Timing Is Everything When It Comes to Water Damage

3/6/2023 (Permalink)

If your appliance causes water damage at your home, SERVPRO® of The Woodlands/Conroe can make the damage "Like it never even happened."

Water damage is a constant threat in our homes! Natural disasters and severe weather events can cause structural issues as well as water damage, and even something as simple as an appliance issue can leave you with a big mess on your hands.

Catching these issues quickly can help you avoid lasting damages.

An Appliance Malfunction

No one wants to think about it, but we all have nightmares of our appliances failing and causing a mess in our homes. In fact, it is one of the most common reasons for water damage among households in the Conroe community!

Any appliance that has a water line runs the risk of leaking or suffering some major malfunction.

If you notice a small drip coming from your washing machine or come home to a soaking wet carpet by your utility room, close off your water valves and turn off the power to any appliances near the water. Then give us a call! The faster we can respond to your emergency, the better chance you have of avoiding warped walls and floors and other costly damages.

Severe Weather and Flooding

Water damage can also occur due to any sort of weather event! When a severe storm rolls through town, it can cause flash flooding issues or lead to water backing up into your basement.

One way to avoid this is to invest in a sump pump for your lowest level. A sump pump works to pull water away from your foundation and basement, keeping your floors and walls nice and dry.

In addition, flying debris or a tornado can cause structural damage to your home, which can cause water damage if parts of your home are exposed to the elements.

In this scenario, make sure everyone in your family is safe and accounted for after the storm and then get us on the phone. Moisture can seep into many different areas, and the longer you wait to take action, you run the risk of mold and mildew on top of everything else.

How We Can Help

When it comes to water damage restoration, we know a thing or two! That is why our team should be your first phone call the moment you discover water damage anywhere in your home or property. We will work with you to create a full restoration plan, and then we will hit the road on our way to you.

We work hard to remove all of your fragile possessions and start by drying out as much of the water as we can. Our first goal is to save and recover as much as possible!

Once everything is removed, we bring in industry-leading drying equipment to make sure every inch of water is dried up. After that, we can address the necessary repairs and do whatever is required to return your home back to its pre-disaster state. We have your back no matter what water disaster you are facing.

Water can be very damaging to your home. Contact us for help with your recovery.

Signs of a Sewage Backup

12/9/2022 (Permalink)

If your sink starts to overflow is a sign that you have sewage backup.

Sewage backups happen when the wastewater pipes leading from your house clog or overflow. In many cases, this can lead to severe water damage for your home. If you suspect that your sewage system is backing up, there are a few signs that can help alert you to the problem.

Most Common Type of Sewage Backups

There are many reasons for a sewage backup. The most common cause is clogged drains, particularly in older homes. Overflowing toilets and broken pipes are also common causes of sewage backups. Other causes include underground leaks from running water or rainfall, rotted pipes and cracked pipe joints or walls. Leaking underground sprinkler systems can also be a culprit if they're not maintained properly. Here are some other signs of sewage backup:

Foul odors 

Sewage backups can cause foul odors and overflow. If you notice a sewage backup, it's likely that your toilet will overflow and/or the sink will begin to overflow. Because of this, it's important to check on these areas regularly for any signs of a backup or spillage.

Backed Up Sink Drains

One of the first signs of a sewage backup is an increase in water flowing from your sink drains, especially if it's not clear and you're noticing bubbles or air. You should call a professional plumber as soon as you see this happen, because if you wait too long, it can cause damage to your home.

Water Pooling in Your Yard

If you notice water pooling on your lawn or in your yard, it's likely that there is a sewage backup. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including faulty plumbing lines, blocked sewer lines and clogged drains. The presence of the following signs may indicate that there is a sewage backup:

• Water leaking from the ground
• Water leaking from downspouts
• Water leaking from rain gutters
• Water leaking from the roof
• Water leaking from the foundation
• Water leaking from inside walls

Avoiding Backups

You can avoid most sewage backup issues by checking for them regularly. To check for a leak, you'll need to inspect your plumbing system regularly. Use a flashlight and probe to find signs of water damage or discoloration in the walls or flooring of your basement, especially near pipes and drains.

