Frozen Pipes and Expert Tips for Prevention

1/16/2025 (Permalink)

Frozen Pipes: SERVPRO of Chesterfield's Expert Tips for Prevention

Winter brings the risk of frozen pipes, a common issue that can lead to extensive water damage in homes and businesses. Frozen pipes occur when water inside plumbing lines freezes and expands, potentially causing pipes to burst. Taking proactive steps to prevent frozen pipes can save property owners significant time, stress, and money on costly repairs.

SERVPRO of Chesterfield, a restoration company specializing in water damage mitigation, recommends several effective methods to protect pipes from freezing. These include insulating exposed pipes, sealing air leaks, and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature. Pipes that run alongside exterior walls or in unheated spaces are particularly vulnerable and may require extra attention.

Understanding the risks and implementing preventive measures is crucial for safeguarding plumbing systems during cold weather. By following expert advice and taking action before temperatures plummet, property owners can significantly reduce the likelihood of dealing with the aftermath of burst pipes.

Understanding Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes pose a significant risk to homes and businesses during cold weather. They can lead to costly damage and disruptive water outages if not addressed promptly.

Causes of Frozen Pipes

Pipes freeze when exposed to prolonged cold temperatures, typically below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Uninsulated pipes in exterior walls, attics, and crawl spaces are especially vulnerable. Poor heating in vacant properties also increases the risk.

Sudden temperature drops can catch property owners off guard. Wind chill factors exacerbate the problem by accelerating heat loss from pipes.

Pipes with a small diameter freeze more quickly due to less water volume. Those in unheated areas or near drafts are at higher risk.

Consequences of Pipe Freezing

When pipes freeze, water expands and creates immense pressure. This can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to significant water damage. Even a small 1/8-inch crack can leak up to 250 gallons of water per day.

Water damage from frozen pipes can ruin floors, walls, and personal belongings. It may also lead to mold growth if not addressed promptly.

Burst pipes often result in:

• Disrupted water supply
• Extensive property damage
• Costly repairs
• Potential displacement from home or business

Immediate action is crucial when pipes freeze to minimize damage and prevent further complications.

Preventive Measures for Homeowners

Protecting pipes from freezing requires proactive steps by homeowners. Proper insulation and strategic heat circulation can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Insulation Techniques

Pipes in unheated areas are particularly vulnerable to freezing. Homeowners should focus on insulating pipes in basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

Foam pipe sleeves offer an effective and affordable insulation solution. These can be easily wrapped around pipes to provide protection against cold temperatures.

For added insulation, homeowners can use heat tape or heat cables. These electrical solutions provide direct warmth to pipes, preventing freezing even in extreme cold.

Sealing leaks and cracks near pipes is crucial. Cold air can enter through small openings, increasing the risk of frozen pipes. Caulk or spray foam can be used to seal these gaps effectively.

Proper Heat Circulation Strategies

Maintaining consistent warmth throughout the home is key to preventing frozen pipes. Homeowners should keep their thermostats set to a minimum of 55°F, even when away from home.

Opening cabinet doors under sinks allows warmer air to circulate around pipes. This simple step can make a significant difference in preventing freezing.

For extremely cold nights, letting faucets drip slightly can help. Moving water is less likely to freeze than standing water in pipes.

Using space heaters in problem areas can provide targeted warmth. However, it's essential to follow safety guidelines when using these devices.

Sealing drafts and improving insulation in the home's envelope can help maintain overall warmth, indirectly protecting pipes from freezing.

SERVPRO of Chesterfield's Role

SERVPRO of Chesterfield plays a crucial role in preventing and mitigating damage from frozen pipes. They offer expert services to protect homes and businesses from water damage caused by burst pipes during cold weather.

Emergency Response and Mitigation

When frozen pipes burst, SERVPRO of Chesterfield provides rapid emergency response to minimize damage. Their 24/7 availability ensures quick action when every minute counts.

Upon arrival, technicians assess the extent of water damage and develop a comprehensive mitigation plan. They use powerful pumps and vacuums to remove standing water quickly.

SERVPRO employs industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry affected areas. This prevents secondary damage like mold growth.

