How to file a water damage claim.

3/8/2023 (Permalink)

Filing a claim after a water loss or other restoration emergency.

Water damage can be devastating to your home or business. But if you are insured, filing a water loss claim is actually pretty simple. Here's what you need to know about the process.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

If you have received water damage to your home or business, the first thing you should do is contact your insurance company. They will want to know what happened, how much damage there is and whether or not they need to file a claim on your behalf. If they do, they will send out an adjuster who can assess the situation and provide advice on next steps.

Talk to your insurance adjuster about your coverage and options.

If you have a water damage claim, it's important to talk to your insurance adjuster. Insurance adjusters are trained to help you and your family understand what's covered under the terms of your policy. They can also help guide you through the claims process, including negotiating with contractors and vendors on your behalf.

In most cases, insurance companies will require that any repairs be performed by licensed professionals who hold liability insurance themselves and if they don't meet these requirements, then it may be necessary for someone from the company itself to step in and finish the job instead of hiring someone else at an inflated cost just because he happened by first.

Document the damage with photos or videos.

Take photos of the damage. You can use your phone to take photos, but if you have the option, it's best to use a camera. The more angles and perspectives you capture in these images, the better. For example, if there's water damage on your ceiling and walls, as well as inside cabinets or closets and possibly even under rugs, take photos from each room so that you have documentation of how far-reaching this issue may be and how much work will be required to fix it all up again!

Get pictures from outside as well. It might seem obvious that one should snap shots from outside their home after experiencing any kind of severe weather event, like flooding. Many people forget about this step when trying to document their claim with insurance companies or other agencies involved in filing claims for homeowners' insurance policies.

A water loss claim can be complicated, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming

File a claim as soon as possible after discovering the damage. Your insurance company will want documentation of the damage and how it happened, so take photos and video of any affected areas before cleaning up or making repairs. If possible, keep a record of all your phone calls with adjusters and other representatives from your insurance company so that there are no misunderstandings later on. A water loss claim can be complicated, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Make sure you understand what type of policy coverage applies in your case, theft vs vandalism or natural disaster, and whether or not any specific exclusions apply (like earthquake coverage).

Give SERVPRO a call for your water restoration emergency. Our technicians are ready to help 24/7.

Unclogging A Shower Drain

11/10/2022 (Permalink)

To prevent clogged drains, use a drain cleaner regularly to keep the pipes clear.

Unclogging A Shower Drain

Clogged drains are one of the most common plumbing problems, and they can cause a lot of trouble. It's important to know how to unclog a shower drain before it becomes an issue. If you've got a clogged shower drain, don't let it sit for too long because this problem can quickly escalate into something more serious.

The main reason your bathtub or shower drain clogs is because it gets dirty.

The first step in unclogging a drain is to remove the debris that's causing it to become clogged. This can be done by using different methods, such as:

• Using a plunger with soapy water (do this every day)
• Using a chemical cleaner to break up any soap scum on the side of your tub or shower wall

You should also use these tips for preventing future clogs:

Moisture in the bathroom can lead to mold and mildew which can also clog your shower drain.

If you live in a humid climate, or if your Nixon, TX home is not well insulated, moisture may be building up in your bathroom. This excess moisture can lead to mold and mildew which can clog your shower drain. Clogged drains can cause damage to other parts of your home through water damage and mold growth. You should inspect your shower drain regularly for signs of blockage such as slow draining or standing water after use.

Blockages in the pipes can result from hair, bath products, soap and mineral deposits from hard water.

Blockages in your shower drain can be caused by a variety of things. Hair and soap scum buildup, or mineral deposits from hard water are common culprits.

To prevent clogged drains, use a drain cleaner regularly to keep the pipes clear.

If left untreated, your clogged drain could eventually lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural damage.

The bathroom is one of the most humid places in your home—which is why it's important to keep it dry. There's nothing more annoying than a slow-draining shower or bathtub that leaves you waiting for the water to drain away so you can step out with ease. If this happens regularly in your house or apartment then you may need to call an expert plumber who can unclog your drain without causing any further problems.

If left untreated by a professional plumber, clogged drains can result in expensive repairs down the line as they begin eroding away at pipes underneath your house or apartment building. This type of damage could potentially lead to leaks that would cause major problems down the road if not corrected quickly enough!

Your toilet flushing can also cause a clogged drain.

Another common cause of a clogged drain is your toilet flushing. The amount of water used during each flush can create enough debris to clog your drain, and the flushing itself does not always get rid of all the liquid. If you have a slow-draining toilet and an overflowing bathtub, it might be a good idea to check out this article on how to fix that problem!

We hope this article has helped you understand how to unclog a shower drain. If you encounter any issues with your clogged drain, please contact SERVPRO of Schertz Central, Cibolo, Seguin, Gonzales at (830)406- 2030 and we'll be happy to assist you!

