AFTER THE STORM: HESTER PAINTING & DECORATING OFFERS ADVICE ON TACKLING WALLS DAMAGED BY WATER AND FLOOD
SKOKIE, Ill. (Sept. 22, 2008) – For homeowners hit hard by recent storms and flooding, the desire to fix everything as quickly as possible can be strong. Homeowners understandably want the cracks fixed, the soaked walls repaired and the flood waters out. Acting swiftly is important to prevent health-threatening mold, but rushing the process can bring hazards of its own. The professionals at Hester Painting & Decorating advocate homeowners address damage issues with the proper diligence to ensure the repairs endure.
“We see it every time our region gets hit with floods. Homeowners hire the first contractor they come across, who may or may not be an expert in water damage,” said Jeff Hester, vice president of Hester Painting & Decorating, also known as Professor Paint. “Walls that look dry on the surface get painted or papered, but the inner dampness ultimately bubbles up and, worse, harbors mold. You’ve got to accurately assess the moisture before simply painting over an area.”
Hester offers these tips to homeowners facing a cleanup from leaking roofs or flooding.
1. First, call the insurance company. You’ll want to let the company know you’ve experienced damage and ascertain what your policy includes and whether there are any limits.
2. Invest time in identifying a reputable contractor. In haste to get things cleaned up, it is tempting to hire the insurance company’s recommended contractor or the first company you call. Many homeowners don’t realize they are not required to use the insurance company’s recommended contractor. When many claims are being processed at once, such as after a severe storm, the insurance companies may be more focused on getting claims processed than they are on recommending top-quality contractors. Do your homework to find your own professional contractor, preferably one with water damage experience. At a minimum: check references, verify the company has insurance, do an online search and check with the Better Business Bureau.
3. Hire a restoration specialist for serious flood damage. If the damage was caused by flooding or requires more than just drywall and painting, call a restoration specialist. In order to neutralize the water problem to avoid the growth of mold spores, the specialist will remove the water, dry out the room and use machines called air scrubbers that prevent mold development. Once mold has been addressed, call your painter to finish the surfaces.
4. Obtain a written proposal and contract. Make certain it includes a warranty, ideally on both labor and materials, not just the materials. Ask each contractor to provide an estimate for identical services (size of area to be painted, type of paint, preparation details, etc.).
5. Compare apples to apples. Don’t immediately jump at the lowest bid. Examine the details to see whether the bids are comparable. Sometimes the lower or more enticing bids are missing some aspect of the necessary work, such as painting the doors or woodwork as well as the walls. You’ll want to make sure the bids include at least two coats of paint rather than one.
6. “Fish” for the moisture meter. Ask your potential contractors to explain how they intend to take care of the problem. Listen carefully. If they don’t mention using a moisture meter to ensure the wall or ceiling is completely dry, you will have an indication that they may not be trained or experienced with water damage. Paint or paper applied to areas that appear dry on the surface but still contain moisture within can peel or blister after the contractor is long gone.
7. Make the final payment when the work is complete. To avoid abandonment, arrange to pay your contractor once the job is finished and done to your satisfaction.
While it is easy to feel overwhelmed in the aftermath of storms and flooding, a savvy homeowner will remember that a home is major investment worth trusting to reputable professionals.
“Last year, we were called by a customer willing to pay out of his own pocket as he was so fed up with the contractor his insurance company had sent in the aftermath of the storm,” said Hester. “I advise homeowners: Be just as thorough and just as picky when hiring a contractor after a storm or flood as you would if you were not under time pressure.”
Founded forty years ago, Hester Painting & Decorating provides homes and high-profile commercial establishments with high-end decorating services. Widely regarded as a leader in the fields of painting, faux finishing, and exterior and interior maintenance, Hester Painting & Decorating utilizes an enormous repertoire of finishes and wall covering techniques to create unique environments for its clients. More information about franchising opportunities and other services offered by Hester Painting & Decorating is available at (847) 677-5130 or http://www.hesterdecorating.com.
Contact:
Cheryl McPhilimy
cheryl@mcphilimy.com
McPhilimy Associates
(312) 988-1270
