From your child’s first steps and the faint pencil marks on the door trim to the room that has been painted every color, your home has more value than a price tag. When it comes time to say goodbye, you may find it hard to decide on the right asking price. By making small renovations, the value of your home as well as your confidence increase when settling on an asking price.
#1 Who is Your Buyer?
You should ask yourself what type of buyer your home is likely to attract.
Set aside personal preference and consider what features will have the widest appeal to the largest number of potential buyers. Sure, you might like the pink counters in your kitchen but this isn’t likely to give home buyers the same warm, fuzzy feeling.
Ask yourself a couple of questions to better understand your buyer:
- What is their age?
- What is their income?
- Why is the location of your home suited for them?
- Do they have pets?
- What features would appeal most to them?
Answering these questions will be the first step to planning your renovation project(s).
#2 What is Your Budget?
No one, and I mean NO ONE, likes this question but it is unavoidable.
By understanding your buyer, as mentioned above, you can plan your projects strategically and maximize your budget.
Here’s an example of a potential buyer:
- Buyer Age & Gender: mid-to-late 40’s, Any gender.
- Buyer Marital Status: Married, has children.
- Buyer Occupation & Income: Employed, $80k/year.
- Background: Buyer has a large family. Buyer has pet(s).
Your buyer will seek functional spaces with enough room to accommodate their large family. A family with pets is likely a family that will have a preference to hardwood or laminate floors in addition to yard space. While these improvements seem too large of an investment, they can be attainable with some compromises within your budget.
#3 Focus on Features That Sell
While heated wood floors are unique & desirable, your sellers aren’t actively seeking homes with this feature. Though trends have changed drastically over the years, there are two rooms that buyers have always had their eyes on: the kitchen & bathroom(s).
Below are some renovation ideas for your kitchen & bathroom(s) that could help you sell your home quickly.
- Kitchen (a.k.a.: The heart of the home)
- Update Cabinetry. Carefully select a neutral yet fashionable cabinet color. Remove & replace out-dated hardware.
- Update the Counters. If your counters aren’t exactly in style, you may choose to invest some of your budget into updating them.
- Replace or Clean Flooring. You’d be surprised how much a deep clean or can do to an old kitchen floor.
- Functionality. If space allows, add a roll-away island. It adds more counter space and can be easily moved to create more space.
- Paint. Don’t be afraid to choose a nice, clean nuetral color. Starting with a fresh, clean canvas often inspires Home Buyers.
- Bathroom
- Update old Cabinetry. Change up the color and hardware (see above). Make sure you pick a paint that does well in moist rooms.
- Replace Light Fixtures. This small improvement makes a huge difference.
- Paint. Your sea-blue walls and finger-painted fish were cute in the 90’s but it’s time to say goodbye. Choose colors that create a spa-like vibe.
- Clean or Replace Flooring. Removing years of built-up grime can make an enormous difference.
- Replace the Shower Head. A sleek, new rain shower head will add to the relaxing vibe of the bathroom.
While the kitchen and bathroom are both important, don’t neglect spaces that are crucial to large families such as the family room, dining room, and laundry room. Homeowner’s with pets will carefully consider the yard space when purchasing a home. *Mend any damaged fencing to keep your buyers’ worries at bay.
Overwhelmed? Don’t be! We can provide any of the services above. Give us a call to learn how you can get a quote.
#4 Curb Appeal
Be honest with yourself.
If you were in the house buying market, would the exterior of your home pull you in or scare you away? Overgrown gardens, peeling paint, or poor lighting is enough for a buyer to turn the other cheek.
Here are some easy, inexpensive changes you can make in a day to boost your curb appeal:
- Spruce Up the Landscaping
- Trim the hedges, rake the leaves, add new mulch to the flower beds. Adding vibrant flowers that compliment your home will catch the eyes of your buyers.
- Clear Gutters
- Rid the gutters of debris and wipe them down.
- Clean Exterior Light Fixtures
- The glass on your lamp posts and door lanterns are likely filthy. Give them life with a good scrub & new bulbs.
- Pressure Wash Your Siding & Deck
- If you don’t have the time or budget to update your exterior paint, a little extra T.L.C. is the second best option.
Make your home’s first impression count. Get a quote for your exterior paint project by emailing us or giving us a call.