Water Cleanup and Damage Tips for a Commercial Building

10/1/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in Seguin, TX.

Tips for a Commercial Building's Water Cleanup and Damage

Water damage in a commercial facility may stem from various causes including storm floods or a dysfunctional sprinkler system. Whatever the case, it's imperative to take immediate action to prevent mold formation and structural disintegration. Here are some water cleanup and damage tips for your Seguin, TX, business.

1. Stay Safe
Leave the building if you believe it's unsafe. Otherwise, if it's safe for you to do so, shut off gas and power to your building to prevent electric shock hazards and fires. If a pipe bursts, avoid areas exposed to sewage due to possible waste contamination.

2. File an Insurance Claim
Contact your insurance company to file a claim and ask questions about the steps you need to take before submitting it. Before you clean or throw anything away, take photos of the damage and create a written record for your claim.

3. Hire Professionals
Bring in water mitigation experts to assess the damage to your facility and begin restoration work. They use special tools such as dehumidifiers and air movers to dry out your facility. These techniques help prevent mold formation and the breakdown of walls and floors. Some mitigation experts also offer claim services to help save you time and effort.

4. Follow These Cleaning Tips
Perform some tasks while you wait for help to arrive. Follow these cleanup and damage tips to start treating water exposure:

• Adjust humidity to a low setting. High humidity can damage structures and paper goods even if they were not directly exposed to water.
  
• Open windows to improve air circulation.
  
• Do not use fans, heat or air conditioning, as they may dry things out too quickly or worsen existing structural damage.
  
  

Recovering from water damage doesn't have to be a hard slog. Follow these cleanup and damage tips to safely get your commercial building back in business.

4 Causes of Noisy Pipes and How To Stop Them

7/3/2022 (Permalink)

When the water pressure is too high, it might cause noisy pipes.

Why Pipes Are Noisy and How To Stop Them

When the plumbing in your house starts making noise, it may be a sign of an imminent pipe break. The water damage created by these unfortunate circumstances often requires rebuilding expertise provided by a home restoration professional. Here are four reasons for loud pipes and what actions can be taken before the conditions triggering the clamor develop into calamity.

1. Loose Fittings
Clicking or rattling may be signs of improperly fitted pipes. This condition, prone to worsening over time, must be fixed fast. If you have exposed plumbing, simply tighten the bolts and replace worn-out segments yourself. Should your pipes be hidden behind walls or otherwise difficult to access, have a plumber re-route your water delivery system before a pipe break develops.

2. Copper Pipes
Copper piping expands and contracts along with temperature fluctuations, making them particularly noisy. Luckily, a pipe burst should not be a concern under these circumstances. Remedy the situation by applying insulation or lowering the temperature of your water.

3. Water Hammers
Certain plumbing systems are protected by air chambers that prevent water from slamming into valves when taps shut off. Over time, water hammers are created when air gets replaced with water, thus reducing the chambers' stopping power and making pipes cranky. Replenish the air supply within your system by performing a full drain. If this fails, have a plumber come to your home in San Marcos, TX, to inspect the issue.

4. Water Pressure
Noisy pipes are also known to occur when water pressure is too high. Before you find yourself scrambling to fix broken pipe parts, adjust your boiler’s regulator. If the boiler in your home does not have a meter, seek guidance from a service professional.
Noisy pipes are an annoyance, but the frustration they cause pales in comparison to that of a pipe break. Listen closely to the sounds your plumbing creates and take action as soon as you suspect a problem.

4 Immediate Steps to Take After a Toilet Overflows

3/11/2022 (Permalink)

If you are having issues with an overflowing toilet, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe and Gonzales Counties.

What To Do When Toilet Overflows?

Sewer damage or foreign objects can result in an overflowing toilet. The last thing you want is for a bathroom to become unusable because it is filled with water, especially contaminated water. No matter what, you should contact a sewage cleaning company in Seguin, TX  right away. Professionals should arrive promptly to fix a flooded toilet, especially if you state it is an emergency. However, there are steps you can take on your own to prevent the damage from getting worse before experts get there.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Most toilets are designed to stop filling the bowl with water at a certain point to prevent flooding. However, an issue with the system can cause the bowl to fill up past the breaking point. You should know where the water main is located in your house. Turn it off promptly before more sewer damage is allowed to enter your house.

2. Turn Off Electricity to the Bathroom

It is also a good idea to shut off the circuit breaker supplying power to the bathroom. Even a small amount of water can result in electrocution if someone steps in it. Many bathrooms in Seguin, TX do not have power outlets close to the ground, but if yours does, then you want to make sure it is not hot when it comes into contact with water.

3. Circulate Air

To prevent the air from getting too humid, you should promote ventilation in the bathroom. Open up windows to get air moving. You should also bring in fans if you can, which you can keep in the other room or hallway, so you are not setting them directly in the floodwater.

