Recent Water Damage Posts

What to Expect In A Water Damage

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Water on the floor SERVPRO® is here to help

After a water loss in your home, a quick response to begin the drying process is key. As mold can begin to grow, under the right conditions within 24-72 hours of exposure to moisture.  Getting your home dried out quickly and efficiently is important.

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)?
  • At SERVPRO®, we aim to have high standards in responding quickly to our customers' water loss. We know that having your home or business back to normal as quick as possible is the most important thing for you. Our phone lines are open 24/7, as emergencies can happen at anytime. Upon receiving an emergency call, our team of on-call technicians will be mobilized to respond to your home, and make that water loss “Like it never even happened.

Call us today 757-229-3442 or toll free at 800-889-5002

5 Water Damage Tips While You Wait

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Wand with water puddle 24/7 Emergency Services Available

There is only so much water damage mitigation you can do on your own. At the end of the day, when water damage is causing you problems, you need professional help FAST to get it cleaned up and your property restored. If you are struggling with water damage of any source, contact SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson for the high-quality water damage cleanup and restoration services you need. Our number is 757-229-3442, and we are available for 24/7 emergency services. 

When your property has suffered a burst sewer line, a pipe that is leaking, or a natural disaster, it can often leave your home severely water damaged. In such situations, it is critical to identify the cause and act quickly to prevent further destruction. 

It can be enormously stressful to deal with water damage, with it potentially leading to all other sorts of problems down the line. While it’s important to get repairs done by professionals, there are a few things you can do to help limit water damage where possible as well. In today’s blog, we’ll be discussing five DIY water damage restoration tips you can use to immediately begin addressing water damage in your home. 

What Can Water Damage Impact?

Water is crucial for life, but when it gets somewhere it’s not meant to be, it can cause all sorts of destruction. As a homeowner, you should understand what parts of your property are most at risk for water damage. After a storm, flooding, or other type of water damage, always be sure to inspect the following components:

  • Drywall
  • Insulation
  • Wood
  • Framing
  • HVAC
  • Pipes
  • Floor coverings
  • Etc.

How Severe Are the Damages?

To determine if it’s a water cleanup job you can do by yourself or you should hire a specialist for can be determined by evaluating a number of key factors:

  • Water Volume — If you have the right tools, when there is only a small amount of water, you can sometimes manage it on your own. Significant flooding, on the other hand, means it’s time to call a professional. 
  • Source of Damages — Certain types of water, such as blackwater and gray water, need to be handled with care, as they may contain contaminants or other health hazards. 
  • Severity of Damages — Light damage can generally be handled by homeowners, while significant damage can require more expeditious care and accurate repairs. For example, flooding on an upper floor can lead to water seeping through the floor and into the ceiling in the floor below, causing greater and greater damage the longer it goes unmitigated. 

5 Tips for DIY Water Damage Restoration in Your Home

After getting a picture of the situation, consider the following tips to ensure repairs are done quickly. Be aware that wet materials can start developing mold growth in a day, so there’s little time to wait!

#1: Disconnect Outlets

One of your first priorities after water damage in your home has occurred is to unplug all electronics in the vicinity immediately. You may not yet see the full extent of the water damage, and it’s important to be careful. If electronics become damaged, repairs will generally take longer and be more expensive, with the need for hiring an electrician.

#2: Start Addressing Mold

If you see mold starting to form, there are a few things you can do right away to mitigate it. When it’s a small area, you can cut it out of the wall and dispose of it. It’s also important to stop any air flow in the area to prevent further spread before a mold specialist can stop the contamination. 

#3: Start the Drying Process

While you may not have access to industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and other dry-out equipment that water damage cleanup companies such as SERVPRO do, you can start the dry out process right away. Properly drying out an area will help lessen the damage.

#4: Remove Damaged Materials

Avoid mildew by removing materials such as rugs and insulation that have become waterlogged. Consider focusing on floors and ceilings first, as these areas are the most at risk of causing serious structural damage. 

#5: Disinfect the Area

Water in your home is an open invitation for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive. Once you remove the damaged materials, disinfecting the area is important to prevent mold and other potentially health-damaging issues before the restoration process fully commences. Spray surfaces with bleach and wipe them down. 

