Battling Basement Water Damage: How SERVPRO Restores Peace of Mind in Licking County

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

Discovering water damage in your basement can quickly turn a peaceful home into a source of stress. In Licking County, from the historic streets of Newark to the charming community of Granville, and the serene landscapes of Heath, Marne, and Vanatta, homeowners have faced their share of water woes. But there's a silver lining to this cloud, and it shines brightly in the form of SERVPRO's expert water damage restoration services.

The Unwanted Basement Guest

Water damage in the basement is a common issue, especially in areas like Licking County where varying weather patterns can lead to unexpected leaks, floods, or humidity problems. Basements, being the lowest point in a home, are particularly vulnerable to water intrusion from heavy rains, snow melts, or even internal sources like pipe bursts.

SERVPRO to the Rescue

When water takes up residence in your basement, quick action is critical, and that's where SERVPRO of Licking County comes into play. Our team of professionals is equipped with the expertise and technology to address and rectify water damage swiftly and effectively, minimizing the disruption to your life and the impact on your property.

1. Rapid Response: Time is of the essence with water damage. Our local presence in towns like Newark, Heath, and beyond ensures a prompt response to your emergency, reducing the chance of further damage and mold growth.

2. Expert Assessment: Upon arrival, our skilled production managers conduct a thorough assessment to determine the extent of the water damage. This step is crucial for developing a strategic plan of action tailored to your specific situation.

3. Water Extraction: Using state-of-the-art equipment, SERVPRO's team removes standing water, including those hidden pockets of moisture that can lead to long-term issues if not addressed.

4. Drying and Dehumidifying: Our specialized drying techniques and dehumidifying processes ensure that your basement is returned to a safe, dry state, discouraging mold and mildew growth.

5. Restoration: Whether it's replacing damaged drywall or restoring treasured belongings, SERVPRO of Licking County works diligently to get your basement—and your life—back to normal.

A Commitment to Community

Our dedication goes beyond just restoring homes; it's about rebuilding the peace of mind for families in Newark, Granville, Heath, Marne, Vanatta, and throughout Licking County. We understand the stress and frustration that comes with water damage, which is why we're committed to providing compassionate service and transparent communication every step of the way.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

Choosing SERVPRO means opting for a seamless, stress-free restoration experience. Our local knowledge of Licking County, combined with our national standards of excellence, makes us uniquely equipped to handle the challenges of water damage in your basement. We're not just a service provider; we're your neighbors, ready to help when disaster strikes.

Ready When You Need Us

Water damage doesn't wait for a convenient time. Thankfully, neither do we. SERVPRO of Licking County is here for you 24/7, providing professional, efficient, and friendly service to ensure your basement and your home are restored to their pre-damage condition. So, if water finds its way into your basement, remember, help is just a phone call away. Let us take the worry off your hands so you can get back to enjoying your home, safe and sound.

For expert water damage restoration in Licking County, trust the professionals at SERVPRO. We're ready to restore your basement and your peace of mind.

Water Flooded Your Tile Floor? Here's What to Do Next

8/1/2023 (Permalink)

Tile floors are durable and easy to clean from sweeping to dusting to mopping, but can they hold up if flooded? Discovering water flooding your tile floor can be a stressful and alarming situation for any homeowner. Whether it's due to a burst pipe, a faulty appliance, or heavy rain, immediate action is crucial to minimize damage and prevent further issues.

1. Ensure Safety First:

Before addressing the flooding, prioritize your safety. If the water level is high, avoid walking through it to prevent slipping or encountering electrical hazards. If necessary, turn off the main power supply to the affected area to reduce the risk of electrical accidents.

2. Identify the Source:

Try to identify the source of the flooding and, if possible, shut off the water supply to stop any additional water from flowing in. If the source is a burst pipe or appliance malfunction, turn off the water valve connected to the affected area immediately.

3. Remove Excess Water:

Use towels, mops, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much standing water as possible from the tile floor. The sooner you remove the water, the less likely it is to seep into the grout lines or cause damage to the subfloor.

4. Dry the Area Thoroughly:

Properly drying the tile floor and surrounding areas is crucial to prevent mold growth and further damage. Open windows and doors to encourage natural ventilation, and use fans and dehumidifiers to expedite the drying process.

