Georgia rain can be a serious threat to your property’s foundation, crawlspace air quality. At First In Restoration we know one thing is for sure: prevention is cheaper than repair. Here are some tips so you’re ready for the upcoming Georgia rain to help prevent water damage.

Check Your Gutters Like Your Home Depends on It

Leaves and pine needle debris will block water flow very quickly. When gutters overflow, the water is looking for any place to go. The could end up behind your walls and all the way into your basement. Make gutter cleaning a regular chore (or let the professionals clean them for you), and double-check that the downspouts are pushing water away from your home.

Your Landscaping Might Be The Culprit

Water needs to move away from your home. Mulch too high? Flower beds sloping the wrong way? Maybe your azaleas are too close causing water to pool up. You need to keep rainwater shifted away from your home and away from your foundation. Don’t know where to start? We always recommend calling a landscape company or architect that can help with preventative measures. 

Smelly Basement or Crawlspace? 

If your basement or crawlspace smell musty or feels damp, that means that water is already getting in to your home. Seal any cracks and have your crawlspace encapsulated. You should also consider installing a sump pump which will really help during the next downpour.

Pro Tip: If you see bubbling paint in your home, warping floors, or smell something kind of weird and earthy you may have water damage and hidden mold.

We Respond Fast to Georgia Water Damage

First In Restoration is Georgia’s most trusted name in water damage restoration and mold remediation. We’re IICRC certified, offer 24/7 emergency plumbing and provide full-service restoration including crawlspace encapsulation. We are based in Gwinnett County but serve all of Georgia.

Call First In Restoration: 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com

It’s already frustrating to experience water damage in your home or business. Having a water damage insurance claim denied is your worst nightmare. While water damage restoration is necessary, it can be costly, especially the longer the water has been left to sit.

If you have to come out of pocket for water damage restoration, you may be left wondering how much everything will cost and how you’ll pay the bill? With First In Restoration you still have options, even if your water damage claim was denied.

Why Was Your Water Damage Insurance Claim Denied?

Insurance companies have strict guidelines on what they cover. It’s important to review your policy closely every year when it is up for renewal. Common reasons for insurance claim denial may include:

• Gradual Damage – If you had a leak for a long time (even if you didn’t realize it) or if you didn’t properly maintain your home and it caused a long-term leak, then this is considered homeowner negligence and will not be covered.
• Flood vs. Water Damage Confusion – If your home floods from heavy rains, storms or overflowing rivers and creeks you will need separate flood insurance for that. Typically standard insurance will not cover it.
• Late Reporting – Failing to report damage immediately to your insurance company make get your claim denied. Your insurance company may take the stance that the delay in calling to make the claim worsened the damage of your home (which will cost them more money).
• Incorrect or Insufficient Coverage – There is more than one type of water damage and your insurance policy may have exclusions you weren’t aware of. It’s best to talk to local insurance agent to make sure you’re covered.

What to Do If Your Water Damage Claim Is Denied

1. Review Your Policy 

Read every detail in your insurance policy regarding water damage coverage and the reasons for denial. 

2. Request a Written Explanation

If your claim was denied over the phone by the adjuster, consider requesting a formal written explanation by the insurance company. This will show you the exact reason for claim denial and you can determine whether you should challenge the decision.

3. Gather Evidence & Documentation

Your insurance company may have denied the claim due to lack of sufficient proof. You can help strengthen your case with:

• Photos and videos of the damage
• Repair invoices and written professional assessments and estimates
• Reports by plumbers or contractors outlining the issue

4. File an Appeal

Most insurance companies allow you to appeal a denied claim. Submit a written request with the following:

• Give an explanation (in detail) of why you believe the damage should be covered
• Add any additional documents or expert opinions (ie: from your plumber) supporting the claim
• Reference line items of your policy if coverage should apply

5. Consult a Public Adjuster 

A public adjuster has the authority to review your insurance policy as well as your case. They can represent you and negotiate with your insurer on your behalf. 