Get Professional Water Damage Restoration Services in York

If you are looking for guidance or professional help with water damage beyond what you can handle on your own, contact the professional SERVPRO of York for 24/7 support. When your property has suffered water damage, we’re here to get it cleaned up and restored ASAP, saving you on stress and expenses. Don’t wait — get started today! 

With proper care, we can restore your home back to normal. We follow the comprehensive SERVPRO Method for water restoration. Don’t let the expenses or the health hazards become too great — call us now to get the support you need for your home!

757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

HIdden Water Damage

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

People in front of a kitchen sink We can help make sure your home is dry.

Call Us For Your Water Damages!

Our technicians  are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day, every day of the year. When you need emergency water restoration services for your home or commercial business. SERVPRO® of York, James City County & Poquoson are here to help. Call us at 757-229-3442.

SERVPRO® of York, James City County & Poquoson have been restoring water damages in the area for years. We use advanced technology, like infrared cameras, to detect hidden water leaks behind walls. Here are some examples of the types of technology and equipment we use to help our customers save time and money:

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Recent advances, like infrared cameras, help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

  • We use infrared cameras to identify water locations for thorough water removal
  • Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

  • Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
  • Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

  • High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
  • Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

How Do We Handle Water Damages

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

Man with fan We are here to help.

If you experience a water damage, it’s important to call professionals. Contact SERVPRO® of York, James City County and Poquoson at 757-229-3442 to get the help you need. We’re available 24/7 to serve you.

Residential water damage requires professional assistance to limit damage to furniture and other belongings, as well as guarding against mold growth and odor issues. Excess water in a home can be the result of a leak after heavy rainfall, a broken pipe, or a malfunctioning appliance. In some cases, the amount of water can cause problems with your flooring or other structural components of your home. SERVPRO® has trained technicians who are ready to assess the damage and bring your home or business back to normal safely.

Water damage assessment

When you call in the water remediation specialists at SERVPRO®, we immediately get to work assessing the extent of the damage. We determine if damage is limited to belongings, or if the damage is more widespread such as walls, flooring, roofs, etc. We determine the scope of your water damage, inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and establish how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Water removal and extraction

 Time is of the essence to keep damage to a minimum, the water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water that is visible. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove substantial amounts of water from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth. Once the water is removed, we then focus on drying.

Drying impacted areas

The goal of the drying process is to dry the affected area thoroughly. We use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business. Lingering odors commonly dissipate once the area is dry. We use portable extraction units to remove and dry water. Dehumidifiers can help to replace moisture with drier air as well as removing it from fabrics. Finally, we can use spray deodorizer on surfaces to ensure the offending odor is neutralized while they dissipate.

Cleaning damaged items

The cleaning process comes next. We focus on cleaning fabrics, rugs, or walls while the surface texture is still wet. The likelihood of a successful restoration of upholstery is higher before stains are allowed to set. Using agitative cleaning methods, alongside foam cleaning for sensitive fabrics SERVPRO® can target the damage before it becomes a permanent issue. We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Addressing remaining damage

In some cases, the water damage is substantial and restoration to get it back to what it was pre-water damage. Restoration may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet or may entail reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home. A SERVPRO® professional will review all substantial damage assessments and recommendations prior to any work beginning so homeowners are always in the loop.

Water Damage at Home? Let us help.

5/24/2023 (Permalink)

We have more than 50 years of experience in repair and restoration so you can trust us to help you develop a water damage restoration plan to help ensure your home is clean, dry and restored to its pre-damaged condition.

Our customer-focused professionals will assess the residential water damage to your property. Then, we’ll help you understand the severity of the damage so you’re able to make the best decisions for the restoration of your home. Our top-notch people use the most advanced equipment to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water.

Call SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson today for any water restoration needs 757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

5 Water Damage Tips, While you wait

3/23/2022 (Permalink)

There is only so much water damage mitigation you can do on your own. At the end of the day, when water damage is causing you problems, you need professional help FAST to get it cleaned up and your property restored. If you are struggling with water damage of any source, contact SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson for the high-quality water damage cleanup and restoration services you need. Our number is 757-229-3442, and we are available for 24/7 emergency services. 