To check for plumbing issues, you'll need to look at your toilet flange (the part that connects the toilet base with the floor). Look at all sides of it and make sure there is no corrosion on any side of it. If there is corrosion, replace it immediately!

Call the Professionals 

If you notice any of these symptoms, call SERVPRO of The Woodlands/Conroe. We have the equipment and experience to clean your home's sewage backup. Our technicians use the appropriate tools and methods for each job.

If you've noticed a sewage backup in your Conroe,TX home or business, make sure to contact a professional right away. A backup can be dangerous and costly, so call for help as soon as possible.

Do's and Don'ts After Water Damage

11/9/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure to turn off the electricity to avoid shocks or fires.

Tips On Handling the Aftermath Of a Flood Or Water Damage

The moment you realize your home has been damaged by water, it's natural to feel shocked and panicked. Luckily, there are things you can do to help protect your property and get back on track as quickly as possible. Check out this handy guide for tips on handling the aftermath of a flood or other water-related incident:

Do: Shut off the electricity if you can safely do so.

Cut power to wet areas of your home, especially if water is standing in puddles. If you see a wall outlet or switch that is wet or has been submerged in water, shut it off at the main circuit breaker box or fuse box. You should also turn off any appliances that were turned on when your home flooded and are still plugged into an outlet (e.g., a coffee maker).

Don't: Use a plugged-in electrical appliance while standing in water or on a wet floor, even with rubber-soled shoes on.

This may sound like common sense, but we've all done it at some point—you've been cooking dinner, and the phone rings, so you set the pan down just long enough to pick it up. Or maybe you're working on an assignment for class when your computer dies and you feel like running downstairs to charge it for five minutes before going back to work.

Regardless of whether you're using a big appliance or something small (like an alarm clock), plugging in any electrical device while standing in water can pose serious risks of electrocution—and if there's one thing we've learned over our many years of working with H2O and electricity, it's this: water + electricity = bad idea.

Do: Call an electrician right away.

If you have any concerns about the electrical circuits in your home, call an electrician right away. If the power has been turned off and on again, it's critical to inspect for damage and safety issues. The National Fire Protection Association recommends that homeowners do not turn their electricity back on until they've checked for fire hazards like cracks or frayed wires, as well as moisture damage that could cause mold growth in the future.

Do: Mop up all touchable surfaces such as walls and floors to get rid of excess moisture.

This will prevent mold or bacteria growth in your home, which could cause structural problems if left untreated. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner to clean up water damage because it can suck up small particles of dirt and debris. Also, avoid using a power washer to clean up water damage as this may spread the problem into other areas of your home if not done correctly.

Don't: Go into rooms with standing water while barefoot.

You should also avoid going into any rooms with standing water, areas that have wet carpets or floors, and any area that's damp. The same goes for walls. If you find yourself entering an area and feel as though there may be moisture in the air and on your skin, don't stop to check—just leave immediately.

In conclusion, water damage can be traumatic. However, the most important thing is to not panic and act quickly. You should always shut off the power when you see signs of water damage so that you don’t get electrocuted by an electrical appliance that’s been submerged in water. If you have any doubts about whether your electrical system has been damaged or not, call an electrician right away.

3 Tips for Preventing Plumbing Problems

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Regular inspection is key to finding and stopping a plumbing issue

Three Ways To Avoid Plumbing Issues

Unwanted water, in the form of natural disasters or plumbing problems, can cause major damage. As a business owner, you strive to keep your building in good condition by performing regular maintenance. Water issues can quickly become costly repairs; therefore, it’s wise to be proactive about preventing issues. Here are three tips for preventing plumbing complications.

1. Delegate
One of the best things you can do as a manager or business owner is delegate responsibilities. Preventing major water damage involves ongoing inspection and maintenance. You simply don’t have time to handle this job on your own. Hire a maintenance manager and staff to oversee all items related to facility maintenance. Having individuals assigned to prevent plumbing problems will save your The Woodlands, TX, company money in the long run.