5. Inspect for Damage:

Thoroughly inspect the tile floor for signs of damage. Cracked or loose tiles may indicate water has seeped underneath. If you notice any damage, consider contacting a professional to assess and repair the tiles and subfloor.

6. Clean and Sanitize:

Flooding can introduce contaminants into your home. Clean and sanitize the tile floor with a mild detergent to ensure a hygienic environment. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the tiles or grout.

7. Check Grout and Sealant:

Over time, grout and sealant can deteriorate, allowing water to penetrate the tile floor more easily. Check for any cracked or damaged grout lines and consider resealing the tiles to enhance water resistance.

8. Prevent Future Flooding:

After addressing the current situation, take preventive measures to reduce the risk of future flooding. Regularly inspect plumbing fixtures and appliances for leaks or malfunctions. Consider installing water leak detectors and investing in flood-resistant barriers for vulnerable areas.

9. Call SERVPRO:

In cases of significant flooding or extensive damage, it's best to seek professional help. A reputable water damage restoration service like SERVPRO can thoroughly assess the situation, provide comprehensive cleanup and restoration, and mitigate potential long-term issues.

10. Review Insurance Coverage:

Check your homeowner's insurance policy to determine if it covers water damage. Document the extent of the flooding and any damages for insurance purposes. Contact your insurance provider promptly to initiate a claim if necessary.

Facing water flooding your tile floor can be overwhelming, but swift and proper action is crucial in mitigating the damage. By following these steps and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can effectively address the issue, protect your property, and prevent future incidents. Remember, a proactive approach and timely response are key to minimizing the impact of water damage on your tile floor and ensuring a safe and resilient living space.

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.

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!

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. 

SERVPRO of Licking County Offers Quick Response

12/20/2021 (Permalink)

Residential water damage can be costly.

ERVPRO® of Licking County will respond quickly to your Water Damage Emergency

In general, your home is one of the largest investments you will make in your lifetime.  In order to protect your investment, you should always be on the lookout for household problems and address them before they worsen. One such dreaded homeowner issue is water damage.  If left unattended, a water damage in your home can cause detrimental damage to the structural components as well as your possessions. 

Fast Action saves $$$

When you are dealing with water damage, taking immediate action is crucial.  If you wait to deal with water damage in your home, the more damage it may cause. When water comes in contact with porous materials, they absorb the water and damage occurs. The longer the materials are exposed to the water can significantly affect the restorability of the material. The more damage, the more expensive the job becomes.  If emergency mitigation services are performed and the environment is stabilized with the utilization of our highly efficient drying equipment in a timely manner the.  

Time is of the essence when water damage occurs and you can count on SERVPRO® of Licking County to be there when you need us.  Call us today at 740-587-0938, we provide 24/7 emergency service. 

Winter, and Possible Water Damage, is Coming!

10/21/2021 (Permalink)

Across the nation, residents and business owners alike, have bid farewell to summer and are moving into fall with the inevitable winter close behind. These autumn months that welcome colder, crisper air also bring in excess rain and sometimes snow. Some cold seasons may be easier to prepare for than others, so if you find this is one of those under prepared seasons and that first big storm blows or floods right through your front, back or basement door; take a deep breath and call SERVPRO of Licking County.

Rain, sleet, snow or hail we will be at your home or business at a moment’s notice. Our highly trained water restoration technicians will bring not only our advanced drying equipment but also their expert, hands-on training, and techniques to assess any situation fast and help mitigate further damage. We have Disaster Recovery Teams at the ready, 24 hours a day on all 365 days of the year, across the nation for even the most gruesome of storms and damages. Your home or office will once again have the "Like it never even happened," feeling, not to mention documentation of our drying process to validate that your property and belongings are dry.

Even though winter is coming, rest assured knowing that SERVPRO of Licking County is coming too. Call us today with questions or for a quote at (740) 587-0938. Bundle up!

SERVPRO of Licking County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

Did You Know?

Water damage is one of the most common losses a homeowner will experience.  A water damage can have any number of causes, such as:

• A Weather Event
• Appliances
• Pipe Break
• Roof Leak
• Sink or bathtub overflow 
• Frozen Pipe

Even though the causes may be different, there is one thing that all water damages have in common.  They all require immediate action! 

