Do you have water Damage? Call SERVPRO®

3/27/2024 (Permalink)

When you find yourself in a water damage catastrophe, no one can handle the damage better than professionals here at SERVPRO^®. During such a stressful time, you will need someone to help you see there is a light at the end of the tunnel; dealing with water damage can put a lot of strain on you.

Here at SERVPRO we display both experience and empathy while seamlessly guiding you through the process. We explain every step and detail to you so that you’re fully aware of what will be happening in your home or business. Here is a brief summary of some of the steps our professionals take:

Step 1 – Technicians remove standing water with state-of-the-art extractors and pumps
Step 2 – Carpets are pulled up, and floors are dried completely
Step 3 – All electronics and appliances that are damaged will be brought back to their

pre-damaged conditions where possible
Step 4 – The damaged site is disinfected in order to kill bacteria or mold growth

Fortunately, in most instances, your insurance will cover all damage sustained to your home. Most professionals will be able to help you start the claims process to quickly handle the situation. With the right preventative information and a good expert at your side, any water damage issues you face should hopefully be minimal and resolved before you know it.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Catonsville are here to help. Contact us 24/7 at (410) 242-7370.

Commercial Property & Water Damage

9/15/2023 (Permalink)

Thousands of commercial buildings experience water damage every day.  In some cases, the damage is from storms or flash floods.  In others, it is simply from a leak.  Often the damage is from a fire being extinguished -- in fact, counter-intuitively, most fires result in more water damage than fire damage. Water is the most common type of damage that commercial buildings experience. When it is not dealt with promptly and effectively, the problem can rapidly grow from a minor issue to something costing thousands or tens of thousands of dollars. SERVPRO of Catonsville can help.

Here are a few suggestions for how to best protect your business from water damage and minimize the fall-out when something does happen:

Prepare an Emergency Plan:  Given how integral water is to all life and most industries, it is almost guaranteed that a commercial building will have to deal with water damage at some point. Thus, one of the best things a business owner can do is prepare for that inevitability ahead of time to keep losses to a minimum. Because water damage in Catonsville can grow exponentially if not addressed immediately, time is of the essence.  Be prepared by having a company like SERVPRO of Catonsville on your speed dial.

Your emergency plan should include:  A blueprint is showing where the shut-off points are for water, electricity and gas plus a set of instructions on how to shut them down fast.
 A conveniently located toolbox.  A list of emergency phone numbers, such as the fire department, plumbers, SERVPRO of Catonsville, emergency personnel, and police.

After you have an emergency plan in place for your commercial building, you should focus on prevention. Inspecting vulnerable areas is a good practice.

Inspect Your Roof Regularly:  Check all rooftop penetrations, both interior and exterior.
Look for water stains.  Check all flashing, drains and seals.

Inspect Your Walls Regularly:  Check wall joints around doors and windows.  Check flashing and sealant integrity.

Inspect Your Windows Regularly:  Check for air seal integrity.  Test all locks and other mechanical parts.  Check flashing and joints.  Look for water stains or mold growth on window sills and interior walls.

Emergency plans and inspections are both measures to lessen any disruption to your commercial building.

SERVPRO of Catonsville is locally owned and operated — so we live and work here and are proud to be part of the Catonsville community.  We're Faster to Any Disaster.

We are just a phone call away to help.  Call us 24/7 at (410) 242-7370

Flood Watch vs. Flood Warning

4/21/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service, floods can occur almost any time of the year. When flooding conditions are possible, the NWS issues notifications to the public. Below is a breakdown of each type of alert:

Flood Watch (Be Prepared): A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flood Advisory (Be Aware): A Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

Flood Warning (Take Action!): A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flash Flood Warning (Take Action!): A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

Strong rains and flooding can cause serious damage to your home and property. If you experience water damage, call us. We’re here to help: 410-242-7370.

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About SERVPRO of Catonsville  

SERVPRO of Catonsville 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. SERVPRO of Catonsville is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here, too and we are proud to be part of the Catonsville community.

Water Damage Restoration

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Catonsville provides 24-hour fire and water damage restoration service to Catonsville and the surrounding communities.