When your property has suffered a burst sewer line, a pipe that is leaking, or a natural disaster, it can often leave your home severely water damaged. In such situations, it is critical to identify the cause and act quickly to prevent further destruction. 

It can be enormously stressful to deal with water damage, with it potentially leading to all other sorts of problems down the line. While it’s important to get repairs done by professionals, there are a few things you can do to help limit water damage where possible as well. In today’s blog, we’ll be discussing five DIY water damage restoration tips you can use to immediately begin addressing water damage in your home. 

What Can Water Damage Impact?

Water is crucial for life, but when it gets somewhere it’s not meant to be, it can cause all sorts of destruction. As a homeowner, you should understand what parts of your property are most at risk for water damage. After a storm, flooding, or other type of water damage, always be sure to inspect the following components:

  • Drywall
  • Insulation
  • Wood
  • Framing
  • HVAC
  • Pipes
  • Floor coverings
  • Etc.

How Severe Are the Damages?

To determine if it’s a water cleanup job you can do by yourself or you should hire a specialist for can be determined by evaluating a number of key factors:

  • Water Volume — If you have the right tools, when there is only a small amount of water, you can sometimes manage it on your own. Significant flooding, on the other hand, means it’s time to call a professional. 
  • Source of Damages — Certain types of water, such as blackwater and gray water, need to be handled with care, as they may contain contaminants or other health hazards. 
  • Severity of Damages — Light damage can generally be handled by homeowners, while significant damage can require more expeditious care and accurate repairs. For example, flooding on an upper floor can lead to water seeping through the floor and into the ceiling in the floor below, causing greater and greater damage the longer it goes unmitigated. 

5 Tips for DIY Water Damage Restoration in Your Home

After getting a picture of the situation, consider the following tips to ensure repairs are done quickly. Be aware that wet materials can start developing mold growth in a day, so there’s little time to wait!

#1: Disconnect Outlets

One of your first priorities after water damage in your home has occurred is to unplug all electronics in the vicinity immediately. You may not yet see the full extent of the water damage, and it’s important to be careful. If electronics become damaged, repairs will generally take longer and be more expensive, with the need for hiring an electrician.

#2: Start Addressing Mold

If you see mold starting to form, there are a few things you can do right away to mitigate it. When it’s a small area, you can cut it out of the wall and dispose of it. It’s also important to stop any air flow in the area to prevent further spread before a mold specialist can stop the contamination. 

#3: Start the Drying Process

While you may not have access to industrial fans, dehumidifiers, and other dry-out equipment that water damage cleanup companies such as SERVPRO do, you can start the dry out process right away. Properly drying out an area will help lessen the damage.

#4: Remove Damaged Materials

Avoid mildew by removing materials such as rugs and insulation that have become waterlogged. Consider focusing on floors and ceilings first, as these areas are the most at risk of causing serious structural damage. 

#5: Disinfect the Area

Water in your home is an open invitation for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive. Once you remove the damaged materials, disinfecting the area is important to prevent mold and other potentially health-damaging issues before the restoration process fully commences. Spray surfaces with bleach and wipe them down. 

Get Professional Water Damage Restoration Services in York

If you are looking for guidance or professional help with water damage beyond what you can handle on your own, contact the professional SERVPRO of York for 24/7 support. When your property has suffered water damage, we’re here to get it cleaned up and restored ASAP, saving you on stress and expenses. Don’t wait — get started today! 

With proper care, we can restore your home back to normal. We follow the comprehensive SERVPRO Method for water restoration. Don’t let the expenses or the health hazards become too great — call us now to get the support you need for your home!

757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Hidden Water Damage

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

thermal of water damage Call us with any water damage needs

Call Us For Your Water Damages!

Our technicians  are on-call and ready to respond 24-hours a day, every day of the year. When you need emergency water restoration services for your home or commercial business. SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson are here to help. Call us at 757-229-3442.

SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson have been restoring water damages in the area for years. We use advanced technology, like infrared cameras, to detect hidden water leaks behind walls. Here are some examples of the types of technology and equipment we use to help our customers save time and money:

Moisture Detection and Measurement Equipment

Recent advances, like infrared cameras, help us detect water through a wall, ceiling, or floor.

