How Storms Can Damage Your Foundation and How to Prevent It

9/18/2024 (Permalink)

If you see signs of damage or need help with storm repairs, contact SERVPRO of Arlington/Jacksonville East!

Living in Jacksonville, FL, we know how frequent storms and heavy rain can be. While we often think about immediate damage like fallen trees, roof leaks, or flooding, storms can also have a serious impact on your home's foundation. Understanding how this happens can help you take steps to protect your home and address any issues early.

How Storms Impact Your Foundation

Storms can do a lot more than just mess up your yard. They can cause real problems for your home's foundation, leading to structural issues if not dealt with promptly. Here’s how storms can affect your foundation:

Soil Erosion and Water Damage

Heavy rain and flooding can wash away the soil around your home. When the ground that supports your foundation gets washed away, it can cause the foundation to settle or shift, which isn’t good news. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the U.S., so it’s something to take seriously.

Hydrostatic Pressure

During big storms, water can build up around your foundation. This creates hydrostatic pressure, which can push against your foundation walls and cause cracks or leaks. Over time, these cracks can get bigger and lead to major structural problems.

Tree Roots and Vegetation

Storms can also affect the trees and plants around your house. When the ground is saturated with water, tree roots can expand and put pressure on your foundation walls. This can lead to cracks and other issues.

Signs of Foundation Damage

Catching foundation damage early can save you a lot of trouble down the line. Here are some common signs to look out for:

Cracks in Walls and Floors

If you notice cracks in your walls or floors, it could mean your foundation is shifting. These cracks can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal and should be checked out as soon as possible.

Sticking Doors and Windows

Doors and windows that suddenly become hard to open or close might be a sign of foundation problems. Shifting foundations can cause frames to become misaligned, making them difficult to operate.

Uneven Floors

If your floors start to sag or become uneven, it’s a good idea to have your foundation inspected. Uneven floors are a common sign of foundation issues.

Preventing and Addressing Foundation Damage

There are several steps you can take to prevent foundation damage and address any issues that come up:

Proper Drainage

Make sure your property has good drainage to prevent water from pooling around your foundation. This includes keeping gutters and downspouts clean, ensuring your yard slopes away from your home, and possibly installing French drains.

Regular Inspections

Check your foundation regularly for signs of damage, especially after heavy storms. Look for cracks or shifts and address them quickly to prevent more serious problems.

Tree and Vegetation Management

Keep trees and plants well-maintained to prevent root growth from damaging your foundation. Plant trees a safe distance from your home and regularly trim branches to reduce storm damage risk.

When to Call a Professional

If you think your foundation might be damaged, it’s important to call a professional. Foundation problems can be complex and need expert attention. Ignoring these issues can lead to more severe damage and higher repair costs.

Protect Your Home's Foundation

Storms can do a lot of damage to your home's foundation, but understanding how and taking steps to prevent it can make a big difference. If you see signs of damage or need help with storm repairs, contact SERVPRO of Arlington/Jacksonville East. Our team is ready to help with professional restoration services to keep your home safe and sound. Stay alert and take action to protect your home from the hidden dangers of storm damage!

Preventing and Repairing Roof Leaks

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

If you're facing a problem like this, call SERVPRO immediately!

Are you hearing the dreaded drip-drip-drip of a roof leak? Roof leaks are not only a nuisance but can also lead to significant damage to your property if left unattended. At SERVPRO®, we understand the importance of maintaining a leak-free roof to protect your home or business. In this blog post, we'll discuss some preventive measures and repair tips to keep your roof in top condition.

Preventive Measures

The best defense is a good offense, so let’s dive into a few preventative measures you can employ before there is a problem to deal with.

• Regular Inspections: Schedule annual roof inspections to catch any potential issues before they escalate into major leaks. Look for cracked or missing shingles, damaged flashing, and signs of wear and tear.

• Keep Gutters Clean: Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow onto your roof, leading to water damage and leaks. Clean your gutters regularly to ensure proper drainage.

• Trim Overhanging Branches: Overhanging branches can rub against your roof, causing damage to shingles and creating entry points for water. Trim back branches to prevent this from happening.

