Where to Find Hidden Water Damage in Your Michigan Home | SERVPRO of North Calhoun County

9/7/2023 (Permalink)

If you have water damage in your home or business, contact SERVPRO of North Calhoun County today!

Water damage can be a real troublemaker. It's fast-moving, sneaky, and it can lead to some serious headaches. What's worse is that it often lurks in the shadows, showing up as mold, leaks, and expensive messes when you least expect it. But don't fret – there are ways to keep your East Lansing home safe from these hidden water damage threats.

Here's the lowdown on what to watch out for:

• Your Roof: Your roof can be a real trickster. It's not something you check every day, right? Water damage on the roof can sneak up on you slowly, starting as a tiny leak that you might not notice until it's a full-blown disaster. And if it seeps into your attic, well, that's a whole other can of worms. Mold loves to party in dark, damp attics.
• Your Bathroom: Bathrooms are notorious hiding spots for water damage. Sneaky leaks can form around sinks, and faucets can start doing their best impressions of mini waterfalls. Keep an eye out for puddles, extra moisture, and slow drains around your tub and toilet. Sometimes, these issues like to play hide and seek, so a little detective work can go a long way.
• Other Appliances: It's not just the bathroom – other spots in your Haslett house can hide water damage too. Large appliances can be culprits. Water can sneak under and behind them, causing trouble without you even knowing. Give your appliances a little shuffle from time to time and inspect for any signs of mischief.

And here's a bonus tip: make it a habit to check your plumbing regularly. Small issues can become big problems if left unchecked.

If you find yourself in a water emergency, don't sweat it. Our SERVPRO® team is ready to swoop in and save the day. We'll get your water-damaged home back in tip-top shape in no time. Your peace of mind is just a call away!

SERVPRO is IICRC Certified

9/9/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage can be deceptive. Water penetrates into structural cavities creating trapped pockets of saturation. The detection of water in these areas can often only be discovered with sophisticated moisture detection meters. Undetected moisture will continue to cause damage. This damage, at a minimum, will cause odors. Greater damage will surface when materials delaminate, shrink, split and further deteriorate to where costly repairs are required.

More than just removing excess water, IICRC-certified restorers have the knowledge and equipment to further dry a home or facility (including substructure materials) completely back to preloss conditions. Through timely response and the careful monitoring of water damage, mold and other health issues can be prevented. If water damage has been present too long, mold will occur.

All IICRC-certified professionals have the training and experience to identify moisture sources, evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected), contain damage, remove contamination and dry materials to ensure that mold will not return.

Water Extraction Is Only ONE Call Away - To SERVPRO

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Calhoun County.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and nor do we. SERVPRO  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 can be very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of North Calhoun will arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

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 bio-hazard contamination is possible.

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

SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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.

Do Your Windows Have Frost On Them?

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033

Window frost, it can be beautiful but it can also be damaging. So what causes window frost and how can you help to prevent it?

Window frost forms when the windows are exposed to the cold outside and moist air inside. Moisture in the rooms air(water vapor) is drawn to the window pane and when the outside temp drops past the dew point the water vapor begins to solidify, turning into liquid. This liquid then freezes into ice crystals and you've got frost.

Frost can cause damage. As it melts it transfers moisture to whatever is next to it, if that happens to be a wooden window it can discolor varnish and even crack the paint or damage the wood. Frost can also melt off single pane windows and seep down into a wall. If not handled swiftly and completely mold can begin to grow.

So what steps can you take to prevent window frost?

• Weatherize your windows when it starts to get cold. Make sure storm windows are installed properly and caulk any gaps in the seals.
• Run a dehumidifier. Drier air inside the home is less likely to allow frost to form.
• Keeping your home sufficiently warm, especially at night, helps to keep frost from forming. if you have a room that's especially prone to frost on the windows, it may be worth it to run a space heater in that room to see if that solves the problem.
• If all else fails, you may need to consider replacing all single pane windows in your home.

For more information on winter safety or information on mold growth and prevention call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County. We're available 24-hours to help make it "Like it never even happened." at 269-963-3033

Your Home Is Your Largest Investment, What Happens When Disaster Hits?