4. Remove Soaked Bathroom Rugs

If you can safely do so, then remove bathroom mats on the floor that have sustained sewer damage. If you cannot, then wait until the sewage company arrives so that professionals can salvage your belongings. With a quick enough response, you may be able to prevent mold growth by washing the mat thoroughly.

The Four Professionals You Need for Commercial Water Restoration

3/5/2022 (Permalink)

A flood cut has been performed in this building.

For Commercial Water Restoration, You'll Need These Four Experts

If you need pipe burst cleanup or have a supply line leaking in your commercial property, you should call a professional cleanup company to help you with water cleanup. These companies in Cibolo, TX  can help it look like nothing ever happened. The key to this restoration is the team of four technicians that oversee the following steps of the cleanup process:

• Water Damage Restoration
  
• Applied Structural Drying
  
• Odor Control
  
• Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning
  

Together, these technicians can restore your business after a flood from a burst pipe or leaking supply line. These are not just titles; each person has an essential job function.

Water Damage Restoration

Water can cause structural and secondary damage that can wreak havoc on your business. For example, if you don’t have someone remove the water immediately, it can cause mold all over the area. That’s why a Water Damage Restoration Technician comes on site.

Applied Structural Drying

When the flood is gone, the job is far from over. Part of pipe burst cleanup is ensuring that the structures in the room get the drying and restoration they need. For example, the Applied Structural Drying Technician may see the need for a flood cut in your building. This type of restoration process keeps mold at bay even after the flood is gone.

Odor Control

If you have ever been in a home that has flooded, you know the musty odor that it can leave. A bad water cleanup job can leave mildew hanging around. This leaves a foul smell that simply isn’t good for business. An Odor Control Technician can keep this smell from coming around in the first place or make it go away if it has started already.

Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning

Another important element of pipe burst cleanup is ensuring that any affected porous surfaces are free from mold. An Upholstery and Fabric Cleaning Technician can make sure this happens. These professionals in Cibolo, TX know how to properly clean fabrics to keep mold and mildew from growing.
With the help of restoration professionals skilled in each of these areas, your business will be quickly back to normal.

How to Avoid Coming Home to a Flooded Home

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

Shut off the main water supply to your home before you leave.

How to Stay Away From a Flooded House

Imagine coming home from a long, relaxing vacation only to find out that a pipe burst and has flooded your home. It’s not the “welcome home” gift any homeowner wants. You can avoid needing water pipe repair from a broken pipe by doing a few things before you leave:

• Shut off water supply
  
• Check your pumps
  
• Fix your gutters
  
  

These three steps can keep your post-vacation glow going a little while longer. Here is how to fully complete each part.

Shut Off Water Supply

If you can do so safely, shut off the main water supply to your home before you leave. This simple step can help ensure that even if a pipe breaks in the middle of your trip, you can avoid coming home to a flooded home because of it. If you can’t shut the main line off, you can go through the house and close individual valves. Don’t forget about exterior faucets!

Check Your Pumps

If you have a basement in New Braunfels, TX, you need to test your sump pump before you head out. Pour some water down the pit. Watch the water to make sure it goes out the way it should. If everything looks okay, you can feel relieved. If something seems suspicious, give a plumber a call just to be safe.

Fix Your Gutters

All the water pipe repair work in the world can’t stop all floods. Make sure to protect your home against floods that could hit come from a large rainstorm. Give your gutters a once-over to make sure they are in working order. They play a big role in keeping the water outside. Furthermore, you should consider adding downspout extensions if yours do not extend at least 10 feet away from the side of your house.

Doing these three things before you take off can help you relax while you’re away. You can avoid having a broken pipe, flooded home, and water pipe repair bills.

3 Steps to Take After a Pipe Bursts

2/20/2022 (Permalink)

Bursting pipes can cause all kinds of trouble and water damage in San Marcos, TX.

After a Pipe Bursts, There Are Three Things You Should Do

Bursting pipes can cause significant water damage in San Marcos, TX. Not only do homeowners need to fix a broken pipe, but you must also worry about salvaging belongings and preventing potential mold. Luckily, you can restore your home in as few as three easy steps:

1. Turn off the water
   
2. Call a cleanup company
3. Fix the pipe
   
   

That’s it! Pretty soon, that flooded room can be a distant memory. Here’s some further insight into each step.

1. Turn Off the Water

Before you can fix the damage, you must stop the water from coming through the pipe. In some cases, you can accomplish this by turning off the valve for the specific pipe. However, some bursting pipes require you to turn off the main water supply to the home. If the water is near any electrical outlets, you may want to cut off the power for that part of the house as well.

2. Call a Cleanup Company

Water damage from a broken pipe can cause all kinds of trouble if you don’t remove it properly. First, the water itself can cause floors and walls to become structurally unsound. However, even if you remove the standing water quickly, secondary problems, such as black mold, can cause trouble.

