Contents in Water?

4/25/2023 (Permalink)

Your home has been affected by water damage and so have your belongings. What should you do to help your contents? Moving wet contents out of the water into a safe dry spot. Now be cautious, you’re not just taking wet items and allowing the water to affect another area of the home. Best to store these wet belongings in concrete storage room, garage, patio and still dry those out with air movers.

If it’s wet, is it damaged and need replaced?

Just because an item is in contact with water means is damaged. If the water was not contaminated by sewage for example a plastic tote can be wiped off dry and will be salvageable. However, on a particle board bookshelf you may see the bottom swell and will not be able to be in the condition it was prior to the water damage.

Items we’ve seen some people claim as damage in water?

1. Pool Noodle
2. Beach Umbrella
3. Clothes

These are often not justified as damaged. Because they are made to get wet. Even clothes can be washed.

What do you need for your insurance? It’s between the customer and the insurance to justify the contents as damaged. We will show you why we’d suggest its damaged and the customer can determine if they agree or if they find any other items that appear to be damaged. You’re normally looking for visible damage or proof that it was in the water. However high-ticket items may be justified for repair instead of replacement such as a washing machine. Your insurance will want a photo, a description of the item and the replacement cost of what you can go buy the item at the store today for cost.

Is my LVP waterproof? How much water?

3/24/2023 (Permalink)

LVP - Glue Down installed in a Kitchen

The new trending floor on the market is called LVP or Luxury Vinyl Plank flooring. This flooring is labeled everywhere as WATERPROOF! However how much water are we talking about. Due to how the material is constructed while the material is not going to change when in contact with water does not mean that it will not need to be removed in a home water damage.

Why may this waterproof flooring need to be removed or replaced? While it’s made to withstand everyday accidents like a pet accident, a spilled glass of water, kids getting out of the bathtub. It’s not 100 percent airtight meaning what can find a gap and affect the surrounding material that will need to be dried.

Can you remove and re-install this flooring. Short answer, yes. However it’s not easily done as pieces can break during remove/replacing, each piece would need to be cleaned down and installed in the same order it was removed to prevent from needing more material. Insurance companies most often will agree to pay for replacement of this flooring if it becomes wet and needs to dry the subfloor to prevent any headaches at trying to put a puzzle together.

Carpet, Can it be saved in water damage?

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

This is an example of separation of the carpet backing making it difficult to property re-attach after drying.

A frequent question asked among the customer who experience water damage is can the carpet be saved? When the technician inspects the site they will evaluate several factors to judge all the materials restorability. 

• How many days/hours has the water been in contact with the material? 
• Is the water contaminated such as sewage? 
• Is there mold growth in the area? 
• Is the carpet showing signs of wear where will prohibit it to be re-attached after drying? 

Upon these items being investigated the tech will document the necessary items of concern and discuss with insurance when needed to follow the specific insurance guidelines. 

What flooring is best in a water damage scenario?

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

A photo of Vinyl Flooring.

Most customers after they experience a water damage in their home want to have a flooring change that may prevent it from being removed in a future water damage. While there are many factors that determine a floors restorability here are some of the general rules to follow:

• Wood Laminate Flooring such as the brand of Pergo is made of compressed wood and will swell and become damaged in a water loss. It is often installed my homeowners themselves due to the cost being low of material. However it is not durable and can not be refinished.
• Solid Wood Flooring(Hardwood)- When a water loss occurs and the homeowner begin remediation with specialized flooring drying equipment these floors can often be saved. If the customer waits over 48 hours the damage may be irreversible. Hardwood floors take on average 5-7 days to dry. These floors can be refinished
• Ceramic Tile Flooring – These floors resist wear and moisture. These floors need to be installed by a professional as improper grout can cause the floor to lift in the future. These are a great option for the water prone areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and basement.
• Luxury Vinyl Tile(LVT) or Luxury Vinyl Planks (LVP) This has become a popular choice for customer in this day in age. It is made from PVC where it can handle water. These often click together installed or glue down. The material will not become damaged by the water but if the floor is floating the material will need to be lifted to get the trapped moisture from beneath. The floor is unlikely to be able to be taken up in a manor where it can be reinstalled as the joints will break and trying to map it out in the same order you took it up in.
• Glue Down Carpet- This is often installed without padding and a thin carpet material designed to be glued. You can see this most common in basement of commercial buildings. This carpet can be dried when it a non-contaminated water source.
• Carpet & Pad – When remediation begins quickly the carpe can often be saved however the padding most often needs to be disposed of. The carpet will be lifted/detached, and the padding is removed. The technician will inspect for any signs of delamination for un-restorability.

Do I need to Hire SERVPRO for my water damage?

11/3/2021 (Permalink)

A photo of a computer program called drybook.

When a home or business is affected by water damage there is a science to the drying to ensure additional damage dose not occur. Our technicians attend a several days course to learn the fundamentals of properly drying from the IICRC. At SERVPRO we have a program called “DryBook” where we enter the dimension of the room with conditions to calculate the correct quantity of air movers and dehumidifiers. This will justify the charge for the equipment is fair to the customer and/or insurance provider.

This program also allows us to track the daily reading of humidity and temperatures along with the material readings. The technicians will make daily adjustments of the placement of the equipment to of where areas need more focus of drying. We use our industry specialized moisture meters to determine the reading. Customer can not rely of a touch of a surface to determine its moisture content. The technicians training will also allow them understanding the moisture readings as some materials have different industry standards of what a dry reading is.

When your home or business is affected by water damage do not assume you understand what the process or area the moisture is located. Call SERVPRO of Chambersburg at 717-261-0310.

The Process Of Water Damage

4/1/2021 (Permalink)

This basement was flooded due to a outside water faucet being left on.

What now? 

You have recently experienced a water damage but are unsure of what needs to happen next. We have listed out a few tips to help you through if you ever experience water damage. 

Find the source. 

Sometimes it may be hard to find the source of the water damage, however it is important do find the source to stop any more water from entering the home. The most common items to cause water damage are hot water heaters, sump pump failures, broken pipes, drain backups, and toilet supply lines. 

Call A Plumber. 

If you are able to confirm the cause of loss call a plumber to get on schedule for them to come fix the issue. If you are unsure of exactly where the water is coming from a plumber will be able to assist in finding where as well. 

Call Your Insurance Company. 

Water damage can be a very costly event. A lot of the time a lot of material has to be removed in order to dry the structure out correctly. We always recommend to our customers to call their insurance company and start a claim. Due to the way some policies may be written some water damages may not be covered depending on what the source is. It is also important to make sure you have any special add on to your policy such as sewage back up, and sump pump failures. 

Call SERVPRO. 

SERVPRO runs a 24/7 365 day service and can arrive at your home within hours to begin the water mitigation process. It is always important to address water damage correctly due to the risk of mold growing it is not dried correctly. Our highly trained team have water monitors to ensure that we remove all the wet materials as well as to ensure that the materials that can be dried are in fact dry at the end of our job. Our technicians will arrive and access the job to see what exactly needs to be done such as extracting water, moving contents, removing wet materials such as carpet pad, drywall, baseboard etc. At the end of the initial day we place air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the structure. A typical water damage takes roughly three days to dry, however  there are some times that it may take up to five days to dry depending on the material we are attempting to dry. 

