Various Water Cleanup Procedures for Harrisonburg Properties

3/3/2024 (Permalink)

The best advice to mitigate water damage to your Harrisonburg home? Call SERVPRO. We are Here To Help®

Standard and Specialized Actions Necessary to Contain Water Damage

The vibrant city of Harrisonburg, VA, lies in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley and has gained popularity as a bicycle-friendly community. It has many bike lanes and trails and organizes regular cycling events like the Rockstar Challenge and Rocktown Rambler. Its historic downtown area features boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It's a culturally diverse city of 51,814. Renowned local community events include Rocktown Beer & Music Festival and Skeleton Festival.

Surprisingly, water cleanup at your Harrisonburg property can be a tedious process. You may expect everything to return to normal once you address the leak and remove any remaining water. However, other issues develop in many incidents, necessitating additional processes to restore preloss conditions. SERVPRO® readily intervenes when such a problem affects your property, ensuring every necessary action is taken.

Typical actions necessary after water intrusion

• Cleaning floors
• Drying carpets and upholstery
• Inspecting and replacing deteriorating materials
• Preventing mold

Cleaning floors where most water collects is necessary to remove the soiling left by setting residues such as dissolved dust and dyes. Water incidents also leave many materials wet, with carpets and upholstery most affected. Drying them requires a reliable way to reach the moisture concealed deep within the layers of materials. Upholstery items may also combine different classes of materials like wood and fabrics, complicating the drying process further. SERVPRO crews tackle these steps conveniently using sophisticated equipment such as rotating brushes and dehumidifiers.

After cleaning up the visible soiling, your property may still need attention, especially in concealed areas where microbes may develop, leading to mold and foul odors. Our SERVPRO teams incorporate mold prevention in cleaning by applying broad-spectrum antimicrobials on the underside of carpets after cleaning. We also inspect ceiling and wall cavities for any trapped water which can cause significant deterioration over time. Controlled demolition steps such as drilling weep holes or making flood cuts are necessary to reach deteriorating insulation.

Other essential steps to facilitate cleanup

• Wiping down electronics
• Cleaning furniture
• Cleaning and inspecting HVAC ducts

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties offers reliable water cleanup services. Call us at (540) 433-6100.

Harrisonburg Water Damage Restoration Saves Water-Impacted Homes

9/10/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage in your home is not easy to deal with. Call SERVPRO 24/7 for professional services.

Expert Water Damage Restoration in Harrisonburg

Harrisonburg is a growing university city where stately old homes mingle with all of the new structures going up every day. That said, both historic and recently built residences are at risk of water leaks and the damage they can cause. Oftentimes, these troublesome issues start in bathrooms and kitchens, where there are extensive plumbing networks, toilets, bathtubs, sinks, and household appliances. 

Over the years, SERVPRO has performed top-notch water damage restoration work for countless Harrisonburg homeowners. Interestingly, more times than not, our emergency water damage services technicians have been called out to remediate problems arising from water leaks in bathrooms and kitchens. SERVPRO has found that these situations often develop over a long period of time and produce significant damage without residents even realizing it. Sometimes, however, these water events occur suddenly and their impacts are catastrophic. A few examples of the property impairments we typically encounter are:

• Deteriorated caulking around bathtubs, shower stall tilework, and flooring tiles that eventually leads to water-saturated subflooring and ceiling leaks on lower floors
• Condensation-impacted paint, wallpaper, walls, and ceilings that have fungal growths or been significantly weakened by moisture/dry rot
• Old or damaged wax seals around toilet bases that enable wastewater to seep out, saturate flooring and harm it
• Leaky or burst pipes in cabinets under sinks that cause puddling, foster mold development, and otherwise damage building materials and structural elements

In order to address these common water damage remediation problems, we offer a host of water removal services and water damage repairs. Once our IICRC-certified experts have completed their work, homes have often been returned to their pre-event state.

Considering this, it is obvious that SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties has the experience necessary to effectively handle all of your water damage restoration needs. So, contact us at (540) 433-6100 whenever you need our assistance.

Get the Best Water Damage Cleanup in Harrisonburg with SERVPRO

5/4/2023 (Permalink)

Our techs are ready 24/7, 365 days a year.

Count on SERVPRO for Expert Water Damage Restoration in Harrisonburg 

Water damage in Harrisonburg is a common maintenance issue homeowners face. A water issue can wreak havoc on your property if not addressed promptly, whether due to burst pipes, ceiling leaks, or faulty plumbing. 

Hiring professionals like SERVPRO to restore water damage to your Harrisonburg home can prevent long-term aesthetic and structural damage. We use industry-leading technology and state-of-the-art equipment to restore your home "Like it never even happened."

Air Moving Equipment Used in Water Damage Remediation

The effects of water damage can be immediate or occur gradually over time, depending on the water's source and the extent of the damage. Removing the residual moisture as quickly as possible is the best way to protect your property against such problems. 

SERVPRO techs use a combination of dehumidifiers and air movers to create ideal drying conditions. Dehumidifiers reduce the humidity of the air, while the air movers help to speed up the drying process in the following ways:

• Generate high-speed airflow across wet surfaces, removing the boundary layer to accelerate evaporation. 
• Help to circulate warm and dry air from dehumidifiers 
• Help dry structural cavities and other hard-to-reach areas

How Restorers Increase the Efficiency of Air Movers?