2. Educate
Once you’ve hired a maintenance manager or team, it’s important to provide training and education. Employees must know the common areas to check for plumbing issues and understand that it’s critical to fix a broken pipe, check for water spots and investigate low water pressure. All of these instances, and more, indicate a potential water problem.

3. Inspect
Regular inspection is key to finding and stopping a plumbing issue. Some of the areas that should be regularly inspected include:

• Toilets, sinks and showers
• Underneath sinks
• Water heaters
• Ceilings
• Water main
• Anywhere with exposed water pipes
• The ground outside, especially near sewer pipes

Your maintenance staff should be trained to frequently inspect these areas, as well as any other plumbing areas specific to your property. It’s also wise to have the contact information available for a water damage restoration company. Trained restoration specialists are Faster to Any Size Disaster and can restore your property quickly and correctly.
Plumbing problems can quickly cause expensive water damage. Be proactive in preventing issues by delegating responsibilities, educating employees, and inspecting your building on a regular basis.

5 Ways To Prevent Frozen Pipes

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Insulate your pipes

Make Sure Your Business Is Ready For Cold Season

The snow and holidays of winter can make it a fun season for many, but it can be less so for business owners with unprepared plumbing. Indeed, freezing temperatures are often a leading cause of broken pipes. For this reason, you should take steps now to make sure your commercial property is ready for the cold season. If you want to reduce the chances of needing the help of a water damage remediation expert, consider the following ways you can prepare.

1. Keep the Water On

Even if it might cost you more with energy bills this winter, spending the extra money can be worth it. By keeping some faucets turned on, you can allow water to continuously flow. This can prevent lines from freezing.

2. Turn Up the Thermostat

In order to keep pipes warm, you need to keep the building warm. Even when you are not open, make sure you keep the thermostat set above 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Close the Doors and Windows

Another way to minimize your risk of an expensive water cleanup is by ensuring you close doors and windows. This includes any basement or garage doors as well. If there is anywhere frigid air can seep in, it can lead to one of the most common causes of frozen pipes which often results in water damage.

4. Open Backroom Storage and Cabinets

While you are closing your doors, you may want to open backroom storage and cabinets that surround plumbing. Doing this can allow warm building air to find its way into the enclosures.

5. Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most straightforward ways you can prevent freezing of your pipes is by making sure you insulate them well. A good way to do this is by installing heat tape. You can ask a professional if you need assistance.
When it comes to preventing frozen pipes and the subsequent water damage that can come with them, there are several things you can do. With a little planning, you can rest easy knowing your business is ready for the winter.

Tips for Cleaning Up Water Damage From Broken Pipes

2/25/2022 (Permalink)

Water-damaged flooring in a Conroe, TX property.

Water Cleanup Process

Water damage is a fact of life for homeowners. No matter how hard you work to maintain your property, eventually broken pipes, backed-up drains, or some other form of water damage will require cleanup. When the time comes and you have to deal with a minor emergency that has left your home in Conroe, TX, a little waterlogged, you need to know how to respond decisively to prevent continuing damage. Follow these tips to make sure you get the water cleanup process handled quickly.

• Turn off the water to prevent further flooding
  
• Remove dry and undamaged possessions from the affected area
  
• Contact a restoration cleaning service with water-damage certifications
  
• File a claim with your insurance company for covered damages
  
• Keep kids and pets away from the area
  
  

If it is possible to safely turn off electricity in the flooded rooms, it can be a good idea, especially if you have appliances plugged in and underwater. Make sure you don’t step into standing water where powered appliances are submerged to minimize the risk of shock.

Working With Water-Damage Specialists

Sometimes, homeowners are tempted to attempt cleanup themselves. While there are a number of home improvement and repair projects that can be realized efficiently and inexpensively with a do-it-yourself approach, it’s important to understand that water clean-up from broken pipes and other plumbing emergencies really needs a professional approach.

