Smoke damage, ash, burnt items, and potential water damage or foam from extinguishing a fire...these are all things you might face after minor fire damage.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTo clean up your home after a fire, whether from a small kitchen or electrical fire or a wildfire, professional cleanup services can help get it done fast.
\r\n
Professional fire damage cleanup and junk removal services can save you time, stress, and risk.
\r\n\r\n![\"fire](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/fire-damage-cleanup-infographic.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nWildfires and house fires, even if not extreme, can cause a decent amount of damage.
\r\n\r\nOnce you're sure the fire is extinguished and your home is safe, we recommend starting to find cleanup assistance ASAP.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nProfessional fire damage cleanup crews have the experience and equipment necessary to safely clean up ash and soot, haul away heavy items and debris, and clear the property of any additional damaged items.
\r\n
Fire damage cleanup crews bag and box up whatever you need removed, and then they haul it away to be disposed of responsibly.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFire damage cleanup costs can vary a great deal depending on how severe the damage is, the labor involved with the cleanup, where you live, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor minor fire damage cleanup, you can expect to pay anywhere from $400-$1,000.
\r\n
More extreme fire damage cleanup will be double or triple these costs, if not more, and we often recommend remediation companies for major fire damage cases.
\r\n\r\nFor many fire damage cases, your homeowner's insurance may help pay for the cleanup and repairs, so reach out to them immediately.
\r\n\r\nNote: If you live in an area prone to wildfires, it may be difficult to get home insurance that covers wildfire damage due to the risk involved with insuring homes in these areas. However, if you are able to get coverage, it would mitigate or eliminate the cost of paying the pros to clean up and dispose of debris from a covered wildfire loss, leaving you with less stress in the long run.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen your property is affected by a fire, you want to get it handled as quickly as possible, and Hometown gets that.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHometown can help you find qualified junk removal and fire damage cleanup pros in your area, read reviews, and request quotes easily and free of charge.
\r\n
Give as much detail about your project as you can to each company you speak to in order to get the most accurate junk removal quote. Oftentimes, cleanup and hauling companies will need to come out to your property to assess the work and provide a quote.
\r\n\r\nWhenever possible, we recommend getting more than one estimate for your junk removal project to ensure you get the best service for the best price.
\r\n\r\nIf you'd rather clean up the mess yourself, dumpster rental is an ideal option, and Hometown can help with that, too! Just like with junk removal, Hometown can help you find dumpster rental companies in your area. We even make it easy to request multiple dumpster quotes and read reviews.
\r\n\r\nNote: If your property has extreme damage, you will likely need to reach out to a restoration company.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nSmoke damage, ash, burnt items, and potential water damage or foam from extinguishing a fire...these are all things you might face after minor fire damage. Get your home cleaned up fast after a fire with the help of professional cleanup services.
\r\n","changed":"2022-12-06T18:23:50+00:00"},{"id":"4606c040-ada0-5be7-a048-70bdb8163c9e","title":"Get Rid of Scrap Metal Fast With Junk Removal Services","url":"/blog/get-rid-of-scrap-metal","image":{"path":"/static/a1d965bdfeebb3dd649d8c18b692a543/1-diy.png","alt":"Worker in PPE removing scrap metal"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"49c52146-4c5a-5ad3-a556-f14363834202","name":"Scrap Metal Recycling","slug":"Scrap-Metal-Recycling"},{"id":"04cc94ec-8031-599d-b367-22042ec698df","name":"Construction Debris Removal","slug":"Construction-Debris-Removal"}],"content":"If you have a pile of scrap metal that you don't have the time or resources to haul to a scrap yard yourself, hiring a junk removal company is a fast and easy solution.
\r\n\r\nScrap metal is rarely accepted by weekly municipal trash pickup services and even if it is, metal should be recycled rather than thrown into a landfill.
\r\n\r\nUnlike other types of trash, metal does not easily break down organically and will sit in a landfill for 50-500 years.
\r\n\r\nNew materials are expensive to make, and landfill space is extremely valuable, which is why all scrap metal should be recycled.
\r\n\r\nRecycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, saves energy, and offsets the environmental impact of new material production and the consumption of virgin materials.