1/5/2022 (Permalink)

If disaster strikes your home or business, be sure to remember to call SERVPRO® of North Calhoun at 269-963-3033

Your home is likely the biggest investment that you will ever make and one that holds a lifetime of memories.

What happens if you wake up to see 2 inches of water in your kitchen?  What would you do?  Do you know who you would call?

We are SERVPRO® of North Calhoun and we have been serving homeowners and businesses like you since 1967.  

As a leader in the field of water damage repair and restoration, our crews are trained to help you when disaster strikes, they will help walk you through the drying process and help to make it #LikeItNeverEvenHappened.

If disaster strikes your home or business, be sure to remember to call SERVPRO® of North Calhoun at 269-963-3033

Don't Let Water Damage Slow You Down! Get Control Back!

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

A minor water leak can increase your repair bills. But the good news is that you can easily prevent such situations.

Do you know that water leaks can highly affect the sale of your home? What's more, they can be a concern for new home buyers. However, most homeowners are usually unaware of the hidden leaks. With cracked pipes, leaking spigot and broken seals water will easily creep into some places it isn't meant to go. The end results will be more visible damages which include rot, damaged flooring, and blistered paint.

A minor water leak can increase your repair bills. But the good news is that you can easily prevent such situations. Noticing a sagging ceiling above your dining room table is easier. When looking for water damages you have to remember that these damages rarely turn up at the water source.

Some damages to expect

- Mold and mildew growth. With water leaks, you should also expect an unhealthy environment.

- Permanent water damages to carpets, wood, wallpapers, furnishing and paint. 
- Contaminated systems – including the ductwork. 
- Insulation and drywall which need replacement and removal. 
- If there is water trapped somewhere in your house, poor airflow will become a major problem.

But don't worry, our technicians At SERVPRO of North Calhoun are always ready to check out problems and offer solutions.

SERVPRO of North Calhoun Is Here 24/7 For Your Water Emergency

10/13/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County providing emergency services, extracting water from a flooded basement floor.

SERVPRO OF North Calhoun County makes ourselves available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. Should you find yourself confronted with a water loss, fast and responsive action is vital. Prolonging mitigation of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of water damage.

Phones are always on 269-963-3033

SERVPRO understands that when you are reaching out for help with your water loss, you may be feeling confused, worried, and possibly helpless. You need an expert to help navigate you through this difficult time. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County has certified water damage training for just this type of situation. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

Leave it to us;

Once you place a call to us, we will ask a few questions, in regards to your water loss. This allows us to better assess the services you are in need of and what resources we might need to bring.

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 SERVPRO of North Calhoun County

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County specializes in water mitigation and restoration of residential and commercial property. 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.

When Water Overwhelms Your Basement, SERVPRO Is Here For You!

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

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 North Calhoun County 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

Call Today - 269-963-3033 SERVPRO of North Calhoun County will be happy to help.

We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to “Like it never even happened.”

Water got you down? SERVPRO is here to help!

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

Can you imagine coming home on a sunny afternoon, opening your door walking into your living room and finding it flooded. It happens, when it does SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is ready to respond.  We are ready to go any time of day or night.  

Our technician are thoroughly trained and IICRC certified to quickly respond and mitigate the loss to quality standards set by the industry. Our technicians will communicate with you every step of the way and answering any questions you may have. 

Leaving your home looking as if the loss never even happened. Delivering exceptional customer satisfaction for each and every customer. 

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is always here and happy to help.  If you should find you are in need of service call -  269-963-3033.

When Storms Rock Your World, SERVPRO of North Calhoun County Is Here For You

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

When storms hit, water can be a huge problem for you and your home or business. Because water damage is invasive it's important to call SERVPRO of North Calhoun immediately when dealing with a flooded basement. When you call, we will ask you several questions regarding your water damage emergency.

These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources including how many certified technicians we will need to bring to the job. SERVPRO of North Calhoun has the expertise and equipment to mitigate residency losses like this one. The quicker our certified technicians get on the job site the less water is absorbed by floors walls and furniture. Call SERVPRO at 269-963-3033 for any of your water emergencies! 