Our professional restoration specialists are 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 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 Catonsville 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 Us

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)?

Since each water damage situation is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored for the specific conditions.  We have the equipment, expertise, and experience to restore your water-damaged property.  We will also treat your family with empathy and respect and your property with care.

Have you experienced a flood or water damage situation? We’re here to help. Call us: 410-242-7370.

What Causes Mold?

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

We’ve all heard horror stories about mold. Maybe you’ve even experienced mold in your own home. But where does it come from? What causes mold?

Below are some of the most common source of mold-causing moisture:

• Flooding from storms coming from outside
• Sump pump overflow
• Roof leaks from damaged roofs, ice dams or blocked gutters
• Rain from storms through window frames, exterior walls, or doors
• Leaking pipes, sewer back-ups or overflows
• Damp basements due to high water table or badly managed water drainage
• Condensation on cold surfaces

To grow and thrive, mold needs:

• High humidity
• Warm or temperate Temperature
• Poor ventilation

Mold is easier to prevent than it is to clean so keeping an eye on common sources of mold, maintaining a dry, ventilated home and drying homes from water damage within 24 hours of an incident is the best way to prevent mold from happening in the first place.

SERVPRO of Catonsville, specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If you have mold, call us 410-242-7370

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About SERVPRO of Catonsville   

SERVPRO of Catonsville 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. SERVPRO of Catonsville is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here, too and we are proud to be part of the Catonsville community.

Do We Need A Sprinkler System?

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

No home or business wants to deal with the destruction caused by fire or water. One of the best ways to minimize potential damage and associated expenses is to maintain a commercial fire sprinkler system. A sprinkler system is a highly effective fire suppression strategy that can prevent many significant losses.  

1. They're Activated by Heat, Not Smoke

A sprinkler system is not activated by smoke Instead, the heat generated by a fire rises to the ceiling, where the sprinkler heads are located. Sensors recognize the change in temperature and trigger the release of water. Only sprinklers in the area of the fire will be activated. It is possible that only a single sprinkler head will deploy.

2. They Use High-Pressure Water

The pipes that feed the fire sprinkler system are always filled with pressurized water. There will be no delay between the activation of the system and the release of water. The volume of water from even a single sprinkler can help contain a fire, which reduces fire and water damage to the rest of the structure. By the time the fire department arrives, the fire will likely not have spread further. It may even be extinguished by the sprinkler system.

3. They Can Minimize Cleanup After a Fire

Minimal fire sprinkler cleanup is another key advantage of a sprinkler system. While there will still be fire and water damage, it is likely to be much less extensive than what you'd find in a building without a sprinkler system. The fire damage should be limited to the area where sprinklers activated. The water damage from sprinklers is far less intrusive than water damage caused by fire hoses.

Any fire will cause structural and water damage. The primary benefit of a fire sprinkler system is that inevitable damage will be kept to a minimum, resulting in saved dollars and saved lives.

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Call us 24/7. We’re here to help. 410-242-7370

How Quickly Can Water Damage My Home?

2/6/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage, a fast response is crucial.

What happens in a typical water damage situation (burst pipe, sewage backup, aquarium breakage, roof/foundation leak, etc.)?

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.

Have questions about Water Damage prevention or mitigation? Call us at 410-242-7370. We’re here to help. 

A Sewage Backup

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

A flooded bathroom is bad enough, but when you add sewage to the mix, it can become a dangerous situation very quickly.

Our team was recently called to a home where a sewage backup started in a basement bathroom and affected not only the bathroom but also a bedroom and utility room. Our technicians worked quickly to assess the damage, clear the water and then clean the sewage, taking extra precautions to keep themselves and the home safe.

Sewage backups are classified as a Category 3 water type, which may contain harsh chemicals and microbes which may cause health problems.

Due to extensive training and experience, our team was able to mitigate the damage and ensure the home was safe for the occupants.

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If your home suffers damage due to contaminated water, don't wait. Call a skilled and experienced professional like our team at SERVPRO of Catonsville to clean and dry your home and keep it safe for you and your family.