When water damages a home, specialized tools are needed to properly affect cleanup. These tools allow for the drying and cleaning of home furnishings and building features alike, and they work more thoroughly and quickly than options available to homeowners. Quick action is essential to minimize the damage from water during emergencies. Specialists also carry certifications for mold abatement and other water-related cleanup protocols.

Wrapping Up

Water damage from broken pipes and other home emergencies can cause serious problems for homes and homeowners in Conroe, TX. Make sure you work with specialists in water cleanup to preserve and clean your property when you have residential water emergencies.

The Rising Waters: Toilet Overflow and What To Do About It

1/30/2022 (Permalink)

Sewer damage in New Caney, TX, can be incredibly problematic.

Sewer damage in New Caney, TX, can be incredibly problematic, and quickly getting the situation under control is often imperative. You should know what can cause a flooded toilet and what you should do after it occurs to quickly clean up and restore your home to its natural state.

Understanding Why Toilet Overflow Occurs

Unfortunately, this is not an uncommon issue in homes. However, when you know what the potential causes are, it puts you in a position to take better preventative measures. The following may cause toilet overflow in your home:

• A drain line becomes clogged.
  
• The septic field is not percolating.
  
• Sewer damage occurs somewhere in the system’s lines due to issues such as tree roots or foreign objects causing a clog.
  
• A low flow toilet is not able to handle the demands of your household.
  
• The trap between the drain line and the toilet bowl becomes blocked.
  

Cleaning Up Toilet Overflow

The first step is to get rid of any water that may have accumulated in the affected space. Once this is gone, use low-suds soap and warm water to thoroughly clean all elements of the space. Once this is done, use a disinfectant and go over all of the surfaces you have cleaned to reduce any lingering contaminants and impurities.

Once you complete the cleanup process, make sure that you are taking steps to prevent this problem from recurring. Be mindful of how much toilet paper you are using, never flush feminine hygiene products and make sure that small objects do not accidentally get into your toilet and flushed down.

With this information about toilet overflow, you can be better prepared to deal with this type of situation. Should you experience sewer damage, it is generally a good idea to reach out to a sewage company to ensure that the restoration process is done safely and correctly.

A Water Hammer Can Cause a Pipe Break in Your Home

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage after a pipe break in The Woodlands, TX.

What Is a Water Hammer?

A water hammer is more than just noisy. It beats away at your plumbing day after day, shaking your pipes and looking for a weak spot. In time, it will find that weak spot and cause a pipe to burst. There are several things you can do to deal with your water hammer and minimize the chances of a pipe break.

1. Call the water department. If you think that your water pressure is dangerously high, complain. Perhaps they have some way to lower the water pressure entering your home. After all, you can’t be the only one in The Woodlands, TX with this problem.

2. Secure all the pipes in your home. The sound made by a water hammer is the vibration of your plumbing. That sound may not seem like much, but the motion behind it can loosen plumbing joints over a long period. The loose pipes may require tightening pipe hangers, installing new ones and placing shims.

3. Solve the water hammer problem with plumbing modifications. Water hammer arrestors can reduce the water hammer effect. Pressure reduction devices can lower the water pressure in your home. Install these, and you may never know what it is like to fix a broken pipe.

Be Prepared for the Day a Pipe Break Occurs
If a pipe breaks in your home, there is no telling when or where it will happen. All you can do is be prepared. Just know that there are qualified water damage experts ready to help. They are just a phone call away.

What To Do After a Flood

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Water cleanup in The Woodlands, TX.

What to Do in the Event of a Flood

Flooding from broken pipes in The Woodlands, TX can cause massive amounts of damage if not cared for properly. Water damage can ruin flooding and sheetrock, leading to extensive repairs that may be expensive. The longer water is left unattended, the more damage it can cause, so the water cleanup process should be done quickly and efficiently.

Assessing the Damage

Damage from a broken pipe may be limited to a single room or, if left undetected for several days, could spread throughout an entire floor. To understand what exactly needs to be done, it is important to remove any remaining water with the help of a sump or a trash pump and then thoroughly examine the damaged area. There are two types of damage to look for:

1. Water damage. This type of destruction involves any damage to the structure of your home from the flood. It includes ruined wood flooring, carpet, sheetrock, and insulation, among other structural components.