We Communicate With Your Insurance Company. 

Throughout your water damage claim our team is in contact with your insurance company and adjuster to make sure everyone involved is on the same page. We document everything with photos, meter readings, and paperwork that all gets sent to you as well as your adjuster. 

Repairs?

After everything is dry our local SERVPRO offers repair services. The benefit of hiring SERVPRO for the repairs is that we handle all the scheduling of subcontractors and follow along with the adjusters repair estimate to ensure that home is put back together to preloss condition. Some claims require multiple services, such as plumber, electricians, drywallers, painters, flooring companies and more. It can helpful and less stressful for a homeowner when SERVPRO of Chambersburg coordinates the repairs due to the multiple steps that have to take place. 

Sump Pump Failed But Not Covered?

3/18/2021 (Permalink)

A sump pump failed overnight flooded this homeowners basement.

Spring showers doesn't always just bring May flowers but may also include a flooded basement. Unfortunately, when an area experiences heavy rain fall a lot of sump pumps will fail leaving the homeowner with water in their basement. Sump pumps can fail throughout the year, for example this past Christmas our area experienced heavy rain that ended up melting several inches of snow that led to call after call. A lot of our customers were running into coverage issues. This is because most insurance companies sometimes do not automatically include sump pump failure on all their policies. A basement that has fell victim to sump pump failure can run anywhere between $3,000-$10,000 for dry out services. It is very important to understand your insurance policy and if you have a sump pump in your home to make sure you have this coverage added to your policy. If you are unsure if you have coverage we recommend you call your insurance companies today to make sure you have all the correct coverages added to your policy before you are underwater. 

The Last Thing You Expect

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

After a bathroom supply line broke a caused water damage to three levels of this home.

Imagine having a full week of fun, driving multiple hours to get home to climb into bed in prep for the new work week ahead. However, when you open the door to your home you find the last thing you were expecting. 

While you were away on vacation at some point a water pipe had broke releasing gallons and gallons of water throughout your main living spaces. The brand new carpet you just had installed is not completely soaked and you are quickly realizing this job is much to big for you and a shop vac but not sure what to do? 

When it’s your home that’s underwater, mitigation can’t wait. If water damage strikes you give SERVPRO of Chambersburg a call 24/7 365 to have our trained technicians come out and address the water damages for your home. 

Freezing Pipes?

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

This basement flooded after a pipe broke.

It's that time of year where pipes begin to freeze and burst leaving a mess of your home and contents. Here are a few things to know if you unfortunately experience a frozen broken pipe.

• Locate your water shut off and turn off the main water supply, this will help prevent any more water from continuing to come out.
• Call your insurance agent and let them know of your water damage, they will be able to assist you with filing a claim and explain what you need to. 
• Call your plumber to come and fix the broke pipe.
• Quickly remove any contents out of the water that may not be able to be replaced.

Call us at 717-261-0310 to help you in any way with water damages to your home. 

How A Water Call Plays Out

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

This shows us drying the carpet in place at the home. We use a technique called floating which allows air flow to reach both sides of the carpet.

After you experience water damage one may wonder exactly what has to happen next. Typically once our homeowners contact their insurance company they will reach out to receive our services. We are run an on call service and have technicians ready to go at all times. After we arrive our highly trained technicians will thoroughly examine the affected areas to find exactly what is all damaged by the water. After a good evaluation we start up the truck mount to extract any water that we can. Afterwards comes the demo, some material we can in fact dry, while others always have to be removed. Majority of the time baseboard is detached, drywall is removed, and the floor is removed. However, if it is carpet as long as it can be re-stretched, we will dry the carpet in place at the home. After all the affected materials are removed, we will set up our drying air equipment that will remained in the home until the drying is complete. A standard water damage usually finishes up drying anywhere between 3-5 days.

When flooding affects your home our technicians may perform a technique called a "flood cut".

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

A flood cut from black water/sewage.

This specific technique requires cutting out sections of drywall about a foot above the flood line to inspect the wall behind it. While this process is not always necessary, there are a few circumstances that may require it after a flood occurs.

1. Black Water Floods

When outdoor flooding invades your home from overflowing streams or rivers, it may contain sewage, chemicals or dead animal carcasses. This water can be considered contaminated and is known as black water. A flood cut is usually necessary when this type of flooding occurs because your home’s drywall and any insulation behind it may be affected by the dirty water and may need replacing.

2. Wet Insulation

Flood technicians may perform a flood cut and tear out sections of drywall if they believe any insulation behind your home’s walls has water damage. Because insulation cannot be properly dried, a flood cut may be needed to remove any wet material. Once the interior wall is cleaned and dried, new insulation can be installed.

3. Mold Growth

After flooding, mold can begin to grow behind interior walls and spread quickly if it is not addressed. Flood technicians may perform a flood cut to check for mold and treat the area if any is found. Because mold does not need sunlight to grow, it can spread from interior walls to other areas and cause an unpleasant odor in your home. A flood cut can prevent this and keep mold at bay.

Do carpets need replaced in a water damage?

4/27/2020 (Permalink)

Here's an example of how we extract the water with professional equipment.

No. Just because carpets become wet during a water damage does not mean they are ruin. The SERVPRO Water Restoration Techs will evaluate several factors to determine the restorability then discusses with the homeowner and insurance adjuster to determine the approach.

The water source or category of the water of the levels of contaminates. Sewage from a back up has a high level of contamination vs an ice maker line. By using the information in the industry from the IICRC where the water damage tech receives its certification from will help them determine the category of water from 1, 2 or 3.

Next is the condition of the carpet to be able to be reused successfully. The backing of the carpet will be reviewed for any sign of delamination that can happen over time in contact with water  in high travel areas that will not allow the strength of the carpet to be reattached to the tack strip.

However, on the average water damage from a dishwasher, hot water heater or pipe break SERVPRO of Chambersburg can successfully dry the carpet to be relayed and then cleaned and disinfected.

The process will start with

• extraction to remove the most amount of water possible
• the carpet will be detached from the tack strip
• Removal of the wet carpet padding to be disposed of. Samples will be retained to have documentation of the quality of padding you had so the insurance can properly compensate for replacement.
• Placement of air movers and dehumidifier for 3-5 days.
• Apply antimicrobial when drying is completed.

Why you should not DIY your water damage

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

Hot Water Heater flooded A Basement

A lot of times we will hear "We had a small water damage before but cleaned up the water, so we didn’t feel we needed to call you." While this may be okay if the water damage was on tile flooring or concrete most of the time even after the standing water is removed, there are wet materials left behind. For example, a customer's dishwasher flooded their kitchen; they cleaned the water off the surface and went about their day, however they were not aware of the materials below being wet.  

