Clean Your Rain Gutters

5/2/2024 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz, we are here to help!

Unclogging gutters and rain spouts are an important part of home maintenance in the fall and spring. It’s an easy job to do yourself, but if you are afraid of heights or doubt your ability to get it done, don’t forget your friends here at SERVPRO of Lansdale. We can help you in both cleaning and unclogging your gutters, which help to keep you from dealing with damage from water during the wet months.

You risk experiencing water damage to your roof, basement and crawl space if gutters and rain spouts are not cleaned out regularly. So how often should you clean out your rain gutters? It’s going to be important to take care of this task before the rainy season hits in the spring, summer and into the fall, for sure, so it is probably a good idea to complete this task at least three times a year, ahead of wet and windy weather. Debris will build up in your gutters at those times, preventing water from draining down and out, and if the gutters can’t channel the water when it rains, it ends up pooling and backing up into your walls and attic, or near your foundation and in your basement.

You will want to use step ladders on solid level ground and try to schedule cleaning when the weather has been dry for a few days. This way, the debris, leaves and pine needles won’t be as soaked and will be much easier to remove. Remove larger debris and then follow that up with a powerful hose that washes everything else down towards the downspout. You will also want to clean the gutter filter screens and make sure there are no clogs in your downspout. If these tasks seem like more than you want to handle alone, call us!

Contact us here at SERVPRO Team Lutz for any water damage caused by your rain gutters. Gutter cleaning and unclogging rain spouts is an easy regular home maintenance fix. Do your family a favor by preventing water damage to your home or business with regularly cleaning your rain gutters

Navigating the Waters: What to Know About Water Damages

5/1/2024 (Permalink)

Call us at 215-368-4110!

Water, essential for life, can also be a source of significant damage when it infiltrates places it shouldn't. From burst pipes to natural disasters, water damage can wreak havoc on homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Understanding the nuances of water damage is crucial for prevention, mitigation, and recovery. In this blog, we'll delve into what you need to know about water damages.

Types of Water Damage
Understanding the types of water damage helps in assessing the severity of the situation and determining appropriate mitigation measures:

Clean Water (Category 1): Water from a clean source like a broken water supply line, faucet, or rainfall. While initially safe, it can become contaminated if left untreated.

Gray Water (Category 2): Slightly contaminated water from sources like dishwashers, washing machines, or clean toilets with urine. Exposure can cause discomfort or sickness.

Black Water (Category 3): Highly contaminated water containing bacteria, sewage, and other toxins from sources like sewage backups, flooding from rivers or streams, or stagnant water. Contact can lead to severe illness or even death.

Immediate Actions After Water Damage
Prompt action is crucial to minimize the impact of water damage:

Ensure Safety: Before entering a water-damaged area, ensure it's safe to do so. Turn off electricity and gas if necessary, and be cautious of structural damage.

Mitigate Further Damage: Stop the water source if possible and remove excess water using pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or towels. Promptly drying affected areas helps prevent mold growth and structural weakening.

Document the Damage: Take photographs or videos of the water damage for insurance claims. Keep records of all communication with insurance companies and restoration professionals.
Restoration and Recovery
Restoring a property after water damage involves several steps:

Assessment: Professional restoration experts assess the extent of the damage and develop a comprehensive restoration plan.

Water Extraction and Drying: Utilizing industrial-grade equipment, water is extracted, and affected areas are thoroughly dried to prevent mold growth and further damage.

Cleanup and Sanitization: Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and belongings ensure the removal of contaminants and promote a healthy indoor environment.

Repairs and Reconstruction: Structural repairs, including replacing damaged drywall, flooring, or insulation, are conducted to restore the property to its pre-damaged condition.

Prevention Strategies
While some water damage incidents are unavoidable, implementing preventive measures can reduce the risk:

Regular Maintenance: Inspect plumbing systems, appliances, and roofing regularly for leaks or signs of deterioration.
Proper Drainage: Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to prevent water buildup around the foundation.
Temperature Control: Keep indoor temperatures consistent to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting in cold weather.
Sump Pump Installation: Install a sump pump in basements or areas prone to flooding to mitigate water damage during heavy rainfall.

Water damage can be a devastating experience, but with knowledge, preparedness, and swift action, its impact can be minimized. Understanding the types and causes of water damage, along with implementing preventive measures, is crucial for protecting homes, businesses, and communities against its destructive force. Remember, when it comes to water damage, time is of the essence—acting swiftly can make all the difference in mitigating losses and expediting recovery.

Time to Check Your Water Heater

5/14/2023 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Maintaining your hot water heater may increase the efficiency and possibly the life span. Here are a few things you can do to help. 

There is a valve located near the top of the water heater called a TPR valve. This valve will have a pipe leading away from it. Be sure to place a bucket under the pipe and shut of the power and the cold water supply, Then lift the valve to let a little of the water out and let go. If the water does not stop flowing then the valve will need to be replaced. 

Wrap the tank with and pipes. Don't forget to wrap the cold water pipes as well as this will prevent the pipes from condensation in the summer. 

Draining the tank and washing out the sediment until clear water comes out will increase the lifespan of the heater. This should be done yearly. 

Check to see if the anode rod needs to be replaced every year. 

SERVPRO Team Lutz is a professional restoration company that will always be here in your time of need. Call us at 215.368.4110!

6 Common Roof Leaks

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz at 215.368.4110!

When it comes to roof leaks, even the smallest of consistent drips can cause major water damage. This makes stopping any of these potential leaks of paramount importance. But in order to stop these leaks, you need to know where to look and what to look for. Here are the six most common spots where you may find leaks in your home.

Around the Chimney

While it may seem like your roof and chimney are one single entity, they’re actually not. They are connected using strips of flashing which covers the large gaps between the roof and chimney. This flashing often is a primary source of leaks in the home. Over time, this flashing might pull away from the brick or rust. It’s generally easy to spot this when it happens so if you have a leak and the flashing is pulled away from the brick, you’ll know where the leak is originating.

Shingles

The shingles on your roof serve many functions for your home. One way they protect your home is by ensuring the heat or cold doesn’t get into your home. Another way it protects your roof is by keeping water out which helps you avoid potentially dangerous water damage. However, as much as these shingles protect you, they can be damaged by old age or a big storm. If the shingles are damaged or missing, water may be able to seep into the underlayment and sheathing which can then cause leaks inside the home. To make sure you’re not in danger of these leaks and subsequent water damage, look for the signs of damaged shingles which include lost granules, curling or buckling shingles, or obvious missing spots.

