Recent Storm Damage Posts
Effective Storm Flood Damage Restoration in Waynesboro
11/4/2024 (Permalink)
If your home has water damage, it can be quite overwhelming. Contact SERVPRO! Our technicians are certified and have the equipment needed.
Hire SERVPRO® for Storm Flood Damage Repair in Waynesboro
Typically, flood damage does not occur in a vacuum. In most cases, severe weather causes the water levels of nearby water bodies like rivers and lakes to rise or high wind storms to damage roofing materials. That's why SERVPRO brings wide-reaching experts together to repair flood-damaged homes.
Our storm flood damage restoration process in Waynesboro homes can help prevent needless losses. Our IICRC-certified team can secure your property's perimeter to ensure passersby do not enter it. We can then start removing soaked drywall, debris, and mud.
Our emergency roof repair service can reduce water damage to your home's structural supports, rafters, contents, and interior materials. SERVPRO's flood restoration service involves several processes, including the following:
- Securing your home
- Assessing the destruction
- Removing debris
- Cleaning and restoring contents
- Water removal
- Deodorization
- Rebuilding
Roof damage is among the main reasons homeowners require a flood restoration contractor. High winds may rip off metal panels and cause gaping holes in the roof, allowing rain to drench drywall, wood floors, and other materials. Such damage requires immediate debris removal, water extraction, and rebuilding. Our crew can secure the rooftop by covering it with shrinking wrapping, waterproof tarps, or installing a temporary roof overlay before a permanent solution is found.
Our SERVPRO water restoration technicians (WRTs) can use self-priming trash pumps to extract the water. Restorers classify these pumps as trash, semi-trash, slurry, or full trash, mainly based on the size of solids they can pass. Slurry pumps are suitable for removing fluid containing mud or sand.
Our team can also use air-moving and dehumidifying tools to dry your home. When using such equipment, our SERVPRO technicians seek to achieve balanced drying, the ultimate drying situation in which the evaporation rate is slightly less than or equal to the ventilation or dehumidification rate.
SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is ready to help you restore your home after storm flood damage. Call us at (540) 433-6100 for effective repairs. We can make the damage seem "Like it never even happened."
Mitigation Solutions for Harrisonburg Flood Damage
1/2/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is Here to Help® 24/7 with heavy-duty equipment. We can rescue your Harrisonburg home after a flood.
Quick Efforts Lesson Water Damage
Severe weather is an all-too-common occurrence in this area, and the threat of flood and storm damage is always looming. Water intrusion into your property can cause significant structural damage and ruin personal belongings. We offer fast and effective solutions to mitigate water damage. We prioritize removing the water and preventing the situation from escalating further.
Post-Storm Board-Up and Repairs
To effectively combat flood damage in Harrisonburg homes and businesses, the first step we take is to provide direct boarding up and sealing services. It is critical to prevent any further water damage to the structure. Therefore, we proactively use thick plywood to cover broken windows and missing doors and tarp over roof holes. These measures are taken promptly to ensure no additional water enters the structure, which could complicate the mitigation process.
Extracting Standing Water
The next step will be to remove any surface water that may have accumulated. We at SERVPRO® understand that flooding can often bring along debris. We use specialized extraction solutions to remove standing water while accounting effectively for any solids present. We have a range of powerful machines at our disposal to get this done quickly and efficiently.
- Truck-mount extractors
- Trash pumps
- Wet vacuums
Making Sure the House is Clean
It is essential to note that removing surface water is just one of the initial steps in the extensive cleaning and restoration process required for your household. Our technicians pay considerable attention to decontamination procedures, and all nonporous surfaces are thoroughly treated with powerful disinfection products and potent mold-inhibiting agents.
You must save time in severe weather conditions wreaking havoc on your home or business. It would be best to have swift and effective mitigation and cleanup solutions to minimize water damage and safeguard your property. Our storm response team is available round the clock, ready to assist. Don't wait; call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties now at 540-433-6100.
Dealing with Water Damage in Harrisonburg Properties
1/4/2023 (Permalink)
Regardless the magnitude of water damage our technicians provide complete water removal services, including extraction, cleaning, drying, & repairs.
Impactful Water Restoration in a Harrisonburg Home
Light rain storms are mostly relaxing, especially during the weekends, as you cozy up next to the fireplace with delicious treats and a good book. But heavy rains and storms can ruin all that excitement. Nothing is more discouraging than a leaking roof or window that damps your floors.
