3 Things To Remember During Roof Repair

6/27/2022 (Permalink)

A tarp should be used to cover the whole roof and protect your home from additional rain or debris.

Three Considerations for Roof Repairs

During storm season in Lake City, TN, your home may fall victim to some fierce elements. Heavy rains, wind and hail can all wreak havoc on your roof, siding and windows. After you call your insurance company, the work of repairing the roof damage and other problems begins. Here are three important things to remember during this process.

1. Not All Damage Is Visible

You may take it upon yourself to climb on top of the roof and survey what the storm has done. Just because you can’t see anything, however, doesn’t mean it doesn’t need repair. Wind damage occurs when branches and other debris are flung at your home. This can cause your shingles to break or become loose, and you may not know it’s happened until you see evidence of leakage in your attic. An inspection by flood damage experts can reveal these issues before they cause more problems.

2. Damage Does Not Automatically Mean Replacement

Most storms usually cause some roof damage, but not all of it is severe enough to warrant having to replace the entire roof. Unless the problem is severe enough to have torn up several parts of the roof, including the protective layer underneath the shingles, technicians will probably repair only the parts that need it.

3. Protection Prevents Further Damage

While the specialists are working on your roof, make sure they are protecting all the vulnerable areas when they take a break or leave for the day. Holes should be boarded up until they are repaired. If there are multiple areas of damage, a tarp should be used to cover the whole roof and protect your home from additional rain or debris.

Roof damage is common after a storm. Mitigation experts can help you identify the extent of the damage, advise you on the repairs needed and prevent further damage from happening during the process.

Steps First Responders Can Take To Work Safely in Floods

6/18/2022 (Permalink)

Working in or near a flooded area requires the right gear.

Steps For First Responders To Work Safely During Floods

As a first responder in Andersonville, TN, you know it is critical to protect yourself to be on top of your game. Working in a flooded area presents unique challenges, and taking precautions is one of the most important steps.

Wear Protective Clothing
Working in or near a flooded area requires the right gear. Be sure you have the following on hand:

• Disposable gloves, preferably on top of cut-resistant gloves
  
• Outerwear that's resistant to chemicals
  
• Boots
  
• Goggles
  
• N-95 masks
  
  

Properly discard any disposable equipment after using it.

Practice Good Hygiene
Before taking a break or at the end of your shift in a flood response area, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
When possible, avoid placing your clothing in your personal vehicle. Consider showering and washing your clothes before going home.
Avoid touching your face with work gloves. Wash your hands thoroughly after removing them.

Stay Current on Immunizations
The CDC recommends that responders have a tetanus booster every 10 years. Hepatitis B vaccines are also required for responders who work directly with patients or may be in contact with bodily fluids.
If you are working outside the U.S., you may require other vaccines. Talk to your supervisor or healthcare provider if you have questions about what shots a first responder requires.

Take Care in Standing Water
Flooded homes can have contaminated water and may need storm remediation. If you're working around gray water from washing machines, bathtubs or dishwashers or black water from sewage, follow protocols closely.
While working in standing water, watch for electrical hazards such as submerged cords or appliances. Increase ventilation when possible by opening doors or windows.
As a first responder, your well-being is vital to your work. Ensure you are up-to-date on proper procedures, vaccines and best practices when responding to a flood in Andersonville, TN.

5 Sump Pump Maintenance Tips

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

You can check if your Sump Pump is free of obstructions by pouring a few gallons into the basin.

Sump Pump Maintenance

The sump pump in your Norris, TN, home provides added confidence that you won’t have to seek out water damage repair services. If pump maintenance isn’t a part of your routine to-do list, you may not be able to count on the system working properly. Below are tips to help keep it operating as it should.

1. Verify Its Position
Although it runs quietly, it does vibrate. Those vibrations may cause to it shift enough that the float arm is unable to move freely. Ensure that the unit is upright and level, as well as clear or potential obstructions.

2. Check the Inlet Screen
Water enters through the inlet screen. This vital filter keeps debris from entering the unit and causing damage. If dirt has settled on it, it may block water from entering. It is recommended to clean the filter every six months and replace it after two years.

3. Inspect the Discharge Line
Even if the unit is working, you may still see unwanted water if it isn’t discharging correctly. A blocked discharge line may easily lead to standing water in your home. Along with checking the line for any blockage or leaks, ensure that it discharges away from the home.

4. Clean the Sump Pump
An annual deep cleaning is essential to keep your equipment running right. This involves removing and cleaning the basin and grate. Any water in the check valve should be drained, and any dirt should be cleaned out.

5. Test the Unit
After a thorough inspection and cleaning, it’s important to give the unit a test run. This task is as simple as pouring water into the basin to see if it automatically activates. This can be done multiple times throughout the year but should at least be completed annually. Be sure to conduct the test prior to heavy rains.
While a sump pump keeps the water at bay, it still requires regular maintenance. The tips above may help keep it confidently operating.

Why Commercial Insurance Can Be a Lifesaver for your Company

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

High winds can cause major damage to your property, it is important to be prepared.

