Author: Earl Baldwin

Natalie Wood took Hollywood by storm and had a larger-than-life offscreen life. In November of 1981, she was found dead in the Pacific Ocean. Her body was floating a mile from her yacht Splendour, and her rubber dinghy was beached nearby.

Police reopened the case in 2011, and now detective Ralph Hernandez says that the numerous bruises found on her body make it look like an assault. He also notes that her flannel nightgown was unzipped. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Natalie Wood Death.

In November of 1981, Natalie Wood, then 40 years old, died off the coast of California’s Catalina Island. The actress was a major Hollywood star who had enjoyed great success as both a child actor and an adult leading lady. She starred in many classic films, including Miracle on 34th Street and West Side Story.

When she died, it was ruled an accident. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner found that the actress had been drinking and that she had slipped overboard when she was trying to board her dinghy. However, there were some inconsistencies with this theory. For example, the coroner’s report showed fresh scrapes and bruises on her body that did not appear to have been caused by a fall. Additionally, her blood alcohol level was above the legal limit at the time of her death.

Her husband at the time, Robert Wagner, and her Brainstorm co-star Christopher Walken were on a yacht together when she went overboard. Wagner has never been charged with any crime related to Wood’s death, but he has been called a person of interest by police several times over the years.

What happened that night has never been fully understood. According to one account, after dinner at Doug’s Harbor Reef on Catalina, Wagner and Walken got into a heated argument over politics. Afterward, they went back to the yacht and left Wood alone in the dinghy while they continued to drink. Ten to 15 minutes passed before Wagner realized that his wife was not on board the Splendour, so he sent the crew to search for her.

The search for Wood was extensive. Helicopters crisscrossed the ocean, while Harbor Patrol boats and private yachts searched the rolling waves for the actress. Despite the intense effort, it took until 7:30 the next morning before the boat’s crew discovered her floating face down in the water.

In the documentary, Natasha Gregson Wagner confronts her father on-camera about speculation that he was involved in her mother’s death. He denies the allegations and stresses that he loved her. He also mentions that he believes that her death was an accident, but it is clear that his daughter does not agree with him.

How She Died

Everyone at the time agreed Wood’s death, at the height of her fame and movie-star career, was shocking and tragic. However, for decades, few knew the details of what happened that fateful Thanksgiving weekend.

On November 28, 1981, Natalie Wood, 43, and her husband, actor Robert Wagner, took a boat out for a night of sailing around Santa Catalina Island. They invited fellow actor Christopher Walken to join them. The trip turned deadly when it appears that Wood fell off the yacht — the 60-foot Splendour — possibly while trying to retie a dinghy that had been banging against her side, according to the initial investigation. Her body was found floating about a mile away from the yacht, and her dinghy was beached nearby.

Investigators ruled her death an accident, though they could not determine what caused her to fall off the boat or why she entered the water. They did not find any evidence of head trauma or facial bruising, which would have pointed to an assault. They also determined that her stomach contained 500 cc of partially digested food material, suggesting she had been eating for hours before entering the water.

Then in 2011, Dennis Davern, who was the skipper of the Splendour when Wood’s body was discovered, went on the NBC Today show to talk about what really happened that night. Davern claimed that he had seen a fight between Wood and Wagner and that Wagner prevented him from calling in a search and rescue mission when the actress disappeared.

The original investigation did not find evidence of a crime and ruled her death an accident, but the Los Angeles County chief medical examiner released a 10-page addendum in 2013 that raised questions about every major finding of the first report. The addendum stated that the bruises on Wood’s body, including some fresh superficial ones on her arms and legs, were not consistent with injuries sustained from falling into the water. The location of the bruises, their multiplicity, and the lack of head trauma and facial bruising all pointed to their having been inflicted prior to her entry into the water.

What We Know Now

In the decades since Natalie Wood’s death, many theories have swirled around her unexplained drowning. But the latest development in the case has rekindled interest in the mysterious circumstances surrounding her final days.

In 2018, Wood’s daughter Natasha Gregson Wagner confronted her ex-husband Robert Wagner on-camera about speculation that he had something to do with her mother’s untimely passing, revealing that she does not believe he had anything to do with her mother’s death in any way. However, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has now officially named Wagner a person of interest in the case.