Gutters

The gutters that stretch around your roof likely collect leaves, pine needles, and other debris as it falls from overhanging trees. This debris can clog or damage the gutters causing water to collect when it rains. The standing water can then back up in the gutters and cause leaks to occur. People failing to clean their gutters is one of the most common causes of water leaks. But there are other potential dangers. The water can freeze and that has the potential to cause many other problems. Even if you don’t expect that there are leaks, you should clean out your gutters regularly to ensure they don’t clog or become damaged.

Valleys

Unless you have a flat roof, there will probably be spots on your roof where two different planes will intersect. The line where these planes meet is commonly referred to as a valley. These valleys may be covered with flashing, rolled roofing, or some other material depending on where you live. These valleys can be potential dangers because water tends to collect in these low areas and any potential problems with its covering can allow water to seep into the house causing significant water damage.

Ice Dams

Ice dams are potential problems in cold climates in which snow that accumulates on a sloping roof melts and flows down the roof underneath the blanket of snow that insulates the roof. This causes a dam of ice to build up on the edge of the roof and catch melted snow rather than allowing it to run off as it should. This backup of water has the potential to cause major leaks in your roof and cause significant water damage in your home.

Roof Penetrations

Any objects that extend above the roof such as vents, pipes, or other penetrations have the potential to cause leaks in the roof. Most of these objects will have flashing around them to connect them to the roof so it’s important to check the flashing to ensure that there’s no rust or loose spots on or around it. As flashing is a primary source of leaks in homes, this has the potential to cause serious water damage to your home.

Leaks, even minuscule ones, have the ability to cause major water damage to your home. Most of these leaks originate from the roof and allows water to drip down into the attic or walls which can be difficult to see until it’s too late. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to be vigilant of any potential problems. If you suffer water damage in your home, call on the professionals at SERVPRO Team Lutz to remediate the problem.

Why Professional Restoration Is a Wise Choice for Water Damage in Your Home

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz at 215.368.4110!

There are certain things that every homeowner worries about at one time or another. Among these is the possibility of falling victim to a natural disaster like a fire or flood. While these circumstances always remain a possibility with the appropriate conditions, internal water emergencies are often far more likely and frequent than any more detrimental disasters.

While water damage to your home might come from several different sources, cleaning up this damage and restoring its effects is a similar process across the board. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that even moderate water emergencies can get taken care of with conventional drying techniques and that the problem is in the past. Unfortunately, without properly cleaning up water damage and drying the area thoroughly, you could be allowing worsening losses to occur.

Fortunately, our SERVPRO technicians get trained to handle all manner of water emergencies and ensure that the job gets done right. This restoration process begins with a thorough inspection of the immediate damage. We also use thermal imagery to inspect the areas that are out of the line of sight for persistent moisture, and a broader range of damage you could not initially tell was there.

Working quickly to dry the area and clean up the mess are both standard practices of our SERVPRO professionals. Once the site has gotten sufficiently dried using air movers and dehumidification equipment, a better inspection can occur with your home's structural components and building materials to ensure that they are as strong and stable as they should be. Overly damaged materials might require removal and reinstallation to complete the restoration process.

Water damage in your home might come from many potential sources, but overcoming the effects is rarely something that you should handle on your own. Even smaller-scale water damage can have severe impacts on your home if the appropriate, thorough measures do not get taken to ensure the area is cleaned and dried adequately. Trust our SERVPRO Team Lutz technicians to help you through every possible effect of water damage. You can reach us anything by calling 215.368.4110.

Sump Pump Insurance Coverage - What to Know

5/2/2023 (Permalink)

When your basement floods, give us a call at 215.368.4110!

Sump pumps can be a homeowner's best friend when it comes to keeping their basement or crawl space dry. These pumps work by removing excess water that has collected in a sump pit and pumping it out of the house. However, what happens when the sump pump fails or is unable to keep up with the water flow? This is when a homeowner may experience a sump pump water loss.

A sump pump water loss occurs when water that should have been removed by the sump pump ends up flooding the basement or crawl space. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including a power outage, mechanical failure, or overwhelming water volume. In such cases, a homeowner may be faced with extensive water damage and cleanup costs.

The good news is that many homeowner's insurance policies provide coverage for sump pump water losses. However, the extent of coverage and any exclusions will depend on the policy and the insurance company.

Coverage for sump pump water losses typically falls under the "water damage" section of a homeowner's insurance policy. This coverage may include the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property, as well as the cost of cleanup and restoration. It's important to note that some policies may have a separate deductible for water damage, which could be higher than the standard deductible.

It's also important to understand any exclusions or limitations that may apply to sump pump water losses. For example, some policies may exclude coverage for losses caused by a sump pump that was not properly maintained or installed. Others may limit coverage to a specific dollar amount or only cover certain types of damage.

To ensure adequate coverage for sump pump water losses, it's important to review your homeowner's insurance policy and speak with your insurance agent. You may want to consider adding additional coverage or increasing your coverage limits if you live in an area with a high risk of flooding or have experienced sump pump water losses in the past.

In addition to insurance coverage, there are steps homeowners can take to minimize the risk of sump pump water losses. This includes regular maintenance of the sump pump and backup power options in case of a power outage. It's also a good idea to have a plan in place for dealing with a sump pump failure or water loss, including having emergency contact information for a professional water damage restoration company.

In conclusion, sump pump water losses can be a costly and stressful experience for homeowners. However, with the right insurance coverage and preventative measures, homeowners can minimize their risk and have peace of mind knowing they are protected.

Call SERVPRO Team Lutz at 215.368.4110!

Common Toilet Issues and Solutions

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

Please call us at 215.368.4110!

Toilet overflow is a common cause of water damage in homes and commercial buildings. Toilet issues are just as common and can also lead to toilet overflow. Here are some tips to solve some toilet issues so that you can prevent toilet overflow.

