Archived Water Damage Blog Posts
A Step-by-Step Explanation of How We Handle Water Damage Claims
3/11/2024 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County, we've seen firsthand the havoc that water damage can wreak on homes and businesses. From burst pipes to natural disasters, water damage doesn't discriminate, and the aftermath can be devastating. However, amidst the chaos, there's a glimmer of hope in the form of professional cleanup and restoration services.
First and foremost, when dealing with water damage, time is of the essence. The longer water sits, the more extensive the damage becomes, leading to mold growth, structural issues, and potential health hazards. That's why our response time is crucial. We're trained to act swiftly, arriving on-site promptly to assess the situation and begin mitigation efforts immediately.
One of the first steps in water damage cleanup is extraction. Using specialized equipment such as pumps and wet/dry vacuums, we remove standing water from the affected area. This step is vital for preventing further saturation of building materials and minimizing the risk of secondary damage.
Once the excess water is removed, we focus on drying and dehumidification. Industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers are strategically placed to facilitate evaporation and draw moisture out of the air and surfaces. This step may take several days to complete, depending on the extent of the damage and environmental conditions.
In addition to drying, thorough cleaning and sanitation are essential components of the restoration process. We use antimicrobial treatments to disinfect affected areas and inhibit mold growth. Porous materials like carpeting and drywall may need to be removed and replaced if they cannot be adequately cleaned and dried.
Throughout the cleanup and restoration process, communication with the property owner is paramount. We provide regular updates on our progress and work closely with insurance companies to streamline the claims process. Our goal is to alleviate stress and uncertainty for our clients while restoring their property to its pre-damaged condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Water damage cleanup is a complex and multi-faceted endeavor that requires expertise, experience, and dedication. At SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County, we take pride in helping our customers navigate the challenges of water damage restoration, providing peace of mind during a stressful time. If you ever find yourself facing water damage, remember that SERVPRO® is here to help you every step of the way.
Call us 24/7 at 810-732-3298
5 Things to Do After Basement Flooding
8/30/2023 (Permalink)
Few things are more stressful and disgusting than basement flooding. Whether it’s one inch or one foot of water, the effects can be detrimental to your home. And while damage to things like carpet, drywall, and furniture are immediately noticeable, something more serious could be lurking underneath your floors.
Five Things to Do After Basement Flooding
Whether it’s just a couple of inches of water or a few feet, you must respond quickly to basement flooding. Here are a few things you’ll need to do:
- Kill the Power
If there’s standing water in your basement, then you shouldn’t attempt to walk or wade through until you’ve shut off the power and made sure that open circuits aren’t covered by water. This can obviously be an electrocution hazard and isn’t something you want to mess with.
If you’re unsure of whether the electricity is cut off, can’t get to the circuit board, or simply don’t feel comfortable with the situation, then don’t attempt to go anywhere near the water.
- Get Rid of the Standing Water
The next order of business is to get rid of the water. The longer the water sits in your basement, the more damage it will cause. Make sure you put on a pair of sturdy shoes or boots and pants that cover your legs. You never know what’s lurking underneath the water and don’t want to risk hurting yourself.
If the standing water is high, your first step is to get a bucket and start manually removing the water (be sure to dump far away from the home’s foundation). Once you extract most of the water, you can use a wet vacuum to suck up the moisture from the floor.
- Call in the Professionals - Like SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County
Once the standing water is removed, you should call in the professionals to take a look. Depending on the extent of the damage and how meticulous you want to be, this may include calls to an electrician, a flood cleanup crew, and a general contractor. Fortunately, a single call to our office at 810-732-3298 can handle all of those repairs
Any carpeting or absorbent materials that were affected will need to be ripped up or replaced. If appliances spent any time sitting in the water, they should be looked at by a professional before being used.