• Seal Cracks and Gaps: Inspect your roof for any cracks or gaps and seal them promptly with caulk or roofing cement to prevent water intrusion.

• Proper Ventilation: Ensure your attic has proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup, which can contribute to roof deterioration and leaks.

Repair Tips

When you do have a roof leak on your hands, hope isn’t lost! Here are a few tips on how to deal with the issue.

• Address Shingle Damage: Replace any cracked, curled, or missing shingles immediately to prevent water from seeping into your home.

• Fix Flashing Issues: Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights can allow water to penetrate your roof. Repair or replace damaged flashing to prevent leaks.

• Patch Small Leaks: If you notice a small leak, patch it temporarily with roofing cement or a patching kit until you can schedule a professional repair.

• Replace Damaged Underlayment: If your roof has a damaged underlayment, it can compromise its integrity and lead to leaks. Replace damaged underlayment promptly to prevent further damage.

• Professional Repair: For extensive damage or persistent leaks, it's best to enlist the help of a professional roofing contractor. They have the expertise and equipment to assess the extent of the damage and provide effective repairs.

By following these preventive measures and repair tips, you can keep your roof in excellent condition and prevent costly water damage to your property. Remember, a well-maintained roof is key to protecting your home or business from the elements.

At SERVPRO, we're here to help you with all your water damage restoration needs. If you're dealing with a roof leak or any other water-related issues, don't hesitate to contact us for prompt and professional assistance. Stay dry and leak-free!

The Critical Need for Swift Storm Damage Cleanup: Safeguarding Property and Occupant Safety

1/9/2024 (Permalink)

Severe storms can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, and it's crucial to address the aftermath promptly to prevent further harm. A swift response to storm damage cleanup can mitigate further destruction, minimize financial losses, and ensure the safety of occupants. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of prompt storm damage cleanup and how taking swift action can make all the difference in the recovery process.

Safety First

Before beginning any storm damage cleanup, prioritize safety for yourself and all occupants of the property. Check for any exposed electrical wires and downed power lines. Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves, goggles, and boots, to protect against hazards and potential contaminants.

Prevent Further Damage

Prompt cleanup of debris can prevent further damage or accidents. Clear any fallen branches, trees, or other objects that might cause further damage to the property or pose a threat to passersby. Cover broken windows and roofs with tarps or other temporary measures to prevent water intrusion.

Mitigate Water Damage

Water damage caused by storms can be severe and can lead to mold growth and other issues. Use appropriate equipment, such as pumps and high-powered fans, to remove standing water and mitigate moisture-related issues. Seek professional help if water damage is extensive or if mold or other hazards are present.

Prevent Pest Infestations

Pests, such as rodents and insects, can quickly multiply after a storm and cause additional damage and hazards. Clear away any debris that might attract pests, such as food or water. Consider hiring a professional pest control service to prevent potential infestations.

Insurance Claims

Taking prompt action in the aftermath of a storm damage event can facilitate the insurance claims process. Document the damage as soon as possible with photographs and written descriptions. Keep all receipts and records of cleanup activities, as they may be requested as part of the insurance claims process.

Professional Cleanup Services

In more severe storm damage events, professional cleanup services may be needed. Qualified professionals have the necessary equipment and expertise to address more extensive damage and safely remove hazardous materials. Consider hiring licensed and insured professionals with expertise in storm damage to ensure that the property is cleaned up thoroughly and efficiently.

Maintaining Property Value

Prompt storm damage cleanup can help maintain the property's value and prevent further damage. Timely response can minimize the need for more extensive, expensive repairs down the road. Regular maintenance and inspection can help to prevent extensive damage in future storm-related events.

Prompt storm damage cleanup is critical for minimizing further harm, mitigating risks, and ensuring the safety of occupants. Taking immediate action to prevent further damage, mitigate water damage, address potential pest infestations, and document damage will facilitate the insurance claims process. If extensive damage has occurred, professional cleanup services should be engaged. Remember that timely response can help maintain the property's value and prevent more costly long-term repairs. Give SERVPRO of Arlington/ Jacksonville East a call for your storm cleanup and water damage restoration services. 