Techs increase the efficiency of air movers by strategically placing them in the affected area and adjusting the airflow direction. Generally, techs run air movers for at least 24-48 hours after the initial water damage occurs. However, the exact amount of time needed to dry out the area depends on factors such as the type of water damage, the size of the affected area, the humidity levels, and the temperature of the space.

Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100. We are available 24/7 to help when you need us the most.

Mitigating and Restoring Harrisonburg Water Damage

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO's advanced equipment mitigates the water damage in Harrisonburg homes "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Responds Fast to Water Damage Concerns

Urgent action is necessary for many situations involving water and leaks in your home. Mitigation is vital to protecting the property and its contents from the irreparable harm resulting from unresolved water emergencies. Initial actions to recover residences after disasters can include:

• Water Removal
• Content Cleaning
• Controlled Demolition
• Mold Prevention

No mitigation for Harrisonburg water damage is efficient without getting the process started as soon as possible. Because each of these elements is unique to the overall restoration of a house, SERVPRO professionals can respond at the first notice of loss with our Green Fleet of service vehicles, production trucks, and trailered equipment. 

Focusing on Rapid Containment

Containment is one of the first actions that our professionals will take after situations like burst pipes or water leaks. Protecting areas of the house not yet damaged by migrating moisture and standing water concerns is essential. While physical barriers can be partially responsible for stopping water movement in the home, mitigating steps like water removal services instantly benefit the property and at-risk building materials.

Needed Extraction Solutions

Water removal services provide the most trackable and recognizable impact to improve conditions in a structure after water emergencies. Eliminating surface water is the utmost priority for our team, as prolonged exposures can compromise structural integrity, cosmetic quality, or allow secondary effects like mold. Tools used include:

• Submersibles - These machines are meant to be dropped into standing water and use high-pressure vacuum systems to pull water through the unit and discharge it to a designated point. 
• Vacuums - These portable extractors eliminate surface water when it is only a couple of inches in depth or less. The versatility of vacuums makes them a preferred water removal tool. 
• Special Tools - When vacuums and pumps are no longer effective, specialty tools like weighted extractors and light wands help when water becomes trapped.

Effective Drying for the Structure

Much like extraction, drying requires several tools and approaches to be successful. Our SERVPRO IICRC-certified professionals rapidly evaluate environmental conditions and the state of impacted building materials to provide the best solutions for issues like:

• Wet Surfaces - Surface water is among the easiest to target and resolve. Air movers and portable heaters are essential tools for the effective evaporation of wet surfaces. We can daisy chain multiple air movers together to lessen the need for available outlets.
• Trapped Water - Water can migrate through the property quickly, infiltrating areas like structural cavities and becoming trapped. Weep holes allow for drainage and airflow, but it will be positive and negative pressure systems to have a direct impact on this threat.
• Saturation Damage - Prolonged moisture exposure to porous materials leads to absorption concerns. Drying mats and other evaporative equipment can help pull moisture to the surface for extraction. This is especially effective with wood flooring water damage, allowing us to protect planks from becoming distorted or warping when water chemically alters the molecular composition.

Is SERVPRO Ready for Repairs and Build-Back?

Our general contractor license is among the main advantages of looking to SERVPRO for post-water damage repairs and restoration. Because these emergencies typically require rebuilding or reconstructing impacted areas, this experienced division of our roster seamlessly transitions to post-restoration construction.

Harrisonburg water damage incidents require swift action from experienced restoration professionals. As leading restorers for the large service region we represent, we are a trusted name to help in an emergency to make it "Like it never even happened." Give our SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties team a call at (540) 433-6100.

Water Restoration in Your Harrisonburg Residence is Better with SERVPRO

12/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO understands how important your home is. Let us help you out.

Get a Professional for Water Restoration in Harrisonburg

Home maintenance is a homeowner's most considerable responsibility regarding repairs, remodeling, and even protection against disasters. However, dealing with water damage is more challenging. When left untreated and unchecked, it increases the chances of weakening the structural integrity of a house.

SERVPRO has a fully equipped group of vehicles for water restoration in affected Harrisonburg homes. The damage can come from the outside of the house or the inside. Damage can also happen because of water entering a house due to faulty structures. On the other hand, interior water damage may result from leaks and cracks in fixtures, appliances, and systems like plumbing, shower, and bathtubs.

For SERVPRO technicians to complete the restoration process in the best way possible, we take several steps, including the following: 

• Performing an inspection to evaluate the damage.
• Water mitigation to reduce the amount of damage that can happen to your home.
• Drying and dehumidification to eliminate water vapor.
• Deodorization to remove unpleasant odors. 

Our initial steps mainly involve extracting standing water and removing affected items and materials from the house to restore the salvageable ones and dispose of the rest. After this, we ensure that our technicians' work site is safe. This process involves combining different techniques and equipment, depending on the situation. Some of the equipment our SERVPRO team can use in this stage include dehumidifiers, hydroxyl generators, and disinfectants to kill airborne microorganisms.

When we complete the restoration, SERVPRO can install additional ventilation systems to ensure the air is always fresh. We can also install flooring materials that can withstand moisture and apply mold-resistant paints to safeguard your house's safety in case a disaster strikes again.

Contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100 for efficient water removal services. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Why You Need Proper Water Damage Restoration in Harrisonburg

5/8/2022 (Permalink)

When your toilet or bidet overflows, you need help fast! Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for effective water removal and water damage restoration services.

