The First 48 Hours After a Flood Is Crucial!

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Don't wait! The first 48 hours are critical!!

ACT FAST. The sooner you clear the contents out of your basement during a water incident, the more likely you will be able to restore the condition to your items and possessions.

When a finished basement experiences significant water damage, such as a basement flooding or a water pipe burst, timing is everything. Where the sooner you begin the disaster recovery process, the more likely you will be able to restore the condition of your possessions and the finished basement environment.

The first 48 hours are considered the most important time period to react, as it is crucial to preventing further damage to the basement and the items within, as well as preventing a wide spread mold problem. Below are the first steps to take, preferably within these first 48 hours.

1. Turn Off the Power. Never enter a flooded basement or touch the flood waters without cutting off the power.
2. Call your insurance company. Policies differ. Most require special flood insurance to cover ground water leaks, but homeowner’s insurance may cover damage from indoor plumbing and hot water heater leaks.
3. Get the water out as soon as possible. Call SERVPRO of Fairfield County to extract any standing water. If there isn’t a lot of water, you might try to get it out yourself, with a “floor sucker” or a shop-vac.

Dry everything out as quickly as possible

To prevent items and building materials from becoming ruined, dry your basement as soon as the water is removed. Ideally, the basement should be completely dry within 48 hours. After that, the potential for mold growth increases considerably. A professional restoration company might help expedite this process. Alternatively, you can consider acquiring a powerful basement dehumidifier.

Certification is Key!

3/18/2022 (Permalink)

Our technicians are trained and always ready to help!

Certification is Key to Proper Water Damage Remediation

Flooding of any type will ruin some personal possessions (books, papers, and cloth) within minutes. In just a few hours, carpets and flooring can be destroyed as well as furniture. After only a day, walls can become damaged past repair and will have to be removed and replaced before a homeowner or renter can return to their house.

When it comes to water removal for our Columbus neighbors, we require our personnel to meet the high standards established by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). SERVPRO also maintains an extensive inventory of specialized equipment built to extract flood water, regardless of the source and where it might be located in your home.

Each team member is trained on this equipment to quickly remove water. Since that is only the beginning, however, we also require them to become certified in five areas as determined by the IICRC. They are:

Water Damage - This overall course covers the many types of water damage and the effects it has on a home. Concentration is given to problems such as overflowing sewers and mold contamination.

Applied Structural Drying - This teaches each technician to use monitoring equipment, moisture extractors and specialized heaters and fans to dry walls and floors that have been under water.

Carpet Cleaning - Our team members learn to identify fabrics and the proper cleaning techniques required for each one. They also are taught to safely use the different cleaning chemicals available to us and how to use them with our vacuums and extractors.

Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning - Techs learn more fiber and cloth identification. Each person also learns about the specific cleaning issues needed to prevent fabrics from bleeding their colors, shrinking or otherwise becoming distorted from having been soaked.

Odor Control - Personnel learn to identify the source of odors caused by flooding or other water damage and the deodorization techniques available to combat them.

In addition to these areas, each technician is trained and qualified on every piece of equipment they might use on each job. Our inspectors also receive additional, specialized training to identify potential problems before they happen.

Get ahead of potential problems and call SERVPRO of Fairfield County to schedule an inspection. If you may have or suspect damage from previous flooding, call us today at 740-756-7003. We're ready to serve you.

Do Your Walls Have Water Damage?

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

This homeowner knew they had water damage by the discoloration they noticed.

Have you ever wondered if your walls have water damage? Sometimes it's not so easy to identify.  And, as you know, water losses don't typically happen during convenient hours of the day. It’s not always easy to identify if your walls are damaged, but here are some signs to look for.

Common Signs of Water Damage In Your Walls

1. Musty Odor: Water damage can often cause mold damage and/or mildew damage if left undetected. But unfortunately, mold isn't always visible. If you notice a musty odor, that's a sign there may be mold somewhere you don't see. You want to make sure both sides of your walls are checked and tested for mold damage. Most importantly, you'll want to find the source of your water issues so the mold doesn't return and cause more damage.
2. Visible Mold Growth On Walls And Baseboards: Always be on the lookout for visible mold growth, it comes in various sizes. Mold infestation can quickly spread throughout a home in 48-72 hours. But you want to be careful because mold may cause health effects to you and your family, including your pet. That is why it is very important to contact trained professionals who have the proper training and experience to remove and remediate mold.
3. Discoloration: Discoloration is a key indicator that your walls are damaged as a result of water damage. The common colors associated with discoloration are yellow, brown, or copper.
4. Peeling Or Bubbling Paint And Wallpaper: The peeling or bubbling of paint or wallpaper is another key indicator that your walls are damaged. It is important to contact trained professionals to access your walls, to prevent further damage from happening down the road.
5. Warped Walls: Inspect your walls carefully to see if you have any warped walls. When the sheetrock behind a wall absorbs too much water, it will start to bend and curve, which, in turn, can cause the wall to warp.
6. Water Stains: Inspect your walls carefully for any potential water stains. Water stains can easily be missed, especially if they are tiny in size. Since they can start out small, homeowners typically don't notice the water stains until they have increased in size, which, at that time, further damage may have occurred. It's a good idea to inspect around your windows and frames as well.

If you notice signs of water damage in your walls, don't hesitate to call our SERVPRO team! We are always here to help!

What's That Smell?! It Might Be Water Damage

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

If you smell something funny in your home, call our SERVPRO of Fairfield County Team!

Do you know when to be worried about a funny smell? Most new homeowners are not water damage specialists, but the human nose is an excellent tool for sniffing out trouble. Your nose is not the only way to spot water damage in your new home. Our SERVPRO of Fairfield County technicians are IICRC certified and can help handle any moisture problems you may discover after moving in.

The sooner you notice a problem, the sooner you can call our team to help mitigate ongoing damages. Some water damage will be easier to spot. When you notice a problem, a highly trained SERVPRO professional can assess the extent of your damages. We can use our specialized equipment to remedy the issue fast.

