How to Repair Storm Damage to Your Home

2/3/2023 (Permalink)

Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or condo dweller, it's important to know how to deal with storm damage. Storms can cause severe damage to homes and make it harder for people to get back on their feet in their own homes after a disaster. This guide will help you prepare before storms hit and help you repair your home if there is damage after the storm passes.

Prepare for the Worst

The first step to recovery is preparation. Here are some tips to get you started:

Make a list of important documents, such as your insurance policy, medical records, and bank account information. Keep this list in a safe place just in case you need it later on. You can also store digital copies of these documents somewhere offsite if you have them on your computer or phone.

If you live in an area prone to flooding or storm damage, contact your insurance company and let them know where you are located. This will help ensure that they understand the risks associated with insuring someone who lives in such an area and can adjust their rates accordingly when necessary.

Store an emergency supply kit near your main exit point from the house so that it's easy to grab when needed (e.g., during storms). The contents of this kit should include water purification tablets/drop neutralizers, food rations sufficient for three days (including non-perishable items), canned goods for two weeks worth of meals (including meat), toiletries (toothbrush/paste etc.), clothing suitable for warm weather conditions (i.e., tank tops/shorts)

Evaluate the Damage and Document It

After the storm is over, you will want to quickly assess the damage. Start by documenting all of the damage with pictures. After you've documented the damage in detail and photographed it (with your camera or smartphone), make sure you keep copies of these images stored on a flash drive or other secure electronic storage device. This way, if there's ever an issue with your insurance claim you will have proof of the damage. They may need documentation of what happened within those first few days after the storm passed through your area and you want to make sure you have that readily available.

Cut Off the Power

If you have a home generator, turn it off at the main switch and make sure all gas lines are shut off. If you have an emergency power system, ensure that it is not connected to the grid by turning off the circuit breaker for your house and checking that no electrical panels are attached. Shutting off power can be dangerous because of the risk of electrocution or fire from electrical appliances. Therefore, it is important only to do so if a qualified professional recommends it or after giving yourself plenty of time to do so safely.

After turning off power in your home, check for potential hazards such as gas leaks (use a flashlight) and fire hazards (remove flammables). You may need to call emergency services if any such hazards exist before proceeding with repairs on your property.

If you suspect there has been damage due to high winds or other weather-related events like tornadoes or hurricanes, refrain from using any electrical appliances until they have been inspected by a licensed electrician

Contact Your Insurance Company

Your policy should tell you how to contact your insurance company, so be sure to have a copy of it on hand before you call. They will want to know what happened and how much the estimated damage is. Make sure they know that there could be additional costs if the storm caused flooding or other damage outside of what was immediately visible like broken windows or roof shingles coming off. If you aren't insured, then there's no reason for them to make any payments towards repairs because they won't get paid back by any third party (like the government). If this is the case, then expect that any expenses associated with fixing up your home will fall entirely on you!

Clean Up

Here are some tips to starting the cleanup process:

1. Remove any damaged furniture or belongings from your home.

2. Clean up any broken glass in the areas affected by flooding or severe hail and wind.

3. Make sure there are no exposed electrical wires before you begin cleaning up water and mud/dirt. If there is, shut off all power to the area where they are found and call an electrician immediately! Even if you don't know what circuit breaker turns off this particular switch, it's better to be safe than sorry when dealing with electricity!

4. Remove hazardous materials like chemicals, pesticides, oil-based paints or cleaners (as they may contain asbestos), gasoline/diesel fuel from tanks on boats/cars (as these can leak into groundwater), etc., as soon as possible by contacting a disposal company.

Dry it Out

You can use fans and dehumidifiers to start the drying process in your home. In most cases, if the damage is extensive, it is a good idea to call a professional like SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/Shaver Lake to get your Hendersonville, NC home dry. 

Repair or Replace?

A contractor will help you determine if the damage is something that can be repaired or replaced. If you have the skills and equipment, you may be able to do this yourself. You may need to hire a contractor if the damage is extensive and/or complicated in nature. Again, SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast/Shaver Lake can help with this process!