2. Secondary damage. Unlike other types of damage, this type of problem may not be visible without a thorough investigation. Warm, moist environments can become a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria, so these fungi and pathogens thrive under wet carpet and in porous materials. In many cases, removing mold is more difficult than repairing structural damage.

Calling a Professional

Not only is repairing and restoring your home from flooding often difficult and time-consuming but fixing secondary damage often requires the help of a qualified restoration company. Household cleaning products may not be strong enough to remove mold, and thoroughly disinfecting the area is necessary for safety. Call for help quickly to reduce the amount of damage caused by flooding.

In many cases, having broken pipes is difficult to handle on your own. After assessing the damage, calling a company for the water cleanup process may be a good idea. To reduce the impact of water damage, the issue should be dealt with quickly and efficiently.

Water Damaged Electronics: Restoration Tips

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Remember to never use any devices that have come into contact with water.

Tips for Restoring Water-Damaged Electronics

If a pipe suddenly burst inside of your Rayford, TX, commercial building recently, you may have experienced some water damage that unfortunately resulted in flooded electronics. What can you do to salvage them? Follow these three important tips to start your safe cleaning and restoration plan.

1. Contact Manufacturers

If you are unsure as to what you can do to clean or repair damage to a specific appliance, it is always best to contact the product’s manufacturing company. Many items require specialized reconditioning or replacement that someone from that company needs to handle. Safety should always be your main priority, so it is best to not go it alone where any renovations are concerned.

2. Clean and Restore What You Can - With Help

There may be some less dangerous items at your place of business that you can attempt to clean or repair with help from restoration specialists, especially if the manufacturer said it was safe to do so. You can also do online research to find advice on handling electronic damage after water contact, but be sure that the sources are trustworthy before taking their advice to heart. Finding and comparing a few quality resources is always a good idea.

3. Always Stay Safe

Remember to never use any devices that have come into contact with water. Avoid touching or operating all flooded electronics until a manufacturer, water damage technician or other trusted professional has told you that the coast is clear for you to be near them. As important as your expensive business equipment is to you and your staff, everyone’s well-being comes first.

If you use the information above, you will be well on your way to creating a plan to save as many of your business’s flooded electronics as possible. You will also be able to keep yourself and your workers out of harm’s way.

Four Steps to Determining Whether You Can Save Your Carpet

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Air mover after water damage on basement in The Shenandoah, TX

Does My Carpet Have To Be Replaced?

One of the most common questions asked after flooding in Shenandoah, TX, is, "Does my carpet have to be replaced?" After your home has been affected by a pipe break, you'll need to handle some repairs and assessments before you can determine whether the carpet can stay.

Step One: Contact a Professional

There are many reasons to work with a restoration professional immediately. These experts have the equipment best suited to facilitating quick and comprehensive recovery from flooding. In many cases, your insurance company may prefer that you work with professionals and may not provide coverage if you didn't respond to the pipe break appropriately. Water damage restoration professionals can provide you with expert advice concerning water exposure to your home and furnishings.

Step Two: Consider the Length of Exposure

If the materials and furnishings in your home have been wet for more than 72 hours, it is probably best to replace porous items. For example, any padding under your flooring could be harboring mold spores. It is very difficult to thoroughly dry and clean padding, so it will also need to be replaced.

Step Three: Identify the Type of Flood Water

Did the water come from an interior pipe or did it back up from the sewage system? If the water came from a clean water source, such as a kitchen sink, there's much less risk than if contaminated water affected your home. If you aren't certain in your assessment of the type of water, ask a qualified professional for testing.

Step Four: Carefully Weigh Your Options

As restoration options are presented to you, consider time, inconvenience, cost, and safety. For example, if you have to replace the padding, you may need to spend a lot of time carefully removing the carpet so that you don't damage it. Before you handle either, you'll need to be sure you aren't exposing your home or family to mold and contaminants.