One structural area that can trigger costly water damage in a Harrisonburg home after an intense storm is the roof. One crack on the roof can allow moisture to penetrate the home’s attic and top floors leading to further internal damage to your ceilings and walls. The moisture may cause the wood on the roof or attic floor to rot, destabilizing the structure. Wet wood with sheetrock attached acts as a moisture reservoir. When the sheetrock is not dried quickly, it may crack and fall apart, leaving a hole in your ceiling. SERVPRO responds quickly to water damage incidents helping you avoid costly repairs through mitigation.
Simple actions to minimize the damaging effects of moisture:
- Cleaning gutters regularly
- Repairing loose shingles
- Sealing basements
Heavy rains can flood the basement. The moisture can seep through unsealed windows before finding a way to the basement. The ground surrounding your home should slope downward away from the foundation. If not, the rainwater can puddle around your home, causing moisture to seep into the ground and crack the foundation. Water can leak through the cracks in your basement, damaging any stored items significantly.
Hidden dangers of moisture in the basement:
- Electrical threats
- Mold
- Structural damage
Suppose water enters your home during heavy rains. In that case, whether in the basement or crawl space, SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties provides efficient water damage cleanup and improves ventilation throughout the home to minimize mold growth. Call us at (540) 433-6100. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Flood Damage in Your Harrisonburg Home? Call SERVPRO
7/6/2022 (Permalink)
Storm and flood damage restoration services by SERVPRO are top-notch. Call now for fast and immediate service.
Extracting Water After Flood Damage to Your Harrisonburg Home
Extraction of the accumulated water after flood damage to your Harrisonburg home must happen fast to prevent any permanent damage to your property. The longer the floodwater stays in contact with the structural components, the more damage it can cause.
SERVPRO techs use several pieces of equipment to extract water after flood damage to your Harrisonburg home. The choice of the equipment depends on several factors, including-
- The volume of water present on the property
- The amount of debris and sediment in the water
- The vertical lift required
- The availability of electric power
Depending on the situation, techs use truck-mounted and portable extractors, pumps, or deep extraction tools to remove accumulated water on your property after a storm.
Why are Trash Pumps so Useful in Flood Restoration?
Trash pumps are essential equipment during flood damage restoration of your Harrisonburg home for several reasons. Although these pumps don’t provide as much suction lift as submersible pumps, they have other advantages.
As floodwater often contains debris and sediment, it can become difficult to pump it out with regular extractors and pumps. Trash pumps are ideal in such a situation as they can pass solids up to 3 inches without getting clogged. Some trash pumps can also carry fluid laden with sand or mud.
Another advantage of trash pumps cleaning up flood damage is that they operate on gas or diesel rather than electricity. SERVPRO techs use trash pumps when water needs to be transported horizontally, and a little lift is required.
Trash pumps come in various capacities, removing from 10,000 to 60,000 gallons of floodwater per hour.
If you need assistance with flood restoration, call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100.
Why Drying Is Crucial in Flood Damage Repair in Staunton Homes
5/13/2022 (Permalink)
Regardless of the room that flooding overtakes, team SERVPRO can help. Contact us for water removal and flood damage remediation services. Call 24/7.
Flood Damage Restoration in Staunton Properties
Once there has been flooding in your home, many issues can develop. Water has damaging properties; for example, when wood framing, drywall, and subfloors become saturated with water, they deteriorate. Even if you successfully remove all standing water, most materials remain wet. You still have to dry out the wet areas to restore your Staunton home to its preloss conditions.
The biggest problem with repairing flood damage in your Staunton homes by yourself is the risk of using low-grade equipment that might not completely dry out wet areas. Any residual moisture can create a perfect environment for mold and mildew if not quickly dealt with.
Other reasons you need professional help
- Sufficient workforce for faster turnaround
- Better restoration techniques
- Third-party recommendations for additional services
Drying techniques
Moisture migrates widely once a property floods. Therefore, the drying procedures must also have the capacity to reach vast or concealed areas. A faster turnaround is an added advantage since it minimizes the chances of rot and other severe deterioration. Drying techniques vary based on the medium used to facilitate the process. Common approaches include manipulating airflow, using containment barriers, and manipulating temperature using equipment or other resources.
Moisture removal resources
Creating a chamber isolates the areas being dried from the rest of the structure, creating several advantages. The most important aspect is the superior ability to regulate all the factors that support drying, including heat, airflow, and humidity. Our SERVPRO teams use plastic sheets to create a chamber that can cover only a section such as a floor surface or an entire room. We then circulate warm, dry air inside the chamber and dehumidify the air exhausted from within.
SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties helps expedite the process of drying out and recovering from flood damage "Like it never even happened." Call us at (540) 433-6100.