Why SERVPRO? We specialize in helping with the unforeseen!

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Within minutes after the water intrusion has begun, the water spreads quickly through home or business.  It will saturate everything within in its path. 

Water can be absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and personal belongings.  Permanent staining can occur on textiles and carpet.  Sentimental items such as photos, books, documents can swell, making them unsalvageable. 

In as little as 1 to 24 hours drywall begins to swell and break down, metal will start the onset of tarnishing. Your household furniture can begin to swell and crack.  Musty odors will begin to become apparent. 

In 48 hours to one week, mold and mildew may grow and rapidly spread.  Doors, windows, and studs start to swell and warp, causing structural issues. Metal will corrode and begin rusting.  Furniture will warp, as well as start showing signs of mold.  The paint will blister.  Wood flooring starts swelling and blistering. Not to mention, serious biohazard contamination is possible. 

SERVPRO of North Calhoun is always happy to help.

When Water Damage Strikes In North Calhoun County, SERVPRO Is Here For You!

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County understands that when reach out to us in a time of crisis, you may are experiencing feelings confusion, stress, and vulnerability. This is a time you are in need of a professional to help guide you through this stressful time. SERVPRO of North Calhoun County has the water training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the driving force of our business.

Here's What You Can Expect

When you call, we will pertinent questions regarding your water loss. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO professionals may be needed.

Questions You Will Encounter: 

• 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)?

About SERVPRO of North Calhoun County

SERVPRO of SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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.

Ask The Experts: Tips On Storm Damage

12/6/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding is a temporary overflowing of water onto land that is normally dry. Flooding may happen with only a few inches of water, or it may cover a house to the rooftop. There are many possible causes of floods including heavy rain or snowmelt, coastal storms and storm surge, waterway overflow from being blocked with debris or ice, or overflow of levees, dams, or wastewater systems, Flooding can occur slowly over many days or happen very quickly with little or no warning, called flash floods.

Flooding can occur during every season, but some areas of the country are at greater risk at certain times of the year. Coastal areas are at greater risk for flooding during hurricane season, while the Midwest is more at risk in the spring and during heavy summer rains. Ice jams occur in the spring in the Northeast and Northwest. 

SERVPRO Tips: What to do when flooding hits your home or business

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun wants you to be prepared in the event of a flood.

According to the Red Cross Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters. Flooding often occurs following a hurricane, thawing snow, or several days of sustained rain. Flash floods occur suddenly, due to rapidly rising water along a stream or low-lying area. Learn what to do to keep your loved ones safe!

Know the Difference!

A flood/flash flood WATCH means a flood or flash flood is possible.

A flood/flash flood WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. TAKE IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONS!

HAVE A PLAN:

• Talk with your family about what to do if a flood watch or warning is issued. Discussing floods ahead of time helps reduce fear, especially for younger children.

• Make sure you have access to NOAA radio broadcasts:
• Find an online NOAA radio station
• Search for an NOAA radio app in the Apple Store or Google Play
• Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA radio in the Red Cross Store
• Find out if local streams or rivers flood easily.

• Ensure that every member of your family carries a Safe and Well Wallet Card
• Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. You may need quick, easy access to these documents. Keep them in a safe place less likely to be damaged during a flood. Take pictures on a phone and keep copies of important documents and files on a flash drive that you can carry with you on your house or car keys.

SERVPRO of North Calhoun is available 24/7 269-963-3033, just a phone call away and always willing to help.

SERVPRO is here to help you through any/every disaster

9/10/2020 (Permalink)

Sometimes in the process of cleaning up a water damage, or really any kind of damage that SERVPRO handles: fire, storm, general cleaning, etc, we find secondary damage from any number of sources. Sometimes it is mold damage from if the water loss was left untreated for too long. However in this case it is damaged from a termite infestation. This is a rarer find than mold or asbestos but it does still happen. For some tips on how to prevent a termite infestation in your home please see the below information:

Keep all shrubbery near your home trimmed, allowing at least a 12-inch space between the plants and the exterior wall of your home. This will create airflow and allow damp areas to dry out quicker.
Use pine needles instead of mulch. Pine needles are less appealing to termites.
Keep all sprinkler heads pointed away from your home’s foundation. Termites like moisture and a sprinkler pointing toward your home create an ideal environment for them.