- Call Your Insurance Provider
Once all of the time-sensitive issues have been handled, take a few minutes to call your insurance provider to let them know about the problem. If the flooding happened as a result of one of your home’s plumbing systems, then your home insurance policy may cover some or all of the damage. However, if the flooding was the result of a natural disaster, then you’ll most likely need flood insurance. Regardless, place a couple of phone calls to see what can be done.
- Protect Your Home
As soon as everything gets repaired and restored, you should begin taking proactive steps to protect your home from similar issues in the future. The ground next to your basement and foundation should slope away from the home. Gutters and downspouts should slope away too while discharging water a minimum of five feet away from the home. All windows and vents should be sealed and your basement walls should be waterproofed with an appropriate product. If flooding is common, consider installing special French drains or even a sump-pump.
Toilet Overflow
8/17/2022 (Permalink)
Overflowing toilets are every homeowner’s worst nightmare. The mess and odors can be extremely stressful and overwhelming. That is why SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County are here to help!
A toilet overflow usually occurs when a blockage prevents water and waste from flushing down the toilet drain. This backup prevents water and waste from flowing down the drain and causes your toilet to overflow. If it's not cleaned up quickly, it may cause extensive water damage to your bathroom floor or even leak through the ceiling below. Other common causes of overflowing toilets are sewage backups, septic tank issues, low flow toilets and malfunctioning plumbing.
If your home has water damage from toilet overflow, call SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County. We are ready 24/7 - 365
What is The Difference Between a CAT I, II, and III Loss?
7/21/2022 (Permalink)
CAT I
A category I loss is when the water is coming from a clean water source and will not cause harm if inhaled or ingested. Examples of this would be a broken supply line or a tub overflow.
CAT II
A category II loss is when the water poses a minimum threat. For example, a toilet overflow with only urine or a dishwasher overflow.
CAT III
A category III loss involves water that is highly contaminated and may contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. For example, water containing silt, pesticides, toxic organic substances, or metals, are all CAT III losses.
SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained for any category of water loss you may have. Our team is ready and available day or night, 24/7.
Roof Damage
4/30/2022 (Permalink)
Roof damage is always a major concern when big rain or snow storms come through. Usually the signs are very evident. Water spots on the ceiling, curled shingles, wet walls or winter ice damage are are all very easy ways to determine if your roof is in need of a little TLC.
Missing shingles are always a sure tell sign but you should also pay close attention to any possible damage done to the remaining shingles.
Missing flashing at the edges of the roof, vents and chimneys should also be attended too in order to prevent unwanted water from entering your home during the next storm.
pealing sealant can also cause problems so be sure to look for that as well.
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County is on call 24/7. We can restore or replace any issues with your roof.
Do not hesitate to give us a call today....
810-732-3298
Steps in Water Damage Preparation
2/15/2022 (Permalink)
Emergency Contact
When you call, our specialist will guide you through several questions that will help us appropriately respond to your unique water emergency. Beyond understanding your situation, we will want to set up a time for your local SERVPRO professional to inspect the property and create a restoration plan for you. Fast response is critical, so we’ll want to schedule this as soon as possible.
Inspection and Water Damage Assessment
After our professionals arrive at your home, they will thoroughly assess the water damage and help you understand its severity, hazards that may be present, and determine what can be restored. If necessary, we will also assist with stopping the source of the water damage. All of this is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in the successful restoration of your property.
Water Removal
Service work normally begins with a thorough extraction of water. This helps prevent the spread of water in the structure and reduces drying time. Typically, hundreds or thousands of gallons of water are removed using powerful pumps and extraction units during the water removal process.
Damaged Material Removal
If any materials cannot be successfully restored, this will be communicated to you. These materials are typically removed as soon as possible to expedite the drying of all restorable materials.
Cleaning, Sanitizing, and Deodorization
Water damage can create cleaning, sanitizing, or deodorization needs for floors, furniture, and other personal belongings. SERVPRO professionals use a variety of specially formulated products, industry-leading equipment, and proven techniques to accomplish this important aspect of restoration.
