Recent Water Damage Posts
How Humidity Can Affect Your Home
8/2/2024 (Permalink)
This time of year, many in the Fayette County area are affected by the high humidity – the mugginess and discomfort. But no matter what the season, protecting your home from moisture and humidity is the key to living comfortably and preventing substantial damage.
By maintaining the indoor humidity level of your home between 30 and 50 percent, you can experience significant benefits. Along with enjoying a preferred comfort level, a lower indoor humidity setting prevents excess moisture which has the destructive tendency to rot a home’s wood furniture, drywall and window frames. Other household items, like musical instruments, react adversely to dampness. Maintaining low humidity also reduces the chances of mold getting a foothold and uncontrollably spreading throughout your home. Additionally, dust mites, some allergens and pest infestations have less of a chance to thrive in a properly humidified environment.
Each home handles humidity differently. Factors that influence how a house responds to humidity include the home’s construction and design, the airtightness of the home and if the builder installed vapor barriers. The following are some ways you can help reduce moisture and high humidity levels to protect your home:
Insulate Crawl Spaces - Crawl spaces are notorious for containing excess moisture and high humidity levels. These damp environments are a breeding ground for mold colonies. Rotted joists and damage to the home’s structure can result. But before installing insulation in crawl spaces, any standing water will need to be removed and the ground dried before laying down a vapor barrier.
Insulate the Basement - Many basements have problems with condensation which forms when moist air hits cold pipes, walls, and exposed ductwork. Adding insulation to these problem areas prevents the humid air from reacting to cooler surfaces.
Run the Air Conditioner - Did you know that air conditioning units help to dehumidify because the refrigeration process naturally gets rid of some of the moisture in the air? That’s why you see them dripping when running. If you don’t have an AC unit, then run a fan. It won’t directly remove moisture, but a few hours a day of steady airflow will help lessen minor dampness.
Run a Dehumidifier - Installing a dehumidifier will efficiently reduce humidity in high-moisture spaces like the basement. Mold grows in environments with humidity levels above 60 percent, so it should be set significantly lower than that. Monitor the dehumidifier; if the unit never shuts off, it is a sign of an air leak.
Possible Underlying Problems Possible factors contributing to moisture and high humidity in your home may be:
- a leak in your plumbing system
- water entering your home due to clogged gutters
- cracked sealants around windows and drains
- landscaping or pavement sloping toward the house
So, the most important thing that needs to be done is to identify and stop the water source before water damage can spread. This may be difficult for you to do, so call in the professionals from SERVPRO of Fayette County to take care of it. Our skilled technicians have the tools needed to find water damage and its source. They’ll remove all excess moisture with advanced water extraction equipment and techniques, dry your property, and repair the source of the damage. This will give you peace of mind so that you can enjoy your home again.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Do You Have a Leaky Ceiling?
2/23/2024 (Permalink)
Leaky Ceilings can be disastrous to your home or business. They can also be detrimental to your time, and money because it is often hard to determine the cause of the leak. All you know is the ceiling is dripping, but you don’t yet know why.
Therefore, finding the cause of the leak can delay the repair process, but it can also add to the expense of the repairs because the longer it takes to find the leak the more damage it will cause. So the first thing you should do is either call the experts at SERVPRO, or, if you are going to tackle the problem yourself, at least eliminate all the obvious non-causes so that you can start to pin-point the problem. When trying to determine the cause of a leaky ceiling, consider whether the leak occurs only in inclement weather, or if it occurs non-stop.
If the leak only occurs when it is raining or snowing outside it’s a safe bet that the roof could be the source of the leak.
On the other hand, if the leak occurs regardless of the weather conditions outside then the leak is most likely caused by a plumbing line inside the house or structure.
Another thing that can help you pin-point the source of the problem is to consider the water itself. Does it appear to be clear and fresh? If so, that could indicate to you that the water is coming from the water supply line. On the other hand, if water is coming from the roof you could see that dirt and other substances from the roof are being dragged along with it, and it would stain the ceiling.