In order to minimize the damage caused by water, it is important to begin emergency mitigation services and place drying equipment as soon as possible.  Delaying services can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

SERVPRO of Licking County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small.  We specialize in water damage restoration-in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.  Call our office today at 740-587-0938 to find out more.

What To Do When You Experience A Pipe Break

1/11/2021 (Permalink)

Broken or bursting pipes can cause a substantial amount of damage to your home or business. Because of this, it is important to have the problem taken care of as quickly as possible. Having a quick response can not only help minimize the amount of damage but can also prevent secondary damages. In a high-stress situation like this, it can be difficult to determine what to do, but the following steps will help put you on the right path.

• Identify the source of the water. 
• Turn off the main water valve. (Don’t turn back on until repairs have been completed.)
• Look out for and remove safety hazards. (If you can do so safely.) 
• Call SERVPRO of Licking County for water mitigation. 
• Contact your insurance company to start the claims process/establish coverage. 
• Take photos and document damage while waiting for help. 
• Clean up as much water as you can to prevent further damage. 
• Wrap wooden furniture legs in aluminum foil or place wood blocks underneath to protect them from water. 

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Ice Dam Damage and Preventative Tips

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

A somewhat common cause of water damages during the winter is ice dams. Ice dam build-up on a roof can cause water to pool behind it and leak into your home. 

Three ways ice dams can damage your property:

1. Heat collects in the attic and warms the roof, except at the eaves.
2. Snow melts on the warm roof and then freezes on the cold eaves.
3. Ice accumulates along the eaves, forming a dam. Melted water from the warm roof backs up behind it, flows under the shingles, and into the house.

It is important to take preventative measures before the problem arises. Here are some ice dam prevention tips to consider: 

• Add insulation in your attic. 
• Remove attic heat sources. 
• Insulate attic access doors. 
• Check the exhausts.
• Check flashing around the chimney. 

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

With Any Leak It's The Water You Don't See That Causes The Most Damage

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

A Small Leak Could Be A Big Problem. 

There’s no such thing as a small disaster - especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on subfloors, causing major problems over time. Instead of trusting untrained eyes, help ensure the value of your property by calling SERVPRO of Licking County. 

Areas that Can be affected by a small water leak: 

• Brick Exterior 
• Sheathing
• Wall Stud
• Insulation
• Interior Area
• Drywall
• Baseboard
• Carpet
• Carpet Padding
• Bottom Wall Plate
• Sub-Floor
• Floor Joist
• Sill Plate
• Basement
• Foundation 

The water damage you don’t see can affect these areas. 

At SERVPRO of Licking County, we have the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages set in. Our team is trained to safely clean and restore your property, utilizing the following procedures:

• Identify the Source/Type of Water
• Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
• Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises for Hidden Moisture
• Perform Emergency Water Extraction
• Move and Block Furniture & Contents 
• Inspect Carpet Pad/Carpet and Provide Service
• Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)
• Utilize Advanced Drying and Monitoring Equipment
• Dispose of Refuse

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Faster to your Licking County Water Damage Event

10/19/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Licking County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Licking County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 740-587-0938

Water Damage Timeline

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.

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Licking County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/31/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Licking County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today: 740-587-0938

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Licking County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Licking County

SERVPRO of Licking County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Meet Our Crew: https://www.SERVPROlickingcounty.com/employee-photos

Tips to Avoid Water Damage on Summer Vacation

7/9/2020 (Permalink)

In order to prevent water damage in the summer while on vacation, it's important that you prepare your home before you leave. Here are some helpful tips to keep your house protected from any water damage while you are enjoying your summer vacation.

Before you leave:

• Inspect your home  - Inspect for leaks or rusts in pipes, water heaters, windows, doors, roofs, and hoses.
• Clean out your gutters - Clean out debris to prevent water pooling and damage.
• Drain your pipes - Running the faucets in your home will ensure that pipes are relieved of any pressure
• Turn off water heater - Not only will this save you money but prevent any chance of the water heater having a problem.
• Shut off water supply - Shut the water supply off either at the main valve or at the most frequent sources (toilets, refrigerators, and washing machines).
• Install and test sump pump - Sump pumps should be tested annually as a preventative measure to keep them from failing.