What should you keep an eye out for when you do your spring cleaning? Start at the top. When looking for roof damages, obvious water stains aren't the only problem. Swollen insulation is usually an indication of water retention. Check your flashing (where the roof meets the walls) for cracks and look for missing shingles as well as more obvious signs like holes. Look at door frames and molding. Unusual stains or dark spots on the walls can mean trouble.

Inside, make sure you check your appliances after you move in to be certain they are not leaking where you cannot see easily behind them. Cracked hoses and loose connections can be tricky. Ripples, buckling, and changes in texture can tell you the flooring has a water problem. Remember to trust your nose. If it smells wrong, it probably is.

Outside water damages and mold are often caused by improper drainage. Check your spouts to see that they are clear and make sure you do not have water pooling around the foundation of your new home. At the first sign of damage, you can call SERVPRO.

No one wants to find water damages in their new home this spring. If you do, SERVPRO of Fairfield County is available at (740) 756-7003 24 hours a day. We can make things “Like it never even happened.”

Help! My Pipes Are Frozen!

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Cold temperatures can lead to frozen pipes, that's why our SERVPRO Team is always here to help!

The cold temperatures in southern Columbus can lead to a number of problems for local homeowners. One of which may include frozen pipes. A hard freeze can even lead to broken pipes or water damage in your home. Here are some things you may want to know about what to expect when your pipes freeze.

What To Do When Pipes Freeze

If you have a frozen pipe in your home there are a few things you can do

• Call a professional, like SERVPRO for help
• Keep your pipes open so the water has a place to go when thawed
• Apply gentle heat, like a hot towel or blow dryer, to the frozen area of the pipe

Why Pipes Freeze

During a hard freeze the temperature outdoors can drop so low that the cold can permeate the pipes. Any water inside will then expand. If there is not enough room inside the pipes, then the pressure can cause cracks which will lead to leaks when the water thaws. A water damage professional can help with repairs to your home if the leak causes damage.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

Fortunately, there are a few prevention steps you can take to prevent the freezing of your pipes and subsequent water damage. These steps include draining the water from pipes that may freeze such as a sprinkler line, and disconnecting any hoses from your home. You may also want to close any indoor valves that supply water to outdoor lines. If the weather is especially cold you may want to let your faucets drip a little as moving water is less likely to freeze. It’s also a good idea to keep your home’s temperature above 55 degrees.

When a hard freeze occurs, the water in your pipes can freeze and cause some damage to your home. A professional can help with any repairs and cleanup you may need. If you know that the temperature is likely to get to freezing point, you may be able to take some steps to protect your pipes.

Why Are Dehumidifiers Important?

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Drying out flood damaged homes takes more than just clever tools and equipment.

Drying out flood damaged homes takes more than just clever tools and equipment. You need an expert restoration team, with high-level skills and knowledge of the most efficient techniques. This is what SERVPRO of Fairfield County can offer you if flooding has recently hit your property. We have access to state of the art drying machines, but we also know how to maximize their power.

Dehumidifiers are one of the most important drying tools when it comes to repairing flood damage in Columbus. It extracts the moisture from of the air and returns it to dry air. This is an essential part of the restoration process because flooding does not just leave its mark in standing water. For successful repairs, all moisture has to be eliminated, whether it is in the air, on the ground, or caught in soft furnishings.

Keep reading to learn more about how SERVPRO sets up dehumidifiers and gets the drying process started quickly.

Type Of Materials
The first thing that our SERVPRO technicians do is carry out an inspection. They enter the flood-damaged area and determine the extent of the damage. Before dehumidifiers can be set up, they first need to know what kind of materials need drying. Porous items (curtains, sofas, carpets, wood, etc.) are the hardest to restore. If a lot of porous items are wet, a longer drying period is required.

On the other hand, if wet materials are non-porous (metal, plastic), the drying period will be quicker and fewer dehumidifiers may be used. Most homes contain a mixture of the two, which means that technicians have to find a careful balance. Too many dehumidifiers can cause the air to become overly dry. This may damage softer materials like wood. Often, air movers are combined with dehumidifiers to prevent this from happening.

Putting Together A Plan
For all of these reasons, it is necessary for flood repair teams to think very carefully about how they set up drying equipment. To homeowners, it may appear arbitrary, but many precise calculations are involved. For instance, to determine how many dehumidifiers are needed and of what size, the following information must be gathered:
- Size of the flooded area (in feet)
- Type of flood damage (based on porosity)
- Type of dehumidifying technology available
- Average amount of water to be removed per day (in pints)

Choosing The Right Experts For The Job
So, you can start to see why flood damage restoration is such a complex task, even if the damage is modest. You should seek the help of a professional company like SERVPRO of Fairfield County. We are a locally based service, so our technicians are perfectly placed to respond to emergencies. Call us 24/7 at (740) 756-7003.

Avoid a Toilet Overflow

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Overflowing toilets are every homeowner's worst nightmare. The mess and odors can be extremely stressful and overwhelming. That is why SERVPRO of Fairfield County is here to help!

A toilet overflow usually occurs when a blockage prevents water and waste from flushing down the toilet drain.  This backup prevents water and waste from flowing down the drain and causes your toilet overflowing.  As your toilet backs up, clean water and waste will overflow the toilet bowl.  If not cleaned up quickly, it may cause extensive water damage to your bathroom floor or even leak through the ceiling below.  Other common causes of overflowing toilets are sewage backups, septic tank issues, low flow toilets and malfunctioning plumbing.

Keep Your Toilet from Overflowing:

• Shop towels, hunks of hair, cat litter, and other products can clog the toilet
• Even toilet paper can clog a toilet if there is too much of it
• Flush in large batches if there is large amount of material
• Low-flow toilets save water and try patience – hold the handle down for a couple of extra seconds to make sure that there is enough water
• If the water in the toilet bowl is high, use a plunger to clear the drain
• Don't wait until the water is up to the bowl's rim – the water will have nowhere to go except the floor
• If a plunger doesn't work, call a plumber

If your home or business has water damage from toilet overflow, call SERVPRO of Fairfield County at (740) 756-7003. We are ready 24/7 to make your damage “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage Facts

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

Unfortunately, you may be here because you have or have experienced water damage in your home. Well, SERVPRO of Fairfield County is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year for your water cleanup and restoration needs. The following list shows a timeline of the effects water can have on a structure:

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 1-2:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to crack and swell.
• 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 risk to occupants.