Experts in Shenandoah, TX, are available to provide answers and advice. It's generally best to call them immediately after discovering your home has been affected by a pipe break.

How To Clear Drains Without Causing Damage

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

It is important to use a clogged drain cleaner rated for the type of pipes in your home.

Drain Cleaning Treatments

A clogged drain or pipe blockage can cause sewer water to back up into a residence in New Caney, TX. Find out more about regular maintenance or occasional drain cleaning treatments to keep gray water and solid waste flowing down lines and avoid the need for professional sewer damage restoration.

Do Regular Enzymatic Treatments
Drain cleaners made with bacterial cultures and concentrated enzymes break down organic substances. These treatments should not damage drain lines. Here are several general guidelines for using an enzymatic drain cleaner:

• Pour the recommended amount of cleaner down the drain
  
• Allow it to sit for a few hours before running faucets or flushing toilets
  
• Repeat usage as needed until the drainage is clear
  
• Do maintenance treatments on a weekly or monthly basis
  
  

Follow the instructions for the brand of cleaner you choose to use. This treatment is better for clog prevention than clearing lines that are slow or blocked and causing backups and sewer damage.

Use Chemical Cleaners Rated for Pipe Materials
It is important to use a clogged drain cleaner rated for the type of pipes in your home. Caustic cleaners may damage certain types of metal or PVC pipes. Acidic cleaners are acceptable for newer plastic pipes or metal pipes that are not made of galvanized or stainless steel or aluminum chrome. Check the formula of foaming cleaners to eliminate buildup on the sides of pipes.

Contact a Plumber to Clear Blocked Drains
If you do not want to risk damaging blocked drain lines, schedule a professional sewage cleaning. A plumber can clear clogs and identify underlying causes such as tree roots intruding into lines.
Enzymatic treatments reduce the buildup of biofilm and degradable materials. Chemical cleaners can clear slow lines but may push clogs deeper. If a sewer line gets blocked, it is time to call a plumber. A clogged drain can cause water to back up into a residence in New Caney, TX, which may cause sewer damage.

How To Prepare Your Office for Spring Thaws

2/9/2021 (Permalink)

Have your roof inspected, as bad weather can cause tiles to fall off and allow rainwater inside.

When spring arrives, causing snow and ice to melt, office flooding becomes a serious concern. Melted precipitation flowing into your business can trigger significant damage. In particularly bad instances, services from a commercial water restoration professional become necessary. Here are a few nuggets of wisdom regarding the peril associated with this troublesome climatic change.

Dangers of Spring Thaws

The seasonal shift between winter and spring comes with dangers that extend beyond water damage. Some include:

• Cracking bodies of water where people traverse
  
• Freezing rain that causes slips on driveways and sidewalks
  
• Expanding potholes that make driving treacherous
  
  

Of all the hazards associated with this change in weather, the possibility of a spring flood is the one with the capacity to wreak havoc in your office.

Preparation Tips for Spring Thaws

Reduce the odds of seasonal flooding impacting your work site by taking the following actions. Shovel around your building so that thawed snow drains away from the entrance. Additionally, make sure there are no obstacles that could steer water into unwanted territory.
Have your roof inspected, as bad weather can cause tiles to fall off and allow rainwater inside. When removing snow from your building, be certain that you do so as safely as possible.
Ice does not always thaw at the same rate. Because of this, you may have a frozen pipe even as flowers bloom. The threat of a plumbing burst remains real. Install a sump pump in your office’s basement ahead of a crisis. Also, be sure to elevate electronic equipment and documents whenever possible.
Sensors can be installed to send alerts as soon as water becomes detected. These protective systems may also qualify you for a discount on flood insurance.
Preparing for office flooding in Rayford, TX, is critical to reducing the possibility of watery destruction. Do everything you can to keep seasonal runoff from invading your workspace.

