Water Damages and what to do?

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

What actually occurred?

The plastic water line behind the refrigerator frequently cracks, starting a sluggish trickle that accumulates water behind the refrigerator unseen. Excessive condensation buildup is another typical cause that has the same result. Numerous issues can arise in your house as a result of water damage from your refrigerator, especially given how long the issue may go unnoticed before it is discovered and how much damage has already been done to your floors and the surrounding surroundings. Mold can grow and your floors can deteriorate in the ideal conditions of moisture, heat, and darkness. These mould spores can be problematic in places like apartments or enclosed spaces, and a condition like this should not be disregarded. Since SERVPRO specialises in mould remediation, we will gladly get rid of the problem and stop any future aggravation for you.

Next, what?

Any visible water must first be cleaned up to prevent further damage and the possibility of mould growth. After doing this, check your refrigerator to see if there are any obvious leaks or places where excessive condensation may be accumulating. If feasible, it's critical to replace any damaged connections in order to immediately halt the leak. Examine the damage to the area under and around the refrigerator if you are able to. The majority of the time, damage to the floors will be obvious, but the underlying issues may be hidden beneath.

what happens to water?

8/17/2022 (Permalink)

What Happens to the Water Now?

When a leak develops, it can be frustrating to try to determine where the water goes. It's important to know the right procedures to take when a leak is discovered coming from an appliance or an open entryway (window, door, hole).

It's considerably more challenging to manage in the case of multi-unit buildings, such as co-ops or apartment complexes. To choose an appropriate water restoration solution, it is vital to determine the path of the water. Since each apartment is normally plumbed separately yet shares walls, ceilings, and floors with other living spaces, multi-unit housing is a natural place for such detective work. When it is quite likely that the water from the leak eventually spreads throughout the building where you cannot even see it and other tenants have not yet noticed, it is insufficient for a landlord to just respond to the complaint of one tenant.

Is It Simple to Track Water's Movement from Space to Space?

Water is frequently said to follow the route of least resistance. This fact does not always stand up to inspection because there are many additional considerations. For instance, if condensation forms on a cold water supply pipe running parallel to the floor in a warm, damp basement, some water will drop in a line down the pipe's length and fall to the ground. There would be numerous damp places traced on the floor throughout the length of the pipe, as opposed to simply one wet spot. The condensation will, however, have a tendency to run down the pipe and collect in a circle at the bottom if the cold pipe is parallel to the floor. Additional cases may yield even more contrasting solutions.

Now Tell Me How Trained Technicians Follow the Water

Since water doesn't go along the same paths that people might assume from mythology, SERVPRO needs to come up with more dependable methods of figuring out where water travels and hides. During the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training, our specialists learn the fundamental techniques for detecting moisture. We employ moisture detectors with and without prongs to find the presence of moisture, which aids us in tracing the path of an intrusion by water. We also use specialised moisture metres to measure the amounts of water absorbed by porous materials for further data. After we remove any standing water, the moisture levels serve as baselines for our Applied Structural Drying (ASD) professionals as they decide what drying goals to set.

Why Is It Important? Shouldn't the Water Inside the Building Just Dry Up?

One of the worrying possibilities to think about is the potential for mould development if all water is not removed from every area of an apartment complex. Only a minimal amount of moisture is required for mould spores to "germinate" and start growing. Molds only require oxygen, water, and an organic surface on which to grow. Mold colonies can grow without light in any building cavity, above ceilings, and between walls. Landlords are required to locate the leak and make plans to remove all water as soon as one occurs due to the risk of mould damage when wood framing, drywall, ceiling tiles, and other building materials are even slightly wet.

How Do Experts Remove Water From Tight Spaces?

Even in a large apartment complex, portable extractors can be moved quite a distance inside the flats. Compared to the larger, more powerful truck-mounted models, the mobile units are significantly more adaptable in their usage and can fit in confined locations much more readily. Up to 12 litres of water can be extracted using the equipment before it needs to be drained and a new attempt made to remove as much water as is possible. The apparatus can be carried like a backpack. We must take into consideration various controlled removal procedures, such as drilling access holes into the walls, if the extractor cannot reach moisture even with extenders.