1. “Phantom Flushes”
   Sometimes, you hear your toilet to refill randomly like someone had just flushed it. The cause of this is a slow leak from the tank of the bowl. The problem is most likely caused by a bad flap or flapper seat. The solution is to drain the tank and bowl and then inspect the flapper and clean the flapper seat. You should replace the flapper if it is worn out or damaged.
2. Trickling Water
   If you hear a prolonged hissing noise coming from your toilet, it might be water trickling from the supply line. To check this, inspect the refill tube and ballock or the inlet-valve assembly. The hissing sound is usually caused by water coming through the inlet valve. To solve this issue, check whether the float is sticking or needs adjusting then check the refill tube isn’t too far into the overflow tube. If neither of these solves the problem, you may need to replace the ballcock assembly.
3. Bowl Empties Slowly

This also known as a weak flush, which is a result of a clogged hole underneath the rim of the bowl. Use a curved piece of wire, such as a coat hanger wire, and gently poke into flush hole to clear out any debris. Be careful not to scratch the bowl.

4. Clogs
   These are the most common toilet problems that people have. A force-cup plunger is a very effective way to clear minor clogs. For serious clogs, use a closet auger. You would insert the end of the auger into the drain hole and then twist the handle and make sure to try to not scratch the bowl.

If you experience any toilet overflow that may have caused water damage in your property, please call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown to give you a free estimate at 215.368.4110!

Do You Know Where Your Water Shut-Off Valves Are?

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

One of the things many of us take for granted is our home, or more specifically, how our home just always "works" and doesn't fail us.

Until that unfortunate day when your home does fail you. There are many ways you might experience a breakdown in your home, but one of the most damaging is when your plumbing, piping, or water delivery system fails. Or perhaps it's not even the plumbing itself that failed, but a water-fed appliance, such as your dishwasher, washing machine, refrigerator, or even your water heater.

It is mind-boggling to see the amount of untold damage and the speed at which damage happens when a pipe or appliance breaks. Think what damage could happen when you are in the home when the failure occurs. Now think how much initial damage and secondary damage will occur if you aren't there? What will happen and how long will it go on if you are gone on for several hours or even out of town over the weekend?

Water will continue to flow through your piping and out at the point of failure until it is stopped, or turned off. Water will continue to pour into your home, damaging the room, the floor, the walls, perhaps the ceiling, and all the contents, furniture, and belongings in that room. And possibly even flowing into and damaging the next room or the floor below.

If ever a pipe bursts or a water-fed appliance fails in your home (or business), the very first step you must take is to turn off the water! This could be a localized shut-off valve, such as below a sink or behind a toilet or refrigerator or other appliance, or you may need to turn off the main water valve to your home.

Unfortunately, very few homeowners (or business owners) take the time to learn where their emergency shut-off valves are, but knowing where the valves are and how to turn them off can greatly minimize the amount of damage done to property and belongings if a pipe bursts or appliance fails. 

Turning your water off before you leave for an extended period of time such as a vacation or the weekend can seem like such a small and unlikely preparation, and yet that act alone can be the difference between avoiding disaster entirely or thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars in damage to your home or business.

Take the time to educate yourself where these shut-off valves are. Remember to shut the water off before you leave for prolonged periods of time to give yourself that extra measure of protection.

Whether you are home if it happens or not, should disaster strike and you find a burst water pipe or failed appliance has left you with a soggy mess, FIRST SHUT OFF YOUR WATER VALVE, then call on the professionals of SERVPRO of Glenview to mitigate, cleanup, and restore your home or business.

Water Removal and Drying Means a Call to SERVPRO!

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help! Call us at 215.368.4110!

A water mishap might seem simple to clean up in your home. Unfortunately, a mop and bucket or the wet/dry vacuum used to clean the garage or workshop are not likely to deliver the results needed quickly or thoroughly enough. The damage moisture, seen and unseen, can do to your dwelling requires professional intervention. Our crews are quick to respond and thorough as they work to mitigate and restore the damage water can inflict.

Floors are one of the components in your home that are most vulnerable from water damage. Advanced water removal and drying techniques mastered by our technicians in IICRC courses produce remarkable results for our residential customers. A key to the best outcome is requesting an assessment as soon as you note the damage. Our crews respond 24/7, every day of the year because water damage increases in severity the longer the wait.

Our seasoned managers and crew lead assess the damage to your house, closely inspecting the floors where the wetness tends to collect. SERVPRO® crews arrive with the equipment needed to address the damage, using pumps and extractors to remove visible water and then utilizing moisture meters to determine the extent of the water migration. We then turn to other strategies to reduce moisture to normal levels in both building materials, contents, and ambient humidity

Depending on any contamination in the water, rugs and carpeting might be removed, for cleaning and drying elsewhere or disposal. Some carpeting responds well to in-place drying, and our workers have the skills and heavy-duty weighted wand extractors to complete that task. You can rely upon SERVPRO’s expertise in deciding the needed action for your floor coverings. We have perfected the "float a carpet" technique for salvaging floor covers that our customers thought were lost.

Tile, concrete, and vinyl flooring often recover well from water damage. Laminate floors frequently require removal and replacement, but the hardwood floors you treasure can return to “Like it never even happened,” condition if SERVPRO employs methods such as drying mats, top and bottom focused air movement, and other carefully considered strategies. Removing surface sealants, drilling holes, and lifting planks to direct warm air flow can all help in the hands of professional water damage technicians. We can even enter crawlspace foundations to dry the floor joists and boards from below.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is ready to bring your floors and their coverings back from water damage caused by a range of sources. Call 215.368.4110 as soon as possible for the most successful outcome.

SERVPRO - Protect Your Family From Water Damage

5/10/2022 (Permalink)

Make sure to cover all your bases!

Owning a home is full of responsibilities. Mortgage payments, insurance policies, and landscaping are but a few of the items we need to pay attention to keep the roof over our heads. However, sometimes, we are responsible for the homes of our loved ones as well. Have you ever thought that your elderly relative may need professional help in keeping up with his or her home? It is not uncommon for an older person to be unaware of water damage on their property until it is too late. 

SERVPRO is here to help. With our Green Fleet, you can rest assured that you are receiving the benefit of formal education in water damage restoration along with the know-how from being out on the field. Our water restoration technicians (WRT) apply the latest methodologies to removing excess water from your home and restoring it to mint condition. 

The most crucial step homeowners need to take is calling our 24/7 hotline. The damage to your home worsens with every minute the water is left unattended, potentially causing buckling of wood floors, a saturation of drywall and complete loss of carpet and upholstery. Our goal is to minimize your losses and prevent future problems, such as the proliferation of mold. Depending on the severity of your event, our SERVPRO team may pick one or several tools to extract water from your home. These might include- 

-Truck mounted pump 

-Submersible pump 

-Drying mats 

-Extraction wand 

-Dehumidifiers 

Regardless of the size of the problem, SERVPRO is here to help. Even when you feel like you can handle the extraction and drying yourself, equipment available at your local hardware store could leave behind water deposits invisible to the naked eye, posing a risk for the future. 

