Water Damage, Mold and Restoration Companies in the Grand Rapids Area

What Makes Grand Rapids Different

West Michigan winters bring lake effect snow off Lake Michigan and many freeze and thaw cycles. Ice dams form along the eaves of homes with little attic insulation, and meltwater backs up under the shingles into ceilings and walls. Pipes in exterior walls and unheated spaces freeze and split, and the leak often shows up during the thaw.

The Grand River runs through the middle of the city, and in April 2013 it reached a record high after heavy rain on top of spring melt. Homes near the river and its creeks carry real flood risk, and a standard homeowners policy does not cover floodwater from outside. Most homes have basements that seep in wet springs.

A working sump pump with a battery backup, a dehumidifier and a backwater valve on the sewer line prevent a lot of damage. Summers are humid, and damp basements grow mold on stored boxes and drywall. Many homes in the older neighborhoods were built before 1978, so test for lead paint and asbestos before any demolition.