A Comprehensive Approach: Minimizing Water Damage, Water Mitigation, and Water Damage Restoration During a Hurricane

9/24/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricanes bring not only strong winds but also heavy rainfall, increasing the risk of water damage to homes and properties. Minimizing water damage during a hurricane requires a comprehensive approach that includes proactive measures, effective water mitigation strategies, and timely water damage restoration. In this blog post, we will explore how to minimize water damage, the importance of water mitigation, and the process of water damage restoration during a hurricane.

Proactive Measures to Minimize Water Damage

Taking proactive measures before a hurricane strikes can help reduce the extent of water damage to your property. Clearing gutters, installing downspout extensions, sealing gaps and cracks, and elevating belongings and appliances are some key steps to consider. By addressing these areas, you can prevent water from entering your home and minimize the potential for damage.

The Role of Water Mitigation

Water mitigation plays a crucial role in minimizing the effects of water damage during a hurricane. Water mitigation involves taking immediate action to control and reduce the extent of water damage as soon as it occurs. This may include extracting standing water, drying affected areas, and preventing further damage through the use of dehumidifiers and air movers. Implementing water mitigation strategies promptly can help prevent mold growth, structural damage, and other long-term issues.

Understanding Water Damage Restoration

Once the immediate concerns of water mitigation have been addressed, the next step is water damage restoration. Water damage restoration involves restoring the affected area back to its preloss condition. This process includes activities such as repairing damaged structures, replacing flooring and drywall, removing mold if necessary, and ensuring that the property is safe and habitable again. Water damage restoration may also involve working closely with professionals who specialize in this field to ensure a thorough and effective restoration process.

Hiring Professional Water Damage Restoration Services

To effectively minimize water damage and ensure proper water mitigation and restoration, it is highly recommended to hire professional water damage restoration services. Experienced professionals have the knowledge, expertise, and specialized equipment to handle water damage situations effectively. They can assess the extent of the damage, implement water mitigation strategies, and carry out the necessary restoration work to bring your property back to its preloss condition.

The Importance of Timely Action

When dealing with water damage during a hurricane, timely action is crucial. The longer water sits and soaks into structures and belongings, the greater the damage and the higher the risk of mold growth. Acting promptly to mitigate water damage and begin the water damage restoration process can significantly minimize the long-term effects and associated costs.

Minimizing water damage during a hurricane requires a comprehensive approach that includes proactive measures, effective water mitigation, and timely water damage restoration. By taking proactive steps to minimize water entry, implementing water mitigation strategies as soon as damage occurs, and hiring professional water damage restoration services, you can effectively reduce the impact of water damage on your property. Remember, timeliness is of utmost importance. By acting quickly, you can minimize the long-term effects of water damage and restore your property to its preloss condition efficiently.

Top 6 Tips for Flood Prevention for Homes and Businesses

6/18/2023 (Permalink)

Flooding can cause extensive damage to both homes and businesses, resulting in significant financial loss and emotional distress. However, with proper flood prevention measures in place, you can minimize the risk and potential damage. In this blog, we will share essential tips to help homeowners and businesses protect their properties and mitigate the impact of flooding.

Understand Your Property's Flood Risk

Start by assessing the flood risk associated with your property. Research local flood zones and historical flood data. Consult with professionals or local authorities to determine the likelihood of flooding in your area. This information will help you understand the potential hazards and make informed decisions about flood prevention measures.

Maintain Proper Drainage Systems

Ensure that your property's drainage systems, such as gutters, downspouts, and drains, are regularly cleaned and free of debris. Clogged drains can lead to water backup and increase the risk of flooding. Regularly inspect and maintain these systems to allow water to flow away from your property effectively.

Install Sump Pumps

Consider installing sump pumps in your crawl space, as they can effectively remove excess water during a flood. Sump pumps are designed to automatically activate and pump out water, preventing it from accumulating and causing damage to your property's foundation or structure.