Harrisonburg Flood Damage Cleanup Available 24 Hours Daily
4/11/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO flood damage cleanup services for your property are top-notch. We are here to help 24/7 365 days a year.
Flood Remediation from Harrisonburg SERVPRO Mitigates Odors and Debris
Water is not the only cause of unpleasant odors after flood damage. Harrisonburg homeowners can often find sewage, pests, chemical runoff, and other unpleasant discoveries on their property that can also affect the safety of potential DIY solutions. Professional remediation, however, can keep homeowners safe while still eliminating odors and debris.
Harrisonburg SERVPRO flood damage cleanup professionals provide around-the-clock mitigation services that return homes to pre-flood conditions. Whether the disaster is large or small, SERVPRO tools and EPA-registered biocides can eliminate odor-causing particles.
SERVPRO odor control and debris removal for flooding
To address concerns created by flood odors and debris like soot and sewage, SERVPRO professionals can:
- Use commercial-grade personal protective equipment (PPE) to eliminate waste and residue brought in by flood damage safely. These tools include gloves, N95 filter respirators, and hooded coveralls
- Manually clean and dispose of solid waste without spreading contaminants throughout the property. SERVPRO mitigates this risk with designated clean rooms for decontamination of equipment and PPE
- Spray OSHA-approved biocides to mitigate bacteria and microbes on contact, which can lessen odors
- Deploy ultra-low volume (ULV) foggers to eliminate odor-causing bacteria on surfaces and in the air with lingering "wet" fog
- Position ventilation box fans to circulate clean air through the property at least 40 times before and after ULV fogging to minimize the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These fans can circulate air at a rate of 3,200 cubic feet per minute
While drying moisture and extracting excess water after a flood is crucial to mitigation, debris removal and odor control from certified professionals go the extra lengths necessary to restore a home to a safe and sanitary state.
Homeowners can call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster, including on weekends and holidays.
Preparing for Winter Driving
11/29/2021 (Permalink)
People think about preparing their homes for winter weather but may forget about getting their vehicle ready for winter driving.
You should prepare your car for winter weather:
- Have a mechanic check your fluid levels, battery, wipers, heater, and defroster.
- Make sure there is enough tread on your tires and if check to see if chains or studs are needed.
- Keep your gas tank full in case of emergencies, this will also help keep gas lines from freezing.
- Keep an emergency supply kit in your vehicle, include jumper cables, ice scraper, blanket, cell phone charger, cat litter (to aid in traction if you get stuck), flashlight, flares, and a first aid kit.
- Keep an emergency bag supplied with water, snacks, and extra batteries to grab when leaving when weather is bad in case of getting stuck in snow or ice.
Different Forms of “Snow”
11/9/2021 (Permalink)
Snow can be seen as flurries or snow showers. Flurries are light falling snow for a fleeting period and there is unusually no accumulation. Snow showers have snow falling for brief periods of time and with varying intensity of snowfall, some accumulation is possible.
Sleet starts out as snow then partially melts when going through warm air as the flakes fall towards the ground. Before hitting the ground, they then go through a layer of freezing air and eventually land as sleet. Sleet is nothing more than frozen rain drops!
Freezing rain also starts out as snow. The snowflakes completely melt as they fall through warm air. Then the rain refreezes upon impact with anything below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a glaze of ice on trees, power lines, etc.
Ice Storms and Freezing Rain
11/3/2021 (Permalink)
Avoid driving if freezing rain has been forecasted. Roads can be extremely slippery with just a small amount of accumulation of ice. Wait to drive until after the highway maintenance crews have had time to treat the roads with sand or salt and it has started to melt. Better yet, wait until the temperature gets above freezing so as not to have the roadway refreeze before you arrive at your destination.
Check tree branches and power lines for ice buildup. The weight of the ice could cause the branches and power lines to break causing damage to yourself, car, or residence. Never touch power lines as they could cause you to be electrocuted.
It is better to stay put and stay inside, if possible, until after the ice has melted from the roadways, trees, and power lines when an ice storm occurs.
Ice storms and freezing can also cause damage to your home. Falling trees and branches as well as an ice dam backup in your gutters can cause not only water damage but structural damage. If you experience any damage during a storm, contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-434-4100. We are here to help!
Preparing for a Power Outage Before a Storm Hits
10/5/2021 (Permalink)
Power outages can be a result of severe storms and it helps to be prepared. A power outage can be from several hours to several days or longer.
Preparations include:
- Signing up for local alerts and monitoring weather reports when severe weather is expected.