Mold grows because of the humidity in the room, so it can affect any part of the area, even if it looks like the water never touched it. That’s why it is important to call a professional company to restore your home.

3. Fix the Pipe

With the water out of the way, you can assess the damage and fix the broken pipe. For small breaks, you may be able to fix it yourself. However, more complex cases may require a plumber’s expertise.

Bursting pipes can cause all kinds of trouble and water damage in San Marcos, TX. Expedite the cleanup and repair process with these three steps.

Why Calling SERVPRO for a water damage is important

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage from flooding, leaks, or high humidity can not only compromise the integrity of your home and its contents but also cause mold growth. A mold infestation can occur quickly after water damage, making restoration more challenging. The presence of even a small amount of moisture in a building can create a large mold infestation if not handled properly.

Mold spores – tiny airborne particles that are not visible to the naked eye – exist everywhere in nature, and they can grow into visible mold after a water damage incident. A home infested with mold can cause health effects for the occupants. Those with problems of breathing caused by allergies or asthma can also suffer health effects from mold exposure.

However, you can avoid mold growth in your home if you act fast. All it takes is eliminating the moisture before mold has had the chance to start growing. But how quickly does mold grow after a flood or moisture problem?

How long after a flood does mold grow?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), mold typically grows 48 to 72 hours after a flood or water leak if the right conditions are met. However, it depends on the type of surfaces and materials, amount of moisture, and temperature. Indoors, mold generally grows faster on softer surfaces in darker, warmer (70 degrees or more), and more humid environments.

The chance for mold spores to spread from one area to another also increases with time. These microorganisms can quickly fill the air and spread throughout your home, affecting more and more areas with every passing hour.

Mold spores that start to colonize on surfaces within 24 hours become visible in about 18 to 21 days of the flooding. But that happens if nothing has been done to dry the water and restore the affected surfaces.

For these reasons, it’s essential to deal with water and moisture issues as soon as you have a flooding incident. The faster the cleanup and drying take place, the smaller the chances of major mold growth.

If you have had a flood or water damage in your home or place of business call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties - 830-379-7474

4 Ways To Find a Shower or Bathtub Leak

4/30/2021 (Permalink)

Visually inspect your shower for obvious signs of a shower pan leak

Four Things To Determine If You Have A Water Problem In Your Bathroom

Since bathtubs can hold many gallons of water, a bathtub leak can be a major cause of concern for a homeowner. If you suspect a leak in your bathroom, it is important to figure out where it is coming from to avoid further damage. Here are four things you can do to determine if you have a water problem in your bathroom.

1. Smell the Room
Excess water can lead to mold and mildew, both of which have musky odors. If your bathroom smells like an old carpet shortly after cleaning it, you could have mold or mildew lurking in your surroundings.

2. Look for Signs of Mold
Mold exists in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Regardless of the species, mold indicates a moisture problem and should be dealt with promptly. A bathtub leak can leave the floor moist, and mold can begin forming in moist areas in as little as 24-48 hours.

3. Inspect Your Shower Pan
Visually inspect your shower for obvious signs of a shower pan leak. If your shower pan looks fine, but you suspect a leak in the area, perform a shower pan test by plugging the drain and filling the pan with water. Check the water after 24-72 hours. If the water level is not the same as the original, you may have a leak in your shower pan.

4. Check for Symptoms of Water Damage
Water often leaves visible signs of damage. Common indicators of water damage include warped walls, baseboards, floors, and linoleum that is coming loose from the sub-floor.
As a homeowner, you will want to keep your home in as good of shape as possible. Since a bathtub leak can cause additional damage over time, it is important to fix any problems as soon as you notice them. A professional water remediation company can help restore your home to its pre-damaged condition as quickly as possible.

Why Is It Harmful to Allow Water to Evaporate Naturally?

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

Call in the professionals for water cleanup, to avoid additional water loss in your home. Our SERVPRO technicians are available 24/7.

Quickly removing water damage helps reduce secondary damage.

This question is often asked by our clients in Guadalupe County, trying to decide if the water leaked onto floors and inside cupboards can just be allowed to dry naturally. Of course, they will mop up as much water as possible, but they cannot get into those difficult to reach areas, and soaked carpeting can take a week or more to dry on its own.

SERVPRO provides water mitigation services in Guadalupe County and surrounding areas. We also provide water restoration, fire, and storm cleanup and restoration services. Our team has been living and working in the area since 2009.

There are several reasons homeowners should plan to remove water and moisture as rapidly as possible. They include:

Mold infestations can begin to form within 24 to 48 hours of the initial water spill

Water penetrates particle board and pressed wood veneers causing permanent swelling and damage

Water also penetrates hardwood floors causing swelling and cupping of the hardwood planks

Carpets may delaminate, causing ripples, leading to trips and falls

We strongly recommend that all water, moisture, and humidity should be removed as soon as possible to mitigate further damage.