WET LAMINATE PLANKS -If the floors are laminate planks, eventually the seams to the floor will start to separate and the water that is now trapped underneath the flooring will never dry. We at SERVPRO OF CHAMBERSBURG always remove wet laminate planks. The problem is the floor being engineered wood acts as a sponge and will eventually ruin the floor completely. Another issue is the water now trapped between the planks and the subfloor will never dry leading to mold and worst-case scenario rotted subfloors. It is always important to call SERVPRO to ensure your structure is dried out correctly.

WET DRYWALL- Drywall is a tricky one; it is hard to look at drywall and be able to tell if it's wet or not unless it's crumbling from the ceiling. That’s why SERVPRO of CHAMBERSBURG has all the moisture meters and equipment to check every kind of material in your home. Even if the water wasn’t deep enough to touch the drywall itself doesn’t mean the drywall isn’t wet. If the baseboard trim becomes wet, then there is a chance of wicking. Wicking is when the water travels up through the drywall causing the damage to move higher up the wall. Our team always removes baseboard even if the drywall behind it is not wet. If the baseboard is wet and is not removed it can cause damage to the drywall causing it to eventually become wet as well as the moisture trapped between the two materials may lead to mold.

WET INSULATION/CARPET PAD- Wet carpet pad and insulation are always removed; the two kinds of materials act as a sponge and will never completely dry which may lead to mold. If you have a leak in your ceiling that was fixed but the drywall and insulation remained, you may want to check out the attic space or behind the ceiling separating the levels depending on what is directly above. If the drywall and insulation became wet but were never properly removed there may be a chance of mold.

WET HARDWOOD FLOORS- Call SERVPRO of CHAMBERSBURG as soon as possible if your hardwood floors become wet, because WE CAN SAVE THEM. The key to successfully drying out hardwood floors is to start the drying process as soon as possible. SERVPRO OF CHAMBERSBURG has specialty drying mats and special techniques in drying that can successfully dry out hardwood floors. The longer the floors remain wet the less chance we can successfully dry the floors; what will happen is a cupping effect or swelling.

The key to saving as much as we can is the homeowner calling us as quickly as possible; our team works on a 24/7 on-call service and can arrive at a jobsite as quickly as possible to begin remediation. Whether it is 2 AM or 4PM call us at SERVPRO OF CHAMBERSBURG to ensure your home is dried out properly.

If I can’t see Water Damage Is, it there?

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

One of the devices used to complete a water damage inspection.

Many times, we hear customer mention that they’ve shop vacuumed up the water, or its not dripping anymore do I really need to do anything else? The answer is YES! Water damage can hide beneath the surface and cannot properly be judged by appearance or touch.

When SERVPRO of Chambersburg’s trained water technicians arrive on site they are not only equipment with a vast amount of knowledge, they have several industry moisture meters to properly assess the situation. It’s better to call sooner than later as if they materials do become dry without proper drying it would have taken longer then recommended.  During that time areas you cannot see can grow mold. Mold starts for form as little as 48-72 from the water intrusion.

The water damage bill that you’ve attempted to avoid has doubled in cost into a mold remediation and now your family’s health may be impacted. Failure to remediate the water damage by delaying in contacting a professional like SERVPRO could impact your insurance claim coverage due to negligence.

Don’t try to DIY your water damage, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Chambersburg 717-261-0310

SERVPRO of Chambersburg are the Drying Experts!

3/6/2020 (Permalink)

When you see your basement like this, Call the team at SERVPRO of Chambersburg.

When a water damage invades your property, turn off the water and call SERVPRO of Chambersburg for professional water damage restoration.

The SERVPRO® System Helps Save Money!

• Emergency Mitigation Services help minimize additional property damages.
• SERVPRO® of Chambersburg professionals use specialized test equipment to determine hidden water.
• Restoration versus replacement of contents saves heirlooms and money too.
• By using advanced drying techniques, SERVPRO® of Chambersburg Professionals monitor and ensure your property is properly dried.
• We understand your insurance guidelines and expectations.

Drying is a science, with lots of training. Don’t DIY with water damage cleanup.

Psychrometry is the study of the air and its properties. The properties of temperature, humidity, vapor pressure and dew point are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure, enabling a SERVPRO® of Chambersburg Professional to create the proper atmosphere for more efficient drying.

Water can damage materials in two ways: first, by absorption through direct contact with water; and second, absorption of moisture from the air. Measuring the moisture content of the air is critical to the drying process. Restoration professionals must establish an environment favorable for drying.

The restoration professional must also understand how to manipulate temperature and humidity levels to produce optimum drying conditions, without causing secondary damages through improper drying processes.

Quick Services & Clear Communication.

ONE HOUR:

Within one hour from notice of a loss, a SERVPRO® of Chambersburg Professional will contact you to arrange for service. They will collect important information of how many rooms have been affected, what caused the water damage, and who your insurance company is. You’ll know help is on the way!

FOUR HOURS:

Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO® of Chambersburg Professional will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

DETAILED EXPLANATION:

A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO® Franchise Professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

EIGHT HOURS:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person, normally your adjuster or property manager.

How To Maintain Your Sump Pump

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

If your home has a wet basement, you’re not alone. The American Society of Home Inspectors estimates that more than 60 percent of homes have issues with water in the basement.

A sump pump can be an effective option for preventing water damage. Sump pumps are low-maintenance devices, but you can help keep your unit operational by inspecting it regularly. Steps in a regular maintenance program can include:

• Checking the discharge line to make sure it is not stopped up or frozen. If necessary, unclog the air vent hole in the line.

• Checking the inlet screen to ensure that it’s not clogged with residue and debris. Do these three or four times per year.

• Making sure the float component is unobstructed and can move smoothly.

• Scanning the pit and removing any visible debris, mud, or stones.

• Testing the pump by slowly pouring a bucket of water into the pit. The float should rise with the water level, triggering the unit to start pumping. If pumping doesn’t begin, check to see that the unit is plugged in. Your float switch or check valve might also be at fault.

• Going outside to see that water is discharging and flowing where it’s supposed to go – well away from your home.

Once a year, disconnect the pump from the power source and remove the unit. Flush it thoroughly with water to remove debris. While you have the pump out, also clean debris from the sump pit.  Reinstall the pump and reconnect the power source.  Test the unit by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and making sure the pump starts. If your unit has backup battery power, replace the battery every two to three years, or as directed by the manufacturer. Always refer to your pump’s instruction manual for specific information about maintenance and operation. 

In addition to maintenance your pump ensure that you have the property coverage for a failure. It's not always a standard item to be included in your policy and some coverage will have a $5,000 or $10,000 limit. 

If your sump pump does fails Call (717)-261-0310 and a team from SERVPRO of Chambersburg will come out and dry your basement and all other areas that are wet.  

Your Business Flooded. What Now?

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

An example of one of the machines you may see on a large water job.

If your business has been hit by a flood, it’s important to act quickly to minimize damage and reduce disaster recovery costs. First things first: call your insurance provider, and then attend to the 3 Be’s.

Be Safe

Don’t enter your building until you know it’s safe.