SERVPRO of Fairfield County can assist you with your insurance claim. Our water certified administrative team works closely with your insurance provider as our trained and certified technicians work diligently to return your home to pre-water conditions.  Our technicians are credited on IICRC principles which brings a peace of mind to homeowners in water cleanup and restoration situation.

Do you have water damage?

Our Team at SERVPRO of Fairfield County is here to answer and assist you with your water damage. Call us Today at (740) 756-7003

Avoid Water Damage From a Broken Water Heater

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from a broken water heater can ruin a home quickly. Fortunately, before they break, these appliances give off warning signs their service life is coming to an end.

Homeowners can avoid water damage from their hot water tank if they pay attention to some of the most common issues that arise before failure, such as:

• There is only cold water emitted from the tap.
• The water gets warm but never hot and goes cold quickly.
• The water heater rumbles or knocks
• The hot water has a muddy look from the tap.
• The water from the tank appears to be rusty.
• You notice a metallic smell or taste, especially when taking a shower or bath.
• There is noticeable water leaking from the water heater.
• Your water has a metallic smell or taste.
• Water is leaking around your water heater.

Expect a Large Amount of Water

A small water tank holds on average around 50 to 60 gallons of water; larger residential sizes run 80-gallons or more. Now, imagine that water on your floor. When the location of the tank is in an upper story in the home, the amount of water on the floor can quickly affect the ceiling and things in lower levels of the house. 

Common Issues to Avoid

Fast extraction is necessary to limit the damage to the home. SERVPRO technicians use their detection equipment to determine if the water is within the floor joists or wall cavities, requiring additional actions such as removal of baseboards or weep holes to assist with drainage. 

At the first sign of water damage, contact SERVPRO! The technicians are available 24/7 to restore your home to its pre loss condition, "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO Tips For Subzero Temperatures

2/3/2021 (Permalink)

Modern plumbing makes it easy to access running water in your Fairfield County home. You can bathe, wash, or make iced tea with clean water straight from the faucet. However, plumbing accidents can and do happen, turning this modern-day luxury into an unexpected catastrophe. 

Whether you live in a house or a condo by the lake, freezing weather such as our record low temperatures in January, can quickly lead to water damage in Fairfield County. If you do not leave your faucets dripping when it is below 32 degrees outside, water can freeze inside the plumbing. Under-insulated or exposed pipes make the situation worse. Water expands as it freezes causing cracks and breaks in the plastic or metal pipes, sending the stopped-up water gushing into your crawl space or ceiling. 

Water damage strikes fast. Standing water causes floorboards to buckle and seeps into porous materials like sheetrock and drywall. The longer you wait to fix the problem, the more elevated the chance that wood and other structural materials begin to rot. If this ever happens in your home, we hope you call SERVPRO. We are a premier company for mitigating structural and cosmetic water damage. We have the experience and technology to determine the most efficient and cost-effective solution. 

Our experienced team of SERVPRO Technicians takes the necessary precautions to do the job safely.  It is important to scope the damage to determine the level of moisture and type of material involved, such as carpet, insulation, wood floors, and wooden baseboards. We consider the layout of a room's walls, bay windows, cabinets, and closets to determine the number of air movers to use and where to place them. The equipment's angle is essential, and if it is wrong, the air bounces off the wall instead of carrying the moisture away.  

We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster is more than just a tagline—it is our culture. We have technicians on-call and ready to respond 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If winter weather leads to water damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Fairfield County at (740) 756-7003. 

Don't Let Your Pipes Freeze!

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Now that winter is in full swing, we need to be concerned about keeping the pipes in our home WARM! In winter, a whole new list of home maintenance tasks fills our “To Do” lists. Ensuring that our homes are properly insulated is not only important for keeping energy costs down but it is a necessity for protecting our property from damage due to frozen and burst water lines.

Easily neglected and taken for granted are the pipes that supply our home with fresh running water. These pipes are often made of soft copper or PVC and are extremely vulnerable to freezing conditions. If any of your pipes are ran through a crawl space or attic they might be at an especially high risk of freezing due to a lack of insolation and by not being enclosed in climate a controlled space. An easy way to protect these pipes is by applying special pipe insulation directly to the exposed areas.

Aside from the inconvenience of running water that can be caused by frozen pipes, an even greater risk of damage exists when these pipes freeze and then burst. When water freezes inside the pipe it causes pressure to build between the blockage and closed faucet. This pressure can build so much that the line will actually rupture. A crack as small as 1/8^th inch can cause up to 250 gallons of water to flood your home in as little as 24 hours.

Mother Nature has a knack for attacking us where we are the most vulnerable and unsuspecting. If she happens to stick you with a sucker-punch, just know that SERVPRO of Fairfield County is there to help at any time in any season.

Appliance Leaks Can Cause Damage

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

If you find water on your floor in the kitchen and cannot find a leak at the sink or dishwasher the next place to check is the refrigerator.  More than likely the water-line connections to the ice maker is the source.

The water-line can come loose, the seals can age and crack, or the plastic hoses can tear or get kinked. Depending on the circumstances you may have to simply tighten the connections. If you continue to see water dripping down the line to the floor both the water line and connectors may have to be replaced.

Other places on your refrigerator to check is a blocked defrost drain, a poor connection between the water filter and the water supply, or the drain pan may have cracks or damage.

If you discover water damage of any kind, call us here at SERVPRO of Fairfield County immediately!

