Common Signs of Water Damage in Your Home

10/16/2024 (Permalink)

Your home is an investment—protect it by acting quickly when you see the signs of water damage.

Water damage is one of the most common and potentially costly issues homeowners face. Identifying the early signs of water damage can save you time, money, and stress. Whether it's due to a leaky roof, burst pipes, or a hidden plumbing issue, water can wreak havoc if left unchecked. In this blog, we'll explore some common signs of water damage in your home that you should never ignore.

Discoloration on Walls and Ceilings

One of the most obvious signs of water damage is discoloration on your walls and ceilings. If you notice brown, yellow, or copper-colored stains, it could indicate a leak from above or within your walls. These stains are often accompanied by a musty odor, a telltale sign of moisture. Over time, these stains can grow larger and darker, indicating that the water damage is spreading. If you see these spots in your home, it's important to investigate the source and address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Warped or Buckling Floors

Water damage doesn’t just affect your walls and ceilings; it can also impact your flooring. If you notice your hardwood or laminate floors starting to warp, buckle, or feel soft underfoot, this could be a sign of water damage. Excess moisture causes the material to swell, leading to an uneven or bumpy surface. In some cases, the flooring may even separate from the subfloor. Ignoring these signs can result in costly repairs or the need for complete floor replacement, so it’s best to take action quickly.

Peeling Paint or Wallpaper

Another common sign of water damage is peeling paint or wallpaper. When moisture gets behind the walls, it can cause the paint to bubble and eventually peel away. Similarly, wallpaper may start to peel or detach from the wall. This is a clear indicator that water is trapped behind the surface, which could lead to more extensive damage if not addressed. If you spot any peeling, don’t just cover it up—investigate the root cause and fix it to prevent further issues.

Mold Growth

While mold growth might seem like an obvious sign of water damage, it’s not always immediately visible. Mold can grow in hidden areas like behind walls, under flooring, or in crawl spaces. If you notice a persistent musty smell, it’s a good idea to inspect your home for mold. Even small amounts of mold can indicate a larger moisture problem that needs to be addressed. Remember, mold thrives in damp, dark environments, so tackling any water issues promptly can help prevent mold from spreading.

Recognizing the signs of water damage in your home is crucial to maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment. By staying vigilant and addressing issues like discoloration, warped floors, peeling paint, and mold growth, you can prevent minor problems from turning into major headaches. If you suspect water damage in your home, don’t hesitate to contact a professional water damage restoration service like SERVPRO® to assess the situation and provide the necessary repairs. Your home is an investment—protect it by acting quickly when you see the signs of water damage.

The Importance of Personal Protective Equipment During Water Damage Cleanup

6/12/2024 (Permalink)

By wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, workers can minimize the risk of exposure to waterborne contaminants, bacteria, and mold spores.

Water damage can occur suddenly and wreak havoc on homes and properties. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a leaky roof, or a natural disaster, the aftermath of water damage requires prompt and thorough cleanup. However, it's essential to prioritize safety during the restoration process, and that's where personal protective equipment (PPE) comes into play.

Understanding Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment, or PPE, refers to gear worn to minimize exposure to various hazards that may be present during water damage cleanup. This equipment serves to protect workers from potential health and safety risks, including exposure to contaminated water, mold, and other harmful substances.

Key Components of PPE

When it comes to water damage cleanup, several types of personal protective equipment are essential:

Protective Clothing: Waterproof coveralls or disposable suits can shield workers from exposure to contaminated water and debris.

Gloves: Rubber or nitrile gloves provide a barrier against water, chemicals, and other hazardous materials.

Eye Protection: Safety goggles or glasses protect the eyes from splashes, debris, and airborne contaminants.

Respiratory Protection: Depending on the extent of the damage and the presence of mold or other airborne particles, respirators or face masks may be necessary to prevent inhalation of harmful substances.

Footwear: Waterproof boots with slip-resistant soles offer protection against wet surfaces and potential hazards.

Minimizing Personal Risks

By wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, workers can minimize the risk of exposure to waterborne contaminants, bacteria, mold spores, and other harmful substances commonly found in water-damaged environments. This not only protects their health and safety but also reduces the likelihood of secondary issues.

Ensuring Compliance with Safety Standards

In addition to protecting workers, the use of personal protective equipment also helps ensure compliance with industry safety standards and regulations. Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment for their employees, and the proper use of PPE is an integral part of that responsibility.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to water damage cleanup, safety should always be a top priority. By wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment, workers can minimize health risks and ensure a safer and more effective restoration process. At SERVPRO®, we prioritize safety in all our cleanup and restoration efforts, providing our team members with the necessary training and equipment to protect themselves and our clients during every job.