If you have determined that the leak is possibly from the roof, and you want to fix it yourself you should start at the top and work your way down. Be sure to take all the necessary precautions, and have all required safety gear needed for a roof inspection.
If you have eliminated the roof as the source of the leak then it is going to take an inspection of the pipes in your home or building to solve the problem. Of course, not all people are prepared for home improvements and repairs, especially when it comes to major repairs.
If you have a leaky ceiling, or any kind of water damage to your home or business. For more information visit our water damage services page. We’re faster to any size disaster.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Categories/ Classes of Water Damage
8/4/2023 (Permalink)
Categories of Water Damage
Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start the water loss repair and mitigation.
Category 1
- clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows.
Category 2
- gray water, this means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness if ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps and seepage may cause category 2 water damage.
Category 3
- black water, this type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.
Classes of Water Damage: The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options.
Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation.
Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage.
Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture.
Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster and concrete.
If your home or business experience a water loss or water damage, call us here at SERVPRO of Fayette County, the leading water removal and restoration company, dedicated to protecting your biggest investment, Not everyone knows that water damage has different categories and classes, and just because it is a low category doesn't mean that it is a low class.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
We Are Always Ready!
4/28/2023 (Permalink)
We Are Always Ready!
SERVPRO of Fayette County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, no matter how large or small that they can be. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is very crucial. If you delay for just a few hours, it can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
SERVPRO is here to Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today at 724-628-3022
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need us as an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Fayette County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through any tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration - in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
Here is What to Expect
When you call us, we will ask several questions regarding the water damage emergency of your home or business. These questions will help our technicians to determine what equipment and resources that they need to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed for that job.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions
Including:
- 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)?
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Flooding and Electrical Outlets
9/16/2022 (Permalink)
Flooding and Electrical Outlets
When flooding occurs in your home or business you need to worry when the water rises to the height of electrical outlets. This can result in a loss of power. However, in some cases the results can spark and damage can create a fire in a house, apartment, or commercial building. There are restoration companies that specialize in water damage, but very few have the experience that can handle fire damage and water damage like SERVPRO of Fayette County.
For decades we have been in the business of restoring homes to original condition. Our expert response teams can pump out a basement and scrub away smoke residues with equal ease. Fortunately, fire damage that is caused by a flooded outlet is usually small and is mainly just smoke damage. In either disaster, removal of drywall is critical so that the workload is not as difficult to deal with.
However, the rising smoke can leave residue higher up on the walls, requiring more panels to be removed. Ceiling tiles can also require cleaning after a fire as well. When an outlet is damaged by water, it needs a replacement from the hardware store, which typically costs less than $5 apiece. The spot where the fire begins, the point of ignition, would be the outlet in this case. The wires leading to the outlet are melted to the outlet box and may require cutting from above where there is any damage.
It is important to inspect the rest of the building as well to ensure that the fried wires did not compromise any other building materials. If the damage runs very far back along the wires, then they require replacing so that the new outlet is in the original location. Our technicians are trained to run new wiring from any point in the structure back to the breaker box if it is needed to rebuild the wiring system of your home or business. This task is extremely easy!
A different team member removes the flooded drywall; exposing the drywall for easier access. Dealing with damage from a flood can be a very difficult and stressful process. Restoring your home and property from both requires professional treatment and care from experts with a nationwide support network or equipment.
SERVPRO of Fayette County is ready to help you whenever disaster strike.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
How To Unclog Your Sinks
8/12/2022 (Permalink)
How To Unclog Your Sinks
When you notice your sink draining slower or not at all, it’s more often than not a sign that your sink has a clogged drain. Whether you can see it on the surface of your drain, or it’s lodged somewhere in the pipes, it’s something that needs to be dealt with as soon as they can. Otherwise, the blockage can become bigger and even harder to remove. If you notice your water drainage starting to slow, try one of these tricks provided by the Home Depot;
- Carefully pour boiling water into the drain and allow it to flush out the clog and repeat as needed
- Pour baking soda and white vinegar, use a sink stopper to plug the drain for about 20-minutes, then pour boiling water down the drain slowly and repeat until the block has been cleared
- Use a plunger in a small puddle of water in the sink
- You can use a plumbing snake to clear a clogged bathroom sink
- Attach a wet-dry vac hose to the stopper pipe and connect the other end to a vacuum, pulse the power on and off a few times to help get the clog moving, and then sucked out
If none of these methods work, call a plumber or another qualified professional to help. And never try to continue using a sink when it’s badly clogged. Always be prepared and make sure you’re aware of your drain ahead of time. If it starts to slow, try one of these tricks right away. It might save you some hassle later on.