6. Consider Legal Action

If everything else fails you may have to take matters into your own hands and consider:

• Filing a complaint with the Georgia’s insurance commissioner.
• Hire an attorney that specializes in disputes with insurance claims.

How First In Restoration Can Help

Dealing with water damage AND a denied insurance claim is overwhelming. At First In Restoration, the best water damage restoration company in Georgia, we work directly with homeowners and businesses to assess and restore water damage. Call First In Restoration today at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com.

Your yard can either protect your foundation or cause major water damage.

If you have poor drainage, a sloped yard or have plants too close to your foundation it can direct water straight into your crawlspace or basement. Over time these issues can lead to structural issues to your home, mold damage and even a flooded foundation.

On the flip side, strategic landscaping — like grading your yard away from the home, using proper gutter extensions and planting water-absorbing shrubs — can help keep water far from your house to help prevent water damage.

Even your plant choices make a difference. Water-absorbing shrubs and deep-rooted native plants will help soak up excess groundwater, and mulched garden beds can reduce erosion and slow the flow of rainwater across your property.

When done correctly, your landscaping can guide water away from your home and toward safer drainage zones — keeping your foundation dry, your crawlspace clear and your risk of water damage low.

If you’ve experienced water damage in your home from landscape issues you need to call First In Restoration, Georgia’s number one rated water damage restoration company: 470-748-0225, www.firstinrestoration.com

We are loving this beautiful spring weather in Georgia. Spring is a time for fresh air, blooming flowers… and finding surprise water damage? 

Unfortunately water has a way of hiding in odd spots in your home. 

Here are some areas you need to check this season for water damage to your home:

• Behind Your Walls – That small discoloration on your wall or ceiling might be hiding a major pipe leak.
• Under Appliances – This is a big one. We get a lot of calls regarding leaking appliance such as refrigerators (ice machine), dishwasher and washing machines. At least quarterly move them to inspect around the area and look for moisture (or mold). 
• Inside Air Ducts – Moisture in your HVAC system can lead to mold growth. We often see this in unconditioned crawlspaces that are also improperly encapsulated.
• Around Windows – Spring rain loves to find its way under old window seals and caulk that’s old and has dry rot. This can be easily fixed with new windows, seals or new caulk.
• In the Attic – Winters in Georgia are bizarre. Freezing rain, sometimes hail, sometimes a tornado, occasionally snow! Your roof may have formed a leak during the winter storms which could be causing damage you haven’t noticed yet. Another thing to note– your attic is hot, if you have mechanical items in your attic (such as an HVAC unit or ducts) they can condensate inside on the inside and outside of the duct work causing mold to form.

We know that surprise water damage is a homeowner’s worst nightmare, but keeping your eye out and catching it early can save you a huge headache (and costly repairs). If you start to notice musty smells, warped flooring, or stainingit’s time to give First In Restoration a call.

Why You Should Call First In Restoration

Water damage doesn’t wait for a convenient time that’s why First In Restoration offers 24/7 emergency service, fast response times and expert restoration to get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible. Whether it’s a small leak or a major flood, we have the tools and expertise to handle it all.

Call First In Restoration at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com—because when water damage strikes, you need the best team on your side.

Happy National Gardening Day, Georgia! Whether you’re a master gardener or just starting out, today’s the day to celebrate. While you’re watering your plants and thinking about your yard, don’t forget—First In Restoration is the best in Georgia for water damage restoration and mold remediation. From Loganville to Gwinnett and beyond, we’re the pros you call when water threatens your home.

But what if you could prevent water issues before they even start? Let’s talk about a secret weapon: the rain garden bed.

What’s a Rain Garden Bed?

A rain garden bed is a great way to beautify your yard while making it utilitarian to help prevent water damage.

The goal is to plant deep rooted plants in areas that get a lot of rain. It helps capture and absorb rainwater runoff (especially from roofs, driveways and downspouts). Instead of water pooling near your foundation that can cause flooding, the rain garden plants will soak up the water and filtered it back into the ground. 