#5 Fix It Up
Take the steps needed to get a bill of good health for your home. Electrical, A/C, roof issues & more are often deal-breakers for home buyers. A house that comes with a honey-do list isn’t going to sell as easily as one without. Plus, being able to provide documentation that backs up the home’s condition will act as extra incentive for a quick sell.
Sell your home as close to move-in ready as possible. Scene Clean can provide handyman services and inspections. Give us a call to schedule.
#6 One Step At a Time
Unless you’ve hired us for one of our many home renovation services, we recommend you take on one project at a time.
Having multiple rooms in your home torn apart is not only stressful but could delay your house from getting on the market. Focus on one project at a time to ensure you have time to complete priority improvements.
If you’re timeline is short, Scene Clean can take care of everything on your list before your house goes up for sale.
Ready for expert care? When it comes to selling or buying houses near Frederick, MD or Walkersville, MD, look no further than Scene Clean. We have the expertise to restore your home after wind damage, a basement flood, fire damages, mold damages, & more. We can provide nearly all of your home service needs with our handyman repairs, emergency services, and mitigation services. So when it’s time to sell your home, keep us in mind for water cleanup, roof repairs, & other restoration services.
240-575-5802
Spring has sprung and heavy rains are on the way. This time of year is notorious for causing water damage for unsuspecting homeowners. If you’ve found some water staining or what appears to be mold, you’ll want to read the information below.
Inspecting the Area
You’ve found some suspicious stains or what is known as “discoloration.” You’ll need to give some thought to the area in which the damage was found. There are questions you may ask yourself to determine if the area provides a suitable environment for mold to grow.
1. What is the area’s typical condition?
Factors such as temperature, moisture, and a nutrient source all play a role in determining if an environment is likely to enable microbial growth. Water leaks, floods, high humidity, and poor ventilation can lead to a mold infestation. Mold growth tends to follow an on-going water leak or water condensation issue. For these reasons, basements are notorious for mold problems.
2. Is the damaged material biodegradable and does it appear to be wet?
Water damaged drywall, wood, wallpaper, and cardboard are likely to become a breeding ground for mold when damp.
3. Do you smell that?
Both active and inactive mold can produce a musty or earthy scent. It is often that homeowners notice this smell before they see signs of damage.
Mold Growth & Stains vs Water Stains
Color & Texture
Typically, a “musty” scent or visible discoloration on ceilings, walls, or valuables are the first signs that a mold problem may exist in your home. There is a wide variety of mold species. You should have the affected area tested by a professional. We highly recommend Cheryl Eckard Environmental Services who can perform a tape-lift test of a visibly affected area as well as air sample testing. It is important to hire a professional to inspect the damage as attempting to clean or remove the material will cause mold spores to become airborne. Airborne mold infestation will call for a much more in-depth remediation.
Actively growing mold may be described as:
- Soft, Slimy, or damp
- Will smear when touched
- Blue, green, yellow, grey, black, white, and other similar shades.
Inactive or dead mold can be described as:
- dry
- powdery, easily rubs off of surfaces
- blue, green, yellow, grey, black, white, and other similar shades
*It is important to note that not all mold that appears black in color is “black mold” (i.e.: Stachybotrys). Though it is possible for one dominant mold to infest an area, it is typical for different groups of mold to grow together, resulting in a multicolored appearance. Colonization of mold may appear splotchy and can be concentrated in one area or spread out. Color in combination with texture is a clear indicator of microbial growth.
Stains
Water stains are an indication of a water problem and hence the possibility of mold growth. Unfortunately, not all water damage is visible. Water damage can hide within walls, beneath floors, and in ceilings. Evidence of small, on going leaks may not be visible until mold has begun growing.
Signs of water damage include:
- peeling or bubbling wallpaper & paints
- Curling or bubbling vinyl flooring
- Warped wooden floors (can buckle over time)
- Yellow, brown, or copper colored stains
Irregular stains may be an indication of mold growth. Some molds stain the surface on which the mold is growing, which leaves a black or blue-black colored stain. Mold growth will cause further damage to the material it is growing on.
Mold vs Efflorescence
Before you drive yourself crazy assuming that every abnormal stain on your basement floor is a colony of mold, you should learn about efflorescence.
If your basement is unfinished or half finished, it is likely that you have a concrete floor. Salts and minerals exuding out of concrete basement floors or walls will form a white, powder-like substance called efflorescence. Visually distinguishing between mold and efflorescence can be difficult. Where there is efflorescence there is a water problem, which means there is a chance of mold growth, too.