- Make a list of items that rely on electricity, plan to have batteries on hand as well as cell phones and other items charged.
- Have flashlights or led battery powered candles on hand for light sources.
- Have gas tanks full and additional gas on hand for portable generators and to use for grills to cook on.
- Stock up on non-perishable food and water.
- If taking any type of refrigerated medicines, check with your medical provider to get specific guidance on life saving medicine and ask how long medication can be stored at higher temperatures before causing any issues. Keep a thermometer in your refrigerator and freezer so that you know what the temperature is when the power comes back on.
For storm damage to your home, give SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties a call at 540-433-6100.
Damaging Winds
4/20/2021 (Permalink)
Damaging winds are called “straight-line” winds so as not to confuse the damage they cause with tornado damage. Damage from severe thunderstorm winds is more common than damage from tornadoes. Damaging winds are classified as those exceeding 50-60mph. Wind speeds can reach up to 100mph and can produce damage extending for hundreds of miles.
Since most thunderstorms produce some straight-line winds, anyone living in thunderstorm prone areas is at a risk for experiencing wind damage. People living in mobile homes are especially at risk from injury. Even mobile homes that have been anchored can be severely damaged by high wind gusts.
Wind damage can topple trees and send other outdoor items (chairs, grills, etc.) into the side of your home or outbuilding. The resulting damage could allow water from the thunderstorm to get into the structure causing even more damage to your home or outbuilding.
Should you experience either wind or water damage, call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100 to assist you with the damage. We are here to help!
Different Terms for Snow
2/23/2021 (Permalink)
Snowflakes are ice crystals that cling to each other as they fall. Precipitation continues to fall as snow when the temperature remains at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Snow flurries is light snow for short periods that result in either no accumulation or a light dusting.
Snow showers vary in intensity for brief periods and have some accumulation.
Snowstorms produce a heavy accumulation of snow with high winds.
Blowing snow is wind-driven snow that causes drifting and reduces visibility. This type of snowstorm can either come from loose snow on the ground or falling snow.
Blizzards have sustained wind or frequent gusts of winds 35mph or higher. In order to be considered a blizzard, it also has to have blowing snow reducing visibility to under a quarter mile and/or heavy snowfall and continue for three consecutive hours.
Prepare Yourself for Storms
11/30/2020 (Permalink)
When extreme weather is predicted, you should prepare yourself. Advisories and warnings are issued through the radio, internet and television for your safety.
- Stock up on non-perishable foods, batteries for flashlights and radios.
- Check outside for any items that can be blown around, such as garbage cans and patio furniture. These items can be picked up by the wind and cause damage to property and injure people.
- Cut down dead tree branches and dead trees to aid in preventing the risk of falling during the storm.
- Do not use an ordinary phone line during a storm, use a cell phone instead.
- If you have animals, bring them inside and make sure they have sufficient food and water.
Preparing yourself before a storm hits can save lives (whether human or animal) and minimize damage to property. Be prepared and stay safe.
When Winter Storms Occur
11/10/2020 (Permalink)
Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and/or high winds.
Winter storms can last a few hours or several days. They can knock out heat, power and communication services and close roads.
If a winter storm warning occurs:
- Listen for emergency information and alerts
- Stay off roads if at all possible. If you get trapped in your car, stay put until help arrives.
- Limit time outdoors, stay inside and dress warmly.
- Prepare for power outages by having extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
- Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by using generators outside only and away from windows.
- Never use a gas oven or stove to heat your home.
- Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow, which could lead to a heart attack.
Different Types of Winter Storm Damages
11/5/2020 (Permalink)
Typical winter storms create a buildup of snow and ice. Depending on the temperatures, snow and ice can be on the ground or roofs for days or weeks.
When the temperatures warm up, the snow and ice begin to thaw which could cause a flooding issue. The water can then enter your basement or home causing water damage and if not found for a while, mold could start to grow.
Winter storms also can cause water pipes to freeze. As water freezes in a pipe, it expands which can cause the pipe to burst. It is important to have the name and number of a plumber so that if you don’t have running water after a winter storm, they can be called to check for a frozen or burst pipe. A burst pipe can cause the whole house to be without water as well as causing damage to the home itself.
Roofs can also be damaged during winter storms. Most people don’t remove the snow or ice from their roofs which can cause the roof to collapse or create ice dams. Roof damage can also come from high winds during a winter storm. In addition to damage to the roof itself, other parts of the home could experience water damage due to roof leaks.
If you experience any water damages due to winter storms, give us a call at 540-433-6100.