While you are away:

• Have a friend or neighbor check on your house - To make sure that, if a leak does occur, it will be caught and stopped as quickly as possible.

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Water Damages and Your Insurance Coverage

7/24/2019 (Permalink)

Are You Covered? 

There is no worse nightmare than coming home and finding your house flooded. Your furniture, walls, carpet and belongings are soaking wet. You wonder, “Will my insurance help with water damage restoration?” 

Unfortunately, the answer is complicated and depends on your policy. Insurance policies vary from one company to the next. Water damage is one of the most common disasters your home can experience so it is important to make sure you have the necessary coverage if the need should arise. 

According to the Insurance Information Institute:

“Generally speaking, water that comes from the top down—such as rainfall and burst sprinklers—is covered by a standard homeowners policy.

Some policies cover sewer and drain backups, but many do not; however, you can purchase a sewer backup rider to your homeowners or renters coverage.

Typically, water that comes from the bottom up—such as an overflowing river—is covered by a separate flood insurance policy, which can be purchased from the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and from some private insurers.”

However, properly maintaining your home is one of the best ways to prevent water damage from happening. 

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Sump Pump Failure

5/17/2019 (Permalink)

If your sump pump fails, your Licking County basement could begin to fill with water.

If you have a basement, your sump pump is often your last line of defense against flooding. It works by safely diverting water away from your house and is especially important during times of heavy rain when it puts your home at risk of water damage. If your sump pump fails, you could find your basement under water. When this happens, it is important to act fast! Water damage can be a progressive issue and if not dealt with in a timely manner, this could lead to secondary damages. It is important to make sure your sump pump is in working order. Otherwise you risk the chance that It could fail when you need it most.

Avoid water damage with these helpful tips:

• After heavy rains, check the sump pump inlet screen for any blockages, one of the leading causes of sump pump failure.
• Occasionally, test your sump pump to ensure it is working properly. You can do this by filling the pit with water and watch to see if it is pumped away.  If not, you may have a problem.
• Check the float control to make sure it is free and not restricted or hung up.
• Replace the battery backup every 2-3 years.  

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Water Shut Off Valve

5/6/2019 (Permalink)

Do You Know Where Your Home’s Main Shut Off Is?

Knowing how and where to shut off your home's water supply is as important as knowing how and where to turn-off or reset an electric breaker or replace a fuse. Water leaks from burst pipes, water heaters, toilets, and sinks can cause significant damage in a short amount of time. In order to prevent costly damage, turn off the main water supply as soon as a leak, flood, or spill occurs.

The main water line valve to a house is usually located in the basement, utility area or an outside wall near the meter. However, there isn't a standard location specified in any home. If your home does not appear to have a shut off valve, call a local plumber and consider having one installed.  

At least twice a year, test all the valves in your home. Simply turn them completely off and on again to ensure they aren't stuck in place or include faulty parts. That way, if an emergency ever does occur, you can have peace of mind that you'll be able to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Clogged Gutters

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Clogged Gutters Cause Water Damages

Spring showers are in the forecast for Central Ohio over the next couple of weeks. While rain can cause water damage on its own, clogged gutters can cause additional issues. Gutters play a significant role in preventing water damage to homes. Their purpose is to channel rainwater to the downspouts and away from the home, protecting roofs, walls, and foundations of homes. To keep gutters working properly, it is important to make sure that gutters are cleaned regularly so that water can flow freely to the downspouts and away from the home.

During spring cleaning, one thing that often goes overlooked is your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause many issues for a homeowner. Water that is blocked by the debris in gutters will find the path of least resistance when it tries to drain. This often means it will find its way into the walls and ceilings of the home causing interior damage.

So how often should you clean your gutters? It is recommended that you clean your gutters AT LEAST twice a year!

If water damage has impacted your home or business, please call us at 740-587-0938. Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Outside Spigots

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Always Test Your Outside Spigots 

Winter is finally over and now you want to accomplish some yard work. However, as you turn on your outside spigot you realize that water is flowing INSIDE instead of OUTSIDE. 

What happened?

During the winter the spigot could have broken during the freezing temperatures. Immediately shut it off and call a plumber. Worst case scenario, if you did not catch it in time, call a plumber and then call us at SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. 

We receive many calls in the spring and early summer concerning spigots. Typically either ones that have been leaking awhile, or some that just decided to flood your basement now. Always test your outside spigots before watering your lawn or doing any yard work. This can keep them from backing up and causing water damage in your home. 

If you turn on your spigot and no problems arise, do not forget to shut it off when your are done! It's alright to water your newly created garden, but you do not want to water your newly finished basement! 

Call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938. 

Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Spring Showers

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Spring showers bring May flowers, but could also cause water damage. 

"With the beginning of spring, some of the country is finally thawing out and starting to see the first signs of the season. While the warmer temperatures and flowers are welcomed, one part of spring that no one looks forward to is flooding. While flooding can occur at any time of year, the spring is a particularly troublesome time of year as snow and ice melts and seasonal rains begin. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, flooding causes more damage than any other weather-related event, averaging eight billion dollars in losses and 89 fatalities annually."

The above information was quoted from https://disastersafety.org/ibhs-news-releases/ibhs-recommends-home-improvement-projects-reduce-flood-damage/ Please click the link to continue reading the online article.

We hope spring brings you more flowers and fewer showers, but if you experience water damage, you know who to call. SERVPRO® of Licking County understands the stress and worry that comes with a water damage and the disruption it causes your life and home or business. Our goal is to help minimize the interruption to your life and quickly make it "Like it never even happened."

If you would like to schedule service for your home or business, please call (740)-587-0938 today! 

What To Do Until Help Arrives: Water Damage

3/28/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage From Clean Water:

Do: 

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source. 
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock. 
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. 
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. 
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture. 
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors. 
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors. 
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature. 

Don't: 

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist. 
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining. 
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining. 
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner. 
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors. 
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. 

Water Damage From Contaminated Water: 

Do:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. 
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items. 

Don't: 

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas. 
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air. 
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas. 

Note: If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult your local health department or physician. 

SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938….here to help! Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

Water Damage Timeline

2/16/2018 (Permalink)

With the recent influx of rain we have received in the area, make sure you are checking your basement for water and that your sump pump is operating efficiently. The longer the water sits, the more damage that is caused. 

• Within minutes water into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. 
• In 1-2 hours drywall swells, metal surfaces tarnish, and furniture begins to warp/mold. 
• 48 hours - 1 week mold grows; doors and furniture warp; and metal begins to rust. 
• Over 1 week structural safety, mold growth, and bio-hazard contaminants pose serious risks. 

Don't wait until the damage is far worse than it was in the beginning! Call Now! 

SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938….here to help! Let our professional team do the cleanup with the proper procedures to keep you, your home or company safe.

The art of Psychometrics

3/28/2016 (Permalink)

While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a box fan or two around the damaged area, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals follow strict industry approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages.

Did you know?

SERVPRO professionals are trained in the art of Pysychometrics, a calculated science which reduces drying time by adjusting the locations and types of dehumidifiers as drying conditions change. 

Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Licking County  if you need our help, 740-587-0938.

Water Loss Tip

3/4/2016 (Permalink)

Many things are racing through your mind after a water loss. Stained carpet should not be one of them.

Avoid rust or furniture stains after a water loss by putting furniture and property contents onto blocks. 

Call SERVPRO of Licking County at 740-587-0938 if you need our help.

Did You Know?

2/26/2016 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes can cause more than property damage. Sewage water from a busted pipe may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that may cause serious illnesses. 

There are three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean water" is from a clean source like a broken water line; however, if left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3.

Category 2: "Gray water" may contain bacteria and viruses, and can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated.

Category 3: "Black water" comes from flooding rivers or sewer backup and may contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes. 

SERVPRO of Licking County is here 24/7 if you need our help.  Call us 740-587-0938.

Water Damage

2/4/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Licking County has been called to clean water in homes caused by broken pipes, rain storms, sinks left on, broken toilets and more.  Whatever caused the flood, SERVPRO of Licking County is available 24/7 if you need us!  We can be reached at 740-587-0938.