Why Commercial Insurance Can Save Your Company's Life

Powerful storms sweep through parts of the country nearly every day. They cause multiple billions of dollars to companies in the U.S. every year. A business that does not have robust storm insurance is at a much greater risk of failure than other businesses. The impacts of storms are many and far-reaching:

• Extensive damage to property
  
• A business interruption
  
• A potential loss of income
  
• Added costs and expenses
  
• Harm to employees and customers
  
  

Just one bad storm is enough to cost a company many thousands of dollars. Proper insurance coverage will pay many of the expenses caused by storm damage. This will enable a company to restore and rebuild damaged property.

What Storm Insurance Covers

Every insurance policy is a little different, but a comprehensive policy typically covers damage from storms and fires. Polices are normally structured in a way to have deductibles that must first be paid before insurance payments kick in. Larger deductibles tend to reduce the overall cost of the premiums. Here are some examples of what a comprehensive insurance policy will cover:

• Roof damage caused by high winds
  
• Hail damage as the result of large hailstones
  
• Wind damage that breaks windows or doors
  
• Water damage from roof leaks
  
  

In general, so long as the damage from a storm is not caused by the failure of a company to maintain its property, many expenses will be paid through the claims process. In a big storm, this can add up to a large amount.

How Restoration Services Help

While proper insurance coverage will pay for many types of damage, a company will still need the services of a local storm restoration company in Oliver Springs, TN. These experts will arrive on the scene after a storm and restore the building to its original condition. Storm insurance is one of the main foundations of a strong business. It pays the way for a fast and successful recovery.

Identifying Black Water

3/24/2022 (Permalink)

Sewage Backup During A Storm in Oak Ridge, TN,

How to Recognize Black Water

After a serious residential flooding event in Oak Ridge, TN, the cleanup process may require you to correctly distinguish between different levels of water contamination. Consider the following procedures and water damage remediation measures when confronted with dirty water in your home.

1. Gray Water

Not all types of standing water receive the “black” designation. Under normal circumstances, water that flows from the sink or bath is termed “gray water” and does not need to undergo the same rigorous treatment process. This is because the amount of chemical and organic contaminants is lower in water that is merely used for washing. Irrigation water, such as the kind used in sprinkler systems or collected in rain barrels from roof runoff, is also typically gray water. After minor flooding, any backed-up liquids coming from these systems can usually be safely removed by hand as long as proper skin protection is maintained during water damage repair.

2. Sewage and Other Sources

Water that has made contact with sewage, sewer lines, or other forms of biological waste is designated black water by the IICRC standards. This means that a qualified HVAC service or restoration professional should perform the bulk of the cleanup. Just because the standing water is currently in the sink or tub does not automatically downgrade it to the less-problematic gray water category. Because flood water usually pervades entire floors of your home, sewage tends to contaminate any contiguous pools and pockets, making the entire water body black. To be safe, only personnel equipped with a hazmat-style protective suit and respirator should attempt to drain and clean surfaces affected by sewage.

Water damage from residential flooding doesn’t have to bring your daily routine to a halt. Whether your problem results from clogged drains, severe weather, or broken mains, you can take the first steps toward a solution by correctly identifying and avoiding black water.

3 Tips To Help You Prepare Your Home for Storm Season

1/11/2022 (Permalink)

Standing water in a garage after a storm in Oliver Springs, TN.

Protect Your Home Against Water Damage

Storms can cause a lot of damage to your home in Oliver Springs, TN, and one of the main risks is flooding. Floodwater may not seem very threatening at first, but it can compromise the structural integrity of your home and ruin many of your possessions. You can take steps, however, to protect your home against water damage caused by flooding. Here are some tips to help minimize your risk.

1. Direct Water Away From Your Home

When it rains, having water on or near your home is inevitable. It doesn't have to stay there, though. There are several ways you can control the flow of heavy rainfall:

• Keep gutters and drains clear
  
• Aim drain spouts away from the foundation
  
• Update your landscape's grading to slope away from your home
  
  

While you can't keep floodwater from rising, you can keep it at bay a little longer with good water flow planning.

2. Install a Sump Pump in Your Basement

The basement is probably the first place in a flooded building to take on damage. As the lowest point, it is the most vulnerable. While water remediation experts can repair the damage in the basement, you can prevent some of it by having a working sump pump. This machine redirects standing water out of your basement. It is also a good idea to have a backup generator or a battery backup. That way, even if the power goes out your sump pump will work.

3. Purchase Flood Insurance

If your home is damaged by flooding from a storm, your basic property insurance is probably not going to cover it. You need a separate flood policy. If you live in an area prone to flooding, you are required to have such a policy. Your insurance broker can advise on the best plan to repair your home if water damage occurs.

When storms rage, flooding is always a possibility. With a little preparation, however, you are in a better position to respond when floodwater rises.

3 Tips for Getting Rid of Odor After a Flood

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

Flood damage is easy for SERVPRO, we can help you to restore your commercial building efficiently and quickly.

After A Flood, Here Are Three Tips For Getting Rid Of Odors.

Flood water in a commercial building can lead to a lot of bad smells. Mold might start to grow, the sewage system could get backed up or the stagnant water could simply start to give off its own aroma. Lingering mold growth is a common cause of bad smells. Depending on the source of your bad odor in Clinton, TN, getting rid of the scent can be a long process. Going about the odor removal the right way may help you better eliminate the bad smells and keep them from returning.