To discern between the two, follow these steps:
- Put on a pair of gloves
- Fill a plastic cup with water
- Collect a sample of the substance in question
- Drop the sample into the water
If the materials dissolves it is not mold.
If you find what appears to be efflorescence in your home you should search for signs of water damage. If you seen any of the above-mentioned signs, give us a call and schedule an inspection right away.
Mold Removal is NOT a DIY Project!
Always get expert help when it comes to mold damage. Using chemicals such as bleach could cause more microbial growth. Trying to remove it yourself may cause an existing infestation to become airborne. When it comes to finding mold damage services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. We have 9 years of experience in restoring homes with mold damage in the Frederick area. We can provide nearly all of your home service needs with our handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. When spring showers bring more than May flowers, keep us in mind for our water cleanup & restoration services before a mold infestation forms. We’ll be there when you need us.
240-575-5802
Spring has officially sprung (despite the 6 inches of snow outside).
We all know the saying: April Showers bring May Flowers!
There’s no doubt: many homeowners experience basement flooding at this time of the year. Worry not! We’ve created a simple checklist to ensure a flood-free basement.
No sump pump failure means no water damage which means no mitigation and all of this means NO WORRIES!
Here’s how to maintenance your sump pump and prevent basement flooding:
#1 Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist
There’s more to do after a sump pump has been installed. It is important for homeowners to ensure that it is working properly through sump pump maintenance. We strongly recommend following this maintenance checklist when inspecting your sump pump:
- Replace the sump pump if it 15 years old or older
- Sump pumps that have displayed any erratic behavior should also be replaced as the chances of them failing are very high
- Check for any missing valves and replace them
- Ensure that your sump pump has a high water alarm
- A sump pump battery backup should be installed in case of power outage to ensure that the sump pump can still operate
- Type 1: standard output. These are suitable for main pumps that are less than ½ hp or equal to ½ hp, but they are not reliable during rain storms.
- Type 2: high output. This is the best choice for main pumps equal to hp or ½ hp that runs frequently when raining.
- Check the vent hole in the discharge pipes for clogs; make sure it’s clean!
Ready for expert care? When it comes to finding water damage services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. We have have the expertise to restore your home after a basement flood, fire damages, mold damages, & more. We can provide nearly all of your home service needs with our handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. So when april showers bring more than may flowers, keep us in mind for our water cleanup cleanup & restoration services.
240-575-5802
Spring is nearly here! Soon, birds will be chirping, trees & flowers will begin to blossom, & your windows will be open to welcome the fresh breeze.
Spring & Summer is a popular time of the year for house sellers and buyers. Open House signs will soon be planted on the corners of many neighborhoods.
Do you know the value of your home? Are the numbers not so kind?
DIYs are great but hiring professionals definitely has an impact on how the value
of your home increases post makeover.
NEVER FEAR! Scene Clean is here with 5 ways to increase the value of your home on a budget.
#1 Makeover the Bathroom
How many bathrooms have been a deal breaker for you in the past? Exactly.
If a total makeover isn’t in your budget, then try some of these simple yet fantastic ways to give life to your bathroom:
- Replace old fixtures
- Add a fresh coat of paint – Remember: bright, tranquil colors are in!
- Scrub, scrub, scrub! Clean out all the nooks and crannies!
#2 De-Clutter Like a Pro
(Check out the before & after of the kitchen below to see what we mean!)
Have you ever attended an open house that was just that, an open house?
Help your potential buyers envision their new home by clearing up the rooms of your home. Less clutter means an open space feeling so it is important to leave the bare essentials in each room. Then, organize and decorate. Try adding a throw blanket over the couch or a couple of plants on shelving, or in corners.
Oh, and shove that porcelain doll collection in a closet somewhere!
#3 Stick it Where the Sun Doesn’t Shine
What a difference a new light fixture & bulbs can make!
LIGHTS! We’re talking about lights!
Outdated light fixtures or poor lighting will leave potential buyers feeling like they’re entering a dungeon.
- Head to your local home improvement store.
- Pick out some new fixtures that are within your budget
- Don’t forget to buy some higher-wattage bulbs with a nice, warm glow
- Call Scene Clean to install your new fixtures properly
Tip: Keep in mind which fixtures will compliment your home! Whether you’re going for a modern or vintage look, make sure your fixtures compliment your home’s style.
#4 Your Book’s Cover
Despite the famous advice, potential buyers will still judge a book by it’s cover.