So give us a call! We are faster to any disaster and are here to help get you back to "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Tips: What to do when water invades your home

8/29/2020 (Permalink)

Your home is likely the biggest investment that you will ever make and one that holds a lifetime of memories.

What happens if you wake up to see 2 inches of water in your kitchen?  What would you do?  Do you know who you would call?

We are SERVPRO of North Calhoun County and we have been serving homeowners and businesses like you since 1967.  

As a leader in the field of water damage repair and restoration, our crews are trained to help you when disaster strikes, they will help walk you through the drying process and help to make it #LikeItNeverEvenHappened.

If disaster strikes your home or business, be sure to remember to call SERVPRO® of North Calhoun at 269-963-3033

#SERVPRO9188 #NoWorries #SERVPRO

Water Damage in Calhoun County?

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

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 North Calhoun 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 – 269-963-3033

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.

About SERVPRO of North Calhoun County

SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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.

SERVPRO IS IICRC CERTIFIED, ALWAYS HAPPY TO HELP WITH WATER DAMAGE.

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is happy to help with severely buckled floor following overhead water intrusion.

Water damage can be deceptive. Water penetrates into structural cavities creating trapped pockets of saturation. The detection of water in these areas can often only be discovered with sophisticated moisture detection meters. Undetected moisture will continue to cause damage. This damage, at a minimum, will cause odors. Greater damage will surface when materials delaminate, shrink, split and further deteriorate to where costly repairs are required.

More than just removing excess water, IICRC-certified restorers have the knowledge and equipment to further dry a home or facility (including substructure materials) completely back to pre loss conditions. Through timely response and the careful monitoring of water damage, mold and other health issues can be prevented. If water damage has been present too long, mold will occur.

All IICRC-certified professionals have the training and experience to identify moisture sources, evaluate mold growth (visible or suspected), contain damage, remove contamination and dry materials to ensure that mold will not return.

Is it worth filing a claim?

2/12/2019 (Permalink)

Sometimes initial water damages can create secondary losses also!

The average cost for a homeowner to repair and/or restore water damage that has happened to their home is between $2,000 and $5,000.  There are several factors that weigh in on this cost, mostly the extent of damage and the cause or type of damage that has occurred.  Obviously, the faster the water is extracted and the area dried, the less damage and less cost incurred.  Preventative maintenance and general upkeep on a home reduces the chances of a water damage loss and is much less expensive. 

Other factors that affect the cost are the category and classifications of the water damage.  There are 3 categories:

• Category 1- Clean Water – often comes from drinking sources, such as a leaky faucet, leaky toilet tank, rain and sprinklers, burst pipes or water heaters.
• Category 2- Grey Water – can cause some health threats as it can contain harmful contaminants that may cause a minor illness. Grey water can quickly become a serious threat due to the potential for growth of mold and bacteria.  Sources include overflowing dishwashers and washing machines or toilets containing urine or cleaning agents.
• Category 3- Black Water – Can cause serious health threats or possibly even death. Sources are sewage backups, flooding, or storm surges.

There are also 4 different classes the water loss will be assigned.  This classification is dependent upon how intense the cleanup is.  These classes are:

• Class 1- The easiest and usually the most inexpensive to clean and repair, indicates only a section of a room is affected with very little wet carpeting. Often repairable by the homeowner themselves.
• Class 2- This is when an entire room has been affected, including the walls up to 12 inches. Moisture remains in the structure and will need cleanup as well as some repairs.
• Class 3- This class has saturated ceilings, walls, floors, and even the subfloor and insulation. Often times the moisture has come from above, like a burst pipe.
• Class 4- This damage is often a result of a river flooding or storm surges. It has saturated materials like stone, brick and hardwood.  This is the most severe classification.