Dangers of Thunderstorms
10/7/2020 (Permalink)
Thunderstorms can cause fire and water damage.
Thunderstorms are rain showers in which lightning occurs; thunder comes from the lightning.
Thunderstorms usually happen in the spring and summer during afternoon and evening hours, but they can occur all year long and at all hours.
A severe thunderstorm includes hail and/or wind gusting in excess of 57.5 mph (50 knots). Under the right conditions, thunderstorms can cause flash flooding. The lightning can cause fires and fatalities. Large hail (golf ball or softball size) can damage cars, windows and kill animals caught outside. Strong winds can knock down power lines and trees. Mobile homes can be knocked over as well.
If your home or business should receive water or fire damage from a thunderstorm, give us a call at 540-433-6100. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is here to help!
Storm Watch and Storm Warning Have Different Meanings
9/9/2020 (Permalink)
When you hear that a storm watch or storm warning is in effect, do you know the difference?
A storm watch means that upcoming potentially dangerous weather conditions are expected to occur. These conditions such as heavy rains, strong winds or hailstorms can occur based on the weather pattern that is currently being forecast.
A storm warning means that potentially danger weather is either in or near your location and that severe conditions have already been observed.
In addition to the meaning of the watch or warning, the difference also applies to the time involved to take action and get to safety. A storm watch lets you know that it may take several hours to reach you and a storm warning lets you know to take immediate action to find safety.
Either a storm watch or storm warning can result in storm damage to your home or business.
Contact SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100, if this happens to you.
Hurricane Season Can Cause Major Water and Wind Damage
8/4/2020 (Permalink)
Hurricanes are accompanied by heavy rains and violent winds. Heavy rains can cause flooding, potentially devastating large areas in the path of the hurricane. High sustained winds within the storm can cause widespread damage to structures. The prevailing winds of a hurricane can cause a storm surge (wall of water). If the storm occurs during high tide, it causes beach erosion and inland flooding. Tornadoes can also be a result of a hurricane's high winds.
The extent of hurricane damage depends on the strength of the storm and how it makes contact with the land. It can level everything in its path or do very little damage. If your home or business is affected by water damage or wind damage, we can help.
For any and all storm damages, you can call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100.
Discover Secrets to Waterproofing Your Rockingham and Augusta Crawlspace Before Storms Set in
12/3/2019 (Permalink)
If your crawlspace is getting excess water, contact SERVPRO to remediate and offer waterproofing options for your home.
Waterproofing and Sump Pumps for Rockingham and Augusta Crawlspaces
Severe storms are a regular part of Rockingham and Augusta's weather. They flood homes quickly, leaving a mess of not only a homeowner’s personal property but also their residence itself. For homes with crawlspaces underneath, this can be a problem that affects the structural integrity, destroys items in storage, and even lead to a mold infestation if not dealt with quickly.
In these cases, waterproofing is needed for Rockingham and Augusta residential crawlspaces. SERVPRO restoration teams can seal off almost any type of leak into one unless there is major damage to the exterior walls or the sub-floor above it.
If standing water is a recurring issue with every rain, then the homeowner has two problems: Leaks and seeps into the crawlspace, and very slow or no drainage. Our technicians can address both of them simultaneously.
Team members remove water with a commercial pump and then use a combination of hand-drying methods and dehumidifiers to remove any moisture left in the crawlspace. Then they cover the dirt floor with thick, polyethylene sheets to serve as a vapor barrier, preventing water from seeping up inside. Team members extend these sheets up and onto the walls, securing them together and to the walls with two-sided, foundation tape.
Before securing them to the walls, however, an inspector carefully examines the walls for any cracks or leaks. SERVPRO specialists fill them with hydraulic cement that blocks further water intrusion. Next, they seal every wall with a masonry cement that reduces water seepage from outside the home. Once they complete the walls, team members seal the polyethylene sheets in place.
Water can still penetrate through wood floors, however. In areas that flood regularly, the solution for recurring flooding may be to install a sump pump. These devices work automatically, and when water is detected, they switch on to remove it until the level returns to normal. Our technicians can install a sump pump and have it working in a day.
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.
Preventing Your Pipes from Freezing
11/14/2019 (Permalink)
Tips for preventing frozen pipes inside and outside your home
Frozen Pipes Can Burst!