It doesn't matter what season it is or where you live—disasters can happen at any moment and can be caused by natural or human-made occurrences. No matter what kind of storm hits your home, safety should always be the first priority for everyone involved. If a storm comes through your area and causes damage to your home (or any other building), make sure that everyone stays safe until the danger has passed, and contact local authorities about getting repairs done as soon as possible.

These steps can help you get back on track after a storm, but if you’re in doubt about any of them, don’t hesitate to call your insurance company. Their experts can guide you through the process so that you can focus on recovery instead of worrying about paperwork or repairs.

3 Ways to Mitigate Roof Damage

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

When you live in Fresno NE/Shaver Lake roof damage may occur due to varying weather conditions. It's important to do what you can to mitigate any potential problems before they leave lasting damage to your home. Some things you can do include

1. Regularly Inspect your Roof

Performing a regular inspection of your roof can allow you to look for any water, storm or wind damage that may have occurred. Many experts recommend having an inspection performed biannually. You may also want to look a roof over after any severe storms or weather.

2. Take Care of Problems As they Occur

One important mitigation tip to keep in mind when dealing with roof damage is to take care of any problems as they occur. This may keep a small problem from turning into a larger issue down the road, and also keep you in compliance with your homeowner’s insurance policy. Additionally, making small repairs as necessary may help prevent a costly roof replacement down the road.

3. Contact a Professional

If you are unsure how to properly care for a roof, or what repair sets may be necessary for any damage you may find, then you may want to contact a storm damage restoration professional. A professional service often has the equipment, materials and tools necessary to perform any repairs as efficiently and safely as possible. They should also be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have about your roof.

If you're worried about roof damage to your Frenso NE/Shaver Lake home, you may want to consider taking some of these steps mitigate potential problems. Doing a regular roof inspection will it allow you to be aware of the condition of your roof and take care of any problems as they occur. If you have any doubt as to the severity of the damage or what steps may need to be taken, a professional may be able to help.

SERVPRO Can Dry Out Your Crawlspace

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

To dry out a crawlspace we first have to remove the water. Our SERVPRO technicians understand that can mean multiple, water-filled low spots. It can be difficult to bring in hoses even in a large crawl space to syphon out the pooling water. 
 
The next step is to lower the humidity as much as possible. Bringing in a dehumidifier is not usually an option, just like pump hoses. We can set up dehumidifiers with flexible plastic conduits to direct the moist air from the space to the exterior. We can also place containers with chemical desiccants in the crawlspace to absorb water from the air. If possible, we set up an air mover above the crawlspace and blow in warm, dry air to displace the damp air we attempt to draw out using an exhaust fan. 
 
Now that we removed the water, our technicians encapsulate the crawlspace once the moisture level and soil dampness have been reduced to normal levels. We cover the dirt floor with polyethylene sheets and a polyester mesh for reinforcement. This 12 mil plastic guard covering prevents moisture from leeching up from the ground. 
 
After a foundation expert finishes sealing the walls, the polyethylene sheets and polyester mesh floor are sealed to them with waterproof, foundation tape. 
 
Drying out a wet crawlspace is not an easy task. It takes a professional service to remove the water and prevent further intrusion from happening in the future. To see how we can protect your home, call SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake today at 559-797-4041

What You Can Do When a Storm Floods the Office Space of Your Fresno or Shaver Lake Home

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy rainfall can cause flood damage, especially during a particularly severe storm. There are many ways that water can get inside of your home or business during a storm, but one of the most common is debris. A storm with high winds can cause rocks, tree branches, and even lawn chairs to break the windows of your home or business, allowing floodwaters to seep inside. When the waters seep into your basement office space, it can seem like an utter nightmare. Your computer is there along with all of the electrical wiring to make your electronics function. Luckily, professional help is nearby to get your office back to its pre-storm state quickly.

Damaging flood water can seep into your Fort Worth home swiftly and soak into your belongings, such as the wood of your desk or the fibers of your carpet. Our technicians know how vital it is to respond to water damage as quickly as possible, as it worsens the longer it sits and can lead to mold growth. We strive to try and get to your home as soon as we possibly can after receiving your call so that we may begin the remediation process and remove the floodwaters causing damage.