\r\n\r\nThat said, recycling your scrap metal doesn't have to be an exhaustive process.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nGetting rid of your unwanted scrap metal can be done in a matter of minutes with the help of a junk removal company.
\r\n
No two junk removal companies are the same, but most will accept metal like copper, bronze, brass, stainless steel, iron, tin, aluminum, and more.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies can haul away and recycle all types of items, so decluttering your home before they come so they can haul away even more unwanted items is a great project worth considering.
\r\n\r\nThe price you will pay for your removal project will vary based on a number of different factors, like the type and amount of items that are hauled away, time of year, where you live, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a large amount of metal to remove, renting a dumpster may be a more cost effective option, but it requires you to do the heavy lifting and loading.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to locate and contact reputable junk removal and dumpster rental companies that are locally-owned in your area. Reading a company's reviews is a great way to learn about the type of service you can expect, and we personally verify every review that is left on our site to ensure they are accurate and only left by real customers.
\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you have a pile of scrap metal that you don't have the time or resources to haul to a scrap yard yourself, hiring a junk removal company is a fast and easy solution. Read about the junk removal process and why recycling scrap metal is the best disposal method.
\r\n","changed":"2022-03-21T20:57:44+00:00"},{"id":"e445fbd3-2c8d-59ac-8e7b-9ddc2c0aeaa2","title":"DIY Carpet Removal Tips: How to Save Money and Get the Job Done Right","url":"/blog/diy-carpet-removal-tips","image":{"path":"/static/1f191d4164ecaf8a4ec0055760634536/rolls-of-removed-carpet.jpg","alt":"rolls of removed carpet"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"452ceba2-add3-5353-9ce8-638ceada914a","name":"Carpet Removal","slug":"Carpet-Removal"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Carpet removal might not be the most glamorous home improvement project, but it's a task that many homeowners will need to tackle at some point.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhether you're replacing old carpet with new flooring or simply want to refresh your space, removing carpet yourself can save you a significant amount of money. However, like any DIY project, it's important to approach it with the right knowledge and know when to hire the pros instead.
\r\n
In this article, we'll explore DIY carpet removal, when hiring a professional is best, and how carpet removal works, which will help you save money in the long run and ensure you get the job done right.
\r\n\r\nBefore diving into the tips, it's essential to understand why you might want to remove carpet yourself rather than hiring a professional. There are several compelling reasons:
\r\n\r\nNow, let's delve into the DIY carpet removal process and various tips to ensure you can handle the task effectively...
\r\n\r\nBefore you start tearing up your carpet, make sure you have the following tools and supplies ready:
\r\n\r\nHaving the right tools on hand will make the process smoother and safer.
\r\n\r\nClear the room of all furniture and objects that could obstruct your work. This includes smaller items like lamps, decorations, and smaller pieces of furniture. For larger items, like sofas and beds, you may need to disassemble them or move them to another room.
\r\n\r\nBegin by using your utility knife to cut away the carpet along one edge of the room. Carefully make an incision near the wall, then use your pliers to grab a corner of the carpet and pull it up. Once you have a corner lifted, you can begin to peel the carpet away from the tack strips along the walls.
\r\n\r\nTack strips are narrow wooden strips with small, sharp nails that hold the carpet in place. Carefully use your pry bar or crowbar to detach the carpet from these strips. Be cautious not to damage the subfloor in the process.
\r\n\r\nAs you remove the carpet from the tack strips, roll it up tightly to make it easier to handle. If your carpet is in good condition, you might be able to donate or recycle it. Otherwise, dispose of it properly according to your local regulations.
\r\n\r\nUnderneath the carpet, you'll typically find a carpet pad. This is often held in place with adhesive or staples. Use your utility knife to cut and remove the pad in sections. Be careful when handling the pad, as it can be heavy and may contain dust or allergens.
\r\n\r\nOnce you've removed the carpet and pad, it's essential to clean and inspect the subfloor. Remove any leftover staples, nails, or adhesive residue. Make any necessary repairs to ensure a smooth and even surface for your new flooring.
\r\n\r\nDispose of all carpet, padding, and other materials in accordance with your local waste disposal regulations. Some materials may be recyclable, so check with your local recycling center for guidance.