It has been colder here lately in Rockingham and Augusta Counties! When cold temperatures happen that can cause pipes to freeze. Frozen Pipes can result in costly repairs to you as a home or business owner. The good news is there are ways to prevent pipes from freezing. Here are some tips for this winter. Frozen pipes are a problem by themselves because they prevent water flow, but even worse, frozen pipes can eventually burst, causing damage and potential flooding. There are ways to protect your pipes from freezing. These include:
- Keeping your house warm - If you are leaving for a period of time, make sure that the heat is kept on at your property. You should inform them that the heat can help prevent pipes from freezing, and if pipes freeze and burst, it can cause a lot of water damage to the property and to their possessions. The heat doesn’t have to be kept as high as you normally would keep it if you were home but keeping it set above 50 degrees Fahrenheit at all times is a good idea. This should provide enough heat to keep the pipes warm and to prevent any water inside from freezing.
- Opening faucets - When temps hit the freezing level it is a good idea to allow faucets to drip. Allowing the faucet to be open like this will relieve pressure in the pipe. If a pipe freezes, it is actually the pressure that is created between the blockage and the faucet that will cause the pipe to burst. With the faucet open you avoid blockage in the pipes.
- Insulation is key - Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. This can be an easy solution for pipes that are exposed but can get expensive if walls, floors or ceilings have to be opened in order to properly insulate the pipe. Additional insulation can also be added to walls and ceilings to keep the pipes warm.
SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us at (540) 433-6100.
Taking on Storms with Technology
11/14/2019 (Permalink)
Free ERP App for your home or business
These days, it is important to be ready for a storm and disaster can strike at a moment’s notice! Technology working hard to let us be aware of danger with more time to prepare before it hits! Technology can also be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use on a day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare. Below are a few things that will help you be ready in the event of an emergency or disaster.
Store Information Online
There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer a free way to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggests saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records, and information on your pets, if necessary.
Follow the News
Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if a rescue is needed through Twitter.
Mark Yourself Safe
The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as safe or find family and friends in situations where communication is difficult to establish. Facebook also has a feature called Safety Check that is activated after natural disasters or a crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you’re located in the affected area at that time.
Get in Touch
Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and e-mail for communication with family, friends, business contacts, and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.
Charge Up
Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well. Get an Emergency READY Profile SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is proud to offer Emergency READY Profiles (ERP) for free at ready.SERVPRO.com to help prepares you, your property, or your business for an emergency. By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business. Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App. Get in touch with SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties today for more information on developing an ERP for your property or business!
Plan ahead for evacuation in the event of a storm for you and your pets
10/14/2019 (Permalink)
Storm Damage & Evacuation in Rockingham and Augusta County
SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties has these tips for people in our community dealing with disabilities during an evacuation. You may want to consider, during times of flooding, to pack a bag to have ready in case the worst happens.
Plan for backup if you have your own car. A storm or flood may damage your car.
Ask your healthcare provider to suggest what specific devices you might need if you need to evacuate due to an emergency:
- Where can I get medical supplies?
- How I do get accessible transportation?
- If medical help is needed, where would I go?
- Does this facility have a disability ramp access?
Items to bring with you:
- Written list for emergency contacts
- List of all medications, dosages, and allergies
- Style & serial number of medical devices
- Supply of medical equipment
- Extra battery for a power wheelchair
- Any cushions or padding
- Wheelchairs, canes, braces, etc.
- Medical bracelets
- Medical insurance cards
- List and/or supply of prescription medications
Our service animals are also affected by storm damage. For people who have service animals in Rockingham or Augusta County.
- Packing extra food, water, & other supplies for the service animal
- Tell emergency responders that your service animal travels with you
- Shelters and other buildings may not refuse entry to a service animal
Plan for individuals with special needs.
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.
Storm Preparedness May Save You Time, and Money In The Future
9/23/2019 (Permalink)
Storm preparedness is essential, but many people do not pay attention until it's too late. In 2018 there were 14 hazardous weather fatalities in Virginia, according to the National Weather Service. The property damage cost estimates due to storms were also staggering to consider. How ready are you? Do you know who to call if you have storm damage?
The key to disaster preparedness is having an emergency plan in place before disaster strikes. You may not be home or with family when disaster strikes. Plan in advance where you will meet and how you will contact each other. Visit www.ready.gov to access a Family Emergency Plan template to assist in your planning.
Storm and flood damage can be devastating. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. If you have storm-related damage, you will want expert advice and service to avoid more significant problems later. Issues like mold from water damage can make a simple issue into a costly mistake. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties (540) 433-6100. If you have water damage remember mold can spread throughout a property in as little as 48-72 hours.
Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certifications, rest assured our team is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. With a nationwide system of qualified franchises, no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties. We will respond immediately and use advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water quickly.