Drying
After the bulk of the water has been removed, our specialists use industry-leading drying equipment to remove the water you can’t see. This will target water within materials to bring these materials back to their normal moisture level. This equipment is normally placed during the first visit to your property. The type and amount of equipment is based on your unique situation and industry standards.
Monitoring
During the drying process, our specialists will want to visit your property daily to help ensure materials are drying properly, check drying equipment performance, and make changes as needed. This monitoring process is critical to effective and efficient drying of your property.
Repairs and Construction
After these initial steps, your home may need construction work to get your property back to its preloss condition. The repair step can be minor repairs or rebuilding entire areas of your home. We can simplify the restoration process by handling both the initial damage mitigation and rebuilding the affected areas. Having one qualified company for the entire process can save time and keeps costs low.
Winter Wind Damage
2/4/2022 (Permalink)
Mid-Michigan has had allot of heavy winds lately, putting allot of pressure on the exterior of your home. Wind can leave your roof exposed and that is especially dangerous when entering the cold winter months. Snow and ice can build up over time and cause further breakdown of the exposed area. When fall comes around and everything outside thaws, the water will begin to slowly leak inside. Water works very quickly and can make its way down the drywall and into the flooring before being detected. When water has a chance to sit mold begins to grow. At this point everything must be removed, cleaned, and replaced. Always inspect the exterior of your home after any type of storm and if you are in need or repairs, call SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County 24/7, 365 days a year!
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County Technicians
10/19/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of NW Genesee County technicians are trained to safely and correctly clean and restore your home or business, utilizing the following procedures:
-Identifying the Source/Type of Water
-Measure the Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
-Survey the Extent of Damage
-Perform Emergency Water Extraction
-Move and Block Furniture
-Inspect Carpet pad/Carpet
-Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)
-Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Dryingto ensure
-Disposal of Debris
Abiding by OSHA guidelines and all applicable health regulations, SERVPRO technicians remove moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean your customers home and restorable belongings.
SERVPRO of NW Genesee County is there for you when a disaster strikes, 24/7 365 days a year- even on holidays!
We make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of Port Huron Trained Technicians
10/19/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Port Huron technicians are trained to safely and correctly clean and restore your home or business, utilizing the following procedures:
-Identifying the Source/Type of Water
-Measure the Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
-Survey the Extent of Damage
-Perform Emergency Water Extraction
-Move and Block Furniture
-Inspect Carpet pad/Carpet
-Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)
-Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Drying to ensure
-Disposal of Debris
Abiding by OSHA guidelines and all applicable health regulations, SERVPRO technicians remove moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean your customers home and restorable belongings.
SERVPRO of Port Huron is there for you when a disaster strikes, 24/7 365 days a year- even on holidays!
We make it "Like it never even happened."
First Thing First
8/10/2021 (Permalink)
The last few weeks in Michigan have been wet, to say the least. Our emergency service line has been ringing non-stop and our team is working around the clock. Do you know what to do at the first sign of a water leak?
1) Identify the source- where is the water coming from?
-Is it the sump-pump, a broken pipe, or is there water coming in from your basement windows?
Why does this matter?
Insurances companies put each loss in a different type of category so knowing the cause is vital when confirming if a service is covered or not which brings us to point # 2.
2) Know your insurance policy- verify your coverage before you request a service team otherwise you may be stuck with a big bill at the end.
3) Call in the experts!
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County
810-732-3298
Faster to Any Size Disaster
6/10/2021 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee 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 Northwest Genesee 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 – (810) 732-3298
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 Northwest Genesee County
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee 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.
Give us a call today at 810-732-3298!
Sump Pump Quality Check
4/26/2021 (Permalink)
A sump pump eliminates moisture and prevents flooding by collecting excess water from drains and pumping it out and away from the building. You will find a sump pump sitting in a specially constructed pit that sits lower than the basement floor in homes that are susceptible to major rain and snow fall.
If your pump stops working, water could get into your basement and foundation walls. This may cause mold and mildew to grow and if enough water builds up, the basement can flood.