If your home or property has experienced water damage, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Northern Colorado Springs/Tri-Lakes for expert cleanup and restoration services. Our team is here to help you navigate the process safely and effectively, restoring your property to its preloss condition as quickly as possible.

Protecting Homes: The Crucial Role of Insurance in Water Damage Restoration

1/17/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage is a common and costly problem for homeowners, making insurance coverage a critical aspect of the restoration process. Understanding the role insurance plays in water damage restoration can help homeowners navigate the claims process and ensure their homes are restored promptly and efficiently. In this blog, we will explore the significance of insurance in water damage restoration.

Coverage Options

Homeowner's insurance typically covers water damage caused by sudden and accidental incidents, such as burst pipes or appliance malfunctions. However, coverage may vary depending on the policy and the cause of the water damage. It is essential for homeowners to review their insurance policy and understand the specific coverage options related to water damage restoration.

Immediate Response

When faced with water damage, it is crucial to contact the insurance company and file a claim as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require prompt notification to initiate the claims process and expedite necessary repairs. Insurance companies often have preferred vendors or restoration companies they work with, making it easier for homeowners to find reliable and reputable professionals.

Documentation and Evidence

To support the insurance claim, homeowners must document the water damage thoroughly. This includes taking photographs or videos of the affected areas, collecting receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary accommodations, and keeping a record of all communication with the insurance company and restoration professionals. Accurate documentation helps ensure a smooth claims process and proper reimbursement.

Restoration Process

Insurance plays a vital role in the water damage restoration process. Once the claim is filed, an insurance adjuster will evaluate the damage and determine the coverage and reimbursement amount. Restoration professionals work closely with the insurance company to establish a plan for repairs, ensuring all necessary steps are taken to mitigate further damage and restore the property to its preloss condition.

Communication and Advocacy

Throughout the restoration process, homeowners can rely on their insurance company to act as their advocate. Insurance adjusters provide guidance, answer questions, and address any concerns. They collaborate with restoration professionals to ensure all necessary repairs are covered and coordinate payments directly with the restoration company, minimizing financial stress for homeowners.

Deductibles and Coverage Limitations

It is crucial for homeowners to understand their insurance policy deductibles and any coverage limitations related to water damage restoration. Deductibles are the out-of-pocket expenses homeowners must pay before the insurance coverage kicks in. Familiarizing themselves with these details allows homeowners to budget and plan accordingly.

Insurance coverage plays a pivotal role in water damage restoration, providing the necessary financial support for repairs and mitigating the financial burden on homeowners. By understanding their insurance policy, promptly filing claims, documenting the damage, and working closely with restoration professionals and insurance adjusters, homeowners can navigate the restoration process smoothly and ensure their homes are restored to their preloss conditions.

How to prepare your company incase of a storm

3/18/2023 (Permalink)

If you're like most business owners, the last thing on your mind when a storm is approaching is what to do with your company's building. Taking simple steps now can save you thousands of dollars in repairs later. Begin the clean up by assessing the damage made during the storm.

Assess the damage.

After you've made it through the storm, it's time to assess the damage. You should start by looking for signs of water damage and mold in the roof and gutters, basement or crawlspace and electrical system.

It's important to have a cleanup crew ready to go. You don't want to be left scrambling when you need them most, so be sure that they're available and prepared with the right equipment before disaster strikes.

In addition, it's crucial that you have a plan for what happens next, whether it's a cleanup, restoration or repair job so that there are no surprises when the time comes for action.

Remove Furniture and Flooring

Remove furniture and carpeting from the floor that has suffered damage. It's better to have it outside in a safe place than inside where it could be damaged by wind or flooding.

Move computers and file cabinets to higher ground. Turn off air conditioning units if you can't shut off power at the fuse box or circuit breaker panel. This will keep them from running without electricity during an outage, which could cause damage due to extreme heat buildup within the unit itself.

Remove debris from walls and ceiling

You will need to remove any debris from walls, ceilings and floors. You can use a wet/dry vacuum to clean up smaller pieces of wood or other materials. For larger amounts of wood and other building materials, you may want to use a shop vacuum or broom instead.

Dehumidifiers and air movers remove excess moisture from the air more quickly than natural processes do--but they'll cost you money upfront (for both equipment purchase/rental fees and electricity usage). They also require regular maintenance throughout their lifespan (i.e. emptying out collection tanks) so that they operate at peak efficiency levels all year round!

Seal Cracks

Seal up any cracks in your building or siding that may let rain in during future storms. Use a caulking gun to seal cracks and crevices, then paint the caulk onto hard-to-reach places with a paint brush. Check the condition of your roof shingles, gutters, downspouts and gutters. Replace if necessary before storm season begins again.

Prevention is better than cure. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In other words, it's better to do your best to prevent damage than it is to repair the damage after the fact. If you have damage and can't repair it, there are other options for getting back on track as quickly as possible.