If the siding, windows, roof, lawn, & more are in bad shape, your chances of closing a sell will be, too.
Here’s some budget friendly ways to improve your home’s curb appeal:
- Cut the grass and/or rake up the leaves, remove weeds, & trim the hedges
- Give the mailbox a paint job
- Replace the mulch and add some plants
- Hire Scene Clean to power wash your siding, deck, & more!
- Add a fresh coat of paint to your front door! We’re only a call away.
- Do we even have to say it? We can spruce up the kitchen with a professional paint job.
- Scrub, scrub, scrub the floors! …or call us to perform a professional tile & grout cleaning.
- Not a big enough budget to replace the cabinets? Give them new life with a fresh stain.
- Replace the knobs on every cabinet to suit the new look!
- Update appliances
- Is your budget not in favor of updating appliances? Use a durable epoxy paint to give old appliances a new look.
- We can install new counters + a back splash! Not quite ready? Check out the Do-it-Yourself Kit from Giani.
- Immediately switch off the main water valve in your home.
- Leave faucets on.
- Call Scene Clean.
- Shut of the main water supply
- Visit every room with a sink and open the taps
- Leave plenty of blankets in their favorite sleeping spots.
- Check the integrity of their bedding – rips and tears mean it’s time to replace them!
- If your pet sitter has limited availability during your vacation, invest in a self refilling water & food bowl. You can purchase them at your local pet stores or make one like this guy:
- Provide a properly sized dog house that is insulated.
- To further insulate, add blankets & hay to the inside of their house.
- Wrap and tuck tarp around the dog house to prevent drafts.
- Add protection from winter winds: add walls (wood, tarps, etc) around the kennel if possible.
- Don’t forgot to provide self refillable food & water bowls! Before you go, make sure the bowls are secured to prevent your pet from accidentally knocking them over.
- We will continue to provide the water mitigation services that earned us a “Top Performer” title in our industry.
- Encourage clients to join us in giving back to Walkersville Schools.
- Fund departments & as a result, aid teachers & students.
- Raise community awareness of the importance of our teachers and students.
- SPREAD THE WORD: Tell all of your friends, your family, your hairstylist, etc.
- Request a brochure, business card, or magnet from Scene Clean to have on hand in case of a water emergency. (And put it on your fridge!)
- Locate the source of water damages.
- Determine the total areas affected.
- Remove water quickly & efficiently.
- Dry all affected areas.
- Ice or ice packs
- Mixing bowl
- Fan
#5 The Kitchen
Before & after of a kitchen remodel Scene Clean completed.
We’re sure you’ve been waiting for this one — and for good reason! The kitchen is found to be the biggest deal break/deal maker for house hunters.
Here are some easy ways you can makeover the kitchen on a budget:
Ready for expert care? When it comes to preparing to sell your house, you can rely on us. For home restoration, handyman repairs, or professional paint services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. We have restored & remodeled homes for 9 years in the Frederick area. We can provide nearly all of your home service needs with our handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. So when Spring arrives, keep us in mind for our emergency water cleanup cleanup & restoration services.
240-575-5802
The holidays are over and now we all anxiously await Spring. In the mean time, the weather is growing colder – leaving your home vulnerable to winter’s bite.
Frozen pipes cause a ton of problems. Fortunately, you can avoid them with just a few simple steps. Have your pipes already frozen and burst? We can help you get through it!
Here’s the 4 steps you can take to avoid frozen, bursting pipes:
#1 A Trickle
This could be your single solution to prevent frozen pipes in your home. Keep your faucets at a trickle during the coldest times of the day. We recommend a warm trickle overnight – especially from a faucet from an outside wall.
Photo taken today in Walkersville, MD. Sink is completely frozen over!
#2 Consistency is Key
Don’t touch that thermostat!
It may be tempting to adjust your thermostat before hitting the hay but we strongly recommend you don’t! Keeping your thermostat at the same temperature both day and night can keep your pipes from freezing when the temperature drops overnight.
#3 Keep the Doors Open
The cabinet doors, of course!
Keeping your cabinet doors open overnight can help heat reach uninsulated pipes beneath sinks & appliances. (This is super important for pipes & appliances near exterior walls)
#4 Traveling Out of Town?
Everything you need to know can be found in our blog: 6 Things to Do Before You Go on Winter Vacation.
Did this blog come a little too late?
If Your Pipes Do Freeze
#1 No Water? No Problem.