Why Does SERVPRO Use Dehumidifiers and Air Movers?

Our SERVPRO team evaluates every situation and implements a plan to remove the water and moisture from your home. Often we use vacuums to remove surface water, water extractors on carpets, and vacuum wands to reach difficult areas. However, there can remain a high amount of moisture in porous materials touched by the water. We use dehumidifiers and air movers to reduce the moisture levels further to dry the impacted area completely.

Dehumidifiers are placed in the room or rooms to dry the air

We position air movers to push dry air over damp materials and into cavities

Dry air absorbs moisture from carpeting, hard to reach areas, and from porous materials.

Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties for help with water mitigation and restoration of your home. (830) 379-7474

Beware of Secondary Water Damage

3/1/2021 (Permalink)

The funny thing about water damage is even if an area doesn’t look wet, there’s always a chance that the place where the water damage occurred hasn’t properly dried.

Once water damage happens, it’s important to call a professional water damage restoration technician, like those at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties, to get to work right away to restore the damage. 

The more time spent between the damage occurring and getting a professional on-site to restore, the less likely it is that we’ll be able to prevent secondary water damage. 

This can include: 

• Mold growth
• Electrical damage, 
• Corrosion of metal materials
• Wood rot
• Material damage of laminate or hardwood flooring 

A good rule of thumb to follow after any disaster is this: call a professional as soon as you are aware of the damage. The longer you wait, the more damage the disaster will cause, and the less likely it will be restorable. 

Our technicians are available 24/7/365 to assist with all emergency disasters. Call our office after your water damage to ensure it is properly dried and to prevent secondary damage. SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties is Here to Help. (830) 379-7474

How to Restore Your Belongings After Water Damage

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Water in home settings can be devastating, whether from leaking pipes or backed-up drains or toilets. While there may be nothing you can do to prevent your items from becoming waterlogged in the event of an unexpected water leak, there are some things you can do to restore your belongings after water damage occurs. Here are a few ways you can clean up various items in your Schertz, TX home.

1. Separate Items

Before you officially begin the cleanup process, separate your items into those that are porous and nonporous. Porous materials may include wood, paper, rugs, and other types of fabric. Generally, these are more likely to harbor mold and bacteria from broken pipe water, so it’s essential to clean them quickly. Nonporous items are usually much easier to clean since they don’t absorb water and are less likely to harbor bacteria and mold.

2. Dry-Clean Nonporous Items

Dry cleaning may be appropriate when removing light water residue from nonporous items in your home. Items can also be dry cleaned before floor restoration professionals come in and thoroughly clean your items. 

3. Air-Dry When Appropriate

If you’re not dealing with dangerous water, such as sewage, it may be appropriate to gently air-dry most of your belongings. If possible, do so indoors unless the weather outdoors is ideal. You can increase the airflow inside your home using open windows, air conditioners, and fans. 

4. Toss Dangerous Items

Depending on the nature of floodwater in home settings, it may be dangerous to keep saturated items. If there is a high likelihood of the floodwater containing harmful bacteria, it may be best to throw away contaminated objects. In other cases, professionals may be able to safely clean and salvage some of your valuables. 

While you may be able to clean some of your belongings that water has damaged in your home, safety should always be your top priority, whether you’re dealing with a broken pipe or a sewer backup. It’s best to wait for professional help to arrive for help with dry-cleaning or salvaging contaminated items. Call  SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties for additional information regarding water damage. (830) 379-7474

SERVPRO Responds to Record Breaking Winter Storm in Texas

2/26/2021 (Permalink)

Have Water Damage From the Storm? Call Us (830) 379-7474

As a major Winter Storm Warning went into effect early Valentine’s Day weekend, Texas settled in for what was expected to be a long and cold week of record-breaking temperatures.

With almost 2 million residents losing power and multiple businesses closed due to dangerous road conditions, the White House had officially declared a state of emergency over Texas. Rolling blackouts and empty grocery stores cast an eerie, almost apocalyptic spell over the usually warm and sunny climate the state is known for. Amidst unprecedented times, Winter Storm Uri was as singular in its effects as it was harsh in its weather.

Although Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties reached a new record low temperatures, the real danger lied in power outages that shut down homes and businesses for hours at a time making it extremely difficult for residents to keep warm in the midst of what had already proven to be a historic event.

Rising up to the challenge, the crews of SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties have been responding to countless calls from home and property managers regarding water damages caused by burst pipes. Our trained technicians have slushed through several inches of water to find collapsed ceilings, ruined furniture, and buckled flooring that have forced residents into the homes of friends and neighbors. Though this event was uncommon, this is what we have been trained for.

