ADVANCED RESTORATION LLC

Super Bowl XLV

2011-02-02T15:42:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year again when family and friends gather around the TV for the annual Super Bowl game. Whether you are a football fan, you like good food, or you just like watching all of the funny commercials, there is something for everyone.

Who do you think will win this year? Do you have any Super Bowl traditions, recipes or story’s you want to share? Let us know and we will post it on our blog.

For a tasty seven layer bean dip click here

For Super Bowl party ideas click here

Ice Dams

2011-01-18T15:24:00.000-08:00

Did you know Advanced Restoration repairs roofs and homes, damaged by ice dams? Ice dams are formed on slanted roofs. Poor insulation causes heat to escape from the house, melting snow on the roof. The resultant water travels down to the overhang where it refreezes above the eave of the roof. This is an area that lacks heat. The formed ice creates a buildup or dam. Water cannot escape past this ice blockage, and therefore accumulates on the roof, eventually making its way beneath the shingles and may leak through into the house.

Preventing Roof Ice Dams

There are ways to prevent ice dams. Clean out all debris that has collected in the rain gutter, allowing water flow to be efficient. Clear ice and snow from gutters and down spouts. Reevaluate the insulation and ventilation in your attic. Do not use a blowtorch on your roof to melt ice; your home may catch on fire.

Quick Ice Dam Cure

2010-12-30T13:15:00.000-08:00

Can you imagine what it must have been like before technology?

Today we have life saving x-ray technology, solar panels to create natural energy, and the internet to find information and keep in touch with family members and friends that live far away.

Here is a list of some of the newest technology and inventions:

· Wall climbing car- This toy has a built in vacuum making it stay on any flat surface including walls and ceilings.

· USB memory watch- This watch has 8GB memory storage.

· Bluetooth laser keyboard- This virtual keyboard can perform all the same tasks of a regular keyboard completely wireless.
And of course…

· Flying car- This airplane/car is supposed to be introduced sometime next year! Want to see it for yourself? Visit http://www.terrafugia.com/

Advanced Restoration is no stranger to technology. We are one of the only restoration companies who use a FLIR camera. This device identifies the source and severity of water damage, defects in construction, and insect infestations.

Sources:
http://gadgetophilia.com/?s=christmas
http://gadgetophilia.com/10-best-gadgets-for-geeks/#more-8660
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2010/07/06/the-flying-car/

2010-10-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

OCTOBER MAINTENANCE

Fall is drawing near. Are you prepared? Look at this check list and prepare yourself for this year’s cold weather.

Get an HVAC inspection and cleaning.

Check crawlspace and attic for rodents and insects. Repair any holes that they can get through.

Do an inspection and cleaning for any chimneys and fireplaces.

Close crawlspace vents to prevent heat loss.

Power wash the exterior of your home.

Check weather-stripping on any entry doors.

Make sure any damage to caulking around windows and doors is repaired.

Have your roof inspected and clean roof vents.

Check for any damages on the exterior of your house that may need repair.

Paint house and refinish wood surfaces where needed.

Resources:
September Home Maintenance. (n.d.). Easy Home Improvement Projects. Retrieved September 13, 2010, from http://www.easyhomeimprovementprojects.com/september-home-maintenance.html
September Home Maintenance Tips Own Home Style .com. (n.d.). Own HomeStyle .com Advice on home improvement, home interior design, home loans & mortgages.. Retrieved September 13, 2010, from http://ownhomestyle.com/september-home-maintenance-tips/

2010-09-14T13:39:00.000-07:00

Travel Preparations

Travel is a great way to rejuvenate from a busy schedule. So go explore the world and learn about different cultures; Have a tropical experience in Hawaii, have an African safari, or maybe just have a reunion.

Planning a summer vacation? Just make sure to take the following precautions before you leave for your destination:

Water Damage Tips

Turn off your main water source- with the constant water pressure, pipes can burst causing a flood in your home.
Turn your water heater down.
Check seals on faucets, shower heads, and toilets. Repair any damage that has been done to caulking.
Switch out the rubber hoses on appliances (such as the washing machine) for the more durable steel hoses. This can help you avoid leaks.

Vandalism Tips

Don’t put a message on your answering machine, face book page, or blog that you are going on vacation. It is good to tell a trusted neighbor or friend that you are going on vacation so they can watch over your house, but telling anyone else is like saying, “I am going to be gone this weekend so feel free to rob me.”
Leave spare keys with a trusted neighbor. Thieves know to look under the mat and under rocks; if you leave a key outside your house they will find it.
Get a good alarm system.
Automatic lighting systems can make it look like you’re home.
Have someone pick up your newspaper while you are gone. Seeing a stack of newspapers on your porch alerts thieves that you are gone.

Fire Tips

Turn off or unplug appliances. If left on for too long, appliances such as candle warmers and irons can start fires.
Turn off gas to avoid leaks.
Make sure you are current on your home insurance and have a GREAT vacation!

Reference List
Allen, Josh. "Water Damage; Simple Steps to Protect Your Pocket 2." Free Articles Directory Submit Articles - ArticlesBase.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Aug. 2010. .
"Before leaving for a vacation, Take these precautions! Security World News." Home Security Magazine, Today's Online News, Security World News. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Aug. 2010. .
Bonincontro, Aldo , and James Mockridge. "The benefits of travel in your life experiences - Travel Diaries & Adventures (Other) - Helium." Helium - Where Knowledge Rules. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Aug. 2010. .
Sardone, Susan Breslow. "When to Go Where in July/August - Best Places to Vacation in July/August ." Honeymoons Romantic Getaways - No. 1 in Honeymoons - Honeymoons Ideas. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Aug. 2010.

Building You Up

2010-05-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

Most of you have probably already received our "Building You Up" puzzle ball. If you are having trouble putting it back together, here are a few simple pictures to help.

March MADNESS

2010-03-18T14:05:00.000-07:00

I think it’s a safe bet that many of you are tuning in to watch the upcoming NCAA basketball tournaments. I think it’s also safe to assume that many of you are placing bets on your favorite team with coworkers, at home, or with friends.

According to an article on CNN.com, workplace March Madness is true madness, costing US employers $1.8 billion!

http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/03/15/march.madness.at.office/index.html?hpt=C2

However in the same article, it is argued that the energy created via March Madness, may increase work productivity. A company’s vitality may be enhanced from the excitement generated through office-bracket pools.

It’s possible that March Madness creates unity and community within the workplace, as coworkers discuss the games. They are able to contribute their mutual knowledge, which invites a sense of belonging.

On the other hand, there is a reason madness is used to describe March’s event. Perhaps this could become the new ides of March! Who do you think will win?

http://www.cnn.com/2010/LIVING/03/18/bluffing.march.madness/index.html?hpt=C2

The Health Risks of Living in a Prior Meth Lab

2010-02-08T11:24:00.000-08:00

Meth labs not only affect those who live in them but those who live around them. Health risks vary depending on the chemical, the way it is exposed to the body, concentration and quantity. Chemicals can enter the body simply by breathing them in, by eating them, injecting them, and by being absorbed through the skin.