When severe weather hits your business, give SERVPRO of Northern Colorado Springs/Tri Lakes a call after the storm passes.

How To Locate Your Main Water Shutoff Valve

12/1/2022 (Permalink)

Locating Your Main Water Shut-off Valve

When you're trying to locate your main water shutoff valve, it can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The good news is that it's easier than you might think! Whether you're trying to find the main water shutoff valve or just do some preventative maintenance, these tips will help you find the right spot in no time at all.

Inside Your Home

The first place to look for the main shut-off valve is on the inside wall of your home. Look for a valve that is located in an accessible spot, such as under the sink or behind the toilet. The valve should be easily accessible and easy to turn. You don't want to have to do any climbing or crawling around just to turn off the water!

Valve in Your Yard

If you're still unsure of where your main water shutoff valve is, there's a quick way to find it. Look for a curb stop valve in your yard. These valves are typically located at the edge of the road and are marked with red handles or labels that say "Curb Stop Valve.”

If you can't locate these markings, ask your neighbors if they know where their main shut-off is located so you can follow them over to their property and see what kind of valve they have.

Basement or Crawl Space

Find a main shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space. Turn off the water supply by closing this valve. You may need to use a wrench, but it varies depending on your plumbing setup. Call a plumber and wait for them to arrive before you do anything else that could cause damage to yourself or your home (e.g., turning on any faucets). Your building may have more than one shutoff valve; if so, turn them all off until you've found and closed the main one!

Call A Plumber

The main water shutoff valve is an important piece of plumbing. This valve controls the flow of water in your home and can help you prevent major leaks. If you don't know where your main water shutoff valve is, we recommend calling a plumber. A good plumber will be able to locate the main water shutoff valve on your property and turn it off quickly so that they can repair any problems in your plumbing system. By turning off this valve, they'll cut off all access to water in the house so that there's no danger of damage or flooding while they're working on repairs.

Blueprints

The best way to know where your main water shutoff valve is is to check your house’s blueprints. If you have them, use a ruler or tape measure to find the exact location of the main shut-off valve. If not, do some searching around your home until you find it. It may be in an unexpected place like the basement or crawl space, but don’t worry! That just means it will take less time than if it were hidden behind other objects like furniture or appliances

It’s important for you to know where the main water shut-off valve is before an accident happens. This will help minimize the damage. If your Colorado Springs home floods, turn off the main shut-off valve and call SERVPRO of Northern Colorado Springs/Tri-Lakes! 

What Is the Best Way To Drain a Flooded Basement?

11/12/2022 (Permalink)

Fixing a Flooded Basement

When you have a flooded basement, it is important to take action as soon as possible. There are several steps that you can take to help mitigate any damage caused by a flooded basement.

Shut Off the Power and the Water Supply

If you have a flooded basement, it's important to turn off the power first. This will prevent electric shock as well as avoid triggering any heating systems. You can also use this time to shut off the water supply in your home by turning off the valve at the top of your main water line or calling an emergency plumber.

Once these two steps are taken care of, you can begin cleaning up your basement and removing all damaged materials from it. Remember not to touch anything with wet hands or feet just yet—you don't want any mold spores spreading throughout your home!

Remove Damaged Items

After your basement has been flooded, it is imperative to remove any damaged items. If you have any items that are salvageable, they should be removed at this time and placed in a safe location. Any items that are not salvageable should be discarded. Do not attempt to repair anything at this point as it could cause further damage to your home and result in mold growth. If you are unsure whether an item can be repaired or if you need to contact an insurance company for advice on how best to dispose of the item, please do so immediately.

Pump Out the Water

To get water out of the basement, use a sump pump. A wet/dry vacuum, shop vac, or bucket and mop will not work effectively to remove excess water from your basement.

A sump pump is designed specifically for pumping water out of your home's lowest level. These pumps are very effective at removing large amounts of standing water efficiently and quickly. They're also easy to install--you can purchase one that's pre-packaged with all necessary attachments or hire an electrician to install it for you.

Use a Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier can help remove moisture from the air and make your basement more comfortable to live in. You may want to place it on one of your basement’s walls or near a window, as long as there is at least four feet of space between the unit and any wall. This will allow adequate airflow around both sides of the device so that it can properly function.

Dealing with the Carpet

Unless you can get your carpeting and padding removed, cleaned and replaced before the water damage sets in, you may want to consider pulling it up. If you don't do this now, it may be too late when the time comes for a replacement. You'll be faced with a choice between discarding your old carpet or paying for expensive restoration work that's still not guaranteed to yield satisfactory results.