3 Causes of Basement Floods (and How To Fix Them)

12/30/2020 (Permalink)

Basement flooding in The Woodlands, TX

Here Are Three Common Causes Of Basement Flooding

Most residents of The Woodlands, TX, will deal with a basement flood at least once in their lives. Depending on what’s in your basement, flooding can cause all sorts of problems, from destroying your heirloom Christmas tree skirt to shorting out your deep freezer. Unfortunately, once a basement has flooded, it’s likely to flood again, so it’s best to address the cause of the problem head-on. 

Improper Sealing
Due to the nature of basements, basement floors and walls must be properly sealed against incoming water. These seals are usually installed when the basement is constructed. If your floor or wall seals are faulty, water can seep through, especially after heavy storms when the ground is saturated. The good news is that the floor and walls can be re-sealed.

Poorly Planned Drainage System
This extremely common basement flood culprit of basement flooding is easy to remedy. Downspouts are meant to divert rainwater away from the foundation of the house. Occasionally, downspouts are placed too close to the basement wall, or water from the downspout drains toward the basement wall. This puts too much pressure on your weeping tile and leads to leaks. Extend downspouts to at least six feet away from the basement wall in a place where they can drain away from the house.

Blocked Gutters
If your gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, they can overflow. This creates a waterfall effect right next to your basement wall, causing leaks. The fix is easy: grab a ladder and clean out your gutters. Of course, if your gutters fill frequently, consider switching to larger gutters or installing gutter guards.
A basement flood is rarely a one-time occurrence. The next flood could require costly restoration work, and water damage is often a major red flag to buyers and insurance companies. Find out what’s causing your basement to flood and fix the problem right away.

How to Care for Wet Items After a Flood

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Furniture damaged by water in Shenandoah, TX

How to Care for Wet Items After a Flood

Having water in home always makes for stress and anxiety. Even a moderate amount of water can ruin personal belongings, building materials and furniture. With the right response, however, you can salvage these items and preserve your home. Following some basic guidelines can give you peace of mind and spare you a lot of heartaches.

Get Rid of the Water
Before you can care for the damaged items, you need to stop the source of the flooding. A plumber can help you identify where the water is coming from and can also repair or replace a broken pipe or other related issues. You should then do the following:

• Extract any standing water from the floor.
  
• Extract water from furniture.
  
• Contact a professional flood removal company to help with extensive flooding.
  
  

Tearing out Damaged Materials
You won't be able to save all items when there is water in home. Materials such as drywall and wood could become saturated with water and beyond repair. A restoration company in Shenandoah, TX, can help you remove these materials and replace them.

Caring for Clothing and Furniture
If clothes and furniture come into contact with floodwater, thorough dry cleaning can help you spare them. This process will not only help remove odors but should also ward off mold growth.

Carpet Cleaning
Carpets can bear the brunt of flooding. Along with thoroughly removing water from the carpet, technicians will dry and sanitize it.

Electronics Cleaning
If any electronics become wet from the flood, make sure you turn off the electricity in your home or at least unplug the devices. Do not attempt to turn them on. Carefully use a cloth to dry items such as computers. However, you should let a professional clean the insides of these items.
If you discover water in home, there are ways to salvage most of the items. Follow these steps and call upon an experienced professional to clean up, rebuild and restore your house.

3 Types of Contaminated Flood Water

10/12/2020 (Permalink)

A spill from the dishwasher could be considered Category 2

While all types of floods can potentially cause massive amounts of property damage, it's still important for you to be aware of the type of contaminated water you're currently dealing with. You must handle each type of contaminant differently in order to be successful. Read on if your home in Egypt, TX, is currently suffering from a residential flood.

Types of Flood Water

There are three main types of floods, each categorized by the types of contaminants present in the water:

Category 1: Also known as a clean water flood, this type of floodwater is the least dangerous. Clean water floods are typically caused when a supply line bursts, flooding the home with contaminant-free, non-toxic water. Theoretically, this water is safe for human consumption, but you should still never attempt to drink it.

Category 2: Category 2 floods contain slightly more contaminated water. They are usually a result of a flooding or overflowing household appliance, such as a washing machine or a dish washer.