Harrisonburg Residents Affected by Water Damage Call SERVPRO

Water damage can occur slowly from a leak that goes unnoticed for a while or rapidly from a burst pipe or overflowing toilet. You can prevent this kind of damage with timely intervention from a reliable restoration company that can address various water damage issues. Professionals ensure that water extraction and repair services are performed promptly after water issues affect your Harrisonburg property.

Extraction is an important aspect during water damage restoration in a Harrisonburg home. Although some things are more susceptible to instant destruction after a water intrusion, a timely repair can prevent extensive damage. SERVPRO professionals have modern equipment to restore your home to preloss conditions effectively.

Important steps in the event of water intrusion

• Identifying the source of moisture
• Preventing further moisture intrusion
• Documenting damage
• Determining whether contents and structure are dry

Repair measures taken by experts 

Following water infiltration, the SERVPRO crews help identify the source of moisture and take measures to prevent further intrusion. We conduct an assessment and document all damaged areas, including building materials and furnishings. We can determine the best way to repair the damage by thoroughly assessing the situation. Also, we are keen to identify moisture under cabinets and other furnishings.

Drying a structure and its contents involves dehumidifiers and air movers to remove moisture from your home walls, floors, and hidden spaces. Air movers circulate large volumes of air, ensuring evaporation is much faster. Dehumidifiers remove moist, humid air from the structure to the unit and discharge dry, warm air from the unit back to the affected areas. Dry air acts as a sponge absorbing moisture from wet materials. Therefore, moisture-deficient air exhausted from the dehumidifier is blown back into the room.

Factors affecting the usage of a dehumidifier

• The extent of damage
• Space
• Level of humidity

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is just one call away and responds quickly and effectively to restore any water damage at your home. Call us at (540) 433-6100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Can Harrisonburg Area Water Restoration Companies Do?

3/3/2022 (Permalink)

Leaking ceilings can have many causes from storms to broken pipes. Let SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties help you.

Call SERVPRO, One of the Best Water Restoration Companies in Harrisonburg!

Rather than grabbing a mop and bucket for water emergencies in your home, you should know that professional restoration is often best. Even though there are many projects you can DIY, water damage should not be one of them. To ensure your Harrisonburg home gets back to normal fast, you need experts to help. SERVPRO follows detailed guidelines for water removal services, drying, and restoration to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Even though videos online claim to tell you how water restoration companies in Harrisonburg handle water cleanup from burst pipes or ceiling leaks, they often fail to tell you about hidden moisture, mold growth, and the dangers of secondary damage. These are just some of the reasons it is better to leave water cleanup to the pros:

• Hidden Moisture/Damage – Most water damage in the home will not be evident to the untrained eye. Moisture can build under carpeting, behind walls, and other areas. SERVPRO uses moisture detection tools to find hidden moisture behind walls and other hard-to-reach spaces.
• Cost – While the cost of water mitigation/restoration may seem high initially, it will save you money in the long run. It is best to have it done right the first time rather than paying someone to come in and fix mistakes.
• Health and Possible Hazards – When you have a sewage backup, floodwater coming in from the outside, or the possibility of electric shock, you need someone trained to handle it for you. SERVPRO arrives wearing the appropriate PPE and uses all the best equipment and products to keep hazards and contaminants from posing a problem. 

When looking at water restoration companies, know that SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is available 24/7. Request help online, or you can give us a call when you need us at (540) 433-6100!

Some Signs of Hidden Water Damage

11/24/2021 (Permalink)

When a sink, toilet or tub has overflowed, or when rainwater has invaded your home a water damage is obvious. Did you know that water damage could also be hidden? Hidden leaks can cause structure damage as well as cause microbial growth.

Signs of hidden water damage may include:

• Cracking, flaking and bubbling drywall or paint or dark or wet spots on ceiling or walls
• Puddle or pool of water that comes back after cleaning it up
• Unexplained water bill or electric bill that has suddenly gone up
• A dripping sound or sounds of running water
• A smell of dampness, mustiness, or mold

Hidden water damage can happen to both a new and an older home at any time. Any sort of water damage whether hidden or not needs to be taken care of as soon as possible.

Water Heater -Water Damage

11/23/2021 (Permalink)

Water Heaters can cause a water damage in several different ways from a slow leak to a burst pipe. A slow leak can develop and go unnoticed for days before the damage is found. If the water heater is located on any floor besides the bottom floor or basement of your home, the damage can be extensive. When a slow leak happens, the water can seep through the walls, flooring and even the ceiling of the rooms below. Sometimes the leak is found when the ceiling below shows water stains or collapses.

It is a good idea to inspect your water heater on a regular basis in addition to flushing it out twice a year.

If/when you notice that a puddle of water under your water heater, the water doesn’t get as hot as it used to, it is making popping or cracking sounds, and if you see any rust in the water when using the hot water, you should contact a plumber for assistance.

If you experience a water damage, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties for assistance. We can be reached at 540-433-6100 anytime of the day or night!

Checklist to Aid in Preventing Water Damage

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

• Check the hoses to your appliances: washing machine and dishwasher, be sure to include any faucets
• Check the water lines: refrigerator ice maker and water heater
• Check the caulking around your tub, shower, and windows
• Check your downspouts and gutters
• Check to make sure that the water drains away from your home or building
• Check your sump pump (if one is installed)

Upon inspection if you found any damage to your hoses or water lines, have them replaced. If the caulking is damage, you will need to reseal the areas. Make sure that your downspouts and gutters are clear of any debris and/or damage to would allow water to get into your home or building. Make sure that your sump pump is working correctly by pouring water into the pump pit allowing the float to rise and the pump to turn on. Also be sure that after the water is removed, that the pump turns off.