As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Fayette County are always here for you.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Process Through Water Loss
6/10/2022 (Permalink)
Process Through Water Loss
Experiencing a water loss can be a traumatic time for you or your business, so we put together a free guide of 10 things that walks you through the process of what to focus on if you have a water loss in your home or business.
1. Assess the situation: It is critical to look over the situation and see exactly what you are dealing with. It is critical to make sure that you take plenty of photographs of the damage and make sure that the source of what caused the damage is well documented. It is extremely important to make sure you do not walk or enter the water if the power is still on in the home or business. At this time it is proper to check with your insurance company to see what type of coverage you have.
2. Check was is wet throughout the damaged area: Through the use of moisture meters and other devices, you can begin to see what is wet and not wet. It is critical that you map out the damage and affected area. This can be an important part of the documentation process.
3. Begin the water extraction process: The first step after the documentation has begun, is to get the water removed as soon as possible. If the water sits for too long it can begin to create secondary damages. Water can be removed by using portable or truck mount extractors. Portables will take more time, and the truck mounts are much faster and efficient.
4. Begin to remove damaged materials that can not be dried and ventilate enclosed areas: Once all of the water has been extracted, certain flood cuts and other vent holes might be necessary. This is to allow air flow in closed off spaces. If no ventilation is allowed, secondary damage can occur inside the walls. Many times if you are dealing with sewage water, more flood cuts will be necessary. Try to take as many before and after photos as well.
5. Start to place air movers and dehumidifiers throughout the home or facility: The proper amount of equipment is critical when drying out a structure. It is important to make sure that all of the guidelines of the IICRC are followed to insure proper drying times. Be sure to continue to take plenty of photographs of the equipment in place on the job.
6. Monitor the drying process daily: Every 24 hours it is critical to make sure that you are checking the facility to make sure that it is drying. Sometimes there might be a delay in the drying process due to the source of the damage not being corrected. If so it will need to be corrected so proper drying can occur. Be sure to document the drying data each day for accurate records.
7. Remove Equipment: Once the home or building is dry, all of the equipment can be removed. It is important to make sure the right cleaning products are used to clean up the affected area. This will keep other secondary issues from happening as well.
8. Document with more photos: After the job is complete, be sure to document with more photos. This will keep accurate records for your insurance company from start to finish. You can never take too many photos when dealing with a water loss.
9. Begin the reconstruction process: Once everything is dry, you can begin to put the pieces back together. In some cases you might have to hire a contractor to do specific tasks like repair damaged drywall from the water. Be sure to continue to document any and all work on your home or business.
10. Keep complete records on file: After the entire job is complete, be sure to keep all of your records on backup. This can be valuable in case of any secondary damages in the future. SERVPRO can handle any water damage job from start to finish. It is critical to make sure you understand the in's and out's of each step mentioned above.
SERVPRO has the team and equipment to handle any size job and make sure that it is properly documented along the way. If you have any questions, or need emergency services you can call SERVPRO, 24/7!
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Water Can Be Tricky
5/9/2022 (Permalink)
Water is a really tricky thing to clean up at times.
Due to its state of matter, being a liquid, it can literally get into every spot of any area. This can cause severe damage if it is not mediated quickly. Since it can go basically anywhere, it is really hard to get it out from underneath carpets and from inside of the walls. However these are spots that must be remedied because water left in a dark, confined space is bound to create mold, and mold tends to spread rapidly within 24 to 48 afters after its initial growth.
Once the mold grows and spreads, your water problem turns into a mold problem. This tends to be more troublesome and costly for you as a customer.