If no water comes out when you turn on the faucet, leave the faucet turned on and call a plumber.
Photo taken in Walkersville, MD today. Pipe burst in master bathroom. Sinks are filled with ice.
#2 Fire in the Hole!
NEVER try to thaw out a pipe with any type of open flame. Trust us, water damage is better than burning down your home.
#3 Shocking
If you find that an appliance is in standing water, avoid using the appliance. You could be electrocuted!
#4 Burst Pipe
Let’s say your pipes burst before they had a chance to thaw out.
Here’s what to do:
Photo taken in Walkersville, MD today. Burst pipe on exterior of home.
Ready for expert care? When it comes to finding water damage services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. We serve a wide variety of locations including Frederick county, Montgomery county, the WV Eastern Panhandle, & more! We can provide nearly all of your home service needs with our handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. From fixing frozen pipes or water damage cleanup after a burst pipe, we’re on available 24/7 for you!
So when this winter hits, keep us in mind for our water mitigation & restoration services.
240-575-5802
The holidays are here! By now, your home is probably filled with holly, wreaths, stockings, Menorahs, Bendera Ya Taifas, & more.
This is the time of year when loved ones get together, celebrate traditions, & relax. Many families travel to see loved ones, while others cozy up at home.
DON’T let a household emergency ruin your holiday retreat. If you’re traveling this season, this blog will give you some peace of mind.
Here’s the 6 things you should do to prepare your home before you go on vacation.
#1 Honey, did you leave the coffee pot on?
Unplug necessary appliances such as coffee makers, televisions, computers, etc. This will prevent wasted energy.
In the case of an electrical surge after a power outage, your appliances will be protected.
Christmas tree lights are often found to be the culprits of house fires during the holiday season. Avoid the risk all together by unplugging any indoor festive lights.
Exterior holiday lights can be set on a timer. Your house will still be merry & bright while you save on energy costs.
#2 Did Santa Bring an Indoor Pool for Christmas?
Prep the pipes! Shut off the water supply to avoid anything from a small leak to a flooded home. Tip: You can find the water main near the electrical panel or furnace.
If you live in an area where temperatures can drop below freezing, you should drain all other water appliances to avoid frozen or bursting pipes!
Here’s how to do it:
DO NOT DRAIN THE WATER HEATER
#3 Are You Trying to Heat the Entire Neighborhood?!
Do you recognize that classic line from mom or dad?
Turn down the temperature in your home — there’s no need to keep your home cozy if you’re not there to enjoy it.
We suggest setting your thermostat to about 60 degrees and no less. Keep your home warm enough to prevent frozen pipes but cool enough to save on energy.
Your windows and doors will thank you, too! Keeping your home’s temperature around 60 degrees will spare your windows and doors from frost buildup. Frost buildup on doors and windows can cause severe damage to wood and paint when it melts.
At that point, you’d give us a call. Remember, waiting too long can leads to serious issues such as mold.
You can learn more about issues that occur when water damages goes without being fixed for too long by reading this helpful blog.
Tip: Insulate your windows by applying a shrink-wrap film over them. You can buy shrink-wrap film kits at major stores such as Home Depot, Lowes, & even Walmart.
You can also check out this helpful blog by DIY Network.
#4 Protect Your Pets
Are your pets staying home throughout the holidays? We’re pet lovers here at Scene Clean and we understand your worry!
For indoor pets:
Are your pets staying outside during the winter?
Check the forecast. If temperatures below freezing are expected & you cannot bring them into your home, consider creating a safe spot for them in your garage (or any other sheltered area).
Here are some ways to keep them warm:
#5 Seal Your Home
Check for cracks around your windows & doors. A crack can allow warm air to escape or worse: let cold air in!
Store-baught caulking, sealant, & weather stripping products can provide a quick solution.
#6 What’s That Smell?
Dispose of any perishable foods, such as milk, that will spoil while you’re away. You wouldn’t want to come home to the smell of spoiled produce!
While you’re at it, empty out all trash bins once you’ve rid the fridge of perishables.
Tip: Place a bottle of water in the freezer. Once frozen, place a small coin or button inside. If you return home to find that the object has moved to the middle or bottom of the bottle, there may have been a power outage while you were away. This means you should check the integrity of your frozen foods.