  • We use infrared cameras to identify water locations for thorough water removal
  • Sensitive moisture detectors, hygrometers, and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation

Water Extraction Equipment

  • Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water
  • Truck-mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal

Drying Equipment

We use industrial-strength air movers and dehumidifiers to remove the remaining moisture from ceilings, walls, and floors. Proper drying helps to prevent swelling and warping of floors, walls, and furniture.

  • High-speed air movers cause moisture to evaporate at a faster pace
  • Industrial grade dehumidifiers pull the water vapor from the air

How Do We Handle Water Damages

2/16/2022 (Permalink)

water Let a PROFESSIONAL help you today

If you experience a water damage, it’s important to call professionals. Contact SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poquoson at 757-229-3442 to get the help you need. We’re available 24/7 to serve you.

Residential water damage requires professional assistance to limit damage to furniture and other belongings, as well as guarding against mold growth and odor issues. Excess water in a home can be the result of a leak after heavy rainfall, a broken pipe, or a malfunctioning appliance. In some cases, the amount of water can cause problems with your flooring or other structural components of your home. SERVPRO has trained technicians who are ready to assess the damage and bring your home or business back to normal safely.

Water damage assessment

When you call in the water remediation specialists at SERVPRO, we immediately get to work assessing the extent of the damage. We determine if damage is limited to belongings, or if the damage is more widespread such as walls, flooring, roofs, etc. We determine the scope of your water damage, inspect and test to determine the extent of damage and establish how far the moisture has traveled to ensure proper and complete restoration.

Water removal and extraction

 Time is of the essence to keep damage to a minimum, the water removal process begins almost immediately and removes the majority of the water that is visible. We use powerful pumps and vacuum units to quickly remove substantial amounts of water from your property, which helps prevent secondary water damage and mold growth. Once the water is removed, we then focus on drying.

Drying impacted areas

The goal of the drying process is to dry the affected area thoroughly. We use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers needed to dry your home or business. Lingering odors commonly dissipate once the area is dry. We use portable extraction units to remove and dry water. Dehumidifiers can help to replace moisture with drier air as well as removing it from fabrics. Finally, we can use spray deodorizer on surfaces to ensure the offending odor is neutralized while they dissipate.

Cleaning damaged items

The cleaning process comes next. We focus on cleaning fabrics, rugs, or walls while the surface texture is still wet. The likelihood of a successful restoration of upholstery is higher before stains are allowed to set. Using agitative cleaning methods, alongside foam cleaning for sensitive fabrics SERVPRO can target the damage before it becomes a permanent issue. We clean all of the restorable items and structures damaged by the water. Our professionals are trained to provide sanitizing treatments and to remove odors and deodorize your property.

Addressing remaining damage

In some cases, the water damage is substantial and restoration to get it back to what it was pre-water damage. Restoration may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpet or may entail reconstruction of various areas or rooms in a home. A SERVPRO professional will review all substantial damage assessments and recommendations prior to any work beginning so homeowners are always in the loop.

Water Damage at Home? Give us a call

2/4/2022 (Permalink)

pipe with water If you have a water event in your home please call us to help get your home back in order.

We have more than 50 years of experience in repair and restoration so you can trust us to help you develop a water damage restoration plan to help ensure your home is clean, dry and restored to its pre-damaged condition.

Our customer-focused professionals will assess the residential water damage to your property. Then, we’ll help you understand the severity of the damage so you’re able to make the best decisions for the restoration of your home. Our top-notch people use the most advanced equipment to detect hidden moisture and extract standing water.

Call SERVPRO of York, James City County & Poquoson today for any water restoration needs 757-229-3442 or toll free 1-800-889-5002

We Are Here for Poquoson Businesses

2/2/2022 (Permalink)

equipment Call us today at 757-229-3442

While water damage can be dreadful for homeowners it is equally inconvenient for business owners. Unexpected leaks can be disturbing to the average work day for many.

SERVPRO is here! Not only do we help our fellow small businesses but also large commercial warehouses and everything in between. We try our best to get your business back up and running. No matter the cause you can be sure that we are here to aid in the recovery.