The company's restoration services include repairing or replacing damaged drywall, flooring, and other materials. They aim to return properties to their pre-damage condition efficiently.

SERVPRO of Chesterfield's emergency teams are equipped to handle projects of all sizes, from small residential leaks to large commercial water damage incidents.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips

Regular plumbing maintenance throughout the year helps prevent frozen pipes and other issues. Taking proactive steps each season protects your home's plumbing system and avoids costly damage.

Winter Preparedness Checklist

Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to prevent freezing. Seal cracks and holes in exterior walls near pipes with caulk or insulation.

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses before freezing temperatures arrive. Close interior valves supplying outdoor faucets, then open the outside faucets to drain the remaining water.

Set the thermostat no lower than 55°F (13°C), even when away. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation around pipes.

Locate the main water shut-off valve and ensure everyone in the household knows where it is. This allows quick action if a pipe bursts.

Summer and Fall Plumbing Tips

Check for leaks in faucets, pipes, and hose connections. Repair any issues promptly to prevent water waste and potential damage.

Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage away from the home's foundation. This reduces the risk of water damage to basement walls and pipes.

Inspect the water heater for signs of corrosion or leaks. Flush the tank annually to remove sediment buildup and improve efficiency.

Test the sump pump to ensure it's working correctly before heavy rains arrive. Consider installing a battery backup system for added protection during power outages.

Do-it-Yourself Solutions and When to Call Experts

Dealing with frozen pipes requires a balance of DIY techniques and knowing when professional help is necessary. Prompt action can prevent extensive damage and costly repairs.

DIY Thawing Techniques

To thaw frozen pipes, start by opening the faucet to allow water to flow as the ice melts. Use a hairdryer, heat lamp, or portable space heater to warm the pipe, starting from the faucet end and working toward the coldest section. Never use open flames or electrical appliances near standing water.

For accessible pipes, wrapping them in hot towels can be effective. Alternatively, use electrical heating tape designed for pipe thawing. Keep the heat source moving to avoid overheating one area.

If the frozen section is behind a wall, try turning up the home's thermostat or using an infrared lamp to heat the wall surface. Monitor the process closely to prevent fire hazards.

Identifying Situations for Professional Help

Call a licensed plumber if pipes are inaccessible, if there's no water flow after thawing attempts, or if you suspect a pipe has burst. Signs of a burst pipe include water stains on walls or ceilings, unusual sounds in the plumbing system, or unexplained increases in water bills.

Professionals should handle situations involving main water lines or complex plumbing systems. They have specialized equipment to locate and thaw pipes in hard-to-reach areas.

If water damage has occurred, contact a restoration service like SERVPRO of Chesterfield. They can assess the extent of damage and provide necessary cleanup and repairs to prevent mold growth and structural issues.

Mold Remediation: Effective Strategies for a Healthy Home

12/13/2024 (Permalink)

Mold can pose serious health risks and damage to homes, making prompt remediation essential. Mold remediation effectively removes mold and restores areas to a safe and healthy state, preventing future growth and health hazards. Understanding the process of mold remediation helps homeowners make informed decisions about when to hire professionals and how to manage minor mold issues themselves.

The process typically involves identifying the source of moisture, containing the affected areas, removing contaminated materials, and applying treatments to eliminate remaining spores. By following proper procedures and safety measures, mold can be dealt with effectively and responsibly.

Awareness of the signs of mold and the importance of timely action can save homeowners from extensive damage and costly repairs. This article will explore the key steps involved in mold remediation and offer practical tips for maintaining a mold-free environment.

Understanding Mold

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in various environments, often posing risks to health and property. A comprehensive look at its types, health implications, and growth conditions is essential for effective management.

Types of Mold

Mold exists in numerous species, each with unique characteristics. Common types include:

· Aspergillus: Often found in soil and decaying matter, it can produce toxins harmful to humans.

· Penicillium: Recognized for its role in antibiotic production, this mold can also cause allergies and respiratory issues.

· Stachybotrys chartarum: Known as black mold, it is notorious for its association with severe health problems, particularly in damp environments.