1. Find the cause. Finding the source of the smell, whether it's inside of your building or outside, can help you get to the root of the problem. Sewage loss, for example, needs to be taken care of differently than smells caused by mold growth. Without knowing where the smells are originating from, you may not be able to truly understand the odor.

2. Disinfect the area. Clean the source of the smell. Disinfecting the area where the odor is coming from helps remove the aroma without leaving any traces behind. If this step is skipped, you may notice the scent comes back after a short time.

3. Deodorize. Finally, if you really want to get rid of a bad smell caused by flooding, you need to be sure to deodorize your building. Saving this step for last ensures you're not simply covering up the bad smell, but actually getting rid of it.

It's not always easy to find the source of a bad smell. If you really want to get rid of the unpleasant aroma associated with mold growth or other flood damages, you should turn to experts in deodorization. They will have a better idea of what to look for after a flood. It may be tempting to try to take care of the problem yourself, but simply spraying a deodorizer will only mask your problems.

Quick Guide to Mold Damage After Flooding

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

This hotel suffered a large flood that affected all 3 floors, but SERVPRO was able to extract all the water and dry up the affected area.

Mold Damage Following A Flood: A Quick Guide

It's never fun to find standing water in your Claxton, TN, commercial building. If you have to deal with flooding, you likely have a lot of questions. How can you get rid of the water? What sort of damage might this cause? Getting all your questions answered by a skilled remediation team can make the aftermath of water damage easier to deal with. If you're dealing with flooding in your building, there are a few things you should know about mold growth.

It Happens Fast

Mold can start growing in your building 24 to 48 hours after the flooding starts. This fungus can start growing so quickly for a variety of reasons:

• Mold is naturally present in the air both indoors and outdoors.
• The spores expand into colonies when exposed to water or excess moisture.
• The microscopic spores can float in the air and enter your building through vents, doors and windows, if not already present in the building.

If left unattended, mold can start growing overnight.

It Requires Quick Action

Because of how quickly mold can start to grow, you need to react quickly to a flooded building. However, this fast reaction doesn't necessarily pertain to the mold growth right away. Before you can worry about what's growing, you need to get rid of the standing water. If you choose to remediate the mold before dealing with your water problem, the mold will be able to return because there is still plenty of water in your structure.

It Comes With Other Growth

If standing water is left unattended, you may have to deal with other sorts of growth. Even clean water from a broken pipe can quickly transform into gray or black water. Gray water introduces bacteria and viruses into the equation, while black water includes sewage and harsh chemicals.

If you think your building might have a mold growth problem, you need to react as quickly as possible. Quick action can help you keep your problem small.

Five Types of Storm Shutters to Protect Your Home

8/1/2021 (Permalink)

Rolling shutters are a highly effective and more permanent solution.

Protect Your Home From High Winds

If your Norris, TN, home is at risk of storm damage from high winds, you might consider some protective measures. Storm shutters are a good option, but with such variation in quality and price, where do you start? Read on to learn about some of the different choices of storm shutters for homeowners.

1. Storm Panel

Metal storm panels are to be used only when there is an imminent threat of a hurricane or severe storm. This means that the rest of the year, your windows will be exposed. At about $7-$15 per panel, this is an extremely affordable choice for homeowners.

2. Rolling

Rolling shutters are a highly effective and more permanent solution. In addition to protection from high winds, they also offer privacy, insulation and an attractive appearance to homes. This option costs $20-$30 per square foot and is customized for every window on the house.

3. Accordion

Accordion coverings are similar to rolling shutters in that they are permanently affixed to a home in a box attached to the exterior of the building. The big difference, however, is that they are manually operated. Because of this, their price point is a little lower at $15-$25 per square foot.

4. Colonial

Colonial shutters are an aesthetically pleasing option for homes. They are similar to the decorative variety and made from metal or wood materials. They can be latched shut when a threat arrives. They come at a cost of around $200-$500 per window.

5. Bahama

Bahama awnings are permanently attached to homes with hinges. They are a great solution for warmer climates because they also provide shade. They can cost anywhere from $200-$1,000 per window.

There are many ways to protect your windows and home from the high winds and flying debris associated with hurricanes. Use your budget and personal preferences as a guide to finding the right solution for your home.

What Is a Flood Cut and Is It Important?

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

In some cases, your building in Norris, TN, may need to undergo a flood cut.

When flooding happens, building damage tends to follow. Often, that damage may require you to tear out more than you were expecting in your business. In some cases, your building in Norris, TN, may need to undergo a flood cut.

What Is a Flood Cut?

When your drywall is soaked in flood water, its porous material absorbs the moisture. This can lead to rippled, ugly walls, but worse, it could lead to contamination due to black water. A flood cut resolves this by cutting 12 or more inches above the highest point the water reached so as to remove all material that may have been exposed.

Why Are 12 Inches Necessary?
Water wicks along porous and absorbent surfaces, traveling farther than the point at which a flood directly touched them. Cutting a wide buffer out helps to ensure the contaminated material is removed entirely, restoring your building and business to being a safe environment for employees and customers again.