• Check for electrical hazards; turn off power if possible
• Check for structural damage
• Wear protective gear: boots, gloves and respirators
• Check for biohazards that may contaminate the flood water, such as lead paint and asbestos

Be Quick

• Mold starts growing in as little as 48 hours, so begin water removal ASAP. Open windows and use air movers to remove moisture from the air
• Once standing water is removed, check for concealed pockets of water: under carpets and padding, between layers of building materials, behind trim and walls, under cabinets and furniture, and in mechanical spaces
• Address contaminants. If the flood water is laden with bacteria or chemicals, you’ll need to bring in an expert on biohazards, like SERVPRO of Chambersburg, to evaluate, treat and inspect your building and property

When you have suffered a flood or other water disaster at your home or business, call SERVPRO of Chambersburg 717-261-0310

Be Thorough

• To help with your insurance claims, document everything with photos or video—structural damage, water-damaged property and discarded items—both before and after cleanup. (SERVPRO of Chambersburg will document your entire job and work with your insurer for the smoothest, fastest claim process.)
• Clean all salvageable material and apply disinfectants on contaminated items.
• Confirm that all building material is 100% dry before beginning reconstruction

Or ... Call SERVPRO

Recovering from a commercial flood is stressful, time-consuming and can be disastrous when you factor in your business’s downtime. But you can be sure that all the details are handled quickly and professionally when you call SERVPRO of Chambersburg after a commercial water disaster.

See before and after water damage photos: https://www.SERVPROchambersburg.com/before-after-photos/water-damage-restoration

Testimonial: https://www.SERVPROchambersburg.com/testimonials/water-damage-restoration

Replace your water heater before it's to late!

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

Hot water heater

One pipe leak can result in major water damage throughout many rooms in a home. When a hot water heater leaks in the attic it can cause damage in several rooms below. Typically, in these situations, you don't know there is a problem until it's too late!

SERVPRO of Chambersburg is equipped to respond to these types of water damages the same day the job is called in. We will extract the water, remove damaged structure, and set up drying equipment. We will monitor the job daily until all structure is dry!

It is recommended that you check your hot water heater on a regular basis, especially if it's in your attic. When your hot water heater is in your attic it is even more important to keep a maintenance schedule and to stick to that schedule. If your hot water heater is slowly leaking, it won't take much time for the pan to begin to overflow from a 50-gallon water tank. The bottom of the water tank can then rust. Also, the leak can cause moisture in the air that can then cause mold!

Things we don't see often, or ever for that matter are easy to forget! If you are a victim of a hot water heater water damage, call us at SERVPRO of Chambersburg  today! 717-261-0310

Preventing Water Damage While On Vacation

5/2/2019 (Permalink)

One of the highest insurance claims by homeowners is water damage, according to a study done by the Insurance Institute. In fact, leaky pipes and in often cases appliances cause millions of dollars of damage in freezing weather and storms annually. While you’re on vacation, it’s no surprise that a leaky pipe can burst and cause hundreds of dollars of repairs.

Here are 7 Steps to follow before you go on vacation.

Step 1. Check for Leaks Before Going on Vacation

Before embarking on your trip, check pipes under your sinks and the water heater for any rust, cracks, or damage. You should also check the seals around your windows to make sure there are no cracks that might cause water damage. Additionally, check the exterior of your house and see what condition your roof shingles are in. If any show damage, getting them replaced before leaving for vacation is a good idea.

Step 2. Inspect Your Major Appliances

It’s important that you inspect the hoses that connect to important appliances in your home, such as dishwashers, washer/dryers, and refrigerator. If there is any damage, you should get the hose replaced before you leave to prevent extensive water damage.

Step 3. Clear Out Your Gutters

Make sure to get any debris out of your rain gutters before leaving for vacation. This way, you won’t have any blockages that can cause damage while you’re away.

Step 4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

Make sure it is in good condition and clear any debris from clogging the pit. You should also run a few tests, listening to the sounds it makes and making sure that the water in the pump is actually going outside. You should also install a battery-powered backup in case there is a power outage while you’re away.

Step 5. Insulate Exposed Pipes

If you are planning on being away from your home during the winter, it can be a good idea to insulate any exposed pipes. This will prevent them from freezing while you are away.

Step 6. Get Someone to Check on Your Home

Call a friend or hire a professional house sitter to check on your home every week while you are gone. Instruct them to ensure that the heat is always on if your vacation is during the winter. Also, show them where the water main is in case of an emergency.

Step 7. Turn Off the Water

Lastly, if you cannot find someone to check on your home, you should turn off the water main. You will also want to drain the pipes completely so that they do not freeze or burst during the colder months. To do this, run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water. You should also open the cabinets under your sink to let the warm air surround the pipes.

If you do experience water damage while you are away from your home, contact SERVPRO of Chambersburgas soon as possible. 717-261-0310

Secondary Water Damage: What Is it and Why Is it Treated so Seriously?

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Here to help

When your building is affected by water damage, you should always retain the help of an experienced local restoration team. This is especially the case if dealing with secondary damage or, in the worst-case scenario, tertiary water damage. 

Some factors that play into a water  categorization include the following: 

• How long the water has been allowed to sit
• Where the water originated
• What contaminants might be in the water
• Whether or not initial damage was remediated in a proper manner
• Whether or not black mold is present

What Is Secondary Water Damage?

This type of water damage is damage that was not reacted to in a swift and effective manner. It may also be damage that arises from water of unknown origins. This type of water damage is categorized as such mainly because the extent of contamination and therefore potential hazardousness is unknown. Additionally, this type of damage goes beyond wet walls and wet carpet. It typically affects the structure of the building as well, and may include the following types of issues: 

• Rotted drywall
• Buckling hardwood floors
• Peeling vinyl
• Black mold or mold spores

Each of these issues is the result of both the water itself and high humidity. 

What Causes Secondary Water Damage?

The cause of this type of water damage is easy enough to pinpoint: poor reaction time. Any type of water damage, no matter how seemingly insignificant, needs to be dealt with immediately. Failure to react in a timely or effective fashion can result in the aforementioned issues, not to mention costly structural issues or liability concerns. 

You can prevent secondary issues that arise from water perils, such as black mold by taking action as soon as you notice a water issue. Your Chambersburg water remediation team is ready and willing to help. All you have to do is place the call. 

Landlord Versus Tenant Flood Responsibilities

4/23/2019 (Permalink)

Drying a home after a water damage in Fayetteville PA

Flooding  can be stressful and confusing. Once you and your family are safe, it is time to think about repairing and restoring your home or business. Homeowners, business owners and renters alike now have to navigate the waters of insurance coverage. For homeowners, the process is likely clear. For landlords and tenants, however, it may be a bit more complicated. What does commercial property insurance cover? What does renter’s insurance cover?