Each type can have distinct appearances ranging from green to black and fuzzy to slimy. Identifying specific mold types aids in determining appropriate remediation strategies.

Health Implications

Exposure to mold can lead to various health issues, especially for sensitive individuals, such as those with asthma or compromised immune systems. Symptoms may include:

· Respiratory issues: Coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing.

· Allergic reactions: Itchy eyes, skin rashes, and sinus congestion.

· Severe responses: In more serious cases, exposure to certain molds can result in long-term health effects, including lung infections.

People should be aware of these risks, particularly in homes or buildings where mold growth is prevalent. Addressing mold issues promptly can mitigate health risks effectively.

Mold Growth Conditions

Mold requires specific conditions to grow, primarily moisture. Key factors include:

· Humidity: High humidity levels (above 60%) provide an ideal environment for mold.

· Materials: Organic materials, such as wood, drywall, and textiles, are conducive to mold growth.

· Temperature: Mold thrives in warm environments, typically between 77°F and 86°F (25°C and 30°C).

Preventive measures should focus on controlling these conditions. Regular inspections and proper ventilation are critical to maintaining a mold-free environment.

Assessment Procedures

Effective mold remediation begins with thorough assessment procedures. These steps include various inspection techniques, mold sampling methods, and determining the extent of mold presence. Each step plays a critical role in understanding the mold problem and formulating an effective remediation plan.

Inspection Techniques

Inspection techniques are fundamental to identifying mold presence and moisture sources. Trained professionals visually inspect various areas, focusing on high-risk environments like basements, bathrooms, and around plumbing fixtures.

Tools such as moisture meters and thermal imaging cameras can enhance detection. Moisture meters measure the levels of dampness, while thermal cameras identify temperature variations, often indicating hidden mold.

Moreover, professionals consider the building structure and materials. Porous materials, such as drywall and wood, are particularly susceptible to mold growth. A comprehensive visual assessment takes these factors into account.

Mold Sampling

Mold sampling involves collecting samples to identify the type of mold present. Techniques include air sampling, surface sampling, and bulk sampling.

Air sampling captures airborne mold spores, providing insight into mold levels within indoor air. Surface sampling, done with swabs or tape, involves taking samples from surfaces where mold is suspected. Bulk sampling collects material suspected of harboring mold for analysis.

Samples are analyzed in labs to identify mold species and concentrations. Knowing the specific types of mold helps determine health risks and appropriate remediation methods.

Determining Mold Extent

Determining the extent of mold growth is crucial for developing a remediation strategy. This process involves assessing not just visible mold but also hidden infestations.

Professionals may employ invasive techniques, such as cutting into materials, to check for deeper mold growth. In some cases, behind walls or under flooring may hide substantial mold colonies.

Additionally, evaluating the duration of moisture presence helps quantify the severity of mold growth. Using tools like moisture meters and visual evidence, a comprehensive map of affected areas can be created, guiding effective remediation.

Remediation Strategies

Effective mold remediation requires a structured approach to minimize health risks and property damage. This section outlines key strategies, focusing on containment, mold removal, and proper handling of materials.

Containment and Ventilation

Containment is essential to prevent mold spores from spreading during the remediation process. Establishment of physical barriers using plastic sheeting can help isolate affected areas. This includes sealing off doors, vents, and windows to prevent cross-contamination.

Proper ventilation is equally critical. During remediation, using negative air pressure machines can expel contaminated air, ensuring cleaner air circulation. Workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as N95 respirators and protective clothing to minimize exposure.

Employing air filters can further improve air quality. Combination of HEPA filters and air purifiers assists in capturing airborne spores, enhancing safety during the process.

Mold Removal Methods

Mold removal methods vary based on the level of contamination. Thorough cleaning is crucial for minor infestations. This may involve scrubbing surfaces with detergent solutions or using specialized cleaners designed for mold.

For more significant growth, physical removal of contaminated materials is often necessary. Materials such as drywall, carpeting, or insulation may need complete replacement if they are heavily infested.

In addition, antifungal treatments can be applied to surfaces post-cleaning to prevent future growth. It’s important to follow manufacturer guidelines for these products to ensure effective results.