\r\n\r\nIf you want to handle all the work yourself, renting a dumpster is a great option for disposing of the unwanted carpet. With a temporary roll-off dumpster, you'll be able to load the carpet into the dumpster yourself, go at your own pace, and get rid of other unwanted junk you have lying around your house in the process.
\r\n\r\nIf you'd rather have someone else handle the physical removing of your carpet as well as the proper disposal, professional junk removal services are likely the best option. Junk removal services typically cost more than renting a dumpster but that cost gains you added convenience, efficiency, and safety.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIn some cases, you may encounter challenges during the carpet removal process, such as extremely stubborn adhesive or damaged subflooring. If you're uncomfortable tackling these issues on your own, it's wise to consult a professional to avoid potential complications.
\r\n\r\nRemoving carpet yourself can be a rewarding DIY project that saves you money and allows you to customize your home's flooring. However, it's important to ensure that the job is done right and that your room is ready for whatever flooring option you choose to install.
\r\n\r\nIf you do the work yourself, but you do it wrong, you'll end up paying more in the long run. Remember to take your time, prioritize safety, and be prepared for any unexpected challenges that may arise during the process. With the right tools and a little patience, you can transform your space and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.
\r\n\r\nWith that said, DIY isn't the only option. In fact, in many cases, hiring a professional is the smarter and more cost-effective choice.
\r\n\r\n![\"peeled](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/carpet-removal.jpg\")
\r\nThe easiest way to get rid of old carpeting is to hire a junk removal company to come and haul it away or to assist with the total removal.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies are committed to donating or recycling as much as possible, with carpet being no exception. To confirm your carpet is going to the right place, you can confirm with the companies you speak to how they plan to dispose of your old carpet. Donating and recycling is typically less expensive than disposing of something at a landfill, so if your carpet is salvageable, you could save a little bit of money by having it taken to the nearest donation center, like a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, or recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nCarpet removal via junk removal services is easy:
\r\n\r\nBe sure you hire the right person to handle your carpet removal project with the help of Hometown.
\r\n\r\nEasily request quotes from multiple pros in your area, read verified customer reviews, and get answers to common carpet removal questions, all from one place so you can get your project done faster and for less money.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nExplore DIY carpet removal, when hiring a professional is best, and how carpet removal works, which will help you save money in the long run and ensure you get the job done right.
\r\n","changed":"2023-10-10T20:40:48+00:00"},{"id":"0d931cf2-33ef-56d4-860c-120c72ec1f73","title":"Complete Guide to Eco-Friendly Waste Removal","url":"/blog/eco-friendly-waste-removal-guide","image":{"path":"/static/bb9360ab155699eb7df20066a6f97d42/eco-friendly-waste.jpg","alt":"Aerial view of forest with lake in the shape of recycling symbol"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"},{"id":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"}],"content":"Most people don’t think twice about trash once it hits the bin and gets hauled away to the landfill.
\r\n\r\nThe fact is that in the U.S. alone, approximately 146 million tons of trash enters the municipal waste system each year, according to 2018 statistics provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
\r\n\r\nA large percentage of this trash is actually recyclable, reusable, or shouldn’t actually be in the municipal waste system. The key is being smart about what you’re throwing away to make sure what makes it in the bin should actually be there.
\r\n\r\nWe'll go over some helpful tips and tricks to make the most of your disposal efforts to ensure you're being as eco-conscious as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"Complete](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/eco-friendly-waste-removal-info_0.jpg\")
\r\nCertain items shouldn’t enter your trash bin or dumpster, including electronics, batteries, chemicals, paint, printer cartridges, yard waste, construction and demolition debris, recyclables (like plastic, paper, and metal), and tires to name a few.
\r\n\r\nMost major electronics retail stores accept used electronics for proper recycling. Motor oil and other fluids are accepted by oil change centers and most automobile dealerships. Tire dealers accept used tires for proper recycling.
\r\n\r\nA good general rule to follow is that if an item isn't safe or legal to throw away, you can often times reach out to a retailer that sells these items to see if they offer free recycling drop-off. If you can't find a free solution in your area or don't have the time, ability, or desire to haul these items to a recycler yourself, you will have to find an alternative solution.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Benefits of Recycling Junk vs Throwing It Away
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are known for their ethical and intentional efforts towards eco-friendly disposal and are a top disposal choice for consumers.