It is very important that as a business owner that any water damage is addressed quickly. Prolonged delays in mitigation can result in further damage to your property specifically microbial growth or in other words mold. Many types of molds exist. All molds have the potential to cause health effects. 

Fact: There are thousands of known mold species, they all require moisture for growth.Molds reproduce by producing large numbers of small spores

If your business is experiencing any water or mold damage give SERVPRO of York, James City County, Poquoson a call today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mold

Sewage Back Up, Why?

1/27/2022 (Permalink)

sewage call us today if you have a sewage backup at 757-229-3442

A sewage backup is one of a homeowner's worst nightmares. Caused by clogs or blocks in the sewer line, sewer backups occur when the sewage system gets overloaded, and waste is pushed backwards through the line and back into the home. Backups are commonly found in basement drains, toilets, and bathtub drains.

One of the most common homeowner insurance claims is because of sewer backups. This ends up being a nasty, messy catastrophe in your home, but what is the cause of it? There are a multitude of reasons why you could experience a sewage back up, but here are a couple of the most common.

  • Tree Roots
  • Clogged Drains
  • Sewer Main Blockages

Once a tree root has grown into a sewer line, the line will need to be replaced and often times the tree roots removed or trimmed down. This will be a big project involving digging into the ground and replacing the existing sewer lines.

Clogged drains are one of the most common reasons for a sewer backup. Improper use of toilets and sinks can cause a main sewer line to become clogged. Flushing cleaning wipes, diapers, napkins, and many other hygiene items can cause a sewer line to become clogged over time. Sewer lines are filled with a volatile combination of hair, soap, and dirty water, adding things such as grease or excess kitchen waste can clog the drain and lead to a sewer backup.

These types of issues can occur as a result of clogs that build up over time much like the typical clog you may experience in your household line. With household clogs, you will generally have an issue with specific drains in the house. For example, your toilet may not flush correctly, or your kitchen sink may be draining slowly. With sewer main blockages, the majority of your plumbing will not be draining throughout the house. It's common for water to be flooding back into your home from drain openings. Remember, the first thing you should do to minimize damage is to shut off all water supplies of your home and attempt to block all the drain openings.

SEWAGE back up can be very overwhelming to you as a homeower, SERVPRO is here to help!

Call SERVPRO today! 

757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-229-3442!

Tips While You Wait - Water Damage

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

equipment call the professionals when you have water damage in your home at 757-229-3442

Sometimes it takes homeowners or business owners as soon as few minutes to a few days to notice. So here are some tips to help you while you wait for our crews. These tips are for clean water sources such as cold supply lines, etc.:

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

  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water as electrical shock hazards may exist.

  • Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.

  • Move any painting, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture.

  • Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushion to allow more even drying.
  • Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors 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 ceiling is wet: don’t enter rooms where ceiling are sagging from retained water.

  • Call insurance company
  • SERVPRO cares we can help with any water damage
  • we are here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Experiencing water damage? Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-229-3442!

Having water damage at your home can be stressful and overwhelming, let SERVPRO help get your home back to normal

Poquoson Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Servpro technicians ready to help call us today to help with your water damage needs at 757-229-3442

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 Poquoson 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
  • Sump pump failure
  • Inproperly installed downspouts
  • Debri in the gutters

SERVPRO is highly trained in water damage restoration including basement and crawlspace flooding. We have the experience, expertise, and equipment to remove the water and dry your basement properly.  Our water removal and drying process emphasizes monitoring and documentation to validate your property is dry.

  • 24 Hour Emergency Service
  • Faster to Any Size Disaster
  • Highly Trained Water Damage Restoration Specialists
  • Locally Owned and Operated

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

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 York, James City County, and Poquoson and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust 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

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready to Help 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-229-3442!

SERVPRO can help get your home or basement back to normal after a flood.

How to Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

2/13/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen Pipe text over SERVPRO logo Got frozen pipes? Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

These Five Tips Can Keep Your Pipes From Freezing This Winter!