‘Acute Exposure: An acute chemical exposure is one that occurs over a relatively short period of time and may result in health effects. An acute exposure to high levels of contaminants found in meth labs cause shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, dizziness, lack of coordination, chemical irritation, lesions and burns to the skin, eyes, mouth and nose, and in severe cases, death. Acute reactions of this nature could occur during or immediately after a drug bust, before the lab has been ventilated.

Less severe symptoms resulting from a less acute exposure cause headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue or lethargy. These symptoms have been known to occur in people who have entered a drug lab after the bust has been completed, but before the property has been adequately cleaned and ventilated. These symptoms usually go away after several hours.

Corrosive Effects: Inhalation or skin exposure may result in injury from corrosive substances present in a meth lab. Symptoms range from shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, to burns to the skin.

Solvents: Exposure to solvents can irritate the skin, mucous membranes, respiratory tract, and cause central nervous system effects. They are also dangerous because of their fire and explosive properties.

Chronic Exposure: Chronic exposure occurs over an extended period of time, such as weeks, months, or years. A chronic health effect is one that usually appears after a lengthy period of time, possibly years. Not much is known about the chronic health effects from these labs. However, there is scientific evidence from animal and human toxicity studies that shows the chemicals used to manufacture meth can cause a range of health effects include cancer, damage to the brain, liver and kidneys, birth defects, and reproductive problems, such as miscarriages.’ (http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/DrugIssue/MethResources/meth_faq.html#6)

A good way to find out if your home was used to make meth is to talk to neighbors and the police department. Another great resource is to look at the drug registry list

www.usdoj.gov/dea/seizures/index.html

FOR PICTURES OF WHAT YOU SHOULD LOOK FOR TO AVOID RENTING OR BUYING A FORMER METH LAB GO TO:

http://methlabhomes.com/category/meth-lab-signs/meth-lab-pictures/

Reports obtained from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the DEA, show that no state comes close to Missouri for meth busts. California in 10th place had 68 meth lab busts in January alone. The pharmaceutical industry is now giving pharmacies in the state of Missouri a digitized system that will help in predicting who may be buying products for the manufacturing of meth.

If you suspect a meth lab, contact your local law enforcement office right away. Never try investigating the situation your self! For anonymous reasons you can contact www.seemethstopmeth.com or call 1-866-303-METH.

*Picture and graph from methlabhomes.com. Information from methlabhomes.com and drugfree.org

New Year New Start

2010-01-25T07:31:00.000-08:00

It has almost been a month now since everyone has either made or abandoned the idea of a new year resolution. It is a wonderful feeling to know that you can have a fresh start. But if you are anything like me you are gung-ho for the first month or two then you slip back into old habits.

A few things to keep in mind while planning your new year’s resolution. If you want a change it needs to be a life change. Don’t take on anything too big right away. Rather then taking on two or three goals choose one realistic goal. Slowly work into your goal. It helps to tell your friends and family, they can provide support and help you keep on track.

The middle of winter is a really hard time to get motivated to make a life change. starting small at first then taking the bigger steps in the spring will propel you further to your goal. Think pavlov! Reward yourself for your progress, if you go to the gym twice a week reward yourself with a new pair of shoes, or if your trying to cut back on spending splurge on a cappuccino with friends.

Making a life change isn’t always easy. Stay positive and good luck!

Make sure your new home is not a lemon

2010-01-06T21:13:00.001-08:00

Buying a new is one of the most stressful things. These days you have to be on the look out for, mold, faulty plumbing or electrical installation. and toxic chemicals from meth production. Advanced Restoration is a licensed contractor with years of experience in perfecting the quality of homes.

If you are in the search for your perfect home let advanced Restoration help you in making sure its a healthy home.

Carbon Monoxide the Silent Killer

2009-12-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

With the cold weather hitting this winter we are all running to turn the furnace on. Before you do make sure your furnace has been checked by a professional. The dangers of carbon monoxide (CO) are greater in the winter when you have the furnace on all the time. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death.

Also be aware of gas powered stoves, ovens and water heaters. If they are not properly ventilated, they too can release harmful amounts of CO into your home. CO is a toxic gas that enters the bloodstream and replaces the oxygen molecules found in the critical blood component hemoglobin, depriving the heart and brain of the oxygen necessary to function.

Symptoms are often related to flu-like symptoms including nausea, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, confusion and breathing difficulty. Because CO poisoning often causes a victim’s blood pressure to rise, the victim’s skin may take on a pink or red cast.

Most CO detectors will sound at 1,000 parts per million (ppm), for the safety of you and your family you will want to invest in a detector that will sound at, at least 400 ppm. Below is a list of concentrations and Symptoms

35 ppm (0.0035%) Headache and dizziness within six to eight hours of constant exposure

100 ppm (0.01%) Slight headache in two to three hours

200 ppm (0.02%) Slight headache within two to three hours; loss of judgment

400 ppm (0.04%) Frontal headache within one to two hours

800 ppm (0.08%) Dizziness, nausea, and convulsions within 45 min; insensible within 2 hours

1,600 ppm (0.16%) Headache, tachycardia, dizziness, and nausea within 20 min; death in less than 2 hours

3,200 ppm (0.32%) Headache, dizziness and nausea in five to ten minutes. Death within 30 minutes. 6,400 ppm (0.64%) Headache and dizziness in one to two minutes. Convulsions, respiratory arrest, and death in less than 20 minutes.

12,800 ppm (1.28%) Unconsciousness after 2-3 breaths. Death in less than three minutes.

(chart taken from Wikipedia)

For more information check out:

http://www.cdc.gov/co/faqs.htm

http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/coftsht.html

http://safetyathome.com/home-safety/home-safety-articles/test-your-carbon-monoxide-iq-and-protect-your-loved-ones/?fbid=N2uyOTPGshe

Dangerous Drywall

2009-11-30T15:52:00.000-08:00

You wouldn't expect your brand new home to make you sick but, according some Florida homeowners that is exactly what happened. The CPSC has received about 2,091 reports from residents in 32 states. Homeowners in Florida, Louisiana, Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi as well as many other states and U.S. territories that had homes built between 2006 - 2007 have complained of several health problems, itchy eyes and skin, asthma attacks, persistent cough and bloody noses. They have also complained of a "rotten egg" smell in their home, electrical wire failure, and metal fixtures and copper tubing turning black.

Drywall made in China is believed to be the source of the problem. High levels of hydrogen sulfide have been found in homes built with this particular drywall. If you believe you have contaminated drywall you should contact your state and local health department. The CPSC has not advised whether or not to take certain steps to test and remove the contaminated drywall. But warn homeowners to be cautious of persons or businesses advertising testing and remediation services. There may be unqualified or dishonest individuals seeking to take advantage of consumers struggling to address this issue. You should consult your State and local authorities if you have any questions or concerns about contractors or testing companies promising solutions to these drywall matters.

According to the CDC you should watch for potential electrical hazards in you home

Power outages - a circuit breaker which needs resetting frequently without any apparent cause; especially if a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) or arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) trips frequently. Arc-fault circuit interrupters are a special kind of circuit breaker that is designed to detect arcing conditions in the electrical wiring.

Dim/flickering lights - lights dim often without any specific cause, such as the air conditioner or the refrigerator turning on.