We can even help you with insurance. For a stress-free claims process, SERVPRO works with your insurance to help manage the insurance process and paperwork.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours, and neither do we. SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties (540) 433-6100 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week—including all holidays.
Be Prepared: Have an Emergency Plan for Your Vehicle
9/10/2019 (Permalink)
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today!! SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at 540-433-6100
To respond quickly in any disaster, your emergency planning should address every possible scenario. This includes emergencies while you’re in your vehicle; a roadside emergency can happen at any time. Below are key points to consider as you prepare a vehicle emergency plan:
- Keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car. This kit should contain food, water, first aid supplies, and other supplies. Below is a checklist of emergency supply items for your vehicle.
- Have an emergency plan for communicating and getting back together with your family if you are separated during a disaster.
- Keep a full tank of gas in your car if an evacuation seems likely. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies and unable to pump gas during power outages. Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and delay.
- If you are evacuating in your vehicle:
- Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather or poor air quality.
- Follow recommended evacuation routes (avoid shortcuts as they may be blocked).
- Watch out for downed power lines and washed-out roads and bridges. Do not drive into flooded areas.
Roadside Emergency Kit Checklist
- Cellular phone and charger
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Warning light, hazard triangle, or flares
- Tire gauge
- Jack and lug wrench
- Foam tire sealant or a portable compressor and plug kit
- Spare fuses
- Jumper cables or a portable battery booster
- Weatherproof flashlight
- Gloves, hand cleaner, and clean rags
- Auto-club card or roadside-assistance number (if you belong to an auto club or roadside-assistance program)
- $20 in small bills and change
- Pen and pad of paper
- Basic tools
- Extra clothing
- Water and nonperishable emergency food (enough for at least 3 days)
Why Choose SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties?
SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is locally owned and operated, and Harrisonburg, Elkton, Bridgewater, Keezletown, Dayton, Grottoes, Broadway, Timberville, Massanutten, Mount Crawford, and other local communities.
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.
Preparing your home and business for Winter Weather
11/27/2018 (Permalink)
Be prepared this winter
Winter weather is right around the corner so here are a few of our tips on how to keep your home and business disaster free.
• Keep cabinets in your kitchen and bathroom open to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing.
• Keep a slow trickle of water flowing through faucets, especially if the pipes for faucets run through unheated or uninsulated areas of your home.
• Consider installing specific products to insulate water pipes, such as “pipe sleeves” or just use a dark colored sock for outside spigots.
• Consider shutting off outdoor faucets. Find the shut-off valve in the basement or crawl space and turn it to “off”. Then make sure the outdoor faucet is open to help it drain completely while the inner valve is shut off.
• Ensure gutters are clean and secure. Allowing debris to accumulate could cause damming effects on gutters, leading to roof and water damage.
• If you are traveling, leave your furnace set to a temperature no lower than 55° F.
•Inspect property and pay specific attention to downed tree limbs and branches. Walkways and parking lots should be inspected for proper drainage. potential slippery or hazardous areas corrected with mats or non-slip surfaces.
•Preform or have a professional perform proper maintenance on your furnace.
•Contact SERVPRO about having an Emergency Ready Plan done for your business to ensure you are ready for any type of disaster.
•Contact SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at 540-433-6100 for help when winter weather strikes.
What’s the Difference - Flood Warning vs. Flood Watch
9/19/2018 (Permalink)
When there are heavy rains in our area, we might hear the words “flood warning” or “flood watch.” For many of us, either phrase tells us that we need to be alert to flooding. But did you know that there’s a significant difference between a “warning” and a “watch?”
Flood Watch
A flood watch is an alert that indicates the conditions are right for flooding to happen. However, it does not mean that flooding will necessarily occur. When you see this alert, you should prepare for flooding since it is a strong possibility. Monitor the local news or other reliable sources for updates.
Flood Warning
A flood warning is announced when flooding is either impending or already occurring. When you get this alert, you should take immediate action and monitor official channels to get updates on the condition. If you’re unsure what to do during a flood, check out the resources at Ready.gov!
Monitor News or Radio Stations
Because weather can be unpredictable, always keep an eye on your local news or radio stations. Many of them will also have apps or websites that offer real-time updates. As long as you are familiar with the phrases they use, you’ll be able to act accordingly when they issue alerts. In fact, they just might save your life.
How To Know If The Flood Damage In Your Home Is Serious
9/19/2018 (Permalink)
Categories Of Water Intrusion
At SERVPRO, we like to remind our customers that no restoration job is impossible. While severe flooding can lead to complete destruction of some items, there are always others that are salvageable. In fact, as long as repairs get started within two days of the original incident, the chance of full remediation is high.
