Flooded Basements

3/18/2024 (Permalink)

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall.

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

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. 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. 

Why Choose SERVPRO® 

• 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 

Learn About Sandbags

1/30/2024 (Permalink)

Here is what you need to know about flood dams.

When faced with flooding, you may be considering the possibility of a sandbag wall to protect your business. It is recommended that taking steps to mitigate damage before it occurs to protect the property and reduce clean up times and costs by several restoration companies. A flood dam is one way to do this. Here is what you need to know about flood dams.  

Where to Find Them  

Sandbags can be purchased from local hardware stores or landscaping suppliers. During times of severe floods and storms, quantities may be supplied by your local council. You can contact your local council or visit their website for more information.  When there is significant flooding, sandbags may be in limited supply and may only be issued by the State Emergency Service. It is better to be prepared and purchase sandbags prior to or when made aware of a flood event.  

How They Work  

In most cases flood dams work by directing water flow away from the threatened area. Many people choose sandbags because they are easy to build protective barriers. Dry sand is loaded into the bag, and the bag is then folded and placed to create a wall. When the water reaches the wall, it is absorbed by the sand which then becomes heavier, harder to move, and creates a tighter seal.  

Where to Place Them  

When creating a sandbag barrier to protect your business it is recommended to construct it in a way that directs the flow of water rather than trying to block it. This will put less force on the wall and keep the water moving to a safe drainage location. Consider setting the barrier up so that the water flows downhill and away from the property, or into a drainage ditch or open field where it can disperse safely. Sandbags should also be placed over floor drains to prevent backflow of grey water entering the building. They can also be used in front of doorways/roller doors.  

When to Use Them  

One of the best ways to reduce flood damage is to know when to use a flood dam. In most cases you may want to consider the use of sandbags any time you believe flooding may pose a high risk to the property.  

When making a sandbag wall or using another flood dam type to protect your company it is important to understand how they work and where to place them to direct water flow. Using these tools properly may help you reduce the amount of damage your business could face in the next big storm.

Protect Your Pipes from Cold Weather

1/25/2024 (Permalink)

Extremely cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst.

In winter, it is important to take the proper steps now to protect our homes from busted pipes and prevent the stress associated with a major water loss. Extremely cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. In general, pipes are more likely to freeze when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The resulting water damage can be extensive. Outdoor pipes and pipes in unheated areas of the home can freeze if they are not properly insulated or if temperatures are severely cold. 

Outdoor pipes most likely to freeze include: 

• Outdoor hose bibs 
• Swimming pool supply lines 
• Water sprinkler lines 

Pipes in unheated or partially heated areas are also at risk of freezing, including: 

• Basements 
• Crawl spaces 
• Garages 

If your pipes do freeze or burst, immediate action is necessary to prevent additional damage to your property. SERVPRO® has the winter storm experience, expertise, and the resources to remediate damage caused by winter weather.

Unexpected Hazards of a Leaky Roof

1/24/2024 (Permalink)

A leaky roof is a household problem that should never be put off.

As a homeowner, you may be guilty of putting off household problems such as cleaning your appliances and changing your furnace filter. However, a leaky roof is a household problem that should never be put off. Whether your roof is leaking due to storm damage or improper installation, it must be taken care of right away. 

Many homeowners think a leaky roof is due to structural problems, but it can pose safety and health risks to everyone in the household. Consistent water intrusion will work its way down from the attic to the foundation of the house, causing extensive and costly damage. 

Here are some unexpected ways a leaky roof can damage your home: 

• Attic and Ceiling Damage – A leaky roof can damage ceiling paint, causing the ceiling plaster to bubble and expand. The water can also damage paint and plaster on the surrounding walls. You can expect damage to ceiling-mounted lights and fans as well. 
• Fire Hazards – If your electrical wiring is present in your attic or ceiling, a leaky roof can pose a fire risk from shorted wires. It is highly advised to turn off electricity to the area that is affected immediately and have an electrician examine it. 
• Slip and Fall Hazard – A leaky roof can cause water to puddle on the floor. This doesn’t seem like a huge risk, but anyone in your household could slip and fall, potentially hurting themselves. 
• Higher Utility Bills – Water intrusion can be damaging to the insulation in your attic area, potentially causing your home to lose hot and cool air in your home. This issue will result in higher utility bills and no homeowner wants that. 
• Compromised Structure - Prolonged roof leaks lead to wood deterioration and weakening. Rotted roof framing causes serious problems that require help from a professional contractor. Homeowners can also face expensive wood framing repairs if water seeps down into ceiling joists and walls. 