Causes of Dishwasher Leaks

11/11/2021 (Permalink)

Dishwashers usually leak at the door or underneath the washer.

If your dishwasher drainage system is clogged or the float valve fails, water will escape through the door. A leaking door seal can also cause water to escape as well as failure to level the dishwasher properly during installation. Water leaks can also come from damaged hoses and loose hose clamps. The tub itself could develop a hole due to corrosion issues from hard water and/or detergents used.

Be sure and inspect your dishwasher regularly for worn out parts and be sure to clean the filters at least once a month.

If you experience a water damage in your home, whether due to a dishwasher leak or other damage, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100. We are here to help!

Flash Flooding

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Flash flooding is most often caused by heavy or excessive rainfall from thunderstorms in a short period of time. Other causes of flash flooding could be the result of dam, levee, or ice jam break.

Flash flooding can occur within minutes or hours of excessive rainfall. The intensity of the rainfall, location, and type of land use (suburban, urban, farm, etc.) all determine how quickly the flash flooding may occur. Urbans areas are prone to flooding in short time spans due to the amount of asphalt and concrete (sidewalks).  These surfaces do not allow the water to go into the ground causing flash flooding more rapidly.

Flash flooding can happen so quickly that people can be caught off-guard. If you encounter high, fast moving water when you are driving, do not drive through the water. It is too dangerous and could cause your vehicle to be washed away with you in it. If you are at home or work, the water could come into the structure you are in and either trap you inside or cause property damage without you having time to protect either you or the property.

If you hear a watch or warning from the weather station, assess your situation and be prepared.

Refrigerator Water Lines Can Cause Damage to Your Home

2/4/2021 (Permalink)

Water lines to refrigerators are one of the causes of water damage to your home. Whether the line is to your ice maker or provides water from the refrigerator, either one can fail. One cause of failure is improper installation by not leaving any slack in the water line when it is connected. The slack is necessary so that when you pull out the refrigerator it does not pull on the line. The slack in the line should be rolled up correctly in order to prevent a pinch in the line. A pinch in the line could lead to a leak especially with copper lines.

Refrigerator water lines can either develop a slow leak and not be found for some time or they can “burst” and flood your home. Either one, water damage occurs.

If you find yourself in either situation, give us a call at 540-433-6100. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is here to help with any size water damage.

Washing Machines and Water Damage

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage from malfunctioning or leaking washing machines often get overlooked until it actually causes extensive damage.

Washing machine hoses can cause leaks or extensive water damage if they burst.  Most washing machine hoses are made of reinforced polymer or rubber, which lose resiliency as they age. This makes them more likely to crack, leak or burst.

You should inspect both your hot and cold hoses regularly. Look for cracks, kinks and/or bulges on the hoses as well as any moisture or rust. All of these are signs that the hoses could cause water damage. If you find any damaged hoses when inspecting them, be sure to replace them right away and make sure that they are properly installed without any bends or kinks.

Also make sure that the washing machine is level. By doing this, you prevent added stress on the connections and hoses by not having your machine unbalanced. An unbalance machine can “move or walk” when in use.

Causes of Toilet Leaks

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Toilet leaks are caused by a variety of reasons.

A toilet tank can loosen over time. Tanks should fit tightly onto the seat. If you notice water seeping out at the base of the tank it could be from a loose tank.

The wax ring at the base of the toilet can dry out or get damaged causing the seal to be broken. If you notice water coming from the base of the toilet, this could be the cause.

The bolts that hold the toilet to the floor can also loosen over time. If water “pools” at the base of the toilet when you flush, it could be coming from the bolts not been tight enough. You can fix this problem by tightening the bolts but be careful not to overtighten them as this can lead to cracks in the toilet.

A damaged flange can also be the cause of a leaking toilet. If it is damaged, it requires replacing the whole flange or filling in the missing piece.

A leaking toilet should be fixed as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the flooring and subfloor.

Water in Basements

11/16/2020 (Permalink)

The most common type of water damage in a basement is from a broken pipe. A sewer line, water supply line, washing machine discharge line and even outside faucets cause water damage to a basement.

Also, underground water can cause the surrounding ground to shift. Water can seep behind walls. Water damage in a basement can cause major structural damage. Cracks in walls, ceilings and floors are evidence of damages that could be caused by underground water if no other source has been found.

Floods and water emergencies can happen anytime. You should know where your main water cutoff is located. Turning off the water will prevent further damage, but only if you can safely do so. A submersible pump in the basement can also assist in keeping the water from causing further damage.

If you experience a water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100. We are available 24/7 365 days a year.

Flooding from Winter Storms

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Most people think of snowstorms or blizzards during the winter. Not many people think about winter flooding. Flooding can result from rain, snow, overflow of dams and rivers. Flooding can occur slowly or quickly; flash flooding can occur with no warning. You can experience power outages, washed out roads or blocked roads from debris or high water. Buildings including homes can be damaged.

If you are in a flooding situation:

• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood water -just six inches of moving water can knock you down and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Depending on what type of flooding is occurring and your location: evacuate if instructed to do so, move to higher ground or an upper floor, stay where you are.

Maintain Bathroom Plumbing

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Maintaining your bathroom plumbing can prevent water damages that can be costly.  Regular maintenance can be helpful in preventing not only water damage but also higher water and electric bills due to water loss.

 Leaking faucets and shower heads should be repaired or replaced.