Ready for expert care? When it comes to finding water damage services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. We have restored thousands of homes in our 9 years of service in the Frederick area. We can provide nearly all of your home service needs with our handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. So when this winter hits, keep us in mind for our water cleanup cleanup & restoration services.
240-575-5802
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As we enter the winter months, the spirit of giving back is upon us. As a small community, it’s more important now than ever to build each other up. At Scene Clean, we take great pride in giving back to the community. Now through January 2017, we want to give back to the people that give to the community all year long: our schools & in turn, the teachers.
We present to you, the Giveback Project:
Creating the Community Giveback Project
As the Scene Clean team brainstormed the recipients of our annual community efforts, we scratched our heads and wondered, “Who continuously gives to the Walkersville community without asking for anything in return? What cause can we give back to that will, in turn, transfer to our entire community?” Our team unanimously concluded: Schools!
Our schools & the teachers within them relentlessly give to the youth of Walkersville all year, every year. Then we came to the drawing board. How can we give back to the schools & community?
How are We Giving Back?
As winter quickly approaches, Scene Clean is gearing up for the damages that the cold brings. Pipe breaks, roof leaks, failing sump pumps, & more become a notorious problem for home & business owners. In other words, tis the season for water mitigation!
So here’s how we will continue to serve Walkersville residents & include them in our giveback efforts:
For every water mitigation job we complete in Walkersville, MD, our client will get to choose the Walkersville school & department that will receive a $150 donation from Scene Clean in their name! This will aid the community in these ways:
Here are the Details
What: We’ll donate $150 to a Walkersville, MD school upon completion of your mitigation project. Departments include all general studies, arts, special education, humanities, & athletics. You may also donate to pay off lunch bills.
When: This project will run from November 1st through January 30th.
Who: Walkersville residents and business owners can take advantage of this campaign in order to giveback to Walkersville schools!
Where: Jobs must be performed in Walkersville, MD & any receiving school must be in Walkersville, MD.
*Please call or email us for additional terms & conditions.*
How You Can Help
We are seeking help from our fellow community members to make this project possible!
Here’s how you can help:
Ready for expert care? When it comes to finding water damage services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. We have restored thousands of homes in our 9 years of service.. We can provide nearly all of your home service needs with our handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. So when this winter hits, keep us in mind for water cleanup & restoration services. Don’t forget to check out our website for additional services offered.
240-575-5802
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Fall is in full swing! Vibrant yellows, reds, & browns are covering the trees. It just so happens that those are three colors you don’t want to see on your walls & ceilings. These colors are often found in mold. Halloween might be over but the horror that is home damage can happen anytime of the year!
If you’ve experienced water damage in your home or business, it is crucial that the problem is addressed ASAP! When water damages go unnoticed or neglected, the damage it leaves on your home and family only worsens over time.
Here’s the top 5 results that come from neglected water damages:
#1 Mold & Mildew
You probably guessed that this would make the top 5 list! “Honey, it’s probably a small leak. I’m sure it’s fine!” contributes to the growth of mold and mildew in your home. As you may know, mold can cause breathing problems & more health issues for you and your family. Mold especially affects people who have allergies, asthma, and other respiratory diseases. Something that seems insignificant, such as a small leak, only needs 48 hours to grow mold.
This issue can be solved easily. Call us for our commercial and residential water damage services. We will dry out and clean up the water damage, all while keeping an eye out for mold. Should we find any signs of mold, we will call upon a third party company to perform a mold test. Why a third party? We take pride in the quality of our services. In order to maintain the integrity of our work, we rely on a third party company to test the air quality & mold in your home or business.
#2 Structural Problems
Is that painting crooked or is it the room?
Severe water damage can weaken your home’s structural stability. Your roof, walls, floors, & even your home’s foundation can be affected by the damages left behind from water. Avoid permanent damage in your home by hiring Scene Clean to:
After the water mitigation is complete, we can also provide our specialty services: build-back & restoration.
If the integrity of your home’s structure has been compromised, we will work with a building inspector who can determine what repairs must be made to be sure that your home is safe to enter.
#3 Electrical Problems
Water can easily damage the wiring throughout your home. This can lead to blown fuses, damaged electrical appliances, or -in worst-case-scenarios- fires or electrocution. Scene Clean is staffed with professional electricians. Be assured that after we have performed water damage clean up, our licensed electrician will arrive to inspect & -if needed- replace your home’s wiring.
Pro tip: Label the switches in your breaker box (or fuse box). Shut off the electricity in your home to avoid injuries if your home is flooded.