Nevertheless, the scope and intensity of the repairs depend on how much water is inside the house and which materials are already wet. When handling flood damage in Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, our technicians carry out an inspection first to determine the level of water intrusion. The assessment adheres to official guidelines from the IICRC. Keep reading to learn more about the categories of water intrusion and what they mean for residents.
Class One
Class one involves minimal water intrusion, which means that this is the least serious type of water damage. Most items affected are non-porous (concrete floors, appliances, etc.) In this case, only limited repairs are necessary. Pumping is enough to extract most of the liquid, after which a small dehumidifier can be used to complete the job. Typical Scenario: a toilet overflows onto a sealed tile floor.
Class Two
There is a significant volume of water. Several porous items are affected (curtains, carpets, etc.) The extraction takes longer, in this case, because more water is absorbed. Dehumidifiers are used (for longer periods) to draw water vapor out of soft materials. Typical Scenario: a burst water pipe inside a gypsum board wall.
Class Three
Substantial amounts of standing water remain after the incident. Many porous items have absorbed flood liquids. The most intensive rates of evaporation are required to extract it in a timely fashion. The SERVPRO technicians probably need to lift carpets and (in some cases) make holes in the walls to increase ventilation. Typical Scenario: natural flooding causes rapid water intrusion, which quickly soaks the ground floor.
Class Four
The most severe type of flood damage involves water that gets trapped between building materials. It is tough to handle, takes a long time to restore, and it does cause lengthy disruptions to regular routines. The drying process is complex and requires the use of considerable vapor pressure differentials. Typical Scenario: a severe sewage overflow or backup that soaks through the walls.
At SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, we approach every emergency with a unique strategy. Our repair methods are tailored to fit the needs of your home and guarantee a fast, effective restoration. Call us 24/7 at (540) 433-6100 today.
When Storms or Floods hit Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, SERVPRO is ready!
9/18/2018 (Permalink)
Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Harrisonburg/Rockingham County.
SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County 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 Harrisonburg/Rockingham County, 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 Team, Harrisonburg/Rockingham County that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today!! SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County at 540-433-6100
When Wind & Rainstorms Flood Your Home
9/18/2018 (Permalink)
When Wind & Rainstorms Flood Your Home
When heavy rains and high winds hit hard, property destruction and loss can be devastating to you as a homeowner. Structural damage to the exterior of your home is followed by interior devastation from water and winds. Storm damage is rarely isolated to just a few buildings in an area adding the challenge of finding a restoration company that can respond swiftly to your needs to an already anxiety provoking situation. SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County delivers the help you need. We are able to call upon a network of over 1,650 franchises nationwide to respond.
Storm damage can feel overwhelming, but your fear and panic will disappear when our team of professionals responds to your water, wind and flooding repair and restoration needs. Your particular situation is of paramount importance to us, and you need not worry that your repairs and restoration will take a back seat even when many in your area are struggling to recover from the same issues you face.
Call SERVPRO of Harrisonburg/Rockingham County. We are Here to Help!
Flood Damage
8/3/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties is Here to Help Restore Your Home after Flood Damage
When a severe storm rolls into town, it is possible that it will bring flood damage with it. Storms often have aggressive winds and heavy rain. In fact, it is not uncommon for high-speed winds to knock over trees and other structures.The young tree in your front yard can easily smash a window if it is uprooted and thrown against your home. The broken window can allow gallons of water into your home.
A storm can leave several inches of damaging flood waters in your home. Water removal of this degree is not a job that any ordinary homeowner should have to tackle alone. Storms can easily carry dangerous toxins in their waters by tearing up sewage pipes and chemical containers. When storms bring black water with them, the cleanup process should be left to the professionals.
Our skilled technicians can arrive at your home as quickly as possible to begin the clean-up process. Our technicians use advanced equipment to remove the flood water, including extractors and pumps. We strive to get the water out of your home with speed and efficiency, and these tools allow us to do just that.
After SERVPRO removes the water, we clean up and remove any debris left by the storm. It is not uncommon for twigs, rocks, broken glass, and garden decorations to get inside of your home. If black water has soaked through your carpets, we work to remove it as quickly as possible, as the presence of black water can be detrimental to one’s health.
SERVPRO can then use tools like ventilation box fans, air movers, and refrigerant dehumidifiers to dry out the structure of your home in order to prevent mold growth.
If your home becomes flooded after a storm, do not hesitate. Call SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties at (540) 433-6100.
24/7 Emergency Service