As a result of the record-breaking number of people who have been affected, SERVPRO franchises from across the country have mobilized crews and equipment to assist in the restoration and reconstruction of properties that have been damaged throughout the state of Texas and in the south central United States. This is what sets SERVPRO apart — when you call us, you get access to over 1,700 franchises who are ready to respond to disasters at this scale.

Winter Storm Uri was unprecedented and unlike anything we could have expected. However, we are grateful to our crews and our SERVPRO franchise teams who have once again looked into the face of disaster and got to work. While this storm has certainly exposed areas of weakness that must be addressed in regards to infrastructure and planning, it has also revealed the depth of commitment and strength that flows through the SERVPRO system. There’s a reason why tens of thousands of people have called us to restore the damage from their homes and businesses: because we show up.

You can rest knowing that no matter how large a disaster may be, your local SERVPRO franchise, SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales has the full force of the SERVPRO system behind them, ready to take on any size disaster. If you are dealing with the aftermath of this severe winter storm, please call our team to receive help. (830) 379-7474

Why Is it Harmful to Let Water Evaporate Naturally?

11/24/2020 (Permalink)

Call in the professionals for water cleanup, to avoid additional water loss in your home. Our SERVPRO technicians are available 24/7.

Removing Water Quickly Helps Reduce Secondary Damage

This question is often posed by our clients in Schertz: Is water that has leaked onto floors and into cupboards just going to dry out by itself? Of course, they will remove as much water as possible, but they can’t absorb any that is inaccessible or that saturates carpeting, and it can take a week or more for carpeting to dry on its own.

SERVPRO provides water mitigation services in Schertz and the surrounding areas. We also provide water restoration, fire, and storm cleanup and restoration services. Our team has been living and working in the area since 2009.

There are several reasons homeowners should prioritize removing water and moisture rapidly. They include:

• Mold growth can begin within 24 to 48 hours of the initial water presence.
• Water rapidly seeps into particle board and even pressed wood veneers causing irreversible warping and damage.
• Water can also penetrate hardwood floors causing swelling and cupping of the hardwood planks.
• Carpets may delaminate, causing ripples that can lead to trips and falls.

We strongly recommend that all water, moisture, and humidity should be removed as soon as possible to mitigate further damage.

Why Does SERVPRO Use Dehumidifiers and Air Movers?

Our SERVPRO team evaluates every situation and implements a plan to remove the water and moisture from your home. Often we use vacuums to remove surface water, water extractors on carpets, and vacuum wands to reach difficult areas. However, there can a high amount of moisture can remain in porous materials that were touched by the water. This is why we use dehumidifiers and air movers to reduce the moisture levels further to dry the impacted area completely.

Dehumidifiers are placed in the room or rooms to dry the air.

We position air movers to push dry air over damp materials and into cavities.

Dry air absorbs moisture from carpeting, hard to reach areas, and from porous materials.

Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties 830-379-7474 for help with water mitigation and restoration of your home.

How Long is the Drying Process for Water Damaged Homes?

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO technicians use air movers to help speed up the drying process in water-damaged homes.

Water damage is the most common form of property damage with the various ways that it occurs. Regardless of the source, all cases of water damage require prompt attention to prevent further damage. But before any repairs and restoration can be performed, a few things need to be handled.

First, the source of the water must be determined. If water continues to enter your property, then more damage will ensue. For example, if a pipe burst caused damage, that problem needs to be repaired to stop more water from pouring into your home. After the water source has been addressed, prioritize water extraction. From there, the drying process can begin.

Displacement from your home is always unpleasant, but in certain cases, it might be necessary ? such as when your home has sustained significant water damage. When this happens, you may find yourself wondering how long the drying process for a water-damaged home may take.

On average, a water-damaged house will take approximately five days to dry.  However, the length of time it takes to dry could range from 12 hours to a couple of weeks. There are numerous factors that need to be considered to determine the drying time.

Read on to discover more about the factors that influence how long water-damaged homes take to dry out fully.

What Factors into the Drying Process for Water Damaged Homes?

The Extent of the Damage

In order to estimate how long it will take for your home to dry, we must consider the quantity of water involved in the areas affected. The more water there is, the longer it will take for your home to dry thoroughly.

For example, it takes less time to dry your home if only one room is affected than if all the rooms have standing water. 

Drying Equipment

The more drying equipment you have, the quicker the area can dry. However, the type of drying method can make a world of difference as well.

A standard house fan will take longer to dry an area than a high-volume fan and dehumidifier. This is why getting professional help from qualified water damage restoration technicians is beneficial. They have specialized drying equipment that can efficiently dry out water-damaged properties.

How Do You Dry Water Damaged Homes?

In an ideal situation, a combination of the following three drying methods will be used to dry your water damaged home.