What Happens When We Find Lead in the Home?

9/30/2021 (Permalink)

Last month, our team was called to a home built in 1960 after a serious roof leak affected several areas of the home.

Our first order of business was to tarp the roof to prevent further water from entering the structure. Due to the extent of the damages, several walls and ceilings needed demolition.

We also performed a lead test before beginning the work because of the age of the home. It came back positive, so our team placed the areas we were working in under containment.

From there, our team was able to safely proceed with the mitigation and drying of the structure.

Burst Pipe Causes Kitchen Damage

8/29/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage jobs are our most frequent calls at SERVPRO of Catonsville.

Our crews recently responded to a home where a pipe had burst under the kitchen sink. The water had affected the hardwood floors in the kitchen and dining room and had also seeped into the basement.

Because fast action is the key to a successful mitigation, we sent our estimator out that same afternoon to assess the damage and prepare an estimate for the homeowner.

Additionally, the power to the home had been shut off, so before work could begin, an electrician had to come out to restore it. Our crew was immediately onsite the next day to begin the work.

How To Prevent Mold

8/4/2021 (Permalink)

You've recently experienced a water damage situation in your home. How can you prevent mold from growing as a result?

Follow the tips below:

• Keep the humidity between 30 to 60 percent.
• Provide for proper drainage away from building foundations.
• Regularly inspect plumbing and appliances for leaks. Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.
• Inspect the roof, windows, and other areas where water might enter the building.
• Respond to all water intrusions immediately.

And most importantly... you don't have to do it all yourself. Call our trained technicians today to mitigate your water damage and properly dry your home to prevent mold growth: 410-242-7370.

Sump Pump Failure

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage in homes can be caused by many different factors including burst pipes, leaking roofs, backups and overflow, and especially during storm season, sump pump failure.

In June, our team responded to a call for water damage to a basement as a result of a failed sump pump. The damage affected the entire basement level, including three bedrooms, a bathroom, a family room, and a storage & utility room.

To mitigate the problem, our technicians flood cut all rooms 2-feet high and removed the insulation as well as the flooring.

Fast action in a situation like this is the key to preventing further damage and mold growth in the home.

Water Damage Amid Covid-19

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Unexpected water damage during the COVID-19 crisis?

You know you need to address and fix the problem but you may still be concerned about inviting anyone into your home at this time. What do you do?

At SERVPRO of Catonsville, we’re open and here to help. Not only to fix the water damage but to make you feel comfortable with our presence in your home.

Rest assured, we are absolutely committed to keeping your family, your home, and our technicians safe during this challenging time.

What we’re doing:

1. Additional questions: When you call our office, we’ll ask additional questions to understand your individual household situation.

• Is anyone in your home currently sick?
• Has anyone in your home recently been sick?
• Has anyone in your home recently traveled?

2. At a minimum, our Technicians are required to wear gloves and at least a mask on any and all jobs until further notice.

3. Our Technicians will respect your space and work quickly and efficiently to fix the damage

We know this is a difficult time, so if you’ve experienced a recent water loss, call us: 410-242-7370. We’ll answer all of your questions and get the problem fixed quickly and safely.

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About SERVPRO of Catonsville  

SERVPRO of Catonsville 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. SERVPRO of Catonsville is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here, too and we are proud to be part of the Catonsville community.

What To Do If You See Mold In Your Home

2/15/2021 (Permalink)

Dear SERVPRO of Catonsville,

What should I do if I find mold in my home?

~ Baltimore County Homeowner

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Water damage is one of the many causes of mold growth in a home. If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact a trusted professional for an inspection and mold remediation services.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Catonsville specializes in mold cleanup and restoration. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly eliminate your mold problem quickly and safely.

 If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – 410-242-7370

Dear SERVPRO - Water Damage

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Dear SERVPRO of Catonsville,

Recently, our home suffered extensive water damage due to a burst pipe.  Is there anything we could have done to prevent so much damage?

- Baltimore County Homeowner

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Dear Homeowner,

Water damage in your home is almost always an unexpected and stressful situation. In the moment, you’ll likely feel panic and devastation, wondering what steps to take and who to call for help.