Protect your home and your loved ones by calling a professional team when there is water damage. SERVPRO is available at 215.368.4110 and ready to spring into action. Call us and let us leave your home, "Like it never even happened." 

Do you know what is in your water?

5/5/2022 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Did you know that the water either coming into your home or from your home due to busted pipes or leaks has what we call a “category”? When it comes to handling mitigation in your home it is better to allow the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown to deal with the emergency because you have to treat the water correctly to be safe. You never know what is either in your water or what the water has passed through to create contamination.

The information below explains the main types of water damage and could help you identify the problem quickly if it ever happens to you.

Category One: Clear Water

This water is the cleanest, most non-toxic form of water damage. It is potable water, perhaps directly from the tap. It is unlikely to cause you any harm, even if you are exposed for some time. Nevertheless, even clean flooding can lead to electrical and structural faults, so it is safer for you to call in the experts for repairs. Clean water comes from things like a broken water supply line, tub or sinks overflow with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines to name a few. However, once clean water leaves the exit point, it might not remain clean after contacting other surfaces or materials. Although it is considered the "safest" of the categories, it can degrade to category 2 or 3 if left untreated.

Category Two: Gray Water 

Gray water damage is a little bit more serious and requires a speedier removal process. This is because it may contain potentially unsafe levels of chemicals, microorganisms, or dirt. Examples of Cat 2 water include, but are not limited to: overflow from dishwashers or washing machines; overflows from toilet bowls with urine; seepage due to hydrostatic pressure and broken aquariums.
If left untreated, it can quickly degrade into category 3.

Category Three: Black Water

Cat 3 water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Cat 3 water can include, but are not limited to: sewage; toilet backflows from beyond the trap; flooding from seawater, rivers or streams, ground surface water, or other contaminated water entering the indoor environment.

The team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington is skilled in the safe handling of the different categories through training and protective clothing to eliminate the risk of sickness.

Minimizing Water Damage from Flooding

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

The Federal Emergency Management Association states that flooding “is the most common and costly disaster in the United States.”

While flooding can occur any time of year, hurricane season often amplifies the risk of flooding as a result of strong storms. The Federal Emergency Management Association states that flooding “is the most common and costly disaster in the United States.” In order to decrease water damage due to flooding, FEMA recommends taking three distinct steps, “Know Your Risk”, “Insure Your Property”, and “Reduce Your Risk.” Continue reading for a list of helpful tips when it comes to protecting your home or business from flood damage that comply with FEMA’s standards. 

Preventative Measures Inside and Outside

Inside and outside of your residential or commercial property, there are steps that you can take to prevent flood damage well in advance or immediately a storm rolls in. Inside, crucial documents and objects can be secured in water-tight containers, placed in elevated locations. In this way, these important items can be kept safe from permanent damage in a flood. Critical equipment and utilities, including your property’s HVAC unit, within your home or business may benefit from being elevated about one foot off of the ground. This step can also be taken outside with outdoor air conditioning units or heat pumps in order to protect them from potentially disastrous flood damage. Finally, the simple act of clearing your gutters of debris on a regular basis can make all the difference in protecting your property from flood damage, as doing so keeps gutters from clogging and gives rainwater a route to drain properly. 

Call SERVPRO for Professional Storm Damage Restoration

It is impossible to eliminate the risk of storm damage as a result of flooding, even with preventative measures in place. Nevertheless, taking steps to minimize flood damage, such as those outlined in this blog as well as Ready.gov’s recommendations, can go a long way in preventing irreversible damage. In the event that your residential or commercial property experiences storm damage resulting from a flood this summer, know that SERVPRO of Warminster, Lansdale, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown has your back and is ready to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 215.368.4110 for immediate assistance or visit our website for more information about our storm resources, such as our Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration and Commercial Storm Damage Restoration services, as well as our Water and Storm Damage Tips.

What To Do When You Have A Leak

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Know how to handle a water leak in your home or business. Call us at 215.368.4110 to help!

WATER is a force of nature – it will always take the path of least resistance and it will keep coming until properly repaired.

Whether you are facing a sudden and large burst pipe flooding your basement, or a small drip, drip, drip that went unnoticed for a long time, water can cause untold damage to your property.

But expert help is on hand to not only stop the leak but help with the tidy up – and ensure it does not happen again.

When you find a leak, assess what type it is, as each has its own consequences of inaction.

Consider the non-damaging leak – the toilet that keeps running or the dripping tap. These are not going to cause damage to your property as the water is still draining away where it is supposed to. But water bills will go up – and even the smallest drip, running continuously 24 hours a day, will add dollars to your bill. And fixing it takes time and money.

Next is the minimal damage – you have escaped a big problem for now, but it will only get worse if not taken care of. If buried in a wall or the basement, it is easy to overlook them until a bigger repair presents itself.

And then there is significant damage demanding immediate attention – the burst pipe causing a flood which is destroying your property as you see it. There can be no delay in getting help.

When faced with a leak try to diagnose the problem – shut off all sources of water to work out where the water is coming from. Check the water meter – is it still showing running water? If so, there is a leak somewhere – and you are paying for it.

Turn off the water supply to the building, clean up the mess and get the leak fixed – and the bigger the problem the more important it is to act fast. Document any damage by taking pictures for the insurance company and work with your trusted SERVPRO to ensure the problem is fixed properly.

If You Have Water Damage In Your Home, Call The Team You Can Trust

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO provides 24 hour emergency service. Call us at 215.368.4110!

Water damage in Pennsylvania is a serious issue, especially when it is in your home. It can be caused by a number of things around the home. Plumbing problems, leaks, faulty hoses, and even damage from storms. SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is the answer to your water damage problem.

In addition to a quick response, homeowners should expect well trained and experienced professionals from SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown. Not only do we have knowledge to take care of water damage in your home, but we use the top quality equipment.

We are IICRC certified. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) creates the standards for the restoration industry and provides training and certification to restoration companies. IICRC Certified Firms have the right to display the IICRC Certified Logo. As certified technicians, we carry out all water removal and cleanup procedures following industry standards, which assures you of high quality and timely services.

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown water removal experts use state of the art technology and advanced cleanup and drying techniques. From water extraction equipment to air movers and dehumidifiers.