Water Damage Restoration Professional Products

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

When contamination exists, SERVPRO of Fairfield County uses professional water damage restoration products to return the loss environment to a pre loss condition. Competence in this area requires an awareness of the basic types of products, understanding proper product usage, and how to explain these products to customers and/or clients.

General Chemical Terminology:

1. Antimicrobial. The word antimicrobial means literally “against microbes.” An antimicrobial agent is any chemical used “against” microorganisms to prevent their development or to limit or stop their growth (examples would be fungistats and mildewstats). The word antimicrobial can sometimes refer more generally to various chemicals registered as disinfectants, germicides, fungicides, virucides, sporicides, mildewcides, or sanitizers. 

2. Disinfectants. Disinfectants and germicides are anti microbials that destroy about 99 percent of organisms they contact on surfaces where applied. They may or may not affect bacterial or fungal spores, which are usually dormant, reproductive bodies. 

3. Sanitizers. Sanitizers are used to decrease the number of microbials to acceptable levels. A product listed as a sanitizer reduces microbes to levels considered by public health authorities to be safe. Under the right conditions, however, the microbes may grow back.

4. Sterilizers. A sterilizer destroys all microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi spores. Sterilizing microbes in a water damage is generally not possible. Sterilizers can only be used on inanimate surfaces that can withstand the chemicals. Chlorine products are used as sterilizing agents.

5. Mildewstats and fungistats (known as “stats”) slow the growth of fungi on organic materials such as textiles, leather, and paper. They do not necessarily kill microbes, but prevent their further growth when used according to label directions. 

6. Biocides are chemical agents that destroy or kill living organisms (-cide meaning “kill”). For example, a “virucide” would kill or inactivate viruses. In the restoration industry, however, the term biocide is used generally to refer to any chemical agent that affects the growth of microbes like bacteria and fungi. Because of the general use of the term biocide, any particular product called a biocide may not actually “kill” microbes. 

7. Sporicides. A disinfectant that is effective in controlling bacterial or fungal spores when used according to label directions.

Tips to Keep Your Basement Dry

1/8/2020 (Permalink)

Helpful Tips To Prevent Basement Floods

Many houses in Fairfield County rely on a sump pump to keep the basement from flooding. When a big rain storm comes through, the sump pump will really be needed... and that's also the time that the power to a  neighborhood is most likely going to get knocked out, disabling the sump pump and allowing the basement to flood.

If your sump pump quits working, will you know about it before your basement floods?  Do you have a backup in place?  Does it work?  Are you sure? If you depend on a sump pump to keep your basement from flooding, it's important to have a backup system in place, just like it's important to back up the hard drive on your computer. 

It is one of those things that most people don't think about until it's too late.  If you want to protect your basement from flooding, get a backup system.  There are a few different backup systems available.

1. Secondary Electric Pump: A secondary electric pump would be a good option to keep your basement from flooding in the event that your primary sump pump failed.  The secondary pump would need to be installed a little bit higher in the sump basket than the primary pump.  The downside to installing one of these is that if the power to your house went out, the pump would be useless.

2. Battery Back Up: By far, the most common type of backup is a battery powered system.  This consists of a big heavy battery that's about the size and shape of a car battery, as well as a backup sump pump that sits in the sump basket a little bit higher than the primary pump.  This system will save your basement from flooding if your sump pump fails or your power goes out.

3. Hydraulic Pump: Another backup option for your sump basket is to install a pump that is powered by the municipal water pressure coming in to your home.  The nice thing about hydraulic pumps is that you don't have to worry about keeping a battery charged all the time, and if you have an extended power outage, you won't have to worry about the pump failing.

4. High Level Alarm: No matter what type of system you have installed, it's a good idea to have a high level alarm installed in your sump basket.  These alarms will sound off if the water level in your sump basket gets too high. If you don't have a backup system in place, these alarms will at least tell you that you have a problem and you need to jump in to action.

In the event you experience a flood call SERVPRO of Fairfield County at (740) 756-7003.

Do You Have Questions About Basement Flooding?

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

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 Fairfield County 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 – 740-756-7003

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 Fairfield County 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, 740-756-7003

We're Faster to Any Size Disaster

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fairfield County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services.

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 Fairfield County 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 at 740-756-7003

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 bio-hazard 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 bio-hazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Fairfield County

SERVPRO of Fairfield County 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.

The 3 Categories of Water Damage

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Category 1: "Clean Water"

It is from a clean source such as a leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

Example:

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line. If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3.
  
  

Category 2: "Gray Water"

It is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. 

Examples include:

• Washing machine overflow.
  
  
• Toilet overflow with some urine, but not feces.
  
  
• Dishwasher overflow.

May contain bacteria and viruses and can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated.

Category 3: "Black Water"

It is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death, if ingested because of chemicals and microbes. Any contact should be avoided. 

Examples include:

• Flooding from rivers or streams from sewer backup.
  
  
• Water from beyond the toilet trap.
  
  
• Water from the toilet bowl with feces.
  
  
• Standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

Cleanup must not be taken lightly. Serious long-term health issues to adults, children and even pets may occur due to bacteria, viruses and even parasites. Don't delay. Take immediate action. 

If You See Signs of Water Damage, Call Us at 740-756-7003!

After An Overhead Leak, Water Extraction Equipment Pulls Moisture From Every Level Of Your House

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

Damaging water typically comes from ground-level flooding or pipes that burst open somewhere in your Reading residence. Rain can also come in through opened spots in the roof or torn vents. New home construction also might call for placing the water heater overhead to save space, especially when a basement is considered too small. Any of these and other situations can let water ruin your home's interior from the top downward.

When mitigating water-soaked homes, using a variety of water extraction equipment ensures our customers of a thorough job. These different machines and tools include those for measuring the amount of moisture in both materials and the air, forcing the moisture to behave in more beneficial ways, and capturing mechanisms, among others.

We complement our extensive equipment with intensive training. Our skilled mitigation and restoration specialists earn certificates from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), and we quickly gain experience in extracting water from a diverse assortment of homes and businesses.