#4 Bacteria, Germs, & Parasites — ICK!
Depending on the source of the water damages, your home can be infected with bacteria, germs, and parasites. This is a common problem when homeowners experience sewage backup damages. This disaster definitely calls for professional services. If you fail to clean up efficiently, you & your family are at risk of developing illnesses such as hepatitis. The value of your home or property would also diminish as a result of insufficient clean up after a water loss.
#5 Chemicals
If the source of water in your home originated from outside, many things including hazardous chemicals could have entered your home in the waters damaging your house. Waters that have flooded your basement could also intermingle with household chemicals, creating a chemical-contaminated area. Play it safe and call us to professionally & safely clean your home or business.
Ready for expert care? When it comes to finding water damage services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. We have restored thousands of homes in our 9 years of service in the Frederick area. We can provide nearly all of your home service needs with our handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. So when this winter hits, keep us in mind for our water cleanup cleanup & restoration services.
240-575-5802
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Fall is nearly here and pumpkin spice is already in the air. Fall weather brings many wonderful things; such as campfires, pumpkin spice lattes, crunchy fall leaves, vibrant Fall colors, and more. It’s easy to understand why there is always such a hype for this oncoming season at the end of every summer! Unfortuantely, Fall can’t last forever and winter approaches quickly after! We’ve compiled a helpful list of maintenance that can be as a DIY project and some that require a call to a pro.
Scene Clean has the perfect check list for caring for your home this Fall:
#1 Caulk The Windows
Fall days are still warm but Fall nights can be chilly! Caulking windows will retain heat in your home on those beautiful, Fall nights. This is the least expensive job and is not terribly time consuming. When winter comes, openings may get wet and freeze. This can cause cracks and mold buildup.. Ick! This is an easy DIY!
#2 Peeling Paint
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Time to get outside and enjoy this beautiful Fall weather — by taking a walk around your home!
Inspect the exterior paint on your house to be sure there are no signs of peeling paint. Peeling paint on the exterior of your home can lead to the siding itself deteriorating which means expensive repairs come this time next year.
Pro Tip: The low humidity and cooler temperatures make Fall the perfect time to paint a home! We’d suggest giving us a call for professional results with none of your time consumed! Get a Pro!
#3 Cover Air Conditioners
Protect your air conditioners now for cooler days next summer. Vacuum out the internal parts of your air conditioners so they provide maximum performance next year. Remove units from windows and store them in a dry area. Be sure to protect your outside box with an air conditioner cover to prevent rusting of vital parts. The effort is well worth it and you’ll be thanking yourself next July! This job is a DIY!
#4 Deck Party!
Fall is the perfect time to prepare your deck for Winter. Clean your outdoor furniture. Inspect your deck for any cracked wood, peeling paint, or any other issues. This task could take a chunk of time — especially if you plan to clean and then stain your deck. Instead, call on Scene Clean for a professional power-wash for your deck. We can even restain your deck to match your Fall decor. Get a PRO!
Bonus tip: When the temperatures begin to drop, be sure your outdoor furniture and grills are safely stored or covered. Take ALL soil out of any planters as Winter will cause the soil to freeze and crack your beloved pots!
#5 Reverse Ceiling Fan
This isn’t a new dance move, it’s another task on your Fall maintenance list! By changing the direction of your ceiling fan to create an upward draft, warm air will be distributed from the ceiling. When you’re snuggled up sipping hot cocoa this Winter, you’ll be happy you did this quick DIY task!
#6 Seal the Driveway
Paved asphalt surface with a large crack
#WinterisComing and with it comes snow, ice, sleet, and more. Inspect your driveway for cracks. For DIY: Clean out and repair any damage you discover with driveway filler. Then, coat with a commercial sealer. Not so handy? We’ve got the resources to get a professional driveway sealer to your home in no time. This is a DIY or Pro task.
#7 Inspect the Roof
Call us Captain Obvious for listing this Fall Home Maintenance Task. Your home could take a beating in the height of Winter. The roof of your home is the first line of defense in protecting your home from ice, rain, snow, wind, and more. Your roof should be inspected for any missing or loose shingle before Santa Clause lands his sled on it. We recommend: Get a Pro! Call on Scene Clean to make professional roof repairs.