We are a trusted leader in the restoration industry. SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

24-Hour Emergency Service

Faster to Any-Sized Disaster

Highly Trained Restoration Technicians

A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry

Locally Owned and Operated

Advanced Restoration and Cleaning Equipment

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is the company to call. To mitigate damage to your home, call our 24/7 emergency line at 215.368.4110.

Don't Delay When Water Damage Happens

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at 215.368.4110!

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown provides water damage restoration service and we’re the kind of professional that no one wants to call.  But what’s important to remember is that when we are needed, it is important not to delay.  Moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem.  Regardless of how the moisture has entered the structure, the response should be the same:  get the home cleaned and dried quickly to ensure that there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, don’t try to handle it on your own.  Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill.  A water damage restoration company like SERVPRO not only has the training and tools to eliminate the moisture; they have the necessary equipment and technology their disposal.

This includes powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live in, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.

So if you find yourself with water damage, don’t be the person with the beach towels and the box fans.  Get professional help.  Call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown  at 215.368.4110.  Working to make it…”Like it never even happened.”

Preventative Measures To Avoid Water Damage

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!!!

We all know that prevention is the best medicine, but floods can happen at any moment from any number of causes. By completing regularly scheduled home maintenance and keeping an eye out for common warning signs, you can minimize the chances of a flood. However, nothing can give you a 100% guarantee of never having a flood. In that case, preparation is the best way to minimize water damage.

First, it’s a good idea to know your flood risk. Are you in a potential flood zone? Is your yard sloped away from your foundation? Knowledge is power so the more you know about how your home might flood, the more steps you can take to prevent it or minimize damage from it.

Using waterproof building materials is a great way to reduce damage from flooding and there are waterproof sealants and paints that can be applied to existing structures. In particular, there are many protective coatings for block or poured concrete walls which are common in basements.

Keep your valuables and irreplaceable items such as photo albums, yearbooks, and important documents on high shelves. Do the same with chemicals and paints. If they leak into flood waters, they could cause additional damage. Any items put away for storage should be in air and water-tight plastic containers. Never leave boxes or items on the floor; instead, invest in raised shelving units.

It may also be a good idea to raise appliances and electronics off the ground. Get wires and power strips out from behind your tv stand and organize them in a way that keeps them out of the flood danger zone. Put washing machines and dryers on cinder blocks or sections of lumber to reduce the chances that rising water levels will affect them.

If a flood does strike, turn off electricity, gas, and water lines and place buckets under active leaks. If the water is pooling slowly, soak up as much of it as possible to reduce the potential damage. Calling SERVPRO at the first sign of a flood is the best way to reduce water damage. Our highly trained technicians will solve your immediate problems and ensure you don’t experience lasting effects or further damage.

Flooding can happen to anyone. Take steps now to protect your home and keepsakes from Water damage in the event of a possible flood.

Hardwood Floor Damage

5/13/2021 (Permalink)

If you find your hardwood floors cupping and lifting up, call SERVPRO at 215.368.4110!

When your home or business sustains water damage, trust the professionals at SERVPRO to help restore your property. Here we installed an Injectidry hardwood floor drying system on the water damaged hardwood flooring. This specialized system pulls air & moisture (under negative pressure) through the flutes of the flooring to dry multiple layers. By utilizing this system we are typically able to save the hardwood flooring and reduce the costs and disruption to our client. With the specialized equipment and training that SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell & Abington Jenkintown has, we are able to restore vs. replace in many circumstances. After 3 days of drying the flooring returned to normal moisture levels, eliminating the need to remove and replace all the flooring.

If you have a water loss and need us to dry out your hardwood flooring call SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown at 215.368.4110.

Protecting Your Home from Frozen and Bursting Pipes

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Basement flooding? Burst pipe? Call us at 215.368.4110. We are always here to help!

Our area has experienced some record cold temperatures this month. Though you may be taking extra steps to keep yourself warm, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown wants to remind you to keep your home safe as well.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety reports that pipes generally don't burst from simply freezing - it is actually the buildup of pressure between the frozen water blockage and the closed faucet that causes the pipe to burst.

Here at SERVPRO, we care about our customers and want to pass on the following tips to help protect their homes:

1) Let a faucet slowly drip during extreme cold weather (under 20 degrees F) to provide pressure relief on the pipe.  If hot and cold water lines serve a fixture, make sure that both lines are contributing to the drip.

2) If you are planning to travel out of town, take the extra precaution of draining your water system.  To do this, shut off the main water valve and then turn on all fixtures until water stops flowing.  If there is no water in the lines, they can't freeze or burst.

In the event that the worst happens and you come home to a burst pipe and water in your home, SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown 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 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 – 215.368.4110

Stay warm out there and remember that SERVPRO is here to help with all of your routine and emergency restoration and cleaning needs.

About SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown 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.

Meet Our Crew:

https://www.SERVPROlansdale.com/employee-photos

What Can Cause Water Damage in Your Home?

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage can happen all over your home, and even underneath it.

One of the most common causes of water damage is a leaky basement. To make repairs, you have to find the leak. We can help address this problem

Leaky Plumbing

Another cause of water damage is a leaky plumbing system. Unless the system is plagued by multiple leaks, you can do the repair yourself. Depending on the extensiveness of the damage, you can either patch up the leaky pipe or change one or several damaged pipes if the problem is internal. SERVPRO can always help you with water damage repair that is out of your hands.

Fixing the Plant Root System

Did you know that plant and shrub overgrowth could cause water damage to the home too? When the root system of the plant and shrub is too close to a structure, water could penetrate its foundation. You can resolve minor water damage caused by plant overgrowth by trimming the shrubs and removing water that pools near the foundation of your home.

Damaged Drywall

For ceilings, the usual culprit is a leaky roof or a leaky toilet. For leaky toilets, we highly recommend getting a Plumber to stop the leak. Then let the Professionals at SERVPRO repair any damages that may have occurred.  We can repair drywall, dry any moisture and help protect against mold. 

Call SERVPRO today if your home or business is experiencing Water Damage our number is 215.368.4110.

What is in your water?

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Lansdale at 215.368.4110!

Did you know that the water either coming into your home or from your home due to busted pipes or leaks has what we call a “category”? When it comes to handling mitigation in your home it is better to allow the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown to deal with the emergency because you have to treat the water correctly to be safe. You never know what is either in your water or what the water has passed through to create contamination.

The information below explains the main types of water damage and could help you identify the problem quickly if it ever happens to you.