Materials Handling and Disposal

Handling contaminated materials requires caution. Proper disposal methods help prevent the spread of mold. All removed materials must be sealed in heavy-duty plastic bags before being transported.

Local regulations on hazardous waste can dictate specific disposal options. It’s advisable for professionals to check local guidelines before proceeding.

In some cases, items may be salvaged after thorough cleaning and drying. However, porous materials often require disposal due to their inability to be effectively cleaned. Ensuring proper documentation of removed materials can assist in maintaining compliance with regulations.

Prevention and Control

Effective prevention and control strategies are essential for reducing mold growth in indoor environments. Key practices focus on managing moisture levels and making informed building design choices.

Moisture Control

Controlling moisture is vital in preventing mold growth. Mold spores require a damp environment to thrive, so keeping humidity levels below 60% can significantly reduce the risk.

Practical measures include:

· Using dehumidifiers in basements and crawl spaces.

· Ventilating areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, by using exhaust fans.

· Fixing leaks promptly to prevent water accumulation in walls or ceilings.

· Sealing windows and doors to prevent moisture infiltration.

Regularly inspecting areas for condensation and water damage is also crucial. If mold is detected, it should be addressed immediately to prevent further spread.

Building and Design Factors

Building design plays a key role in mold prevention. Structures should incorporate materials and layouts that minimize moisture accumulation.

Considerations include:

· Using mold-resistant materials, such as drywall and paint, particularly in moisture-prone areas.

· Designing proper drainage systems around the foundation to divert water away from the building.

· Implementing adequate insulation to prevent condensation on cold surfaces.

Proper ventilation in attics and crawl spaces helps ensure air circulation, further limiting moisture build-up.

Incorporating these design aspects can create a resilient barrier against mold, ensuring a healthier indoor environment.

Restoration and Repair

Restoration and repair are crucial steps in the mold remediation process. These actions not only address existing damage but also ensure that affected areas are safe and livable once again.

Structural Repairs

Structural repairs may involve replacing damaged materials like drywall, insulation, or flooring. When mold has compromised these elements, they must be removed to prevent further growth and structural instability.

Professionals evaluate the extent of the damage and proceed with appropriate repairs. This could include:

· Drying out: Ensuring all affected areas are completely dry.

· Reconstruction: Installing new drywall or flooring, depending on what was damaged.

Hiring experts in restoration ensures that repairs meet local building codes and guarantees a safe environment. They also offer advice on preventing future mold exposure.

Finishing Touches

Once structural repairs are complete, finishing touches are essential for restoring the aesthetics of a space. This stage often includes painting and installing fixtures.

Attention to detail in this phase includes:

· Painting: Using mold-resistant paint to protect surfaces.

· Cleanliness: Ensuring all areas are spotless and free from contaminants.

Professionals often recommend using high-quality materials that withstand moisture. This helps maintain the integrity of the repair work and reduces the likelihood of mold returning. Engaging with experts ensures a thorough approach to both functional and aesthetics.

Cooking Fires

10/15/2024 (Permalink)

Fires involving cooking are the number one cause of residential fires, and about 50% of these cooking fires involve grease. It is important to understand how to properly put these fires out, if possible, in order to help prevent further damage to your home.

• Never Use Water
  • Putting water on a grease fire can cause the oil to splash and spread the fire to more areas of the home and cause serious harm to you as well.
• Turn off the Heat Source
  • If the fire is small and you can do so without hurting yourself, turn off the stove, or if it is in the oven turn off the oven and leave the door closed.
• Cover the Fire
  • Using a metal baking sheet or lid, cover the pan that is on fire. This will help reduce oxygen to the flames and hopefully help to extinguish the fire as quickly as possible. This is the same reason that you should not open the door to the oven if something catches fire in there.
• Putting Out the Flames
  • If covering the fire with a pan or lid isn’t an option, you can use salt or baking soda to cover the fire and hopefully smother the flames. Be aware that it will take a lot of baking soda or salt to properly cover the fire and put it out.
• Fire Extinguishers
  • If neither of the above methods work, you can use a fire extinguisher to put out the flames. Be sure to use a properly rated fire extinguisher. Class K extinguishers are meant specifically for putting out kitchen/grease fires and you should have one in your kitchen if you do not already in case of emergency. NEVER use a class A fire extinguisher on a grease fire as these are water based and can make the fire worse.
• Cleaning Up the Damage
  • Even small fires are capable of covering your kitchen in nasty smelling smoke and soot residue. Particles of soot from animal fats and other food products are sticky hard to clean, and often require professional help to clean up.

