Ice Dams-What are they and how do we help?

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO partners with folks who can help with anything needed to bring your home to pre-disaster condition.

Winter is here. This means there's no better time than the present to stop ice dams - before they form. Ice dams are formed when the temperature of your roof goes above 32 degrees Fahrenheit, typically caused by a warm attic. At this higher temperature, the warm attic air melts the snow on top of the roof, causing water to travel down the slopes and valleys of your roof until it hits the edge, where the air is still below freezing. The water turns into ice, and as more melted snow follows its path, it builds, and an ice dam is formed. 

The key to prevention is to keep your attic and roof cold. 

1-Start in the attic, installing and adding proper insulation. If you're not sure if you have enough, check the depth of what's there. Building codes require 12 to 14 inches of insulation. If you have 8 inches or less, it's time to add more. It reduces conductive heat loss from your home into your attic, which warms the roof.

2- Look at your ventilation system. Attic ventilation is designed to let in outside air, which is beneficial during the winter months. It draws in colder air and removes the warmer air. Examine your attic to check your level of ventilation. Install any soffit vents required to reach the proper level of ventilation. 

3-Preventing heat loss through your ceiling is essential as well. One-third of your home's heat loss is through the ceiling into the attic. Close your attic leaks by raking back the insulation to locate leaks, and plug them with foam or caulk. Also, seal air ducts inside the attic, bathroom and kitchen fan vents if present, and the attic doors or hatches.

If you need to know how to prevent water damage from ice dams after you've already had a dam form, there are several steps you can take to stop the flow of water inside your home. 

If you're not sure whether you have water damage from ice dams, warning signs include:

• Peeling paint
• Sagging drywall
• Stains on windows and doors

If you have an ice dam, it needs to be removed, whether it's causing water damage inside the home or not. Never try to pull the ice dam down off the roof, as it strongly adheres to your shingles and removal in this way will damage them. You also shouldn't try to remove the ice dam with a chisel and hammer for the same reason.

 Ice dams should be removed by a trained professional only.

If the water damage is there, contain the leak with a bucket and towels. 

-Next, change the temperature of the attic by opening the vents and windows. Making the attic cold allows the roof to refreeze. If it's safe for you to do so, lower the thermostat to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, close the attic doors or hatchways tightly and seal the edges with foam or tape, which encloses the cold air inside the attic.

If you have any of the warning signs of water damage from ice dams, take the steps above and stop the water from flowing. Next, call a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO.

A reputable company will provide mitigation and restoration to remove the water and dry out the affected areas. 

It only takes a small amount of water to create a lot of damage.

Prepare your home during the summer to prevent water damage from ice dams during the winter and call a professional as soon as you notice the intrusion.

Call SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley for all your restoration, mitigation and reconstruction needs. 

We make it “Like It Never Even Happened”

Contact us today at 651.330.7271

How Quickly Does Mold Grow After Water Damage

9/13/2022 (Permalink)

The speed of mold growth

Maybe you had a water leak from a plumbing problem or from a leaky refrigerator. Maybe we had a major storm or tornado sweep through the Minneapolis / Twin Cities area. Either way, now your home has water damage. Depending on how severe the water damage, you are probably asking yourself, “Should I clean up the water damage myself or hire a professional?”.  The following are a couple things to consider. First, hopefully, the water damage will be covered by your insurance company. SERVPRO of Eagan / Apple Valley works with all insurance companies in the area and knows what each company is looking for (this will make things easier on you). Second, if the area is not properly and completely dried out, even in the areas you cannot see, the structure will more than likely suffer secondary damage. What is secondary damage? Mold growing in your home is known as secondary damage after a water damage event. Mold needs moister to grown and it can grow within 24-48 hours.  Time is a factor after a water damage. If mold is already growing in your home after a water damage, SERVPRO of Eagan / Apple Valley can remediate that as well. We are here to help. Give us a call today!

What is My Fridge Leaking Water?

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

Maybe your water alarm alerted you, maybe you see a puddle or some dripping, or maybe you see some signs of water damage (corrosion, water stains, etc.). Once you’ve discovered a leak, consider the possible causes.

Blocked defroster. A blocked defroster can stop defrost-cycle water from draining properly. Try clearing out the small drain by pouring hot water into it. Remove any debris with a pipe cleaner.

Drain pan. Sometimes the drain pan itself can leak. Check for cracks.

Filter. Refrigerators with filters can leak if the filter is the wrong size or not installed properly.