Why It’s a Win-Win

Reduces standing water

Helps prevent basement or crawlspace floods

Keeps pollutants out of storm drains

Adds natural beauty and curb appeal to your home

Helps local pollinators thrive (honeybees love flowers!)

What to Plant

You’ll want to go for native and deep-rooted plants that love getting their feet wet but can also handle dry spells (you know how dry Georgia can get!). Some of our favorite picks include:

• Black-Eyed Susans
• Switchgrass
• Blue Flag Iris
• Joe Pye Weed

Pro Tip:

We recommend placing your rain garden at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundation and watch it work its magic during the next storm. We also recommend contacting a local landscape company for a plan that best serves your property.

Garden Smarter, Not Harder

A rain garden bed is a simple way to enjoy your yard while protecting your property from water damage. However, if water’s already made its way into your crawlspace, basement or living area, don’t wait. First In Restoration is just a call away and is ready to mitigate and dry your space in.

Need help after heavy rain? First In Restoration is Georgia’s #1 water damage restoration and mold remediation team—serving Loganville, Gwinnett County and surrounding areas. 

Call First In Restoration 24/7: 470-748-0225 or visit our website: www.firstinrestoration.com

At First In Restoration, Georgia’s top-rated water damage restoration company, we’ve seen everything from busted pipes, to roof leaks. But some lesser-known threats can cause just as much, or even more water damage.

Here are three things you may not realize that can lead to water damage:

1. HVAC Drain Lines

If your HVAC drain line is clogged it can cause major issues. The air conditioning system takes the moisture from the air—and that moisture (aka: water) has to go somewhere. If the condensation drain line gets clogged, it will overflow and will cause damage behind walls or ceilings.

2. Washing Machine Hoses

How old is your washing machine? What about its hoses? Rubber hoses on older washing machines can crack (from dry rot) or burst and typically there’s not much warning. A small leak can flood your laundry room quickly, and it doesn’t take long for it to affect additional rooms (or the downstairs if it is located upstairs). 

3. Windows

Over time, caulk and seals around your windows breaks down (again, from dry rot and age). When rain hits old seals it can leak under the window and soak everything from the wood to the insulation and can even lead to mold getting behind the walls.

How to Keep Water Damage Out of Your Georgia Home

Stay proactive. Check these ares regularly and take action (like replacing the window, window seals or caulk) before a small issue turns in to a large water damage claim.

Why Call First In Restoration?

If water damage sneaks in to your Georgia home, don’t wait. First In Restoration is the #1 water damage restoration company in Georgia and your go-to for emergency plumbing, mold removal, and water cleanup. We’re IICRC certified and available 24/7. Call us at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com.

Two terms often come up in the water damage world: waterproofing and water mitigation. While they may sound similar, they serve different purposes and are used in different situations. If you’re wondering which one you need this guide will break down the differences so you have a clear path forward.

What Is Water Mitigation?

The goal with water mitigation is to immediately respond and stop the water damage. This includes extracting standing water and drying out affected areas as quickly as possible.

When is water mitigation needed?

• After a pipe burst, a leaking roof or a storm-related flooding are a few examples 
• When there’s standing water in your home or business
• To prevent mold growth after a leak or flood

What does water mitigation involve?

• Water extraction using pumps and vacuums
• Drying and dehumidification to remove excess moisture
• Removing damaged materials like drywall, flooring as well as insulation
• Disinfecting and sanitizing to prevent mold and bacteria growth

While it doesn’t prevent future water issues, water mitigation is about damage control and will ensures your property is safe and stable after a water disaster.

What Is Waterproofing?

The goal with waterproofing is to prevent water damage from occurring in your home or business. This preventative measure creates a barrier that will prevent leaks, moisture buildup and flooding.

When is waterproofing needed?

• If you have a basement that is prone to flooding or moisture issues
• When you live in an area that experiences heavy rainfall or high water tables
• If you’ve had repeated leaks or issues of water getting in at the same area
• During a build a basement or crawlspace build to prevent future water damage

What does waterproofing involve?