SERVPRO can bring advanced tools like truck-operated pumps and powerful wet/dry vacuums to remove the water from your basement office space. We can use moisture meters to determine the level of moisture in the space and identify the most impacted areas. Afterward, we can employ the right tools to dry out your carpet, floors, the base of your walls, and the legs of your desk.

Floods can bring unsanitary water with them. SERVPRO can inspect and measure the safety of the water that has flooded your home. Should the water be toxic, we can rip up the carpets in your office and throw them out for you as they cannot be kept once contaminated. Afterward, SERVPRO can help you find a contractor to replace the carpeting in your office space. We strive to do whatever we can to return your home to its preloss stage.

When your home has been overrun with damaging floodwaters, do not wait. Call SERVPRO of Fresno NE/Shaver Lake at 559-797-4041. We can send our technicians to your home as soon as possible.

Managing Flood Damage

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Here are some tips you can follow to manage flood damage in your Fort Worth business:

Safety First!

• Do not enter the building until a professional has cleared it if you believe that it has been structurally damaged or if there a flood risk remains.
• Do not go anywhere near downed power lines or any standing water or metal objects near these downed wires. Stay away from damaged trees, and do not wade into floodwaters.
• Avoid using open flames, especially indoors. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• Once the worst has passed, assess any and all damage that the building has received. Inspect every part of the property for possible destruction, including machinery, making sure to avoid standing water or using electricity. 
• Do not climb onto your roof unless the building has been deemed structurally sound, and practice precaution when climbing and working on ladders.
• If using a chainsaw to cut fallen or damaged trees or branches, take precautions to ensure they do not cause any more damage when they fall.
• Remove any wet material, such as rugs or carpets, and properly dry them out to prevent mold from establishing itself. Dry your premises by opening windows and doors; it can be helpful to have fans running if it can be done safely. 
• You are at risk for mold within the first 24-48 hours following a flood, so it is vital to remove the water as soon as possible and start remediation. Flooding poses a risk to drywall, support beams, and foundations, as well, and floodwater can also contain dangerous contaminants and sewage so it must be avoided.
• Keep track of everything that was destroyed or damaged in the storm by documenting it through photos or videos along with putting together a list of broken items. You will need this list for insurance purposes.

Cleaning Up After a Leaking Roof

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

Water stains in dropped ceilings, tracking down the wall or dripping in a hallway are all signs that your commercial building has a roof leak. Even minor exposure can be a major inconvenience.

What Causes Roofing Leaks

As water flows outward from the leak point, its exact location can be challenging to identify. Some common causes include:

• Age of the roof
• Debris building up and trapping water against the roof
• Gutter backup slowing water flows off the roof
• Missing shingles that may have been ripped off in high winds

Water Damage Cleanup

Once the location of roof leak has been identified and the damaged roof fixed, it’s time to begin water damage cleanup. Depending on the site and severity of the leak, this can be extensive. Although each situation may be a bit different, some common steps must be taken.

1. Remove water-damaged materials.
• From the exterior: Shingles, tarpaper, plywood, flashing, etc.
• From the interior: Fiberglass insulation, drywall, dropped ceilings, carpeting/flooring, etc.

2. Dry water affected areas.
• If appliances or equipment were exposed to water, unplug them and let them air dry.
• Open windows if it’s less humid outside than inside.
• Use fans to speed the drying process.
• Check for mold growth.

3. Disinfect areas exposed to the water
• Wash nonporous hard surfaces such as glass, plastic, and metal with hot water and a non-ammonia soap
• Disinfect all exposed surfaces including wood beams and studs with a bleach solution.
• Clean soft surfaces such as furniture, window coverings and carpeting with a disinfecting cleaner

Recovering from a roof leak and restoring roof and ceilings can be a time-consuming, complex process. Water damage restoration specialists in the Fresno NE/Shaver Lake area, can ensure the process is done quickly and thoroughly, allowing you to get back to business.

What to Know About Black Water

9/3/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to dealing with flood water in the Fresno NE/Shaver Lake area, it's important to know that this type of water often falls into the black category. This can become a factor in many cleanup operations. It is important to understand where the water comes from and what to do if flooding occurs in your home or business.