Mold Damage Tips

1/22/2024 (Permalink)

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts.

If you have a mold problem in your home or business, consider the following facts: 

• Significant mold growth can occur in 48-72 hours. 
• Mold may present a greater risk to children, the elderly, and anyone with respiratory problems. 
• A strong, musty odor may indicate hidden mold behind drywall or under carpeting. 

What to Do: 

• Stay out of affected areas. 
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans. 
• Contact SERVPRO® for mold remediation services. 

What Not to Do: 

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold. 
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth. 
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself. 
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold. 

If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO® has the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation. 

How to Put Out an Electrical Fire

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

Electrical failures and malfunctions also account for the highest share of civilian deaths and direct property damage.

Electricity is an essential part of life. From lights to heating systems to TV’s, it provides the energy for most powered objects in a house. Electricity is important to have in every home, but it can also be extremely dangerous. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical failures or malfunctions are the second leading cause of home fire in the United States. Electrical failures and malfunctions also account for the highest share of civilian deaths and direct property damage. 

If an electrical fire were to break out in your home, here are actions that you should do immediately: 

• Cut off the Electricity – If the device that is causing the fire is found and you can safely reach the cord, unplug it. 
• Add Sodium Bicarbonate – If the fire is small, you may put it out by pouring baking soda on it. 
• Don’t Use Water – Using water to put out an electrical fire can put you at risk of being shocked or electrocuted because water is a natural conductor of electricity. Water also may cause the fire to spread by conducting electricity throughout the room and potentially igniting flammable materials. 
• Remove the Oxygen Source – An electrical fire may also be put out by removing the oxygen source with a heavy blanket or clothing if the fire is small. 
• Check Your Fire Extinguisher – Electrical fires are considered a Class C Fire, which means that you will need to have an extinguisher that is appropriate for this type of fire. Residential fire extinguishers are often multi-purpose and labeled as ABC, but it is very important to make sure that it is before using it on an electrical fire. 

We Can Treat Commercial Fire Damage

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

If you experience commercial fire damage, it is crucial to work with professionals who can help you restore your property.

If you experience commercial fire damage, it is crucial to work with professionals who can help you restore your property. However, fire damage can take many different forms. Watch out for the following types of Saginaw commercial fire damage and call the experts as soon as possible to prevent the damage from getting worse. 
 
One of the first and least dangerous types of fire damage is known as Class A fire damage. This kind of damage can occur on any property, and it is often the result of a solid catching fire and spreading throughout. The fire damage from Class A fires has quantifiable sources, and the solids may include rubber, plastic, paper or cloth. This damage may spread from a single source, and it is often easy for individuals to contain it if they are quick and isolate the burning source with a fire extinguisher. 
 
Class B fire damage is another variety, and it is one of the most dangerous types that could occur. Class B fire damage typically results from flammable liquids or from solids that have become liquefied. These are commonly caused by melted plastics and waxes as well as various types of oils, including petrol and grease. While they are often caused by materials similar to cooking oil, cooking oil fires do not often count as Class B fires. These fires often spread quickly and cause tremendous damage because of water displacement issues. 
 
Class C fire damage involves flammable gases and similar substances. These can include fires caused by gas leaks such as hydrogen or propane, or they may be due to deposits of natural gas. They can spread quickly through the property and result in a great deal of sudden surface damage. More often than not, this type of damage is explosive and can cause tremendous destruction to the property's structure. It is one of the most common examples of Saginaw commercial fire damage, and it may result in a long-term loss if not handled quickly. 
 
Finally, Class D fire damage is a common variety of fire damage that occurs in industrial locations. It is typically caused by combustible metals. Some of the most common metals involved include sodium and potassium, and this type of fire is large and encompasses the work area. This damage can result in a variety of harmful ambient effects, so if you experience this sort of damage, it is crucial to have it taken care of as soon as possible. If left unattended, unwanted chemicals may become airborne and result in a variety of problems around the work area.