What if a Flood Cut Isn't Performed?
Flooding can bring with it a variety of contaminants, including chemicals and bacteria. Flood water of this type is called black water. The only way to eliminate this problem, once it occurs, is to completely remove the affected drywall.
In addition to concerns about black water, saturated drywall may retain moisture in the long term, which in turn could create an ideal environment for mold to propagate. Once mold takes root in a porous or absorbent surface, the most effective means of eliminating it is to properly dispose of the infested materials. A flood cut can clear away all dampened materials, provide aeration for remaining surfaces to dry thoroughly, and prevent the spread of mold.
If your business requires a flood cut to resolve the damage flooding caused, a professional cleanup service may be your best route. They can identify the extent of damage and whether additional problems lurk under the surface, providing you with peace of mind when you reopen your business again.

Can Water Pipes Burst In Freezing Temperatures?

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes at Oliver Springs, TN.

Make Sure Your Business Is Safe From The Severe Cold

When weather reports show severe conditions rolling in, many business owners find it helpful to prepare for the storm. While it's true your business can sustain flood damage from excessive rain, commercial storm damage often involves issues with water freezing and causing a burst pipe. Take the following basic precautions to make sure your business is safe from the severe cold in Oliver Springs, TN.

Avoid Standing Water
As temperatures plummet, water is more likely to freeze as it sits stagnant and exposed to the cold. To prevent a frozen pipe at your commercial facility, be sure all standing water is removed. Common ways to prevent sitting water during a cold spell may include the following:

• Drain pools
  
• Blow out sprinkler lines
  
• Store hoses indoors
  
  

Add Insulation
Some business owners make the mistake of believing that because a pipe is in an interior space that a burst pipe incident due to freezing is unlikely. By contrast, interior pipes are often left exposed and have little to no warm airflow reaching them. Keep interior spaces warm and consider adding insulation around pipes, in rafters and attics, under sinks, through crawl spaces and along pipes that touch exterior walls.

Keep Water Warm and Flowing
If you plan on being away from your business during the coldest hours of the day, it may be wise to take measures to prevent freezing from occurring. As always, keep your interior temperatures at or above 55 degrees, even if no employees are present. This will reduce the chance of a frozen pipeline. Additionally, leave a small trickle of water running to allow for continuous flow and movement of your water supply. Creating movement reduces the chance of freezing significantly.

Call The Local Experts
If you happened to experience a burst pipe during recent temperature drops, you should turn to a local storm restoration crew to assist you in the cleanup. Repairing the damage and preventing future freezing is the best way to get your business up and running again.

How Do I Prepare My Oak Ridge Home For a Storm?

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

It is always nerve-wracking when the weather channel warns about a large storm coming towards your city. Of course, your main concern should be the personal safety of yourself and your family. You shouldn't need to worry about your home or belongings- that can all be replaced. If a storm does occur in your hometown, SERVPRO of Oak Ridge focuses on ways to help you learn about and prepare your home for the worst. 

Secure Outdoor Items

The first thing that you can do in preparation for a storm is secure all of your outdoor items. This includes outdoor furniture like chairs, tables, and umbrellas, and other items like lawn mowers and grills. These items can cause damage if they are picked up by winds or swept away in a flood. Move these items indoors or in a garage or take measures to secure them in place.

Clear Out Gutters

Additionally, keep you gutters and downspouts clear. If heavy rains hit your city, it's important to create paths for water to flow away from your house. As long as the water has somewhere to go, it won’t stream into your home. Occasionally check your drainpipes for debris and clutter.

Sealing Your Home

Let's discuss sealing your home to prevent water leaks. Even if the rain water has a path away from your home, you should still take precautions. First, check the seal on your windows. The waterproof sealing around the outside of a window may need to be replaced over time. Also, check for holes in your siding. When electric or cable companies attach wires to the side of your house, they often drill small holes that can allow water to sneak through in the event of a flood or heavy rain water. Fortunately, these holes can be easily repaired using an affordable waterproof caulk. Small cracks that don’t cause problems during a normal rainfall can easily become a leak during flood conditions. Every year or so, take a walk around the outside of your home and check the foundation for any cracks or weakness that may allow water into your home.

If you’ve sustained storm damage recently, give us a call 24/7 at (865) 483-3911. Our team of professionals can help make it “Like it never even happened.”

What to Consider When it Rains

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

Call (865) 483-3911 for assistance if you experience any damage to your home and SERVPRO of Oak Ridge will make it "Like it never even happened."

While water damage is typically associated with events like flooding or plumbing malfunctions, another way your home or business can experience water damage is through heavy rain, which has its own set of issues regarding water damage around the house.

While any level of moisture can cause damage, heavy rain is considered rainfall at rates over 0.3 inches per hour and can work its way into much smaller vulnerabilities in your home. To help you better prepare and avoid water damage, us at SERVPRO of Oak Ridge have put together a list of how these rapid rainfall rates can cause issues.

How Heavy Rains Cause Household Water Damage

Backup of clogged gutters

Clogged gutters can cause significant damage to your home after heavy rains. If there is debris in the gutters, it will be difficult for water to drain away, which can then result in leaks from puddles as the water is left standing against the roofline.