Waterproof Your Property

Invest in proper waterproofing measures to protect your property. Apply sealants or coatings to basement walls and floors, ensuring they are impermeable to water. Install window well covers to prevent water from seeping through basement windows. Additionally, consider using flood-resistant building materials and elevating essential equipment or utilities above flood levels.

Create a Flood Emergency Plan

Develop an actionable flood emergency plan for your home or business. This plan should include emergency contact information, evacuation routes, and a designated safe meeting point. Ensure that all family members or employees are aware of the plan and know what to do in case of a flood. Regularly review and update the plan as needed.

Secure Valuables and Documents

Store important documents, sentimental items, and valuable possessions in waterproof containers or at higher elevations within your property. Consider making digital copies of essential documents and storing them securely online. This will help protect these items from damage during a flood and make the recovery process smoother.

By following these top tips for flood prevention, homeowners and businesses can significantly reduce the risk and impact of flooding. Understanding flood risks, maintaining drainage systems, installing sump pumps, waterproofing, creating a flood emergency plan, and securing valuables are all critical steps in protecting your property. Remember, early preparation and taking proactive measures are key to minimizing the damage caused by flooding and ensuring the safety and well-being of your home or business.

What To Do When the Storm Clears and the Flooding Recedes

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Hurricane damage in Glynlea, FL.

A hurricane, like any natural disaster, is a stressful event. But once the storm passes and the floodwaters recede, you'll have to assess the damage and start cleaning up. This can be overwhelming: not only are there large debris items that need removing from your home or business premises, but you also have to decide whether to hire a professional cleaner or do it yourself. Below is an overview of what to consider when deciding what actions to take after a hurricane has caused flooding in your area.

Safety

When the storm clears and flooding recedes, it is important to be safe. While it may be tempting to walk through flood waters or drive through standing water, this can put you at risk of injury or death. When in doubt, turn around and go the other way. If your car stalls in a flooded area, get out and move to higher ground before attempting to restart your vehicle. 

Emergency communication

When the storm has passed and the floods recede, you will have to deal with several obstacles before you can begin rebuilding. One key concern is communicating with loved ones who may have been separated from you during the storm.

For those without power or cell phone service, this can be a difficult problem to overcome. However, there are several things you can do to ensure that family members continue to stay in contact with each other:

• First, make sure that everyone knows where their phones are supposed to be charged at home. If one person's phone is missing or broken due to water damage, then it might be possible for them or another family member to borrow one of theirs if they know where their charger is located.
• It's also important for families and communities not only keep in touch but also share vital information about resources like food pantries or shelters so they know where they can turn if necessary. 

Food and water safety

Food safety guidelines:

• Check the temperature of your refrigerator, freezer, and other appliances to make sure they're still cold. If any of them are warmer than 40 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius), discard any food that may have been exposed to unsafe temperatures and clean the appliance thoroughly.
• The same goes for food in other places—like your pantry or garage refrigerator—as well as leftovers from meals you prepared earlier this month. Throw away anything that's been above 41°F (5°C) for more than 2 hours and get rid of any items with an unusual odor or appearance.

Medical needs

If you are injured because of the flooding, seek medical care. If you have any health conditions — such as diabetes or asthma — or take medications, check with your doctor about what to do during a flood. Make sure that you have enough medication to last until the storm passes!

Electrical safety

• Don't touch downed power lines. If you see a downed power line, don't touch it!
• Don't drive through flooded areas. The water may be deeper than it looks and can hide objects that could cause damage to your car or injure its occupants.
• Generators must be used with caution. Do not use a generator in a garage or basement where carbon monoxide gas could build up and become deadly.

Some things are acceptable to clean up on your own, while others should be left to professionals.

The first step is determining whether your property is safe to enter. If there are warnings of potential structural damage or other dangers, it’s best not to enter until local authorities have given clearance. After that, proceed with caution: if you have any doubt about your ability to safely remove something from your home or business, call in an expert for help.

Cleaners and disinfectants should be used only when cleaning up mold-contaminated items like sheetrock or furniture — not on drywall or carpeting. Avoid contact with floodwater and standing water altogether; use rubber gloves whenever possible when handling wet items like clothing or bedding as these can contain harmful bacteria.

