Causes & Categories of Water Damage

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

An old poem has the line, “water, water, everywhere”. When you need to say this in your house, you know there is trouble. You may be looking at water damage. There are several different possible causes of water damage.

Causes can include:

Leaky dishwashers or washing machines
Clogged pipes
Leaking roofs
Broken toilet pipes
Heavy rain
Water heater leaks
The amount of water damage depends on the amount of water and on the cause of the damage.

It is also important to start the cleanup as soon as possible. The longer your home or business is water-logged, the more damage.

Categories of Water Damage:

Clean water. It might come from an overflowing sink or a broken appliance. The water does not pose a threat to people. Keep in mind that any water will become contaminated after it stops flowing.
Gray water. This water is contaminated from the get-go. It comes from broken toilets or sump pumps. It might not look dirty, or it might be brown.
Blackwater. Like gray water, it might not look dirty. One major source of black water is broken sewage pipes. Another source is any water that has been standing still.

Poor Drainage Caused Water and Mold Damage

2/11/2023 (Permalink)

Backed-up drainage on a roof caused this Winter Haven patio to flood.

SERVPRO of Winter Haven was called in to clean up the aftermath! The homeowner was extremely happy to have our crew come into her home, extract the water, remediate the mold, and remove all the damaged building materials.

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is locally owned and operated by Chris and Jennifer Brill in Polk County, Florida. In addition to bio-hazard clean-up, we provide full restoration services for damages resulting from water, fire, and mold. From clean-up to full rebuild services.

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is a licensed contractor in the state of Florida.

At SERVPRO of Winter Haven, we make it "Like it never even happened." Call us today! 863-551-5004

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is a Licensed Bio-Hazard Clean-Up Company

2/6/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is qualified to perform bio-hazard clean-ups and has met training, documentation, and equipment requirements to both clean-up and transport bio-hazard materials. When choosing a partner for crime-scene or bio-hazard clean-up make sure they have these permits. It is a State of Florida requirement and assures you that you are dealing with a company that understands the special requirements and risks associated with blood-borne pathogens.

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is locally owned and operated in Polk County, Florida in addition to bio-hazard clean-up, we provide full restoration services for damages resulting from water, fire, and mold from clean-up to full rebuild services. We are Florida State Licensed Building Contractor CBC-1259536. At SERVPRO of Winter Haven, we make it "Like it never even happened."

Where it Shows Up

2/6/2023 (Permalink)

Mold needs certain conditions to thrive and spread. Your building may be at risk for mold growth in places such as attics, bathrooms, and around appliances. The following environments and situations make mold a threat:

High humidity
Poor airflow
Leaky or broken pipes
Poor drainage
When it Can Appear
Flooding is one of the most common precursors to mold's arrival. Whether it's a major flood from a sudden wave of water into your building, or whether a slow leak causes water damage over months or years, mold will likely show up soon after you see water. It usually only takes 24 to 48 hours for mold to form after a water loss.

What You Can Do to Avoid It
You must be diligent when it comes to mold prevention. You should first check your plumbing system and make sure you don't have any broken pipes. It's essential to repair any issues as soon as possible. Also, inspect your roof for leaks, and ensure that rain gutters and downspouts are diverting water away from the building.

If You Have a Problem
If you do discover mold in the building, call a professional mold removal company right away. Technicians have the training and equipment to remove mold from the premises. The company will also tear out damaged materials and restore your workplace.
Mold will quickly follow water damage. Be aware of these facts so you can make your facility free of mold.

Why to Choose SERVPRO of Winter Haven

2/6/2023 (Permalink)

When water damages your home or business time is critical, and shopping for a contractor is not a luxury you can afford. Owners Chris and Jennifer Brill of SERVPRO of Winter Haven were recently interviewed and asked about tips on how to select a water restoration contractor. Click the link to see what his suggestions are:

SERVPRO of Winter Haven

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is always here to help, and if you feel the video is helpful, please "like it".