Check out our list of Emergency Tips that you can use to take control of a water damage situation while you wait for help to arrive.

DO:

• Shut off the water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.

• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.

• Remove as much of the excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.

• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

• Remove and prop-up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.

• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

• Remove to a safe dry place any paintings, art objects, computer, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.

• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.

• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.

• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

DON’T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazard may exist.

• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.

• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors to cause staining.

• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall to wall carpets to cause staining.

• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.

• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.

• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retaining water.

Have more questions about Water Damage? We’re here to help. Call us at 410-242-7370.

Flood Safety Basics

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service, “Flooding is a coast-to-coast threat to some part of the United States and its territories nearly every day of the year.”

Below, we’ve compiled basic facts and safety tips from ready.gov, designed to keep you safe during a flooding event.

What is a flood?

Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death.

Floods may:

• Result from rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges and overflows of dams and other water systems.
  
• Develop slowly or quickly. Flash floods can come with no warning.
  
• Cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings and create landslides.
  

 IF YOU ARE UNDER A FLOOD WARNING, FIND SAFE SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

• Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
  • Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
    
• Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.
  
• Depending on the type of flooding:
  • Evacuate if told to do so.
    
  • Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
    
  • Stay where you are.
    

Flooding can cause serious damage to your home and property. If you experience water damage, call us. We’re here to help: 410-242-7370.

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About SERVPRO of Catonsville  

SERVPRO of Catonsville 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. SERVPRO of Catonsville is locally owned and operated—so we live and work here, too and we are proud to be part of the Catonsville community.

The Water You DON'T See Can Cause the Most Damage

1/9/2020 (Permalink)

There's no such thing as a small disaster.

Especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria or causes mold, rot and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. So, before you get out the mop, bucket, and box fan to try and clean it up yourself, consider how this will affect your property.

A mop and common cleaning products may not be enough for serious water intrusions. Your local SERVPRO of Catonsville is trained to safely clean and RESTORE your building, utilizing the following procedures:

• Identify the Source/Type of Water
• Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
• Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises
• Perform Emergency Water Extraction
• Apply Necessary Treatments
• Utilize Drying Equipment and Monitor Drying

Before you risk further damaging the value of your home or facility by attempting to clean up the mess yourself, call your local SERVPRO of Catonsville water damage cleanup and restoration specialist at 410-242-7370.

About SERVPRO of Catonsville

SERVPRO of Catonsville 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 and we are an IICRC Certified Firm. SERVPRO of Catonsville is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We’re also part of a national network of over 1,700 Franchises, which gives us access to more resources for larger cleaning or restoration projects or major storm scenarios.

Effects of Water Damage

5/29/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage is a problem that most property owners dread. When it rains heavily or snow melts quickly, the risk of this type of damage increases. Water can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage by damaging wood furniture, upholstery, electronics, household appliances, and plumbing equipment. Water damage also increases the risk of mold growth, which is a very expensive problem to remediate. Hiring a water damage restoration company can make the cleanup process easier to handle, as these companies employ experienced workers who know the best ways to repair or replace damaged items and help with water damage cleanup.

Causes of Water Damage

There are several possible causes of water damage. Leaky dishwashers, clogged toilets, broken pipes, broken dishwasher hoses, overflowing washing machines, leaky roofs, plumbing leaks, and foundation cracks are just some of the possible causes of water damage in homes and businesses. Floods, heavy snow, and heavy rain are other possible causes of this type of damage and can lead to having water in basements. Too much water can lead to minor problems such as water in basement areas, or it can lead to the destruction of homes and businesses. Once a home or business sustains water damage, it is important to start the water damage cleanup immediately. Starting water damage cleanup as soon as possible increases the likelihood of saving water-soaked furniture, carpets, rugs, clothing, and other items.