Following these tips will help you get back to normal after your Glynlea, FL home has been flooded. It’s important to remember that it doesn’t happen overnight, so don’t be discouraged if progress seems slow or stalled at times. Don’t forget that there are plenty of organizations and agencies out there willing to help if you need some assistance!

3 Flood Safety Tips To Follow

8/28/2022 (Permalink)

Flood Safety Tips

Before, during and after a flood in Arlington, FL, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure how to best keep yourself safe. There are certain flood safety suggestions that can help you navigate your home after a flood.

1. Avoid Electrical Systems

Electrical systems in your home can be hazardous to handle after a flood. Though you might think you can remove small amounts of water that surround electrical systems on your own, it’s often wise to instead allow water damage restoration experts to safely remove the water from your home. Even if the area surrounding any outlets, wires or systems appears unaffected by water, it’s often best to avoid the area.

2. Obtain and Access Necessary Supplies

There are particular supplies that are often useful to have during and after a flood. Having adequate amounts of drinkable water for every person in your home can be helpful since floodwater often is unsafe to drink. It can also be wise to have nonperishable food items and important medications on hand. Part of flood safety also means making sure you can easily access the materials and items without putting yourself at risk.

3. Make Preparations Before Disaster Strikes

Though many people don’t like to think their homes will be affected by a flood, thinking about safety tips before a disaster occurs can be incredibly useful. Storing insurance information, social security cards and other important documents in water-resistant containers can be important, as you may need to access these items after a flood. Additionally, preparing and practicing an evacuation plan can also help you react to a flood in a manner that is safe and timely.

Being informed about flood safety can help you feel more prepared for a flood. Avoiding electrical systems, obtaining and keeping track of important supplies and preparing before a natural disaster occurs are helpful ways to bolster your safety.

How To Recover From a Flood if You Don't Have Insurance

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

How To Recover From a Flood if You Don't Have Insurance

Sometimes, those who do not live in a flood plane may not feel the need to purchase flood insurance. However, every home is susceptible to flooding. If your Spring Glen, FL, home is affected by a flood, and you are uninsured, there are many institutions that may be able to help.

Nonprofit Organizations
After a flood occurs, check with nonprofit organizations, such as the American Red Cross, to see what assistance they are able to offer. The Red Cross is experienced in delivering emergency provisions and cleanup supplies to those in need. They can help with finding temporary shelter or longer-term housing. Other organizations that may have resources to help include United Way, Salvation Army, and smaller local charities. Throughout most of the United States, you can dial 211 and find assistance for a variety of issues, including help after a flood.

FEMA and Other Government Organizations
Many government organizations also help individuals without flood insurance recover. Check with the following agencies to see if you qualify for assistance:

Federal Emergency Management Agency
Small Business Administration
State and local government programs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency provides assistance to those affected by natural disasters through the Individuals and Households Program. These funds may be allocated for temporary housing, medical care, rebuilding costs, or other necessary expenses. The SBA offers loans to individuals who have been affected by declared disasters. Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for a loan to replace or repair their personal property, and homeowners may apply for funds to rebuild. Check with your local government to see if another assistance is available. In some cases, you may be able to use funds from the government to hire a certified restoration service.
Although flood insurance makes recovering from a flood easier, it is possible for the uninsured to also get help by reaching out to government and nonprofit agencies. These institutions may be able to help with acute needs as well as rebuilding.

3 Types of Category 3 Water Damage

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

Three Different Types of Category 3 Water Damage

Flooding that occurs in St Nicholas, FL, can have a serious effect on your property. This is especially true of floods that have an outdoor source, as it is usually filled with sewage, bacteria and chemicals. This is what flood removal technicians call black water due to its degree of uncleanliness. This kind of water can cause a variety of damage, and recognizing what it can do to your home can help you understand when you need assistance with water removal and restoration.

1. Standing Black Water
When outdoor floodwater enters your home, it can seriously degrade the building materials and damage them to the point where they may have to be removed. The longer the water sits, the more it is likely to ruin drywall, furniture and stored items. The sooner you have it removed and disposed of properly, the better.