If you have any questions regarding any issue regarding water, fire, mold, or bio-hazard clean-up don't hesitate to contact us at 863-551-5004

All SERVPRO franchises are independently owned and operated, let us show you we strive to be the Premier Restoration Company in Central Florida

Leaking Roof Causing Water Damage

2/6/2023 (Permalink)

If you have a roof leak it is very important to get a professional company out to address the damage and either fix it or tarp it. If the leak continues it can turn into more than just a roof leak. The roof leaked and continued to leak and eventually caused the drywall ceiling to collapse. The customer was overwhelmed and needed help. SERVPRO was able to go out and take it off their hands. They were very pleased with our services.

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is a Florida State licensed Certified Building Contractor, Mold Remediator, and Mold Assessor. We are IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified in Fire/Water/Mold clean-up & restoration. Call us at 863-551-5004, we are always here to help

Residential Water

2/6/2023 (Permalink)

Often times the damage is caused when a problem goes without being noticed right away. Time is of the essence when you are dealing with water damage, and the key is to act fast! Not only can the water ruin your carpets, ceiling, and furniture, but it can also destroy precious family possessions, important documents, and irreplaceable, personal items.

You may need to vacate your home during the repairs, and the disruption of your normal routine could really have a huge impact on your way of life. Having to stay in a hotel or at a friend’s home isn’t the way you want to spend your week, or sometimes, weeks.

Even if the issue is handled swiftly, water damage has been known to wreak havoc even months down the road. Often times the leak isn’t noticeable and maybe behind (link to pipe section here) a wall or in the ceiling.

The longer a leak goes unnoticed, the more money it can cost you to get fixed. Moving quickly also increases the chance that your personal belongings can be saved or restored.

Not only is important to start the process as quickly as possible for your tangible items, but it is also for the things you can’t see right away. Damage inside your walls or ceiling can absolutely affect your health and is something that has serious repercussions. Withstanding water and wet items comes mold.

For all of your water-related issues call SERVPRO of Winter Haven at 863-551-5004. Let the pros handle it and make it "Like it never even happened."

Seeking Water Damage Restoration in Winter Haven?

2/2/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Makes Water Damage Repairs in Winter Haven and adjacent areas

When it comes to effectively repairing water damage, drying is critical. Without being able to dry the impacted area effectively, you cannot adequately repair damages, particularly in humid climates like in Winter Haven and the rest of Florida.

Water damage restoration for your home means effectively drying the areas while repairing the house. One way that technicians approach drying the impacted area is to break up your home into 'drying zones.' This helps isolate the areas requiring attention. Each drying zone may have different amounts or types of equipment due to varying conditions. For instance, some areas may not need as many air movers or dehumidifiers.

There are two types of drying systems found in drying zones:

Open drying system: doors and windows are open, allowing fresh air to act as a facilitator in the drying process.
Closed drying system: IICRC certified technicians close off the area with doors, windows, and heavy plastic to create an optimal drying environment.
Contact SERVPRO of Winter Haven at (863) 551-5004 for 24/7 assistance. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Emergency READY

2/2/2023 (Permalink)

With each year, many people resolve to better themselves or some part of their life. This year, plan to be READY. No one ever plans on a disaster, but you can prepare for it. The SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile® (ERP) will help ensure you are “Ready for whatever happens” this year and years to come. In the event of an emergency, the ERP can help minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action in place for your facility. The ERP is a comprehensive document containing critical information about your business, including emergency contacts, shut-off valve locations, and priority areas. The ERP also establishes SERVPRO® of Winter Haven Franchise Professional as your disaster mitigation and restoration provider, giving you access to over 50 years of experience and a System of more than 1,700 Franchisees strong. The ERP is a no-cost assessment; all it requires is a little time, making it a great value that could save you time and money in the future. By downloading the free SERVPRO® READY App, this information is stored electronically and can be accessed using your mobile device putting help at your fingertips. Preparation is the key to making it through any size disaster, whether it is a small water leak, a large fire, or an area flood. Having a plan in place may help minimize the amount of time your business is inactive and get you back in the building following a disaster. Don’t wait until disaster strikes—resolve to be READY. Call SERVPRO® of Winter Haven Franchise Professionals to establish your Emergency READY Profile® and be “Ready for whatever happens” in 2022.

