storm damage

Protecting Your Home From Storm Damage in New Jersey

As a homeowner in New Jersey, storm damage can be one of the most destructive, costly and scary experiences you might encounter. Unfortunately with our mild climate, storms occur often during all times of the year! While nothing is fully guaranteed to protect your home from potential damage due to severe weather systems, there are some important steps that homeowners should take as precautions - and Green Restoration & Reconstruction is here to help support your needs if storm damage strikes. In this blog post we’ll discuss practical ways for protecting your home from possible storm damages in New Jersey.

Understand Your Risk of Storm Damage in New Jersey
New Jersey, often referred to as "The Garden State," is no stranger to the wrath of Mother Nature. As a coastal state, it is susceptible to frequent and powerful storms that can result in significant damage to property and infrastructure. Understanding your risk of storm damage in New Jersey involves recognizing the potential hazards associated with living and working in this location. Tropical storms, hurricanes, snow blizzards, and even tornadoes can all wreak havoc on this beautiful state. No matter where you reside in New Jersey, being aware of the risks and taking preventive measures is essential. By staying informed about weather conditions and implementing necessary preparedness measures, you can reduce the impact of these storms on your life and lessen the potential for property damage or injury. Embracing this awareness will not only safeguard your assets but also contribute to a more resilient community, better equipped to face the challenges posed by severe weather conditions.

Prepare Your Home for Storms with Proper Maintenance
When it comes to protecting your home and family from the adverse effects of storms, proper maintenance is essential. An adequately maintained home not only ensures everyone's safety inside but also helps minimize potential property damage during these inevitable natural occurrences. Begin by assessing the integrity of your roof, windows, and doors, as these should be capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, regularly trim branches or remove trees that might pose a threat during strong winds, as well as secure or stow away outdoor items that could be hazardous if tossed around. Additionally, keep gutters and downspouts clean to allow for efficient water flow and avoid any potential flooding issues. By paying extra attention to these vital details, you can provide a more secure environment for your loved ones, while also preserving the long-term value of your cherished home.

Be Aware of the Different Types of Storm Damage
As we go through life, it's important to be aware of and prepared for the different types of storm damage. Weather-related havoc may often be unpredictably devastating, but by familiarizing ourselves with the varied ways in which storms can inflict harm, we are better equipped to handle these natural disasters. From the brute force of hurricanes to the stealthy destruction of hailstorms, every storm has its own mechanism of causing damage. Be it the torrential downpour of a rainstorm overwhelming a home's foundation or the merciless winds of a tornado tearing rooftops apart, numerous unforeseen consequences can arise from these turbulent events. It is crucial for individuals to not only heighten their knowledge about storm damage but also to take the necessary precautions—such as reinforcing their homes, acquiring insurance protection, and creating emergency response plans—to protect their loved ones and property from these jeopardizing calamities.

Invest in Home Insurance to Protect Your Assets
Home insurance is a crucial component of being a responsible property owner, as it allows you to safeguard your valuable assets in the event of unexpected disasters or unforeseen damages. By investing in a robust home insurance policy, you have the peace of mind knowing that your hard-earned investments are protected, giving you the confidence to focus on living a fulfilling and stress-free life. Incidents such as theft, fire, natural disasters, or accidents in the home can lead to devastating financial losses that can be overwhelming to cope with. With the right home insurance coverage on your side, you can mitigate the impact of any unfortunate circumstance and maintain your family's well-being and the stability of your financial future. So, take the proactive step of exploring various home insurance options available in the market, and find a solution tailored to your unique needs that will protect both your physical and financial assets.

Know How to Safely Secure Your Property During a Storm
As unpredictable and destructive as storms can be, it is essential to ensure the safety and security of your property during such challenging times. Taking proactive measures not only limits the potential damage to your home or business, but it also gives you priceless peace of mind. To effectively safeguard your property, make it a priority to inspect your roof and gutter system for any vulnerabilities, as these are often the first line of defense against strong winds and torrential rains. Equally important are securing outdoor items and debris that could become hazardous projectiles in the midst of a storm. Moreover, investing in storm shutters and reinforcing weak spots in doors and windows can significantly reduce the likelihood of forced entry or unwelcome intrusions by stormwater. Above all, always follow local weather alerts and emergency guidelines because staying informed is the key to staying safe. Do not hesitate to consult with professionals for an expert assessment and personalized guidance on fortifying your property for severe weather events.