Categories of Water Damage

Assessing the severity of the damage is important for determining what is needed to start water damage repair and water removal. There are several different categories assigned to water damage. Category 1 refers to clean water, or water that does not pose a threat to humans. Possible causes of this type of damage include broken appliances or sink overflows. Category 2 water is also called gray water. This means that the water is contaminated and may cause sickness of ingested. This type of water contains microorganisms. Broken toilets, broken sump pumps, and seepage may cause category 2 water damage. Category 3 water is known as black water. This type of water is unsanitary, as it contains bacteria and other organisms that cause sickness. The possible sources of black water damage include sewage problems and contamination of standing water.

There are also several classes of water damage. The class of damage is important when assessing water damage repair options. Class 1 is the least harmful form of damage. Materials absorb very little of the water from this type of damage. Water damage repair is the easiest in this type of situation. Class 2 has a fast rate of evaporation, which means that carpets and cushions may be damaged. Water damage repair is more difficult when it involves class 2 damage. Class 3 has the fastest rate of evaporation. In this case, the water may come from broken sprinklers or other overhead sources, soaking the walls and furniture. Class 4 requires special water restoration and water removal procedures. This type of damage may affect hardwood floors, plaster, and concrete.

Restoration Process

The water restoration process is an important one. Using the right procedures and materials can help people save cherished belongings and even prevent their homes from being condemned. Water restoration companies specialize in mitigating the effects of water, but the success for water damage restoration depends on the severity of the damage and the amount of water that caused the damage. Water restoration companies may hire outside experts to assess a property and determine a water restoration and water removal plan. These water restoration companies typically use high-tech equipment and well-documented procedures to control water damage. Water in basement areas may only require a short cleanup process, but water in other areas of a property will require extensive remediation.

Health Hazards

It is important to hire one of these water damage restoration companies as soon as possible after water damage occurs. Moisture promotes the growth of mold and other organisms, increasing the risk for serious health problems. Mold exposure may aggravate allergy and asthma symptoms, especially in children and people with compromised immune systems. Exposure may also increase the risk for respiratory diseases and other medical problems. Cleaning up immediately can help mitigate the health effects of water damage on everyone in a home or commercial space.

If you find yourself faced with flooding in your home, it is vital that you contact the right professionals right away, which should include emergency plumbers and water damage repair like SERVPRO of Catonsville 410-242-7370. Do know though that while an immediate reaction can help mitigate damage, it is just as important to give your plumbing system the care and attention it deserves.

Water Damage Restoration Process w/ Professionals

3/5/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration Process

If you have water damage, you should absolutely consider contacting a professional to help with water removal. Water damage restoration follows several different classes and categories and you should always consult with an expert.

Step 1 – Technicians remove standing water with state-of-the-art extractors and pumps
Step 2 – Carpets are pulled up, and floors are dried completely
Step 3 – All electronics and appliances that are damaged will be brought back to their pre-damaged conditions where possible
Step 4 – The damaged site is disinfected in order to kill bacteria or mold growth

Water Damage Experts and Professionals

When you find yourself in a water damage crisis, no one can handle the damage better than professionals. During such a stressful time, you will need someone to help you see there is a light at the end of the tunnel; dealing with water damage can put a lot of strain on you.

A true professional will exhibit both experience and empathy while seamlessly guiding you through the process. They should explain every step and detail to you so that you’re fully aware of what will be happening in your home or workplace.

Fortunately, in most instances, your insurance will cover all damages sustained to your home. Most professionals will be able to help you start the claims process in order to quickly handle the situation. With the right preventative information and a good expert at your side, any water damage issues you face should hopefully be minimal and resolved before you know it.

If you need help with the big part of the recovery job — pulling up carpet, taking down drywall, removing appliances, so forth — you can SERVPRO of Catonsville to help you 410-242-7370. These professionals are licensed and experienced in handling situations like flood recovery and know where to start. They can also look out for disaster-specific issues like mold, foundation issues and the like.

Precautions Before Help Arrives To Clean Up Your Clean Water

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers from a storm, its critical to know the difference between different levels of contaminated water. There are 3 classes of water, Clean, Gray and Black.

Clean water: Clean water is water from a broken pipe, water from a hot water heater, or sink. The time frame for a clean water water damage is limited as if it sits for longer than 24 hours it is then considered gray water. 

Here is a list of precautions to take to protect your personal belongings from a clean source water damage until help arrives.