How do you know your sump pump is working?
You can check your sump pump tow different ways. Two separate plugs are attached to the unit. Unplug them both and then plug in only the one for the pump. If the pump does not immediately turn on then something is wrong. Your other option is to add water and wait to see if the pump turns on and properly evacuates the water.
What are Ice Dams? What can you do?
2/19/2021 (Permalink)
When an ice dam gets large enough or starts to lift the shingles, water will find its way into the interior of your home.
Heavy snow? Check. Extreme Temperatures? Check. The perfect storm for Ice Dam Season.
An Ice Dam is a lump of ice that forms at the edge of a roof under certain wintertime conditions, and are a common sight during long Michigan winters. It can damage both your roof and the inside of your home, while also putting gutters and downspouts at risk. It’s important to understand that properly installed roof systems are still prone to leaks and damage caused by ice dams.
How do Ice Dams Form?
An ice dam forms when the underside of the roof over the attic gets warm enough and begins melting snow. The water trickles down between the layer of snow and the shingles until it reaches the edge of the roof, which stays cold because it extends beyond the side of the house. There, the water freezes, gradually growing into a mound of ice.
As the ice dam continues to grow, it traps water behind it. The ice and water can back up under shingles, seeping into the attic, ruining insulation, rotting wood and damaging plaster and drywall. Eventually, it will drip into the insulation and down into the ceilings and exterior walls beneath the eave, ruining walls and paint. If the roof sheathing stays wet, it can form mildew and start to rot.
If the ice dam breaks free, it can pull shingles and gutters off with it, and it will damage anything it falls on: shrubs, window sills, cars, pets, and people.
What can you do?
There are several things you can do to avoid getting an ice dam or to reduce the risk of damage after one has formed, but there’s really only one cure: a combination of better eaves and attic insulation and venting.
Attempting to remove an existing dam by chopping it or using heat can damage the home. We suggest the use of calcium chloride to combat the buildup of ice at the edge of your roof. It can be found at your local hardware store.
If you find that the interior of your home has been damaged by water seeping in from an ice dam, give SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County a call 24/7 at 810-732-3298.
*Please confirm coverage with your insurance provider, as many carriers consider ice dam buildup to be part of home maintenance*
Snow and Ice Build Up and The Damage it Can Cause to your Home
12/28/2020 (Permalink)
is a beautiful and magical time of year. The snow fall makes for a picture perfect kind of day. But what happens if you leave all that snow on your roof and in your gutters to freeze?
Snow Damns- When snow falls on your roof and the temperature is above freezing, the snow melts and trickles down to a part of your roof that is colder and below freezing. The water then freezes and expands which can damage your shingles, open up cracks and create a snow damn. They may be beautiful to look at but they create an awfully expensive roof repair when not attended to properly.
Cave in's- if we have a bad snow storm, large amounts of snow can accumulate on your roof and if it is not removed in a timely manner, the weight of the snow could cause your roof to cave in.
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County are the experts in all things water. Call us any time-24/7- 365 days a year.
810-732-3298
Michigan and Water
10/19/2020 (Permalink)
When talking about our wonderful state of Michigan, a few things comes to mind.
The many large and beautiful lakes make for awesome boating months in our warm summer season and beautiful blankets of white snow cover the ground in winter creating a wonderland for skiing, sledding and ice fishing. It is safe to say that WATER plays a big part in just about everything we do.
Unfortunately, water also plays the biggest part in Michigan home and business damage every year.
Knowing this, SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County has assembled the areas leading team in water restoration.
Our professionals provide 24/7 emergency services with quicker response times and our efficiency and communication between the customer and insurance adjusters make us a preferred vendor for many nation wide insurance companies.
The team at SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County has extensive water damage restoration training with an emphasis on monitoring and documenting the drying process until completion.
We proudly serve both residential and commercial properties.