To determine the places affected by water, we use infrared cameras that reveal the temperature differences between dry and damp materials. Knowing the places that need our attention immediately, we can place air movers in the most effective locations and direct them so that air currents steadily pull moisture out of these materials.

Then, to extract the moisture from the almost saturated air, we use desiccant machines. As air passes through these, the moisture gets trapped so that the air exiting is completely dry. This now-dry air can again absorb moisture that evaporated into the air after being drawn out of drywall, carpeting, and other parts of your home.

Water also becomes trapped inside the walls and above the ceilings of rooms and hallways when its source is located overhead. SERVPRO gets these places dry again, too, after extracting the moisture. The same hole we use to let the water drain lets us use flexible tubing to force dry air into the wall or ceiling's space. We make sure that everything gets dry before damage can increase and spread.

SERVPRO of Fairfield County wants you to know you can rely on us, no matter how large or small your water extraction needs. We also have submersible pumps for pulling water from enclosed areas like crawlspaces and basements, and odor control machinery that eliminates offensive odors at their source. Call us at (740) 756-7003 to have mitigation specialists restore your residence.

Water Damaged Equipment And Inventory

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

We store supplies, and your paperwork either in a dry area of your building or offsite if water damage is pervasive

Some Fairfield County businesses survive water damage with only minor issues. Other damages risk the ruining of specialized machinery and extensive stores of raw materials and finished products. Finding a restoration company that is willing to learn about the challenges your industry faces from water damage is the key to recovery.

Your family business boasts several generations of satisfied customers, and you now need help to keep water damage from destroying this history and disappointing clients. A water main burst and gallons of water threaten to ruin your machines and your extensive inventory. Our fast-acting team of water damage experts commits to walking you through every step of the process from waterlogged to dry and restored for both the structure and contents of your shop.

SERVPRO crews arrive to assess the situation and plan for the recovery as soon as possible. We outfit our vehicles with truck-mounted pumps and water extractors, allowing our technicians to begin water removal immediately, even if the power is off. Your equipment poses a risk of electric shock until the area dries, so our ability to evacuate the water without using your power sources is crucial.

Advanced training in material management supports the ability of our crews to pack out your inventory quickly and with an accurate listing that identifies what we moved. We store supplies, and your paperwork either in a dry area of your building or offsite if water damage is pervasive. Throughout the process, we maintain an evidence chain so you can reconstruct customer orders and provide documentation for your insurance company. Our training in drying technologies helps us advise which materials respond to drying and what items may need to be discarded.

Electronic and other equipment needs expert evaluation before it can be cleared for future operation. SERVPRO works with professionals who are trained to determine whether and how water damaged equipment specific to your industry can be dried successfully. We then take all steps necessary to reach that result.

While decisions are reached on your inventory and equipment, other members of the SERVPRO team work to dry out the structure of your business. Air movers and dehumidifiers achieve the drying goals after the standing water is removed, with constant moisture monitoring guiding the duration.

The technicians from SERVPRO of Fairfield County work persistently to restore your business after unexpected water damage. 

Understanding the Three Categories of Water

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Can you tell what kind of water this is? Answer: Black

When dealing with water damage in your home or place of business, there are different types, or classifications of water that we can use.  Using this classification system, we can determine what health risks are associated with the water, and properly prepare bringing with us all necessary safety equipment and uniforms.  In this blog article we are going to focus on three types: Clean, Gray, and Black water. 

Clean Water: This is water that does not contain contaminants. It includes broken water lines, malfunctioning appliances, toilets holding tanks, snow melt and rainwater. Overtime however, clean water can progress and become gray water within 48 hours, if left untreated.

Gray Water: Gray water does contain slight chemical or biological contaminants, and may pose a health risk. Gray water can discharge from dishwashers, washing machines, sinks, showers, aquariums and waterbeds, or come from a clean water source that leaked through a ceiling. It can also be clean water that was left untreated (and became gray water). Gray water can also progress to the next stage (Black Water) if left untreated within 48 hours.

Black Water: This water is a health risk as it is highly contaminated. Black water is presumed to contain multiple potentially harmful contaminants including fungi, bacteria, chemicals, viruses, and more. Black Water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding, or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be treated by a trained and certified professional.

For any type of water damage, it is always best to treat it quickly so as to avoid further contamination and risk mold growth. There can be many dangers associated with attempting to clean water damage on your own.  If ever you spot any type of water in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Fairfield County.  We are faster to any size disaster and will have our highly trained team over to your house or place of business within the hour!  Remember, its best to not wade into any unknown water source without the proper protection.  Give us a call 24/7 at (740) 756-7003

SERVPRO of Fairfield County is an IICRC certified firm.

The Top 5 Reasons to Choose SERVPRO of Fairfield County for Water Damage Clean Up

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Top 5 Reasons to Choose SERVPRO of Fairfield County for Water Damage Restoration Service

With the Summer season upon us, many homes and businesses will be the unlikely victims of water damage. Some may experience flooding in low lying areas while others may experience leaky roofs or windows or flooded basements.

While there are many ways for water to creep into your home, there’s one sure choice when it comes to choosing someone to remove it. With one call to SERVPRO of Fairfield County at any time and any day, they can be at your home and business removing the water and restoring any damage that it may have caused.

Why is SERVPRO of Fairfield County the best choice in the Indianapolis area when it comes to water damage restoration? Here are the top five reasons why you should give them a call the next time you experience water damage:

#1 IICRC Certified Professionals

The IICRC is the leading, independent, non-profit, certification and standard-setting body in the cleaning, inspection, and restoration industry. When choosing a water damage, mold remediation, and/or fire and smoke restoration company, be sure to ask if they are IICRC certified.

At SERVPRO of Fairfield County, the team holds IICRC certifications in water removal technician (WRT), applied structural drying (AST), mold remediation technician, and lead paint remediation. The team also participates in ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility.