Category One: Clear Water

This water is the cleanest, most non-toxic form of water damage. It is potable water, perhaps directly from the tap. It is unlikely to cause you any harm, even if you are exposed for some time. Nevertheless, even clean flooding can lead to electrical and structural faults, so it is safer for you to call in the experts for repairs. Clean water comes from things like a broken water supply line, tub or sinks overflow with no contaminants, appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines to name a few. However, once clean water leaves the exit point, it might not remain clean after contacting other surfaces or materials. Although it is considered the "safest" of the categories, it can degrade to category 2 or 3 if left untreated.

Category Two: Gray Water 

Gray water damage is a little bit more serious and requires a speedier removal process. This is because it may contain potentially unsafe levels of chemicals, microorganisms, or dirt. Examples of Cat 2 water include, but are not limited to: overflow from dishwashers or washing machines; overflows from toilet bowls with urine; seepage due to hydrostatic pressure and broken aquariums.
If left untreated, it can quickly degrade into category 3.

Category Three: Black Water

Cat 3 water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic or other harmful agents. Cat 3 water can include, but are not limited to: sewage; toilet backflows from beyond the trap; flooding from seawater, rivers or streams, ground surface water, or other contaminated water entering the indoor environment.

The team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown is skilled in the safe handling of the different categories through training and protective clothing to eliminate the risk of sickness.

Installing Appliances Properly To Avoid Water Damage

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4100!

Most of us like to save money by doing things ourselves, and there are actually a lot of projects around your home or business that you can complete yourself. These could be projects like painting and plastering, installing ceiling fans and lighting, installing tile or carpeting, or perhaps laying out and creating a backyard vegetable and herb garden. More experienced homeowners may be skilled enough to build brick walls, roof their own homes, or pour and finish concrete walkways and slabs, as well. We can find much of the information we need on the internet these days to help us begin and then execute projects and tasks of all kinds, and many home improvement centers now offer seminars and classes on do-it-yourself projects for all interested parties, too. 

There are some bigger home improvement projects that may take the help of a professional, however, due to their size or logistical challenges. Some tasks, when done incorrectly, can even cause unwanted damage that may make it worth your while to ask for assistance. In such cases as these, contracting the help of a professional company to complete the job may be the best choice. 

You could be considering replacing your large appliances in your home, and this may be a project you are thinking about completing yourself, but the logistics of a project such as this one can be a big challenge due to the size of many appliances and the technical know-how that is often necessary. It’s also extremely important that the installation is done correctly in order to avoid water damage in the future. It is very often more cost-effective to ensure that a job is done right the first time. 

Here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown, we are ready to help with household or business projects of all sizes, so if you do happen to experience water damage, we are here to help! If you have experienced storm damage, fire damage, or mold infestation, we are experts in each of these areas, and we are proud to serve our community.

Steps To Take When Your Ceiling Is Leaking

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

Give us at call at 215.368.4110, we would love to help!

It will always be immediately obvious when you have a leak in your ceiling! Drips of water, discolored tiles or plaster, and peeling paint are going to be dead giveaways. It isn’t always as obvious as to where that water is coming from, and it can be difficult to find the source. Common causes will include: leaky or burst pipes, a toilet or tub that has overflowed, and leaks in your roofing, just to name a few. In addition to unsightly staining and damage to your interiors, it can lead to mold if they are from a smaller leak, while large leaks and burst pipes can cause your ceiling to crumble completely in a fairly short period of time. If you have a serious issue you will probably want to call a professional full-service repair company. 

In the meantime, here are a couple of steps to take when your ceiling is leaking: 

• Dry the Ceiling. If the damage is minor, you will want to find the source first and repair that. Using fans and dehumidifiers can be a big help after the repair is done, and you may want to rent commercial units for the best effect. You can use scaffolding to raise these machines up near the ceiling, improving airflow and getting things drier faster. 
• Paint/Repair. For a minor ceiling situation, you can make repairs without replacing drywall or plaster by scrubbing the area to take away loose debris, wiping the area with a clean cloth, and allowing it to air dry. If your ceiling is painted, apply a primer to block water spots, and then apply 2 coats of paint, blending it into the damaged areas. For a plaster ceiling, just fill in the gaps and cracks with new plaster.

The steps above are great for someone who is a do-it-yourselfer or when the damage is minor, but if you have experienced a large leak in your ceiling with a lot of damage to your building, you can always rely on us here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell, and Abington Jenkintown. We are water damage and fire damage experts and skilled in mold prevention and remediation, too.

How To Repair Hardwood Floors After Water Damage

5/6/2020 (Permalink)

A flooding event of any size will have a negative effect on your building and property, and your wood floors will really suffer. Any time water saturates hardwood, the wood absorbs the water through its pores and this, in turn, causes warping and discoloration. If you have experienced water damage to your wood flooring, you will want to follow these steps to repair them:

• Removing Water. Soak up the water as quickly as possible. The longer the water remains, the worse the damage will be. The first 24 hours are critical, but if you are able to remove the water and dry your floors completely, you may be able to avoid serious and irreversible damage. You will also be alleviating the possibility of a mold invasion. 
• Sanding/Refinishing. You will need to sand and refinish the wood. This repair can bring your floors back to pre-flood condition and will save you all the time and money involved in having your damaged flooring removed and new flooring installed. 
• Contacting Professionals. When you have experienced extensive water damage, such as from a tornado, hurricane, or severe flooding due to a large weather event, your best bet will be to contact a professional water damage restoration service. They are experts in this area and will have the personnel and equipment necessary to get your water damage taken care of as fast as possible. Make sure you call them right away! If your area has suffered a weather disaster, these companies will probably have a waitlist. 
• Taking Preventive Measures. 
• Find the source of water and take the necessary steps to stop the flow. 
• If you have carpeting on top of your hardwood floor, remove both the carpet and the padding immediately and take care of any other wet objects, as well. You may have to deal with odors and discoloration after a water damage event. Remember that your restoration professionals can help you with carpet-cleaning after a water damage event, too.
• Use a shop-vac or household vacuum to extract as much water as you can. Rely on professionals if the amount of water is really extensive. 
• Prevent mold and preserve your hardwood floors by using a non-sudsy disinfectant, and then vacuum again to remove standing water. 
• Use a dehumidifier or run your heater or air conditioner constantly to keep the air dry inside the affected areas. This will help to prevent unpleasant odors and may provide a deterrent to mold, too. 

SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, Blue Bell and Abington Jenkintown has the skills and equipment necessary to get your floors back to pre-damage condition, and we are always here to help with repairs and renovations to any area of your property when you are affected by water damage event, whether large or small. We also handle fire damage, and we are mold remediation experts, too.

How Often Should You Clean Your Rain Gutters?

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

Clean your rain gutters!

Unclogging gutters and rain spouts are an important part of home maintenance in the fall and spring. It’s an easy job to do yourself, but if you are afraid of heights or doubt your ability to get it done, don’t forget your friends here at SERVPRO of Lansdale. We can help you in both cleaning and unclogging your gutters, which help to keep you from dealing with damage from water during the wet months.

You risk experiencing water damage to your roof, basement and crawl space if gutters and rain spouts are not cleaned out regularly. So how often should you clean out your rain gutters? It’s going to be important to take care of this task before the rainy season hits in the spring, summer and into the fall, for sure, so it is probably a good idea to complete this task at least three times a year, ahead of wet and windy weather. Debris will build up in your gutters at those times, preventing water from draining down and out, and if the gutters can’t channel the water when it rains, it ends up pooling and backing up into your walls and attic, or near your foundation and in your basement.

You will want to use step ladders on solid level ground and try to schedule cleaning when the weather has been dry for a few days. This way, the debris, leaves and pine needles won’t be as soaked and will be much easier to remove. Remove larger debris and then follow that up with a powerful hose that washes everything else down towards the downspout. You will also want to clean the gutter filter screens and make sure there are no clogs in your downspout. If these tasks seem like more than you want to handle alone, call us!

Contact us here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell for any water damage caused by your rain gutters. Gutter cleaning and unclogging rain spouts is an easy regular home maintenance fix. Do your family a favor by preventing water damage to your home or business with regularly cleaning your rain gutters

What Can Cause Water Damage in Your Commercial Building?

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

Call us at 215.368.4110!

Water damage of any kind can be devastating to a business. Even the smallest of leaks left unchecked can create huge amounts of trouble and cost a lot of money to repair. As a business owner, you may be thinking about ways you can prevent this from affecting your business, so let’s talk about what can cause water damage in your commercial building:

Pipes. Your commercial building may be older, with plumbing that has seen better days. Leaky pipes can easily become an issue as the gaskets and seals wear out and the pipes themselves break down. 

Faucets. In kitchens, break rooms, bathrooms, and shops you are going to have sinks and water faucets. A faucet that is older and that has developed a drip can not only annoy you but can cause a lot of damage if it’s ignored for too long. 

Roofing. The roofing of your commercial building should be kept in top shape to guard against water damage. If a roof is not in the best shape and has developed weak spots and small holes, the walls and ceilings of your building are in danger. 

Spills. Spills of all sizes can cause damage if they are not cleaned up in a timely manner. Even the smallest puddle of water can seep into all kinds of materials, resulting in warped wood, discolored tiles, and flaking plaster. Keep in mind that it only takes a little amount of damp to attract a mold colony, and that just takes the damage to another level. 

Floods. When heavy, wet weather hits, a flood can occur. We’ve all seen the pictures of what a flood can do, and it can be devastating. From washing away walkways and trees to moving vehicles and even the building itself, a flood is a powerful force. 

If you experience water damage in your commercial building, call us here at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell. We’ll be there right away to help you get back to normal. We are restoration pros, and we handle mold, too.

Winter Water Damage

10/3/2019 (Permalink)

For the Philadelphia area and most of the northern United States winter freezing temperatures are always a cause for concern. 

Besides the fact that it is freezing to us, it is also freezing our pipes!  Frozen pipes many times lead to broken pipes and during these times of frozen pipes the restoration industry is swamped with work.  When this happens we are lucky to have the backing of SERVPRO to help us in this time!  Whether is it the polar vortex or just a week of ridiculously cold weather, SERVPRO franchises are always available to help out others who are at max work capacity.

This gives you the ability to have quick service and know that you are still getting industry-leading equipment, set-up, monitoring and restoration services.  

Hurricane Preparedness - Be Ready

10/1/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Fleet

The two keys to weather safety is to PREPARE for the risks and to ACT on those preparations when alerted by emergency officials.

Before a Hurricane:

• To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
• Know your surroundings
• Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone.
• Identify levees and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard to you.
• Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground.
• Make plans to secure your property
• Cover all of your home's windows
• Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Reinforce your garage
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
• Determine how and where to secure your boat.
• Install a generator for emergencies.
• If in a high-rise building, when high winds are present, be prepared to take shelter on a lower floor because wind conditions increase with height, and in a small interior room without windows.
• Consider building a safe room.

Water damage from a flood

5/9/2019 (Permalink)

If you live in an area that often experiences severe weather and flooding, you should make flood safety a priority in your  home. Use the following tips to help keep you, your family and your home safe during a flood.

1. Make an Emergency Kit

Depending on the severity of the storm you are expecting, your emergency kit may vary from time to time. However, there are some items that should always be included, such as flashlights, radios and batteries in case the power goes out. Canned food and bottled water are good additions as well.

2. Have an Evacuation Plan

While an emergency kit can be helpful for less damaging storms, you need to know how to leave your home safely if the weather becomes a threat. Create a flood safety plan with your family that includes each member as well as any pets. Make sure to practice ahead of time so you are all familiar with the procedure.

3. Do Not Travel Through Flood Waters

If you do need to evacuate your home, only travel on roads that have not been flooded. Even if the waters look shallow, there may be road damage or debris lurking underneath. Depending on the speed and depth of the moving water, cars can be carried away resulting in a dangerous situation.

4. Have Your Home Cleaned As Soon As Possible

The need for flood safety does not end when the flood does. Flood waters can cause contamination and might make your family sick if it is not completely removed. If water from a flood has entered your home, it is a good idea to hire an emergency remediation service to help with cleanup as well as any necessary repairs. Throw away any food that has been in contact with the water.

It can be difficult to know what to do during an emergency situation. Keeping these safety tips in mind will be beneficial to you and your family the next time you find yourself expecting severe weather.  If your home does suffer a water damage call the professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell at 215.674.8222

Water Damage Odors

5/8/2019 (Permalink)

After a water damage in your home, you may be facing a variety of problems. However, one that you may not expect are the odors a water damage can create. Mold growth, sewer water, and debris can all leave foul smells behind, even after the water is drained away. If you have recently experienced a flood in your home, there are a few ways to sniff out the source of these smells so you can have them eliminated.