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County
810-732-3298
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County Can Handle Any Size Water Disaster
7/20/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of NW Genesee County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit NW Genesee County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 810-732-3298
How to Prevent Water Damage in your Bathroom
7/20/2020 (Permalink)
14,000 US citizens have a water related issue in there home every day. Allot of these issues come from a home owners bathroom. Anything from a leaky or overflowing toilet, a crack in the pipes, or an overflowing sink from faulty valves, can leave a home owner with a major loss on there hands.
These simple suggestions could keep you from being a statistic.
- Frequently test valves for your toilet, shower, and sink to ensure they are properly working.
- Check faucet supply lines hidden under vanities and replace when needed.
- If you notice a clog in your sink, call in a professional.
- Keep an eye out for rust or brown colored stains in the drywall. This may be a sign that something is wrong with the hidden pipes.
Torrential Rains cause Flooding in Midland, Michigan
6/19/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO vehicles on a job site with flooding in the background
After days of torrential rain in Midland, Michigan, the heavy and unrelenting water caused the Sanford and Edenville dams to fail, flooding thousands of homes in the area.
We got the call, and SERVPRO of NW Genesee County headed north to help the large loss team. We couldn't start work the first few days, at least until the water started to recede, but we were able to assist with a few of the local first responders in their rescue efforts.
Once the water levels finally went down, we were able to take on multiple jobs and assist many homeowners during what was likely the worst time in their lives.
That's what it means to be part of TEAM GREEN - a company that is independently owned and operated, but still comes together to support each other during catastrophic weather events. That's the real power behind the SERVPRO name.
Flooding and Storm Damage
6/10/2020 (Permalink)
As we have recently come to understand in the state of Michigan, storms and flood damage can come quickly and without warning. Leave it to the pros at SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County who have the expertise, knowledge and equipment to handle any size disaster and can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.
What we Offer
- 24/7 Emergency Services
- Highly Trained Water Restoration Services
- Faster to Any Size Disaster
- A Trusted Leaded in the Restoration industry with over 1,700 Franchises
Why Us?
Faster to Any Size Disaster
SERVPRO Professionals are dedicated to responding immediately to water and storm damage emergencies. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces cost.
Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists
We specialize in water and storm damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. SERVPRO Professionals of Northwest Genesee County have extensive water damage restoration training that enables us to get you back to normal.
- Water Damage Restoration Technician
- Applied Structural Drying Technicians
SERVPRO and Your Insurance Company
4/24/2020 (Permalink)
Why choose SERVPRO for your repairs and restoration?
We offer you and your insurance company a variety of competitive advantages.
-Our professionals pride themselves on restoring your home or property correctly the first time and in a timely manner so you can get back to your life. This will allow for lower claims costs for your insurance provider and satisfied customers.
-Our large team of professionals are trained for any size disaster. This means a quicker response time for your home or business.
-SERVPRO franchise professionals can provide an itemized loss inventory. You will receive an Excel formatted report and pictures of important items.
-SERVPRO Franchise Professionals must agree to 21 different guidelines to receive Insurance Client referrals. From insurance to background checks on employees, each requirement is maintained continually to help ensure clients get the best possible service providers performing work.
Let SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County go to Work for You
10/30/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of NW Genesee County technicians are trained to safely and correctly clean and restore your home or business, utilizing the following procedures:
-Identifying the Source/Type of Water
-Measure the Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
-Survey the Extent of Damage
-Perform Emergency Water Extraction
-Move and Block Furniture
-Inspect Carpet pad/Carpet
-Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)
-Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Dryingto ensure
-Disposal of Debris
Abiding by OSHA guidelines and all applicable health regulations, SERVPRO technicians remove moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean your customers home and restorable belongings.
SERVPRO of NW Genesee County is there for you when a disaster strikes, 24/7 365 days a year- even on holidays!
We make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO of Norhtwest Genesee County- Let us go to Work For You
7/15/2019 (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 NW Genesee County 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 Today - 810-732-3298
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
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
What you Should Know about Sewage Backup
7/10/2019 (Permalink)
All sewage backups are an emergency and should be treated as such. The water may contain viruses and bacteria that can make you sick. SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County has trained professionals who come in to your home ready to quickly and efficiently take care of the problem.