\r\n\r\nWhen junk removal services are hired to haul away unwanted items, whether it be household junk, large appliances, furniture, C&D debris, yard waste, or other items, they'll sort through the removed items and separate any items that can be recycled or donated to ensure they don't end up in a landfill.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal provides eco-friendly electronics disposal, yard waste recycling, debris recycling, and will donate lightly used household items and building materials to further contribute to their local community.
\r\n\r\nIn addition to their recycling efforts, junk removal services are a consumer favorite due to their invaluable convenience. Perfect for those who physically can't move large items, don't have a hauling vehicle to do it themselves, or have busy lives and don't want to spend additional efforts arranging recycling or disposal during their free time, junk removal companies handle all the heavy lifting, loading, hauling, and disposal for you.
\r\n\r\nFor those that are looking for a long term way to sustainably reduce their landfill contributions at home, composting provides a great solution.
\r\n\r\nComposting allows you to reduce the amount of trash that makes it into the garbage can, and it can actually help you save money in the long run. Compost is the best natural fertilizer out there, and best of all, it’s completely free!
\r\n\r\nComposting is easier and less intimidating than it sounds for those who have never tried it. By collecting all of your plant-based food scraps, used coffee grounds, egg shells, dryer sheets, vacuum residuals, hair and grass clippings and mixing these items with equal amounts of yard waste, such as twigs and dead leaves, you can create a natural, self-decomposing pile of fertilizer that can be reused in your garden.
\r\n\r\nThe trick is keeping the mixture moist in a garbage can or similar container in a shady area, preferably outside. Stir the mixture a couple of times per week, and within a few months, you’ll have 100% organic fertilizer filled with nutrients—not to mention a significantly less full weekly garbage bin.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nHandling large amounts of waste in an eco-friendly manner requires a larger disposal solution. Junk removal companies can handle bulk disposal projects and are the easiest way to have a home cleaned out while having recyclables and donation-worthy items separated without having to do so on your own, but large junk removal projects can get costly due to the all-inclusive nature of their services.
\r\n\r\nSo, how can you get the best price for bulk waste pick-up services while also prioritizing the environment?
\r\n\r\nThis is where dumpster rental services come into play. As time goes on, more and more dumpsters rental companies are going green, taking notes from their junk removal service competitors and making efforts to responsibly dispose of waste rather than dumping everything they haul off to a landfill.
\r\n\r\nWhen calling to rent a dumpster, ask if the company offers any type of trash recycling or clean load sorting. A clean load simply means the dumpster is filled with the same type of material rather than a mixture of items, making it easier (and often cheaper) to haul the entire load to the appropriate recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nSorting facilities can handle clean loads much more efficiently, so try to fill each dumpster load with one type of material to increase the odds the material gets recycled rather than just emptied into the local landfill. Examples of this would be a dumpster clean loaded with only yard waste, concrete, cardboard, or scrap metal.
\r\n\r\nIf you're considering renting an eco-friendly dumpster or hiring a junk removal service to haul away your donations or recyclables, Hometown makes it easy to find locally-owned and operated service providers in your area.
\r\n\r\nWe publish licensed and insured disposal services across the U.S. to help consumers find the best service for the best price. You can read more about each company in your area, read verified reviews from real customers, and request multiple quotes, free of charge, to compare the level of customer service, availability, and charges you can expect from each provider.
\r\n\r\nOur single quote request form significantly eliminates the time it takes researching and requesting quotes from multiple companies. By providing your zip code and answering a few short questions about your disposal needs, you'll be able to request free quotes from local services near you.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nThe U.S. municipal landfill system is becoming greener, so that’s an encouraging step in the right direction. The garbage you can’t recycle, compost, or reuse can still be helpful to the environment at some landfills.
\r\n\r\nAccording to the EPA, there are currently 75 landfills across the country utilizing waste-to-energy (WTE) initiatives. These eco-friendly landfill facilities use various methods to extract energy from the waste sitting at the landfill. One method is capturing the methane gas naturally produced at landfills and turning it to a useful energy source.