Wood, then 43, was on her family yacht Splendour off the coast of Santa Catalina Island, California, in November 1981 when she disappeared one night. Her body was discovered the next morning, floating in the water in her flannel nightgown and red down jacket. The cause of her death was initially ruled an accident, but in 2012, it was changed to suspicious due to the fact that her body had fresh bruises that were not noted on her initial autopsy.

Police also had a difficult time determining how she got into the water. The only other people aboard the boat with her were the captain, Dennis Davern, and her actor friend Christopher Walken. At the time, he was working with her on the film Brainstorm. They had all enjoyed a champagne-filled dinner at Doug’s Harbor Reef in Catalina and then re-boarded the boat. The manager of the restaurant later said that all four were extremely intoxicated and that he was concerned that they would not be able to make it back to the yacht in their dinghy.

There is little doubt that Davern lied about what happened to police. He claimed that he heard Wood and Wagner fighting in the cabin before she went overboard, which doesn’t jibe with the original account given by the other two men on board. In addition, he has since made multiple statements to the media that don’t jibe with what he told police. This may have been the reason that LASD reopened the case in 2011 and named him a person of interest.

Conclusions

For decades, Natalie Wood’s mysterious death was ruled a tragic accident. But now, more than 30 years after her death, a yacht captain has admitted he lied to investigators. In a shocking interview on national TV, Dennis Davern, who skippered the yacht on which Wood was found dead, said he told investigators that Wood’s husband at the time, Robert Wagner, killed her.

The story began the Thanksgiving weekend of 1981. Wood, then 57, was on the yacht Splendour with her husband and Christopher Walken, her costar in her final film, Brainstorm. She and her husband had invited a few people to join them, but none of them showed up. Instead, the couple was joined by Walken and the boat’s captain, who had become a family friend of Wood’s.

According to the boat’s captain, Wagner and Wood had argued heatedly shortly before her death. He claims that he overheard them discussing their rocky marriage, and that she was jealous of Wagner’s relationship with her Hart to Hart co-star, Stefanie Powers. He also alleged that Wood had a phobia of water due to a prophecy she received from a fortune teller when she was young.

Despite the rumors and inconsistencies in witness statements, investigators did not find evidence that her fall was anything other than an accident. The location of the bruises, their multiplicity, and the lack of head trauma all pointed to her falling or being pushed into the water. The coroner initially ruled her death an accidental drowning.

But that ruling was overturned in 2011. The LA County Sheriff’s department re-opened the investigation, and Wagner—now 90 years old—was named as a person of interest. But the reopening ended with no new information, and the case was closed again. Several questions remain, however, including what exactly Wood was trying to do when she fell into the water and why her account of events changed so often over the years. This remains one of Hollywood’s enduring mysteries. Until more answers are discovered, the mystery of Natalie Wood’s death will continue to linger. But, until then, we will remember the actress who left behind a lasting legacy in movies like West Side Story, Splendor in the Grass, and Rebel Without a Cause.

Things to Consider When Buying a Home With a History of Foundation Repair

March 18, 2024

Earl Baldwin

Contractor Services No Comments

If you’re thinking about buying a home with a history of foundation repair, there are some important things to consider. A structural engineer can give you a complete report and advise you about your options.

Foundation repair involves installing vertical supports under your house to lift it if it’s settled or sinking. It’s also called foundation raising and stabilization. Visit https://www.sugarlandfoundationrepair.com/ to learn more.

The cost of foundation repair varies widely because there are many different factors that influence the cost of a job. These factors include the type and severity of damage, the method used to fix it, the foundation type, the soil conditions surrounding the house, and the home size. The costs of labor and materials are also a factor.

Some foundation issues may require additional work, such as basement waterproofing or regrading the soil. In addition, the water and sewer lines must be tested to find any underground leaks. These additional tasks can add up to a considerable sum.

If you have small cracks in your foundation that don’t extend past the exterior of your home, you can usually take care of them with sealants and epoxy injection. These can be relatively inexpensive, but the cost will increase significantly if you have extensive damage or widespread moisture problems.