Air Drying

This technique is simple, as you just allow the air to dry the materials affected by excess water and moisture present in your home. Usually, this method includes opening up windows and exterior doors to help improve air circulation and speed up the drying process. However, air drying is really only realistic for smaller areas with low humidity and lesser amounts of saturation due to the fact this technique is naturally more time-consuming.
Fans

Fans are a good way to dry water-damaged areas because they circulate the air to eliminate the moisture more effectively. The issue with using such equipment, however, is that it can also help encourage mold growth and its spread.

Mold is a common result of water damage because a water-damaged property provides the perfect environment for mold growth. If mold has grown in your water damaged home, then a fan can spread mold spores and allow the growth to affect new areas. Because of this, it is recommended your home is first inspected for mold.

Dehumidifiers

One of the quicker drying methods, dehumidifiers effectively eliminates moisture from the air and materials in the surrounding space.  They also cover a larger area compared to fans, making them ideal for use in larger spaces. The water just needs to be emptied regularly so it can continue running.

What Should You Do if Your Home Experiences Water Damage?

If your home has suffered water damage, then you need to act quickly in order to prevent the damage from worsening. The longer water damage goes unaddressed, the weaker affected building materials will become. Additionally, water damage will also encourage mold growth, which then causes its own issues. Knowing this, do not hesitate to seek help from a professional water damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties.

Following your call for help, professional technicians will arrive at your home to start the water damage restoration process. Using advanced water extraction and drying equipment, your home will be free of excess moisture and thoroughly dried. From there, the damage will be repaired, and your home will be restored to a clean and safe living environment once again.

If you need help with water damage, call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties today at 830-379-7474

Enjoy the Benefits of Water Damage Expertise When You Call SERVPRO in Seguin

5/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Teams are available around the clock to assist you.

Our Experienced Technicians Know Exactly How To Help

No matter the level of devastation, any water loss incident that results in water damage must be addressed promptly. Countless benefits come from hiring trained restoration professionals, and we want you to know how we can help here at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties. Whether you have had a pipe burst or your washing machine leaked water throughout your laundry room, we have the experience and equipment to get the job completed quickly and efficiently. 

When it comes to any water damage in Seguin, our skilled technicians come to your property promptly to begin the assessment portion of the process. We understand how crucial it is that you are back in your home after the loss, so we formulate a plan using our proven methods and equipment. 

Water Cleanup

At SERVPRO, we execute a great deal of water loss projects for both homes and businesses. An extensive amount of time and training goes into ensuring our technicians are ready to perform each job efficiently. Our professional technicians receive certifications as a Water Restoration Technician (WRT) via the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). 

Further training often comes in the form of:

-    Carpet Cleaning Technician (CCT)

-    Commercial Drying Specialist (CDS)

-    Applied Structural Drying (ASD)

-    Odor Control Technician (OCT)

-    Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT)

SERVPRO technicians utilize DryBook Software, which allows us to strategically plan out drying goals based on the standards set forth by the restoration industry. It also allows us to document every step of the water damage restoration process so that we can monitor everything in real-time. 

We also come fully equipped for each job with equipment made for effective water extraction and drying. Our trucks are loaded with pumps and wet-vacuums, along with air movers, dehumidifiers, and all of the products for disinfection to thwart mold growth.

Preventing Mold Growth

Water loss and flooding incidents pose a threat to homes in the area if proper precautions are not implemented to prevent mold and mildew growth. SERVPRO technicians have been trained to look for signs of mold, but we work first and foremost to keep it from festering, to begin with. The onset of mold can start within 48 hours from the water damage, with excessive moisture and humid conditions providing the ideal climate for growth. We work diligently to dry your interior, followed by the application of specialized disinfectants to inhibit mold and mildew.

You do not have to worry when you call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties to your side in the event of water damage. Contact our team at (830) 379-7474, and we will send out a team to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Why Water Damage Should Be Dried by a Water Mitigation Company

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

Don't DIY Water Damage

Water damage is both an inconvenience and a destructive force, often causing a lot of damage. Of course, it can also be expensive, even with insurance. While many would opt to clean and repair water damage on their own if they could, it’s quite the risk. That’s why we urge you to call your local water mitigation company.

Mold Growth

One of the main reasons you should have a professional disaster restoration company dry your water damage is because remaining moisture can encourage mold growth. The faster water damage is dried, the lower the odds you’ll have mold. That’s why our technicians will also apply an antimicrobial spray—to inhibit potential mold growth.

Hidden Moisture

Depending on where water damage occurs, it’s possible that water was absorbed or got behind materials. For example, in many instances, water will get behind walls or under flooring where it cannot be seen by the naked eye. A professional disaster restoration company, however, can use moisture meters and other specialized equipment to detect high levels of moisture and determine areas that need to dry.