At SERVPRO of Fayette County, we take action quickly to prevent mold growth by taking the measures necessary to dry and mediate all the water in your household, no matter where it may be. We make it "Like it never even happened." Please contact us for any questions.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Broken Hose
3/25/2022 (Permalink)
Broken Hose
A damaged hose will not only waste water and make outdoor chores more troublesome, but it can cause water damage to your home, as well. Unfortunately, you will often have no idea that there’s a problem until you find excess water around your foundation near the faucet or when the neighbor complains that you are flooding his or her yard!
WHAT ARE SOME WAYS THAT MY HOSE CAN HARM MY HOME?
Water damage to your home can occur any time water is allowed to run unchecked, and a faulty garden hose is a common culprit here. Damage could include:
- Erosion around walkways and driveways causing the concrete to crack or surfaces to collapse standing water to pool around foundations which can leak into low-lying parts of the home soaked ground conditions in your yard could attract insects and wildlife that may move indoors and infest your house wet earth around large trees can cause them to fall, and they could end up on your roof or fencing
- wet conditions around your foundations can seep into your walls, leaving you with structural issues and possible mold infestations
HOW CAN I PROTECT MY HERMITAGE/DONELSON HOME FROM WATER DAMAGE FROM MY GARDEN HOSE?
You can take some do-it-yourself Garden Hose Repair: 4 Tips To Repair a Leaking Garden Hose (bobvila.com) to repair your hose if it leaks and creates issues. Here are some helpful hints:
Pinholes are often only visible when you turn on your faucet and see small streams of water from punctured parts of the hose. You can use electrical tape to seal these tiny holes since it has the elasticity and weather resistance needed to be effective out-of-doors. Bigger tears in a hose can happen over time, and these will crack with exposure to extreme heat or cold. A hose mender - a short plastic or metal tube used to replace the damaged section - can be just the perfect fix here. A leak in your hose coupling is another cause of water damage. If you spot a steady drip coming from the hose coupling when you connect it to a source, the gasket may need to be replaced. You may notice that the coupling has been bent while you are replacing your gasket, so now is the time to replace that coupling, as well. A bent collar loses the watertight seal between the hose and a spigot, nozzle, or sprinkler, causing a leak.
WHO CAN I TRUST TO REPAIR WATER DAMAGE TO MY FAYETTE COUNTY HOME?
A professional restoration company like SERVPRO can be onsite right away to help you recover from all the issues water damage can cause. You can expect our water damage restoration process to look like this:
- The restoration process begins when you contact us. Our representative will guide you through the crisis by asking you questions that will help us better understand which equipment and resources will best fill your needs.
- Next, we determine the scope of your water damage at this stage. We inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.
- The water removal process will then remove the majority of the water. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to clean hundreds or thousands of gallons from your property quickly.
- We use specialized equipment to take away the remaining water that is harder to access. Our Professionals will use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business.
- We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water once the removal has been completed. We are experts at cleaning content using several different techniques. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.
- Restoration is the final step in the process of restoring your home to its original condition. Restoration may involve minor repairs, such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet, or significant repairs, such as reconstructing various areas or rooms in a home or business. SERVPRO of Fayette County is here to help you with water damage to your home, no matter the size of the restoration project. If you have experienced water damage and find yourself dealing with mold, remember that we are mold remediation experts, too! We can get your home or business Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned. This franchise is independently owned and operated.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
What Should You Do When Your Toilet Overflows?
12/15/2021 (Permalink)
What should you do when your toilet overflows.
The Following Are Three Steps To Properly Clean The Space Sewer Damage is cringe-worthy. Not only is the room a soggy mess, but it's possibly fraught with undesirable bacterial spores. Left alone this water could prove quite hazardous to the property; therefore, homeowners in Fayette County, should immediately begin cleanup procedures, working to eliminate the flood's source as well as disinfect the space.
1. Shut Off the Water Supply Reduce issues by containing the situation. Locate the valve on the bottom of the toilet, turning it clockwise into the off position. Reach into the tank to try to flush the water back down. Grab the float lever. It should lift the seal, permitting a flush. Continuous streaming may require the assistance of a professional sewage company.