• Sealing cracks in the home’s foundation and walls
• Installing a sump pump in your basement or crawlspace that will remove water buildup
• Applying a waterproof coating and sealant
• Improving drainage systems around the exterior of the property (such as a French drain)
• Encapsulation: prevents water vapor from getting in to the crawlspace.

Waterproofing is a smart long-term investment for your property. It will help prevent water from entering your home or business.

Waterproofing vs. Water Mitigation: Which Do You Need?

• If you’re dealing with water damage right now, you need emergency water mitigation to stop the current water damage.
• If you want to prevent water damage from happening again in the future waterproofing will help.
• Sometimes, both are necessary—water mitigation to handle an existing issue and waterproofing to ensure it doesn’t happen to you again.

Protect Your Property with First In Restoration

Whether you need emergency water mitigation or long-term waterproofing solutions for your crawlspace, First In Restoration is here to help. Our experts will assess your property and recommend the best course of action to keep your home or business safe and dry.

Call us today at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com to schedule an inspection!

Georgia got hit hard with heavy rain the last two days, soaking everything from rooftops to crawlspaces. For most, it was just another wet spring weekend—but for some homeowners, it was a warning sign. Now is the time to check for water damage, leaks and crawlspace flooding in your Georgia Home

At First In Restoration, we’ve already started getting calls from residents in Gwinnett, Walton, Barrow and Hall counties about suspicious water spots, damp smells and water pooling up. Even if you didn’t notice any major flooding, it’s time to be proactive. Waiting too long to inspect your home could lead to long-term damage, mold growth or even foundation issues.

What to Look For After a Major Rainfall

Even if your home seems okay to the naked eye, water has a sneaky way of finding spots to get into. Here are some things you should check today:

• Ceilings & Walls: Stains or paint bubbling up could mean a roof leak.
• Flooring: Warping, discoloration, or soft spots in hardwood, carpet or vinyl flooring are indicators that there is moisture underneath.
• Basement & Crawlspace: These areas are the first to flood. It’s always good to check them out after a hard rain.
• HVAC System: A wet furnace or exposed ductwork in a crawlspace can easily become moldy and affect your air quality.
• Smell Test: Sometimes you will smell something musty before you actually see mold. Don’t ignore it.

Why the Crawlspace Is the Silent Victim

You don’t really think about your crawlspace regularly. They’re easy to forget until there’s a problem. If you find standing water or excess moisture in your crawlspace after a heavy rain, it’s a huge red flag. It can lead to wood rot, mold, pest infestations and even compromised insulation. If your crawlspace smells earthy or feels damp, you have problem and need to call First In Restoration.

What Makes This Rainfall Different

Spring storms are common, but this weekend’s back-to-back days of rain saturated the ground faster than it could soak in. That increases hydrostatic pressure around your foundation, which can push water through small cracks finding its way into your home. If you have a poorly graded yard or clogged gutters that could worsen your water issue. 

What to Do Right Now

It’s best not to wait for visible damage. A quick inspection could save you thousands down the road.

• Walk the perimeter of your home and look for standing water or erosion
• Give a good look inside near windows and around baseboards
• Check out your crawlspace or basement with a flashlight 
• Snap photos of anything suspicious in case you need it for insurance documentation

Call First In Restoration if you see or smell something suspicious. We offer fast, honest inspections and emergency mitigation services to keep your home safe and dry.

Why Homeowners Call First In Restoration After Heavy Rain in Georgia

First In Restoration is Georgia’s top water damage restoration company, proudly serving Loganville and the surrounding area. We’re IICRC certified, experienced in crawlspace encapsulation, emergency plumbing, full-service water mitigation and reconstruction.

Whether it’s standing water or hidden moisture we know how to find the source and stop the damage fast.

Call us anytime at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com to schedule your inspection. We’re ready when you need us.

Have you ever noticed that water damage never happens when it’s convenient (if there’s actually a time that it’s convenient)? It’s almost like your plumbing waits for the absolutely worst possible moment to fail.