#2 Ready for Any Emergency 24/7

A disaster can strike at any time and any day which is why SERVPRO of Fairfield County is ready to answer your call 24/7. With water damage, time is of the essence and it’s important to start the process of removing the water quickly before it can cause further damage or lead to mold growth. SERVPRO of Fairfield County realizes that every water damage situation is an emergency which is why they are ready to help out whether it’s day or night.

#3 Known and Trusted for Over 50 Years

SERVPRO has been around for over 50 years. That’s 50 years of industry experience and know-how in the fire and water cleanup and restoration industry. When you call SERVPRO of Fairfield County you can trust that they have the skills and the expertise to handle any emergency no matter how big or how small. There are not many fire and water restoration companies that can say they’ve been around as long.

#4 Advanced Equipment, Treatments and Techniques

With that 50 years of experience comes 50 years of learning the best techniques and the right treatments to cleaning and restoring business and homes from fire and water damage. Along with the best treatments and techniques come some of the most advanced equipment in the industry. Trust and reliability and excellent results come from 50 years of experience dealing with every disaster imaginable.

#5 Experts at More Than Just Water Damage

Many times, water damage isn’t the only thing that a homeowner or business owner is experiencing. If the water damage has been happening over a period of time, there could be underlying mold damage.If a home or business experience a fire, there could be water damage from the fire department and/or sprinkler system. If the water isn’t removed completely, there could be water damage and mold growth. Luckily, SERVPRO of Fairfield County can handle all of those quickly and professionally.

Call the Experts for Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration

If you should, unfortunately, experience water damage to your business or home, call the experts at SERVPRO of Fairfield County. They have the expertise, the knowledge, the equipment, and the know-how to remove the water and restore your home or business. Contact SERVPRO of Fairfield County online or call us at 740-756-7003.

Water Damage Restoration Service Professionals

7/13/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration Professionals

If you are looking for professionals who have the knowledge and expertise to restore your home and property after it has suffered water damage, then you call SERVPRO of Fairfield County.

The water damage restoration professionals of SERVPRO of Fairfield County service businesses and homes that have suffered water damage around the Fairfield County area including Lancaster, Pickerington, and beyond.

If you’ve had a pipe burst or a leaky roof or a toilet or tub that has overflowed, call SERVPRO of Fairfield County to clean up the mess and restore your home as if nothing ever happened.

When to Call Water Damage Restoration Professionals

Water damage to a business or home can be caused in many ways. Heavy storms can reveal roof leaks and foundation cracks that let the water inside. During the winter months, pipes exposed to cold temperatures can freeze and burst.

Toilets, sinks, dishwashers, and clothes washers can slowly leak behind walls, under floors, and inside cabinets. Sewers can back up into basements and through the drains on lower levels of homes.

As you can see, there are many ways water can get into your home and damage it. While one may think that drinking water or rainwater isn’t as damaging as sewer water or black water, that’s not really the case.

Will Clean Water Damage My Home?

While sewer water or black water as is it defined can quickly lead to mold growth in a home, clean water can also lead to dangerous mold growth. Black water contains lots of dirty bacteria that can quickly promote mold growth by itself.

Clean water can cause mold spores that are naturally present in air and dust can also lead to mold growth. The dangers in clean water leading to mold growth are that clean water can easily go unseen in a home due to the lack of odor when compared to black water.

Clean water or gray water which is rainwater, can leak into a home’s attic or walls or crawl spaces and linger without being spotted. This water can then lead to mold spores activating and growing in these unseen areas. It’s not until the mold spreads to visible parts of the home or causes a musty odor that it is finally found. By that time, the damage caused by the mold can be quite extensive.

Look for the Signs of Water Damage and Call the Experts Right Away

Whenever it rains, it’s always a good idea to check around your home for any leaks. Check the external walls, the ceilings and around windows. If you have a basement or crawlspace, check it for any water entering into your home. Always check around sinks, tubs, showers, and washers for sitting water or even the smallest of leaks. It doesn’t take much water to cause damage to a home.

The quicker you spot a leak or water in your home, the quicker you can call water damage restoration experts like those at SERVPRO of Fairfield County to stop the damage and restore your home.  

SERVPRO of Fairfield County has the experience, expertise, and tools to properly and effectively remove the water and mold damage and restore your home as if nothing ever happened.

Water Everywhere

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

Bowed Wood Floor

This SERVPRO loss occurred in an unoccupied home and was caused by lack of attention from a property manager

Due to forecasted freezing temperatures, the property manager was trying to do preventative maintenance by running water through the lines to prevent frozen pipes.

Unfortunately, he did not monitor the sink in which the water was flowing, and the basin overflowed causing water to run under the flooring.

The water ran long enough that eventually it caused the wood flooring to begin to bow and then mold started to grow on the subfloor.

It was also discovered that enough water had spilled out of the sink that the ceiling of the bedroom directly below had standing water above the drywall.

SERVPRO tip, always keep your eyes on running water, especially in the home!

Water Damaged Basements

3/26/2018 (Permalink)

The potential is there for mold infestation and eventually, structural damage unless the water gets drained, and the air moisture levels brought down.

Water in the crawl space under a home usually goes ignored until it goes away. A damp basement also goes ignored until puddles start to form in the low spots and stored property begins to absorb the excess water. Both attitudes can have long-term, adverse effects.

SERVPRO knows that a wet basement or crawl space is more than just an annoyance to a home. The potential is there for mold and eventually, structural damage unless the water gets drained, and the air moisture levels brought down to normal levels.

Our technicians can get into most crawl spaces and remove standing water using various types of sump pumps. In small spaces, they can push in lengths of hose to efficiently draw water out as well. Basements are drained of standing water in just a few hours using one of the portable pumps or pumping trucks in our equipment inventory.

With the water removed, one of our inspectors checks the air content using special moisture meters. If the humidity is too high, technicians deploy dehumidifiers to lower the moisture percentage in the air. These machines draw as much as 25 gallons of water from the air per day and clear out most basements in two or three days. After we remove the water from your basement and lower the moisture content, we highly recommend two additional services: encapsulate your crawl space and waterproof the cinder block foundation walls.