2. Locate the Source Sewer damage occurs for numerous reasons. First, examine the commode and the drain. Items such as toys and hygiene products can clog the pipe, preventing proper flow. If this is the issue, try using a plunger to loosen the blockage. If more force is needed, then an auger, also known as a snake, could be run down the line. The long tube moves down the pipe, using force to dislodge the object. Another cause of the concern could be problems with the outside sewer lines. Outside of the house, you'll find a cap to the drain. Wearing protective gloves, carefully twist or pull it up. Water buildup is a sign of a potential issue with the pipe. Professionals can use cameras to examine for holes or cracks.
3. Wipe Down the Space If little waterescaped from the flooded toilet, then residents may attempt sanitizing on their own. Dry up excess moisture. Use warm water and soap to wipe everything off. Then, use a disinfectant to kill the germs. Damp walls should be dried with a dehumidifier. Be proactive about sewer damage, acting swiftly to limit the spread. Fix the original concern, and promptly scrub fixtures and flooring.
Any questions, give us a call.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Do you have a Continuous Water Leak?
12/9/2021 (Permalink)
Do you know if you have a continuous water leak?!
Water damage can be some tough stuff to deal with, especially when the source of the water is small but continuous.
This continuing water source can cause serious but undetectable damage to the inside of walls, floors, and under carpets. It's not noticeable until the problem is big enough to be recognized but the damage is already done by allowing the problem to go on and if it's not treated properly, mold can start to show, making the project even more expensive.
So to avoid this problem and save some money, make sure you check your hot water tank and visible water piping throughout the house often to make sure that everything is running fine.
*If you have any questions, call us today for a free estimate!
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Continious Water Source
10/27/2021 (Permalink)
Water Damage is not easy for anyone!
Water damage can be some tough stuff to deal with, especially when the source of the water is small but continuous.
This continuing water source can cause serious but undetectable damage to the inside of walls, floors, and under carpets. It's not noticeable until the problem is big enough to be recognized but the damage is already done by allowing the problem to go on and if it's not treated properly, mold can start to show, making the project even more expensive.
So to avoid this problem and save some money, make sure you check your hot water tank and visible water piping throughout the house often to make sure that everything is running fine.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Undectable Water Damage
7/9/2021 (Permalink)
Did you know water damage can be hiding?!
Water damage can be some tough stuff to deal with, especially when the source of the water is small but continuous.
This continuing water source can cause serious but undetectable damage to the inside of walls, floors, and under carpets. It's not noticeable until the problem is big enough to be recognized but the damage is already done by allowing the problem to go on and if it's not treated properly, mold can start to show, making the project even more expensive.
So to avoid this problem and save some money, make sure you check your hot water tank and visible water piping throughout the house often to make sure that everything is running fine.
"Like it never even happened."
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Undectable Water Damage
5/6/2021 (Permalink)
Water damage can be some tough stuff to deal with, especially when the source of the water is small but continuous. This continuing water source can cause serious but undetectable damage to the inside of walls, floors, and under carpets. It's not noticeable until the problem is big enough to be recognized but the damage is already done by allowing the problem to go on and if it's not treated properly, mold can start to show, making the project even more expensive. So to avoid this problem and save some money, make sure you check your hot water tank and visible water piping throughout the house often to make sure that everything is running fine.
"Like it never even happened."
Call us today at 724-628-3022
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
Overflowing Dishwasher
5/4/2021 (Permalink)
Overflowing Dishwasher
When it comes to an overflowing dishwasher in your Fayette County home or business, finding water cleanup services as quickly as possible is the best thing you can do for your property.
Water Damages wait for no one and come at the most inconvenient times. Without immediate attention, excess moisture can cause mold. Imagine a scenario where you did not realize regular dish soap cannot be used in a dishwasher, and the resulting overflow left you in need of urgent water restoration services. As the suds pop and deflate, leaving a puddle behind, the tile of your floor can become endangered, as well as your cabinetry. When you call SERVPRO at Fayette County for help, our technicians can come to your home quickly.