Water line. This is potentially the most problematic. Refrigerators with ice makers or water dispensers have water lines running between the main water supply and the back of the fridge. Feel to see if the water line is wet or dripping. Cracked hoses and loose connections are often the culprit.

Refrigerator leaks can damage the flooring and cabinets in your kitchen.  If you experience a refrigerator leak, please contact us right away to treat and help to prevent any further damage.

Source: ER Plumbing Online

Keeping Gutters Clear to Prevent Water Damage

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

Ideally, gutters clear the water from your roof and move it safely away from your home. Healthy gutters help prevent leaky roofs, water damage to the attic, and water coming in through your home’s foundation.

Twice a year, it is very important to clear your home’s gutters. Leaves, twigs, mud, nests, and other debris can clog the gutters and restrict the water flow.  When water has nowhere to go, it pools and can seep into areas it should not, which can cause water damage to your home. If you do not feel you can safely perform the job yourself, please hire out the job to a professional.

If your home has suffered water damage, please call SERVPRO of Eagan / Apple Valley today to remove the water and dry out the area in order to prevent further damage.

Ice damage, hail damage, frozen pipes and ice damming

1/15/2022 (Permalink)

Cold Climates and Ice Dams Winter storms can bring ice damage, hail damage, frozen pipes and ice damming. Combined with wind damage, these can cause roof leaks, requiring expensive roof repairs. When ice dams cause roof leaks, roof repairs must be quickly undertaken to avoid the massive release of flood water into the home or business. If ice dams are allowed to grow to a large enough size, the ice damming process can pose a serious risk of catastrophic roof failure.To keep ice dams from forming it is necessary to use heat tape and flashing. Place the heat tape or flashing on the problem areas of your roof to keep the snow melting into the rain gutters. If the gutters start to freeze you will see icicles forming and an ice dam will be next.

Water Damage Timeline

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Why is My Refrigerator Leaking?

11/25/2021 (Permalink)

If your refrigerator is leaking water and causing water damage to your flooring it’s usually because of one of two reasons.

Reason #1 your fridge is leaking

A blocked defrost drain is one of the most common causes of water leakage. This happens when food particles or other debris clog up the drain hose, which can lead to ice build and, eventually, water leaking out of the freezer and refrigerator.

Fix: First, try flushing the drain from inside the freezer with warm water, using a turkey baster or a small funnel. You can also try using a pipe cleaner or a straightened coat hanger to forcibly remove the clog. If this doesn't fix the problem you may need to manually remove the debris that is clogging the check valve at the end of the drain hose.

Reason #2 your fridge is leaking

From time to time, a clogged or frozen water supply line will cause water to puddle beneath the refrigerator. It will also affect ice production from the ice maker and slow or stop water flow from the dispenser.

Fix: First, unplug the refrigerator and locate the shut-off valve, typically underneath the sink, behind the refrigerator, or below the refrigerator in the basement. Make sure this valve is closed, and look for any leaks, kinks, or clogs in the plastic supply line.

Source: CNET online

Categories of Water in a Water Damage

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Not all water is the same, and when you have a flood in your home, you want to leave it to the professionals to deal with contaminated water of any kind. Some flood water in Apple Valley, MN can be relatively clean while some homeowners have to contend with black water at one point or another. Any kind of water can lead to mold growth, so address your precise situation as best you can.

1. Category 1

Category 1 water is typically clean, but it may contain contaminants from the surrounding area. This type of water usually comes from a faulty supply line on an appliance or a broken water pipe. When the water leaks out into a room, it may pick up soil or materials from the surrounding area, such as materials from the subflooring, decking or walls. However, if it is accidentally consumed, then it should not result in any serious illness.

2. Category 2

Category 2 contaminated water is slightly more dangerous. In the event a person accidentally consumes it, then it would likely result in some discomfort or sickness. This level can also be called grey water, which can include water that comes from sink drains or washing machines.

3. Category 3

Category 3 flood water is the most dangerous and most commonly referred to as black water. This water typically contains fecal matter and can come from a toilet overflow. It can also come from rainwater picking up contaminants from the outside soil and bringing them inside your home in Apple Valley, MN. Additionally, standing water can promote bacterial growth.

Allowing water to stand in a room can cause less dangerous water to grow worse by the second. Fungi just needs stagnant air, a moderate temperature and moisture to grow. This is why it is so critical to remedy the situation as soon as you can. 

Water Damage from an Overflowing Toilet

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

An overflowing toilet is a problem everyone will likely deal with at some point. When water overflows from the bowl, chances are the culprit is a clogged toilet drain—usually an easy fix with some basic tools.