It is important to take the necessary precautions to protect your home before, during, and after a storm hits. New Jersey residents need to be aware of their risk of storm damage, have proper maintenance of their home, be knowledgeable of the different types of damages that can occur due to storms, have homeowners insurance for protection against extreme weather, check the local forecasts before leaving home, and know how to safely secure a property in an emergency. Taking these steps can make a huge difference when it comes to protecting your family and property from extreme weather. For those times when you find yourself needing aid after storm damage has already occurred, Green Restoration & Reconstruction can step in to help restore your home so you can get back on track quickly.

Water Damage / Wind Damage - 05/01/2023
flood damage

Protecting Your Property from Flood Damage

When it comes to protecting your home, flood preparation is key. Unfortunately, floods and water damage can happen on short notice with little or no warning and if left unchecked, can cause destruction that takes years to repair and restore. Thankfully, at Green Restoration & Reconstruction we have the experience and knowledge you need to not only plan ahead for potential flooding issues but also help identify existing problems before they get out of hand. With our guidance, you'll be well prepared so that when disaster strikes you're able to recover from it quickly with minimal losses!

Understand your risk — research local flood-prone areas and what to do in the event of a flood
Did you know that understanding your local risk when it comes to flood-prone areas can be a potential lifesaver? It's essential for those living in such regions to be aware of both the threat and necessary precautions to take during such emergencies. Ignorance could lead to loss of valuable property or, even worse, endangerment of lives. To be well-prepared and minimize such risks, make it a habit to research any possible flood-prone areas in your neighborhood. Equip yourself with knowledge on what to do if a flood occurs, such as evacuation routes and safety tips. Stay updated on weather forecasts to anticipate potential floods, familiarize yourself with local resources, and develop an emergency plan that involves your family members. This way, you'll feel more secure and confident in safeguarding what matters most during unforeseen natural disasters.

Inspect your property for potential weak points that could cause flooding
As a property owner, it's essential to be proactive in safeguarding your home from the destructive effects of flooding. One effective way of doing this is by thoroughly inspecting your property for potential weak points that could allow water ingress. Start by assessing the exterior walls and foundation for any cracks or signs of wear and tear, as these could provide an easy passage for water to enter your home. Next, examine your roof and gutters, ensuring they are in good condition and free from debris that could lead to blockages and flooding. Additionally, it's wise to check your landscaping and drainage systems, confirming that water can flow away from your property with ease. By undertaking this essential inspection process, you can take action to reinforce any vulnerabilities, ultimately protecting your property and maintaining its overall value - while granting you peace of mind in the face of unpredictable weather patterns.

Install sensors or detectors to alert you of any leaks or water damage
Imagine never having to worry about unexpected water damage caused by leaks in your home, office or building. By installing state-of-the-art sensors or detectors, you can be instantly alerted to any problematic leaks or potential water damage, allowing you to address the issue before it spirals out of control. These innovative devices combine cutting-edge technology with an easy-to-use interface, allowing homeowners and property managers alike to maintain optimal control over their environment. Long gone are the days of slippery bathroom floors, soaked carpets or mold-ridden walls, thanks to advanced water sensing systems. Embrace the security and convenience of leak detection and prevention, fiercely protecting your investments and keeping your space pristine.

Install a sump pump to remove water from your basement or crawl space quickly
Having a sump pump installed in your basement or crawl space is a game changer for homeowners who constantly deal with water seepage issues. These powerful devices work tirelessly to remove unwanted water and moisture, maintaining a dry and healthy environment for your living space. Imagine the relief of no longer having to worry about potential water damage, mold growth or other unpleasant surprises that follow a heavy rainstorm or a rapid snowmelt. The installation process is straightforward, and the investment in a sump pump quickly pays for itself by preventing costly repairs and maintaining the integrity and value of your property. Keep your basement or crawl space free from water woes by considering the addition of this essential equipment to your home.