1. Musty Smells

After floodwater enters your home, it may be absorbed by drywall and other porous building materials. This can cause mold to grow in the interior walls, especially if they contain insulation. Mold can cause a musty, foul odor due to the mycotoxins it can release. In most cases, the stronger the musty smell, the more serious the mold growth invasion.

2. Dirt or Earthy Odors

When outdoor flooding invades your home, it can also bring mud, clay and other types of dirt along with it. Earthy or wormy odors can be left behind in your walls or under carpeting, where they can linger for weeks afterward. Having porous building materials replaced can alleviate this issue. Consider having drywall and molding torn out and the rooms professionally cleaned before any reconstruction takes place.

3. Sewer Smells

Few odors are as unpleasant as those that come from a sewer. If your home experienced a flood due to a sewage loss, the bitter, foul smell could remain long after the water is drained away. Calling in a waterdamage restoration service may give you a number of options for removing this smell, from the use of ozone machines to special cleaning techniques that typically cannot be found elsewhere.

Mold growth, dirt and foul sewer smells can make your residence smell unbearable after a flood. Learning where these smells come from and how to eliminate them can restore your happy home.  Please call the water damage mitigation specialist at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell if your in need of odor removal or water damage mitigation.  215.368.4110

Sprinkler Systems in your Multi-Family Structure

5/7/2019 (Permalink)

The sprinkler system in your multi-family structure is made to go off when it senses extreme heat (174 degrees Fahrenheit or above). The heads contain a temperature-sensitive mechanism that can only be activated when the temperature at the sprinkler head exceeds the allowable range, and they operate independently, with those directly exposed being set off. Most fires are extinguished, or controlled, by three sprinklers or less, but the damage from just one sprinkler head can be significant: a sprinkler head can release from 15 to 40 gallons of water per minute and can fill an entire bathtub in under two minutes!
Prompt and professional decision-making following a sprinkler discharge in your multi-family structure is going to be essential; the actions you take in the first 24-48 hours will save you significant time and money in minimizing the water damage and help to eliminate the possibility of a mold colony getting started on your property. If your tenants complain of odors or signs of mold, respond immediately, and use professional help for mold remediation, should it become an issue.
The water in a sprinkler system is stagnant and non-potable and has absorbed oils and other contaminants within the piping, so cleanup actions will involve surface cleaning from stains, and elimination of odors, in addition to water damage restoration and moisture remediation measures. Where fabric and textiles are affected, prompt action must also be taken to avoid permanent staining and to preserve these articles.
The hard, non-porous surfaces in the condominium units, such as plastics, vinyl, ceramic tile, etc. will need to be done with a mild detergent followed by complete drying. Employ dehumidifiers for wet areas and during wetter seasons, as well, for comprehensive and complete drying.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell will arrive equipped with specialized instrumentation to facilitate comprehensive project investigation, design and implementation, and will complete your damage recovery in a timely and excellent manner. We are experts in water damage restoration, fire damage restoration, mold remediation, commercial restoration, and much more!  If your multi-family structure suffers a water damage please call the pros at 215.368.4110

via LinkedIN

Sources for Commercial Water Damages

3/28/2019 (Permalink)

Planning ahead can keep your commercial property safe from water damage. Just keeping an eye on the places where water can become an issue for your business will help you stay ahead of the game. Some of the top sources for commercial water damage can include:

• STORMS: Winter and Spring bring lots of water, either by steady rains, or ice and snow, and all that water can cause a lot of problems. Make an inspection around your place of business; are you prepared for wet weather? Take note of weather stripping and poorly fitting doors and windows and the drainage for your parking areas and entryways as well as all warehousing and manufacturing outbuildings.
• EQUIPMENT FAILURES. Unexpected events such as a burst pipe in your parking area or under a sink, or a broken or misdirected landscaping sprinkler can easily create problems by sending large amounts of water to the wrong places. In shops and warehouses, water damage can come about from broken pipes or equipment failures, such as pumps, etc.
• WATER MAINS. These kinds of situations come from circumstances that are out of your control, but you do want to keep them in mind. Make sure your parking areas and entryways can stay open in the event that your area streets are flooded due to a burst water main. You know you will have to wait for the city or county to come and correct the problem, and you want to stay in business.
• LEAKS. After wet weather, you may realize you have smaller water damage issues that you hadn’t noticed before. The roof of your office area, your warehouse, or your storage area needs to be properly cared for as well to protect your product, machinery, and office furniture from water damage through leaks and seepage.

If you have sustained water damages to your home or commercial property, the team here at SERVPRO Lansdale, Warminster, and Blue Bell is ready to help in any way we can. We have the expertise to handle water and fire damage and specialize in mold remediation

via LinkedIN

Water Damage Prevention

5/3/2018 (Permalink)

Rain, rain, go away. We all know the months are coming when we will start to think of these words to that childhood song. Rain is necessary to nourish flowers and trees, and that’s great! But sometimes all that water can cause damage to your home or business.

Is your business or home ready? Let’s talk about ways to prepare.

Take a look at rain gutters. Clogged gutters will cause rainwater to back up, damaging your roof and walls.
Do a roof inspection. Are any shingles loose or damaged? Replace any that could be an issue to protect attic or workspace from water damage.
Check interior walls and ceilings for signs of water damage; this could be an indication of roof leaks.
Trim any trees and bushes next to your Belle Meade business. Be sure to cut back branches that could become waterlogged and break off, damaging property.
Ensure that all doors and windows are secure, and that weatherstripping is in good condition.
Look for water collecting around the foundation of your home or business, and take steps to redirect it, if needed, to avoid water damage.
If your home or business is located near flooding areas, stockpiling sandbags to protect your property and parking areas would be a good idea.
Make sure the city drains near your home or business are clear of debris and earth.  Preparedness in the event of any kind of extreme weather is always a good idea, to protect your business and property from loss and damage. Taking the time to assess your situation and thinking ahead about what may come is a good way to keep your investment secure.

Call our team at SERVPRO of Lansdale, 215-368-4110 anytime, whether you need assistance with water damage, fire damage or mold prevention.

courtesy of LinkedIn

Faster to your Lansdale Water Damage Event

4/13/2017 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by a frozen pipe that burst.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Lansdale 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 Lansdale 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 – 215-368-4110

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 Lansdale

SERVPRO of Lansdale 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