Category 3: Category 3 floods, also known as black water floods, are extremely dangerous. They're categorized by the presence of biohazards, such as raw sewage and human/animal fecal matter. They're typically caused by toilet back flow, or sewage overflow. You should never attempt to remediate a Category 3 flood by yourself; always contact remediation experts for assistance.

Preventing Residential Floods
Residential floods are relatively simple to prevent, as long as you remain vigilant and stay on top of the proper preventative and protective measures. Prevent toilet back flow by never flushing anything down your toilets that your pipes can't handle. Hire professionals to routinely perform maintenance and inspections on your sewer lines.
Contaminated water floods can cause a lot of problems for your home in the form of water damage, mold growth and other types of disasters. Your best course of action is to contact flood remediation experts to help solve the issue quickly and effectively.

What To Know About Secondary Damage

5/22/2020 (Permalink)

Pipe leak caused mold to grow on a wall

Here Are A Few Things You Should Know About Secondary Damage

Any time you have water damage in your The Woodlands, TX, home, there’s a chance that secondary damage could also pose a risk. From what this damage is to types of damage, including black mold, here are a few things you should know.

1. What It Is

A secondary type of damage is any damage that occurs as a result of damage related to the initial problem. For example, if a pipe breaks the carpet could get soaked. This is a primary damage. However if the soaked carpet is not dried and the sub-floor warps, the damage to the sub-floor would be considered secondary. Secondary damage usually occurs if the initial damage is extremely severe, incorrectly cleaned up, or damage that is not cleaned up in a timely manner.

2. Types of Damage

There are a few types of damage that often fall into the secondary category. These include warped wood, cracking in sheet-rock or plaster, peeling vinyl, cracked tile, water stains, black mold, and high humidity problems as excess water evaporates. If the water damages has created a weakness in the exterior of the home, such as the roof, you may also experience problems from high winds or additional weather.

3. What To Do

If your home has suffered any type of water damage it’s best to contact a water damage restoration service for help with cleanup and repairs. These professionals can act quickly, are trained in the proper cleanup procedures, and have the tools necessary to safely do the job. Correctly handling the situation can help you prevent additional secondary damages.

It’s important to remember that Secondary damage happens as a result of water damage. It can include things such as warped flooring or black mold. If you have water damage it’s important to call a restoration service, and make repairs as quickly as possible. Doing so can help you mitigate additional damages to your home.

Upgrade Your Commercial Restroom and Save Water

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

A modern, updated commercial bathroom is a win-win for nearly everyone

New technologies improve on the old ways of doing things nearly every day. These upgrades add value to a company by increasing convenience, adding safety, and promoting a healthier planet. When it comes to water issues, new products have the ability to reduce your water usage. If your company located in Porter Heights, TX, has ample water resources, it is still a good idea to cut down on usage to lower your water bill. Also, newer products are also less likely to malfunction and cause localized flooding or leaking problems on your property. Even so, partnering with a local water mitigation franchise is the proven way to minimize the damage caused by water concerns.

Restroom Upgrades

A commercial restroom is a promising area to install a water upgrade. Here are a few newer products and technologies that can improve the look, function, and reliability of a bathroom:

• Install toilets that use less water per flush
• Replace faucet aerators with high efficiency ones
• Put in touch-free faucets
• Install water-free urinals

All of these innovations will lower your water usage and reduce your utility rates. Many of these technologies have been around for years, but incremental improvements have made the products more reliable and more acceptable to customers. With lower levels of water being used, there is also a reduced chance of extensive water damage caused by a breakdown.

Bathroom Benefits
A modern, updated commercial bathroom is a win-win for nearly everyone. Your customers and employees are happy with the added convenience, and business owners see lower costs over time. New equipment can result in fewer toilet overflows and liability issues from patrons slipping on water on the floor. In many cases, custodial costs are reduced as well. The same benefits with water issues can be realized in other areas of the company, from improved irrigation systems to the planting of native, drought-resistant plants for landscaping.