Landlord Responsibilities

The first step as a landlord is to know your insurance coverage. Flood insurance is not typically part of general property insurance. Talk to your agent about your specific policy. Landlords are responsible for the following in the case of a flood:

• Whether insurance covers flooding or not, you as the property owner are still responsible for returning the dwelling to a safe, livable situation for your tenants. This must be done in a reasonably timely manner, so contact a water restoration specialist as soon as possible to avoid secondary damage from occurring. 
• Damages to the building are covered by the landlord, including all appliances that were not purchased and installed by the tenants. Flooring, drywall, electrical and other structures are under the property owner’s purview as well. 

Tenant Responsibilities

The landlord is not responsible for all damage, so as the tenant it is important to obtain renter’s insurance and know what is covered. As with landlords, flood coverage is not typically included in basic insurance, so talk to your agent about the details. Tenants should know the following information:

• As a renter, your personal belongings are covered under your insurance. 
• Relocation, if the apartment or dwelling is unlivable, is usually covered by your insurance and rent does not need to be paid during that time. You may choose to discontinue the lease if the damage is severe. 

Whether you are the landlord or tenant, obtain the appropriate insurance coverage. Understand what your property or renter’s insurance covers, and what your responsibilities are in the case of a flood in Chambersburg, PA. 

I got to call SERVPRO of Chambersburg for my water damage

3/20/2019 (Permalink)

A flooded basement from a storm in Franklin County PA

You went downstairs to switch over your laundry and realize your basement is flooded and got to call SERVPRO of Chambersburg, what are they going to ask? 

1. Callers Name/Customer Name - Who will be responsible for decision and billing. 
2. Property Address 
3. Customer Phone Number 
4. Insurance Company, Claim Number, Deductible amount, insurance adjuster(if assigned yet) - Some of these items may not be known right away but are very important to ensure the insurance is able to be communicated with during the process. 
5. What, where, when - What broke, a pipe, toilet overfilled, storm related? What areas of the home is damaged, how big of an area, what kind of flooring? When did it happen?
6. Has the source been corrected or stopped? Before services can be effective by SERVPRO you may need to have a plumber correct or stop the leak.

During business hours 8-5 Monday to Friday you'll speak to a local representative to help guide you threw the next steps. After 5pm your call is routed to a call center who will take down your information to alert the on-call team a customer is in need of emergency services. 

Now that we got the question completed, were scheduling services to begin and load up the vans.  

DOCUMENT RESTORATION SERVICES

3/11/2019 (Permalink)

What if you document storage room got wet?

During a insurance claim you may find some very important documents that you need restored.SERVPRO of Chambersburg can provide those services to you for 1 box to 100+ boxes. Medical facility, tax documents, family keepsakes can be very important and need to be handled with special care. 

• Drying - Process in which an item containing moisture is frozen and dried using vacuums and pressures to achieve sublimation.
• Cleaning - We offer onsite cleaning. This is cleaning each document front and back to remove debris and any surface particulate. 
• Sterilization - Gamma Irridation is a process that is used for disinfecting and decontaminating documents or other consumer goods. 
• Deodorization - Once paper has been wet, an odor can begin to form. Letting us deodorize your documents will reduce the odor and sometimes almost completely eliminate it. 
• Destruction - We offer certified destruction onsite.
• Digitization - Digitizing documents makes them easier to access as well as easier to store. We use state-of-the-art equipment to turn your paper copy into a digital file

Faster to your Waynesboro Water Damage Event

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Chambersburg provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Waynesboro PA

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Chambersburg provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Chambersburg arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 717-261-0310

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

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

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

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

About SERVPRO of Chambersburg

SERVPRO of Chambersburg specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Detecting Water Damage in Your Old House

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Old Home and Water Damage?

There is no doubt that many old houses are plagued by problems. One of the biggest issues, whether the house is new or old, is the threat of water damage. It can inflict severe punishment on a home, and unfortunately it doesn't take long -- one serious storm could be enough to result in damage that requires many hours of labor and thousands of dollars to repair.

Spotting water damage

Here is a list of signs that you may have damage, from the clear to the more subtle, sneaky ones:

Water stains. That telltale stain on the ceiling or wall can be an obvious sign. If it suddenly pops up, it's time to get a professional into your house to check it out and find out where the water came from. If you are looking into purchasing an old house and you see water stains, be wary. Ask for proof that the source of the damage has been repaired.

Buckling floors and walls. This is another very clear sign, and it is often the mark of an extensive problem. The drywall or wood absorbs water, which makes it swell. The result is a buckling that you can see or feel when you walk over the area. This can happen over time, such as through a small shower leak, or it can happen all at once, especially after a major storm.

Crumbling areas. Pay attention to the area around the windows. Do you see crumbling wood? The same holds true for baseboards or molding. Any sort of crumbling could indicate the wood is falling apart because of water infiltration.

Trust your nose. The damage might be able to hide from your sight, but you can often find it with your nose. If you walk into a room and are assaulted with the scent of mold or mildew, there could be moisture damage lurking behind the walls. Many old houses have an old, musty smell -- but in rooms where water has caused damage, that smell is often much more pronounced.

Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 717-261-0310

SERVPRO Chambersburg specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke, or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility, to regular IICRC-industry certification, you can rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Water Damage – What does homeowners insurance typically cover?

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Have you reviewed your policy lately?

Water damage claims are quite common in the insurance world. However, not all types of water damage are covered under every Massachusetts homeowner’s insurance policy. Below, we have listed some general coverage under a typical homeowner’s insurance policy.

 Burst Pipes and Leaks – Typically Covered

Water damage from pipes is usually covered. This is why homes that have updated plumbing systems will typically have lower insurance premiums. However, if you didn’t take precautions to prevent the problem your claim may be denied. An example of this would be a pipe freezes and bursts because you left your home unheated.

 Water Damage From Appliances – Typically Covered

Sudden leaking from an appliance that is not due to improper upkeep is typically covered under your homeowners insurance.

 Roof Leaks – Typically Covered

When water leaks through your roof the damage to your home is usually covered as well as damage to your belongings. The roof repairs will be covered if an external factor like hail or a fallen tree caused the roof leak. If it is a maintenance issue that led to the leak you will likely have to cover the roof repairs yourself.

 Flood Damage – Not Covered

Floods are rare, but when they do occur they can cause significant damage and even destroy a home entirely in a matter of minutes. Flood insurance is not typically a part of regular home insurance policy. If you live in a floodplain or want the additional coverage you will have to get a flood insurance policy in addition to your homeowners insurance.

 Backed Up Drain or Sewer Line – Not Covered

Damage from a backed up sewer line or drain, is not covered on standard home insurance policies. However, you can add this coverage on with an endorsement. It will be an additional cost, but it provides additional coverage.

 Ground Water Seepage – Not Covered

When water floods into a basement or causes foundation problems because of seepage from ground water this is considered a maintenance issue not an accident. Therefore, most insurance companies don’t include seepage in their policies.

 Mold – Possibly Covered

Mold is often a result of water damage, and it can begin to develop within a few days. If mold is caused by a type of water damage that is covered by your insurance policy, then mold removal may be covered as well. Like sewer line and backed up drains, you can also get additional coverage specifically for mold remediation added on to your policy so you’re covered anytime it occurs.