Other common methods for repairing damaged foundations include mudjacking and helical piers. Mudjacking is a less expensive approach that involves pumping a grout mixture beneath the concrete foundation. This lifts the foundation and stabilizes it. It’s not a permanent solution, though, and it can cause further settlement over time.

Steel piers are another popular option for stabilizing a damaged foundation. They are made from galvanized steel and have helical threaded sections that allow them to be screwed into the ground. They are effective for a wide range of foundation sizes and weights.

Using hydraulic jacks to lift the foundation is another way to correct damage. This process can be costly, but it’s a more permanent solution than other methods. Helical piers can also be installed in difficult-to-reach areas that aren’t accessible with hydraulic jacks.

In some cases, a structural report will be necessary to determine the best course of action for your home’s foundation. These can range in price from $300 to $1,000. Hiring an unbiased professional to document the damage and suggest solutions can prevent you from overpaying for repairs.

It’s important to keep in mind that even if you can’t afford to make all the required repairs at once, it’s still a good idea to contact a contractor and have them inspect your foundation regularly. This can help you spot potential issues before they become too severe, saving you money in the long run.

Time

Foundation repairs require a large amount of time to complete and the landscape around the home is often disturbed. The location of trees, bushes, and other landscaping, the amount of water on the property, construction issues, and plumbing problems can all affect how long the work takes to complete. On average, a full repair can take anywhere from two to three days.

It’s important to remember that the longer a problem is ignored, the worse it becomes and the more expensive it will be. That’s why repairing foundation cracks as soon as they occur is critical. While minor cracks in the foundation aren’t usually a sign of severe damage, they should still be repaired immediately to ensure that they don’t get worse.

The type of soil the house is built on can also affect how fast the foundation settles. Foundations built on expansive clay soil may experience more extensive damage than those that are constructed on better-draining soil. Additionally, the groundwater table below a house can shift as it rises or falls, which can cause significant upheaval of the foundation.

There are a number of factors that influence the longevity of a foundation repair, including the materials used in the construction, the amount of pressure on the foundation, and the environmental conditions. In general, the best and longest-lasting repairs are those that use concrete. In addition, a good quality contractor will provide a thorough inspection and recommend any improvements to the lot, such as root barriers, drainage plans, and proper irrigation to minimize the impact of moisture on the foundation.

Some foundation repair methods are more time-consuming than others, and it is important to consider the total cost of the project as well as your own timeline when hiring a foundation company. If the issue is complicated, it could take several weeks or even months to complete the repair, depending on the method chosen.

If you’re looking for a quick and affordable solution, Sure Safe offers a patented VR-1 foundation system that can cut repair times by up to 70%. Learn more about how our unique approach can save you money and time by clicking here.

Expertise

The foundation repair industry is booming due to an increased demand for professional services. This is because people are more aware of the importance of keeping a building’s structural integrity intact. In addition, they are becoming more proactive in identifying and addressing potential issues before they become severe. This has led to a greater emphasis on preventive maintenance, which reduces costs and minimizes risks.

The process of repairing foundations can be complex and time-consuming. It requires extensive experience and a thorough understanding of the various factors that affect foundations. These factors include soil composition, moisture content, and other environmental conditions. These factors can lead to shifting, cracking, and other damage to foundations. This is why it’s important to find a reputable contractor with extensive experience in the field.

A good contractor will begin the repair process by preparing the area. This includes getting rid of any plants that are in the way and disconnecting any underground utilities. Then, they will use the appropriate methods to stabilize the foundation and restore its functionality. This may involve digging around the foundation and using piers or pilings. They may also use epoxy crack injection to seal the cracks and other problems in the concrete.

There are many signs of foundation movement that can be misleading, but there are a few early warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored. These include uneven floors, doors and windows that don’t open or close properly, and gaps between walls and floor. These signs are a sign that the foundation is shifting or cracking and needs to be repaired.

Depending on the severity of the problem, the repair process can take hours or days. A reputable contractor will have a crew of experienced professionals who can work efficiently to complete the project in a short period of time. They will also have access to specialized equipment and tools that can speed up the repair process.

There are a number of technologies that have revolutionized the foundation repair industry. One of the most significant is ground penetrating radar (GPR). This technology allows professionals to see the condition of the soil beneath a building without damaging it. This information helps them determine the most effective solution for each individual foundation. It can also help them avoid costly repairs by identifying areas prone to heaving and shifting. Another innovative technology is hydraulics, which allow contractors to slowly and carefully lift foundations. This provides a level of control that is unmatched by traditional repair techniques.

Warranty

A foundation repair warranty is something that most homeowners look forward to having. It is a way to know that they have someone to call and work with should problems come up after the repairs are complete. The trouble is, most people don’t take the time to read or fully understand the warranties they are being offered. That is one of the biggest mistakes they can make.

Many companies will offer a lifetime warranty for their work. But, when you actually read the fine print, you may find that the warranties are very different than what is advertised. For example, you may find that some of the exclusions are so broad as to be virtually useless. These can include anything from a plumbing test, to major structural alterations, or even building a pool on your property.

Also, you will usually find that some of the warranties will only cover the foundation and not other parts of the home. You will also find that some of the exclusions will be there to protect the contractor from claims of shoddy work. For instance, a foundation repair contractor may say that their warranty does not cover piers that fail due to soil movement. They will then try to cite state laws and foundation repair associations that make this perfectly legal.

Another thing that can void a warranty is failure to maintain the area around your home. This is especially important if your foundation problems are caused by uneven moisture levels in the soil. You will have to work with a company that understands this and will help you to address drainage issues, landscaping concerns and other things that can cause future damage.

Finally, you will also need to be aware that changes in home ownership can void a warranty. You will need to contact the foundation repair company within a specified time frame, typically 30 days, if you want to transfer the policy to a new homeowner. There may be a small fee that is required to initiate the transfer. So, before you decide on a foundation repair company, make sure that you fully understand their warranty policies.

Water Restoration – Why It’s Important to Choose IICRC-Certified Experts

March 13, 2024

Earl Baldwin

Disaster Restoration No Comments

Water Restoration Los Angeles is returning your home to a safe and livable condition after a disaster. The process involves removing standing water, drying the property using dehumidifiers and air movers, and sanitizing any remaining bacteria or bad odors.

This will include repairing any areas affected by the leak and eliminating any mold or mildew that has already appeared. It is crucial to start this process as quickly as possible.

If you’re dealing with a property damage emergency, you want to know that the professionals who are responding are qualified and experienced. You want to be sure that they’re following industry best practices and using advanced equipment and techniques to restore your home or business. That’s why it’s important to choose IICRC-Certified experts.

IICRC is a non-profit organization that sets the standards for inspection, cleaning and restoration. Their certification programs require technicians to complete extensive training and pass a rigorous exam. They also have to attend continuing education classes to maintain their credentials.

The IICRC’s protocols and methodologies are based on scientific research, and they’re accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). That means that you can trust their work to be consistent and effective.

Many insurance companies recognize and prefer IICRC-certified professionals for restoration projects. This may help expedite the claims process and ensure that your restoration is completed according to insurance requirements.

Professionals who earn their IICRC certification have a solid understanding of the science behind restoration work, and they’re committed to using best practices and advanced technology to restore homes and businesses. They’re dedicated to helping their customers feel confident in their services, and they’re committed to delivering quality results every time.

Whether you’re new to the restoration industry or an established veteran, IICRC certification is well worth your investment. IICRC certification gives you the knowledge and skills to perform restoration work in a variety of environments, in accordance with globally recognized standards. It’s also an excellent way to differentiate yourself from your competition.

The IICRC offers a number of courses that cover the major categories of restoration work, such as water damage, fire and smoke, mold and asbestos. PCCS is an IICRC training center and can provide you with the expert instruction, hands-on experience and state-of-the-art facilities needed to prepare you for the IICRC exam. WRT and ASD are the two most popular classes, but we also offer a combined WRT/ASD class that can be completed in less than three days. The IICRC certification is good for four years, and you’ll need to pay an annual renewal fee and earn 14 Continuing Education Credits each year to maintain your certification.

Removing Standing Water

Standing water isn’t just an eyesore; it poses a health hazard for homeowners and their family members. In a matter of hours, bacteria and pathogens can grow in the water and cause severe respiratory illnesses. This is why a home must be inspected and the water extracted as quickly as possible after a flood or other problem.

Standing water usually causes serious damage to a home, especially the foundation. The water seeps into cracks in the foundation and creates pressure on it. This can cause the foundation to shift, leading to a cracked and sinking home.

A water restoration company will remove the standing water with commercial-grade water extractors and pumping equipment. They will also use air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the area. Drying can be a lengthy process, depending on how much moisture is in the structure of the building and how long it was exposed to the water. In some cases, building materials such as drywall down to the studs, carpeting, and carpet padding may need to be removed and replaced.

Another way to prevent the accumulation of water is to clean gutter downspouts, which can be clogged by leaves and other debris. The downspouts should extend at least 4 feet away from the home to prevent excess water pooling around the foundation. A french drain system can also be installed to redirect the flow of water away from a home.

It’s a good idea to invest in a sump pump for your home, especially if you live in an area that gets a lot of rain. A sump pump can soak up the extra water from a basement or crawl space, and it’s activated when the water reaches a preset level. This can be a useful tool in dealing with flooding from heavy rain or even snowmelt. These pumps can be installed in your yard or in a pit under your crawl space. They can be activated by a float activator or a pressure sensor. In addition to removing the extra water, the pump can also be used to prevent soil erosion and washouts from flooding a home’s driveway or sidewalk.

Preventing Mold Growth

Molds are natural organisms that play an important role in the environment by helping to break down organic material. They reproduce through tiny spores that are invisible to the naked eye and float in outdoor and indoor air. When these spores land on a damp surface, they can begin to grow. Although some molds are beneficial, others can cause health problems. Molds and mildew can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and may exacerbate respiratory conditions. They also leave musty odors and discolor fabrics, wallpaper, and leather. They can even rot wood and cause structural damage.

If you are not dealing with significant water damage, preventative measures can help keep mold away. Check frequently for areas that collect moisture, such as refrigerators, water tanks, windows, crawl spaces, and household plants. These areas should be properly ventilated, and any leaks or condensation should be fixed immediately.

The easiest way to prevent molds from growing is by eliminating the source of moisture. Keep a close eye on your home’s humidity level and make sure to vent your appliances that produce moisture, such as clothing dryers and stoves, to the outside. Keeping humidity levels below 50 percent will also help to prevent molds from growing.

It is also a good idea to use dehumidifiers or air conditioning in humid climates, and to run them periodically. Make sure to clean and replace the filter regularly to keep them operating at their best.

Once you have removed the excess moisture, you can begin restoring the damaged areas to their pre-damaged condition. Depending on the extent of the damage, this may involve replacing flooring and wall coverings, as well as structural elements like support beams and subflooring. This is the longest part of the restoration process, and can sometimes take weeks to complete.

It is a good idea to hire an IICRC-certified company for restoration and mold removal services, as they will be able to handle both tasks with ease. They will follow strict protocols and use the best technology available to ensure that your property is safe and healthy.

Getting a Free Quote

If you are a homeowner dealing with water damage, you will probably have to file an insurance claim. This will help you get your belongings back and also reduce repair costs. But you should make sure that the company you hire is reputable. You can find out by asking for references from previous clients or reading reviews.

When you contact a restoration company, they will need to inspect your property before providing you with an estimate. This will determine the cost of the work and the time it will take to complete the project. The type and class of the water damage will also impact the price. For instance, black water is considered the most serious and requires a much longer drying period than clean or gray water.

A good restoration company will have specialized tools and equipment for removing the water and drying your home or business. They will use special blowers that can force the water to evaporate faster. This will reduce the chances of bacterial growth and mold. They will also have dehumidifiers that can lower the humidity levels in your home to prevent further damage.

You should also check how long the restoration company has been in the industry and what their experience is. The more experienced they are, the better their services will be. The company should also have a reputation for honesty and fair pricing.

Before the restoration process begins, personal items will need to be temporarily relocated. This is called a Pack Out and is usually covered by the personal property section of your homeowners policy. These items can include clothing, furniture and other household goods.

The cost of the restoration will depend on how bad the water damage is and what materials need to be repaired or replaced. The cost of the repair will also be affected by whether your insurance company will cover the costs. You can ask your insurance agent for an estimate before hiring a restoration company.

Natalie Wood – The Mystery Revealed 30 Years After Her Death