#8 Gutter Clutter
That’s really fun to say! Anyway…
When Fall leaves have decorated your home with their vibrant colors, it will be a stunning display. What’s not so pretty about the Fall colors? The clump of leaves in your gutters and downspouts. Flush out the clutter with water, inspect the joints of gutters for damages, tighten brackets if needed, and then enjoy a hot cup of pumpkin spice cider. This could be a DIY project but if you find any damages or leaks in your gutters, we highly recommend getting a Pro! We’ve seen gutter clogs leak into homes and create mold, and that’s the last thing you need during this Fall season.
Ready for expert care? When it comes to finding repair services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. We have restored thousands of homes in our 9 years of service in the Frederick area. Though we do not make HVAC repairs, you can count on us for other services such as air duct cleaning, handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. So the next time your air conditioner has leaked water all over your home, give us a call.
240-575-5802
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Summer is here and in full swing. Summer weather brings more than pesky mosquitos and cook-outs. Summer brings heat. For those without an air conditioning unit the summer heat can seem unbeatable. Whether you’re looking for AC repairs, a new AC unit is not in your budget, or turning on your AC is not in your budget, we can help.
NEVER FEAR! Scene Clean is here to help you beat the heat with these 12 tricks:
#1 Keep Your Body Cool
Stay cool as a cucumber — even without any air conditioning. This is simple trick has been passed down from our ancient ancestors.
Tasty iced drinks or a cold rag on your neck and wrists should do the trick. To further prevent breaking a sweat, consider dressing for the heat.
#2 Bathroom Fans
Pull the hot air out of your home with this simple trick: switch on the bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. If you’re living without air conditioning for a while, this is a must when cooking or showering.
#3 Jerry-Rig a Fan
While your kitchen and bathroom fans work their magic and pull hot air out, jerry-rig a fan to create cool air.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Fill your mixing bowl with ice or ice packs
*Note: Ice packs can be frozen repeatedly and can ultimately save money.*
Place the bowl in front of a large fan at an angle so the air blows just over the ice.
FINAL STEP: Sit in front of the magic you just created, sip an iced drink, and enjoy.
#4 When One Door Opens..
Close off rooms to prevent any precious, cool air from slipping away. Shut the doors and seal off the bottom of the door with a towel.
Use this trick all day long and during the night, as well. The more cool air you can collect, the better.
#5 Shut the Blinds
While this tip seems silly, anyone who has ever had a broken AC unit can atest: shutting the blinds really helps!
Windows create a decent percent of unwanted heat in your home.
Shut the blinds the keep the pesky sun from scorching your living room.
#6 Cool Side of the Pillow
Are you waking up in the middle of the night due to the heat in your home? When you’re in need of A/C repairs and there’s no handyman in sight, use this tip to stay cool overnight:
Change out your bed linens for cooler options. Fleece or flannel sheets will make you miserable. Instead, try an affordable cotton blend bed set.
#7 Counter-clockwise Fan Rotation
This sounds odd, doesn’t it? You’re probably thinking, How does setting ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise cool down my house?
We’ll tell you! In the winter, your ceiling fan should be set to a clockwise rotation. It will help distribute heat through your home. In the summer, your ceiling fans should be set to a counter-clockwise rotation.
Test it! If you feel a breeze while standing directly under your ceiling fan, you’ve got it on the correct rotation to beat the summer heat.
#8 Let the Night Air Flow
Do we really need to say more?
Temperatures typically drop during summer nights. Crack your windows before bed and set up a fan to help pull the cold air into your home.
Don’t forget to shut the windows in the morning or you’ll regret it!
#9 Light Bulb!
See what we did there?
Save on your power bill by switching to fluorescent lights. Common lights (incandescent) emit heat and that is the last thing you need when you’re trying to cool a house with no air conditioner.
#10 Is the Stove On?
Grab your icy drink and grill dinner outside. It may seem obvious but cooking inside will only increase the temperature in your home.
While you’re waiting on AC repair services to arrive, throw on some hot dogs and fill up the kiddie pool.
#11 Find Shade
Beating the heat means staying away from the sun! When your home is too warm to inhabit, head outside. If your yard provides shade, tie up a hammock, and kick back. If there are no trees to provide shelter, prop up some umbrellas.
Ready for expert care? When it comes to finding repair services near Frederick, MD or Walkersville MD, Scene Clean has your back. Though we do not make HVAC repairs, you can count on us for other services such as air duct cleaning, handyman repairs, emergency services, and more. So the next time your air conditioner has leaked water all over your home, give us a call.
240-575-5802
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