\r\n\r\nThe EPA states WTE landfill facilities turn 28 million tons of trash into approximately 2,720 megawatts of power each year. The U.S. is definitely heading in the right direction as far as waste removal goes, but it’s still up to each individual person to do their own part in preserving our environment. These simple tips can help you get started.
\r\n\r\nLearn all about how to handle eco-friendly waste removal in a way that is not only better for the environment but also better for your wallet in some cases.
\r\n","changed":"2023-08-15T13:57:52+00:00"},{"id":"5e3f4a61-beb3-5936-8144-4db6869f7f3f","title":"Factors That Affect the Cost of Junk Removal Services","url":"/blog/junk-removal-cost-factors","image":{"path":"/static/2678e0ec3e123a591ca26b7e864b30cb/junk-removal-cost-factors.png","alt":"pile of household junk outside"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"Junk removal services are a convenient, handy way to get rid of any amount of junk, trash, or debris quickly and safely.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nBecause junk removal services can help with projects of all shapes and sizes, costs for junk removal vary quite a bit.
\r\n
Junk removal costs anywhere from $100-$1,000 on average.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies have minimum fees that they charge for removing one or two items, like a mattress, treadmill, TV, or couch.
\r\n\r\nYour exact junk removal project cost will depend on a number of factors.
\r\n\r\n![\"junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/junk-removal-cost-factors-infographic.png\")
\r\nOne of the major factors that affects junk removal project costs is the location of the project.
\r\n\r\nDo you live in an area with a high cost of living?
\r\n\r\nDo you live out in the country far from the nearest junk removal company or local disposal facilities?
\r\n\r\nIf either of these situations are true, your junk removal service will be more expensive due to the increased disposal fees and travel/gas costs.
\r\n\r\nFor example, junk removal services in New York City will cost more on average than junk removal services in Wichita, Kansas due to the difference in cost of living.
\r\n\r\nThe cost of an apartment cleanout on an upper floor will also be higher that a first floor cleanout.
\r\n\r\nHaving a pile of items in your driveway or by the curb for easy pick-up is the most cost-effective option because it speeds things up and simplifies things for the crew.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies typically price general household junk removal projects differently than removing large or heavy items/debris.
\r\n\r\nFor example, construction and demolition debris is extremely heavy and requires additional labor to load and haul it away safely.
\r\n\r\nThe same is true for large, heavy furniture pieces, like pianos and treadmills.
\r\n\r\nDifficult-to-haul items require more labor and therefore will typically be more expensive to dispose of than lightweight debris.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSimilarly to the type of debris, the amount of debris affects junk removal pricing as well.
\r\n\r\nThe more space your items take up in the company's truck or trailer, the more your junk removal project will cost.
\r\n\r\nFor junk removal, costs rise as the volume of junk increases.
\r\n\r\nA full truckload of junk will cost more than a load taking up half the truck space.
\r\n\r\nThe more items you need to remove, the longer it will take for the junk pros to complete the job as well.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nAs the complexity of a junk removal job increases, so does the price.
\r\n\r\nRelatively small, straightforward junk removal projects, like furniture or appliance removal, typically cost $100-$350.
\r\n\r\nA larger, more complex cleanup project, like cleaning out a garage, attic, or basement, costs $200-$800 or more on average.
\r\n\r\nAnd the largest and most complex cleanup projects, like entire home cleanouts, foreclosure cleanouts, or hoarding cleanups, typically cost anywhere from $800-$3,000 or more.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies charge slightly different prices for the same service, which is why we recommend getting at least 2-3 quotes.
\r\n\r\nNot only does getting multiple junk removal quotes ensure you pay a fair price, it also ensures you hire the best company.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRegardless of how big or small your junk removal project is, knowing what to look for in a junk removal company can help save you money and stress if you’ve never hired one before.
\r\n
A qualified junk removal company is insured, has a good reputation, offers fair prices, and is available to complete the work when you need it.
\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, we specialize in helping people find qualified junk removal companies in their area.
\r\n\r\nTo ensure you choose the best junk removal company, we recommend reaching out to multiple companies for junk removal quotes and getting answers to the most important junk removal project questions from each one in order to adequately compare job estimates.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are a convenient, handy way to get rid of any amount of junk, trash, or debris quickly and safely, but prices can vary quite a bit. Find out the main factors that affect junk removal cost to help ensure you pay a fair price for your services.