Raise valuables off the ground — furniture, computers, artwork, etc.
Elevating your precious belongings from the ground can be a simple yet effective solution for safeguarding them from potential damage, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your living space. Consider the numerous advantages of raising your valuable furniture, electronics, and artwork. Not only are you protecting these items from unforeseen accidents, such as spills or flooding, but you are also promoting better airflow in your home by avoiding contact with dust and debris on the floor. Additionally, positioning your cherished artwork and other prized possessions at a higher placement can create a captivating focal point in your room, catching the attention of guests and creating an inviting atmosphere. Embrace this underrated approach to preserving and showcasing your valuables, and revel in the benefits it offers - aesthetically, functionally, and protectively.

Consider smart landscaping strategies that can divert water away from your home during storms
In the face of increasingly unpredictable storm patterns and the havoc they wreak on our homes, it's important to consider smart landscaping strategies that can help divert water away from your property when heavy rainfall strikes. By thoughtfully sculpting the terrain around your house, you can make the most of the earth's natural drainage systems to protect your home and foundation from damage. This may involve the clever use of swales or berms to skillfully redirect water and ensure that it doesn't pool too close to your home. Additionally, the strategic planting of rain gardens in low-lying areas can efficiently absorb excess water while simultaneously enhancing the beauty of your landscape. In the long run, these intelligent design approaches will not only bolster the safety and value of your property, but also contribute to the overall resilience of your local ecosystem in the face of extreme weather events.

When it comes to keeping your home safe from floodwaters, preparation is the best defense. Knowing the risks and understanding what to do in case of flooding can mean the difference between disaster and recovery. When it comes to preventing or recovering from a flood, there are many projects that can help protect your home such as installing sensors or detectors, installing a sump pump, raising valuables off the ground, and using smart landscaping strategies. However, should disaster strike, Green Restoration & Reconstruction will be here to help your home return to its pre-flood condition. Our specialists have years of experience restoring homes back to their former glory while also equipping them with the proper safety measures so they're better prepared for future floods. Contact us if you're looking for quality work at an affordable price that will get your home back on its feet after a flood disaster.

Water Damage - 04/01/2023
Planning A BR Remodel

Planning A Bathroom Remodel

The two best parts of a kitchen remodel are the planning stage, and the completion. If you plan well, the middle stage won't be so bad either. Use this guide to help you finalize your vision for your kitchen with a qualified contractor who can bring your vision to life.

Remodeling / Water Damage - 01/15/2022
Planning A Kitchen Remodel

Preparing for Mold Remediation

The two best parts of a kitchen remodel are the planning stage, and the completion. If you plan well, the middle stage won't be so bad either. Use this guide to help you finalize your vision for your kitchen with a qualified contractor who can bring your vision to life.

Remodeling / Water Damage - 12/15/2021
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How to Tell if There is Structural Damage from a Storm

When storms strike, they can do a lot of damage to your property. Storms have been known to cause significant structural damage from flooding and wind damage. Storms may also lead to fire from lightning strikes and electrical malfunctions, which can cause further problems for your home and family. If you notice signs of structural damage after a storm has passed, it is crucial that you take the problem seriously and call the team at Green Restoration & Reconstruction as soon as possible. Storms can break your home, but they do not have to destroy it.

The first thing to know about storm damage repairs is how to tell if there really is a problem at all. There are a few ways that storms can cause major issues for your home. Storm damage can cause flooding, whether it is from torrential rain or broken pipes, which may lead to water damage and mold if not dealt with quickly. Storms can also wreak havoc on your roofing system, leading to leaks and holes that could pose a hazard for your home. Storms can even cause electrical problems, such as short circuits and malfunctions that can lead to a fire. Storm damage may be a bit more obvious if there is a huge hole in your roof or a lightning bolt through your living room, but the earlier these problems are addressed, the better for everyone involved. Storms don't always show their face as obviously as tornadoes and hurricanes do, so it can be more difficult to detect storm damage on your property.

Signs of Structural Damage

The signs of storm damage are important to know. If you are unsure about whether or not your home has storm damage, there are a few things to look for that could indicate structural damage. Storm damage can cause cracks in walls, ceilings, and floors if it causes shifting of the foundation. Storms can also bring high winds that lead to siding damage on your exterior walls or shingles.

