’s capacity to hold.  But the expanding ice isn’t the only problem. Immense pressure also builds up as the water freezes, pressing on the inner walls and compromising their structural integrity. If the ice continues to expand, the pipes can crack or split even if they’re not entirely frozen solid inside. Broken pipes are a big problem in and of themselves. Extracting the damaged pipes and replacing them with new ones can be expensive. However, an even bigger problem looms once winter ends and the weather gets hotter. As the warmer climate melts the ice, water will leak through the cracks and breaks, causing all kinds of damage to your property: Damaged furniture and gadgets due to sudden indoor flooding Water damage like discoloration, warping, and rot on wood Microbial growth resulting in mold and mildew Termites, carpenter ants, and other insects appear in your home, attracted to the damp wood The severity of water damage depends on how damaged the pipes are and how much ice has formed. The worst-case scenario is a massive volume of water melts overnight, so water gushes through the cabinetry where the sink is and floods your kitchen or bathroom. Thawing exterior pipes can also burst, turning your yard into a muddy swamp.  How to Unthaw Frozen Pipes Damage from burst pipes can be avoided by preventing freezing in winter. Using heat tape, installing sufficient insulation around exposed pipes, and closing water valves supplying water to outdoor hoses can help prevent pipes from freezing. But what happens if they freeze despite your precautions? Here’s what you can do: Find out which pipe is frozen by turning on the faucets around your house. If little to no water comes out, it’s highly likely that the pipe feeding that faucet has frozen. Shut off the main water supply to prevent more water from entering the pipes and worsening the problem. If the frozen pipe leads to a faucet concealed in cabinetry, open the cabinet doors to allow the warm air to circulate and slowly thaw the pipe. You may also use a hair dryer on the exposed or visible section of the pipe underneath the sink or along the basement wall or ceiling.  Alternatively, you can place a heating lamp or space heater near the frozen pipes. Keep these heat sources at least six inches from the pipes to prevent further damage, this time due to heat. NEVER use open flames to thaw pipes. Thaw section by section, starting from the area closest to the faucet. Turn on the faucet periodically to check if water starts flowing. This is a sign that your pipe is thawing nicely. Continue indirectly applying heat until you reach the last section of the pipe.  As the ice melts, check the pipes carefully for leaks. If you discover a large leak or too much water gushes out of your faucet, turn off the main water supply and call a licensed plumber for assistance.  Tips on How to Fix Frozen Pipes After thawing out your pipes and draining the ice melt, you might discover that your pipes have been damaged and need repairs. Here’s what you can do: Locate the cracks and seal them with epoxy putty, waterproof tape, or slick wrap for water pipes. Reduce the water pressure from the main water supply and gradually increase it to the normal range to see if your DIY repairs will hold.  Dry all areas that had gotten damp due to the leaks. This is crucial if your pipes are attached to drywall, concrete, and other surfaces where mold can grow. If microbial growth does happen, fungi and bacteria might penetrate the pipe and contaminate the water. Hire a licensed plumber to inspect, seal, and repair the damaged pipe if necessary. Minimize the Impact of Frozen Pipes with Help from Restoration 1 While it’s helpful to know what happens when your pipes freeze and how to fix frozen pipes, the best solution for this issue is, of course, to call professionals. With decades of experience, Restoration 1 of North Georgia should be top of mind if your pipes freeze or burst in winter. Our expert team is highly trained, well-equipped, and ready to assist with emergencies 24/7. Fill out our contact form and our customer service team will get back to you ASAP.     Don't Get Stuck With Damaged Property Fill in your details, we'll contact you right back. First Name** I consent to receive text messages from this business. Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Δ