When describing the damage and severity of a sewage back up, three categories are used
Category 1 or Clean Water is water that comes from a clean source such as a faucet or clean water supply line. If left unattended this type of water can quickly move to a category 2 or 3.
Category 2 or Gray Water may contain bacteria and would cause illness or discomfort if digested.
Category 3 or Black Water is extremely unsanitary and can cause death or severe illness if ingested. This type of water comes from the toilet bowl with feces or water from beyond the toilet trap.
Call SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County today for any of your restoration needs.
810-732-3298
5 Things To Do After A Basement Flooding
6/10/2019 (Permalink)
Few things are more stressful and disgusting than basement flooding. Whether it’s one inch or one foot of water, the effects can be detrimental to your home. And while damage to things like carpet, drywall, and furniture are immediately noticeable, something more serious could be lurking underneath your floors.
Five Things to Do After Basement Flooding
Whether it’s just a couple of inches of water or a few feet, you must respond quickly to basement flooding. Here are a few things you’ll need to do:
- Kill the Power
If there’s standing water in your basement, then you shouldn’t attempt to walk or wade through until you’ve shut off the power and made sure that open circuits aren’t covered by water. This can obviously be an electrocution hazard and isn’t something you want to mess with.
If you’re unsure of whether the electricity is cut off, can’t get to the circuit board, or simply don’t feel comfortable with the situation, then don’t attempt to go anywhere near the water.
- Get Rid of the Standing Water
The next order of business is to get rid of the water. The longer the water sits in your basement, the more damage it will cause. Make sure you put on a pair of sturdy shoes or boots and pants that cover your legs. You never know what’s lurking underneath the water and don’t want to risk hurting yourself.
If the standing water is high, your first step is to get a bucket and start manually removing the water (be sure to dump far away from the home’s foundation). Once you extract most of the water, you can use a wet vacuum to suck up the moisture from the floor.
- Call in the Professionals - Like SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County
Once the standing water is removed, you should call in the professionals to take a look. Depending on the extent of the damage and how meticulous you want to be, this may include calls to an electrician, a flood cleanup crew, and a general contractor. Fortunately, a single call to our office at 810-732-3298 can handle all of those repairs
Any carpeting or absorbent materials that were affected will need to be ripped up or replaced. If appliances spent any time sitting in the water, they should be looked at by a professional before being used.
- Call Your Insurance Provider
Once all of the time-sensitive issues have been handled, take a few minutes to call your insurance provider to let them know about the problem. If the flooding happened as a result of one of your home’s plumbing systems, then your home insurance policy may cover some or all of the damage. However, if the flooding was the result of a natural disaster, then you’ll most likely need flood insurance. Regardless, place a couple of phone calls to see what can be done.
- Protect Your Home
As soon as everything gets repaired and restored, you should begin taking proactive steps to protect your home from similar issues in the future. The ground next to your basement and foundation should slope away from the home. Gutters and downspouts should slope away too while discharging water a minimum of five feet away from the home. All windows and vents should be sealed and your basement walls should be waterproofed with an appropriate product. If flooding is common, consider installing special French drains or even a sump-pump.
Your First Phone Call to SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County
5/28/2019 (Permalink)
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 NW Genesee County
SERVPRO of NW Genesee 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.
How Do They Get All of This Water Out of My Home?
5/15/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County has highly trained professionals who have a precise plan of action when your home is affected by water.
First they organize a move-out/pack-out to protect all of your belongings.
Next the water removal begins immediately.
So how do they get all of that water out of there?
Depending on how much water you have, SERVPRO may use power submersible pumps along with industrial strength, wet/dry vacuums. This reduces drying time and helps to prevent mold.
The flooring needs to be inspected to determine if removal will be necessary in order to protect the subfloor.