Leaks around windows and doors

Windows and doors are supposed to be sealed against the elements, but as their weatherproofing ages, it can deteriorate as well. When heavy rains roll through, water can find its way into minuscule cracks and cause damages.

Poor drainage around the foundation

If your home is at the bottom of a hill or does not have adequate drainage around the foundation, heavy rains can build up against the base of your home and lead to leaks in your basement or crawl spaces.

Leaks in and around the roof

Roof leaks are one of the leading consequences of heavy rains, and they can sneak up suddenly. All it takes is for a shingle to be scraped away or a weak spot to form and rainwater can begin seeping in as it falls.

Malfunctioning of a sump pump system

For homes with sump pumps, doing regular maintenance and checking for issues is key—otherwise, the pump system can get overwhelmed and will not be able to effectively move water away from the home.

Leaks around chimneys and skylights

Houses with chimneys and skylights tend to be more vulnerable to heavy rains than homes without them. While they are nice features to have, the seals where they meet with the roof can grow vulnerable over time and become overwhelmed when rainfall is heavy.

Remember to stay safe and get excess water cleaned up professionally to minimize the chance of extensive damage and mold growth. Our Team at SERVPRO of Oak Ridge is ready to assist at a moment's notice with any of your water mitigation emergencies.

How to be Prepared Before and After a Severe Thunderstorm

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of West Knoxville if you have any kind of loss! (865) 483-3911.

Storm Preparedness

As storms are moving into our area SERVPRO of Oak Ridge wants our community to know what to do during severe weather as well as how to minimize damage that your home can potentially face. We have compiled information from The Red Cross that covers: How to Prepare for Thunderstorms, Responding Appropriately During a Thunderstorm, and Recovering After a Thunderstorm.

How to Prepare for Thunderstorms

• Learn about your local community’s emergency warning system for severe thunderstorms. 
• From the Oak Ridge Fire Department, “Many residences no longer have home phones but rely on their cell phone for communication. Individuals can now text the keyword ‘OAKRIDGE’, without a space, to 99411, and receive a response back containing the Community Notification Enrollment (CNE) link for the City of Oak Ridge.”  To learn more about this program please click here!

• Discuss thunderstorm safety and lightning safety with all members of your household

• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm This should be away from windows, skylights and glass doors that could be broken by strong winds or hail

• Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a severe thunderstorm

• Make trees and shrubbery more wind resistant by keeping them trimmed and removing damaged branches

• Protect your animals by ensuring that any outside buildings that house them are protected in the same way as your home

• Consult your local fire department if you are considering installing lightning rods

• Get trained in first aid and learn how to respond to emergencies

• Put together an emergency preparedness kit

Responding Appropriately During a Thunderstorm

• Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates. Watch for signs of a storm, like darkening skies, lightning flashes or increasing wind.
• Postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are likely to occur. Many people struck by lightning are not in the area where rain is occurring.
• If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, take shelter in a substantial building or in a vehicle with the windows closed. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds.
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger from lightning. If thunder roars, go indoors! The National Weather Service recommends staying inside for at least 30 minutes after the last thunder clap.
• Avoid electrical equipment and telephones. Use battery-powered TVs and radios instead.
• Shutter windows and close outside doors securely. Keep away from windows.
• Do not take a bath, shower or use plumbing.
• If you are driving, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. Avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle.
• If you are outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground; water; tall, isolated trees; and metal objects such as fences or bleachers. Picnic shelters, dugouts and sheds are NOT safe.

Recovering After a Thunderstorm

• Never drive through a flooded roadway. You cannot predict how deep the water may be.

• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms.

• Continue to listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked.

• Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or disabled.

• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

• Watch your animals closely. Keep them under your direct control.

If damage were to occur,  SERVPRO of Oak Ridge will be there to help bring you property back to the condition prior to the storm!  We are open 24/7, 365!  

There is Water in My Factory, How Do I Remove It?

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage In Business

Call a Water Restoration Service to Perform Commercial Water Removal in Your Oak Ridge Factory

Water is necessary for life and beneficial for various reasons, but it can become damaging at times. Broken pipes can cause damage to your factory, and they can stem from reasons like deteriorated water supply lines and changes in pressure. When such an incident occurs in your factory in Oak Ridge, you should act fast to prevent further water loss and call SERVPRO to restore the affected areas.

Are the technicians from your company available at any time?

We offer water removal services on a 24-hour basis because it is impossible to determine when a water emergency can arise. We can help you perform commercial water removal in your Oak Ridge factory regardless of the time the incident happened. Our technicians are ready to handle any aspect of water extraction. We have the knowledge and equipment to remove all the water from your factory before it causes additional destruction. This statement is predicated on the condition and circumstances of the structure and the water loss.

How do you ensure safety during the restoration process?

Flooding in a factory is a severe problem for the individual business, the staff members, the restorers, and the community. Many factories have an open layout that makes it easier for water to spread quickly. Therefore, restorers have to move considerably during restoration. Human safety is a priority during the restoration process. We can take several steps to ensure safety, including:

• Securing hazardous or toxic materials
• Making sure machines are shut down safely
• Switching off electric and gas supplies
• Providing safe access for emergency services

How do you dry out the wet areas?

