Flooded homes and damp walls are a common sight for Colton Schmidt, who works at Service Restoration. The company cleans up disasters such as water damage in homes and buildings.
According to Schmidt, heavy snowfall combined with freeze-thaw cycles at this time of year have increased calls for help.
“Last year we helped a total of around 1,800 property owners. We’re already up 32% year over year this year,” he said.
He adds that melting snow can also seep into the foundations of houses. Schmidt notes that while customers can try to dry properties themselves, fans and shop vacuums aren’t usually powerful enough.
“Coming back to the drying characteristics of the customers themselves, a lot of people will feel dry, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you have dry areas all over the place,” Schmidt told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS.
This image shows water damage in the basement of an apartment building on March 15, 2023. (KSTP-TV)
Damage can cost thousands of dollars, but there are ways to avoid it. Experts say to prevent water damage, you should take measures on the outside of the home.
Preventive measures include:
- Clear snow from foundation.
- gutter extensions.
- Landscape correction in spring.
- Removing ice dams.
- Proper attic ventilation and insulation.
- Checking the sump pump.
- Mechanical maintenance to avoid frozen pipes.
Schmidt says if your home is still not protected, call professionals. Schmidt also reminds residents that they have the right to choose which restoration business they want to hire, regardless of what insurance recommends.
“We have invested heavily in people and equipment so we have 24/7 preparedness for commercial and residential losses,” he said. “It’s incredible to be able to help people get their property back as quickly as possible.”
kstp.com
https://kstp.com/kstp-news/top-news/swinging-temperatures-leading-to-high-demand-for-water-damage-services/