So as you can see the cost increases with the amount of damage incurred, the length of time since damage did occur and what caused the damage.  The average cost being a minimum of nearly $2,000.00 for a small water loss claim, and a maximum cost being unknown depending on significance of the damage. 

As a homeowner, you ask if your insurance company will cover the loss. Most insurance companies require you to purchase separate flood coverages.  Some other extra coverages that can be purchased are: additional replacement cost, debris removal, tree removal, trees, shrubs and other plants, fire department service charges, credit card-fund transfer card forgery- and counterfeit money, ordinance and law coverage, personal property endorsements, and water backup and sump pump overflow.

As a rule, most policies cover damage that is deemed to be sudden and internal.  This typically means damage from a burst pipe, faulty or frozen plumbing, accidental overflow of an appliance or fixture, water damage caused from extinguishing a fire, and seepage into the house from a leaking roof (however the roof itself is not likely to be included in the coverage), damage from rain or a snow storm, and from mold that results from damage from one of the above perils.  Water damage caused from vandalism is likely to be covered.

On the other side of this rule, even though rain damage is covered, a general rule is if it hits the ground first before causing damage to your home, it will not be covered.  This not only considers flooding, but also just a mere rise in the water table caused from rain.  Separate flood coverage is recommended.  Another general rule is that damage from water that enters the home through plumbing is not covered.  Aside from the considerations of additional coverages, if the insurance company deems the damage to be ultimately caused by negligence, then they will not cover it.  Preventative maintenance is crucial to not only preventing damage but also to ensuring it is covered in the event damage occurs. 

 In the event that you do suffer a water damage loss at your residence, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County (269) 963-3033 for an immediate response to any size disaster at any hour of any day, even holidays.  We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Ways to Prevent Water Damage to your Property...

2/11/2019 (Permalink)

Any pipe can crack whether it is inside or outside of a building,

Water can and will find its way into any opening it can, sometimes even creating the opening itself.  Taking small preventative measures and properly maintaining your home can help save you money, time and irreplaceable heirlooms.  Here are some steps you can take to protect your home or business from unwanted water damages, repairs and insurance claims.

EXTERIOR PREVENTATIVE MEASURES:

• Ensure proper drainage from your foundation. This includes ensuring your landscaping slopes away from the foundation of your home or building and any drainage pipes are set correctly and are not damaged.  It also means you need to keep your gutters cleaned out throughout the year and that the downspouts are at least five to ten feet away from the structure to ensure the water will flow away from it.  Installing gutter guards is often a good measure to help prevent the gutters from getting clogged with leaves and other debris.
• Inspect your roof semi-annually. Checking the integrity of the roof’s structure itself and ensuring the shingles are all secure and check for algae, moss or lichen buildup, maybe even consider having your roof cleaned professionally.
• Keep your crawlspace puddle free. If you have a crawlspace, it is important to ensure you do not have any water puddling underneath your floor so a damp environment that will lead to the development of mold, rot, mildew or insects doesn’t occur.
• Maintain trees and vegetation. It is important to know where your utility lines and/or pipes run underground to ensure your trees and shrubs do not damage them with their roots. Some species are very invasive and will grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage fields, pipes and septic tanks.  A safe distance for invasive species in usually about 20 feet from the pipes or house, otherwise 10 feet is usually a safe distance for clearance.
• Check Sprinkler and Irrigation systems. Check your irrigation or sprinkler systems to make sure they are not leaking and pooling water near the foundation or damaging the siding of your home. ALWAYS ensure you have disconnected and winterized your lines for states that have freezing winters.
• Cracks in the foundation. Concrete cracks, it is inevitable. You should periodically check your foundation for cracks.  If it is a minor crack, concrete caulk, if it is a little bit larger crack, then a concrete patch should suffice.  You should also ensure it is not being caused by a more serious problem, such as invading roots, which can cause you to need professional help.