Encapsulation simply means installing a water vapor barrier. Our technicians use high-quality, polyethylene sheets that are reinforced with a polyester mesh to seal off the floors and walls from bleeding moisture into the crawl space. We secure the sheets in place using two-sided, foundation tape or a polyurethane caulk. Since most crawl spaces have a dirt floor, polyethylene sheets are a very efficient and low-cost method to prevent further moisture intrusion and reduces the risk of mold infestation as well.

Waterproofing the foundation walls serves the same purpose as encapsulation, but is more efficient for basement and areas larger than the normal sized crawl space. Technicians fill all cracks and holes with hydraulic cement to seal them and then apply a waterproof coating of masonry cement to the inside of the basement walls. This coating prevents further water intrusion in most cases. Additional protection is gained by digging around the outside of the foundation walls and applying a thick coating of liquid rubber. This inventory product is designed to waterproof foundations even in extreme situations and provides a dry basement in all but the absolute worst disasters.

SERVPRO of Fairfield County has decades of experience in Idaho when it comes to keeping your basement dry. We understand that it is essential to the overall support structure of your home and use every skill and equipment item in our inventory to provide a safe environment for you and your family. If you need our help, call today at (740) 756-7003

Gutters Can Cause Flooding In Your Basement

7/5/2017 (Permalink)

Clogged Gutters can be Hazardous To Your Home

Gutters Can Cause Flooding In Your Basement

One of the biggest fears as a homeowner with a basement is your basement flooding whenever it rains. A valid and legitimate fear, this situation causes a myriad of repairs. All sorts of damage including ruined flooring and carpeting, rotted drywall, destroyed furniture, and the worst of all, mold growth can occur. These repairs can be time-consuming and costly, and your basement can even flood in dry weather.

Issues with your foundation drainage is a big cause for a flooded basement and flood damage in your home. However, the main reason for water in your basement is overflowing gutters. It is critical to keep your gutters clean to prevent water from seeping into your basement and causing floods. Quality gutter guards and even using an expert to clean your gutters out routinely keeps debris and leaves out of the gutters so they can function properly.

When your gutters do cause flooding in your basement, it can be quite overwhelming. You need to have professionals, such as SERVPRO, come to your home to help you get all the water out and repair the damages.

When your gutters are clogged with debris, the water has nowhere to go. It overflows over the gutters to the ground next to your house, only a couple feet from the foundation. As the ground is settling and moving, it stresses the foundation of your home which causes cracking, letting water enter your home. Hydrostatic pressure might force water in through the concrete. The main solution is to keep your gutters clean.

Flooded basements create not only a lot of possible damage but plenty of stress for you as well. At SERVPRO, we understand this, so we move quickly to get to your home after you reach out to us. We have the professional and industrial equipment to get all the standing water out of your home and use fans and dehumidifiers to finish the drying process. We have moisture meters to find any hidden water or mold growth as well.

When SERVPRO of Fairfield County is finished restoring your home after your basement floods, it is like it never happened. Just give us a call at (740) 756-7003 so we can get started as soon as possible.

Water Damage and Fine Wood Furniture

6/21/2017 (Permalink)

Fine Wood Furniture

Water Damage And Wood Furniture

Water damage can strike any household at any time. There are various causes of water damage, including a burst pipe, an overflowing tub, a leak or a broken appliance. Water can also enter your home from outside sources such as a damaged water main, garden run-off or severe weather. When water leaks or soaks in, it has the potential to cause untold damage to your home and belongings. That is why it is important to contact SERVPRO for help when dealing with unwanted water in your home - “We’re faster to any size disaster.”

There is no doubt that wooden furniture can suffer if there is water damage to your Fairfield County home. That is bad news for your antique rocker, favorite family dining table or that wooden chest of drawers you inherited from your beloved aunt. The main cause for concern when it comes to wooden furniture is that water can cause it to warp. Wicking up water can also cause swelling of furniture joints and cause them to come unstuck or suffer other structural damage. There is also the risk of water spots or stains on the surface of the item. Chairs, tables, and other items may also crack or warp as they dry.

Our IICRC-experts are experienced in creating the optimum drying conditions for wood furniture. While you are waiting for the specialists to arrive, it is safe to use an absorbent cloth or sponge to pat furniture dry. However, we recommend that you do not wipe or rub it and that you handle it with extreme caution.

SERVPRO experts are trained to assess the damage to your furniture and liaise with furniture refinishers on your behalf if necessary. If it is possible to save the item we set up a drying area for it. The key to getting a great result when drying wood furniture is to dry it slowly and avoid direct heat. We also have wood cleaning products for the removal of minor stains.

Our technicians are equipped with air movers, box fans, and dehumidifiers to help dry out your items. Once we get the temperature to a stable 70-90 degrees F, we use portable low grain dehumidifiers to bring down the humidity around your furniture. Meanwhile, air movers direct air around, over and under the item to increase the rate of evaporation and encourage the drying process.

Do not let water permanently warp your furniture. Call SERVPRO of Fairfield County today at (740) 756-7003 for drying solutions. 

Check Your Washing Machine Hoses Lately?

5/19/2017 (Permalink)

“Each washing machine comes with three hoses to add total functionality to the appliance: hot water, cold water and a drain. This means there are three opportunities for your otherwise reliable appliance to suddenly break apart and leak water. If you find water in the laundry room, it’s worth checking to see if any of your washing machine hoses are leaking.

First and foremost, pull out the washing machine. You need to check all three hoses to see if there is a leak in any of them, but don’t disconnect any tubes. Instead, start a short wash and watch each of the hoses as it goes through the wash and rinse cycles. When starting the drain cycle, keep an eye on the drain hose.”

For more information, please continue reading at: http://www.homestructions.com/general/check-washing-machine-hose/

Water Damage...It Can Be Sneaky

4/14/2017 (Permalink)

There are many areas inside and outside your home that can cause water damage. 