If your home experiences a kitchen fire, Your local SERVPRO is here to help! Our team of professionals is always training in the latest techniques and technologies to help ensure that cleaning up your home after a fire is done in the most efficient and effective way possible.

Commercial Cleaning

7/24/2024 (Permalink)

Commercial properties often require complex solutions for cleaning up messes. From isolating potential biohazard issues, to being able to continue business operations while the cleanup efforts are happening, there are many factors involved.

In a retail environment a fast response is especially important to help prevent inventory loss from the damages, or to be able to allow customers to come back into the store. Our team will come in an expertly handle any cleaning of your shelves, displays, and even your merchandise, helping you get back to business as usual as fast as possible. We are a 24/7 business, so if needed we can work on your schedule, allowing you to keep your storefront operational while our work continues after hours.

In healthcare facilities, biohazard cleanup can present its own set of issues. Without the proper protocols and training it can be possible for cross contamination to happen and for things like mold to spread to other areas of the facility. Our highly trained professionals will quickly assess your needs and work with environmental and infection control teams to help ensure all health certifications are obtained prior to completing the job. Our teams are trained to handle all of the complexities involved with the cleanup and restoration of medical facilities including HIPPA and the proper disposal of medical waste.

Property managers can also benefit from our commercial cleaning services. We are able to follow strict isolation practices to help ensure that other tenants don’t experience any issues while we’re working in other units and their daily lives are not interrupted.

These are just a few examples of how our commercial cleaning services can help you and your business get back to operation as normal after a loss. Your local SERVPRO is available 24/7, 365 days a year for any help you may need, so please give us a call and let us know what we can do for you.

Pet Preparedness for Storm

7/24/2024 (Permalink)

People often talk about making emergency preparedness plans and emergency kits for themselves and their families in the event of severe storms, but how much thought have you given to an emergency plan/kit for your pet? After all they’re part of the family so you’d never leave them behind, but how prepared are you to bring them along?

It’s important when you have pets to make sure that your emergency evacuation plans include places that are pet friendly. Many shelters and hotels do not offer accommodations for animals, so having a safe place to take your pets along with your family is crucial. You should also talk with friends or family to make sure that in the event that you can not evacuate with your pets someone is able to get them and care for them. Finally, you should get your pets microchipped. Keep this info up to date with correct addresses and an emergency contact that is outside of your immediate home. Emergencies can be hectic, and accidents can happen where pets get away from you, but if they are microchipped the likelihood of them being returned home safely is greatly increased.

Once your plan is in place you should build an emergency kit for you pets. Just like for your family’s emergency kit it should include the basic items needed for survival in the event of an emergency:

• Several days’ worth of food and water stored in airtight (waterproof for food) containers
• Medicine/First Aid Kit – talk with your veterinarian to find out what is best for your pets’ personal emergency needs
• Extra collar, ID tag, leash/harness - this should also include copies of your pets’ registrations and other documents in a waterproof container and electronically
• Crates or carriers for each animal
• Grooming items and sanitation needs - emergencies can be messy and having a dirty pet is less than ideal, additionally this should include things like a litter box/litter if appropriate or plastic bags
• A picture of you and your pet together - this can help people to identify your pet should you be separated as well as help prove ownership if needed
• Familiar items – As stressful as emergencies can be for you and your family, they can be even more so for pets who don’t understand what’s going on. Having familiar items like toys or blankets can help make your pet feel safe and more relaxed

Your local SERVPRO knows that during storms being prepared is key and having a plan for everyone involved makes things that much easier. We hope that this little checklist can help you keep your pets safe should any emergencies arrive.