At SERVPRO of Fayette County, we pride ourselves on being experts at water remediation. To find hidden pockets of water, we can:
- Use thermal imaging cameras, to locate pockets between walls and under the flooring Remove the toe kicks from below your counters to look under them.
- Use moisture meters to measure levels inside of your home.
- Using some advanced technological devices, we can reach difficult places in your home!
Our SERVPRO of Fayette County technicians can use the following advanced technological devices to remove excess water:
- Extractors
- Wet/dry vacuums
- Flood drying mats
- Dehumidifiers
Our technicians always aim to leave your home feeling like it did before your water-related problems began.
We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, so give us a call at 724-628-3022. We're dedicated to leaving you feeling happy about the service you received.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
Broken Pipes?
12/14/2020 (Permalink)
Do you think you need to repair your pipes?
Pipes can break for three different reasons. You should always have a grid of pipes within your walls and floors. Here are a few of the most common ways a pipe can burst and what you can do to prevent it from happening.
- One thing can be frozen pipes. In the winter, homeowners need to be careful when using their pipes. Extremely cold weather can cause your pipes to freeze. The ice in the pipes can take up more volume than water. When the water within the pipe freezes, it expands and increases pressure. This pressure can literally make the pipe burst. You can help prevent this from happening, try to keep the water in your pipes running. This will stop the water from freezing. Remember to keep your house warm and never let it go below freezing while you are on vacation or out of the house. You can always insulate exposed water pipes with foam.
- Second reason can be rusty pipes. Pipes are made to last a long time, but the pipes are not invincible. Over time, pipes wear out and rust. When this happens, a pipe break is more likely to break due because the pipes are too vulnerable. If you think your pipes are old, inspect them or call a professional to help you out. Fix a broken pipe as soon as possible to avoid any type of flooding or water damage.
- A third reason for your pipes to break are unsecured pipes. When the pipes in your home can move around and cling, this means that they are not secured. Joints in the pipes can weaken, which makes it easier for pressure to find a way out of the pipes and this can create a leak or burst. When hearing your pipes make noise, fix and secure the weakened pipe.
To help a pipe from breaking, you should take precautions. When you think something is wrong with your pipes, fix them as soon as you can.
Tracie "Dusty" Nichols
724-628-3022
Emergency Water Damage Tips
12/8/2020 (Permalink)
Water in your home can happen at any time. The water can also come super fast if there are any type of storms or flooding.
So here are some emergency water damage tip from SERVPRO of Fayette County.
Emergency Water Damage Tips:
-First Step is to shut off the water source if it is available.
-You can remove all of the overabundant water by mopping.
-You should remove or set up the upholstery cushions to help dry.
-You could also put up furniture by using wood blocks.
-Move all rugs from soaked carpets.
-Please do not use a vacuum to remove any excess water from the home.
-Please do not use ceiling fans if wet and stay out of the rooms that have a bulge ceiling.
-Do not leave any type of books or colored items on carpets.
-Lastly, remove wet fabrics and do not leave them in their place
For any questions, call 724-628-3022.
We are open 24/7 for any type of disaster.
"Like it never even happened."
Faculty Water Heater Tanks
12/2/2020 (Permalink)
Faulty Water Heater Tank can cause flooding.
Do you ever think about checking on your water heater tank?
The water heater tank is a very important part of your home. It helps warm the water in your home for showers, sinks, and washing machines among other things. It is very important because some of those things cannot be done with cold water or it isn't properly done with cold water. Nothing can be properly killed like bacteria without hot water. You should always check on your water heater tank monthly or every couple months. If your tank is faulty, it could leak and spill water all throughout the area in which the tank is located. This can cause water damage and mold potentially. It could also raise your water bill and cause all kinds of problems with water temperature and water pressure occasionally. If the tank is completely broken, it could still leak water and cause all kinds of damage. Then it can also kill all the hot water in your building as well. This can cost a pretty penny to fix it or even get a new one. The water heater tank is something that must have an eye. Injuries can also be a factor if a water heater tank is broken. Some common water heater injuries that occur is that thousands of children are injured each year from scalding hot water that is the result of a water heater temperature being set too high. Some other factors can be leaks, fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, or even explosions are all possible causes of injury.
Here are seven main signs that your water heater tank could be broken.
1. You don't have enough hot water.
2. You have varying water temperature issues.
3. You have a leaking water heater.
4. You notice reduced water flow.
5. You're hearing some concerning sounds.
6. You have smelly or discolored water.
7. Your water heater is on the older end of the spectrum.
Protecting your property from flooding.
12/2/2020 (Permalink)
Flooding to your home can be troublesome.
Have trouble with flooding?
Here is what to do to help protect your property before flooding:
- Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box.
- If there are no restrictions, and you are building in a floodplain, take precautions, making it less likely your home will be damaged during a flood.
- Raise your furnace, water heater, and electric panel to higher floors or the attic if they are in areas of your home that may be flooded.
- Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
- Construct barriers such as levees, berms, and flood walls to stop flood water from entering the building.
- Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage through cracks.
- Consult with a construction professional for further information if these and other damage reduction measures can be taken.
What To Do Until Help Arrives
5/5/2020 (Permalink)
What to do When You Have a Water Damage From Clean Water.
DO:
- Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
- Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from 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.
- Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
- Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
- Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
- Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
What Not To Do Until Help Arrives
5/5/2020 (Permalink)
What Not to do When You have Water Damage From Clean Water
DON'T:
- Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
- Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed t water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
- Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
- Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
- Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
- Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
- Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
Water Damage Urgency
12/27/2019 (Permalink)
The stairs in this picture had to be stripped in order to be properly dried and cleaned to prevent mold growth.
Water is a really tricking thing to clean up sometimes. Due to its state of matter, being a liquid, it can literally get into every nook and cranny of any area and cause severe damage if it is not mediated quickly.
Since it can go basically anywhere its really hard to get it out from underneath carpets and from inside of the walls, however these are spots that must be remedied because water left in a dark, confined space is bound to create mold and mold tends to spread rapidly within 24 to 48 afters after its initial growth.
Once the mold grows and spreads, your water problem turns into a mold problem and tend to be more troublesome and costly. Not to mention that some mold is highly toxic and potentially fatal to humans.
At SERVPRO, we take action quickly to prevent mold growth by taking the measures necessary to dry and mediated all the water in your household, no matter where it may be. We make it "Like it never even happened."
Water Job Tools
12/27/2019 (Permalink)
This is a moisture meter in action getting a reading on a wall and floor
A water job can be very, very tricky. Water is an evasive liquid that can get into almost anything regardless of the seal it has. Because water gets everywhere its important to have the right tools to detect it and eliminate it.
One crucial tool is the moisture meter. This tool is able to detect water through floors and walls by measuring the electrical resistance between two electrodes. When moisture is present within the wood, electricity flows more easily. Where as, wood that is becoming dryer will resist electrical flow.
The proper tools are always a staple in any well-done job whether it be knives and cooking in the kitchen or shoes and playing basketball somewhere. With the proper tools you can do any job with maximum efficiency and precision.
Heavy Snowfall
12/26/2019 (Permalink)
'Tis the season for heavy snowfall. This time of year is when the snow really picks up and before you know it, everything around you is covered in cold, wet joy! Snow can accumulate rather quickly in the right conditions, sometimes leaving you in a sticky situation or with a big mess. On any given snow day you can find yourself with a water mess in the house because of excess runoff from melting snow. This can come from a leaky part of the house such as the roof or faulty pipes that freeze up when not maintained properly. Either way you still have a water mess and the root of the problem was the snow. So this New Year make sure you pay attention to the weather and your home to assure these accidents won't happen, but if they do, SERVPRO will always be there to make it "Like it never even happened."
Water Heater Tank
12/23/2019 (Permalink)
This a faulty/leaky water heater. If left unattended, the water that is leaking can cause major damage to the property.
Water damage is some of the trickiest stuff to deal with, especially when the source of the water is small but continuous. This continuous stream of water can cause severe yet undetectable damage to the inside of walls, floors and under carpets.
It's only undetectable until the problem is large enough to be discovered but by then, thousands of dollars worth of damage is already done by allowing the problem to go unnoticed and if it's not treated properly in a timely manner, mold can start to pop up, making the project even more costly then it initially started out as.
So in order to avoid this huge problem and save some green, make sure you check your hot water tank and visible water piping throughout the house often to assure that everything is operating smoothly and as it should be.
Flooding - Find Shelter
9/7/2018 (Permalink)
Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. The most common natural disaster in the United States is flooding. Failing to evacuate flooded areas, entering flood waters, or remaining after a flood has passed can result in injury or death.
Floods may:
- Result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems.
- Develop slowly or quickly - Flash floods can come with no warning.
- Cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings, and create landslides.
If You Are Under A Flood Warning, Find Safe Shelter Quickly.
- Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don't Drown! (Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 1 foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away)
- Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.
- Determine how best to protect yourself based on the type of flooding.
- Evacuate if told to do so.
- Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
- Stay where you are.
Flooding - Prepare Now
9/7/2018 (Permalink)
How To Stay Save When a Flood Threatens
Prepare NOW
- Know types of flood risk in your area.
- Sign up for your community's warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
- If flash flooding is a risk in your location, then monitor potential signs, such as heavy rain.
- Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response.
- Gather supplies in case you have to leave immediately, or if services are cut off. Keep in mind each person's specific needs, including medication. Don't forget the needs of pets. Obtain extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment.
- Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect and can protect the life you've built
- Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies.
- Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.
Flooding - Surviving During
9/7/2018 (Permalink)
Surviving During A Flood
- Depending on where you are, and the impact and the warning time of flooding, go to the sage location the you previously identified.
- If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
- Listen to EAS, NOAA, Weather Radio, or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions.
- Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don't Drown!
- Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can was bridges away without warning.
- If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, then stay inside. If water is rising inside the vehicle, then seek refuge on the roof.
- If trapped in a building, then go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Go on the roof only if necessary. Once there, signal for help.
Flooding - Be Safe After
9/7/2018 (Permalink)
Being Safe After A Surviving A Flood
- Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
- Avoid driving, except in emergencies. (You may be in the way of responders assisting others in need)
- Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.
- Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris and be contaminated. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
- Avoid walking on streets that the road is not visible, manhole covers may be lifted off of sewage drains.
- Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.
Available 24 Hour a day for Water Emergencies
9/6/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Fayette County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate actin is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today 724-628-3022
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 Fayette County 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.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needs.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several 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)?
Water Damage can Cause Mold
8/23/2018 (Permalink)
Water Damage in a basement that caused mold. Owner wasn't aware there was water in the basement.
When you have unwanted water from a flood or a pipe burst, quick response is the key! If water is not extracted and area not dried out in a timely manor, the water damage can cause mold. In order to limit the growth of mold in your home, you must control how much moisture is in your home. Within 24 to 48 hours a thorough clean-up and drying, and possible removal of water-damaged materials , such as drywall , carpeting and padding can prevent or limit mold growth. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals are highly trained to dry down an effected area and to safely and effectively to control and remove any mold contaminants while protecting the health and safety of any occupants that are in the building.
Faster to your Fayette County Water Damage Event
1/9/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Fayette County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in the Fayette County area.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fayette County 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 is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Fayette County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (724) 628-3022
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- 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 to 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 pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Fayette County
SERVPRO of Fayette County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
http://www.SERVPROfayettecounty.com/employee-photos
Certifications
- SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
- RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
- CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
- OCT - Odor Control Technician
- OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
- IICRC Certified Firm
- WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
- CRT - Color Repair Technician
- ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
Connellsville 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service
12/8/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Fayette County provides as 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in and around the Fayette County area.
SERVPRO of Fayette County 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 Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today (724) 628-3022
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 Fayette County 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.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several 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)?
About SERVPRO of Fayette County
SERVPRO of Fayette County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Certifications
- ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
- RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
- SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician
- ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
- OSHA - 10-hour General and/or Construction Industry Training Program
- CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
- CRT - Color Repair Technician
- IICRC Certified Firm
- WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
- OCT - Odor Control Technician
24/7 Emergency Service