According to State Farm Insurance, here are a few inside sources:

“•Look for signs of existing leaks on ceilings, walls, floors and near appliances that use water. •Methods to avoid damage due to freezing include insulating exposed pipes, utilizing heat tape in areas which can’t be insulated, and running a trickle of water out of faucets when the business is closed and the water is not being used during periods of freezing or below freezing temperatures. •Avoid putting any solids or grease down your drains, and use screens on your drains to catch solids before they enter the plumbing system. •Ensure hose connections are secure and water supply lines are not brittle or worn for appliances such as washing machines and ice makers. •Apply fresh caulk around all fixtures and exterior openings such as doors, windows and fixtures. •It is recommended that all appliances and mechanicals be regularly serviced by licensed contractors to ensure there are no leaks, wear and tear or blockages which may cause water damage”

Please continue reading this entire article at: https://static1.st8fm.com/en_US/content_pages/1/pdf/us/Loss%20Control%20for%20Business.pdf

When the unthinkable Happens

3/16/2017 (Permalink)

Whether you live on the coast, near a lake, or riverside, the flood will find you. And when it does, it can leave you with years’ worth of damage, not to mention credit card bills and bankruptcy.

Various news stories of commercial and residential properties drowning in murky waters, or sitting empty a year later look abandoned and still reeking with remnants of saturated insulation and mold hanging from the beams, will inject fear into any property owner.

That’s when you call the professionals at SERVPRO® of Fairfield County to make sure the situation is handled so there are no surprises and no adverse effects on the occupants’ health or safety.

SERVPRO® Cleans Up the Mess after a Flood

Homeowners tell us there is no greater devastation than seeing the house they’ve made a home destroyed by a quick-moving flood. The fact that the flood could have been caused by something as innocuous as a leaking pipe behind the washing machine makes the destruction seem even more senseless. In addition, water renders some materials more susceptible to rot. These are just a few of the many aftereffects of a flood. All of our SERVPRO® technicians have been properly trained to professionally clean up the mess after a flood.

SERVPRO® of Fairfield County Should Be On Speed-Dial

The SERVPRO® of Fairfield County team has been trained to respond, swiftly and knowledgeably.

Back in the day (as they say), houses were made of straw, stone, or brick. If they weren’t blown down or burned up, they were abandoned by the time the children were grown. Today, the American home is our castle. It reflects our lives, interests, and loves, travels, hopes, memories and the most important people we share it with.

Let’s hope you are not victim of a home-destroying event. But if it happens, don’t panic. Keep our number handy 740-756-7003. We’re here 24/7 to answer the call and make your loss “Like it never even happened.”

Water Damage Professionals

3/14/2017 (Permalink)

How to Set Up Dehumidifiers When Repairing Flood Damage

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

How To Set Up Dehumidifiers When Repairing Flood Damage In Fairfield County

Dehumidifiers And Flood Damage

Drying out flood damaged homes takes more than just clever tools and equipment. You need an expert restoration team, with high-level skills and knowledge of the most efficient techniques. This is what SERVPRO can offer you if flooding has recently hit your property. We have access to state of the art drying machines, but we also know how to maximize their power.

Dehumidifiers are one of the most important drying tools when it comes to repairing flood damage in Reynoldsburg. It extracts the moisture from of the air and returns it to dry air. This is an essential part of the restoration process because flooding does not just leave its mark in standing water. For successful repairs, all moisture has to be eliminated, whether it is in the air, on the ground, or caught in soft furnishings.

Keep reading to learn more about how SERVPRO sets up dehumidifiers and gets the drying process started quickly.

Type Of Materials
The first thing that the SERVPRO technicians do is carry out an inspection. They enter the flood-damaged area and determine the extent of the damage. Before dehumidifiers can be set up, they first need to know what kind of materials need drying. Porous items (curtains, sofas, carpets, wood, etc.) are the hardest to restore. If a lot of porous items are wet, a longer drying period is required.

On the other hand, if wet materials are non-porous (metal, plastic), the drying period will be quicker and fewer dehumidifiers may be used. Most homes contain a mixture of the two, which means that technicians have to find a careful balance. Too many dehumidifiers can cause the air to become overly dry. This may damage softer materials like wood. Often, air movers are combined with dehumidifiers to prevent this from happening.

Putting Together A Plan
For all of these reasons, it is necessary for flood repair teams to think very carefully about how they set up drying equipment. To homeowners, it may appear arbitrary, but many precise calculations are involved. For instance, to determine how many dehumidifiers are needed and of what size, the following information must be gathered:
- Size of the flooded area (in feet)
- Type of flood damage (based on porosity)
- Type of dehumidifying technology available
- Average amount of water to be removed per day (in pints)

Choosing The Right Experts For The Job
So, you can start to see why flood damage restoration is such a complex task, even if the damage is modest. You should seek the help of a professional company like SERVPRO of Fairfield County We are a locally based service, so our technicians are perfectly placed to respond to emergencies. Call us 24/7 at 740-756-7003

Really Good Information

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fairfield County 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 Fairfield County 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 – 740-756-7003

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 Fairfield County

SERVPRO of Fairfield County 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.

Servicing Pickerington

3/2/2017 (Permalink)

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 Pickerington 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 -740-756-7003

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 Fairfield County 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 740-756-7003

Servicing Fairfield County

3/2/2017 (Permalink)

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 - 740-756-7003

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 Fairfield County 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 740-756-7003

Faster to your water damage

9/19/2016 (Permalink)

Title: Faster to your Fairfield County Water Damage Event

Category: Water Damage

Photo Caption: SERVPRO of Fairfield County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Fairfield County

Body:

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Fairfield County 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 Fairfield County 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 – 740-756-7003

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 Fairfield County

SERVPRO of Fairfield County 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.

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

5/16/2016 (Permalink)

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 Fairfield County 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 - 740-756-7003

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 Fairfield County 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

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 

What a weird winter!!

2/25/2016 (Permalink)

It's snowing......yesterday it was raining....this has been a really weird winter....agreed?