First, turn off the toilet’s water supply, on the wall behind the toilet. If you can’t find the water supply to stop the toilet overflowing, take the top off the tank and lift the float ball or cup high enough to stop the water from running. If that does not work, the shut off valve for the water supply to the house is generally located near the water heater.

Should overflow continue once the main water supply is off, you’re dealing with sewage backup, a serious situation due to the hazardous nature of the sewage water. If you are on a municipal septic system, you may need to call the city. If you have a septic tank, you’ll need a plumbing company that can flush out your system.

If you have experienced water damage to due an overflowing toilet, time is a factor. Please give us a call right away at SERVPRO of Eagan / Apple Valley.

Water Damage and Wood Floors

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

A simple bucket full of water can leave damage to a wood floor. A leaky kitchen sink or dishwasher, an upstairs toilet overflowing, or even just a spilled mopping bucket might pose problems for porous wood floors and substructures. Whatever the cause, water causes warping, and can trigger mold and mildew growth that can ruin wood. Major flooding creates problems in foundations and walls that must be addressed, but the first step in mitigating the damage done by water to a home or building (including its wood floors) is to gently, but quickly ventilate and dry materials.

SERVPRO® of Eagan / Apple Valley uses commercial-grade machines that extract the water from the wood flooring with a powerful force.  If we are called immediately following a water damage event, there is a good possibility we can save your wood floors from buckling using the high-powered water extractors.  Don't hesitate to call right away.

Source: Homeguides

Water Damage Underneath the Kitchen Sink

11/29/2020 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Eagan / Apple Valley, we’re are very often called due to water damage and mold growth found underneath the kitchen sink.  Often times, there is a slow leak that has occurred over time causing water damage and, in many cases, mold growth. Kitchen sinks with garbage disposals are especially prone to leaky pipes under the sink. In order to prevent water damage as well as mold growth, it’s important to inspect your kitchen sink pipes and make sure everything is dry and working properly. What you find might surprise you.  If you have discovered water damage underneath your kitchen sink or have discovered mold growth, please call us today at SERVPRO of Eagan / Apple Valley as it is very important to remove, remediate, and restore the problem right away so the situation does not get worse and start warping kitchen cabinets.  Call today!

Air Conditioner Causes Water Damage to Ceiling in Minneapolis Area Home

7/20/2020 (Permalink)

The homeowner of a house in Minneapolis noticed round, yellowish, water spots had appeared on the ceiling of his master bedroom. Realizing that the cause of the water damage was likely the air conditioner located in the attic above the room, he climbed up to take a look. Sure enough, his air conditioner in his attic was the cause of the damage. He called out an HVAC repair company to fix the problem with the air conditioner, and next he called SERVPRO® of Eagan / Apple Valley to mitigate the water damage done to the floor of the attic and to the ceiling of the bedroom. Our technicians removed all affected drywall and set up several air movers to dry out the wet areas. After a few days of drying and daily moisture checks, the moisture levels were low and back to normal, so our crew pulled the equipment and packed up. The floor of the attic and ceiling of the bedroom were repaired, and it was like this water disaster never even happened!

Three Probable Causes of a Leaky Refrigerator

1/18/2020 (Permalink)

Three Probable Causes of a Leaky Refrigerator

DRAIN PAN

Examine the drain pan for any cracks, which is located at the bottom of the refrigerator. If you notice a significant amount of pooling underneath, chances are the pan has a crack and that's what is causing the leak. Replace the pan immediately if you notice any damage.

WATER FILTER

If your filter is not installed properly, or the filter is old or doesn't fit correctly with your refrigerator model, chances are there is a poor connection between the filter and the water supply. To prevent your refrigerator from leaking, check to see if water is escaping due to holes in the filter. Also, check the size and model of both the fridge and filter to ensure it's the correct part for your refrigerator.

DEFROST DRAIN

One of the most common causes of a leaky refrigerator is a faulty defrost drain. When the defrost drain is blocked by food particles or ice, it prevents the water accumulated during the defrost cycle to properly drain into the pan. Eventually, water will start to build up. Without anywhere to drain, water will begin to flow right onto your floor. Remove any blockage caused by food particles or ice by flushing the drain with hot water and removing debris carefully with a wire hanger.

Source: Roto-Rooter Online

How Big of a Water Heater Do I Need?

1/16/2020 (Permalink)

How Big of a Water Heater Do I Need?