Water shut off valves should be inspected to be sure they are working properly.

Water lines themselves should be inspected to make sure there are no leaks at the joints or pinholes in the pipes.

Toilets should be inspected to make sure that the water flow is shutting off properly and that the floor around the toilet is not “soft” indicating a defective seal.

 By checking your faucets, shower, tub, shut off valves, water lines and toilet on a regular basis you may prevent a more costly expense by preventing a water damage to occur. However, if you do experience a water damage, we will be ready to assist you. Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100.

Pool Safety

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

Backyard pools are becoming more common and safety is especially important.

All backyard pools should be surrounded by a fence and have self-closing and self-latching gates. The fence should be at least 4 feet high and away from areas where children could climb over them.

All people using the pool area should know how to swim and/or wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. But do not rely on them to keep inexperienced swimmers and children safe. Make sure that an adult is constantly watching children swimming or playing in or near the pool. Never leave children unattended or trust a child’s life to another child.

Have a phone nearby in case of an emergency. Learn CPR (including infant and children CPR) in case someone falls into the pool and stops breathing. You may be able to assist the person until paramedics arrive.

Backyard pools also can cause water damage by heavy rainfalls overfilling pools and flooding structures.

Above ground pools have on occasion had their sides buckle and cause the water to collapse the walls of the pools causing water damages to structures as well.

If water damage should occur at your home or business, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100. We will make it “Like it never even happened.”

Take The Stress Out of Water Damage Remediation

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can lead to uncontrolled mold growth if not treated properly.

Creating the Ideal Drying Conditions for Water Restoration in your Rockingham and Augusta Home

In dealing with any property restoration emergency, having access to the correct equipment goes a long way to reducing your claims loss expense. This principle is especially true in situations involving water, which can deteriorate contents, structure, and fittings overnight. One of the essential methods we use to reduce losses in your property is understanding how to dry your structure and contents properly. That means using moisture detection sensors, creating the right atmosphere for efficient drying and bringing in industrial extraction equipment. 

The task of water restoration in your Rockingham and Augusta home is to build on the foundations of careful psychrometric measurements taken regularly to control losses. Increasing the temperature in a closed area, for example, allows the interior air to take on more moisture- this process can increase the efficiency of air-moving equipment. However, to create optimum drying conditions, a SERVPRO technician must take regular readings using thermal hygrometers to ensure that the indoor air is not overloaded with moisture, which can slow drying times. 

While restoration is underway, a SERVPRO technician may tent off the affected area to gain better control of the indoor environment. High levels of humidity, which are a natural byproduct of drying procedure, can also create ideal conditions for microbial growth. Leaving a humid environment overnight can lead to further damages. SERVPRO technicians may create an open system, by opening windows or allowing ventilation to exchange humid interior air with drier outdoor air, to prevent secondary issues like mold growth from occurring. 

Using our training in combination with advanced drying equipment allows SERVPRO technicians to dry a structure without risking secondary damages confidently. By creating the ideal drying conditions, the expense of your claim is significantly reduced, and your home has the best chance of returning to its preloss conditions. We can forward the paperwork to your insurance adjuster to ease the claims process and let you get back to your everyday life with as little inconvenience as possible. 

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is ready to handle flood damage in your home. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and restore the house to its pre-flood condition.

Now You Can Have Safe Flood Damage Remediation in Your Rockingham and Augusta Home

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flood damage almost always occurs at the most inopportune times.

Flood Damage in Your Rockingham and Augusta Homes? Call Us!

Summer storms in Rockingham and Augusta are a common occurrence. Large puffy clouds regularly roll over the area, helping keep the weather cool in the summer. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that clouds can quickly unleash torrents of rains, causing flooding in your home.  

Often flood damage in Rockingham and Augusta homes occurs after heavy storms. If this happens to you, then you need professionals who can quickly work to resolve your issues. Our teams of SERVPRO water damage restoration technicians (WRT) can arrive on your property within hours of your call to begin extracting water. We can utilize industrial-grade wet vacs and pumps to speed up the process. Floods typically consist of Category 3 black water, which can soil absorbent substances, forcing us to discard them. 

As a homeowner, you have several options for mitigating any further damage before SERVPRO crews arrive. Here are some tips we recommend you follow to help reduce damages: 

- For your safety, make sure to wear protective clothing (such as tall rubber boots) before coming into contact with contaminated water. 

- Extract contaminated upholstery pieces from your home so that they can be properly disposed of. 

- Move your furniture out of the floodwaters. 

- Wipe down wooden sections of furniture with a wet rag to help prevent the formation of water lines. 

Once we are present, we can remove absorbent materials such as carpeting that can be more difficult for you to remove on your own. This can be accomplished with the use of carpet removal tools. We can then use air movers and dehumidifiers to pull moisture out of your sub-flooring to fully dry it. 

Additionally, we can identify hidden moisture in your home using moisture sensors after pumping out the floodwater. This allows us to identify areas that require further use of dehumidifiers and air movers to thoroughly dry out. 

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is ready to handle flood damage in your home. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and restore the house to its pre-flood condition.

SERVPRO will clean your flood damage in Rockingham and Augusta the right way

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Have flood damage? Contact our certified team for a fast response.

Two things about flood damage when it occurs: first, cleanup has to start quickly. Second, all water requires the removal, and inadequate extraction of water leaves the property open for more costly issues. 

