What You Should Know About Water Damage Restoration Planning

2/1/2023 (Permalink)

Call the trusted leaders in the restoration industry!

When homeowners find themselves faced with water from a flood or bursting pipes, they often want to know how long the restoration efforts will take. The answer depends on the extent of the damage, the type of water to invade the home and materials used throughout the affected area. Homeowners can expect the process to take anywhere from two to three days, but to not be surprised if it takes as many as seven. Some factors that affect the time it takes to dry out a home include:

• The type of water to flood the home
• The size of the area affected
• The building materials affected

Type of Water

Clean water is easier to clean up than black water, as the former doesn’t require special Hazmat materials or equipment. If your problems stem from bursting pipes, the solution may be as simple as fixing the pipes and drying out the area. If you do so within 24 to 48 hours, you can prevent mold and bacteria growth as well.

Size of Affected Area

The type of water isn’t the only factor to affect restoration times. The size of area plays a huge part as well. If the size of the affected area is relatively small, less than ten square feet, restoration efforts can take as little as two days, and you may even be able to perform them yourself. However, if your entire ground floor is flooded, it could take several days of professional efforts.

Materials Impacted

If it is just your carpet that is affected, restoration efforts shouldn’t require much of your time at all. However, if your drywall, insulation and/or framing are impacted, you may need to do more than fix a broken pipe. Restoration efforts in the latter instance could take as long as 10 days or more.

Every situation is different, and the water damage caused by bursting pipes could be far more severe than damage from, say, a leaking pipe. Talk to your local SERVPRO of Licking County water damage restoration team to learn more about what to expect.

We Are Here To Help With Your Insurance Claim

2/1/2023 (Permalink)

Our team of professionals take the worry away with your claim

When you experience an unexpected disaster in your home, you may not know how to handle it. After the shock is over, your first thought is “How am I going to pay for this?”. This is a common question homeowners ask themselves given the high cost of repairing water, fire, mold or trauma damage. Good news for you, our team of professionals is here to help eliminate that concern.

Here at SERVPRO of Licking County set ourselves apart from other restoration companies by how well we work with your insurance company. Our dedicated team of professionals understands the insurance industry. From knowing how the claims process works, to getting your claim submitted and your repairs covered. Many of our team members have a background in the insurance industry.

As one of the largest restoration and damage remediation companies in the country, we work with hundreds of insurance companies to help our customers get their claims processed quickly and fairly. Many insurance companies know that SERVPRO handles losses professionally and often recommend us to their policyholders.

SERVPRO of Licking County is here for you!

What You Need To Know About Fires

12/6/2022 (Permalink)

Timing is everything. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

• Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a serious fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house or for it to be engulfed in flames - impairing vision and breathing.
• Fire is HOT! Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs and melt clothes on your skin. Always crawl on the floor!
• Fire is DARK! Fires start bright but quickly produce black smoke and complete darkness.
• Smoke is DEADLY! Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do. Fire produces poisonous gases that disorient you. Asphyxiation (suffocation) is the leading cause of death from home-related fires.

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is a bit different, each one requires a customized solution tailored to the specific conditions. Our SERVPRO Team has the necessary equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your fire or smoke-damaged property. Most importantly, we will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

We Always Here To Help!

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

We are dedicated to being "Faster to any size disaster".

Across the United States, SERVPRO Franchises are gearing up to serve you as the leader in the cleaning and restoration industry. Are you READY for what the year may bring your way? While we only hope to see good things come throughout the year, it is always a good idea to plan ahead for the unexpected and unwelcome disasters such as fire, water or mold damage.

Here at SERVPRO of Licking County, we are here to help make your residential or commercial property “Like it never even happened,” if one of those disasters comes your way. With over 2,000 independently owned and operated Franchises, you can trust the team in green to get your property— and life—back to normal. We are only one call away!

Faster to any size disaster is a commitment from SERVPRO to be there when you need us the most.

Whether you are a small business or home owner facing minor fire or water damage, or a property manager dealing with a widespread disaster, SERVPRO of Licking County has the resources needed to respond quickly and efficiently. The faster help arrives, the quicker restoration begins and the sooner you can resume business as usual.

If a fire, water or mold damage strikes, no matter the size, call SERVPRO of Licking County at (740) 587-0938!

Is Water Damage An Emergency?

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Don't let water damage ruin your property!

Having a water damage in your home or business is a very stressful situation. Many things can go through your mind, but how do you know if it is an emergency? If no one is injured, then by definition it is not considered a "true" emergency and 911 usually does not need to be called.

However, it could still be an emergency in regards to your property. The longer that water sits on the building materials, the more possibility there is that secondary damage will occur. Water can seep into wall crevices and down through the floors below. If it is not cleaned up and dried out properly, then the potential for mold growth is high. 

If you walk in and see water pouring into your home or business, step 1 is to find the main water shutoff, and to shut off the water.