Dealing with Water Floods

8/16/2022 (Permalink)

Water Flood Damage

How to Stay Safe During a Flood

Water can enter your home during a storm and cause flooding, which can seriously harm your property. However, ensuring the protection of your immediate family, pets, and other loved ones should always come first. When the weather is safe, return to inspect the damage and start the cleanup once the storm has passed. When visiting the floodplain, avoid doing the following things:

Keep Your Hands Off the Water.

Numerous forms of contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and debris, can be found in floodwater. Wearing rubber boots, gloves, and avoiding getting your hands or face wet will help protect your skin from the damaging effects of the water. If, in spite of your best efforts, contact happens, wash right away with soap and fresh water.

Never step into standing water.

Homes, yards, roadways, and other locations may have standing water after a flood. It is not unusual to see downed powerlines following a storm because strong winds frequently accompany intense storms. You can't always discern what's underneath the surface because floodwater is typically murky. If you enter a flooded home, you can get an electric shock if the water has been electrically charged. The risk of electrocution will be reduced with the use of rubber boots.

Don't let the water stand still.

Bacteria have more time to grow the longer water sits. The structural integrity of objects might start to deteriorate if they are submerged in water over extended periods of time. As quickly as possible, the water should be carefully evacuated. You can limit any water damage to your home by clearing the water more quickly. As soon as the water has been removed from the area, you should start the drying process because mould can start to form in as little as 24 to 48 hours.

By following a few precautions, you can help keep yourself safe from the dangers of floodwater.

Advice on what to do after facing water flood

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Floods in your building can be terrible; we understand how stressful and frustrating this can be. However, there are certain things you can do in the first 24 hours after a flood if you follow our advice.

• Take photos of the damage before removing any water. This will help your insurer understand the extent of the damage.
• Protect Your Health: Sewage or home chemicals could contaminate the water. Wear rubber gloves if you plan on lingering near the water.
• Contact your insurance provider: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the flood. Keep the phone numbers of your insurance company and local agent in your phone for emergencies.
• Remove Water: Once your insurer has given you permission to do so, utilise a sump pump and contact a restoration business.
• Mold can develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours after a flood. Make sure to rapidly remove any moist contents, such as carpets and bedding.

Flooding at your home or company necessitates the assistance of an expert. To get it repaired as soon as possible, contact your local restoration firm.

Water Damages and it's consequences

5/28/2022 (Permalink)

With the temperatures rapidly rising and the hot summer season rapidly approaching, our natural impulse is to crank up the air conditioning indoors!

Even throughout the summer, though, the potential of water damage remains a concern.

If air conditioning units are not properly maintained, they might cause drainage problems. Make sure you change your air filter on a regular basis to avoid this. Regular inspections and cleanings are also necessary to avoid any problems in your unit from becoming worse. The drainage pan is one thing to keep an eye on. Make sure there isn't any water seeping and gathering in the pan. Mold, mildew, and fungus may quickly grow and spread, especially in hotter conditions.

Another factor to consider is the possibility of pipes bursting. Although burst pipes are more common in the winter, they can still cause a nightmare for a house or property owner in the summer. Whenever your water pressure changes, it's a good idea to pay attention. While it could simply be an annoyance, it could also be a sign that something more serious is about to happen. This could be the result of corrosion, which causes leaks and, eventually, water to enter your house or office.

The possibility of pipes bursting does not end there. If you observe cracks emerging on the walls, especially around the corners, it's reasonable to presume your foundation has changed. However, watering the soil on a regular basis and even planting plants around the foundation perimeter is a simple remedy. Plants can help to regulate soil temperature and can also keep the ground together with their roots.

Water damage is the last thing any homeowner or business owner wants to deal with, regardless of the weather!

Dealing with water Damage. Calling nearest SERVPRO!

5/27/2022 (Permalink)

Once water damage has occurred, begin the process of finding a solution as soon as feasible. This entails enlisting the help of a professional cleanup and restoration company to remove all of the undesirable water from the structure. To quickly distribute water, we have truck-mounted pumps and portable extractors. With the help of air movers and dehumidifiers, both desiccant and refrigerant, our Applied Structural Drying Technicians (ASD) can dry out your home. Our IICRC-certified WRT-Water Damage Restoration Technicians follow IICRC cleaning guidelines. We make sure the impacted regions are dry by using moisture metres, infrared cameras, and hygrometers.

