Paul Davis Blog and Company News

In Crisis and Recovery, We Stand With Canadian Communities

Basement flooded? Learn what to do first and how Paul Davis helps with emergency response and full restoration.

Spring and summer storms in Canada can be unpredictable and destructive. From high winds to heavy rain and hail, they pose serious risks to your property. Learn the most common types of storm damage, how to protect your home before disaster strikes, and what to do if the worst happens. The Power of Spring and Summer Storms in Canada Canadian springs and summers can bring more than just blooming flowers and sunny afternoons—they often arrive hand-in-hand with severe weather. Thunderstorms, hail, high winds, and even localized flooding can happen quickly and without much warning. These storms don’t just interrupt your day—they can cause costly and even dangerous damage to your home or business. Common Types of Storm Damage Here are some of the most frequent types of property damage caused by spring and summer storms: Wind Damage. Strong gusts can tear shingles from your roof, blow down fences, and uproot trees, sometimes causing structural damage or downed power lines. Water and Flood Damage. Heavy rain can overwhelm gutters, drains, and sump pumps—leading to basement flooding, roof leaks, and mould growth if not dealt with quickly. Hail Damage. Large hail can crack siding, shatter windows, and dent vehicles. Roofs are particularly vulnerable, especially older shingles. Lightning Strikes. Though less common, lightning can cause fires, damage electrical systems, or destroy electronics within the home. T o rnadoes or Microbursts. While rare, these powerful events can tear off roofs, break windows, and flatten trees with little notice. 5 Tips to Prepare and Protect Your Property Inspect and Maintain Your Roof. Replace damaged or missing shingles and ensure your roof is in good condition. Consider impact-resistant materials if you live in a storm-prone area. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts. Remove leaves and debris regularly to allow proper drainage and reduce the risk of water backing up into your home. Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items. Cut back overhanging branches and secure patio furniture, garbage bins, and anything else that could become airborne. Install a Sump Pump with Backup Power. A sump pump can prevent basement flooding—but only if it works during power outages. A battery backup is a smart investment. Check Your Insurance Coverage Annually. Ensure your policy covers common storm-related events, including flood and wind damage. Make note of any exclusions or deductibles. Dealing With Your Insurance Provider: Best Practices If you experience storm damage, it’s crucial to act quickly and follow the right steps to ensure a smooth claims process: Document Everything. Take photos and videos of the damage before starting cleanup or repairs. This provides crucial evidence for your claim. Keep All Receipts. Whether it's for temporary lodging, emergency services, or materials—keep a record of every storm-related expense. Report the Damage ASAP. Contact your insurance provider immediately. Delays can impact your coverage or slow down your claim. Don’t Throw Away Damaged Items. Unless safety is an issue, wait until an adjuster has assessed the damage before disposing of anything. Work with Restoration Professionals. Insurance companies often prefer to work with certified, experienced restoration teams—like Paul Davis Restoration—who follow industry standards and communicate directly with adjusters. Call Paul Davis Restoration – When Things Go Wrong, We Do What’s Right When disaster strikes, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Paul Davis Restoration is available 24/7 to respond to storm damage across Canada. From emergency board-ups and water extraction to full property restoration, our certified teams are ready to help you recover—quickly, safely, and with care. Final Thought Canadian storms might be unpredictable—but your recovery doesn’t have to be. Prepare your property, know your insurance rights, and trust the pros who get it right the first time. Paul Davis Restoration is here when you need us most.

Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense across rural and forested areas in Canada. From structural loss to smoke and fire retardant residue, the damage can be significant. Learn how to protect your home with prevention strategies like fire retardant spray, and discover what to do if you’re affected. When things go wrong, We do what’s right. Wildfire Risks Are Increasing in Canada As wildfires become more frequent across Canada, especially during the dry summer months, rural and forested communities are at higher risk than ever before. Whether caused by lightning, drought, or human activity, wildfires can devastate homes, properties, and natural landscapes in minutes. Preparation is critical—not just for your safety, but for your ability to recover quickly. Common Types of Wildfire Damage Here’s what homeowners and property managers commonly face when a wildfire strikes: Structural Fire Damage. Direct exposure to flames can destroy or compromise homes, garages, fences, and more. Smoke and Soot Damage. Even if the flames don’t reach your property, smoke and soot can cause hidden damage throughout your home, affecting air quality, fabrics, electronics, and HVAC systems. Heat Warping and Melting. The intense heat from nearby fires can melt vinyl siding, crack windows, and blister paint—even without direct flame contact. Water and Fire Retardant Damage. Firefighting efforts often involve large volumes of water or fire retardant sprays. While these methods are critical for saving your property, they can leave behind residue that stains surfaces, clogs gutters, and may require professional cleanup. Environmental Contamination. Fires can damage soil, septic systems, and water supplies, especially in rural properties with wells or tanks. 5 Tips to Prepare and Protect Your Property Create a Defensible Space Around Your Home. Remove dead vegetation, firewood, and flammable materials at least 10 metres from your structure. Maintain trimmed grass, shrubs, and overhanging branches. Apply Fire Retardant Spray to Vulnerable Areas. Fire retardant sprays are an effective tool for reducing flammability on fences, decks, roofing, and exterior walls. These products add a layer of protection—but they must be professionally applied and eventually cleaned after the risk has passed. Upgrade to Fire-Resistant Materials. Choose Class A fire-rated roofing, tempered glass windows, and non-combustible siding to reduce ignition points. Install Ember Guards and Roof Vent Protection. Flying embers are a major ignition risk. Install mesh ember guards over attic and crawlspace vents, and regularly inspect your roof and gutters for debris. Prepare an Emergency Plan and Evacuation Kit. Keep essential documents, medications, and supplies in a grab-and-go bag. Include copies of insurance paperwork and digital backups of important files. Best Practices When Dealing with Your Insurance Provider If wildfire damage occurs, acting quickly and following these best practices can make a major difference in your claim outcome: Call Your Insurance Provider Right Away. Notify them as soon as it is safe to do so. Ask what documentation they require and if emergency accommodations are covered. Take Clear, Detailed Photos and Videos. Capture all visible damage, both inside and outside the structure. Include smoke and residue impacts, even if there is no obvious structural loss. Document Damaged Contents. Make an itemized list of furniture, electronics, clothing, and other possessions that were affected. Track Temporary Expenses. Save receipts for hotels, meals, and other displacement costs—they’re often reimbursable. Request Paul Davis Restoration by Name. Insurance providers often prefer to work with trusted, certified restoration experts like Paul Davis , who follow IICRC standards and communicate directly with adjusters. Call Paul Davis Restoration – When Things Go Wrong, We Do What’s Right Whether you’re dealing with structural fire damage, smoke infiltration, or leftover fire retardant residue, Paul Davis Restoration has the expertise and equipment to handle it all. Our certified teams are trained not only in fire and smoke cleanup but also in removing fire retardant spray residue safely and thoroughly—restoring your home to a clean, livable state. Final Thought Wildfires are unpredictable—but your response doesn’t have to be. Invest in proven prevention like fire retardant spray, know your evacuation plan, and trust the professionals who are ready when disaster strikes. Paul Davis Restoration—when things go wrong, we do what’s right.

Lingering smoke odours can damage your health and your belongings. Paul Davis uses proven science to remove them for good.

Not all water stains are simple leaks. Learn how to spot hidden damage early and when to call Paul Davis for help.

Asbestos may still be present in older buildings. Learn where it hides, why it’s harmful, and when to call Paul Davis.

Your home can’t be disaster-proof—but it can be disaster-resistant. Follow these 6 steps to protect what matters most.

Mould exposure can cause serious health issues—especially indoors. Learn the signs, risks, and why expert remediation from Paul Davis matters.