The installation of your home’s water heater is an important decision. There are many factors to consider:

• Tanked vs. tankless water heater
• The right water heater for your household size
• Best location for your heater (installation)
• Gas or Electric
• How big of a water heater do I need

If you decided on a tank water heater, you may ask yourself, how big of a water heater do I need? Determining factors will be the size of your family and the utilities available in your home. Use this simple guide to determine your water heater size needs:

• Family size 1-2: 30-gallon heater
• Family size 2-3: 40-gallon heater
• Family size 3-4: 40-50-gallon heater
• Family size 5 or more: 50-80-gallon heater

Source: Zine Trip Online

Overflowing Toilet? Don't Panic - Here's What to Do

9/2/2019 (Permalink)

Overflowing Toilet – What to Do

If your toilet is overflowing, don't panic. Here's what to do:

First, turn off the toilet’s water supply, on the wall behind the toilet. If you can’t find the water supply to stop the toilet overflowing, take the top off the tank and lift the float ball or cup high enough to stop the water from running. If that does not work, the shut off valve for the water supply to the house is generally located near the water heater.

If the toilet is still overflowing after you have turned off the water supply, you are dealing with sewage backup. A sewage back up is considered dark water containing dangerous contaminates. If you are on a municipal septic system, call the city. If you have a septic tank, you’ll need a plumbing company that can flush out your system. 

To remove the bio hazardous materials and the water damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO at Eagan / Apple Valley: (651) 330-7271.

Keep an Eye on your Water Bill in Order to Detect Leaks

1/19/2019 (Permalink)

Keep an eye on your water bill in order to detect leaks

With so many water pipes hidden behind walls and in the floors in your house, you might not know there’s a leak until the damage is done. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your monthly water bill. If you see it starting to creep up, or get one that’s uncommonly high, it’s a pretty good sign that you may have a leak somewhere.

It's not uncommon for us to get a call from a homeowner who has mold behind their dishwasher or mold behind their sink because there has been a slow leak in a pipe in their walls. It's always a good idea to take care of any water leak as soon as possible in order to prevent mold from forming in addition to the water damage.

Never Pour Grease Down Your Sink

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

Never pour grease down your sink

You’ve probably heard this before, but you should definitely avoid pouring grease down your kitchen sink. It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water. It can still congeal and cling to your pipes, and could still cause some serious damage and blockage.

Some people use detergent to break up grease before pouring it down the drain…and that may help sometimes. But there’s no guarantee that it’ll keep the grease from sticking to your pipes, so why take the risk?

The safest thing to do is just to pour your grease in an empty can, and either let it sit or put it in the refrigerator. Once it hardens you can toss it in the trash and get rid of it. Done and done.

Pipe leaks from clogged pipes can cause water damage to your home as well as mold damage if the water damage is not soon addressed.

 Source: www.farmers.com

2 Outside Projects to do in Order to Avoid Water Damage

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

2 Outside Projects to do in Order to Avoid Water Damage 

1. Be careful where you plant

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have pretty invasive roots. If you’re not careful, they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean out roof gutters

You know it’s on your to-do list anyway, so if you can, take a safe climb up to your roof next Sunday and check out your gutters. If you’re seeing lots of leaves, birds’ nests, sticks, and whatnot up there, your gutters may not be doing the job you hired them for. And on a rainy day, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. That could cause some serious water damage! So next time you’re doing some seasonal cleaning, make sure those gutters are clean. And if your gutters are too high, be safe and get a professional to check them.

We Specialize in Basement Floods Clean-Up and Restoration

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

We Specialize in Basement Floods Clean-Up and Restoration

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your  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. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Eagan and Apple Valley and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Prevent Frozen Pipes

1/18/2018 (Permalink)

Cold weather in Nicols, MN, can cause frozen pipes. It makes landlords and homeowners alike anxious every time the temperatures start to dip below freezing. However, there are steps you can take to lessen the likelihood you will need a water line repair.

Facts

Freezing pipes are not just a cold-climate problem. Homes located in warmer climates actually tend to be more vulnerable. This is because pipes are less likely to be properly insulated in these milder locales. When the weather does get cold, problems occur.

Frozen pipes cause many issues. Not only can they prevent water flow, but they can actually burst, causing water damage and potential flooding. Taking preventative precautions is the key to preventing such disasters.

Tips

There are some measures you can take to help keep your pipes from freezing:

• Keep the heat on.
• Leave cabinet doors open during cold weather.
• Wrap pipes in electrical heating tape.
• Add extra insulation to pipes located outside or in vulnerable areas.
• Allow faucets to drip slightly.