Signs your foundation has been compromised include:

  • Cracks in the floors and walls around doorframes, windows, or staircases.
  • Cracks in your foundation (horizontal cracks are the most dangerous)
  • Holes or cracks in walls or floors.
  • Your home is shifting from its originMissing shingles

Signs your roof has been compromised include:

  • Missing shingles
  • Blistering, softening, or other signs of rotting wood.
  • A shift in the pitch of your roof.
  • Water leakage inside your home near the chimney and vents.

Signs your Drainage System has been compromised include:

  • Water coming up through your basement floor
  • Water coming in through the walls
  • Leaks inside your home.

The good news about storm damage is that it can be fixed. Storm damage may have caused structural issues, but it does not have to affect the integrity of your home. Storms are just one of the things that Green Restoration & Reconstruction excel at handling. We understand how important your family is to you, and we know that any kind of damage to your home can cause a lot of extra stress. Storm damage may not always be obvious, but the earlier you catch it, the easier it will be to fix.

If you notice any signs of storm damage on your property, contact Green Restoration & Reconstruction as soon as possible. Storms don't have to destroy your home if they're caught early enough. If left unaddressed, storm damage can cause even more problems for you and your family. Storms may bring rain, but we'll bring the sunshine back to your home.

Storm damage is a stressful experience, and we understand that it can bring up a lot of questions about your home. If you notice storm damage or have already been informed by your insurance company that there may be storm damage, reach out to Green Restoration & Reconstruction as soon as possible. Our team will work with your insurance company to get the repairs you need and to restore your home to pre-loss conditions.

Remodeling / Water Damage / Wind Damage - 08/15/2021
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How to Prepare for Mold Remediation

Here at Green Restoration, we come in after the remediation crew has cleared out the problem and work with your insurance company to make your space look new. We can put you in touch with the best remediation crews in the area. But before facing a mold remediation project, consider the following.

How Does Mold Remediation Work?

Contrary to what the internet might have you believe, mold removal is very rarely a DIY project. Mold can be hidden behind sheetrock, under flooring, inside walls, and in crawl spaces. It is usually hidden until it makes itself known as a visible spot (or spots) on the wall or ceiling. Mold removal should always be left to the pros.
Most professionals who do mold remediation carry commercial-grade air movers and air scrubbers and use HEPA vacuums.  They will strategically place fans to move around the air in your space as well as fogging machines (foggers look like a water hose with a machine attached) that emit antimicrobial agents into the problem area.

The goal is to get the mold spores active and airborne so that they can be removed by the machines. Depending on how bad the problem is, mold remediation may include the removal of sheetrock, flooring, ceiling tiles, or even cabinetry.

How to Prepare for Mold Remediation

  1. Do not touch it!
    As is the case with most types of remediation, the first order of business is to leave everything alone. Anything you've touched may have to be discarded so wear gloves and don't forget your respirator mask. Unless instructed otherwise by the remediation crew, do not enter the area until after they have completed the project. Moving items out of the area could spread the mold further.
  2. Don't turn on fans.
    It may seem logical to use a fan to air out a moldy space, to dry the water causing the problem. However, fans - when not used by qualified remediation specialists, are more likely to spread the mold spores throughout the house. (I've seen one situation where a mattress had gotten wet in one room causing mold in that space. The homeowner used a fan to air out the room and spread the mold throughout the entire house in just two days.)
  3. Wait for the green light.
    Remediation is a dirty job, but somebody's got to do it. So let them do their work and give the area at least 24 hours before you return to assess the damage and clean up any residual mold or mildew.
  4. Call Green Restoration & Reconstruction to Rebuild Your Space.
    Time For Restoration & Reconstruction

The goal of restoration construction is to clean and restore your home to its pre-loss condition. Green Restoration & Reconstruction will work with your insurance adjuster to determine what items can be saved, restored, and/or replaced. The first step in any loss recovery process is mitigation which includes extraction, removal of damaged materials, and drying the structure as quickly as possible. Our team has recovered from hundreds of losses so we have seen it all when it comes to dealing with flooded homes and businesses.