 Again, each person’s insurance policy is different. It’s important that you carefully review your policy to understand what water damage is covered.  For professional water damage cleanup, contact SERVPRO of Chambersburg today at 717-261-0310

Hidden Water Damage that Began Growing Mold

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

Don't let your home become infested with mold, act now!

How often do you move your dishwasher out to inspect behind it for possible water damage? Not to often, right. This photo illustrates what could be larking behind your appliances that had a small leak for a period of time. For most cases when a dishwasher begins to have a leak it will be a slow drip beneath or behind the unit causing the floor to become saturate, rotting or mold to develop. 

What to do when you discover a leak in your dishwasher that caused possible water damage? 

• Turn off the source of the water
• Turn off the power to the dishwasher
• Contact a plumber 
• Contact your insurance office to assess information about filing a claim or coverage. 
• Contact SERVPRO of Chambersburg 717-261-0310

Here's Why Professional Water Removal Is More Effective Than DIY Methods

10/24/2016 (Permalink)

Save Money and Aggravation, Call SERVPRO for Water Damage Problems

After a water emergency that floods a home or business, the last thing that most people want to deal with is a bill for cleaning up the damage. This is what leads many homeowners to attempt water extraction on their own instead of calling a professional.
 
If you're in need of water removal in Chambersburg you may be tempted to save money by trying to get rid of the excess water on your own. However, going this route typically has more consequences than benefits and will result in greater losses of time, money, and your possessions in the long run. Here's why calling SERVPRO for professional water removal is a smart move.
 
Professional water extraction works extremely well.
While some homeowners resort to opening windows and doors, turning on ceiling fans, and blotting towels around the house, SERVPRO has powerful equipment that ensures efficient and thorough water removal. We're also often able to restore documents, books, furnishings, and electronic devices affected by water damage, plus we'll get your home's humidity back to an appropriate level.
 
Many water emergencies are hazardous.
If your house has been flooded with gray or black water, such as that from a natural disaster, backed up sewer line, or a leaky toilet, expert attention to the problem is best. These types of water are risky for untrained persons to handle because it involves disease causing waste and debris. This is the type of material that can't simply be put out with the week's garbage and needs proper and safe disposal.  We're knowledgeable about how to get rid of contaminated waste during water extraction, so there are no lingering health risks to your family or pets.
 
It's important to consider mold and mildew.
One reason that so many homeowners who attempt DIY water removal eventually end up calling a pro is unseen damage caused by mold and mildew. While your flooring and possessions may look and feel dry, without proper water extraction and controlling humidity mold and mildew will thrive, cause off odors, and ruin your home's structure along with your possessions and furniture. SERVPRO technicians are skilled at protecting against the growth of mold and mildew and have effective strategies to combat it. 
 
At SERVPRO of Chambersburg, we know how important it is to get your home back in order as quickly as possible. We'll help you mitigate the costs of any water emergency by restoring your possessions and preventing future damage to your home. For more information about our water removal services or to receive a quote, call us 24/7 at (717)-261-0310

Replace or Restore how can you save costs?

9/29/2016 (Permalink)

A chambersburg property during the drying process.

Water is a vital part of life, when controlled properly it can be helpful and sustain us in our everyday lives. When out of control it can make our lives miserable, and can even do us harm.

If you have dealt with water damage before you know that water restoration services are not cheap. You also know how traumatic they can be, disrupting our lives and causing havoc in our home or business. However, if we look closely, the amount of money that you’ll be spending on water repair damage is significantly lower as compared to the cost of repairing structural damage and replacing personal belongings. Having SERVPRO of Chambersburg guide you through the trauma efficiently by restoration rather than replacement, can give you piece of mind and save costs.

When water enters our home, it can come with germs and bacteria, it can even promote fungal growth if given enough time and conditions. Oftentimes, mold spores inhabit our home long after the water has disappeared from view.  If you act quickly you can impact the amount of damage to your property and your personal belongings.

While there is no standard cost for water repair damage, the cost is based on several factors. This includes the type of water, the extent of damage and the size of the affected area.

Category 1 (Clean water): Water comes from a faucet, malfunctioning appliance connected to a water line or a supply pipe. This is the least expensive. However if left unmitigated fungal growth can occur in 48 -72 hours from the initial incident.  When fungal growth begins this can change the category and add to costs as procedures to protect workers are also increased.

Category 2 (Grey water): Grey water contains biological and chemical pollutants that can cause illness. Common sources are water that is discharged from washing machine, dishwasher or toilet.

Category 3 (Black water): This is the most detrimental of the group and is also the most expensive. Water contains harmful bacteria that may cause severe discomfort or sickness. Common sources are overflowing rivers and streams, sewage and standing water. Category tw water that is left stagnant for more than 48 hours falls under this category.

Restoring your home after water damage could be a frustrating experience. Water or excess moisture could harm your home and its content. The faster you take action, the less damage you’ll have in your home. Here are some tips you can use until we get to your home: http://www.SERVPROchambersburg.com/water-damage-tips  

From leaky roofs, basement leaks or frozen pipe bursts, the people at SERVPRO of West Forsyth are here to help make it “like it never even happened.”  In these situations, time is critical. You don’t want your home to be destroyed by water, call us 24/7 directly at 717-261-0310. We commit to pick up your call or call back in an hour or less, be onsite in four hours or less. SERVPRO of Chambersburg services Chambersburg ,Greencastle ,Waynesboro Mercersburg ,St. Thomas ,Fayetteville ,Marion ,Blue Ridge Summit ,Mont Alto ,Rouzerville

Timing is important with water damage

9/29/2016 (Permalink)

Water Damage, SERVPRO of Chambersburg can help.

Summer time in Chambersburg humidity and summer storms. When water stands and causes damage it can continue to cause damage and cost even more money to repair the secondary damage. So, the old adage is never truer than when dealing with a water-damaged home or business. Every minute matters, because every minute the property is wet could turn primary damage into secondary- or even permanent damage.  That's why emergency response matters.  

Secondary water damage occurs when the moisture from the primary event (flood, leak, etc.) begins to evaporate on its own into the air.  Over time the air will no longer be able to hold the moisture from the evaporation.  The moisture will have to go somewhere and a very basic principle behind psychometrics is that wet goes to dry.  The moisture may go into your drywall, cabinetry, sheetrock, hardwood floors, vinyl floors, etc.  Once the moisture is allowed to sit, mold can then begin to grow.  This is why emergency action is so incredibly important.

Storms, floods, burst pipes, and leaks simply don't abide by the 9-to-5 workday.  So why should your restoration provider?  SERVPRO of Chambersburg Professionals are on-call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, with the state-of-the-art equipment and proven methods and training to get the job done right as quickly as possible.