SERVPRO technicians utilize a wide array of water extraction equipment when working on flood damage in a Rockingham or Augusta property. Each surface and amount of water dictates the type of removal equipment chosen for use. Before water removal efforts commence, technicians scope the property using different kinds of moisture detection devices to ascertain areas where there are excessive levels of moisture that require extraction or drying attention.

Special Attention to the Subfloor

When water enters a property, it follows the path of least resistance and migrates into the subflooring rapidly. The use of inadequate or improper removal methods leaves the property open for the weakening of the building materials, foul odors, and mold infestations. Technicians use squeegee attachments when pooling water is an issue. 

Hardwood Flooring with Water Damage

Wood flooring constructed from composite never fares well with water exposure and is generally a loss. Hardwood flooring has restoration potential on a case by case basis partly determined on the category and length of water exposure. SERVPRO technicians use squeegee attachments with wet vacuums and follow up using drying mats to limit the warping or buckling. 

Water Extraction from Carpets

In cases of wet carpeting from rainwater entering the home and the cleanup started within 24 hours, there is potential for restoration of the carpet. SERVPRO technicians use a host of tools such as pumps with weighted carpet wands or deep extractor tools, and Rovers that use the weight of a technician to push water out of carpeted surfaces. When carpet absorbs groundwater, there is no restoration potential. The technicians extract the water and cut the rug into strips for easier handling. 

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 is ready to handle flood damage in your home. We're Faster to Any Size Disaster and restore the house to its pre-flood condition.

Don't Let A Pipe Burst Cause Water Damage In Your Rockingham and Augusta Home

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties can help to solve water damage problems before they get out of hand.

Leaky pipes are the banes of homeowners everywhere. While modern engineering and sealants help to prevent many of the widespread issues that plagued us in the past, even the most well-made water lines and faucets can start to leak and cause damage to your home. If you identify a leak early on, you should be able to seal up the problem on your own, but often a few hours is enough to cause enough damage to call for help from a professional damage mitigation company like SERVPRO. Here's how a small leak can cause significant problems for your home.

Bleeding Colors and Finishes
Some dyes and finishes used on wood and other materials in your home may react poorly with water, potentially causing permanent damage to your home as colors wash out and bleed into one another over time. Again, the only way to stop these problems from progressing is to dry up the water as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you may need to re-paint, re-finish, or even replace any affected parts of your home.

Mold Growth
One of the most popular reasons why we get called in to help remove mold from local homes is due to the presence of longtime leaks in cabinets and similar environments. With a steady supply of water, an environment that is almost always dark, and little activity to disturb its growth, mold can spread quickly underneath your kitchen sink. Patching up the leak and removing the water before any mold can grow is imperative to avoiding a widespread problem in your home.

Mixing with Chemicals
One of the most dangerous aspects of water damage in Harrisonburg and Augusta homes is the potential for water to mix with hazardous chemicals stored nearby. Many homes we visit have buckets and stores of cleaning chemicals directly below leaking pipes and sink basins. These can represent a significant safety hazard, especially if any of the substances are outside of their bottles (which may happen if you re-use rags and sponges). SERVPRO technicians know how to identify and take precautions against these potential safety risks so that you do not have to.

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties can help to solve water damage problems before they get out of hand. Call us 24/7 at 540-433-6100 for our services or a quote.

Water Damage Emergency Tips

9/24/2019 (Permalink)

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first. Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are prevalent concerns. You may also get hurt lifting objects, as wet materials can be very heavy. Do only activities that are safe to perform, and evacuate if necessary.

What to Do After Water Damage

• Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas when access to the panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in the summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT to Do After Water Damage

• Don’t enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water.
• Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't turn on your television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Water Damage Repair and Restoration

When your home has water damage from flooding or leaks, you need a company that can respond immediately and has the expertise and equipment to restore your property correctly. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties uses advanced water damage inspection and extraction equipment to help find the moisture and remove it as quickly as possible. Our highly trained technicians will monitor and document the drying process so that you know your property is back to normal.

Why Choose SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties?

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is locally owned and operated.

Our certified cleaning and restoration specialists are faster to any size disaster. Providing emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day, or night.

Available 24 Hour a day for Water Emergencies

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is always ready to help, call 540-433-6100.

SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham 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 540-433-6100

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 Harrisonburg/Rockingham County has 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 flood or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)? 

What You Can Do To Help Prevent Water Damage This Season

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

Bathtubs can easily overflow, especially if left unattended with the water running.

We should always be conscious of the water we use and how it can actually end up causing damage. If we’re not careful we can be responsible for flooding or additional water damage in our homes. It is good to know things you can do to try and prevent water damage and what to look out for.

Lookout for Water Pipes

It’s getting close to that time of year where pipes can easily freeze. Make sure you don’t have any cracks in your piping or any slow drips. Cracks in your pipes often can result in not only leaks but when pipes freeze can increase the chance of your pipes bursting.

Long Showers

Many of us love long hot showers on these cold brisk weather days. Especially in the mornings to help warm us up. However, excess use of water can lead to flooding and pooling, which if you’re not careful, can cause water damage. The stagnant water and excessive moisture in your shower is something you should closely monitor so that it does not lead to mold growth and damage. Making certain also that your shower curtain is closed completely and that no water is spraying out is also important as if you spray too much water out of the shower and onto your floor it will seep through below your flooring. If you have shower doors instead of a curtain, make certain that they too close properly and that they are not leaking water out during your shower. If a hot bath is your preference, then watch how high you fill it up! You do not want to walk away and allow for your tub to overflow. You also do not want to fill it so high that when you get into the tub and sink down you cause water to overflow onto the floor.