Mold and Water Damage

5/26/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home can be caused by a variety of factors. Leaky pipes that aren't visible, damaged appliances, and even rain and flooding are all possibilities. What's crucial to know is that if you have water damage or suspect mould, you should contact SERVPRO. There are a few things to remember until assistance arrives.

If visible mould is present, do not disturb it. Inadvertently spreading the mould infestation across your home is a possibility. When mould is disturbed, microscopic mould spores are released into the air and can spread throughout your home.

What You Should Do:

Stay away from the impacted areas.

Turn off the air conditioning and fans.

What to Avoid:

Do not disturb or touch the mold.

Blowing air across any surfaces with evident or suspected mould development is not a good idea.

Don't try to dry the area on your own.

Spraying bleach or other disinfectants on the mold is not a good idea.

Floods And Damage Across Several States

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Storms and heavy rains can cause heavy flooding in a short period of time. Certain parts of the country experienced heavy rains earlier this year. People experienced dangerous storm water and flood damage in 6 states in early March. The National Weather Service is warning that rivers will stay in flood stage for days. The flood waters forced evacuations and millions in damage.

After The Flooding

Flooding means that not only will a homeowner have to think about the current situation of being displaced from their home and losing some of their personal belongings, but the results after the water is gone. Standing water is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Once the water has subsided the presence of dirt, grime, bacteria and mold will be present. The level of expensive damage depends on how long the standing water is left unattended. There is no telling when the water can be extracted from the towns let alone people’s houses.

After the waters have subsided and before you immediately enter your home refer to this checklist.

1. Watch out for wild animals, poisonous snakes that may have entered the home, check thru the debris.
2. Watch out for plaster, loose ceiling structures and document everything for yourself and for insurance purposes.
3. Throw away any food, anything that may have come in contact with the flood waters, anything in the fridge.
4. Check electrical systems, gas leaks, sewage and water lines all for damage.

Call SERVPRO Even if your flood damage is not as dramatic as what we saw in the south earlier this year, we'll be there to help.

Damage from Clean Water:

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

Damage from Contaminated Water:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contaminants.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

SERVPRO is here to help. Give us a call if you have water damage

We are available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

A Flooded Basement Can Lead To Structural Issues And Mold

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level.

There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including:

A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe

Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home

Storm sewer backup
Sanitary sewer backup
Foundation drainage failure
Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call us Today

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get. Mold is also a threat if the water damage isn't treated.

If your home or business has a mold problem, we can inspect and assess your property and use our specialized training, equipment, and expertise to remediate your mold infestation.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today

A flooded basement can jeopardize your safety, and your home’s integrity.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week

We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies

We Bill the Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About

Our Technicians are Highly Trained in Water Restoration Techniques

We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards

Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

SERVPRO technicians are available to help.

WATER DAMAGE: THE SCIENCE OF DRYING Water

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

When faced with water damage, we might instinctively reach for towels to dry the wet. We might add fans to aid the process. However, there is actually a science to the drying process. The knowledge of psychometrics, the dynamics of moist air, is critical to lower the chances of secondary damages. Your IICRC certified and trained technicians at SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton know the steps to take when your business or residence experiences water damage:

• First, we’ll conduct an inspection to detect what material(s) are wet
• Next, we’ll measure how much moisture is in those wet components and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Additionally, we’ll "speed up" the process by using professional drying equipment.  While a wet building can often dry naturally, it might do so unevenly, inadequately, or might take too long…all allowing for secondary damages to occur.

SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton has the knowledge, advanced equipment, and the technology, DryBook (a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation, updates on the drying process, and confirms industry drying requirements are met) to ensure that your water damage is mitigated. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage can be unexpected

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis.SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton has specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it is the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call us, we will ask questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring. This includes how many trained SERVPRO professionals we may need.

Our SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton Representative will ask questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

We're faster to any Water disaster

5/7/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton provides 24/7/365 fire and water damage restoration service.

We do not wait for regular business hours. SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage are invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, plus more.SERVPRO of La Vernia, Pleasanton arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:

Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin too tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:

Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:

Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants can pose risks to occupants.