\r\n","changed":"2022-05-11T22:52:02+00:00"},{"id":"8b44e63b-7e4e-54d6-bbb7-fa45b2a28d94","title":"How to Clean Up After a Burst Water Pipe","url":"/blog/how-to-clean-up-after-a-burst-water-pipe","image":{"path":"/static/1ba4b7d0170796974dce3150a6664696/leaky-water-pipe-1.jpg","alt":"Ceiling damage caused by leaky water pipe"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"fbab0dc1-15ce-5dd8-ac6a-75a1549f593d","name":"Hazardous Materials","slug":"Hazardous-Materials"},{"id":"c31df595-00f6-51ea-a7da-584c54e964ba","name":"Basement Cleanout","slug":"Basement-Cleanout"},{"id":"9b611674-a2b8-541f-99a9-bfaf0063fc7d","name":"Storm Cleanup","slug":"Storm-Cleanup"}],"content":"Homeownership may be the American dream, but at times it can seem more like a nightmare.
\r\n\r\nFlooding situations caused by damaged water pipes is a great example.
\r\n\r\nMost homeowners are unfamiliar with this type of situation and how to deal with it, so we're here to simplify the process.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDealing with plumbing and flooding issues are a hassle but detecting the issue early and being proactive with a solution can minimize headaches for homeowners.
\r\n
![\"Signs](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/infographic-update.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nPlumbing issues aren’t always immediately apparent, but recognizing them ASAP is key to minimizing damage.
\r\n\r\nThe obvious signs of puddling water or large areas of mold are easy to spot, but there are other inconspicuous warning signs to consider.
\r\n\r\nKeep an eye out for the following symptoms of a failing water pipe...
\r\n\r\nIf you notice that the water pressure varies when the faucet is open or the shower is on, it may be an indicator of a leak somewhere.
\r\n\r\nWater that is consistently tinted any shade of color can signify any number of issues, including damaged or old water lines.
\r\n\r\nOld steel lines can rust, and copper water pipes can corrode over time.
\r\n\r\nHaving old water pipes increases the risk of a catastrophic failure, especially in very cold conditions where water inside the pipes could freeze and cause it to rupture.
\r\n\r\nDiscoloration on walls or ceilings can indicate a water leak.
\r\n\r\nIf the area is spongy, it is a strong indicator that water damage has occurred.
\r\n\r\nFurther investigation is recommended as soon as possible.
\r\n\r\nA scent of rotten eggs can be a sign of water line failure, particularly sewage lines.
\r\n\r\nEven a faint foul smell coming from the water tap or shower should be taken seriously.
\r\n\r\nWhen a pipe develops cracks, air is able to enter the water lines. This can lead to unusual sounds coming from the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nIf you notice any new and unusual sounds coming from inside the walls and ceiling, visually inspect the exposed water pipes you can see.
\r\n\r\nAlso check the ceilings, walls and floors for water spots, mold growth, or a spongy feel.
\r\n\r\nCalcium and mineral buildup can lead to blockages. This increases pressure inside the water lines, which can cause leaks to develop at weak points, such as joints or corroded areas of the pipe.
\r\n\r\nConsider installing a water softener to combat hard water.
\r\n\r\nIf signs of water damage are found, turn off the water supply and contact your insurance company and a licensed plumber for instructions on how to proceed.
\r\n\r\nIf the issue is found early on, major damage can be avoided, but a major event will need some remediation.
\r\n\r\nWhether caused by a slow leak or a burst pipe causing immediate flooding, address the issue as quickly as possible to minimize further issues.
\r\n![\"person](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/leaky-water-pipe-2.jpg\")
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nYour insurance provider should be one of your first calls when noticing any major water damage.
\r\n
Your homeowners insurance company can help guide you through resolving residential flooding situations.
\r\n\r\nThe claims process can vary by company, but it generally goes something likes this...
\r\n\r\nStep 1: Contact the insurance company, explain the situation, and start a claim.
\r\n\r\nStep 2: The insurance company will send someone out to inspect the damage and assess the total cost of the damage.
\r\n\r\nThe Adjuster comes out to the property, inspects the damage, gets additional information from you or other witnesses, and gives the insurance company a total estimate for the damage.