Your Drains

It is good to make sure that your drains are working properly. Be it in your bathtub, shower, kitchen or bathroom sink, if a drain is not draining properly it can lead to water pooling and sometimes flowing over out of the sink, tub, etc. You should clean out your drains often as hair, debris, food pieces etc can easily clog them.

Toilets

Be careful to not clog your toilets. While sometimes it is unavoidable, always make sure to have a plunger available in case it should be needed. If you know something has clogged your toilet, be it paper or something a child placed it in and flushed, than do not keep flushing it. Until you are sure the clog has been dealt with properly, flushing can cause your toilet to overflow. Should that happen, do your best to clean up any water immediately.

Plants and Christmas Trees

It’s almost Christmas! Lots of us just love freshly cut Christmas Trees. However, those trees, of course, require us to water them or to keep them in water. Make sure you’re keeping your houseplants, any flowers watered and/or fed with what they need in order to keep them growing. Make sure to keep that Christmas Tree from drying out as it can otherwise go from a potential water problem to a fire hazard. However, be sure to monitor how much water isn’t being absorbed by the soil, plants, or the Christmas Tree. Excess water can and often will seep through crevices and cause damage to your home’s foundation, create sinkholes and more.

Should you encounter any sort of water damage at your home than SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, is here for you! We are open 24/7 and can be reached at 540-433-6100. To receive assistance with water, fire or storm damage, give us a call.

Clogged Gutters - A Leading Cause of Water Damage!

11/27/2018 (Permalink)

Gutters play a key role in preventing water damage to your home. That is why it is essential that you keep your gutters clean and free of debris. 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 your home.

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

Clogged gutters can cause many issues for a homeowner. If water finds its way into the walls and ceilings of the home, it will cause interior damage. In winter months, pooling water around the foundation of the home can cause foundation cracks if it freezes and expands. The paint and siding of a home can also be damaged as water overflows from the gutters.

Failing to clean gutters regularly can be a very costly mistake! It is one of the most important tasks of a homeowner and, if done on a regular basis, can prevent many homeowner headaches!

If water damage impacts your home or commercial facility, please call our crew at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at (540) 433-6100. We proudly offer 24-hour emergency service, and we are equipped to deal with any size disaster.

Prevention Tips for Basement Flooding

9/19/2018 (Permalink)

As hurricane season starts many of us will be vulnerable to basement flooding.  Basement flooding can be a major disturbance to a family.  Loss of use of a part of your home, damage to flooring and walls, damage to personal property, potential of mold growth, and just overall an experience we would avoid if we could. 

To begin trying to prevent basement flooding first we must understand why basements flood.  Think about when your home was being built.  A large hole is dug and the masonry foundation is built inside that hole.  The area outside of that foundation wall becomes a trench.  This trench is later back filled with dirt.  However this dirt is different in composition from what was removed.  The trench soil is loose, not as compacted, and drains more rapidly.  So when water fills this trench in a heavy rainstorm it has only 3 possible directions to go, away from home through hard clay soil, down below the trench through hard clay soil, or into your home though porous masonry walls.  The most important step to preventing water damages from rain/flooding is to keep water away from this trench.  There are other causes for basements to flood like hydrostatic pressure and sump pump failures but this is the most common cause from our experience. 

Below are some tips from the pros that may help you avoid a water damage:

• ·         Check your gutters and clean them if needed.  Clogged gutters cause overflows that lead to water pooling outside the foundation walls.  If enough water pools by your foundation, some will most likely enter your basement.
• ·         Check on your gutter downspouts.  If your gutters are clean and operating properly but the water is being discharged too close to your foundation some water will most likely enter your basement.  Local home stores sell inexpensive downspout extenders.  Use downspout extenders to make sure the water is being discharged away from your foundation and not pooling.
• ·         Check on your sump pump and pit.  Many of us don’t know that our sump pumps aren’t working until it’s too late.   Get a 5-gallon bucket of water and fill the pit till the pump kicks on.  Make sure it’s working and just like the downspouts, discharging away from your foundation.  Also any dirt and debris in the sump pump pit can get sucked into the pump and create a block or shorten the life span and power of your pump.  Detach the pump (if possible) and vacuum the pit out with a shop vac to remove any dirt/stones/debris.

Sometimes no matter what we do and what steps we take to prevent it, water will find its way into your home.  If that’s the case, we are here to help make it like it never happened.  

8 Tips for Avoiding Plumbing Emergencies

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

8 Tips for Avoiding Plumbing Emergencies

https://www.waterdamagedefense.com/blogs/home-maintenance-blog/plumbing-maintenance

Plumbing maintenance may not be the most exciting topic, but it is well worth your attention! By regularly examining your plumbing system, and performing preventative maintenance, you can save yourself from both costly repair bills and the slow, steady expense caused by drips and leaks. Here is a maintenance checklist to help you stay ahead of common plumbing problems.