If you are leaving your home, keep the heat on while you are gone. You don’t have to leave it on high, but keeping it set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit is a good idea. Pipes are usually located in cabinets. By leaving these doors open, heat can more easily get to these areas. Apply heating tape directly to easily accessible pipes adds an extra layer of protection against the cold.

Some pipes need to be further protected with insulation to keep them from succumbing to the weather. Turning faucets onto a drip relieves pressure in the system. Frozen pipes actually cause pressure, which is why they may burst.

Dropping temperatures don’t have to make you a nervous wreck. Before the days and nights start getting unbearably cold, take the time to insulate your pipes and prepare for the winter months. Taking a few precautionary steps up front can save you a lot of headaches later. If you are dealing with water damage from a plumbing leak, hire a professional water mitigation specialist to make sure your home is properly recovered.

Visit http://www.SERVPROeaganapplevalley.com if you'd like to learn more about our services.

Residential and Commercial Water Damage

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

Residential and Commercial Water Damage

Water damage can cause shocking amounts of harm to a property. It is amazing that something as seemingly as innocuous as water could render properties big and small completely worthless in a matter of days. But this is the reality that water damage can impose on property owners who are not careful.

Flood damage is one of the most insidious forms of property damage because even relatively small amounts of water damage can quickly destroy a home or business. A small supply line break or pipe break can often fool property owners into thinking that they can easily fix the problem themselves simply by soaking up the excess water. But this is a serious mistake. Any time water damage has occurred, in any amount, it is absolutely imperative to call in the professionals so that a proper assessment of the damage can be taken and the restoration and water damage mitigation process can be carried out according to established protocols.

Any time flood damage occurs, call in your local restoration company


The single most important thing that anyone can do when flood damage occurs is to call in their local professional restoration company. These companies have tens of thousands of hours of collective experience in the restoration and mitigation of flood damage and have specialized and powerful equipment at their disposal to help them quickly resolve damage to a flooded home or business.

Once a property owner notices flood water in the business or water in the home, they should immediately place a call to their local restoration company. The company will send out a water cleanup team within minutes. This will begin the water cleanup process.

What does the water cleanup process entail?


The restoration and mitigation of a flooded home or business begins the moment the water cleanup team arrives on the scene. The restoration and mitigation team will immediately enter the property, taking note of the level, severity and classification of any standing flood water in the business or water in the home. The team will also hunt down any pipe break or supply line break, fixing it and establishing the extent of seepage around the area of the supply line break or pipe break.

The team will begin removing standing water in the home or water in the business


Next, the cleanup team will begin removing standing water from the flooded home or business. All standing water in the home or water in the business will be removed through the use of extremely powerful vacuum equipment, which is designed to suck out thousands of gallons every hour. Once this has been completed, which usually only takes a few minutes, the drying process will begin.

The team begins drying the premises


Using highly powerful drying equipment that is specially designed for flooding situations, the team will begin both drying the entire property and dehumidifying the air. In most cases, an ambient humidity of close to zero percent can be reached, much accelerating the drying process. This step of the cleanup usually takes the longest of any of the steps, lasting from a couple hours to a whole day.

The team will also carefully dry the area around the original pipe break or supply line break, making sure all moisture, visible or not, has been completely removed from the area. At this point, the restoration company team will have returned the flooded home or business almost entirely to its original state. But they will still need to do a final cleansing to complete the restoration process.

Cleansing of surfaces, furniture and fixtures


Using specialized chemicals and cleaning implements, the team will thoroughly cleanse all surfaces within the home or business that were exposed to the flood water. This will completely disinfect all surfaces, restoring them to their original condition and eliminating the possibility of foul smells developing later on.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeaganapplevalley.com for more information on water damage.

Professional Water Damage Restoration Tips

9/5/2017 (Permalink)

Professional Water Damage Restoration Tips

Water damage is one of the most powerful agents of destruction out there – that's common knowledge. What most people don't know is that flooding can cause more damage than hurricanes, tornadoes, and hurricanes combined. The aftermath of standing water wreaks havoc on businesses and homes alike and in most cases, it requires the erection of completely new structures altogether. The water may come from supply line break, pipe break, or roof leaks.

The thing about water damage is that it doesn't have to happen suddenly, it can be gradual. It can be deceptive in that sense. Water can penetrate into the structural cavities of a building thus trapping pockets of saturation. If not detected, water in a home or water in a business can cause a bad odor, at best. At worst, water can damage split, shrink, and delaminate materials causing deterioration of structures.