If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Chambersburg Professionals at (717) 261-0310 seven days a week 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

During a Water Damage FAQ

9/1/2016 (Permalink)

Water Damage in a basement

Arrival of Technicians (Initial visit):

1. Upon the technician's arrival they will need a tour of the area that have water damage.
2. They will take moisture readings to determine what materials are affected. (i.e. carpet, carpet pad, drywall, baseboard, etc...)
3. Once the technicians locate the wet materials they will determine whether the materials can be dried. Some materials are made in a way that they can not be dried due to their composition (i.e. insulation, ceiling tiles, carpet pad, etc...). Some materials dry very well in the correct conditions (i.e. carpet, subfloor, true hardwood flooring, etc...).
4. The lead technician will explain to the property owner what needs removed vs. dried before work begins and will notify you if any changes come about.

Monitoring Visit:

1. The drying time of most water jobs is 3-5 days.
2. The techs will need access to the property to check the status of drying and to complete their on-going documentation.
3. They will make the visit with the customer for the best time inside of the standard working hours (8am-4pm : this will include monitoring on weekends and holidays as well).
4. Depending on the size of job will determine how long their visit will be each day, most water loss jobs take a 30-60-minute visit when it’s in progress.
5. We can provide a lock box to store your house key so the techs can access the home without the customer having to leave work. Or another family/friend may grant SERVRO access.
6. During the drying process it is not uncommon to experience an odor in the first few days of drying. The smell is due to the evaporation process. Therefore anything the water has come in contact with may cause an odor which is released into the air during drying (i.e. pet smells).

Final Visit:

• During the final visit the technicians will be removing the drying equipment. This usually takes approximately 60-120 minutes. The will need the homeowner to be home for this visit to complete the final paperwork for the insurance companies file.

Coverages/Cost:

1. SERVPRO professionals are not permitted to comment regarding any insurance coverage. Only the insurance professional (i.e. adjuster) will have that information.
2. The deductible is the amount a home insurance policyholder must pay out of pocket for a covered claim. The insurance adjuster will explain where/when this amount is to be paid.
3. Payment for services performed is due typically within 15 days after claim is submitted to insurance company.
4. SERVPRO of Chambersburg will send the insurance company an estimate/bill for the services provide. From then it’s common for the insurance company to release the payment to the customer home address. Once the homeowner receives the amount from the insurance company then it is time to pay SERVPRO for the services. Payment can be made by check or credit card.

Common Questions:

1. How long will the drying take? Typical 3-5 days. The onsite technician can provide daily updates as to the progress.
2. Is the equipment going to run all day? Yes, the equipment should only be ever move or turned off. If an emergency happens and the equipment is off it needs to be brought to the SERVPRO professionals attention asap.
3. Windows/Doors Open or Closed? Ask your SERVPRO professional. However, it is best to prevent any outside air entering the home. Interior doors should be left the way the technicians left them. They may be trying to concentrate drying in one room or dry two room with one dehumidifier that needs access to both air spaces.
4. Temperature Ideal for Drying? 70-90 Degrees. We understand that the temperature at times may be uncomfortable however for drying to be performed correctly it must stay in this range.
5. How to get a copy of the documents you signed with SERVPRO? Provide your email address to the technicians and it will automatically send the documents over the next 24-hour period. You may also request tech to bring a print copy on their next visit.

• Wet Hardwood Floors:  Real hardwood floors can be dried in the right conditions. The length that the water was in contact with the material will make in impact to the restorability. We utilize specialize drying systems that forces air into the floor. Due to the density of the hardwood floors it may take 3-6 weeks after the drying equipment is removed before they return to their natural shape. Some floors will need to be sanded and refinished. You &  your insurance adjuster will be advised of the recommendation for refinishing or replacement, the decision is the between you and the insurance.

1. Can my carpet be restored or will they have to be replaced? The technician will attempt to salvage uncontaminated water damage carpet. There are a few items the technicians  will look for that would classify the carpet as unsalvageable. If any of the items below are found, SERVPRO will notify the insurance company/adjuster to determine the next plan of action.
1. Delamination (when the backing separates from the carpet)
2. Permanent Stains caused by water damage
3. Sewage contaminated carpet

• Electric Bill? There is a lot of pieces of equipment in your home to dry out the property and they do need electricity. How much will it affect your bill? Each piece of equipment will affect your bill about $1 per day.

1. Example 15 pieces of equipment for 3 days.= $45

• Who’s responsibility for paying for these services? Ultimately the customer/property owner are responsible for the payment. The property owner will need to sign our standard forms that will authorize SERVPRO to perform the dryout, and acknowledgement of the payment terms.

• If this is an insurance claim, SERVPRO will submit the billing to the insurance company & the customer.(typically within 10 business days from the date it was completed the drying)

• After the insurance companies review the file, they commonly issue the check to pay for the services to your home. You will need to forward SERVPRO the funds for the amount of the bill/invoice that you received after the drying was completed.

1. When you have questions it’s best to call to the SERVPRO office and they can provide detailed instructions for you.
2. If the claim is not coverage, or you do not submit a claim, you will be expected to pay for the services at the time of the services in full.

How to Prevent Kitchen Water Damage

5/23/2016 (Permalink)

Dishwasher causes water damage.

The kitchen is often an ignored part of the house when it comes to preventing water damage. Sometimes the smells and moisture and lack of  regular attention can mask some of the signs that something isn’t right. Here are some of the top tips on how you can prevent water damage in your kitchen and save yourself money.

What Causes Kitchen Water Damage?

When it comes to kitchen water damage, you have three main sources, which are the refrigerator, the sink and countertop, and the dishwasher. There are actually warning signs that these all could cause water damage, however, so we wanted to make sure you know exactly what they are.

Water Damage: Refrigerators

The odds are that when you clean your kitchen or are doing maintenance, you normally don’t check behind your refrigerator. But if you do inspect that area routinely, you will reduce the chances of water damage problems down the road. If you do find water behind your refrigerator, it is a definite sign that something is wrong. Sometimes you may even find mold growth, which means you need to work with a reputable repair service immediately. If you have an icemaker, make sure that the hose is sealed and still attached to your water supply.

Water Damage: Sinks and Countertops

You use a lot of water on and around your sink and countertops, and sometimes that water can get trapped and cause damage. Check regularly underneath your sink to make sure that you don’t have any leaks. If you have a drip under the sink, that means you may have drain problems. Slow draining pipes may indicate that you have a blocked drain, and a dripping faucet also needs to be repaired promptly. For the countertops, see if you notice cracks or grout that is missing. If you have those issues, you need to fix that to prevent water from pervading. Stained pipes and walls around pipes also indicate an internal leak that needs to be fixed to prevent additional water damage.

Water Damage: Dishwashers

If your dishwasher isn’t quite emptying correctly after you use it, the main filter may be blocked. You have to have it released promptly in order to prevent water damage. Take the time to look at the base of your dishwasher for leaks on a regular basis. If you do see a leak, there could be an unsealed joint or a hose that is damaged. At this point, you will want to check the connection and get it repaired if there is an issue as quick as possible. You should also consider installing steel-braided hoses on appliances like dishwashers, but make sure that you talk with a trusted plumbing source about the best options for your appliances.