•  Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.

• Turn off the circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electric shock

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting

• remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions to allow a more even drying.

• move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place

• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet as they may cause staining

• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner

• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

When you have a water damage, don't leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Catonsville. We are certified in Water damage, biohazard clean up and mold remediations. We also accept all insurance companies.   Call 410-242-7370 for more details.

Flood Damage

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

Flood Damage

Flooding can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damages to your home. To prepare your home for potential flooding, ensure that the ground is sloped away from your foundation. This will defend your home against water buildup. Also, regularly maintain any storm drains, gutters and downspouts. Other tips include:

• Cleaning gutters regularly
• Check and clean storm drains on a bimonthly basis
• Clean the storm drain cover
• Check window wells and sump pumps
• Construct barriers to stop flood water from getting into your home.
• Raise your heating system to a higher floor level to avoid flood water.
• Seal cracks in the basement walls.

If you find yourself faced with flooding in your home, it is vital that you contact the right professionals right away, which should include emergency plumbers and water damage repair like SERVPRO of Catonsville 410-242-7370. Do know though that while an immediate reaction can help mitigate damage, it is just as important to give your plumbing system the care and attention it deserves.

Facts About Flooding & Water Damage

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

Here are some interesting flood facts that might surprise you:

• Floods ranked #1 in the United States for natural disasters.
• Two feet of rushing water can easily carry a car away.
• Flash floods are known to bring walls of water 10 to 15 feet high.
• There is a risk of 1 in 4 chances of a flood damaging your home with a 30 year period in a high-risk area.
• Homes in high-risk flood areas are more likely to suffer from water damage than fire damage.
• Most basic homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood damage.
• Areas experiencing new land development are at an increased risk of flooding, especially if the construction changes the natural runoff paths.
• For the last decade, total flood insurance claims averages more than $3.4 billion per year.

Now that you know some interesting facts about floods, how can you prevent floods from damaging your home? Below are a couple of tips on ways you can prevent water damage from floods.

Check for dark spots and other signs of water damage under your pipes and inside cabinets. Check for water stains on ceilings and for toilets that aren’t secure. Take a moment to inspect your roof for missing or loose shingles. Repair any cracked caulking and check your windows and door frames for any damage or gaps.

If you find a leak and you put off fixing it, it could lead to an even bigger water damage disaster or even mold growth. Don’t delay addressing water damage – you may not be able to see the extent of the damage until it is too late.

If your property does suffer water damage, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Catonsville  to handle cleanup and restoration. We provide emergency response 24/7 and will respond quickly in your time of need. Contact us 410-242-7370

What you Should Know about Burst Pipes & Water Damage

11/2/2017 (Permalink)

Burst pipes are quite a common emergency in homes anywhere in the U.S., but they particularly affect areas that experience freezing temperatures.

If you find yourself faced with burst pipes, it is vital that you contact the right professionals right away, which should include emergency plumbers and water damage repair like SERVPRO of Catonsville 410-242-7370. Do know though that while an immediate reaction can help mitigate damage, it is just as important to give your plumbing system the care and attention it deserves.

Improper use and unfixed damage: Putting unnecessary stress on the pipes

Pipe failure does not happen merely because of nearly freezing water. It can also occur due to improper use of the plumbing system, or when you do not take care of existing problems right away. All these factors contribute to increased stress on the pipes, which then adds to the pressure building up inside, causing them to rupture.

Bursting due to clogging within, even in normal conditions

Internal blockages usually force the water back the way they came, resulting in the disgusting, even health-hazardous liquid commonly referred to as “back-ups.” However, this is not your only worry.

These clogged pipes can also burst, whether with freezing conditions or not. The blockages, combined with the pressure of the incoming water, create pressure. When this pressure reaches too great a level for the pipes to contain, they can rupture.

More than just filthy water or torrential flow to worry about

Although you should already be concerned about these two things, especially since the former can give rise to health hazards while the latter means so much water wastage, you still have to worry about plenty other things. Water damage is another huge problem, as this can put you out of your home for several days, especially when you do not have it fixed and restored right away.