2. Mold Growth
Category 3 floodwater can trigger mold growth in any room it enters. Because mold spores thrive on humidity and moisture, an area affected by this dirty water can experience the encroachment of mold within 24-48 hours of the flood. While its removal is important to prevent mold, it is best to wait for restoration technicians to assist you, as they have the proper removal and disposal tools to do so safely.

3. Sewage and Moisture Odor
Dirty floodwater can soak into walls, ceilings and carpeting, leaving behind a foul odor once the sewage cleanup is complete. A flood mitigation and restoration service can help you salvage items with specialized cleaning equipment and ozone machines to clean the air in any affected areas so no sewage odors linger.
Black water floods in St Nicholas, FL, can have many different effects on your home and ruin building materials and treasured family items. Understanding what far-reaching problems they may cause can help you prevent the loss of time and money.

3 Precautionary Steps for Preventing Roof Leaks

4/12/2022 (Permalink)

Steps To Avoid a Roof Leak

There are many things that can lead to a roof leak, from aged, malfunctioning shingles to wind damage from a natural disaster. The presence of one has the potential to cause a great deal of inconvenience and water damage that may require the services of a professional cleanup and restoration company in Glynlea, FL, to deal with. Its existence may promote the growth and spread of mold, compromise structural integrity, create a fire hazard by allowing liquid to drip on live wires and more. There are some steps business owners can take to avoid a leaky roof in the first place.

1. Perform Regular Maintenance
Commercial properties require regular repairs and checkups. One way to head off a potential roof leak is to keep up with some necessary tasks:

• Clean out the gutters and storm drains
  
• Remove debris from the roof (it can cause water to pool, leading to damage)
  
• Replace damaged shingles
  
• Make sure sealant/caulking is working properly
  
  

2. Remove Potential Nature Hazards
Trees close to the structure need to be cut down and overhanging branches trimmed off. They have the potential to punch holes in, scratch, rip shingles off and otherwise harm the top of buildings, causing leaks. Getting rid of them is the best way to eliminate the risks they pose.

3. Inspect the Roof Closely
A regular inspection is also vital. The surface of the roof itself, its penetrations (pipes, drains and other components that go through it), the perimeter and the underside all need to be carefully evaluated, especially if severe weather is expected. Holes, cracks, mold, deterioration, rotting materials, wear and tear and missing or broken shingles are all things that can cause trouble and need to be dealt with.
A roof leak can be a pain to deal with. Implementing measures to keep one from occurring in the first place is a good idea and can help commercial property owners avoid a mess.

What to Know About Restoration and Your Company

2/18/2022 (Permalink)

Commercial water restoration in Monument, FL.

What You Should Know About Restoration and Your Business

When your company in Monument, FL, experiences flooding and contamination by black water, your staff may wonder if it's safe to come to work during the restoration process. Many restoration experts recommend staying away from the building during certain steps in the process, however, staff may be able to return to work sooner than expected.

The Business Building May Need to Stay Closed for Some Steps

Many damage and restoration professionals recommend either closing or moving business off-site while certain repairs are underway. These restoration steps may include

• Water removal
  
• Decontamination of the affected area
  
• Necessary demolition or cutaway work
  
• Mold remediation efforts
  
  

Some Tasks Can Be Performed from Alternate Locations

While the company building is cleansed of black water and then decontaminated, some parts of your business may be able to continue from an alternate location. If your business’s electronic files are backed up onto a server, then your IT company may be able to set you up on an alternate computer. Phone calls may be able to transfer to a different line, and some employees may be able to work from home.

When it May Be Safe to Return

After the flood cleanup, staff may be allowed to return to parts of the building that are not under construction. Air filtration devices may still be in use to improve air quality while restoration efforts are underway. There may also be some areas of the building that are inaccessible until repairs are complete. However, with the permission of the restoration company, employees can get back to work.

During a black water cleanup at a place of business, it's important to remember that because of certain steps in the restoration process the building may need to remain closed for repair. Fortunately, the company may be able to perform some tasks off-site. After any damaged material and water has been removed, staff may be allowed to return to the building and resume work.