1. Water heater: Many plumbers recommend draining and cleaning your water heater annually. Most people hire a professional to handle these tasks, due to their technical nature, and often they are even included in your plumbing fixture’s service contract.
2. Valves: Locate all your shut-off valves and turn them off, then back to their original position, to make sure they would not be stuck open in the event that you need to shut the water off. While you are at it, look them over for any sign of corrosion, which could lead to an undetected leak. Replace any valves that are not working properly. Finally, make sure that your entire family knows where your shutoff valves are located, especially the main one, since this is very valuable information in case a leak occurs.
3. Leaks: Leaks can develop in many different places in your plumbing system and should be addressed immediately to curtail waste and water damage. Periodically check for any of the following signs of trouble: soft flooring near toilets, bathtubs, dishwashers, water heaters or washing machines; dampness inside sink cabinets; soft walls or loose tiles that could signal a leak inside a wall; pipes with rust or mineral deposits; constant dampness around faucets or toilets; and finally toilets that keep running after being flushed. Use water shut off valve or water leak detection systems to alert you when water leaks occur.
4. Old or malfunctioning fixtures: Generally, toilets, dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters, and boilers that are more than 12 years old are good candidates for replacement. New appliances will be more energy and water efficient. Check the item’s serial number, since this often indicates the year it was manufactured. Companies use a variety of coding methods, so perform a quick internet search to find out what to look for. Additionally, replace old faucets with new, washer-less models to save on maintenance costs, and replace any hardened or cracked hoses on washers and dishwashers to reduce the risk of a rupture. The old adage “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it,” does not always make sense when it comes to plumbing! Keep in mind that by swapping the old plumbing fixtures for new, more efficient models you could save money every month on your energy and water bills in addition to avoiding costly water damage repair bills.
5. Caulking: Check and re-do any aging caulking around bathtubs, showers, toilets, and sinks that might be allowing water to penetrate the surrounding structure.
6. Septic: If you have a septic system, any persistently marshy areas in your drainage field may signal a leak in your septic line. Although pumping a septic tank is an essential element of plumbing maintenance, there is no hard and fast rule governing how frequently you should pump the tank. It depends on several factors, like the number of people in your household, whether there is a garbage disposal, the size of your tank, its system design, and even the temperature in your region. Consult a septic expert to find out how often you should pump your septic tank.
7. Low water pressure: Test for low water pressure by running water from your tub faucet and then opening the kitchen faucet. If the pressure decreases when you open the second faucet, you should get a plumber to analyze the problem. Low water pressure is often caused by a leaks or sediment build-up in pipes.
8. Drains: Clogged drainpipes can often be avoided by regularly cleaning your drains with an eco-friendly drain cleaner. One easy way to clean your kitchen garbage disposal is to send some ice through it to clean out any grease that may have accumulated inside. Also, look for bubbles escaping up from a drain while water is trying to go down, as this could indicate a drain vent problem.

 Whether you perform these maintenance checks yourself or hire a professional to handle them, it is a worthwhile investment of your time or money. By taking preventative measures, you greatly reduce the risk that you encounter costly surprises down the road.

 If you do have water damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at 540-433-6100.

Water Shut Off

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Water shut off valve examples

In an emergency you may have to shut off the water to your home. For example, freezing or thawing may cause a water pipe to break. Water pipe breaks are also common with most types of natural disasters (winter storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, and more). Broken water pipes can lead to electrical hazards, long-term wood rot, long-term mold, or even drowning.

Where’s The Water Shut-Off Valve?
1. Look for the water shut-off valve where the water line enters your house. In warmer climates the shut-off valve may be outside your home where the water line meets your home’s exterior. But in most climates the water shut-off valve is just inside the house where the water line enters through your home’s foundation or exterior wall. Scott Finazzo, author of The Neighborhood Emergency Response Handbook, says that if your water comes in through a ground well the valves on either side of the pressure tank should both be shut off. 

2. Often the water shut-off valve is a quarter-turn ball valve. If that’s what you have, turn the valve a quarter of a turn until it’s perpendicular to the water pipe. Or your home may have a round handle that you turn clockwise until you can’t turn it anymore. Don’t have a master shut-off value in your home? Have one installed. 

If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County At (540) 433-6100.

3. Another water shut-off option is closing the municipal water meter shut-off valve. This valve, if you have municipal water, typically is in your front or side yard. Look for a round metal lid or box close to your property line. It’s often 24 to 48 inches from the curb or fence line.

If your water meter has a round metal lid use a wrench or pliers to rotate the lone nut on the lid counterclockwise. This willelease the latch and you can open the lid. Another type of metal lid requires a screwdriver. Turn the lid until the tabs line up with the gaps and you can lift the lid off. A third type of water meter lid is square or rectangular. You can pry it open with a screwdriver or pry bar.

Don’t reach into the meter box until you inspect the area for debris and rodents. If the box is old and covered with a lot of growth you may want to wear gloves. Once inside the municipal water meter box you’ll need pliers or a specialty tool to turn the valve. Turn it until it’s perpendicular to the water pipe.
 
If You Have Water Damage Call SERVPRO Of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County At (540) 433-6100.

Shut-Off Valves For Single Rooms
Sometimes you only need to shut off the water to one room. Most newer houses have shut-off valves at every sink and toilet. Your water heater may have several shut-off valves. If your issue is one leaking sink just shut off water to that sink. If you know the water heater is leaking just shut the valves to it off.

Water Damage Timeline

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Flooded Basement in Harrisonburg

Timeline for the Water Damage Restoration Process

Flooding and water damage can occur for a number of reasons. It can happen very quickly and with very little notice. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties arrives swiftly and starts the water extraction process for your property almost immediately. This prompt response time helps to minimize the damage, cleaning, and restoration costs needed after such an event.

Within Minutes:

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

Hours 1 to 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.

After 48 Hours:

• 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.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost may 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 Rockingham and Augusta Counties

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties 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. Give us a call if you have any questions or concerns at (540) 433-6100.