Your Local Disaster Restoration Company

Water damage can disrupt lives, but by calling in professionals immediately, you can mitigate the impact it has over the long term. If you have water damage don’t hesitate to call us at SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties (830) 379-7474

Water Damage in Your Seguin, TX Area Home

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience Water Damage in Seguin, TX we can help!

What To Do If You Have Water Damage in your Home

Water damage in your home can be a frustrating headache. No one anticipates the issue; therefore, it’s always a major inconvenience and added expense. Particularly with broken pipes, there are several steps you need to take to start the water cleanup process.

1. Stop the Water Flow and Clear the Area

When a pipe breaks or bursts, you first need to stop the water flow. Always know how to shut off the water in your house and turn it off immediately when you notice water leaking. If there is a large amount of water, it’s a good idea to turn off electricity in the room as well. Also clear the area of any decor items, furniture and especially electronics. If there are removable rugs or floor pads, take them out of the room.

1. Call the Professionals

As tempting as it may be to handle this problem alone, it’s always a good idea to call water damage specialists. They will remove the water and assess the damage to your home. It will give you peace of mind to have professionals dry out the area, as well as items within it. One of the frustrations of having broken pipes is not just the initial water, but also the threat of mold. Professionals will check unseen places, like below flooring and within walls for moisture in order to dry them and prevent mold.

1. Check with Your Insurance Company

The next call should be to your insurance company. If you have flood insurance, that will be very useful. If not, ask for details of your homeowner’s insurance policy and what exactly it covers. Once you know this information, you can prepare your budget and work with the water removal company on payment.

Water damage from broken pipes is a problem you need to deal with immediately. You should make sure to turn off the water and electricity, call a company specializing in water removal and restoration and check your insurance policies. Following these steps will make a hectic process a little more manageable and have you on your way to a restored home. Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties if you experience any water damage 830-379-7474. We are here to help!

After Water Damage Should You Remove Your Carpet?

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

A Quick Guide on Deciding if You Should Keep Your Carpet After Water Damage Has Occurred

Dealing with the water removal, drying and disinfecting, and dehumidification following the devastating effects of water damage from a pipe break in your home in Cibolo, TX can be very upsetting. In addition, you need to see that the cause of the water damage is remedied and undergo repair or replacement of many elements of your home. How do you decide your carpet can be dried out and re-stretched to live out its normal lifespan? It may possibly be saved, but that depends on the type of water that has saturated it. There are three different categories of water that may affect the decision.

1. Clean Water: the water comes from a pipe break or leaking water supply line, then likely the carpet could be dried out and saved for re-use. If the carpet itself is heavily soiled or it is left wet for an extended period of time, it can deteriorate further. If resolved early on, the carpet can usually be saved.
2. Gray Water: Gray water comes from an overflowing toilet, or from a malfunctioning dishwasher or washing machine. It may contain urine and other bacterial or virus components but no feces and can also deteriorate. The decision to keep the carpet exposed to Gray Water is a tricky one and may depend on the speed of removal and whether an effective disinfection process can be undergone.
3. Black Water: The worst of the three categories is Black Water. It may come as a result of a sewer backup or other situation where feces, microbes or harsh chemicals may be present. It involves careful handling to extract and careful attention to subsequent disinfection and disposal of contaminated items. It requires replacing your carpets.

Call SERVPRO of Guadalupe & Gonzales Counties following a pipe break to help you take care of the necessary water removal, cleanup, and restoration of your home and belongings. They can help you make the hard decisions about whether replacing your carpet is necessary and help restore a safe and comfortable home for your family.

Are Your Walls Wet? How Can You Tell?

2/10/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO uses the right equipment to identify affected materials. SERVPRO will check for the source of moisture in your home or business.

Gypsum, aka “drywall,” is a very popular material for use in the construction of homes and offices. The material is noted for its strong fire-resistant qualities. However, drywall is also known to be incredibly susceptible to being damaged by moisture compared to many other building materials.

This is, in part, because drywall is extremely porous, readily absorbing moisture and retaining it. If the moisture content (%MC) of drywall exceeds even 1%, then the drywall can be considered “moisture-compromised” and in need of either drying or removal depending on whether or not mold has begun to grow.

Even greenboard, the “water-resistant” drywall, will be damaged by moisture if it gets past the green, water-resistant paper covering that gives greenboard its name. The majority of greenboard’s water resistance comes from the paper covering, not the drywall itself.

Because of how susceptible drywall is to be damaged by even minute amounts of moisture, it’s important to be able to accurately assess the amount of water present in drywall.

When looking for a moisture meter to use for testing drywall, some considerations include:

• Whether or not the meter has a gypsum scale.
• The range at which the meter detects moisture—the meter should be able to accurately detect very small amounts of moisture.
• Length of the pins.
• Additional scales for other materials—most professionals have to work with more than just drywall, so having a moisture meter with the ability to test other materials using different reading scales is a must.