INTERIOR PREVENTATIVE MEASURES:

• Always know where your water main is located! This can keep any interior flooding to a minimum as you can turn it off from the main source and allow yourself time to locate where the leak is coming from.
• Maintain your appliances. Sometimes our appliances can malfunction or become old and have issues and if they use water, it can lead to a flooded room. Checking your appliances routinely will help reduce any undetected leaks and damage.
• Install floor/drain pans. Using a floor or drain pan can help prevent a minor leak from causing significant damages. 
• Upgrade your washing machine hoses. Washing machine leaks are among the most common causes for water damage losses in homes.  It is recommended to replace your washing machine hose every 5 years, even possibly consider getting a flood safe house.  If the hoses are old, bent, brittle, crimped or leaking then they should be replaced immediately.
• Inspect your other appliances that may use water. Refrigerators that have ice makers or water dispensers can often have a leaking water line. Water Heaters can rust out and cause leaking as well as faulty water outlets and drain valves.  Ensuring these stay maintained will help prevent a water damage loss.
• Air conditioner units are another main source. Usually A/C Units are out of sight, therefore out of mind.  It is important to perform regular maintenance and inspect them properly, especially in summer months when they are working overtime.
• Seal all doors and windows. Ensuring the caulking is not cracked and dried out and that the weather stripping is in place will help prevent an avenue water, snow and ice can enter through and cause destruction.
• Inspecting hoses, faucets, sinks and spigots. When checking for leaks it is recommended to check in the cabinets that lie under these areas for any leaks or water staining. Using 100% silicone caulking can help prevent these leaks.
• Monitor your water bill. Keeping an eye on the amount of water you are being billed for use of is an excellent way to notice if there is an increase in fluctuation. An increase that you are not aware of will indicate there is water going somewhere and should prompt you to look for it.

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County is faster to any size disaster and will make it “Like it never even happened.”  Call us today for help with your water damage at (269) 963-3033.

Tips to Help During Flooding Events

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Calhoun County and surrounding area.

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 North Calhoun 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 – 269-963-3033

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.

About SERVPRO of North Calhoun County

SERVPRO of North Calhoun 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.

Overhead Frozen Pipe

9/4/2018 (Permalink)

One of our customers experienced frozen pipes while in Florida. SERVPRO of North Calhoun made it "Like it never even happened." before he returned.

Winter is soon to be upon us.  Ensure that SERVPRO of North Calhoun's number is readily available. In the event you should experience a frozen pipe. 

SERVPRO of North Calhoun can make it like it never even happened!

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 269-963-3033

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 North Calhoun 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)?

How to protect your sewer from a backup.

2/27/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Calhoun County 269-963-3033

Clogged sewers can wreak havoc on your home, but you can help to prevent that from happening. Learn the causes of sewer backups, what you're responsible for maintaining as a homeowner and how to protect against sewer backups.

You may not realize that you are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the sewer lateral, a privately owned pipeline connecting a property to the publicly owned sewer pipeline, usually located in the street.

-Sewer-lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner, this responsibility includes any part of the lateral  that extends into the street.

The first step in preventing sewer backups is knowing what causes them, so here is a list of the most common causes of sewer backups.

Aging Sewer Systems

• The American Society of Civil Engineers indicates that the nations 500,000 miles of sewer pipelines are on average over 30 years old. As the numbers of homes connected to already aging sewer systems increases the occurrences  of sanitary sewer backups is rapidly increasing.

Combined Pipelines

• Combined systems, these combine storm water and raw sewage, have problems arise especially during rain storms. The systems are exposed to a larger volume than they are capable of handling. This then results in a sewer backup, this usually causes sewage to spew out in basements or other low lying drains.

Tree Roots

• Service pipe joints and sewer pipeline cracks create the perfect opportunity for small roots of trees and shrubs to make their way in. This can cause extensive damage or blockages as they grow larger. If the tree is on private property the owner of the property and tree may have to cover the cost of the sewage clean up. If the issue results from city and private trees the cost is then split between the city and property owner.

Sanitary Main Blockages

• Blockages can occur in a city sanitary main, if not detected this can cause sewage to back up into your home or business. Typically this happens slowly and generally have early indications of such problems.

Preventing Sewer Backups

Properly dispose of grease

• Washing grease down a drain with hot water is not recommended, cooking oil should be poured in a heat resistant container and disposed of. As the grease cools, it solidifies in the drain or sewer pipelines. This causes the lines to constrict and eventually will clog.