Water damage loves to strike:

• Right Before Vacation – You’re all packed, you’re excited and ready to leave, when you’re heading to the beach and then… your water heater leaks all over the laundry room.
• In the Middle of the Night – There’s nothing like waking up at 3:30 AM to the sound of rushing water from a pipe burst.
• During a Holiday  – Your kitchen sink decides to overflow right before serving Christmas lunch to your extended family.
• On a Weekend – Because, of course, plumbers are so much easier to reach when your supply line bursts on a Saturday night.
• When You’re Already Stressed – Big work deadline? Kids’ baseball tournament? That’s when your ceiling decides to start dripping.

Water damage doesn’t care about your schedule but we do! At First In Restoration, we’re available 24/7, so no matter when disaster strikes, we’ll be there FAST.

Why You Should Call First In Restoration for Water Damage

Water damage doesn’t wait for a convenient time, and neither do we. At First In Restoration, we offer 24/7 emergency service, fast response times, and expert restoration to get your home or business back to normal as quickly as possible. Whether it’s a small leak or a major flood, we have the tools and expertise to handle it all.

Call us anytime at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com—because when water damage strikes, you need the best team on your side.

Earlier this week, Georgia got hit with a ton of heavy rain. The pollen count was super high and we needed the rain! However, with rain there comes moisture issues you may not have noticed until now. After the storm if you noticed puddles forming around the foundation or any water getting into your basement, it’s time to call in the professionals at First In Restoration. Didn’t experience any rude water getting in? That’s great news! Next time you may not be as lucky so but with a few proactive steps, you can protect your home from water damage before the next big storm rolls in.

1. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear

Clogged gutters are a big culprit behind home flooding. Make sure your gutters are clean and the downspouts are directing water at least five feet away from your home’s foundation. Some additional ways to keep the water flowing — 1) add downspout extensions to prevent water from pooling too close to your home, 2) add gutter guards that keep debris out of your gutters.

2. Check and Seal Foundation Cracks

Even a small crack in your foundation can let water into your basement. You need to routinely inspect for gaps and seal them with waterproof caulk or hydraulic cement to keep moisture out. We recommend having a trained professional come out to take a look and make repairs.

3. Install a Sump Pump to Prevent Basement Water Damage

Your sump pump prevents your basement from flooding. If you don’t have one, install a sump pump. If you already have one, test it regularly to make sure it works (You don’t want to wait until it’s raining to find out it’s broken). A battery backup is a smart investment to keep it running during power outages (which we get a lot of during spring storms).

4. Ensure Proper Yard Drainage

Landscaping isn’t just to beautify your yard. Your lawn service can also properly slope your yard so it’s sloping away from your home. This will prevent rainwater from pooling up near your foundation. If you notice standing water then have your landscaper regrade or even install a French drain which can help redirect it.

5. Window Wells Covers

Rainwater loves to push its way into basement windows. Consider installing clear, durable window well covers that will keep water out but still allows natural light into your basement.

6. Maintain Your Plumbing

Leaky pipes or an old water heater can contribute to excess moisture. Regular plumbing maintenance helps prevent minor problems from turning into major water damage issues.

7. Install a Sewer Backup Valve

If you live in an area prone to sewer backups, a backup valve can prevent category three wastewater from flowing into your basement during heavy storms.

8. Use Rain Gardens to Manage Runoff

A rain garden is a beautiful, smart and eco-friendly way to absorb excess rainwater. When you strategically place one in your yard, it can help reduce water runoff and it will ease pressure on your drainage system. Learn more about rain gardens HERE.

Protect Your Home with First In Restoration

Taking these simple steps can help prevent basement water damage, but sometimes, even the best preparation isn’t enough. If you’re dealing with water damage or want to reinforce your home’s defenses, First In Restoration is here to help. Our team of IICRC-certified professionals specializes in water damage restoration, emergency plumbing and moisture control. We respond 24/7 to emergencies, ensuring your home stays dry and mold-free.

Call First In Restoration today at 470-748-0225 or visit www.firstinrestoration.com to schedule an inspection.