  1. Allow the faucet to drip:When pipes freeze, the pressure created by the blockage and faucet causes the pipe to burst. Allowing the faucet to be open and drip will relieve pressure in the system. If the faucet has both hot and cold water pipes, turn both handles slightly so that each pipe is open. If it is a single-handle faucet, turn it to warm.
  2. Keep the Heat On:Always keep the heat on in your home to keep your pipes warm and prevent the water from freezing. If you leave for a long period of time, keep your home between 50-55 degrees. 
  3. Apply Heating Tape:There are two types of heating tape for water pipes. One turns on and off by itself when it senses that heat is needed. The other type requires a plug when heat is needed. Heating tape acts as an electrical blanket for pipes during cold spells. These can be very useful when you do not want to think about keeping your faucets dripping. However, much like space heaters, these products can be dangerous so you must use safety precautions.
  4. Seal Up Cracks and Holes:Seal the gaps and holes that are letting cold air where pipes run through walls or floors. You can use spray foam insulation or caulk to fill the gaps. If possible, it is best to seal the holes on both the interior and exterior side of wall or floor.
  5. Add Extra Insulation:Pipes that are located in attics or basements that may not be insulated will likely require extra insulation to keep them warm. Pipes can be fitted with foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to help decrease the chances of freezing. 
  6. Close garage doors

    Make sure garage doors stay closed if pipes run through the garage.

  7. Open cabinet doors

    Opening kitchen and bathroom cabinets allows warm air to reach the plumbing and will help stop your pipes from freezing.

Ways to help avoid frozen pipes while on vacation

Always be sure to winterize your home thoroughly. Before you leave, take measures to protect your home so you can enjoy the time away, rather than worry about pipes and security. A few things to remember include:

  • Check the thermostat. Set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius). Also be sure to replace the battery in your thermostat.
  • Ask for help. Ask a friend or neighbor to check your house daily to make sure it's warm enough to prevent freezing.
  • Shut off the water. Shut off and drain the water system. Be aware that if you have a fire protection sprinkler system in your house, it may be deactivated when you shut off the water.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County and Poqouson a call if you experience any water damage due to frozen or burst pipes. 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

James City County's 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

24/7 call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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 - SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, overwhelmed and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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)?
  • How many rooms are affected?
  • What kind of flooring does the rooms have?
  • Are the walls and ceilings affected?
  • Once all the information is gathered we will put it in our Work Center program and our scheduler will call and schedule technicians to come out

About SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson 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.

Give us a call at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

Water Damage Timeline

1/25/2021 (Permalink)

water damage please call us today if you have water damage and need our help at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

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.

Water damage always requires immediate attention, even liquid spills should be cleaned up immediately to help prevent damage to your home, If an appliance fails homeowners can quickly respond by shutting off the water.

About SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson

SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson 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.

If you need any help with water damage up give SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson a call.

757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

3 Tips for Homeowners to Prevent Water Damage

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

servpro cares SERVPRO cares call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

While some water loss situations are unpreventable there are still ways to prevent others. Here are a few tips to prevent water damage in your home.

  1. Regularly check on in home appliances. Water heaters over time occasionally begin to rust and then leak. Dishwasher, washing machines, and refrigerators often have wear and tear on the water lines resulting in a leak and ultimately water damage.
  2. Test your sump pump. Sump pump failure is a very common cause for water damage and one that here at SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson get calls about frequently. It is generally recommended to check the sump pump once a year.
  3. Check your roof. Visual checks of the roof allow for the prevention of rain water creeping in. Any signs of cracks, curling or missing shingles should be fixed as soon as possible to prevent any further serious damage. Make sure to keep gutters clean,Although you might only consider gutter cleaning necessary once or twice a year, your home can really benefit from a monthly gutter cleaning.

It is also extremely important to note where your main water valve is located. During a leak it may be necessary to have to turn your water off having the knowledge of where your main water valve is will save you in the long run.

In case of any water damage call us today! SERVPRO of York, James City and Poquoson offers 24 Hour Emergency Service just for our customers so any issue can be “Like it never even happened.” We are waiting by the phones 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002!

ERP

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Servpro technicians ready to help call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Considering creating an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP) with a skilled SERVPRO technician. Your business needs to be prepared in case of an uncontrollable emergency. SERVPRO now offers a free app that allows you to create a profile for what you would do during a fire and water damage.

The app allows for SERVPRO to be able to accurately provide your business with a personally created plan. Questions include: where the water, electrical, gas, and computer server shut offs are located in you building. It also houses the contact information for key members in the company that would need to be contacted in case of an emergency.

SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson will send out a technician to get a very detailed and accurate approximation on the best way to protect your commercial business from any future water or fire damage.

Give SERVPRO of York, James City County, and Poquoson a call at 757-229-3442!

As many as 50% of businesses close down following a disaster, according to the latest research. Of the businesses that survive, the overwhelming majority of them had a preparedness plan in place. Pre-planning can serve as an insurance policy aimed at peace of mind. And knowing you are "Ready for whatever happens" speaks trust to your clients and employees that in the event your business is affected by a disaster, they don’t necessarily have to be.

Water Damage - tips while you wait

8/7/2019 (Permalink)

Servpro technicians ready to help call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

While water damage can be very stressful for homeowners, it is possible to restore your home back to normal with the right steps.

When water damage happens you could know about it a few minutes or days after it starts. So here are some tips to help you while you wait for our crews to reach your property if the water source is clean:

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

  • Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electrical shock. Do not enter rooms with standing water as electrical shock hazards may exist.

  • Remove as much 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 cushion to allow more even drying

  • Move any painting, art objects, computers, documents and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture

  • Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors 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 ceiling is wet: don’t enter rooms where ceiling are sagging from retained water

Experiencing water damage? Give of York / James City County / Poquoson a call (757)-229-3442!

Damage from Water?

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

water damage call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. We have the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measureable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. We will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by us:

  • Moisture Sensors

  • Moisture Meters

  • Thermo hygrometers

  • Ultra Low-Volume Foggers

  • Thermal Foggers

  • Infra Red Camera

Read our next blog to see what these tools do.

Call a Professional for Your Water Damage Restoration

Need Help? Call us today! 757-229-3442 or toll free @ 1-800-889-5002!

What goes into a Water Damage

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

bedroom with colaspe ceiling Fallen ceilings caused by water damage call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

A pipe burst in the attic of an older woman's home while she was away on vacation. When she returned her home was completely flooded. The homeowner had no idea how long the pipe had been dumping water into her whole house.  There was standing water at least an inch deep throughout the main level. This was after the water had traveled from the third story attic through the second story of the house saturating all the ceilings and walls.

Thankfully the woman’s daughter knew exactly who to call when her insurance company let her choose the restoration company to take care of her mother’s loss. SERVPRO was out onsite the morning of their return home. Our crews quickly went to work extracting the standing water. Putting equipment into place to start the structural drying of the home. Cleaning up debris as ceilings were falling due to the weight of the drywall being water saturated with water.

The contents from the home was cleaned and packed away while the restoration of her home was going on. The carpet and flooring had to be demoed as everything was ruined by the standing water.

Even though there was demo happening most people would ask why it is necessary to have drying equipment on site? When demoing a whole house water damage that had been sitting for a long period of time you remove the ruined materials: drywall, tile, hardwood, baseboards, and so on. Once the saturated materials are removed SERVPRO dries the framing other materials that are savable. With drying the materials that are left in the house SERVPRO can help insure that mold will not be an issue once the home is put back together; with hanging drywall and replacing flooring

Call a Professional for Your Water Damage Restoration

Need Help? Call us today 757-229-3442 or toll free @ 800-889-5002!

Step to Coordinating Your Water Damage

5/22/2018 (Permalink)

equipment call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free at 1-800-889-5002

Water damages initially have more going on behind closed doors than you think.

  1. The loss occurs, water is flowing from unknown source or visible source

  2. You call SERVPRO or your Insurance company, that then, gives you SERVPRO’s number

  3. SERVPRO then walks you through a few questions, a main one being have you turned off the source of damage. If the answer is you can’t turn it off yourself, we set up a plumber or other professional to turn off the damage causing source

    We will also asked how many rooms are affected, what type of flooring each room has, are walls or ceilings affected as well
  4. Meanwhile our 24/7 on call company sets a crew in route towards your loss with a ready truck that has been preloaded with all the equipment needed to take care of your loss

  5. When arriving an authorization to perform services is signed

  6. After that our crews go to work drying out your home or buildings

Need Help? Call us today at 757-229-3442 or toll free @ 800-889-5002!