Don’t let water damage sneak into your home

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

Water damage

By the time water damage is noticed, it is usually too late and the damage has already been done. We may not have a scent or special power to always know where that one hidden leak or spoiled foundation is, but there are some areas that are important to be aware of. According to the writer of coolray.com, there are 5 different areas of your Nashville home to keep a regular inspection on. Coolray explains why each area is an important part of the home to pay attention to throughout the year. Although, some incidents cannot be prevented, being able to recognize the damage ahead of time can save a lot of money, resources and further damage done to your belongings.

• Appliances

Some appliances such as water heaters, washing machines and refrigerators have a tendency to leak over time. These leaks can start off small, but if not taken care of, can turn into a big mess. 

• Basements

Basements collect moisture from drips through the foundation that tend to cover the walls. As the moisture evaporates, it creates more humidity, which in turn can cause condensation throughout the cold basement.

• Plumbing

Even the smallest of leaks inside a wall can become a bigger issue over time. Make sure to check your plumbing periodically to make sure that there aren’t any loose attachments that could cause a leak down the road.

• Pipes

A backed up pipe can lead to much more than just that pipe being clogged. As the pipe backs up, it can cause them to back up into other drains causing a massage leak or flood under floor boards or even behind walls. If there are signs of a clogged pipe, make sure to have it looked at immediately to stop further damage.

• Air conditioner

Many people have seen the moisture that collects on air conditioners on a hot, sunny day. This moisture gets worse throughout the life of the air conditioner due to regular maintenance going unseen. Make sure to watch regularly for any signs of leaking or damage to the unit.  

Source - http://www.coolray.com/blog/article/hidden_causes_of_water_damage/ 

Why a professional extractor unit is important vs your homeowner shop vac?

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

Water extractor unit

Many times SERVPRO of Chambersburg respond to water damage after a customer has been shop vacuuming the water up, however they are unaware that the carpets most likely will still need additional extraction to get as much water as possible to ensure proper drying. 

SERVPRO of Chambersburg is equipment with an industry extractor unit that is designed for water damage and carpet cleaning. This particular model will hold up to 80 gallons before it needs empty. How much is 80 gallons in a water damage? Most jobs we do not fill up the unit unless there is several inches of standing water.

It removed the water from the home using a high suction process that removes much more water than any shop vacuum. It can be used with a wand method, weighted stationary extractor or a rover (weighted portable extractor). When the water is removed from the home its stored in the take and the water will then be disposed in the proper fashion for the situation. 

SERVPRO of Chambersburg Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

This home had 4' of water after heavy rains.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today - 717-261-0310

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Chambersburg and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the tust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – SERVPRO of Chambersburg 717-261-0310

Faster to your Water Damage Event

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Chambersburg arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – Chambersburg

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

·         Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.

·         Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.

·         Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.

·         Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

·         Drywall begins to swell and break down.

·         Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.

·         Furniture begins to swell and crack.

·         Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.

·         A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

·         Mold and mildew may grow and spread.

·         Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.

·         Metal begins to rust and corrode.

·         Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.

·         Paint begins to blister.

·         Wood flooring swells and warps.

·         Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

·         Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.

·         Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Chambersburg

SERVPRO of Chambersburg specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Chambersburg 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

4/6/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Chambersburg provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Chambersburg and surround areas.

SERVPRO of Chambersburg 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 – Chambersburg

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 [[Franchise Name]] has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

·         Your name and contact information

·         Your insurance information (if applicable)

·         The street address of the water-damaged home or business

·         When did the flooding or water damage occur?

·         What caused the water damage (if known)?

·         Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Chambersburg

SERVPRO of Chambersburg specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

11/25/2015 (Permalink)

Reprinted from www.redcross.org

Being prepared and informed may help you to avoid the messy and often expensive issue of frozen pipes. The American Red Cross provides information and suggestions around how to prevent water pipes in the home from freezing, and how to thaw them if they do freeze.

Why Pipe Freezing is a Problem

State-of-the-art monitoring equipment, and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or office.

11/25/2015 (Permalink)

state-of-the-art drying equipment

Did you know, there is actually a science behind the process of drying?  The knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its pre-loss condition.  While you’re initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, your local SERVPRO of Chambersburg Professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary water damages.  If your business suffers water damage, your local SERVPRO of Chambersburg Professional will: 

What exactly does "speed up Mother Nature" mean? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium.  When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material- but only if the air is, indeed, drier.  The only problem is, nature takes too long and secondary damage may occur while the building is drying out. 

Your local SERVPRO of Chambersburg Professionals have been trained to use top-of-the-line equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more.  We also utilize state-of-the-art monitoring equipment, and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or office. 

SERVPRO of Chambersburg Professionals specialize in water damage restoration.  If your home or office experiences water damage, call us immediately.

Hardwood floors when to replace after a water damage

11/6/2015 (Permalink)

Hardwood floors that need replace due to length of time water was in contact with them.

This Chambersburg home was not occupied daily and when the caregivers checked on the home there was extensive damage to the hardwood floor. As the photo illustrate the height of the change of flooring these floors had to be removed and replaced.

With the right condition, speedy response, and specialized equipment hardwood are typical saved during a water damage. After the hardwood floors dry they should natural settle within 6-8 weeks and then may need refinishing and sanding. Still it is a less invasive process than replacing. 

Freezing Pipes

1/22/2015 (Permalink)

Water

SERVPRO of Chambersburg received calls starting January 8th, 2015 for freezing pipes causing water damage to homes and business in the Chambersburg and surrounding.  When water damage is caused due to a frozen pipe typical there is extensive damage. The number one cause of pipes to freeze is due to a lack of sufficient heat.

If you find yourself in the middle of a "freeze" crisis, like broken pipes, here are some water damage tips that you can do to minimize the damage till SERVPRO arrives. Call us at SERVPRO of Chambersburg 717-261-0310.... Responding to emergencies 24/7!

Are you pipes going to freeze?

11/21/2014 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Chambersburg experienced a high volume of calls from January-February of 2013 as a result of frozen pipes. When a pipe busts due to being frozen it normally results in a large amount of damage affecting several rooms or attaching homes.

Some homeowners had heat, but it just wasn't enough to prevent the damages. Be sure you protect your pipes this year before it’s too late.

If you experience damages to your home or business in the Chambersburg, Waynesboro, Greencastle and surrounding areas please call SERVPRO of Chambersburg at 717-261-0310 to assist with the cleanup to get your home or business back up and running.

Cold Tempatures Cause Frozen Pipes

1/17/2014 (Permalink)

Polar Vertex is causing pipes to freeze.

The historic Polar Vortex that resulted in the coldest temps in 20 years has SERVPRO Franchises from the deep south up to the Canadian border and as far west as Kansas City busy responding to customers with water damage.
SERVPRO would like to remind residents and business owners that we are “Here to Help”. SERVPRO's Storm Team has been deployed to multiple locations across the US and is on-site helping those affected.

With the large number of claims and the need for cleanup and restoration, residents are encouraged to be patient while SERVPRO makes every effort to respond to each need as quickly as possible. To get help, file a claim online or contact your local SERVPRO Franchise.