We have the experience needed to handle everything from full-scale commercial properties down to smaller residential jobs.

Our team specializes in restorative construction, especially following water, fire, or storm-related disaster. We know how to prevent additional problems. We work with your insurance company every step of the way, filling out all required paperwork in a timely manner, and we move quickly to get your life back to normal.

Our assistance helps you to expedite the claims process and get the restoration results you need as fast as possible.

Remodeling / Water Damage - 07/15/2021
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In-Home Leaks

Life can be funny sometimes and it will usually be at the worst possible time. The washing machine does a jig spewing water and suds everywhere. Not everything that happens to your home, happens as a result of weather. Water seepage can occur wherever there is a container to hold it and a leak, either the pipes or the water heater or a leak in the kitchen faucet goes unnoticed until the subflooring and flooring is affected. When it happens in the kitchen, it often means repairing not just the leak itself, but everything that leak affected.

Leaky faucets can also end up causing damage to your foundation, walls, and floors. It’s not so much the leak itself that can be hazardous to you and your family’s health, but the mold, mildew, and material damage that leak has caused. These problems can develop unseen in the structure and foundations of your home and might only be discovered after it has caused costly damages.

Stagnant water can cause allow unwanted insects and bacteria to breed around your home or office. These potential problems can all be avoided by getting an experienced professional to look at your leaking taps or pipes when you first notice them.

An unchecked water leak can:

  • Lead to deteriorated caulk and grout, which can result in water leaking through and damaging floorboards and ceilings throughout your home.
  • Can cause costly structural damage to your home if left unchecked.
  • Can affect subflooring as well. Will easily add ten percent to your water bill.

After assessing the damages, you want to talk to a company that knows how to make your home whole. You want a company that knows how to talk to your insurance company about reconstruction services as well as a company that will listen to YOU for how you want the remodel to go. Green Restoration and Reconstruction is the company for you.  They have years of experience in remodeling and expertise in dealing with the parameters of what is your insurance and staying within budget.

Being prepared for the worst is being proactive against it. Having the right insurance coverage and the right team to assist in making things right again is peace of mind worth having.  Green Reconstruction and Reconstruction is the right company for your family to make the worst of times better.

Water Damage - 03/15/2021
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Other Winter Hazards to Consider

Winter in the greater New Jersey area, brings with it special circumstances when it comes to the vulnerabilities of your home, from flashing on your chimney to the frames of your doors.

When temperatures drop below freezing, moisture in the soil beneath a home freezes and expand. This expansion causes lateral pressure to the foundation above it and causes an upheaval movement. This movement can cause cracks in the walls, floors, and ceilings, which can lead to further damage.

Winter Hazards to Consider:

The windows and doorways which keep winter outside your door, have their own set of issues:

  • Fluctuations in winter temperature cause caulk to pull away from windows, which in turn creates drafts that let warm air out and cold air in.
  • Your doors when exposed to wintry conditions after a harsh winter often need to be shimmed.
  • The frames around your doors can grow soft and damp, which can lead to wood rot and a welcome mat to termites in the spring.  If the damage to the frame is extensive consider replacing the entire door frame.
broken-window

The chimney can present particular issues, among them:

  • The bricks of your chimney expand and contract during daily winter temperature fluctuations, this can lead to displaced bricks.
  • Flashing, the metal sheet where the chimney and roof meet does not always adhere to the roof properly which means water and ice can leak into it and then your home.
  • The displaced bricks of your chimney can lead to a pest problem, like mice, rats, and other outside vermin will always seek warmth, shelter, and food.  And rodents will chew wires as well as insulation.
ice-damage-chimney

Though most decks are built to withstand the elements if your deck is not weather coated correctly:

  • Winter moisture is a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
  • Moisture leaching can cause discoloration of your deck.
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After assessing the damages, you want to talk to a company that knows how to make your home whole. You want a company that knows how to talk to your insurance company about reconstruction services as well as a company that will listen to YOU for how you want the remodel to go. Green Restoration and Reconstruction is the company for you. They have years of experience in remodeling and expertise in dealing with the parameters of what is your insurance and staying within budget.