Where Black Water Comes From

Contaminated water, otherwise known as black water, is any water that may have come in contact with fecal matter. This may include

• Sewer water
• Water from fields
• Toilet backup
• River run-off
  
  

Flooding falls into the black category because often there is no way to tell what it has come into contact with. In most cases, it is best to assume it has been contaminated and follow the proper sanitation procedures.

What To Do If Flooding Occurs

If you're busy with storm damage or flood water, it’s important to conduct any repairs necessary as quickly as possible. Doing so can help prevent further damage and may also help when it comes time to talk to your insurance. Since flooding is considered to be contaminated water, it's important to remember to sanitize the damaged area as well as to clean the zone.

How Your Insurance May Help

Depending on your policy your commercial insurance may cover the costs of cleanup and repairs related to flooding. They may even recommend a flood restoration service who can help with every step of the process. If you have questions about what exactly is covered by your policy, it's important to talk to your insurance agent.

Understanding that flood water falls into the black category can help you take proper sanitation measures when it comes time to clean up. Most experts recommend thoroughly drying the area, and then following recommended sanitation practices. In many cases, your insurance may cover the cost of restoration. If you have any questions, a professional may be able to help.

Thunderstorm Time

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

A thunderstorm is considered severe if it produces hail at least 1 inch in diameter or has wind gusts of at least 58 miles per hour. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people each year than tornadoes or hurricanes. Heavy rain from thunderstorms can cause flash flooding, and high winds can damage homes and blow down trees and utility poles, causing widespread power outages.

Know the Difference

Severe Thunderstorm Watch - Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.

Every year people are killed or seriously injured by severe thunderstorms despite advance warning. While some did not hear the warning, others heard the warning and did not pay attention to it. The information in this section, combined with timely watches and warnings about severe weather, may help save lives.

Winter Storms

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states, while others affect only a single community. Many winter storms are accompanied by dangerously low temperatures and sometimes by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Regardless of the severity of a winter storm, you should be prepared in order to remain safe during these events.

Know the Difference
Winter Storm Outlook - Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.
Winter Weather Advisory - Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.

Winter Storm Watch - Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.

Winter Storm Warning - Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

Trust SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake for your restoration needs.

What you can do to help!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

• Increase grade:  The earth around the home should be sloped away from the house to divert water away. Very simply, borrow earth from three feet away from the structure, and toss it against the side of the house thus creating the slope.
• Clean rain gutters:  Schedule a licensed professional to clean gutters annually. A clogged rain gutter can send water cascading down the exterior wall, which can result in water entering the interior walls.
• Divert down spouts: In a quick run to the local hardware store, homeowners can find a black, plastic corrugated 6-inch hose that fits around the base of the downspout. This device carries water away from the house, preventing it from seeping down into the foundation.
• Roof maintenance: Where rain is concerned, the roof is the first line of defense. One small tear in a rubber membrane or crack in a tin roof, or compromise in the plywood structure of the roof can prove disastrous for the entire interior of the home. But regular maintenance can preserve the life of the roof. Have a roofer check out your home every five years.
• Window repairs:  Proper window installation and maintenance is imperative. Modern windows are fitted with wells and drains designed to help direct water outside the house. Improper caulking can prove disastrous by sending water into the house that should be draining away from the window.
• Sweep away debris:  Especially during spring and fall seasons, when the area’s great trees emit pollen in tumble weed fashion and drop their leaves in mass, it is critical to diligently sweep outdoor surfaces weekly, especially patios and door wells to prevent the collection of debris clogging exterior drains.

When Storms Hit!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When Storms hit weather your in Fresno and Clovis, or in the mountains of Shaver Lake and Bass Lake, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake, 559-797-4041

How to Prepare for a Storm!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Things to do:

• Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
• Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
• Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
• If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake can handle storm damage to your business or home. Storm are unpredictable and so scary when your home is being affected. You can count on us help help get your home back and feel safe knowing when storms hit we can make it look "Like it never even happened."

If a Flood or Storm Hit SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake is Ready!

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Fresno Northeast / Shaver Lake specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources or Handle Floods and Storms

If storms hit Shaver Lake, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today at 559-797-4041