The good news is that many types of carpets are designed for easy removal and reinstallation—even if they've been soaked through by flood waters. If yours is one of them, there will probably be some adhesive backing left behind after removal that needs to be scraped off with a putty knife before you can install your new flooring (or roll out an affordable temporary option like paper or plastic). Just remember: even after cleaning and drying has occurred, mold can grow beneath these materials—so make sure they're completely dry before putting anything back down on top of them!

Use Fans

The more fans you have in the area, the faster it will dry. The trick is to put the fans in different areas of your basement so they can reach all its corners and walls. You want a fan blowing on every wall and corner of your basement and any outlets or light switches that may be wet.

If you only have one fan and it isn't powerful enough to dry out your entire basement, then set up two or three smaller appliances—a dehumidifier, an air conditioning unit—and place them around other parts of your home (like a bedroom). This will help draw moisture away from the floor where it's causing damage.

When using multiple devices like this at once, be sure not to overload any circuits because it could cause electrical fires!

Handle it Properly

A flooded basement can cause damage to your home and personal property, if not properly handled. Water can get into the walls, floors, and furniture. This is especially true for older homes where there has been a lot of moisture in the soil around the structure for years. Because of this, mold will grow on any surface that has been exposed to water from a flood.

Mold spores are everywhere—in our homes and outside in nature—and we breathe them in every day without even knowing it. Mold can also cause electrical damage as well as structural damage if left untreated long enough

The best way to handle a flooded basement is by calling a professional at SERVPRO of Northern Colorado/Tri-Lakes, who will pump out the excess water and dry out your home. You can also call us if you have any other questions about how to handle flooding.

What is the Process of Water Cleanup and Restoration?

9/23/2022 (Permalink)

If you’re trying to make sense of water cleanup, the process can seem overwhelming. But don’t worry—there are professionals who can help you!

If you've ever been through a water loss, you know how stressful it can be. You need to deal with insurance companies and contractors, leaving you without the time or energy to manage all of the emotional aspects of dealing with such an event. What's worse is that most people don't really understand the process of water damage restoration until they've experienced it firsthand—and even then it can seem overwhelming! If this describes your situation, read on for a crash course in understanding what happens when your home is damaged by flooding or some other form of a water disaster.

Assess the damage

Water cleanup and restoration begins with assessing the damage and deciding what can be restored. If you are not sure, it's better to contact a professional rather than risk making the situation worse.

Don't underestimate water damage—even if your home doesn't look like it sustained much damage, there could still be hidden issues lurking beneath layers of flooring, insulation, and drywall that need addressing before you move back in.

A reputable restoration company will be able to assess all aspects of your property so they can determine which areas need immediate attention and which ones can wait until after other repairs are made or purchased items have been replaced.

Extract and dry

Extraction is the next step in water cleanup. Water extraction removes water from your home, which allows for faster drying and helps prevent mold growth.

It's important to extract both liquid and water-soaked materials so they can be properly dried out of the air with dehumidifiers. If you have mold or mildew growing on these items, you'll need to clean them separately using an antimicrobial cleaner or disinfectant solution before drying them thoroughly in a well-ventilated area (such as outside).

A wet/dry vacuum is used to remove liquid from carpets, rugs, walls, furniture, and similar items—but it's not always effective at removing all traces of moisture from hard surfaces like wood floors or drywall because it doesn't reach into crevices or corners very well without causing damage to those surfaces themselves.

Cleaning and sanitizing

Next, it is time for cleaning and sanitizing. This process includes removing items that can't be salvaged, cleaning walls and floors, and disinfecting every surface.

The water cleanup and restoration process is a must for any homeowner who has experienced water damage to their home or business property. It's important to understand that this type of cleanup involves professional services from experts with experience in the industry - such as SERVPRO of Northern Colorado Springs/Tri-Lakes.

Restoration

Restoration is the final stage, and it involves returning your home to its pre-disaster condition. Depending on the extent of damage and the type of restoration needed, this can take time. Restoration does not necessarily mean repair or rebuilding; it means bringing back what was lost or damaged through cleaning, repairing, and replacing damaged building materials. A professional flood restoration company like SERVPRO will be able to determine how much work is necessary for your home and guide you through the entire process, from drying out your belongings with dehumidifiers to replacing flooring, drywall, and other affected areas in your home with new ones that match perfectly.

Understand the process to know what to expect when dealing with it.

When you’re dealing with a water emergency and need help, it’s important to understand what to expect from the cleanup process. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), most companies that specialize in water damage restoration have crews that work 24/7 during emergencies like yours. This means you won’t have to wait long before they arrive at your home or business.

If you’re trying to make sense of water cleanup, the process can seem overwhelming. But don’t worry—there are professionals who can help you every step of the way. They’ll be able to assess your situation, extract and dry out any remaining moisture from your home or business, and clean and sanitize everything from walls and floors to high-risk surfaces like carpeting or furniture before restoration begins. Don't wait until it's too late; contact us today!