Being prepared for the worst is being proactive against it. Having the right insurance coverage and the right team to assist in making things right again is peace of mind worth having.  Green Reconstruction and Remodeling is the right company for your family to make the worst of times better.

Remodeling / Water Damage - 01/15/2021
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Ice Hazards

Ice brings with it a different set of issues, some very hazardous to your home. As winter comes to be upon us, there will be more weather reports concerning snow. And depending on temperature, wrapped into snowstorms there are concerns for sleet, freezing rain or ice. When you can hear the snow, it is no longer snow. While sleet is made up of pellets that will bounce off a surface, freezing rain will form a solid sheet of ice, making it the more dangerous of the two.

Effects of ice on your home:

  • Yes, icicles look pretty dangling from your home. The weight of these ice formations can rip the gutters off your house! As well as damage your shingles.  So, remember to clear off the icicles and check your shingles after a storm.
  • Ice can freeze and melt and refreeze several times during the cold weather, depending on temperature and how warm your roof gets.  This can damage your drywall and plaster, as well as seepage into your attic causing water-stained ceilings.
  • Ice dams occur when your gutters get overwhelmed with ice.  An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms at the edge of a roof and prevents melting snow from draining. The water that backs up behind the dam can leak into a home and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation, and other areas.
  • Ice forming on your roof can cause serious problems.   A roof collapse can happen when a roof cannot bear the weight of ice and snow.
  • The bricks of the chimney expand and contract during daily winter temperature fluctuations. And water can get underneath the chimney flashing.   Water gets behind the mortar and flashing causing it to freeze, which leads it to fail after the inevitable thaw.
icey-house

The roof is not the only cause for concern regarding ice hazard issues. Ice can damage your foundation due to the frost heave cycle: when the ground freezes and then ultimately melts again. The frost heave cycle can result in the soil shifting and moving under your home’s concrete foundation, causing cracks and other damage. While trees are great for shade in the summer, ice covered limbs can easily prove a hazard not only to power lines but to possible damage if a large limb falls on your home or siding.

After assessing the damages, you want to talk to a company that knows how to make your home whole. You want a company that knows how to talk to your insurance company about reconstruction services as well as a company that will listen to YOU for how you want the remodel to go. Green Restoration and Reconstruction is the company for you.  They have years of experience in remodeling and expertise in dealing with the parameters of what is your insurance and staying within budget.

Being prepared for the worst is being proactive against it. Having the right insurance coverage and the right team to assist in making things right again is peace of mind worth having.  Green Reconstruction and Remodeling is the right company for your family to make the worst of times better.

Remodeling / Water Damage - 12/15/2020
water-damage-blog

Water Damage in Your Home

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When the mistiness of spring leads into a soggy summer sliding into a sopping fall, where rivers rise, crest and spill over the banksand small creeks swallow land and trees, water damage can literally enter every crevice of your home. One of the several problems with water is that even when it ‘stops’ moving; it can still cause significant damage simply by pooling; leading to the formation of both mildew and mold. Wood that has been compromised being submerged in water may be susceptible to deterioration as well as insect infestation.

Water damage, increases the risk of fire as well as structural damage:

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  • Attempts to use electrical appliances that have been exposed to water.
  • Improper generator use or maintenance.
  • Damage to above-ground gas lines.
  • The pressure on the foundation walls increases and can result in cracks and leaks that allow water to penetrate the foundation.

What you do not want to do is add issues or stress to an already upsetting situation.

As with any crisis contact your insurance company as soon as possible; as well as calling for remediation services, which will handle the clean out and cleanup the damage. This is important not only for assessing damages, but also for peace of mind for you and your family.

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You want a company that knows how to talk to your insurance company about reconstruction services as well as a company that will listen to YOU for how you want the remodel to go. Green Restoration and Reconstruction is the company for you. They have years of experience in remodeling and expertise in dealing with the parameters of what is your insurance and staying within budget.

Being prepared for the worst is the right protection against it. Having the right insurance coverage and the right team to assist in making things right again is a peace of mind worth having. Green Reconstruction and Remodeling is the right company for your family to make the worst of times better.

Water Damage - 09/15/2020

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