Flood Damage Restoration Tips

If you get home only to find flooded house, home owners should act quickly to avert further damage. Call for help; contact a local restoration company to do a thorough mitigation. Water disaster restoration involves water cleanup, drying, and repairs. No one should enter a flooded building unsure of whether it's safe.

Both water in a home and water in business premises can lead to big losses. Since most of the water disaster cases in the United States occur when there is a supply line break or pipe break, property owners should always make sure that their pipes are in good working condition. Leaks should be reported and fixed promptly to avoid losses. Here are some of the steps a person can take if they get home to a flooded home to enhance drying.

Call a professional restoration company. They should check for IIRC certification before committing to a particular mitigation company.
Shut down the source of flooding water like a supply line break or a pipe break. However, the source of water can only be shut if it's safe, and if it can actually be found. Sometimes, there's nothing a homeowner can do to stop the water, hence the need to call a restoration company.
Unplug all electronic items and cut power at the main switch. Cutting power supply removes electrical hazards in a flooded home.
Move unaffected furniture in the flooded home to higher ground to prevent further flood damage. Upstairs or the attic is a good place for drying the undamaged items.

There's only so much an individual can do in the event of water in a home or water in a business in terms of mitigation and water cleanup. It's wise to let the professional restoration company do the work. It's not safe to try and restore the water damage without help.

Professional Restoration Process

For the best mitigation and water cleanup results, property owners should call a water damage restoration company for assistance. These professionals are trained and well-equipped to deal with such situations. The water damage restoration process involves the following.

Inspection and damage assessment. To determine the type of flood damage and materials affected, water disaster professionals will carefully inspect the flooded home or business premises. They will be looking for supply line break, pipe break, and other potential causes.
Water removal. This process involves using vacuum and powerful pumps to extract the water from all the corners of the house or office. The water removal process should start as soon as possible.
Drying and dehumidifying. This process involves the use of powerful water extraction equipment as well as dehumidifiers to remove any traces of water or moisture completely. When professionally done, this process is fast, efficient, and non-intrusive.
Water cleanup and deodorization- Last but not least, water in a home or water in a business has to be cleaned and deodorization done to get rid of any bad odors.

Standing water, whether it's in a home or a place or business, can be disastrous. Property owners should act quickly to contain the flood damage and minimize losses. Professional restoration company is most capable of restoring the building to livable conditions.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeaganapplevalley.com for more information on water damage.

How To Recover From A Flooded Home Or Business

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

How To Recover From A Flooded Home Or Business

Water can be a wonderful thing. It not only provides us with drinking and cooking water but provides bath water, allows us to water the garden and provides many other conveniences. However, when there is a flooded home or flooded business, it not only ruins your furniture and other belongings but can be frightening as well. To receive proper mitigation of this problem, it important to engage a restoration company who is acquainted with flood damage problems and is prepared to work with you in returning things to normal.

Fire, a supply line break, a pipe break and flood damage are the most common types of water damage. Firemen naturally have to use water to put out a fire. This is bound to cause water in home, water in business, or other buildings, in order to control the flames.

Flooded home or flooded business damage can be extensive when caused by things such as a water supply line break. A water supply line break is often caused by broken or worn out pipes. Extensive damage can be involved when there is water in home or water in business if it is not taken care of immediately. This makes it imperative to contact a restoration company immediately. Such a company will have the proper equipment to not only restore buildings but do a drying and complete restoration of many of the furnishings as well.

WATER DAMAGE

Many parts of the country suffer from flood damage each year. Having a flooded home means dirty water and debris covering everything. A water supply line break or an indoor pipe break can also cause flooding and algae growth. However, restoration is possible when the right company is contacted.

The first thing a company will do is remove contaminated materials and determine if anything can be restored. Often carpets, for example, will respond to rinsing, drying and cleaning in order to be returned to usable condition. Some of the other furnishings may also be restored, depending on the amount of water cleanup required. A restoration company has all the equipment required for this task.

They will repair such things as a pipe break and then use huge fans and suction machines for water cleanup, followed by heating units for drying everything out. This will help prevent mold from forming. Their crew is experienced in all type of flood damage repair and can immediately begin working on water cleanup to restore the premises to its previous condition.

WATER DAMAGE FROM FIRE

Fire in a home or business can be a terrible thing. It cannot only destroy personal items and business records but can be dangerous to life itself. Unfortunately, when there is a fire, water cleanup is required because of water damage from the fire company hoses. This can result in extensive water in home or water in business that does widespread damage.

