Carrara Companies Cleaning & Restoration Services Blog

The What, When & How to Prevent Ice Damming

Ice Damming is a barrier of ice that does not allow water to properly flow off a roof.  They are the result when water from melting snow flows to a roof's edges and freezes.  Normal signs of ice damming, is the appearance of water staining on interior ceilings and walls.

Ice Dams frequently occur during the winter months when melting snow results in moisture, which becomes trapped, on the roof because the ice dams prevent the water from reaching the gutters, downspouts, or the ground.  It is important to mention roof shingles are designed to shed water, which runs down the roof, not protection from water pooling on its surface.

Eventually, standing water backs up under the shingles and penetrates the roof sheeting.  If left unchecked, it can result in significant damage.  Prompt action and maintenance are the keys to ice dam prevention. Here are some tips to consider:

Since most damming occurs when the undermost layer of snow closest to roof melts, a cold roof prevents that deepest layer of snow from melting. Be sure the attic is well ventilated, with vents free of snow and debris. Properly insulate the attic, and have a qualified contractor inspect for bare spots and areas of insulation, which are matted down.

Another way to prevent Ice Dam formation is to remove snow from the roof when possible. With assistance, use a stepladder and roof rake to remove the lower 4-6 feet of snow. This will free up moisture and allow it to flow off the roof.

When roof damage has occurred, contact your insurance agent for qualified contractors in your area. Ensure to have them identify water entry points and install a temporary cover and drainage system. Lower the temperature in the affected area(s) by improving ventilation and adding insulation. Any roof replacement should include the installation of an ice and water shield.

The Quality of Indoor Air

Over the years, people have been spending more and more of their time indoors. Approximately 90 percent of America's population is spent indoors, while 65 percent of that is spent in the home. Because of this, people are more exposed to indoor air pollutants, and those most susceptible are children, the elderly, pregnant women, and persons whom are sick.

The sources of these pollutants vary from chemicals in simply cleaning products and pesticides, to basic activities such as cooking, bathing, and heating/cooling the home. There are some easy ways for anyone to take to reduce the potential for indoor air pollution and to improve the quality of their air.

Control the source of the pollutant. Instead of increasing energy costs by increasing ventilation, it is best to find where the source of the pollutants are coming from and test accordingly. Having your vents professionally cleaned will also help eliminate some of the airborne threats. Be sure to consult your state or local health department or professionals who have experience in solving indoor air quality problems.

Immediate effects may show up after a single exposure or repeated exposures. These include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Such immediate effects are usually short-term and treatable. Sometimes the treatment is simply eliminating the person's exposure to the source of the pollution, if it can be identified. Symptoms of some diseases, including asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and humidifier fever, may also show up soon after exposure to some indoor air pollutants.

Carpet Cleaning: Melting the Wax Away

Over the years, people have enjoyed the comfort and warmth of candles. They have provided symbolism and hope, and, unfortunately, sometimes a mess. Here are some carpet cleaning tips to remove those accidental waxy messes.

While most carpet cleaners use a hot water extraction method, a simple solution can be done with your household iron. Place either a brown paper bag or white towel over the affected area and, with the iron on low to medium, gently push the iron on the towel or paper bag in a blotting motion. Allow the newly melted wax to absorb in the towel or bag, and repeat as necessary to remove as much visible wax as possible. If there are still some residual oils, try using a citrus gel solvent spotter to remove them.

If the stain remains from a colored candle, try blotting the area with a mixture of hot water and commercial fabric or upholstery cleaner. There are some cleaners, which you can find online and in stores, that directly work for this, and takes only a little hard work. If the stain is persistent, then contact a professional carpet cleaner.

Maintaining your Hardwood Floors

In maintaining your hardwood floors, it is important to give them the attention they require. If neglected long enough, the finish can wear away, and the dirt and moisture from everyday life can damage the wood. Here are some tips for keeping your floors looking like new.

• Make sure you clean up any mess, spills or debris, right away.
• Use a rug to cover your heavier traffic areas.
• Sweep or vacuum every 2-3 days to keep unwanted dust and dirt from settling.
• If mopping, make sure you use a product that is recommended for cleaning hardwood floors. Never use a product that may damage the wood.
  

Running this simple test is an easy way to determine whether your floor needs refinishing. Simply take a teaspoon of water and pour it over your heavier traffic areas. If the water beads almost immediately, then the finish is still in good shape. However, if the water seeps into the wood and darkens the area, this is a good indication your floors need to be refinished.

Unlike paint, stain tends to lighten when it dries, so make sure you test the finish in a small area not often seen, such as a closet. Stain varies from light to dark and each individual shade has its own affect. Therefore, ensure you follow the proper safety measures, should you choose to refinish the floor yourself.

However, if your flooring is severely damaged and may need more than just refinishing, it may be time to call in a professional. There are many different areas of wood repair, and it is important to recognize the problem beforehand. Repairing split or cracked wood is entirely different than repairing buckling or warping floors, so if you choose to do the work yourself, make sure you have the proper tools and knowledge. In addition, always make sure you adhere to any safety steps, which are required.