Invest in Carpet Cleaning for Your Business

1/9/2024 (Permalink)

These tasks will help you keep your carpets looking great, your business running smoothly, and your clients or customers happy.

Keeping your carpets clean will prolong its life. Businesses see a lot of foot traffic and with that comes dirt and debris. Here are a few preventative measures that can be taken to help make your carpets business ready.  

• Using mats on the outside of doors and rugs on the inside can help reduce what is tracked inside. 
• Keep sidewalk areas swept free of dirt, leaves, and grass clippings. 
• Vacuum high traffic areas on a daily basis and all other areas as needed but at least every 2-3 days. 
• Have a specific plan in place for spills or spots when they happen. 
• Have high traffic areas professionally cleaned at least once a month and all other areas every 3 months.   

Doing these tasks will help you keep your carpets looking great, your business running smoothly, and your clients or customers happy. SERVPRO® can help keep your commercial carpets clean. Call us to get a quote today. 

For Immediate Service

1/9/2024 (Permalink)

An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO® provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs. 

• 24-Hour Emergency Service 
• Faster to Any-Sized Disaster 
• Highly Trained Restoration Technicians 
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry 
• Locally Owned and Operated 
• Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment  

In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. With over 2,000 U.S. and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO® is strategically positioned to be faster to any size emergency. An immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. SERVPRO® is available for all fire, water, and storm damage needs. 

Potential Causes of Water Damage in Your Home

1/3/2024 (Permalink)

Several circumstances can be the cause of water damage in your home.

Being a homeowner, you know disasters can happen. Several circumstances can be the cause of water damage in your home. From leaking pipes to defective appliances, it is crucial to recognize potential water damage causes. Below are a few of the causes of water damage in your home. 

• Dishwasher - Your dishwasher can cause water damage if not properly sealed, the latch is broken, or it was loaded with the wrong soap. Make sure any leaks are immediately addressed and your dishwasher is repaired or replaced ASAP. 
• Washing Machine - The same goes for your washing machine. Perform regular checks, inspecting beneath the unit as well as behind it. Make sure all fittings are securely connected, and there are no leaks underneath. If you have an older washing machine that gives you frequent issues, consider replacing it with a more efficient model. 
• Air Conditioner - Your A/C removes moisture from the air and moisture can build up within the unit itself. If not properly drained, that water could slowly leak into your home potentially ruining the flooring and drywall and, in many cases, introducing mold, which is always an emergency water cleanup situation. 
• Leaking Pipes - If you notice water pooling in the kitchen or bathroom, you may be dealing with a loose-fitting pipe under sink. Don’t wait to call a plumber. One leak can be a sign of other leaks in the home, too. 
• Clogged Drains - Clogged drains aren’t just annoying—they also cause water damage (and mold growth) if left unchecked. A clogged toilet can cause water to back up into the shower, sinks, or bathroom floor. Sewer water is extremely dangerous because it contains raw sewage and bacteria, requiring help from water damage cleanup companies. 

Fireplace Safety

1/3/2024 (Permalink)

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive.

In the winter, you may be using your fireplace to heat up your home. Residential fire safety is crucial, especially when you have open flames within your home. It’s important to know that any type of fireplace, whether wood-burning, gas, or electric, creates potential danger to your home and loved ones. 

Fireplace Safety Tips 

• Open a window while the fire is it. 
• Be sure the damper or flue is open before lighting or starting a fire, and until embers have completely stopped burning, to draw smoke out of the house. 
• Check the damper by looking up into the chimney with a flashlight or mirror. 
• Use smaller pieces of dry and well-aged wood for home fire safety, avoiding wet or green wood, which cause more smoke and soot buildup in the chimney. 
• Have a professional check the chimney annually. 
• When cleaning a fireplace, remove ashes from previous fires, keeping levels to 1 inch or less for less smoke 
• Check for animal nests or other blockages that could prevent smoke from escaping. 
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of anything that is potentially flammable. 
• Never leave a fire in the fireplace unattended and be sure it’s completely out before going to bed or leaving the house. 
• Home fireplace safety should include keeping a fire extinguisher on hand. 

Fire and smoke damage is especially destructive. In many instances, your Saginaw property will also suffer from water damage from firefighting efforts. SERVPRO® has specialized equipment, specific training, and certifications that allow us to restore your home to pre-fire condition "Like it never even happened."