Removing water and drying out structures, equipment, and surfaces is part of our primary business. Our team can use various types of water extraction equipment to remove the water. If the water has covered a large area, our technicians can use ride-on high volume extractors to remove it. Efficient water removal can prevent corrosion of machine surfaces and bearing complexes that came into contact with the water. Our SERVPRO team can use industrial-strength drying equipment to eliminate water from affected surfaces and items. For instance, we can place dehumidifiers strategically in the factory to allow for the swapping of damp, moisture air with drier air.

Can you rebuild affected areas?

We offer complete restoration and recovery of damaged commercial buildings. Once drying ends, we can perform structural and cosmetic repairs. We have a transparent decision-making process that lets our customers see our recommendations and why we have chosen them as the most efficient and cost-effective.

As soon as you are aware of water intrusion in your factory, call SERVPRO of Oak Ridge to remove the water and dry the affected areas. You can reach us anytime at (206) 282-9500. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

It's The Water You Don't See

12/8/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Oak Ridge.

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

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every problem as a real threat to your property. SERVPRO of Oak Ridge has the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the water damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Oak Ridge will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.

- Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls

- Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO of Oak Ridge to monitor the drying process.

-Thermohygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO of Oak Ridge Professionals can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing contaminated water loss, it is not only essential to dry the structure, but the fabric must also be disinfected and often deodorized.

- Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate, This device can also be sued to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.

-Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing problems.

Call The Cleanup Team That is Faster to Any Size Disaster

3/10/2019 (Permalink)

Flood Damage Oak Ridge Home

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), "Approximately, five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.” NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:
• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal
Inundation from Tropical
and Non-Tropical Systems • Burn Scars/Debris Flows
(Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy
rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven’t experienced a flood doesn’t mean you will not live in the future. 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the United States.
When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile® (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in your home as soon as possible.
SERVPRO® of Oak Ridge Professionals are ready to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Winter Weather Worries

1/15/2019 (Permalink)

Winter Weather

Winter weather can bring about more issues than just slippery roads and a sidewalk to shovel. If you live where temperatures sink below freezing level, you are also at risk for frozen pipes and ice dams, which can create a major disaster at your home or property.

FROZEN PIPES
Frozen pipes are often those exposed to the cold weather, such as those outside your house, or in cold areas such as basements, attics, garages or kitchen cabinets.
A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the obstruction. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly.

To prevent pipes from freezing, here are a few steps you can take, according to The American Red Cross.
-Be sure to thoroughly drain water from swimming pool and sprinkler lines, as well as outside hoses.
-Open kitchen cabinets to let warm air circulate near the plumbing.
-When the weather is frigid, let water drip from faucets that may come from exposed pipes.
-Keep your heat set to the same temperature both day and night.

ICE DAMS
Ice dams can be a little-known, but a significant problem during the snowy season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof ’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas, as well as causing gutters and shingles to move or fall.
Icicles can be an initial sign of an ice dam, according to Travelers.com. To spot ice dams inside, “check for water stains or moisture in your attic or along the ceiling of the exterior walls of your house. Water stains or moisture may be an indication that an ice dam has formed and water has penetrated the roof membrane.”
Removing an ice dam as soon as it is found is vital to help prevent damage to your property and can be done using heated cables, a roof shovel or calcium chloride ice melter.
If winter weather causes water damage to your property, SERVPRO® of Oak Ridge are only a call away, 24/7, ready to
restore to preloss condition.

Keeping Wind Damage in Check

10/29/2018 (Permalink)

When the weather turns ugly in Oak Ridge, TN, homes aren’t the only structures are risk. Business owners know they must take steps to protect their companies. While preventing a roof leak is a good strategy for protecting inventory and equipment, you can’t afford to ignore the risks of high winds. Here are four ways to protect your business from them.

1. Reinforce Garage-Style Doors

Garage-style doors often do not fare wear during inclement weather. These doors are usually large and flimsy. If your business has one, you should think about reinforcing it. Lumber or metal rods can increase the chances that your company’s garage doors will ride out the storm without damage. Moreover, if you are expecting heavy rains, you should ensure all doors are securely closed before evacuating ahead of a storm. 

2. Clear Trees and Other Debris

Damage to roofing systems can cause a roof leak. If you can keep trees and other debris from crashing through your business’s roof, you are ahead of the game. Consider trimming overhanging branches and removing landscaping waste a few times each year. 

3. Anchor Projectiles

Before severe weather hits, you should consider walking around the outside of your business. Pay special attention to possible projectiles. If you see anything that may fly freely through the air during a storm, you should anchor it. Moving hazards inside or using tie-down straps is often an effective approach. 

4. Use Tarps and Plywood

Water damage can destroy the inside of your business. If you have a damaged roof or missing shingles after a wind storm, tarps and plywood can help control water damage. Use these until you have time to schedule a total roof repair. 

If you have a roof leak or other storm damage, a reputable restoration service can likely help you return your business to its pre-storm condition. Still, with a bit of effort, you can keep wind damage in check.

Leave the Hassle of Board-Ups to the Professionals

8/20/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage

Whether after a fire, storm, or other structural disasters, boarding up damaged property is a burden that no one should ever have to go through—especially if it is your property that has been damaged.