Hardwood Floors Water Damage

7/8/2024 (Permalink)

Hardwood Flooring

When your home experiences water damage, besides the structural concerns, one of the biggest can definitely be your hardwood floors. Hardwood floors are expensive and add both cosmetic and monetary value to your home so, if possible, you obviously want to try and avoid ripping them out and replacing them.

There are multiple factors that can play a part in our ability to restore your floors to preloss conditions:

• Moisture Levels – Hardwood floors have a very low moisture content. When water pools on them for long periods of time the moisture gets soaked into the wood and can take weeks to dry out on its own. This can cause the wood to buckle, have raised edges or have the panels separate from each other.
• Time – The type of wood in question plays a role in how quickly water is absorbed and then dried out. Wood rot happens when microbial growth in water is left without treatment in wood and begins to breakdown the wood. The faster that the water damage to your hardwood floors is addressed the more likely we are able to restore your floors and not have to replace them.
• Drying Methods – Both the kinds of woods used as well as the installation methods play a part in the decision of which drying method should be used to dry out your floors. Specialized equipment like drying mats can be used to dry large portions of your flooring at a time helping to speed up the process and ensure moisture readings are at the correct levels. Using the installation methods, wood density, and other factors, our trained technicians will determine just how long the mats should be left in place.

As you can see, there are quite a few factors that decide whether or not you will have to replace your expensive hardwood floors or not, and that it’s best left to the professionals to handle to help increase your odds of restoration. So, if you find yourself in need of water damage restoration, don’t delay and give us a call asap. Our team is waiting to see how we can help you today.

Commercial Fire Safety Tips

6/4/2024 (Permalink)

Fires can be absolutely devastating on commercial properties. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, non-residential structure fires accounted for almost $3.5 BILLION in property loss in 2020.

Are you prepared for a fire on your business’s property? Here’s a few common fire safety violations that can help keep your business, and more importantly your employees and customers safe.

Blocked Passageways and Exits – Hallways, doors, stairs, and any other paths to the outside of the building should never be obstructed. Even things like small packages left outside an office door in the hallway can become a life-threatening hazard should a fire evacuation take place.

Untested Smoke Detectors and Fire Alarms – These systems must be tested annually by a licensed professional. Be sure that all pull stations for the fire alarms are unobstructed and that smoke detectors have fresh batteries. When it comes to fires every second counts, and if your fire alert systems are malfunctioning it can be the cause of even more severe damage to your property or harm to your employees.

Damaged or Too Few Fire Extinguishers – Inspection and maintenance on fire extinguishers is easily overlooked when large commercial buildings can have so many to keep track of. ALL fire extinguishers should be FULL, classified for each area they are in, and inspected regularly to ensure they will function properly if needed. Without a functional fire extinguisher, a small containable fire can easily turn into a catastrophic large loss fire because no one was able to put it out before it spread.

These are just a few of the common violations that can happen in your business, so be on the lookout and make sure that you keep fire safety at the front of your mind for your business to help prevent dangers and costly repairs. 

As always, if your business does suffer from a fire, your local SERVPRO® has a team of highly trained technicians with the knowledge needed to help you recover your business. We’re equipped to handle losses of all sizes and can take care of all aspects of the project, from clean up to reconstruction. Give us a call so we can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Backyard Bonfire Safety

2/21/2024 (Permalink)

With cooler nights here, (and fewer mosquitoes) we may want to plan an outdoor evening on the deck or in the back yard with family or guests, gathering around firepits and clay chimineas.

Bonfires especially can be a great activity for the whole family, but it’s important to keep in mind the dangers of open flames and how to have a bonfire responsibly!