Also be very aware of these other things that may be affected and could be a potential hazard, such as the electricity supply, gas supply, water damaged electrical appliances, contaminated water (gasoline, chemicals, etc.) or structural damage.

So if you don't call 911, who do you call?

• Local SERVPRO of Licking County Restoration experts
• Insurance Agent
• Insurance Company 

We work hand in hand with your insurance company to act fast, so we can get your home or business back to normal. We are available 24 hours a day to address these water emergencies. When it comes to water damage, don't take chances. Call us today and get the damage taken care of, the right way!

Unpredictable Ohio Weather

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

If you encounter any of these problems call SERVPRO® of Licking County at 740-587-0938.

Ohio weather can often have more twists and turns than a new roller coaster at Kings Island or Cedar Point.  It is freezing in the morning and warm in the afternoon or vice versa.  It’s snowing, but that wasn’t in the forecast. This actually happens here. It is not uncommon for the temperature to change more than 30 degrees in a single 24-hour period.  

Recently, we have been experiencing mostly mild winter temperatures in our region. However, we have just begun a cold snap that is predicted to last several days. 

Extreme weather changes can wreak havoc on your home causing water damage, mold damage and even fire damage. 

Here are a few tips that can help you prepare in case of a weather emergency. 

Prepare Now 

• Emergency Kit (with supplies to last at least three days) 
• Prescription Medications 
• Battery operated devices and charging options 
• Inspect home systems to ensure proper function (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, etc.) 
• Maintain and inspect all supplemental heating devices (portable heaters, chimneys, etc.) 

A comprehensive list of items to include in your emergency kit is available at www.ready.gov along with more information to help you stay ahead of the storm.

Your local team of SERVPRO® professionals would like to take a moment and remind everyone to stay safe and healthy!  

SERVPRO® of Licking County is Ready for Whatever Happens!

1/14/2022 (Permalink)

You may recognize SERVPRO® as a disaster restoration company, but did you know that we offer many non-emergency services too?   

Our highly trained team members are ready and able to assist with a multitude of situations that life may throw your way, as well as your routine cleaning needs.  If you are looking to freshen up your home or if you have the unfortunate luck of suffering a loss and you are experiencing an emergency caused by water or fire, SERVPRO® of Licking County can help!

Upholstery/On-Site Drapery and Carpet Cleaning:  

Furniture, on-site drapery and/or carpet cleaning can brighten up any space. We offer multiple methods of carpet and upholstery cleaning that can be tailored to your individual needs.  Our drapery cleaning equipment allows us to clean your drapes while they are hanging, allowing us to provide the most convenient option for drapery cleaning. 

Dryer Vent/Furnace Duct Cleaning: 

Furnace Duct Cleaning can freshen the air that you breathe by removing pollutants from the environment and improving air flow.  Dryer Vent Cleaning can help improve the efficiency of your dryer while also, helping to prevent a fire.   

Please call our office at 740-587-0938 today to find out more and/or schedule a free estimate. 

Winter Water Damage

1/10/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Licking County today! 740-587-0938

Winter Water Damage 

Along with its chilling temps, winter brings along a host of water damage possibilities. Residential homes are especially vulnerable to water damage during the winter. When the temperature is below freezing there are three main types of winter water damage. Today, we are going to focus on one of the most common causes of water damage, burst pipes. Broken or burst pipes are one of the top sources of water damage. In most cases, burst pipes can be prevented. 

Burst Pipes Are Common in the Winter 

Pipes, whether plastic or metal, are known for bursting in sub-freezing temps. Contrary to popular belief, pipes rarely burst due to expanding ice contained within them. Rather, pipes break due to the buildup of water pressure between a sink’s faucet and an ice blockage. No matter how sturdy a pipe may be, it’s no match for expanding water. The pipe will rupture. 

Typically, uninsulated pipes are especially prone to breakage. Pipes that are located along the exterior walls and water pipes that run along unheated areas of a home. Such as, the attic, basement, garage, crawl space or underneath a sink. 

The number one protection against a burst pipe is insulation. Before winter’s arrival, inspect all areas of your home that contain unheated water lines. You can purchase pipe sleeves and fit them around the pipes in the garage, under the sink and beneath the bathroom cabinets. If pipe sleeves are unavailable, another option is using a quarter-inch of newspaper to surround the pipes, which offers an equally effective solution against the damage caused by sustained freezing temperatures. 

Maintaining a cozy indoor temperature will help prevent your pipes from freezing. Even when you are away, you should run the heat continuously at no less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Experts also suggest maintaining a consistent temperature throughout the home. (This may be costlier than turning down the heat at night, but it may prevent an even more expensive broken pipe.) Another tried and true method to prevent a break in your water pipe is to let the faucet trickle water. Dripping even the smallest volume of water during subfreezing temperatures allows the water to run through the pipe without freezing. Unheated compartments of a home can also benefit from warm air. A common winter weather defense strategy is leaving the kitchen cupboards and bathroom cabinets open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Also, remember to keep garage doors closed if water lines run through them. 

When water pipes do freeze, they can be thawed. Apply a towel soaked in hot water around the frozen pipe to slowly thaw the freeze. An electrical heating pad will work, just as well. Also, keep the faucet running, this allows the flowing water to gradually melt the ice. 

Despite all preventive measures, disasters can still occur. When an emergency happens, contact a professional water damage restoration company, like SERVPRO of Licking County. Our highly trained professionals combined with our state-of-the-art drying equipment are well-equipped to remove all excess moisture from homes and businesses in substantially less time than a standard dehumidifier. It is crucial to remove standing water and stabilize the environment as soon as possible. 

Water damage restoration technicians use advanced equipment to detect the level of water damage in the affected area. Air movers, dehumidifiers and other high-tech equipment are used to thoroughly dry out the affected areas. 

Our specialists will quickly return your home to its preloss condition. The certified water damage restoration technicians at SERVPRO of Licking County will respond immediately to calls within Licking County, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 

Fire and Smoke Damage - What to do Until Help Arrives

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

Smoke and soot are very invasive and can penetrate various surfaces in your home.

DO:

• Limit movement in the home to prevent soot particles from being embedded into upholstery and carpet.
• Keep hands clean. Soot on hands can further soil upholstery, walls and woodwork.
• Place dry, colorfast towels or old linens on rugs, upholstery and carpet traffic areas.
• If electricity is off, empty freezer and refrigerator completely and prop doors open to help prevent odor.
• Wipe soot from chrome on kitchen and bathroom faucets, trim and appliances, then protect these surfaces with a light coating of lubricant.
• If heat is off during winter, pour RV antifreeze in sinks, toilet bowls, holding tanks and tubs to avoid freezing pipes and fixtures.
• Wash both sides of leaves on house plants.
• Change HVAC filter, but leave system off until a trained professional can check the system.
• Tape double layers of cheesecloth over air registers to stop particles of soot from getting in or out of the HVAC system.

DON’T:

• Attempt to wash any walls or painted surfaces without first contacting your SERVPRO® franchise professional.
• Attempt to shampoo carpet or upholstered furniture without first consulting your SERVPRO® franchise professional.
• Attempt to clean any electrical appliances (TV sets, radios, etc.) that may have been close to fire, heat or water without first consulting an authorized repair service.
• Consume any food or beverages that may have been stored close to fire, heat or water. (They may be contaminated.)
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet. Wiring may be wet or damaged and cause electrical shock, and air movement may create secondary damage.
• Send garments to the dry cleaner. Improper cleaning may set in smoke odor.

Our Fire Damage Restoration Services

Since each smoke and fire damage situation is different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions. We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your property after fire and smoke damage occur. We will treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have Questions about Fire, Smoke, or Soot Damage?
Call SERVPRO® of Licking County today at 740-587-0938

How Does Exposure to Water Affect Building Materials?

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Recent commercial water damage to carpet in Newark, Ohio.

Water damage affects various building materials in different ways. From crumbling drywall to swelling wood, here are a few of the affects that exposure to water can have on common building materials. 

Drywall 

Water can begin to penetrate drywall within hours. This material may react in several ways, including 

• Disintegration 
• Swelling 
• Supporting mold growth 

Drywall that has been exposed to water may need to be torn out and replaced.  
 
Flooring 
Wood flooring and carpeting respond to water damage differently. Wood floors are particularly vulnerable after water permeates the polyurethane coating. You may observe some of the following effects: 

• Cupping 
• Swelling wood 
• Splitting planks 

Solid wood flooring may be restored through several methods, such as 

• Sanding 

• Scraping 
• Refinishing 
• Removing and retrofitting planks 

Regardless of flooring type, wet subfloors may need to be replaced. Moist concrete at the base should also be completely dry prior to restoration. 
 
Carpet exposed to clean water from a supply line break may be dried if the damage is quickly discovered and mitigated. If carpet remains saturated for hours or days or is initially exposed to contaminated black water, it should be torn out and replaced. 
 
Metal 
Metal may become discolored and begin to corrode within days or weeks of exposure to water. Rust-proof coatings may provide some protection. 
 
Wood 
Untreated wood may become stained within minutes or hours of exposure to water. Wood may start to split, swell, or warp within hours or days. Depending on the type of wood, duration of exposure, and structural significance, these components may need to be replaced. 
 
Take action to mitigate water damage as soon as it occurs at your business in Newark, Ohio. First, contact a plumber for water damage related repairs. Next, call SERVPRO® of Licking County at 740-587-0938.  Our highly trained experts can advise you about swelling wood and which building materials can be safely restored or will need to be replaced.