A restoration company is prepared to not only work on a flooded home or water damage area but also can immediately start to work removing smoke, charred materials and drying the area’s contents. After removing the area’s contents they will use suction equipment to remove the water as well as the intense smoke smell that is always present. They will also help you in the mitigation of restoring your property to its original condition.

RESTORATION

Restoration means just that. A certified restoration company will remove water in home or water in business, replace a pipe break and restore the premises to as near its original condition as possible. This will include replacing windows, doors and flooring. They will also do mitigation of damaged walls and complete them with the same wall finish as they had originally.

When consulted, they will survey the situation and present a complete estimate. If there are things such as broken windows or a damaged roof, they will immediately cover these to prevent further damage from the elements.

Companies who are engaged in this business are prepared to respond immediately with highly skilled workers on water in home or water in business conditions. They understand an owner’s frustration when there is a flooded condition and equipment or furnishings are damaged or destroyed.

Many times mitigation of your original property seems impossible. A good restoration company will be prepared to walk you through, step by step, what is involved in this type of restoration including the cost and length of time involved.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeaganapplevalley.com for more information on water damage.

Why Flood Damage is the Worst

6/14/2017 (Permalink)

Why Flood Damage is the Worst

Water damage comes in many forms. It’s leaking pipes, bursting pipes, clogged drains, and sewage issues. They’re all an inconvenience, and they’re all unwelcome in any home or office. Perhaps the biggest form of water damage any home or office might face is flood damage. Unlike household water damage from pipes or plumbing, flood damage causes mass damage. A clogged toilet that causes water damage by allowing the toilet to leak and run while a homeowner is away usually damages only one room. It doesn’t get high, it doesn’t spread far, and water cleanup is fairly tame.

When flood damage occurs, it can reach three and four feet high in a room. It can flood the entire house, and it can cause major damage that can only be repaired by a professional. When flood damage occurs, it’s more than inconvenient. It’s devastating, which is why people must know what to do when a flood occurs.

When Floods Bring Water in A Home

When water in a home is present following a flood, it can damage almost everything. From the floors to the walls to the furniture, nothing is safe. The longer the water in the home stands without being cleaned up, the more damage it does. When a flood occurs, it’s imperative to call for professional water restoration services as soon as possible. The insurance agency must also know about the flood that’s occurred. Water in the home causes a lot of problems, and it must be fixed right away. It can cause mold, it can ruin everything people own, and it can be dangerous.

When Floods Bring Water in A Business

Water in a business calls for immediate mitigation. It means calling for restoration services to begin as soon as possible. Flood water damage is difficult to clean up in a timely manner without the help of professional equipment, and it can mean losing more money that just what it costs go to through the water cleanup phase. When there is water in a business, it means business owners are forced to shut down. They lose money, they pay their employees for time off, and they suffer as a result. Water in a business is a devastation to owners.

Calling For Professional Restoration

The professional restoration services people need following a flood should include mitigation services. This allows business and homeowners to learn a little about water and the damage it causes. It’s also the best way to get things cleaned up quickly. The equipment professionals use speeds up the drying process, and it makes water cleanup so much faster. Everything must go through an extensive drying process to ensure no moisture is left behind. Proper drying saves business owners and homeowners a lot of money over time.

Since it takes very little for mold to grow and no time at all for it to spread rapidly, timing is everything in the water cleanup and drying process. It must be done quickly and efficiently, and utilizing the services of a professional is the best way to ensure this happens. No one can clean up water faster than the professionals, and no one has the knowledge they have.

Before anyone calls a pro to come in and clean up their water mess, there are a few things worth knowing. It’s important to stay out of standing water until the electric is shut off, and assuming the power outage is good enough is not safe. Creatures displaced in storms find their way into buildings filled with flood waters. Be on the lookout for them to avoid a nasty surprise.

Let the pros come out and do their job to get all homes and offices up and running in no time. The expense is worth it now rather than paying so much more later when damage that wasn’t properly repaired grows worse. Mitigation is what all home and business owners need right now. It's through mitigation they learn to properly handle and prevent future floods.
Visit http://www.SERVPROeaganapplevalley.com for more information on water damage.