Arcs/sparks - bright flashes or showers of sparks anywhere in your electrical system.

Sizzles/buzzes - unusual sounds from electrical system devices.

Overheating - parts of your electrical system, such as switch plates, dimmer switches, receptacle outlet covers, cords and plugs may be warm as a normal consequence of their operation but should not be discolored from heat or painful to touch.

Odors - pungent smells such as strong fumes from overheating plastic or electrical insulation materials.

Electrical shocks - any shock, even a mild tingle.

Multiple symptoms would be a stronger indication of problems.

For more information please go to http://www.cpsc.gov/info/drywall/index.html

Pictures are from the CPSC Report

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

2009-11-23T07:56:00.000-08:00

Recycling is the act of taking something that isn't useful anymore and making it into something new. Everyone has at some-point has taken something old in their home they were just planning to throw out and transformed it into a new and viable, like a old shoe box into a keepsake box or an old window into a picture frame.

Most people are familiar with large scale recycling that takes used consumer goods and turns them back into raw materials to be made into something else. The most common things we recycle are paper, plastic, glass and aluminum. Don't forget that composing is a form of recycling too. Taking organic waist like food scraps and yard clippings and breaking them down to put back into the earth will save a lot of energy and free up space in our landfills. For information on how to start your own compost check out http://www.epa.gov/waste/conserve/rrr/composting/basic.htm for some easy tips.

large scale recycling is important to the environment and economy. When we can reuse materials to make other goods it cuts back on the amount of garbage going to our landfills, the United States is home to approximately 7,000 landfills. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average American produces about 4.4 pounds of garbage a day, 29 pounds a week and 1,600 pounds a year. Only about 20% of the garbage produced in the US is recycled, 70% of the garbage thrown out could have been recycled.

Remember those three easy words Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Just following these three words can save our precious resources and energy. Reduce what you use, buy reusable grocery totes, and choose products that come in the least amount of packaging. Reuse what you can and buy products made from recycled materials. And last of all recycle, These three word are in a certain order for a reason. Although recycling is important, it is also expensive and we need to do our part in making sure we get everything out of what we use.

Like all things there is a down side to recycling, it is expensive to run recycling programs. Most areas have curb side pick ups of recyclable goods, they then need to be sorted and cleaned, then transformed into new consumer products. Recycling causes its fair share of pollution as well. When recycling paper it needs to be bleached which brings different chemicals into the process.

Even though there are still energy costs and pollution that come with recycling, it is important to be aware of all the good it can create. Recycling teaches us to be aware of the products we use and to be more responsible with how we use them.

Utah has many recycling programs. below are links to the different county programs. Check out what is recyclable in your area and pick up schedules for your neighborhood.

"people feel that it's OK to purchase and use environmentally harmful products like bottled water or plastic diapers because they make up for it by recycling. These views point to the ultimate solution: buy less stuff. Purchasing reusable goods or simply buying fewer things we don't need is the best way to stop the garbage stream at the source." Ed Grabianowski

http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/10/06/recycling.refresher/index.html (fun facts)

http://www.thedailygreen.com/green-homes/latest/recycling-symbols-plastics-460321 (what recycle symbols and numbers mean)

http://www.slcgov.com/publicservices/Streets/recyclables.htm

http://www.co.summit.ut.us/publicworks/recycle.html

http://www.co.utah.ut.us/Dept2/Health/Environmental%20Health/Hazardous%20Waste/curbsiderecyling.asp

http://www.daviscountyutah.gov/health/environmental/waste_management/solid_waste.cfm

http://www.co.weber.ut.us/

http://www.sanitation.slco.org/html/recycle.html

New EPA lead regulations

2009-11-09T09:13:00.000-08:00

Common restoration activities like sanding, cutting and demolition work can kick up hazardous dust into the air containing lead particles that can be harmful to you and your family. As of April 22, 2010 all restoration companies will need to be in compliance with the EPA's new Renovation, Repair and Painting rule when dealing with lead-based paints. The new rule will apply to any housing and child occupied facility that was built before 1978. The EPA's Renovation, Repair and Paining rule states that all restores be certified by the EPA to handle projects involving "renovations preformed for compensation in target housing and child occupied facilities" (40 CFR, 745.80). Each project will also be required to have a certified renovator supervising the job.

Restoration firms should already be in compliance with phase one of the EPA's new regulations, restorers should handing out a pamphlet called Renovate Right! to home owners or occupants, it teaches homeowners about the dangers of lead and how to protect their families, http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovaterightbrochure.pdf . Phase two needs to be complete by April 22, 2010, by then any project manager/ supervisor should be certified to handle the renovation or removal of an area greater than six square feet covered with lead based paints in a home or child occupied facility.

The new regulations for dealing with lead based paints will require stricter practices in treating an affected area. Signs will need to be posted warning occupants of the dangers of lead and to stay out of work areas, better containing work areas so not to let dust and debris move to far from the source. The use of certain high speed paint removers will be limited.

Advanced Restoration is in the process of having all our estimators certified, we are committed to stay up to date with all current laws and regulations set by the EPA. We also hold ourselves to the high standards set by the Restoration Industry Association (RIA). Our goal is to keep home owners safe while restoring their home to its original beauty. It's just another way of "building you up" . For more information on the EPA new lead regulations visit http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm or call Advanced Restoration 888.886.1740

5 things to remember for winter driving

2009-10-01T12:17:00.000-07:00

1. Be prepared, make sure your car is fully equipped to handle all the snow and ice on the roads. Change to snow tires. Have an emergency kit in your car in case you get stranded in a snow storm. Your kit should include water, non perishable food, a flash light, a small shovel in case you have to dig snow out from under your wheels. If you get stuck in the snow, don't spin your wheels, you'll just be getting yourself deeper and deeper. Move your wheels back and forth to clear out snow and then rock your car back and forth to get the momentum to get out of the snow pack.

2. Slow down, black ice can form anywhere and once you hit it there is no stopping. Make sure you keep your distance from other cars. In the event that you start to slide depending on what type of breaks you have you will want to break slowly. If you have ABS brakes slowly ease into the break and you'll feel a pulse, which means they are working. If you have standard breaks pump your breaks, if you put full pressure on your breaks your chances of sliding out of control are greater.

3. Look ahead, if you are heading for a light be prepared that you might need to stop break sooner if you need to make a stop. During the winter months in Utah deer and other wild life come down from the mountains in search for food. Keep a look out for movement on the side of the road, if you see a deer crossing the street chances are they are not alone. Deer travel in packs.

4. Don't assume your vehicle can handle all conditions, just because you have a SUV with 4wheel drive doesn't mean you can go full speed down the road. Know the limits of your car by reading the drivers manual.

5. Avoid driving in snow storms if you can. The best way to stay out of danger is to stay off the roads during a storm.

Fresh Air, Fresh Veggies, Fresh Life

2009-09-15T07:45:00.000-07:00

I was recently visiting Melissa Felis's State Farm office in Salt Lake City and discovered that the back yard of their office, which is a converted home, is a wonderful vegetable garden. Melissa has donated the space behind her office to the residents of The Canyon Creek Assisted Living Center, and every week they come to work in the garden and take home some of the wonderful vegetables.

Melissa had the idea for a co-op garden, but said she doesn't have gardening skills. Eventually, one of her clients, offered to help her do the gardening. His wife works for the center and suggested the idea to have the residents garden as a weekly activity. Melissa wanted to give something back to the community, providing seniors and others who need food to have it provided. She believes in paying it forward. If you take something from the garden, she just asks you to do a little work in it! This is the garden's first year and will be continued next year.Seeing the garden in its peak got me thinking about the benefits of such gardens.

I have never been into gardening but the idea of a vegetable garden just seems marvelous. Having been a long-time beneficiary of my aunt’s garden, I recognize great- tasting fresh garden peas and heirloom tomatoes. I decided to see what it takes to manage a great garden, and with what I learned, I will be ready to plant at the first signs of spring.

I have a small yard and not much room for a big garden, but the amount of land devoted to a vegetable garden will return more than you could ever imagine. If you don't have a lot of space to devote to a vegetable garden, make a three foot by three foot grid and plant a different crop in each square foot. If space is limited you can grow some crops in large pots on a deck or patio.

A garden should be well planned in advance. Choose the sunniest spot in your yard, avoiding any areas that are too shady. Decide if you are going to plant in open soil or in raised beds. If planting in raised beds, they should be three to four feet wide and eight to 12 inches high and however long your space will allow. You can either pile the soil or enclose the beds in wood or stone frames. You can either pile the soil or enclose them in wood or stone frames. Open soil is perfectly fine for planting. Raised beds often allow the soil to warm quicker, therefore planting can begin sooner.

Get your soil ready with all the right nutrients. Mix in compost or well rotted manure, even if you are adding new top soil. Utah soil tends to lack nitrogen and phosphorous elements, apply three pounds for every 100 square feet of 10-20-0 fertilizer to supplement this deficiency.

Utah gardens can grow all sorts of vegetables. Broccoli, cauliflower, corn, eggplant, kale, asparagus, beans, tomatoes and all sorts of herbs are all grown in gardens across Utah. For information on planting and harvesting different crops, here is a chart from Utah State’s extension services:

Planting and Harvesting various crops

If you have an existing garden, fall is the time to do some early maintenance before the freeze. Remove dead and spent plants. If you want to get an early start on next season’s harvest, you can plant some vegetables now so they mature sooner in the spring. Timing is everything September is a good month to plant onions, carrots and spinach for next summer's harvest. Add some nutrients and cross your fingers.
For more information on gardening or joining a local community garden, check out the following site:

Wasatch Community Gardens

American Community Garden Association-Find your own community garden

Trees are the bee's knees

2009-08-24T11:16:00.000-07:00

Trees have many purposes. they provide us with oxygen, homes for wild life, shade on hot summer days, and add aesthetic pleasure to our surrounding. Sometimes trees can cause more problems then not. Trees can become sick and die creating an eyesore, they can disrupt the ground and push up any patio or structure the root may be under, they can they can block views and cause structural damage or they can interfere with electrical line or sewer lines creating disgusting and costly back ups in your home.

The life of a tree can very anywhere from 75 years to centuries old. If you are unsure if your tree is sick, there are a few signs that will help you determine your next step.fungus, disease or even old age can cause a tree to die. If your tree stops growing new leaves or if they are sporadic you should have your tree tested, other signs of a dying tree is brittle and pealing bark, loss of tree limbs or if the trunk is spongy. some diseases and fungi can be cured by an arborist.

if you need to remove a tree whether it is sick or just getting in the way, you should have a professional take it out. A tree needs to be taken out in sections so not to cause any structural damage to nearby homes, building or power lines. Advanced Restoration with any tree removal and have specialist that can repair any property damage as a result of a fallen tree.

If you want to get creative and add a unique quality to your garden, you can leave the stump and incorporate it as part of the landscape. Carve the remaining tree stump into a sculpture then treat it with a wood preservative. You can also have it hollowed out and use it as a planter. If you are into keeping a compost pile incorporate the stump, the pile will help the stump decompose faster.

Keeping it Solar

2009-08-03T12:36:00.000-07:00

All we here about these days is how to be more “green”. What does that really mean? And how does it all work? There are several different types of alternative energy including solar, wind and water. We can harness and use these energy sources to our advantage.

Solar energy is the easiest of all the renewable energies; it’s something that you can use right at home. Solar energy has been used since the beginning of time by plants and animals. The sun is the fuel behind phenomenal events in nature such as the summer-plankton boom along the coast of British Columbia and Alaska turning a lackluster stretch of water into a vivacious feeding ground for herring, whales, sea lions, birds and many others. Humans have learned to use the sun to distil water and use glass to magnify it

Photovoltaic panels are the most commonly used technology to capture the sun’s energy. Photovoltaic cells cause photons from sunlight to knock electrons into a higher state of energy, creating electricity. Though solar energy is a great alternative and can surely be used to provide us enough power to light, heat and adjust the temperatures in our homes, you need the sun and that’s not always possible. Solar technologies are really only beneficial for areas that receive a lot of sun year round. Pollution, cloud cover and nighttime, all greatly alter the effectiveness of the solar panels.

Storing the power that the panels generate is another problem. The methods we have now are not efficient or cost-effective. There are methods of saving the heat that panels absorb in salt and releasing the heat later when the sun isn’t available to create power. But this thermal method is only used by larger solar farms and has not yet been available for everyday use in your home.

DID YOU KNOW...

2009-06-16T14:23:00.000-07:00

It’s easy to spruce up your home and make it look like it just had a million-dollar makeover. All you need are a few key design elements and some elbow grease.

If you have a favorite chair but its fabric/pattern is out of date, take it over to your favorite upholsterer and update your chair with your favorite fabric. Add a unique and vibrant throw for those cozy stay at home nights, and you have a new focal point of your room. Adding a new area rug can really change the dynamics of your room. Wool and Persian rugs are timeless and, with proper care, can last a lifetime.

Update your wall paint; 2009 is all about bold combinations. Mix soft floral colors with a bright or dark color to enhance the architectural design of your room. Art says a lot about you and adds a personal feel to your home. If your budget is tight, look at your local galleries and the up and coming artist. New artists are usually the most affordable. If nothing catches your eye, have your vacation and family photos transferred to canvas and mount them on your wall unframed.

The easiest way to change the style of a room is adding a bold crystal vase left alone or filled with your favorite flower. This makes a statement and everyone will admire it. Add some life into your living space by including fresh flowers or a unique topiary on your table to add color and softness. Lighten up the area with a table or standing lamp. Lighting is essential to your space. The best lighting is natural light, so keep your blinds open and your windows clean.

Keep organized! Don’t feel bad throwing away anything you don’t like even if it was a gift. Don’t keep old newspapers or magazines around, they just create clutter. If it’s broken and too expensive to fix, chuck it! Keeping your home clutter free will make every day living enjoyable.

Now is the time for your personal style to show. Don’t hold back - make your home the place you want it to be.

Summer cash savers!!

2009-06-09T12:39:00.000-07:00

It is now easier than ever to save some COLD hard cash this summer. Cooling your home in the summer can be pretty expensive and a major energy sucker. Here are some ways to cut back but still cool off.

1. Set your air conditioner thermostat as high as is comfortable (78 degrees or higher is recommended for the summer and 65 degrees in the winter) the higher the setting in the summer and the lower the setting in the winter, the more energy you will save.

2. Don’t cool the outdoors. Keep your windows and window coverings closed during the day when the sun is shining. Make sure if you have a fire place you keep the damper closed. If allowed, it will let out eight percent of you air.

3. Switch to fluorescent light bulbs in fixtures that are used the most. They use 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 10 times longer. If you’re not going to be in a room for more than five minutes turn off the lights.

4. Run only full loads in the dishwasher and run it at night on hot days.

5. Wash clothes in cold water. Clean the lint filter in the clothes dryer after every use.

6. Set the temperature of your refrigerator between 37 degrees and 40 degrees.

7. Use a microwave, toaster oven or outdoor grill instead of the oven.

8. Unplug small appliances like coffee makers, toasters and TVs when not in use.

Check out rockymountainpower.net/saves for more energy saving tips.
http://www.energyquest.ca.gov/saving_energy/index.html

Kite Fastival Review

2009-05-04T07:37:00.000-07:00

On the beautiful and slightly breezy day of April 18, 2009 in southern Utah, Advanced Restoration was part of the 10^th Annual Dixie Escalante Kite Festival. In the early morning hours the tents for food, vendors and information went up along with the stage and many bounce houses and toys for the whole family to enjoy. The 28,000 people were planned to arrive starting at 10am. They had four school buses to shuttle the people from parking to the grass. All day long people came to enjoy the sun, entertainment and most of all the wind (when it decided to blow). Several times throughout the day we got some big gusts and kites scattered the air. Every picture I took did not do it justice, but it was beautiful to see all the kites in the sky.

There were many from the insurance industry volunteering and attending the event. Our friends from Main Street Insurance, Lenee Clark organized the entertainment and Jaron Hunt from Hunt Leavitt Insurance is the Chairman elect. We had many past customers come by and thank us for the wonderful work we did for them during their disaster. Overall the day was a big success. There was entertainment, food and kites all day. When the evening came The Cadillacs sang on stage and it ended with a beautiful display of fireworks. This is an event you won’t want to miss next year.

Hurricane Business Expo

Saturday, April 25, 2009, Advanced Restoration had a booth at the Hurricane Business Expo. They had several hundred people show up to see businesses in the area. Mark Drawe from the Hurricane State Farm office had a wonderful display. Gene Gallia from Allstate is one of Hurricane’s Chamber Twisters and came to visit us at our booth. We also saw Tracy Lessar from Bringhurst-Leavitt. We had a great opportunity to meet many of the residents and show off the FLIR camera. All were impressed with the technology. Several of our past clients came to our booth and said they would be glad to recommend us but hope we don’t have to see them again unless it is a party like the Hurricane Expo.

Swamp Cooler Faux Pas!

2009-03-23T09:47:00.000-07:00

It is that time of year when the weather is starting to warm up and most of us will be turning on our swamp coolers soon. Before doing so we have a few tips for you.

To get your swamp cooler running properly, clean out any dust and debris that may have settled in your unit and change out your evaporation pads.

As the weather started to get cold last fall, you should have disconnected the water line to your swamp cooler from both the unit and the water supply. The water line should have been blown out and kept disconnected until the spring.

If you didn’t disconnect your water line, there is a good chance that there could be a crack in it. If water gets trapped in the pipe, during the winter it will freeze and the water that remained in the piping expands which could leave cracks in it. When you turn on the water supply, water escapes from the cracks and can leave you with a big mess to clean up. If not caught soon, you could end up with major water damage and even mold.

When re-attaching the water line, make sure the ferrule is all the way onto the pipe. If not, when you tighten the compression nut to the water supply it has a tendency to move the ferrule off the pipe and creates a very unstable connection and the pressure of the water can blow out the waterline. Tighten the lines to both the swamp cooler and the water supply, make sure the connections are secure and you are set to turn on your water, and enjoy the nice cool air!

If you need to replace a water line we recommend that you get a copper supply piping, It the strongest and if properly cared for it will last the longest. The next best thing is a Pex line; it is a thick durable opaque plastic. If you are looking for the cheapest solution you can get a polypropylene line that is thinner and less durable plastic piping. If you have any questions or experience a leak, call Advanced Restoration!

Ethics Count!

2009-02-26T08:14:00.000-08:00

Ethics in today’s business world is hard to find. With some of the largest corporations failing across the nation, as well as worldwide, it’s not hard to see why. CEOs have been getting increasingly larger salaries and bonuses while the companies they were supposed to be running started crumbling right underneath them. We all heard about Merrill Lynch’s CEO John Thain who, as the company was barely afloat, paid more than one million dollars to refurnish his office.

Advanced Restoration isn’t close to being a multi-billion dollar business, but we do understand the power of ethics. We are not 100% perfect all the time, but we always promise to be honest and correct our mistakes. As Certified Restorers and members of RIA, Advanced Restoration is held to a high standard and ethical code which states:

We will do our work right and at a fair and reasonable price.
We deal competently and fairly with homeowners and insurance companies alike.
We only scope the damage involved, as we perceive it.
We do not enter into any agreements with homeowners, insurance adjusters or subcontractors to give or receive rebates or compensation not specified in the estimate.
We do not discuss our prices with competitors while bidding is still open
We will not enter into any secret agreements to do more work for less, as well as charging less for work done that the rate quoted in our estimate.
We are always in search of new research and developments in fire, water, vandalism and related disaster restoration to give our customers the benefit and most effective techniques available.
We keep excellent job records and administer our company’s affairs in accordance with business and accounting procedures.
Our estimates and opinions reflect our best professional judgment and nothing else.

For more information about RIA visit www.restorationindustry.org .

13-0 BCS Busters!

2009-02-04T11:40:00.000-08:00

Nobody thought it would happen but the Utes have done it again! An amazing win by the University of Utah in the Sugar Bowl has shown the world the Mountain West Conference is a force to be reckoned with. Utah beat Alabama's Crimson Tide 31-17 for their second BCS bowl game win.

Utah dominated the Crimson Tide with three touchdowns in the first quarter alone. Alabama got their name in the game in the second quarter with a field goal right off the start, but just couldn't keep it going.

After Utah's win many tried to blame the loss on the fact that Alabama didn't have Andre Smith on the offensive line to protect John Parker Wilson, who was sacked eight times in the game. But in reality, Utah played an awesome game. They held off Alabama's running game and blew past their defense. Utah definitely proved they were there to play and make a name for themselves.

Utah wanted to be there and they were excited to have the opportunity where Alabama was still brooding over their lose to Florida and the fact they didn't make it to the championship game.

Utah was the only team that had an undefeated season and should have been ranked number one but with all the National Championship bureaucracy, Utah landed at second on the AP poll with Florida at number one. Utah's head coach Kyle Whittingham was awarded the National Coach of the Year by the American Football Coaches Association.

UTAH VS. ALABAMA

2008-12-31T12:09:00.000-08:00

Jasen Ah You, our production manager and John Hunter, one of our estimator were both involved in coaching the University of Utah football team to a 12-0 season in 2008, and are helping to keep the winning streak going all the way to New Orleans. The Running Utes (ranked 7th in BCS standings) are set to face off against Alabama’s Crimson Tide (ranked 4th in BCS standings) on January 2nd. This will be a tough game for Utah and everyone (yah, even our BYU alum) are rooting for Utah and a perfect 13-0 season

This is the second BCS bowl game the University of Utah has been invited to in the last four years. In 2005 Utah beat Pittsburg 35-7. It was an amazing win for Utah, especially because they were the first non BCS team to make it to a BCS bowl game, and now the first team to do so twice.

Alabama is making their thirteenth trip to the sugar bowl. The last of which was in 1993 when they beat Miami for the BCS championship title. Alabama is favored to win, with a ten point lead over Utah. Utah will not go down so easily, however, they are in this game to win. Currently Utah holds the longest winning streak in the nation with 13 wins and has won the last six of their bowl games.

Just this week Andre Smith, Alabama’s offensive tackle was suspended and will not be playing against Utah. This is good news for The Utes; Smith is a superstar for Alabama’s offensive line. Smith was suspended from the team due to a violation of team rules.

GO UTES!

Building You Up

2008-12-24T11:02:00.000-08:00

An igloo appeared on the front of this year’s Christmas card from Advanced Restoration. Here is a little history on igloos: The word igloo is an Inuit word for house or dwelling. Igloos are ingenious buildings that can save lives. Did you know a well-built igloo can get as warm as 61 degrees Fahrenheit, with temperatures as low as -40 degrees outside? The inside of an igloo can trap warmth by body heat which will increase temperature.

Ice crystals interlock as the snow is cut into blocks. A strong igloo can hold the weight of a man standing on top of it. Some lamps are used in igloos which cause the snow to melt a little, which actually strengthens the igloo from the inside. Igloos are constructed by forming a circle the size you would like your igloo to be. Then well-cut blocks are carved from the middle and placed around the edge of the circle. A portion of a few of the blocks are then shaved down to the ground on the first circle so the remaining blocks stack in an ascending order. This is how the igloo is eventually closed at the top. A hole is cut in the side and in the roof to allow for air circulation.

Some igloos were constructed for temporary overnight shelter for hunting trips, and others were constructed for longer stays and included up to five rooms and housed up to twenty people. Advanced Restoration takes the same pride in rebuilding your home. Building You Up is never far from our minds. Please have a safe and happy holiday season!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pia4i5sr0o0

Hiring A Handyman

2008-11-17T15:18:00.000-08:00

As the real estate market declines, many homeowners are considering remodeling their homes. The stress of hiring a contractor can be bad enough, without worrying about a possible criminal record, or sordid past. You have to be careful about who you let in your home. Whether it’s a landscaper, contractor, or electrician who you are hiring, each should be qualified and licensed through the state.

There are many qualified and honest contractors, but there are also many that are not licensed to do the work and can leave you with a hole in your pocket and a big mess to clean up. The state licensing division is not required to do a background check on applicants. It is up to you, the homeowner, to protect yourself.

Here are a few tips to consider when hiring a contractor:

1. Get at least three bids on any project you have going on.
2. Ask them to supply you with past customers you can contact to ask about their experience and how they like the work; don’t forget to ask if you can come view the work yourself.
3. You don’t always want to go with the cheapest bid. Ask friends and family members for recommendations. Check with the state to see if the contractor is licensed in their field, https://secure.utah.gov/llv/llv .
4. Make sure you ask any questions you may have. Is each contractor given a background check? Are their employees drug tested?
5. Do not pay in full. Give a small down payment and only pay more as the work progresses.

At Advanced Restoration we do a thorough check on all our sub contractors. We make sure they are licensed and properly insured to do the work. We care about the quality of our work and that it is done properly the first time. We also understand and abide by code regulations and standards.

At Advanced Restoration, our licensed contractors are skilled in home renovations as well as add-ons. We want the process of remodeling your home to be as painless as possible and we promise to do the work right and on time!

2008-10-27T09:52:00.000-07:00

It’s a Friday night and kids are running around practically unrecognizable in crazy and scary costumes, out to collect a stockpile of candy to last a lifetime. A group of young teens, happy to be out of the house start from house to house, looking for treats. However being at an age where most people feel they are too old to be trick-or-treating, boredom sets in after only a few houses. The adolescents get creative and begin to find humor in toilet-papering or egging someone’s house. Now the old saying, “Trick or Treat” becomes a real threat.

Kids may think it is fun to spray paint your house or send a stink bomb through your mail slot, or throw eggs at vehicles, but the damage that occurs is no laughing matter. Many acts of vandalism start out as small pranks that escalate into costly property damage. Eggs can discolor the paint on your home and car.
Taking a few steps to protect your home can end up saving you money. Make sure your home is well lit, making it harder for vandals to hide in the shadows. Be on the lookout for your neighbors’ homes as well, and ask them to do the same for you.

If you have kids of that age, talk to them about the consequences of vandalism. Let them know the dangers and the possible repercussions that will follow. Let them know it’s not just a harmless prank, but it will end up costing someone hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars in damages.

Whether it’s a firecracker in your mail slot or spray paint on the side of your house, Advanced Restoration is here to help if you happen to be a victim of vandalism.

WINTERIZING YOUR HOME

2008-10-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

With winter right around the corner, there are several things that as homeowners you need to be aware of. In our line of work we see flood after flood, especially during the springtime. Most of these can be prevented in the fall by doing a few simple things around the house and yard.
Start by turning off your outside water and detaching your hose, this allows the excess water to drain out the pipe. If not, water gets trapped in the exterior water faucet where the hose connects and slides back into the pipe. When the water freezes, the pipe expands causing it to crack. The pipe is underground and is not visible. When you turn on your water on in the spring, the water escapes out the cracked in the pipe, and only has one place to go, your basement!

If you have a sump pump, make sure it is draining properly by pouring water into the sump tank, watch to make sure the float rises and is able to trigger the pump. If the pump is working properly the water should drain quickly and lower the float to shut off the pump. If float does not trigger the pump check the float, it may be catching on something, reposition the pump and try again. If this does not work you’ll most likely need to replace the float. If the water starts to lower and the pump doesn’t shut off, this also indicates you need a new float.

Drain your swamp cooler completely and clean out the bottom tray. Remove the buildup of mineral deposits so that it doesn’t freeze and become impossible to remove in the spring. It is vital to disconnect the water line from both the unit and supply. Blow out all the excess water to prevent freezing. Cover the unit to protect from snow.

Clean out your gutters and storm drains. As the snow starts melting, keep a clear path for the water to go. Your down spouts should be pointed to a well draining area to carry the water away from your home. Downspouts should not be positioned near window wells or hills. If your gutters are full of dirt and leaves, the melting snow and rain can back up and can form an ice dam if freezing occurs. Ice dams are formed on slanted roofs. Poor insulation causes heat to escape from the house, melting snow on the roof. The resultant water travels down to the overhang where it refreezes above the eave of the roof, and where there is also a lack of heat. The formed ice creates a frozen buildup or dam. Water cannot escape past this ice blockage, and therefore accumulates on the roof, eventually making its way beneath the shingles and may leak through into the house.

Have your furnace and ducts inspected and cleaned before turning your furnace on. Check all of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working properly. Have your chimney flue cleaned and make sure the damper is opening and closing properly. If you use a gas fireplace have that inspected as well. Have a fire extinguisher on hand in your home, if you have one and it’s older than ten years, it should be replaced.

If you need any help or have questions call Advanced Restoration 888.886.1740

Home Sweet Home

2008-09-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

Advanced Restoration is here to not only help restore the quality of your home, but to build the quality of your life. With the real estate market declining in Utah as well as nationwide, many people are forgoing selling their home and are thinking about remodeling instead. Remodeling could be in your best interest because of the money you may be able to save and potentially invest.

Every situation is different and every one needs special attention. For instance, maybe you don’t feel your house is big enough to accommodate your growing family but you have great neighbors or your child’s school is excellent. When remodeling you have the control over the features and style you want, without the hassle of moving. Rarely do you find a home that is perfect the way it is, but with you making the decisions it can be. Ultimately, the cost and time spent selling and fixing up a home can be just as much as a renovation. With the right additions and changes, remodeling can increase your selling price if you do decide to move.

When you remodel with the intention to sell in the near future, keep your changes simple and reasonable. Stay with classic looks and don’t go for the style of the moment. Often homeowners will go overboard with changes that become turn offs for potential buyers. The shag carpet in the 70’s and today’s over-the-top bathrooms with giant Jacuzzi tubs might fit into this category.
Also keep in mind the value and style of your neighbors’ homes. The buyers looking in your neighborhood may or may not appreciate your efforts. They might not know the difference between granite counter tops and Formica.

Advanced Restoration is fully equipped to assist you in any remodel needs, from the simplest project to home expansion. You spend so much time in your home, so make it relaxing and a place you can enjoy!

The Silent Storm

2008-09-02T10:56:00.001-07:00

After a fire, your home can be consumed by the smell of smoke. It can be unbearable to live with and to make matters worse, it is absorbed by any surface, including walls and furniture. Ozone is a safe chemical-free deodorizing process that will remove any smell; from smoke to pet odors. At Advanced Restoration, we use this gentle deodorizing process to restore your home and its contents back to the great smell free items they were.

The earth’s natural ozone layer is produced through the interaction of solar energy and oxygen in the atmosphere, such as lightning and thunderstorms. This natural occurrence in our atmosphere has been duplicated in a form that allows us to create ozone whenever and wherever. This process uses a discharging phenomenon that occurs between two electrodes when high voltage is applied. Dielectric materials, such as glass are applied between the electrodes, resulting in the current not passing between the electrodes. And unlike thunder and lightning, there is no intense light or loud thunder.

Ozone is composed of three atoms of oxygen; the third oxygen atom in ozone is unstable and wants to react with an organic material, such as an odor-causing carbon molecule. When the third oxygen atom breaks off from the other two oxygen atoms, they simply turn into oxygen and the third atom becomes a powerful oxidizer that breaks down odor molecules and converts them into water vapor and carbon dioxide, without leaving a perfume or residue.

The process takes up to eight hours but eliminates the odor for good. It is important to note that ozone is hazardous to breathe. If this process is used in your home, you and your pets should not be present until the ozone process has been complete. This process can even be used in your car to remove cigar and cigarette smells. Though large amounts of ozone are not good to inhale, it is by far safer to use than a chemical process that leaves lingering residue.

Sources:
http://www.oki.com/en/otr/209/downloads/otr-209-R07.pdf

Restoration Reports; About Ozones by Michael Schumer
The Use of Ozone in Restoration Services Michael Schumer March 1987

Advanced Restoration supports your community

2008-08-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

Advanced Restoration believes in buying local first. As members of a community we should support the businesses that keep our neighborhoods thriving. Locally owned businesses preserve local character, prosperity, and have a key role in long term low prices. Business owners are usually more willing to contribute to their communities in a way that big chains can’t. As a locally owned Utah business Advanced Restoration has supported our local communities, we are proud supporters of Shriners Children’s Hospital, Primary Children’s Hospital, local high school sports teams, Christmas Box House, and youth reading programs.

Advanced Restoration serves Utah communities by helping people rebuild their homes and businesses after a disaster. By contracting and employing local trade professionals we are also contributing to the local economy.

Local businesses create more jobs locally than chains and in most sectors provide better wages and benefits. In the long run with the competition of small businesses prices decrease and cities stay viable, walk able, livable places that help to decrease sprawl and energy prices. They offer more diverse products and services.
Advanced Restoration encourages you to use local businesses in your area http://www.localfirst.org/

The latest in continuing education

2008-07-21T12:11:00.000-07:00

Many of you may have questions about whether or not you are able to retake a CE course, even after the two year renewal period. According to NAIC rules, a producer is allowed to repeat a course number, but they cannot take it more than one time per renewal period, nor can they receive credit for a second time. They can however repeat a class each renewal period and count it for credit, if they so choose.

The current rule R590-142 says otherwise, but that rule is currently under major re-construction. Until it's formally in place, the NAIC is allowing us to follow what is currently accepted, which is to allow for repeat courses.

At Advanced Restoration, we offer 11 continuing education courses, including our newest course on ethics, called Ethics Count! Look for this class in our online monthly newsletter. To sign up for our e-newsletter and to get up-to-date information about our CE classes, Please email: Kristin

If you have questions about the courses you've previously taken, Sircon will give you a list of all your continuing education credits.

Summertime Events

2008-06-30T08:22:00.000-07:00

Over the last month, Advanced Restoration had the opportunity to attend many industry functions. “We love to be out mingling with our clients. Thank you to all who put in so much time and effort to make these events so successful.” Deon Hahn, Advanced Restoration.

At the UAIIA convention this year, we sponsored a booth with a tropical theme. We had hula music, a tiki hut, tropical treats and plenty of give-a-ways. Saying that our booth was unconventional is an understatement. But, we won everyone over by handing out orange dream ice cream bars. We can’t wait until next year!

The Bear River and Independent Adjusters golf tournaments were held in June as well. We had a great time challenging all the golfers to hit the longest drive. We handed out $150 cash prize to the winners. See if you can find yourself in the slide show below.

Golf Tournament Slideshow

2008-06-27T11:46:00.001-07:00

A little help goes a long way

2008-05-30T08:45:00.000-07:00

Advanced Restoration recently had the opportunity to donate to a charity of their choice. We felt Shriners Hospital for Children in Salt Lake City was the perfect place to do so because, this little hospital at the top of the hill, gives in a big way.

From Left to Right: Katie, Advanced Restoration LLC; Mike Babcock, Shriners Hospital; Deon, Advanced Restoration LLC

Shriners Hospital restores health and hope for children; a priceless gift. They are equipped to handle nearly all orthopaedic problems, excluding trauma cases, and each surgery performed is designed to improve quality of life. Whether it’s specialized care or financial assistance, these children and their families, get the attention they desperately seek.

Next to the talented health care professionals, they have hundreds of volunteers who help keep the hospital running. We arrived shortly after an Olympic athlete, who came just to spend his time with the children.

In addition to the standard hospital facilities, Shriners Hospital offers a large recreation area, a school and tutoring center, and on-site therapists and technicians who build prosthetic limbs and wheelchairs for the patients. We were able to speak with the wheelchair therapists about the need they see and the care they are able to provide. The therapists tailor every chair to the specific requirements of each child: manual or automatic, shape and size. On average, a new wheelchair with power-steering can cost as much as $20,000! But, last year, Shriners Hospital was able to provide over 200 wheelchairs at no cost to the families in need.

With little room for storage, wheelchairs are placed in the hall-way to accommodate their growth.

The hospital is run from an endowment created by the Shriners fraternity. Because of generous donations to the hospital, Shriners is able to provide quality pediatric care. Shriners need is on-going because health care, as we all know, is extremely expensive.

From Left to Right: Mike Babcock, Shriners Hospital; Kristin and Deon, Advanced Restoration LLC

Upon arrival to the hospital, one of the representatives for Shriners warned, “we’ll really get in your blood!” She was right.

For more information about Shriners Hospital for Children or, details on how you can become a donor, please visit their website.

It's all about who you know

2008-05-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

There is power in networking. Advanced Restoration has seen the benefits of this concept through an association they belong to called Business Networks. Deon and Wayne, Advanced Restoration’s two owners, assemble with the owners of 11 other restoration companies around the nation, every 6 months, to critique their peer’s business methods. This ensures each business is analyzed once every 6 years.

Two weeks ago, they flew to San Antonio, Texas for a networking conference. The focus this time was not on an individual company but about two main aspects of any business, finance and marketing. They were able to learn new and more efficient ways to tackle these areas by sharing experiences and gaining knowledge from third party experts.

The red dots on the map represent the diversity of the group

Great friendships have been created within the group and everyone is willing to help share in the success of the industry. With an average of 20 years experience per company, how could they go wrong?

Business networks have several different chapters. They arrange the groups based on certain criteria including, type of industry, overall size, and whether or not you are in direct competition.

Out of several hundred companies in the business networks program, Advanced Restoration has consistently been ranked in the top 15. This year they are in the 13th position. These ranks are based on many circumstances including, finance, knowledge, and how well they follow through with the goals set.

Advanced Restoration sees the value in having an open mind about the aspects of their business. They take away the best practices from the group and implement them directly to be the best company they can be.

To learn more or, if you are interested in participating in a networking group of this kind, please visit their website.

April Showers Bring May... Flooding?!

2008-04-30T12:12:00.000-07:00

Picture by Sandi Sabin, ksl.com
Spring time seems to be a magnet for water damage. As the weather warms and the snow melts, flooding is imminent. Utah cities such as Lehi and Springville are preparing themselves for the possible damage. “Sandbags are on standby, and the city has already established three sandbag pick-up locations. Right now, the city says if the snow pack doesn't melt gradually, big problems are ahead in May.” (ksl.com, March 26, 2008)

But, Mother Nature is not the only one responsible for the excess of water. Water pipes in our homes may have frozen due to lack of use and cold temperatures during winter months. Many homeowners find un-wanted water in their basements when they turn on their outside hose in the spring; see below for some tips to prevent this.

Saratoga Springs, UT 2008; picture by Kathy Kinghorn, ksl.com

Here are some helpful tips to keep your home dry:

Do not use heat to dry closed building interiors; mildew and expanded moisture damage may result.

The faster you can get the wet areas dry, the better. The first 48 hours are the most critical for mold prevention.

Before turning on your outside hose, have someone stay inside the home to be sure there is no water coming in (this usually occurs in the basement).

Do not operate TV's, vacuums or other appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors. Serious injury may result.

For more do’s and don’ts about water damage, please go to: our website. If you do find yourself with water damage, Advanced Restoration is ready to help!

Fired-up about the Flir!

2008-04-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

Advanced Restoration is one of the only restoration companies that uses an infrared camera, allowing inspections to be more comprehensive and thorough.

Flir cameras or Thermal Imagers detect variations in temperature. These variations allow our Certified Infrared Thermographers to identify the source and severity of water damage, defects in construction, insect infestations, etc.

Some of the high-tech camera's many uses are employed in warfare and include its capacity to operate at night and to see through smoke and fog. It is also used in combat for its ability to detect heat, which is difficult to disguise. Advanced Restoration's Flir camera is one more tool, allowing us to serve your clients promptly and accurately!

Advanced Restoration Introduces: Easy-Claim

2008-03-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

Are you unsure whether or not to file a claim? Our expert estimators will come to your property to asses your damage for free!

This will be an opportunity for property owners to receive a personalized eyewitness opinion of the damage to their home or business. And, the best part? It’s absolutely FREE!

We believe that this informational meeting will reduce confusion and fill the gap that is felt during the claims process, making it oh-so easy!

Top 5 things you MUST know before you file an insurance claim!

2008-03-20T10:30:00.000-07:00

1. Is my loss covered?

You should be very familiar with your policy. Too many people make the mistake of assuming they have proper coverage when in fact, they do not. Take time to go over the details of your insurance plan with your insurance agent. They are there to help you! With this important knowledge you will decrease the chance of surprises in the event of a claim.

2. What is an insurance deductible?

When you have a covered loss, the insurance company pays for all of the cost minus the deductible. You are responsible to pay the deductible portion of the repairs. In most cases, your insurance deductible will be paid to the restoration company providing the service on your home. Typical home insurance deductibles range from $500 - $2,000 depending on your insurance policy. It's best to think of your deductible like the insurance co-pay you would give your medical professional before a doctor's visit. However, if you have a claim that is below the dollar amount of your deductible, you are responsible for the entire cost.

Picture from ksl.com, Utah wind storms, August 2006

3. How do I know if I should file a claim?

Deciding whether or not to file a claim can be a tough decision. You should consider the amount of your deductible against the cost of the job. If there is a small difference in the two numbers, it may be smarter to pay the entire cost for the repairs instead filing a claim through your insurance. Insurance claims can increase your premium over a 3-5 year period and in many cases, cost you more money in the long run.

Advanced Restoration offers a free-opinion service to aid you in your decision. Our knowledgeable estimators will come out to your home for free and give you their expert opinion based on the damage.

4. Do I have to use the Restoration company recommended to me?

You have the right to choose the company that restores your property damage. Insurance companies may recommend some restoration companies to you in the event of a loss. Keep in mind that this may not guarantee quality work. It is against the law for any insurance company to force you to work with someone you don't agree with. Some good questions to ask before deciding on a company are:

Do they hold the title of "Certified Restorer"?

Do they use trades-professionals?

How long have they been in business?

In our opinion, value should come before price. Remember, this is your home and you should feel comfortable with the chosen contractors.

5. Who do I call when I have questions about my claim?

Your insurance agent can help with claim advice and possibly tell you if your loss is covered. Your insurance adjuster is the person who will oversee the cost and repairs of the claim. The estimator from the assigned restoration company can answer questions about your scheduled repairs. Communication is key, don't hesitate to pick up the phone and get your questions answered.