• You should always either use a fire pit purchased from the store or dig your own – Fire pits are a crucial part of keeping a bonfire contained where you want it to be and not have it spread. Be sure to also clear away brush from around the fire pit as well.
• Make sure your fire is a safe distance from houses, trees, powerlines, or anything that can be affected by the heat.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose close by – accidents happen and being able to address them immediately is how to prevent things from getting worse.
• Use newspaper and small kindling to get the fire started, NOT gasoline or other accelerants.
• Never spray aerosols or toss canisters into the fire – The heat can make these containers explode and throw burning embers everywhere.
• Limit your fire size – It’s tempting to make a big fire, but you should make sure to keep your fire to a manageable size, no bigger than a few feet around.
• When you’re done, be sure that the fire is completely extinguished – stir the ashes around and use more water than you think you need to ensure there is nothing still smoldering. Embers can stay smoldering, hidden under a bed of ashes for hours and can be relit by the wind unexpectedly.

Bonfires are a lot of fun and a great way to spend time outside, just be sure that you are taking the proper precautions to do so safely.

Storm Readiness 101

1/8/2024 (Permalink)

As leaders in the restoration industry, we know firsthand the amount of damage that a storm can do to your home. Addressing the damage as quickly as possible is key to preventing further damage from occurring. We wanted to share some of the most important areas of your home that can be affected by storm damage, so you know where to check afterward.

1. Basement – Areas of your home that are underground are some of the spots that are the most prone to water damage following a storm. Check around the edges of your basement floor and walls for signs of moisture. Make sure that drain spouts are properly angled away from your home and that there are no areas where water can pool next to your house.
2. Foundation – Similarly to basements, your home’s foundation is particularly threatened by water damage after storms. Water from the outside can seep into cracks in your foundation and weaken it over time. Double-check check there is no standing water or signs of moisture in your concrete, and make sure that your sump pump is functioning properly.
3. Crawlspaces – Water can pool in areas underneath your home and cause significant damage to the structural components, like mold and rotting wood.
4. Windows – Over time the seals on your windows can degrade and strong storms can crack windows and window frames, allowing water to get into your home.
5. Roof – Probably the most prone to storm damage, wind can damage shingles and throw broken tree branches all over your home. As one of the main sources of protection from the outside elements. It is crucial to inspect your roof after a storm. Ensure there are no leaks and remove any debris that could further damage your home. Check for any signs of moisture in your attic as well as this could be a sign that there is a hole somewhere you might’ve missed.
6. Gutters – Strong winds and falling branches can damage your gutters or even completely rip them off the side of your house. Your gutters are essential in preventing water from getting into your home and directing it away from your home’s foundation. Make sure that your gutters are in good condition and free from any debris that may clog them.

While storm damage may not always be 100% preventable, hopefully, these tips can help you prevent any further damage from happening, and if you do happen to find any signs of damage to your home after a storm. Our technicians are here to help. We’re available 24/7, 365 days a year, so don’t wait, give us a call and let us know what we can do for you.

Temperatures are dropping, is your home ready?

1/5/2024 (Permalink)

With winter fast approaching and colder weather on the way, is your home ready to keep you and your family dry? Check out these best practices to help prevent winter water damage to your home! • Prevent frozen pipes and pipe bursts o Any faucets connected to pipes in unheated areas (attic, crawl space, outside) are more likely to freeze when the temperature drops. Be sure to let cold water drip from those faucets to help prevent freezing. o If you plan on leaving your home for multiple days during freezing temps leave your heat on. Heating costs may rise a bit, but comparatively, to a burst pipe in your home, you’ll be happy you did. • Prevent ice dams o When warm air from your home heats the roof and melts the snow on the roof it collects in unheated areas and refreezes, making ice dams that limit drainage off the roof and can cause damage to your home. o Make sure to clear your gutters and downspouts so that water can drain off the roof and doesn’t collect anywhere to refreeze o Install gutter screens to help keep out debris build-up in gutters o If you live in an area with especially large amounts of snowfall, consider installing snow guards to prevent snow accumulation on your roof and lining under your shingles to prevent leaks as snow melts • Ensure you know where and how to shut off your water in case of an emergency o When pipes freeze or burst it is important to be able to respond immediately and prevent the issue from getting any worse. Make sure that you know where your water shut-off is and turn it off the second you discover a leak While the cold weather can bring potential damage to your home, taking the proper steps to get ready can help you enjoy the winter wonderland stress-free, and if disaster does happen rest assured that us here at your local SERVPRO are ready to help you make it “Like it never even happened.”