Moisture detectors are then used to measure the extent of water and inferred cameras are used to find water that may be hidden behind the walls.
After this the dry out process can begin and you can begin and you will be one step closer to getting your home back!
Call SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County any time you have a water problem and let one of our experts get you back into your home faster.
810-732-3298
When Disaster Strikes, Leave It to the Pros- Call SERVPRO of NW Genesee County!
10/25/2018 (Permalink)
A mop and common household cleaning products may not be enough when your home or business floods. SERVPRO of NW Genesee County technicians are trained to safely and correctly clean and restore your home or business, utilizing the following procedures:
-Identifying the Source/Type of Water
-Measure the Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
-Survey the Extent of Damage
-Perform Emergency Water Extraction
-Move and Block Furniture
-Inspect Carpet pad/Carpet
-Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)
-Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Drying to ensure
-Disposal of Debris
Abiding by OSHA guidelines and all applicable health regulations, SERVPRO technicians remove moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean your customers home and restorable belongings.
SERVPRO of NW Genesee County is there for you when a disaster strikes, 24/7 365 days a year- even on holidays!
We make it "Like it never even happened."
Genesee County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!
7/6/2018 (Permalink)
This Genesee County basement flooded after heavy rains
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 Genesee County 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
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today - SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County - 810-732-3298
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
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
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 810-732-3298
Genesee County Property Managers - Why You Need to Be Prepared
7/5/2018 (Permalink)
Unexpected water damage can be a devastating situation to anyone. From losing personal property to sometimes having to stay at an alternative residence until mitigation is complete, especially in apartment complexes, condos, or any other multi-unit properties.
It is so important for property management companies to prepare for the worst, given the large amount of people and personal property that can be affected. In an emergency situation it is important to take action as quickly as possible to avoid any further damage and to try to salvage what can be saved before it is too late.
In order to prepare for an emergency situation, SERVPRO of NW Genesee County can create an Emergency Ready Plan with your property manager that indicated all of the important aspects of the property. Example: Flooring Type, Number of Units, Electrical Box Locations, etc. This will help the team at SERVPRO of NW Genesee County respond and act faster when disaster strikes.
For any commercial damage or cleaning needs, please give SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee County a call, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at 810-732-3298
The Devastating Effects of Water Damage
7/5/2018 (Permalink)
We were able to get to this basement flood within hours and start the mitigation process.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee 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 Northwest Genesee 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 – (810) 732-3298
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 Northwest Genesee County
SERVPRO of Northwest Genesee 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.
Give us a call today at 810-732-3298!
When Disaster Strikes, Leave It to the Pros- Call SERVPRO of NW Genesee County!
10/20/2017 (Permalink)
A mop and common household cleaning products may not be enough when your home or business floods. SERVPRO of NW Genesee County technicians are trained to safely and correctly clean and restore your home or business, utilizing the following procedures:
-Identifying the Source/Type of Water
-Measure the Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
-Survey the Extent of Damage
-Perform Emergency Water Extraction
-Move and Block Furniture
-Inspect Carpet pad/Carpet
-Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)
-Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Drying to ensure
-Disposal of Debris
Abiding by OSHA guidelines and all applicable health regulations, SERVPRO technicians remove moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean your customers home and restorable belongings.
SERVPRO of NW Genesee County is there for you when a disaster strikes, 24/7 365 days a year- even on holidays!
We make it "Like it never even happened."
NW Genesee County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service
4/6/2017 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of NW Genesee 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 810-732-3298
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 NW Genesee 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 NW Genesee County
SERVPRO of NW Genesee 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.
NW Genesee County Water Damage Event
4/6/2017 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fenton/NW Genesee 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 NW Genesee 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 – 810-732-3298
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 NW Genesee county
SERVPRO of NW Genesee 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.
NW Genesee County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!
4/6/2017 (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 NW Genesee County 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
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today - 810-732-3298
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of NW Genesee County and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
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
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 810-732-3298
24/7 Emergency Service