Properly dispose of paper products

• Hygienic wipes, paper towels and feminine products do not deteriorate quickly and can produce a great deal of trouble in sewer pipelines.

Maintain tree roots

• If tree roots are causing problems in your sewer lateral, you may want to consider have the tree removed by a professional.

Replace pipelines with plastic pipes

• Plastic actually prevents tree roots from entering the pipeline

Correct illegal plumbing connections

• Connecting your sanitary sewer to French drains, sump pumps and other flood control systems is illegal. This actually allows debris to clog your pipeline. Contact a plumber to correct any pre-existing illegal connections.

Install a backwater prevention valve

• This valve prevents sewer backflows and is installed into the sewer pipeline, it can sometimes be installed into a drain line in the basement of your home or business.

If you find yourself in a situation with a sewer backup, keep in mind they are considered very dangerous. The water is extremely unsanitary and may contain bacteria and viruses that could lead to serious illness. Failing to properly remove such substances could contribute to an unhealthy and dangerous environment.

Most Common Causes of Indoor Flooding

2/19/2018 (Permalink)

The fact that your property is filled with pipes bringing water in and out of the building might not be something you think much about. Whether its the sink you wash your hands in, the washing machine that cleans your clothes or the dishwasher cleaning your dishes, you need a constant flow of water to keep your home running smoothly. But, that much water can also mean a decent chance of indoor flooding.

Indoor flooding is one of the leading causes of water damage and can require basic plumbing repairs and water damage restoration services. To help you combat floods when they strike, here are the most common causes of indoor flooding.

Leaky or broken pipes

The most obvious cause is leaky or broke water pipes. Pipes can burst thanks to changes in water pressure or faulty setup, regardless of the cause pipe problems often cause flooding.

A broken pipe can flood your home in a matter of minutes, filling your property with water that will require water damage repairs and even carpet cleaning services depending on where the burst occurs. Meanwhile a leaky pipe is a warning sign of problems to come and will require a plumber to fix. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for mold, requiring the likes of SERVPRO of North Calhoun's mold remediation to combat.

Leaking Water Heaters

A standard water heater is designed to constantly fill itself, providing you with warm water while showering or washing dishes. Having a leak in your water heater can cause a major disaster.

Even a small leak can cause extreme flooding due to its endless flow of water. Inspecting your water heater and keeping up with its maintenance helps to prevent leaks.

Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines

Water needs to be able to flow to and from your house with ease. That flow can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Clogs that seem benign, allowing a slow drain, may seem to merely be an inconvenience. But, those clogs can become much worse, with the potential to cause your sinks, toilets and showers to overflow with water. This can result in big floods that cause even bigger damage. Make sure to contact a plumber if you notice a minor clog, this way you can keep your problem from getting worse.

Faulty Washing Machine Hose

Washing machines are extremely convenient, allowing you to free up your schedule by cleaning clothes with ease. But, like all appliances that use water, a malfunctioning washing machine can cause flooding.

Faulty washing machine hoses are the most common problem. A leak in your intake hose-the hose that brings water to the machine- can worsen over time and cause flooding in your home. There are steps you can take to keep your washing machine safe, like installing a washing machine valve shut off kit, but there will always be a chance of your machine causing a flood.

Floods in your home or business can't be controlled. Thankfully, if you can recognize the common causes of indoor flooding, you'll be prepared to prevent floods before they happen and be able to handle them if they do.

If you find yourself in need of water damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of North Calhoun County, available 24-hours a day, at 269-963-3033

Water Damage From Contaminated Water.

9/1/2017 (Permalink)

Sewage back ups can happen to anyone! Here are a few Do's and Don'ts to keep you safe until SERVPRO can get there to assist you with cleanup.

  DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated from 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.

Toilets are not the only source of a sewage back up, back ups can also happen in bath tubs and drains in the basement. If you're not sure if it's contaminated water please call SERVPRO to check it out instead of inspecting it yourself. Call today 269 963 3033