Hurricanes

1/9/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricanes

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. Potential threats from hurricanes include powerful winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, tornadoes, and landslides. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The Pacific hurricane season runs from May 15 to November 30. Hurricanes:

Can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans.
Can affect areas more than 100 miles inland.
Are most active in September.
IF YOU ARE UNDER A HURRICANE WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY
Determine how best to protect yourself from high winds and flooding.
Evacuate if told to do so.
Take refuge in a designated storm shelter, or an interior room for high winds.
Listen for emergency information and alerts.
Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.
Prepare NOW
Know your area’s risk of hurricanes.
If you are at risk for flash flooding, watch for warning signs such as heavy rain.
Practice going to a safe shelter for high winds. The next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room in a sturdy building on the lowest level that is not subject to flooding.
Based on your location and community plans, make your own plans for evacuation or sheltering in place.
Become familiar with your evacuation zone, the evacuation route, and shelter locations.
Gather needed supplies for at least three days. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets.
Keep important documents in a safe place or create password-protected digital copies.
Protect your property. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves in the plumbing to prevent backups. Consider hurricane shutters. Review insurance policies.
When a hurricane is 36 hours from arriving
Turn on your TV or radio in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
Restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include food and water sufficient for at least three days, medications, a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power. For example, you can call, text, email, or use social media. Remember that during disasters, sending text messages is usually reliable and faster than making phone calls because phone lines are often overloaded.
Review your evacuation zone, evacuation route, and shelter locations. Plan with your family. You may have to leave quickly so plan ahead.
Keep your car in good working condition, and keep the gas tank full; stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes.
If you have flood insurance, your policy may cover up to $1000 in loss avoidance measures, like sandbags and water pumps, to protect your insured property. You should keep copies of all receipts and a record of the time spent performing the work. They should be submitted to your insurance adjuster when you file a claim to be reimbursed.
When a hurricane is 18-36 hours from arriving
Bookmark your city or county website for quick access to storm updates and emergency instructions.
Bring loose, lightweight objects inside that could become projectiles in high winds (e.g., patio furniture, garbage cans); anchor objects that would be unsafe to bring inside (e.g., propane tanks); and trim or remove trees close enough to fall on the building.
Cover all of your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.
When a hurricane is 6-18 hours from arriving
Turn on your TV/radio, or check your city/county website every 30 minutes in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
Charge your cell phone now so you will have a full battery in case you lose power.
When a hurricane is 6 hours from arriving
If you’re not in an area that is recommended for evacuation, plan to stay at home or where you are and let friends and family know where you are.
Close storm shutters, and stay away from windows. Flying glass from broken windows could injure you.
Turn your refrigerator or freezer to the coldest setting and open it only when necessary. If you lose power, food will last longer. Keep a thermometer in the refrigerator to be able to check the food temperature when the power is restored.
Turn on your TV/radio, or check your city/county website every 30 minutes in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
Survive DURING
If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not drive around barricades.
If sheltering during high winds, go to a storm shelter, or a small, interior, windowless room or hallway on the lowest floor that is not subject to flooding.
If trapped in a building by flooding, go to the highest level of the building. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater.
Listen for current emergency information and instructions.
Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery outdoors ONLY and away from windows.
Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don’t Drown! Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.
Be Safe AFTER
Listen to authorities for information and special instructions.
Be careful during clean-up. Wear protective clothing and work with someone else.
Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box to prevent electric shock.
Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
Document any property damage with photographs. Contact your insurance company for assistance.