What To Do when Floods Invade Your Home

5/23/2017 (Permalink)

What To Do when Floods Invade Your Home

Water damage mitigation is the process of preventing the extent of water damage that takes place during the heavy rains that cause floods. The flood damage experts are trained in a variety of mitigation procedures like the structural drying that eliminates the moisture without weakening the structure. This state-of-the-art technology dries the entire structure while maintaining the original form of the concrete to avoid damaging it. The smooth flow of water in business and residential drains will determine the magnitude of the flood damage. The technicians also rely on the moisture meters to find the stagnant water in home cabinets and other areas. The technicians ensure that your home is clean and dry before beginning the restoration process. The water in home plumbing systems must flow freely after the flood. Immediate water cleanup can minimize the absorption of water and reduce the damage. Drying the home after water damage can help to escalate the restoration process. Drying your home will also minimize the water damage.

Minimizing the water damage

Flooding is a natural disaster that occurs along the coast, inland, poorly drained areas, low-lying zones, and across every region of the country. If you live in the sunken land, you are at a high risk of flooding and water damage. Flooding risks are everywhere, and the experts recommend improving the drainage system by modifying the slope and unblocking the trenches. Most insurance companies provide the home protection policies to the people who reside in such areas. All water in business gutters needs to drain properly into the storage tanks. Flooding is a natural phenomenon that depends on several factors such as rainfall, topography, and the level of construction in the neighborhood.

How insurance helps during restoration and mitigation
It is critical to consider such issues when applying for home insurance. If you notice any problems in the system, you need a plumber to fix it. Having water in home electric systems can be dangerous. The blockage might limit the flow of water in business trenches and drains, meaning that you will have to inspect them and address the issue. Flood mitigation involves taking steps to prepare your home for such eventualities. Besides inspecting the drainage channels, you must devise an emergency communication and exit plan to evacuate your family. Start the water cleanup and find a way to handle the water in business drains that might have blocked during the storm.

Home restoration and water cleanup

You also need to install a standby generator to supply power whenever you need to pump the water. After water cleanup, you can minimize the cost of restoration after flood damage by mounting the electronic items above the flood level. The water in home floors can cause the wood to swell and warp. It is vital to think about the water in home rugs and carpets as you take them out to dry. While floods can invade your home when you do not expect them, it is vital to prepare for the worst-case scenario. The following measures will help you to eliminate the flooding problem from your home:

• Elevating your furnace, electric panel, and water heater if you live in a low-lying zone
• Install some check valves in the sewer and the drainage channels to prevent the water from going back. Backflow prevention is critical if you want the channels to eliminate the storm water
• Construct barriers with sand bags to redirect the water into the drainage systems and keep it away from your foundation to stop floodwater from entering your home.
• Apply the appropriate seals on the foundation and basement walls to eliminate the cracks that might encourage the seepage
• Undertaking the landscaping in a manner that allows the water to flow away from the house rather than toward the foundation
• Drying the surfaces after the water cleanup can minimize the flood damage and cut the cost of home repair significantly. Visit http://www.SERVPROeaganapplevalley.com for more information on water damage.

Heavy Rain Can Cause More Damage Than You Think

5/16/2016 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement Due To Sump Pump Failure

Heavy rains can overwhelm city sewer systems and sump pumps throughout the south metro area.  With our highly trained specialists, we were able to take care of many homeowners that were in need of help.  Being faster to any size disaster, we will always be there when we are needed!

Restoring storm and flood damaged properties is the cornerstone of our business. Our highly trained professionals use specialized equipment and advanced training to quickly restore your property to pre-storm condition. We’re dedicated to responding immediately, which helps to minimize secondary damage.

SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley utilizes advanced equipment and technology to quicken the restoration time and to minimize cost. We are proudly serving our community and surrounding areas with 24/7 emergency availability. Don't hesitate and give us a call today! (651) 330-7271

Always Call an Expert for Repairs

3/18/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Crews Ready at a Moments Notice

A water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, the response should be the same. Bring in SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. A certified water damage restoration service like SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, we have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

SERVPRO of Eagan/Apple Valley utilizes advanced equipment and technology to quicken the restoration time and to minimize cost. We proudly serve our community and surrounding areas with 24/7 emergency availability. Give us a call today! (651) 330-7271

When and why you need to call a specialist!

2/26/2016 (Permalink)

Water being extracted from flooded home.

"The thing about being a water damage and repair specialist is that no one seems to care about what you do until they desperately need your help."  No matter what time of the day or night you can count on us to be there to help.  Don't hesitate to call!

We are water removal and cleanup specialists and are ready to service your home or business when flooding or water leaks cause water damage. We quickly dry your property using state-of-the-art water removal equipment and advanced drying techniques, documenting the drying process to make sure your property is dry and the job is done right. Check out when and why you should call a specialist by clicking here! We are always here to help.  Give us a call today!  651-330-7271!