Boarding up damaged property incorrectly could cause secondary damages such as moisture or animal intrusion, making the situation even
worse. The process of boarding up after an unexpected damage can also be as dangerous as the damage itself.

Your SERVPRO® Franchise Professionals can board up the damaged property and mitigate and remediate the original damage, providing you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

You can be ruined or you can be ready

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

Technology can now be a vital tool in preparing for emergencies or disasters, as well as during or after to stay informed of the situation and in communication with others. From common technology you already use day-to-day basis to taking a few extra steps to prepare, the following will help you be ready in the event of a disaster.

Store Information Online
There are many places to store important information securely online. Services like Google Drive and Dropbox offer a free way to store different types of files, from a Word document to images of important documents. Ready.gov suggest saving an electronic version of insurance policies, identification documents, medical records and information about your pets, if necessary.

Follow The News
Stay informed by following agencies such as FEMA, local news channels, and local government on Twitter for the most up-to-date information in a disaster situation. You can also alert first responders if rescue is needed through Twitter.

Mark Yourself Safe
The American Red Cross offers a Safe & Well check-in site to list yourself as asafe or find family and firends in situations. where communication is difficult to estabish.

Facebook also has a feature called Safety CHeck that is activated after natural disasters or crisis. You will receive a notification from Facebook if you're located in an affected area at that time.

Get In Touch
Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in your phone and email for communication with your family, friends, business contacts and others whom you may need to get in contact with before, during, or after a disaster.

Charge Up
Keep a portable charger in your car and home in case of an emergency. You may need to recharge this from time to time, but you can also buy solar-powered chargers as well.

Get an Emergency READY Profile.

SERVPRO is proud to offer Emergency READY Profiles for free and ready.SERVPRO.com to help prepare you, your property, or your business for an emergency.

By developing a SERVPRO Emergency READY Profile for your property or business, you minimize business interruption by having an immediate plan of action. Knowing what to do and what to expect in advance is the key to timely mitigation and can help minimize how water and fire damage can affect your property or business.

Put help in the palm of your hand with the Ready Plan App. Get in touch with SERVPRO of Oak Ridge today for more information on developing and ERP for your property or business.

Storm Season Is Here

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage

It may seem early but storm season is currently underway. The season begins June 1 and runs through November 30. The Eastern Pacific storm season began in mid-May and also ends November 30.

Storms can be life-threatening as well as cause serious property threatening hazards such as flooding, storm surge, high winds, and tornadoes. While the primary threat is in coastal areas. many inland areas can also be affected by these hazards, as well as by secondary events such as power outages as a result of high winds and landslides due to rainfall.

Preparation is the best protection against the dangers of a hurricane. Plan an evacuation route and your emergency plan, take inventory of your property, and take steps to protect your home and business. For more information and preparation tips, visit the Ready campaign website www.ready.gov

The Importance of Cleaning Dryer Vents

5/14/2018 (Permalink)

Clean Your Dryer Vents

According to FEMA, failure to clean home dryers causes 34% of home dryer fires. Home dryer fires cause $35 million in property loss and can even cause injury or death. To reduce the risk of these fires happening in your home, SERVPRO® of Oak Ridge can help clean dryer vents and ducts that may have lint buildup. Other tips for keeping your dryer vents clean from the National Fire Protection Agency include cleaning the lint filter before and after each load and making sure the outdoor vent flap will open and is not
restricted by snow, a bird’s nest, or other potential obstacles.
Our certified professionals can come out for a free estimate. For more information on cleaning dryer vents, contact
SERVPRO® of Oak Ridge.

Busted Pipe In Oak Ridge Home

4/17/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Oak Ridge

Water damage can happen at any time. Most of the time it is when you least expect it. Mr. Summner experienced this when he was away on vacation. A pipe burst in his ceiling, but it was not until two weeks later that a neighbor noticed the damage. The pipe had been leaking from an 18-foot ceiling. His first call was to SERVPRO of Oak Ridge. Our highly trained professionals came out immediately to asses the damage. Since the pipe had been leaking for an extended period of time there was a lot of damage. 50% of the entire ceiling had to be torn out and replaced. All of the hardwood floors in the house had to be removed. The subfloor was either dried or removed. We were able to replace the flooring. All in all, over 5000 square feet of the house was damaged. Mr. Summner was extremely pleased with how quickly and professionally our team was.

Ice Dams in Oak Ridge, TN Causing Storm Damage

9/13/2017 (Permalink)

Ice Dam Diagram

SO JUST WHAT IS AN ICE DAM?

In the latest round of winter storms in Oak Ridge, TN, ice dams are forming on roofs all throughout the region, resulting in some substantial water damages. Which begs the question, just what exactly is an ice dam?

Simply put, an ice dam occurs when a ridge of ice forms at the edge of a roof, preventing any melting snow from draining as it should, into the gutter or off of the roof. Water backs up behind the ice dam and can leak into the home, possibly damaging walls, ceilings, insulation, and other interior building materials. (See a diagram of a typical ice dam to the right.)