\r\n\r\nIncluded in the estimate is the cost to replace all things damaged by the burst water pipe, including flooring, walls, ceiling, fixtures, cabinetry, plumbing, cleanup costs, and more.
\r\n\r\nStep 3: The insurance company will handle scheduling the repair and remediation process or direct you in how to do it.
\r\n\r\nYour insurance company will provide funds to cover the estimated damage in the form of a check or direct deposit.
\r\n\r\nThese funds can be used for the repairs, whether doing the rebuild yourself or hiring a construction company to do it for you.
\r\n\r\nStep 4: Damaged substrate and other materials/items are removed, including any moldy items.
\r\n\r\nStep 5: Once the damaged items are removed, the affected area is dried out using specialized wet vacs and commercial grade fans.
\r\n\r\nDepending on the extent of the water damage, it can take several days to a week of fan-drying to reach an acceptable moisture level.
\r\n\r\nFans are run 24 hours a day to speed up the drying process, and this produces quite a bit of noise.
\r\n\r\nBecause your home will sound like a droning airplane for several days, plan ahead to meet your needs. For example, if you work from home or don't want to live in the house until the drying process is completed.
\r\n\r\nStep 6: Once everything is dry, the repair and rebuilding process can begin.
\r\n\r\nThis process may vary depending on your insurance company.
\r\n\r\nIn addition, no two residential water damage incidents are the same, so the cleanup process will depend on the extent of the damage and other factors.
\r\n\r\nBecause of this, the cost of water damage cleanup and repair is highly variable as well.
\r\n\r\nLong-term water damage involving large amounts of mold may require environmental remediation, and this can increase cleanup costs quite a bit.
\r\n![\"Fans](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/leaky-water-pipe-3.jpg\")
\r\nSometimes your specific type of water damage isn’t covered under your homeowners insurance policy, or the damage is minimal and you don’t want to go through the insurance claim process.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIn minor flood situations, you may be able to contact a junk removal company to handle the cleanup.
\r\n
The biggest advantages of using a junk removal company rather than doing the cleanup yourself are the convenience and value.
\r\n\r\nProfessional cleanup crews handle all the heavy lifting, hauling, and proper disposing of the damaged materials.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal prices generally start at $75 to $150 depending on where you live and goes up from there depending on the size and complexity of your cleanup project.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend that you contact multiple local junk removal companies for quotes to be sure you're getting a fair price for quality services.
\r\n\r\nIn the case of mold damage, check with the junk removal company to make sure they are equipped and experienced (and in some cities, licensed) to remove and dispose of moldy materials.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find qualified junk removal companies in your area, read customer reviews, and request quotes from as many companies as you'd like.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nDealing with plumbing problems is never fun but armed with the right knowledge, you can get the issue resolved in no time. Learn how to file an insurance claim for water damage, the cleanup process, and how to go about cleaning it up without filing an insurance claim.
\r\n","changed":"2022-12-06T18:23:08+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Maine","place":"Bangor, ME","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Maine/dumpsters-bangor.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Portland, ME","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Maine/junk-removal/portland-me.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Bangor, ME","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"maine/commercial-waste-management-bangor-me","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Lewiston, ME","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Maine/junk-removal/lewiston-me.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Lewiston, ME","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"maine/commercial-waste-management-lewiston-me","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Maine","place":"Portland, ME","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Maine/Portland-ME-dumpster-rental.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Removing Unwanted Junk","body":"Typically, junk removal companies accept more items than dumpster rental companies, making them a more convenient option for various projects. A junk removal service may be more willing to remove some of the items that you can't put in a dumpster, like refrigerators, AC units, tires, or cans of old paint.
\r\n\r\nOther common items that junk removal companies accept include:
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies charge a base rate regardless of how small the removal job is. For example, many will charge around $75-$125 to come out and haul away anything. For large projects, like whole-home cleanouts or hoarding situations, you could end up paying as much as $2,000 or more.
\r\n\r\nTo ensure you pay a fair price, we recommend getting quotes from 2-3 junk removal companies.
\r\n\r\nThe biggest factors affecting junk removal cost include:
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Rent a Dumpster or Hire a Junk Removal Company?
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