Articles

Case Study: ATI’s Cleanup of the Historic Tustin Hangar Fire

On November 7, 2023, a fire erupted at the historic former Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Hangar in Tustin, CA. Built in the 1940s, this massive structure was one of the largest wooden buildings in the world, spanning over 1,000 feet in length, 300 feet in width and standing over 17 stories high. The fire […]

Understanding Fire Damage

Joshua Woolen

Fire damage is devastating to the occupants and owners of a facility. The first responders battling the fire and those technicians tasked to perform emergency services, cleaning, and remediation may be exposed to safety and health risks. The building can be impacted as a whole or in part, affecting structure materials, assemblies, and contents. Fire […]

Miles from the Wildfires: How Smoke Impacts Business Equipment Far from Ground Zero

Ed Bauer & Gustavo Contreras

OVERVIEW  This discussion is intended for business owners, property managers, and anyone tasked with protecting and restoring commercial operations. It focuses on a wide-ranging overview: Smoke intrusions can pose a serious threat to the reliability, safety, and expected lifespan of business equipment, from building electrical switchgear and breakers to production-line electronics, printed circuit boards, medical […]

The Importance of Moisture Targets – Dry Standards and Drying Goals Defined

Lorne Mclntyre CR WLS FLS CLS ERS CSDS

Every water damage project eventually comes down to one simple question: is it dry? That question sounds easy until you are the technician standing in a finished basement with a moisture meter in your hand, an adjuster asking for justification, a homeowner asking when the equipment can be removed, and a project manager trying to […]

Managing Repair Programs: When They Make Sense in Your Business and When They Don’t

Kris Rzesnoski

“Should I include Managed Repair Programs in my business? I hear good and bad arguments on both sides, and I’d appreciate your thoughts.” Question submitted by TX Restoration Company Owner In the restoration industry, few topics generate as much debate as Managed Repair Programs. You’ll find very passionate people on both sides. Some contractors avoid […]

Lessons from 9/11: A Cautionary Tale for California Wildfire Cleanup

Tom Peter

The cleanup of the World Trade Center site after the September 11, 2001, attacks took nine months and cost billions. The dust from the pulverized towers was toxic and affected the health of thousands of workers. Additionally, the 9/11 cleanup revealed significant issues with untrained responders, many of whom were not fully prepared for the combined […]

Why Should I Use an Exit/Decon Chamber for Mold Remediation? Is It Really Important or is It Just An Unnecessary Cost?

Rachel Adams

There are several important components needed for successful containment. One of the most important components is the use of an exit/decon chamber. These chambers are attached to the main containment chamber and function as a transitionary space between the contained area and the unaffected areas. It provides a space for the technician to don and […]

Millions Are at Risk From Mold — Here Is Why the Industry Must Change Now

Skip Jankoski

The Mold Industry Is Lagging Behind Science The mold remediation industry is lagging behind science. For years, it has failed to adapt to noteworthy scientific evidence highlighting the serious health risks associated with water-damaged buildings and the mold and other microbial contamination they can harbor. Additionally, the industry tends to overlook abundant evidence indicating that […]

Understanding Homeowner Dissatisfaction with Mold Remediation: A Growing Trend

Arthur Yon

In recent years, an increasing number of homeowners have expressed dissatisfaction with mold remediation services. While some complaints are valid, stemming from under-qualified contractors or incomplete remediation, much dissatisfaction arises from misunderstandings regarding mold, its health effects, and the complexities of ongoing health issues. This article explores these nuances and emphasizes the importance of communication […]

The ANSI/IICRC S520-2024: A Critical Guide for Professional Mold Remediation

Jim Pearson

After years of volunteer efforts and thousands of hours in collaboration, the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) has released the fourth edition of the ANSI/IICRC S520-2024 Standard for Professional mold remediation. Written and edited by industry professionals, the S520 Standard is the authoritative resource for reasonably prudent members of the trade who […]