What are the causes of ice dams? In most cases, once the roof is covered with snow and ice, it's the result of heat and warm air released into the attic or roof space. Once enough heat and warm air builds up, it can begin melting the bottom layer of moisture on the roof. With no place to drain, water can find its way into the roof, backing up under the shingles.

Most importantly, it's critical to understand that while ice dams can cause water damage to your home, it's not advisable to ever get on a roof to try and "fix" the problem, as a wet, frozen roof is an extremely unsafe environment, even for the trained professional.

Once ice dams are present, there is little to be done that is not potentially harmful to the roof. Using tools to break the ice can result in holes in the roof and damage to shingles. There are professional companies that use steam to mitigate ice dams, but here in Knoxville, TN, it's not a common enough occurrence to warrant companies here to have that expertise.

The best way to prevent ice dams is to ensure proper ventilation and insulation within your attic. SERVPRO of Oak Ridge has the capability to mitigate and clean up water damages from the ice dam, but not remove the ice dam itself. It's best to let all the water stop infiltrating before cleaning, as there may be additional extraction and damages that occur. To find out more about our services and storm response, click here.

Storm Damage Cleanup in Oak Ridge, TN

9/13/2017 (Permalink)

Storm Damage Clean up

DID YOU KNOW?

SERVPRO of Oak Ridge has been cleaning water damages in the local Oak Ridge, TN market for over 38 years. From toilet overflows, pipe bursts, dishwasher leaks, basement floods, and much more, SERVPRO of Oak Ridge has been providing Knoxville with quality cleanup and restoration work 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. That's over 332,880 hours of being on call to help our clientele!

SERVPRO understands that even the smallest of water problems can be a major catastrophe for the average homeowner. Whether it be damaged property, mold growth, health concerns or other problems, SERVPRO has all the right tools to make it "Like It Never Even Happened®."

With over 190 years of combined experience with our technicians, SERVPRO will promptly arrive at your business or residence, assess the damage, provide a solution, and begin work to ensure that secondary damages do not occur. From extracting water, dehumidification, decontamination, mold remediation, full repairs and construction, SERVPRO is here to help day or night.

With free estimates and consultations in Knoxville, insurance billing availability, we're standing by to be of assistance to anyone in need. Find out more about all of our services here.

Be Flood Smart

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

Flood Damage In Oak Ridge, TN

BE FLOOD SMART

Floods are one the most common and widespread natural disasters in the United States. Whether your home or business is near a coastline, along city streets, in the mountains, near a river or even in the desert- there is always the potential for flood damage. Floodsmart.gov reports, in the last 5 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods. Just because you haven’t experienced a flood in the past, does not mean you won’t in the future. In fact, nearly 20% of all flood insurance claims come from moderate-to-low-risk areas. On average, floods cost 3.5 billion in annual losses in the United States

According to the American Red Cross, floods cause more damage in the U.S. every year than any other weather-related disaster. The ARC offers the following flood safety tips

Stay away from floodwaters. If you come up on a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.

If you approach a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.

If a flood does strike your home or business contact your local SERVPRO Franchise Professionals. Even minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure when not treated quickly and properly, and the cleanup is often an overwhelming task. The SERVPRO System is prepared to handle any sized disaster. When fire and water take control of your life, your local SERVPRO Franchise Professional will help you take it back.

Be Storm Smart

6/15/2017 (Permalink)

Storm Damage In Oak Ridge

Be Storm Smart

Severe weather can happen anytime, anywhere. Each year, Americans cope with an average of these following intense storms.

• 10,000 severe thunderstorms

• 5,000 floods or flash floods

• 1,000 tornadoes

• 2 land falling deadly hurricanes

Approximately 98 percent of all presidentially declared disasters are weather-related, leading to around 500 deaths per year and nearly $15 billion in damage. Knowing your risk of severe weather, taking action and being an example are just a few steps you can take to be better prepared to save your life and assist in saving the lives others.

Know Your Risk. The first step to becoming weather-ready is to understand the type of hazardous weather that can affect where you live and work, and how the weather could impact you, your business and your family. Check the weather forecast regularly, obtain a NOAA Weather Radio, and learn about Wireless Emergency Alerts. Severe weather comes in many forms and your shelter plan should include all types of local hazards.

Take Action. Take the next step in severe weather preparedness by creating a communications plan for your home and business. Put together or purchase an emergency kit. Keep important papers and valuables in a safe place.

Be an Example. Once you have taken action to prepare for severe weather, share your story with co-works and family and friends on Facebook or Twitter. Your preparedness story will inspire others to do the same.

Build An Emergency Supply Kit

• Water (one gallon per person per day)

• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)

• Manual can opener

• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• First aid kit

• Whistle to signal for help

• Clothing

• Dust masks or bandanas

• Plastic sheeting, garbage bags and duct tape

• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• Hygiene items

• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account information

• Cash

• Fire extinguisher

• Matches in a waterproof contain

Flooding Can Happen In Oak Ridge, TN

3/7/2017 (Permalink)

Flood Damage

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA), "Approximately seventy-five percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding." NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States as:

Flash Flooding
River Flooding
Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
Ice/Debris Jams
Snowmelt
Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven't experienced a flood doesn't mean you won't in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, flood cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the U.S., and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of Oak Ridge can help. They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile, or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible.