SERVPRO’s Homeowner Summer Vacation Checklist

6/28/2024 (Permalink)

This house suffered from a water loss while the homeowners were out of town.

It's summertime! Do you have a vacation coming up?  

The worst time for water damage to occur is when you’re not home. Thousands of gallons of water can cause significant amount of damage to your home in a very short amount of time. Making sure that these things are taken care of before leaving for a vacation can save you tons of time, money and headache. Here are some helpful tips for you to go over before leaving to help ensure you do not come home to a waterfall INSIDE your home: 

• Check sinks, toilets, pipes, thoroughly for any leaks that may be currently happening 

• Clean your gutters and downspouts 

• Replace supply lines regularly 

• Ask someone to check in on your home while you’re away 

• Turn off the main water valve 

• Install leak detection sensor 

• Test the stump pump 
• Only run appliances while you are home 

Came home from vacation and found the beach in your living room? Give SERVPRO of Augusta South / Wilkes & Burke County a call today at 706-750-0200 today, we are Here to Help® make it “Like it never even happened” ® !  

How to Tell if You Have a Busted Pipe

6/6/2023 (Permalink)

The most common source of water losses stems from pipes. How it happens and how it is discovered can vary greatly, however. Not all pipes, for better or worse, announce themselves and can leak out slowly over a long period of time. When these leaks go unnoticed, there is an opportunity for secondary damage, like mold, to occur. There are telltale ways of identifying a leak if you know what to look for!

The Warning Signs

1. Higher Than Normal Water Bills

A stepper bill in the summer is to be expected, with a lot of people watering their lawns more. However, if it is significantly higher-than-average, it may not be because of the time of year. Look into your bill history to confirm and usage amount!

2. Low Water Pressure

A decrease in the flow coming from faucets or flushing power can indicate a possible leak in your plumbing system. If this is not addressed, the issue could become worse.

3. Repeat Leaks

If you are continuously cleaning up puddles around water sources, there is a definite problem, and it could be fixed as soon as possible.

4. Strange Noises

In general, pipes don’t normally make noise. If you hear anything like hissing, gurgling, and banging, it is usually a sign a pipe is about to burst!

5. Discolored Water

Clean water should always be what comes out of your tap, if it is anything less, that’s a good indicator that something could be wrong. It could possibly be a problem with your mainline and you should get someone to check it immediately.

Think you need SERVPRO® of Augusta South / Wilkes & Burke Counties services? Contact us at 706-843-1990 to schedule an inspection today. We are “Here to help.®”

Water Damage to Furniture

5/6/2022 (Permalink)

Many things happen when a water loss occurs. Flooding can be a very stressful, messy situation. Determining what, if anything, can be saved is an enormous task and it truly depends on the type of furniture you have and the magnitude of the water damage. Solid furniture is less porous and therefore has a better chance of being salvaged than particle board or upholstered furniture. If you do experience a water loss, SERVPRO® of Augusta South / Wilkes & Burke Counties can aid with the restoration of your items.

The SERVPRO® Way

Our first step in restoring furniture is the inspection. SERVPRO® will examine and assess the furniture, taking plenty of photos and documenting the damage. Any furniture that cannot be restored will be separated immediately and the salvageable items will be moved to a dry area to prevent further damage. Then the area would be properly sanitized and dried to the IICRC standards to avoid microbial growth and the like from forming. Additionally, the type of water also has influence over how the piece of furniture can be restored.

Wooden Furniture

As previously stated, wood is less porous, thus giving it a better chance to be salvaged. However, have you ever placed a cup of cool water on a wooden table, leave it there for a few minutes, and when you come back to it there is a ring of water left on it. Water takes very little time to penetrate wooden furniture. On a much larger scale, extensive damage to wooden furniture is easily accumulated within hours of a water damage. If the furniture has been saturated for more than a day, it may be permanently ruined and need to be thrown out. Wood furniture also contains glue and bindings that keep them together, if they are soaked from the water, they will need to be properly restored at length which is a time and labor-intensive process.

Upholstered Furniture

There is a certain difficulty that comes along with upholstered furniture, they must be first cleaned and then dried to professional standards. Often pieces can be gently pressure treated using high temperature water that kills any bacteria or other pathogens present. After cleaning the piece of potential harmful microbes, the piece is then properly dried using SERVPRO® equipment, such as an air mover and dehumidifier. Air movers are strategically placed to pass dry air over and through the furniture, as the moisture then evaporates it gets pulled into the dehumidifier.

Mattresses

Like with upholstered furniture, the fabric absorbs moistures and fosters optimal conditions for microbial growth. It is often recommended that a wet mattress is discarded, as is may contain hazardous material. However, if the mattress was exposed to water for a very short amount of time, it may be able to be salvaged. SERVPRO® would first start by cleaning the surface of the mattress, then resting the mattress on blocks, and placing in the sun to thoroughly dry. An air mover may also be placed to speed up the drying process. If odor is noticed, it may be an indication of mildew. Mildewed mattresses must be handled by a professional, like SERVPRO®, to properly sanitize it, if there is a possibility it can be salvaged at all. If the odor persists after cleaning, the mattress should be promptly discarded. Unfortunately, if the box-spring or mattress has been fully submerged or has been sitting in stagnant water for a long period of time, the only option is to replace it. Microbial growth is inevitable with a soggy mattress and there is a risk that it has absorbed contaminants.

SERVPRO® of Augusta South / Wilkes & Burke Counties has certified technicians equipped with training and expertise to get the job done right. We can make the damage to your home and furniture “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call at (706) 843-1990.

Help! There is Contaminated Water in My House!

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage is Common

Water damage is one of the most common and serious emergencies your property can experience. Whether the cause is from a storm, flood, weakened roof, HVAC leak, overflowing appliances, or sewage backups.  It can be overwhelming and distressing to address a disaster on your property, which can lead to procrastinating taking action. However, it is important to act quickly when it is a water loss to avoid further damaging your property or risking the health of the occupants. Our team at SERVPRO® features skilled IICRC-certified technicians ready to help and guide you through the steps you should take. 

The Categories of Water

According to the IICRC standards, there are three categories of water damage. Category 1 water includes “clean water” and are caused by supply lines. Typically, the water is fairly easy to dry by a professional restoration company and there is less likely to be harmful, secondary damage. The next category is “grey water”. It consists of water that comes from toilet bowls, discharge from appliances, and sump pump backups. With category 2 water, there is a possibility of microorganisms, which is the reason why immediate action and sanitization is necessary. Lastly, there is category 3 which is “black water”, or grossly contaminated, harmful water. This category is the most extreme and extensive, and requires instant mitigation.

The Do’s and Do Not’s of Categories 2 and 3 Water

• DO: Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage
• DON’T: Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas
• DO: Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items
• DON’T: Use household fans to dry the structure, thereby spreading the contaminants.
• DO: Turn off the electricity in the home by switching off the circuit breakers and unplugging devices when it is safe to do so.
• DON’T: Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminants in the air.
• DO: Shut off the water at the valves.
• DON’T: Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated area.

SERVPRO® of Augusta South / Wilkes & Burke Counties can handle any water loss you may experience at your home. Remember, we are “Here to help.®” If you are in need assistance, call us at 706-843-1990.  

The Do’s & Don’ts of Clean Water Damage

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

Contact us at 706-843-1990 if you have recently encountered an unexpected water loss, SERVPRO® of Augusta South is, "Here to help. ®"

The Potential Risks

Water damage can occur at the most unexpected and is always inconvenient. Apart from fire, nothing is more destructive to homes than water damage. This is because water losses can cause significant issues that may require replacement of destroyed property, repairs to part of the home’s structure, and even potential relocation of occupants for several days. Additionally, if water damage is not properly taken care of and dried out to completion, there could be further extensive damage in the form of microbial growth. Below are some simple things a homeowner can and cannot do to prevent further damage to their home, while keeping themselves safe, if the water is clean.

What You Can Do:

• Turn off the source of the water if possible or contact the proper utility department to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for the wet areas of the building, ONLY if safe to do so.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and using a wet vacuum pump.
• Wipe excess water from wooden furniture AFTER removing electrical lamps and tabletop items.
• Raise furniture from wet carpet by placing wood blocks under the legs or use aluminum foil on the legs.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computer, documents, and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to a safe, dry place to prevent moisture.
• Use wooden clothespin to keep furniture skirting off damp floors – it’s best to use wood as metal could potentially rust, further damaging the fabric.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet flooring or carpet.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at a regulated room temperature.

What You Should NOT Do:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water – ALWAYS avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors that may cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet flooring as it could cause staining and harm the rug.
• Use you household, non-wet vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

If you are a new homeowner and have unfortunately experienced a water loss, SERVPRO® of Augusta South Burke & Wilkes Counties employ trained professionals that are well versed in water mitigation. SERVPRO® of Augusta South Burke & Wilkes Counties has the proper equipment, training, and ability to combat any water loss that a new homeowner may experience. Furthermore, SERVPRO® can assist new homeowners on the potential best steps they should take to prevent losses in the future.

Water Damage 101

4/18/2022 (Permalink)

The Most Common Causes of Water Damage 

Water is the most vital necessity for almost everything on the entire planet, but when it comes to home-owning it can be the most damaging. Water damage can affect buildings on many different levels. When water seeps into areas of your home that it shouldn’t be it causes many different issues. Water damage can cause warped flooring, discoloration of walls, mold and even foundation issues. Some of the most common causes of water damage are:  

Harsh Weather 

Thunderstorms, hail, and other natural disasters are primary perpetrators of water damage. When a home is left improperly defended, weather is a definite concern. Strong winds and heavy rainfall can cause potential damage to your roof, shooting rainwater directly into your home. Severe weather can even cause flooding, which can cause major losses if your home hasn’t been made flood-proof.  

Leaky Pipes 

Loose piping in a sink can leak enough water to damage any cabinetry and flooring around it. Broken pipes within walls can complicate water loss even further. Unattended water damage within walls can then create mold, which would mean the entire wall would then need to be removed and replaced.

Clogged Gutters 

A home’s gutter system is designed to draw water away from the property. However, gutters tend to get clogged with leaves, branches and other debris as time goes on. This stops rainwater from being able to flow properly through the gutters and away from your home. The water can then begin to build and seep through your roof, down the side of the home into the walls and can even pool and cause damage to the foundation.  

Blocked Drains 

Various drains within your home such as the kitchen sink, and bathtub can become clogged for several reasons. Hair, grease, dirt and even toys or utensils could block proper flowing channels. When left Un-immediately resolved, clogged drains can easily back up and cause a flooding disaster within your home.  

Leaky Water Heaters 

If your water heater is old and outdated, it is highly likely that it will spring a leak. The same issues can arise for poorly installed water heaters or even badly maintained ones. Often when a water heater leaks it is typically located in a basement where water can build up quickly.  

Washing Machine Water Supply Lines 

Your washing machine is fed by water supply lines that endure constant pressures. Braided stainless steel piping is one of the most secure forms of piping you can use attached to a washer. Problems typically arise when your washing machine has rubber or PVC supply lines. These types of piping wear out and rupture more easily, leading to quick water buildup when they do. 

SERVPRO® is Here to Help®

SERVPRO® of South Augusta is here to master any sized disaster. Locally owned and operated, we are open 24/7/365. That means that no matter the time your loss occurs we can quickly and efficiently get you back on track to preloss condition. When dealing with water damage we operate on a 1-4-8 System, which means that we are guaranteed to have come and scoped out the work and begin water cleanup and drying within 8 hours of notice of loss. At SERVPRO® we understand that time is of the essence when dealing with water damage. The longer the water sits, the more extensive and expensive the repair becomes. Preventing water damage from some of the examples above may be time consuming but can really help protect you from future damage offenses. We implore you to research some effective ways to protect your pocket and your home from dealing with water damage issues.  

Need Water Damage Cleanup Today? Give our SERVPRO® professionals a call at 706-843-1990 today to schedule a consultation. We’ll make that water damage a thing of the past! 

How to Stop Mold Growth After a Water Damage

1/1/2022 (Permalink)

Conditions For Mold Growth 

As weather changes and storm season rolls around, the potential for water damage increases as well, which could quickly result in a mold issue. Water in your home is a concerning thought for a good reason, because unattended moisture can lead to mold growth. Mold needs four things to grow: 

1. Moisture
2. Food (starch or sugar)
3. Temperature that ranges from 41°F and 104°F.
4. Oxygen

The conditions mold needs to grow is almost always met in indoor environments. The food that it needs can typically be found in the paper of drywall or even in water particles causing moisture in a wall cavity.  

Steps You Can TaketoPrevent Mold Growth 

Whether water damage is caused because of a storm or a leaky faucet, when water is trapped behind walls or paneling, the elements mold needs to grow will most likely be present. The best option is to take immediate action to mitigate the water damage to prevent mold from growing.

Start by cleaning and drying the areas that were subjected to water within 48 hours of initial damage. Afterwards be aware of any warning signs that there is mold growth, such as musty odors in the affected area. Make sure you check the exterior of the building regularly for accumulated mold water. If water is accumulating against the foundation, take extra precautions to drain water away from the structure. Keeping things dry is a key tip to prevent mold growth. 

Remove Damaged Materials 

If material is wet and can’t be completely dried, discard them and replace them with items that are more mold resistant. If you have wet insulation, replace it with new mold resistant insulation. When replacing drywall, consider selecting boards that contain mold and moisture inhibitors. All of these actions can be completed by SERVPRO® professionals from the Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties teams. Our teams are equipped with all necessary equipment, knowledge, training, and experience to expertly mitigate any issues brought forth by water damage and mold growth.

Disaster Often Strikes Unexpectedly.If you are concerned that you have a mold issue, give SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties a call today at 706-843-1990 for a consultation and expert advice.

5 Causes of Water Damage in your Commercial Business

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

How To Identify and Prevent Water Damage 

Water damage is an unexpected threat that can put a lot of stress on a business owner. It will cause you to potentially lose days or even weeks of productivity, and you could find yourself having to replace inventory and valuable equipment. 

Fun fact: The states with the highest incidents of water damage are California, Florida, Texas,New York,and Georgiatrailingvery closely behind.

If your facility has equipment that utilizes water, leakage is a danger you very potentially might face. Water heaters, air conditioners or anything that uses piping, gaskets or filters has the potential to leak. The easiest way to prevent water damage is to regularly maintain your equipment. If you notice issues that can be concerning (i.e. Rust, cracks or bulges), take preventive measures. Replace your water lines regularly and re-caulk and re-seal as issues present themselves.

Roofing, Pipes and Drains & LeakDetectionSystems 

Make sure you are checking your roof regularly. If you have a large mass of water storage on your roof, it’s only a matter of time before you have a huge water damage issue on your hands. Every inch of water equals around 5 pounds of weight. Over time the strain upon your roof will cause leakage or corruption of your roof entirely.

Fun Fact: On average, water damage will cost around $3,500.

Plumbing systems are extremely susceptible to clogs and damage. If a crack develops, even a small one, it could dump up to 250 gallons of water a day into your facility. Pay attention to outward signs of any moisture, rusting, cracking, or bulging. If you’re having plumbing work done go ahead and check for scale buildup. In addition, if your facility is exposed to low temperatures, keep your pipes always insulated to prevent freezing. Leak detection systems are very valuable as well. They can be relatively inexpensive and will sound an alarm if a leak is detected. Active leak systems will sound off an alarm and can stop a leak itself. If you have a sprinkler system, make sure to check for signs of damage or rust. Regularly replace sprinkler heads as issues surface.  

Fun Fact: Leaking roofs are the most common reason for water damage, especially in geographic areas that have a lot of freezing water, strong winds or hail.

Taking preventative measures may help decrease the risk of water damage to your facility, but of course will not eliminate them entirely. In case of water damage call SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties at 706-843-1990 and we’ll make it "Like it never even happened." 

Water Damaged Carpet in Hephzibah – SERVPRO Experts Can Revive Them

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Experienced water damage from your bathroom toilet? The experts at SERVPRO can help remediate the water and restore your home FAST. Call 706-843-1990.

Why Water Damage Hurts?

Water Damages occur for various reason and can threaten the cleanliness and structural integrity of your home. Not only is water damage an immediate threat to your home or business, but if left, standing water can very quickly ruin your flood coverings such as carpeting, vinyl, linoleum, and hardwood floors.

See Standing Water? Here’s What to Do

Call the experts – SERVPRO of Augusta South crews for immediate water extraction at 706-843-1990.

If you are searching for a preventative measure and planning, know that standing water poses a massive threat to your home. Floor coverings can be deemed unsalvageable by waiting too long for water extraction, baseboards and sheetrock will swell from absorption of water, and your home’s furniture and contents will need expert restoration from our Contents Cleaning team.

What is Water Extraction?

At SERVPRO, our teams are equipped with the best in industry equipment to help restore your home to preloss condition. Pre-loss condition from a water extraction entail using either truck mounted, or portable water extraction machines that use high powered suction to remove unwanted water on any surface including carpets, hardwood floors, and more. This extraction process is vital to being able to later place drying equipment and restoring your property. The faster SERVPRO crews arrive with extraction equipment and begin mitigation – The faster your home can be begin the drying process with SERVPRO-grade drying equipment such as air movers / fans.

Why Does SERVPRO Use Fans?

Fans, or in SERVPRO terminology – “Air Movers,” help to dry a structure by blowing hot air over a surface to help water and moisture evaporate quickly from floors, carpets, and carpet padding. Air movers can always be used to centralizing drying action for cabinetry as well. Along with air movers, you will see a dehumidifier deployed in the drying space as it is customary for humidity levels to rise. To accelerate drying measures, dehumidifiers and air movers are used in conjunction with each other to speed the drying process.

Want More Information? Call SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties to get your questions answered, ask for scheduling, or to have a crew dispatched to your home or business to help make your water loss "Like it never even happened."

SERVPRO® Provides Top Level Water Damage Help for Thomson

8/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® equipment is used to dry kitchen cabinets through the use of our Injectidry system.

Quality Work from SERVPRO® Means Faster Dry Time

If you expect water damage relief from the experts, our SERVPRO® crews offer the fastest response times compared to other teams within our industry. Our crews are ready to arrive on-site to perform water extraction and cleanup. With over 1,900 franchises nationwide, your local SERVPRO® of August South / Burke & Wilkes Counties is always nearby to execute our vision of "Like it never even happened."® For decades our crews have completed quality work, and has earned the trust and respect of the insurance industry, resulting in our clients saving revenue each year through using our restore versus replace method.

SERVPRO® Process Makes Restoration Possible

SERVPRO® is consistent with each job as we utilize a unique process of highly regimented drying and monitoring procedures. We keep a detailed record of monitoring results from each loss we report and monitor daily, helping to track drying progress and use the monitoring results for each day to gain a better understanding as to how quickly your property is drying. Our crews also take daily monitoring information to make decisions along with your insurance adjuster on how much equipment needs to be placed or taken away after each day on the loss site. One important piece of the continued job process, is job filing and dispatching, this includes:

• SERVPRO® First Notice of Loss – When you notify our team of your water damage.
• SERVPRO® Authorization to Perform Services – When you authorize for our crews to begin helping and when we set job expectations.
• SERVPRO® Customer Information Form – Taking details of your property and identifying the point of contact.
• SERVPRO® Water Damage, Equipment Validation and Drying Report – This is a daily report on how the drying is progressing.
• SERVPRO® Certificate of Satisfaction – Our team receives a final review of how satisfied you, our customer is based on how professionally the loss process was performed by SERVPRO®.

Executing the Goal of Restoring Your Property

With our dedicated team, job file processes, and advanced equipment our confidence in restoring your property to preloss condition is unmatched. At SERVPRO® of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties with a strong investment in a fruitful culture, consistent industry training for our crews, and equipping crews with the most advanced equipment, all factors help to contribute to our ability to serve and restore any size loss.

Got A Water Damage You Need Fixed Fast?

Call our office staff now at 706-843-1990 to schedule a consultation today.

Ultimate Solution for Augusta Home Water Damage

6/8/2021 (Permalink)

Water supply lines account for a lot of water damage each year. Call SERVPRO at the first sign of moisture.

Bad Refrigerator Connections Could Damage Your Augusta Home

Appliances can be a staple of comfortable living in your Augusta home. Still, they can also be costly components to widespread water damage incidents or cleanup situations that require professional support. Our team has helped in many cases where appliances were improperly installed or failed in some capacity, which led to water that required fast cleaning to prevent structural concerns or worsening conditions.

The refrigerator in your home can be the cause of Augusta water damage incidents in multiple ways. The most common of these would be an issue with the connection that supplies the unit’s ice-making or freshwater functions. When a hose gets disconnected by moving the refrigerator, the fitting erodes against the appliance itself, or any other potential problem, that small line can begin steadily spewing out water to the floor. Our SERVPRO rapid response team can help.

Water damage is not as cut and dry as it might seem to many homeowners. From the moment that water gets exposed to construction materials, flooring, and other surfaces, it begins to saturate into these materials immediately. Preventing this phenomenon is impossible, but ensuring that the moisture gets removed entirely is the only safeguard to preventing additional effects like mold growth.

Our SERVPRO professionals can arrive quickly with the equipment to rapidly extract water from the affected areas to make drying efforts begin as promptly as possible. The faster our team can begin these efforts, the less likely it becomes that structural elements and flooring materials have to get removed and later replaced. The industry-leading equipment that we use can preserve them from unnecessary demolition with penetrative drying tools like our high-powered air movers, dehumidifiers, weighted extractors, and our injectidry system, which can dry out wall cavities where moisture has gotten detected.

While appliances might be a modern convenience available in almost every home, they can also cause issues. You can always count on our SERVPRO of Augusta South/Burke & Wilkes Counties team to arrive quickly to make the mess “Like it never even happened.” Give us a call today at (706) 843-1990.

SERVPRO Can Offer Water Damage Clean-Up in Thomson

5/4/2021 (Permalink)

Appliance leaks happen quickly and cause thousands of dollars of water damage each year. SERVPRO stands ready to restore your home.

Homeowners in Thomson Can Count on SERVPRO for Water Damage Restoration   

If your property becomes damaged from leaks, SERVPRO has the expertise and knowledge to restore your Thomson residence. We have many years of experience making all of the repairs from a water leak or spill of any size. Water damage to your Thomson home can pose threats in a short amount of time. 

Our team will arrive quickly with advanced equipment for efficient extraction and drying. We will get right to work to save you money and protect affected structural elements of your home or business from oversaturation and degradation.

Appliances Often are the Culprit Causing Water Leaks

If your dishwasher has leaked and spilled onto your tile floor, and you turn off the water line to your home and mop up the water, you may think the problem has been corrected. However, in a few days, you may find that your baseboards are still wet, and moisture has seeped in your walls, allowing mold to begin to grow, damaging building materials and causing terrible odors.

Sophisticated moisture meters are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls. Once the affected area has been mopped, air movers and commercial dehumidifiers are employed to dry out the house.

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals monitor the drying process to ensure that your home is thoroughly dried to standard moisture levels. There is a marked difference made by using the proper equipment to reduce the cost to mitigate the damage. Our expert SERVPRO team members are familiar with all aspects of water removal that may be caused by

• Burst pipes  
• Leaky roof
• Overflowing water fixtures 

SERVPRO of Augusta South/Burke & Wilkes Counties can assist our neighbors in the event of a water emergency. Our team is available 24/7 to help. You can contact us at (706) 843-1990.

SERVPRO helps with Water Damage in Thomson Homes

4/22/2021 (Permalink)

Pictured: SERVPRO Production Manager places air movers and dehumidifiers to begin to dry the structure after a water damage.

Drying after a Water Damage – Stay Informed!

SERVPRO of Augusta South can help to guide you on your path to regaining normalcy in your home after a water damage. Drying a home or commercial business can often be a complex process that expertly trained professionals from SERVPRO can handle. Believe you may have unwanted water or moisture in your Thomson home? Keeping an eye on your homes condition is important. Warning signs of water damage may include but are not limited to:

• Buckling / Warped flooring
• Musty odors
• Sounds of running water, but not visible.
• Moisture in your crawlspace
• Stains and spotting

How SERVPRO Can Help

After invasive water strikes your home, we can help! Water damage can occur from various sources: toilet overflows, loose pipe fittings, water heater leaks, and more. To remove unwanted, damaging water and moisture, SERVPRO professionals can react quickly to your call. Having a team with the swiftest response times could mean less extensive damage to your home’s structure and its contents such as furniture, clothing, and sentimental items. SERVPRO of Augusta South crews are always on standby waiting for your call and are equipped with industry leading tools and training to rid your home of water damage dangers using wet and dry vacuums and pumps. After extracting as much water as possible, our crews will often apply an anti-microbial to prevent potential future mold growth and begin the process of setting drying equipment to quickly restore your home to preloss condition.

Do You Believe You Have Water Damage?

If you believe you have an underlying moisture issue in your home, know that SERVPRO crews have moisture detection tools such as: moisture meters, moisture sensors, thermo-hygrometers, and thermal imaging cameras, all to help locate problem areas.

SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties can provide you and your family 24-hour emergency water cleanup services. Call us at 706-843-1990.

What Constitutes Efficient Water Damage Remediation for Augusta Residents?

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the equipment to target areas needing drying.

SERVPRO Conducts Expert Water Damage Repairs Using Augusta-based Technicians

One of the core principles of reducing property damage and preventing microbial growth is to tackle water vapor issues. When water evaporates, it increases the humidity inside a structure, leading to microbial growth issues. SERVPRO technicians use nationally recognized water remediation techniques to reduce loss.

Dehumidification is essential to correct water damage restoration for your Augusta home. Unlike water extraction, dehumidification is relatively inefficient at dealing with large bodies of water. We use a variety of methods to increase drying efficiency. One example is creating smaller drying chambers that allow dehumidifiers to become more effective.

• Closing entranceways or windows in affected areas can reduce the cubic feet of air passing through dehumidifiers.
• Partitioning the room using 6-mil polyethylene sheeting can further increase the efficiency of dehumidification. 
• Sealing off areas and continually reducing the space for dehumidification can further speed up the restoration process. 

Return your house to its preloss condition with minimal fuss. Contact SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties at (706) 843-1990.

Water Damage Restoration in Augusta Buildings

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

Identifying Hazardous Materials in Water Damage Restoration Projects

Best known for hosting The Masters golf tournament every spring, Augusta has a metropolitan population of over 600,000 people. A fort was established in 1735, and the town was named Augusta in honor Of Princess Augusta of Saxe Gothe, who later became the mother of the British King, George III. The city is approximately two hours by car east of Atlanta. Besides hosting the masters, which draws over 200,000 visitors, the Augusta economy is primarily medical, biotechnology, and cybersecurity industries.

Residents of Augusta and visitors to the area enjoy many activities in the city, including:

• Augusta National Heritage Area
• Augusta Canal Discovery Center
• Riverwalk
• Phinizy Swamp Nature Center
• Augusta Museum of History
• Augusta National Golf Club

Augusta Canal Discovery Center & Augusta National Heritage Area

The canal runs for 13 miles and passes through three levels. The canal system was used to provide power for mills and electrical power in the city and feed the municipal water supply. The discovery center is an interactive museum documenting the history of the canal to the present day. Visitors can also take boat tours from the center.

Riverwalk

The Riverwalk is a city park that runs along the Savannah River on top of the levee protecting downtown Augusta. The trail has a total length of eight miles. There are several activities to enjoy along the way, including – the Augusta Market, the Morris Museum of Art, the Augusta Museum of History, the Jessye Norman Amphitheater, and the children's playground.

Phinizy Swamp Nature Center

The Phinizy Swamp Nature Park covers 1,100 acres of wetlands and woodlands in Augusta, Georgia. The park features miles of trails, educational resources, and access to rare wildlife. The park is a great way to spend a day enjoying nature so close to Augusta.

Augusta is a large city with many restaurants, bars, and unique things to do in the city. For example:

• Good Earth is an enclosed farmers market offering seasonal produce, plants, and goods throughout the year.
• Riverwatch Brewery and 2nd City Distilling Co are examples of several breweries providing unique food and craft beers.
• There are food tours available to enjoy and learn about local foods.
• The Imperial Theater, Miller Theater, Symphony Orchestra Augusta, The Bell Auditorium, and The Augusta players may be attractive to those who enjoy the arts.

Guidelines SERVPRO Follows When Managing Hazardous Materials

Many older buildings suffer water leaks due to old pipes and valves allowing water to leak inside walls. Construction materials used at the time of construction may contain hazardous materials such as asbestos or black mold inside the walls.

SERVPRO provides water damage restoration in Augusta residences and commercial buildings. In old buildings, we arrange for the removal of hazardous materials by qualified subcontractors. If you suspect materials with asbestos, do not disturb them. This means, do not:

• Break the material
• Cut or saw the material
• Drill or punch holes in the material
• Sanding or agitating the material
• Removing or moving the material

Contact SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties for water damage restoration services in Augusta and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (706) 843-1990.

Quick Water Damage Help for Your Thomson Home Burst Pipe

1/6/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can threaten local businesses as well. We are always Here to Help!

Cold Weather Can Mean Pipe Issues

Impending weather conditions can mean potential trouble for your home and your homes pipes. Preventing pipe bursts or various sized leaks may not be fully preventable. However, when disaster strikes, know that the professionals at SERVPRO® of Augusta South Wilkes & Burke Counties are here to help.

Thomson, GA Crews Are Standing By

If you have recently experienced a pipe burst in your Thomson home, calling SERVPRO® of Augusta South Wilkes & Burke Counties is vital to assuring that your property does not experience secondary damage due to standing water. The sooner our crews arrive on site, the sooner we can begin work and regain normalcy to your property. We have crews ready to work for you and countless pieces of equipment on standby waiting to help dry your home should you need us.

Pro Tip: Contact Your Insurance Company. Quickly contacting your insurance company for advice on determining if you need to file a claim is vital. Our professionals are familiar with essentially all insurance companies through managing countless insurance claim-related losses over the decades we have been operating in the CSRA.

Science Behind the Drying

When a Thomson home has water damage, we will need to act quickly. The faster we mobilize, the less likely your home is to experience secondary damage such as mold.

The process of drying is completed with the use of air movers. Air movers help push hot, dry air over a wet surface such as hardwood floors. This unwanted water is moved to an area of least resistance, the air. The excess moisture in the air is then pulled out of the structure’s environment through the placement of dehumidifiers.

Our Goal for You? Dry the area as quickly and efficiently as possible. We assure you an experience you can feel confident in.

Call Our Team at 706-843-1990 for SERVPRO® of Augusta South Wilkes & Burke Counties for water damage help Thomson, GA.

Water Damage Repair Calls for Skilled Restoration Technicians to Ensure Your Augusta Property Receives the Best Treatment

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let moisture take over your home. Call the professionals at SERVPRO, We're Faster to Any Size Disaster!

Calling Trained IICRC-Certified Water Damage Repair Professionals from SERVPRO To Your Augusta Home Ensures Fast, High-Quality Results

Located on the central Eastern side of Georgia state, Augusta is part of Augusta-Richmond County. It is also on the Savannah River’s fall line and its navigable portion’s head within the state’s piedmont area. The city itself was named after Saxe-Gotha Princess Augusta (1719-1772. When the 2012 United States Census was taken, Augusta-Richmond County had a population of about 197,872 – this did not include the unconsolidated cities of the region, Blythe and Hepzibah. 

Augusta remains the principal city within Augusta-Richmond County in the Metropolitan Statistical area. Augusta alone had a population of 580,270 during the 2012 U.S. Census, which made it the second-largest metro region and third-largest city within the state of Georgia. It is also the 116th-largest city within the United States. On an international level, Augusta, GA, is known for being the spring host to The Masters golf tournament each year.

Digging Deeper into Augusta, Georgia’s History and Background

Indigenous peoples had inhabited the area along the river in Augusta for many years. They relied on the river for water, transportation, and fishing. Augusta was known for use by the Native Americans as a crossing zone along the Savannah due to the location on the fall line. Just two years after Savannah was founded, the troops were sent into the upper region of the Savannah River in 1735. This expedition was headed by Noble Jones, who also created a settlement that doubled as a line of defense against French or Spanish invasion along the coastal areas.

While the Black Belt within Piedmont was developed for thriving cotton cultivation, Augusta quickly developed as a notable market town. The cotton gin invention made it more profitable to process short-staple cotton. This is a cotton-type that is very well-suited to the upland portions of the region. Years ago, the cotton plantations in Augusta and the surrounding areas had been manned by slave labor, where countless slaves got shipped into the Deep South from the Upper South. 

Within the mid-20th century, Augusta was the site of many civil rights demonstrations. A mentally disabled teenager named Charles Oatman was killed in an Augusta jail by his cellmates in 1970. A protest stemming from his turned into a riot that included about 500 participants, and half a dozen black men were found shot in the back and killed by police. Entertainer and singer James Brown were asked to come into the area to make a plea to quell tensions, which turned out to be a success. 

Taking in the Sights and Attractions in Augusta, Georgia

There are many wonderful places to see and things to do in Augusta. Whether you want to take in some local history or you want to get out to enjoy nature, there is something wonderful and memorable for everyone. Some of the top attractions in the region include:

Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History – Located on Phillips Street, this museum is right in the middle of the Historic Laney-Walker District, which is also near the initial site for the Haines Normal and Industrial Institute. This museum is driven to educate visitors while promoting the legacy of Lucy Craft Laney through literature, leadership, arts, history, and various programs and exhibits. 

Westobou Gallery – You will find this beautiful gallery located on Broad Street, where it houses a broad range of exhibitions throughout the year that includes local, regional, and national artists. There are also special viewings during the Westobou Festival. This gallery is open to the public, and admission is free, making it an excellent way to spend the day with family or by yourself for an adventure.

Augusta Canal National Heritage Area – Situated on Greene Street, this natural destination offers access by kayak, canoe, bicycle, or foot. Visitors have the option of watching wildlife or fishing from the banks. There is even the ability to take a guided tour on the water while riding on a replica of a canal cargo boat.

Meadow Garden – If you are looking for a lovely estate with an exciting history and a beautiful setting, you will enjoy Meadow Garden on Independence Drive. This was the home of one of the youngest people to sign the Declaration of Independence, a man named George Walton. This museum and historic house has been open for public viewing since 1901 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic Landmark. Tours are also available each week, Tuesday through Saturday.

Along with top attractions, many of the hottest dining spots in Augusta, GA, include:

• Frog Hollow Tavern
• Honey from the Rack
• Whiskey Bar Kitchen
• Abel Brown
• Bonefish Grill
• Boll Weevil
• The Bee’s Knees
• French Market Grille

Augusta Residents Can Trust SERVPRO to Handle Water Damage in a Fast, Efficient Manner – Call 24/7 for Prompt, Reliable Service!

A faulty appliance in your home, such as a water heater or dishwasher, can pose quite a problem in terms of damage. The longer that you wait to clean it up, the hidden moisture can bring about secondary damages and the onset of potentially harmful mold and mildew. SERVPRO is available 24 hours a day, including nights, holidays, and weekends, to handle all of your water removal and restoration needs. We are Faster to Any Size Disaster, and our crew arrives ready to get to work!

Water damage repair in Augusta is best left to skilled professionals. Because water moves along the path of least resistance, you need to look for it in various places. You must call us for repair and restoration if you notice:

• Water pooling
• Water that has infiltrated your drywall
• Saturation of your carpeting or upholstery
• Moisture that made it behind a wall or into another confined area

With our powerful pumps and moisture detection tools, we never leave any problem areas behind. When you know that you need reliable water damage repair, there is no team quite like SERVPRO of Augusta South/Burke & Wilkes Counties. Call us at (706) 843-1990 to have a crew dispatched to your property as soon as possible.

Home Lesson to Move You from Zero Investment to Real Estate Success in Augusta

11/12/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is ready to assist you and your multiple properties.

Augusta Entrepreneurs Can Learn Great Tips to Invest Locally or Nationwide

Investing in properties is one way to secure a better financial future if done correctly. It is also a realistic way of breaking from the limitations of a W2 job. Various obstacles like limited cash and lack or overload of information prevent most people from taking the plunge. Taking part in the webinar dubbed Wholesaling Real Estate in Augusta, GA, can help you clear any doubts you may have on whether real estate is for you. 

It is a free event that can benefit you in different ways, including:

• Revealing proven strategies that you can use in any part of the country
• Showing you tax code write-off's real estate offers you
• Showing you ways to start with minimal capital

The webinar is suitable for those new to real estate. It is also helpful for those with some experience and wants to move to the next level. You can follow the webinar on your phone or computer, starting from 7 AM on November 18th, 2020.

If you own several properties, you can count on SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties to help you manage water damage should your Augusta properties be affected. Call us at (706) 843-1990.

Can SERVPRO Stop Color Bleeding On Rugs During Water Removal?

9/14/2020 (Permalink)

Thomson Homeowners Do Not Want To Replace Rugs After Water Removal.

A rug is an excellent accessory in any Thomson home. From traditional-style rugs, like Grandma might have to fun and colorful rag rugs, a floor covering can make a difference to your home's atmosphere.

Unfortunately, rugs are among the items that can get damaged during a water incident. Whether the water is from inclement weather or an indoor leak, it is disheartening to see your possessions soaked. People who need water removal in Thomson want to know that the remediation team will take good care of their belongings.

Will I have to replace my rug after water removal?

Every water removal situation is individual. However, SERVPRO of August South / Burke & Wilkes Counties emphasizes restoration over replacement. We understand that you don't want to trash your prized possessions, nor do you want to spend more money than necessary.

There are cases where it is impossible to save rugs, such as floods, where raw sewage is present. However, we can clean, dry, and restore your favorite floor coverings in many cases, leaving them, "Like it never even happened."

When should I call SERVPRO?

Call us as soon as you find a leak or flood in your home. No job is too big or too small for our teams, and it is better to call sooner rather than later. The longer you leave water standing, the greater the risk of fungal growth, and the less chance we have to save your belongings. We are available 24/7, so do not wait.

 Is there anything I can do while I wait for SERVPRO?

If it is safe for you to do so, we recommend:

• Removing books, magazines, or any other colored objects from wet rugs as these can cause staining
• Placing wooden blocks or squares of aluminum foil under wooden furniture legs to protect against rust stains
• Moving the rug away from the wet carpet beneath

You can also mop or blot up excess water from the rug or carpet's surface, but please do not attempt to use a household vacuum or any other electronic device. Only carry out these tasks if the room is safe for you to enter with no sagging ceilings or other visible risks.

How does SERVPRO extract the water?

The first step in saving your rug is to extract water from the rug and the carpet or floor beneath it. Our technicians use a range of extraction tools, including:

• Free-standing pumps which are portable and can be used throughout your home providing there is a source of electricity
• Truck-mounted pumps which are suitable for larger volumes of water or where there is not a source of electricity (because they run off the truck's fuel)
• Light wands which are ideal for removing water from the surface of glued-down carpet
• Self-propelled and stationary extraction tools to pull water out of the carpet

What can you do to stop color bleeding?

We make sure your rug is clear of any colored items that could spread pigment onto it, and we keep it away from furniture that could stain it. We removed water consistently and evenly, to protect the rug and leave the pile undamaged. 

We train our technicians to the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards, so you can rest assured they are up to date on the latest industry techniques for water removal and remediation.

What about cleaning my rugs?

Our teams can certainly help you with cleaning. Before we clean, we carry out a series of tests to determine: 

• The type of fibers
• The colorfastness of the rug
• The type and level of soiling
• Any pre-existing stains or damage and how they might affect cleaning

We test for color bleeding on multi-colored rugs. We try an inconspicuous area and watch for bleeding, including color running at the end of drying, as some color does not run until the fiber is nearly dry. We test every color in the rug before commencing the next stage.

If the rug is one color, we test for color loss before we clean.

Can you help with drying too?

Yes, once the rug is clean, we dry it. We have air movers, portable heaters, and dehumidifiers on hand to hasten drying. We can also hang the carpet to let air circulate and encourage it to dry faster. If you are concerned about lingering damp smells, we can apply deodorizing products to the rug, and we can also use air scrubbers to clean the air in the room.

If you are concerned about your rugs getting water damaged, call SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties at (706) 843-1990.

Can A Home In Augusta Inventory Help If You Need Water Removal Services?

7/28/2020 (Permalink)

Home Inventory Matters For Augusta Homeowners Seeking Water Removal Services

Many people living in Augusta have experienced the frustration of water seeping onto a carpet or into an attic. There are lots of ways for water to enter your home, from broken gutters to leaking appliances, or even tree roots interfering with water lines.

When it comes to water removal in Augusta, residents are naturally worried about their precious possessions. Some items, such as family memorabilia, are irreplaceable, while others such as iPhones or iPads will not fare well if they get wet. Some furniture and clothing can be salvaged from water damage if you take action quickly enough.

How does a home inventory help?

For most homeowners, there comes the point where they have to liaise with their insurance provider about getting compensation for damaged goods. Having a home inventory helps immensely in the case of water removal. After all, if an insurance person asked you to list your possessions right now, could you do it? Most people cannot recall everything they own. A home inventory makes it easy to talk to insurers, and also helps you discuss the situation with the SERVPRO team when they arrive.

Keeping an inventory makes it much easier for you to assess what has been lost or damaged, and how much it was worth.

What should a home inventory include?

A home inventory is a list of everything in your home and its value (if you do not know the exact amount you can make an educated best guess.) For example, your list should include:

    •    All of your appliances including kitchen appliances, washers and dryers, and phones and tablets
    •    Your clothes and shoes and also accessories such as jewelry
    •    Entertainment items such as books and DVDs
    •    Personal items such as photo albums and keepsakes
    •    All your furniture

Do not forget about miscellaneous items such as knick-knacks, storage boxes, children's' toys, home office supplies, kitchen utensils, and anything stored in your attic or basement.

What is the best way to get started?

Making a full inventory can seem daunting, so we suggest you start small. Pick one single area of your home and begin there. For example, SERVPRO advises you to start with a kitchen cupboard, or a shelf in your closet, or a collection of similar items such as all your books.

If you pick one small area, you will finish it quickly, and that will motivate you to move on to the next area. You will have a full inventory before you know it!

What sort of information should I keep in the future?

It is a good idea to add new items to your inventory as soon as you purchase them. That way, you keep on top of your list and do not have to face adding scores of items at a time. When you buy a new thing for yourself or your home you should take note of:

    •    What you bought
    •    The make or brand, and the model if applicable
    •    How much you paid
    •    A description of the item
    •    The serial number if it's an electronic item

When you are completing your home inventory, try to add all of those details for the items you already own, to the best of your ability. When you purchase a new item, be sure to note down all these details in your inventory. The best way to store your list is in a spreadsheet on your computer or the cloud – keep regular backups that you can access even if something happens to your device.

Should I tell my SERVPRO technicians about my inventory?

Your inventory can help you communicate with your SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties team. If your SERVPRO technicians need to talk with your insurance adjuster, your inventory will help facilitate that conversation. If our team needs to work in a room with easily damaged items or electronics, your list can help us know what to look out for.

You can rest assured our team will be mindful of every item on your inventory. We use a range of extractors, wands, pumps, air movers, and dehumidifiers to remove water and dry your home and belongings. Every water removal project begins with an assessment of your home and the damage. Our team will put together a water removal plan that is perfectly suited to the situation.

If any of your belongings require further cleaning, you will be relieved to know that our teams have a wide range of spot cleaning solutions, extract and rinse technology, and foggers at their disposal. We remove water, dry out your home and belongings, and deodorize to get rid of any lingering damp smells and leave your house “Like it never even happened.”

If you need help with water removal, give SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties a call at (706) 843-1990.

What Should I Do if My Bathroom's Carpets Got Wet?

6/18/2020 (Permalink)

For Water Mitigation in Your Bathroom in Augusta Call SERVPRO.

Any of the rooms inside your Augusta home that have plumbing running in and out of them could suffer from a leak. Once H2O leaks from a pipe, it can follow gravity and affect your floors close to the source first.

What does water mitigation mean?

Water mitigation procedures in Augusta have to do with preventing further damage to the home as a result of the leak. For example, extracting your bathroom carpets and implementing rapid applied structural drying or ASD procedures can prevent further issues from occurring in your home.

What are water damage restoration services?

Restoration services have to do with repairing and restoring all of the problems that occurred as a result of the leak in your bathroom pipes. For instance, if your carpets got wet and its backing separated from its fibers or delaminated, then it would have to be removed and disposed of and then replaced at the end of the process.

What all takes place during the restoration and mitigation process?

Initial Inspection- The first step to the mitigation phase is to thoroughly inspect your entire property to figure out where the moisture went. We also take temperature and relative humidity readings to see if the environment is conducive to rapid drying.

Develop a Plan- Once we get moisture level reading, we then figure out what we can do to remove moisture from your structural components. If humidity levels are high, then we can set up more dehumidifiers. If the temperature is too low for drying, then we can turn the heat up in your building.

Dry Out The Structure and Restore Damaged Items- The main goal of the mitigation procedure is to remove moisture as quickly as possible so that no more issues arise. Once moisture levels are back to normal, we can then take steps to restore your home like re-install your carpets.

If the carpets in your bathroom ever get wet after a water leak, call SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties at (706) 843-1990 24/7.

Learn more about Augusta

I Need to Remove Water From My Augusta Home, What Should I Do

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Hire a Company that Offers Water Extraction and Drying Services in Augusta

Many complex systems feed into your house, and they keep everything running smoothly. An example is the water supply lines. Without water, you cannot cook, wash dishes, or take a shower, among other things. Unfortunately, a big spill or burst pipe can cause severe water damage in your house.

How can SERVPRO help?

To solve the issue, you need to contact a company that provides water cleanup services in Augusta. To guarantee the results you want to see, our team uses the most advanced restoration equipment to extract the water. To remove the water, we can use wet/dry vacuums and pumps. Water extraction helps speed up the drying process. We extract as much water as possible from affected surfaces.

Why it is crucial to act quickly

You should not wait when you notice water in your home. The most significant problem with water damage is not the standing water itself, but the moisture, which is conducive to mold infestation. It maybe necessary to remove and replace drywall and insulation. It is also essential to inspect your home’s frame for damage. Brick homes are less susceptible to water damage compared to wood houses, but rising waters can still ruin them. Our SERVPRO team can remove damaged materials properly to prevent mold development.

Do I need to use pack-out services?

Depending on the severity of the water intrusion, several inches of water might have pooled on the floor. Your possessions could get damaged. Apart from offering water removal and drying services, we also provide pack-out services to ensure that the possessions of a customer are secure and safe. Our certified technicians can determine what is salvageable and what needs to be thrown away. We can take the salvageable items to our facilities for thorough cleaning and restoration.

How can I know that my house is dry?

If there is a lot of moisture in the air, materials take longer to dry. After removing the water, we dry a home using air moving and dehumidifying equipment. We also use different moisture detection tools to check the moisture in building materials and contents of a house. They include:

    •    Moisture meters
    •    Thermo-hygrometers
    •    Moisture sensors
    •    Thermal imaging cameras

After using these devices to check for moisture, we can adjust the drying equipment if it is necessary to ensure your home is dry.

SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties provides 24-hour emergency water cleanup services. Call us any time you need water restoration services at (706) 843-1990.

For more about Augusta click here.

Water Loss Event In Your Thomson Home

2/29/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO Address Your Thomson Water Loss Event with Professional Water Extraction

If you have carpeting throughout your home and water damage occurs on any level, your carpeted floor is vulnerable. Our skilled technicians at SERVPRO focus on restoration first before replacing, so we work hard to ensure water is removed, and proper drying is in place to eliminate lingering moisture.

Extraction tools come in all shapes and forms, but when it comes to water extraction in Thomson, we may use submersible pumps to remove water, followed by a wet vacuum of some kind. We have a variety of wet vacuum attachments that allow us to successfully extract the water to get your property back to normal promptly. Just like we would dry a hardwood floor with a squeegee extraction tool, we employ the use of light wands to remove moisture from the top level of your carpeting, as well as the carpet padding below.

SERVPRO light wand technology is exceptionally successful in removing moisture and excess water from both carpets and carpet padding. However, when the water is more than an inch deep, we utilize powerful pump extraction equipment to bring the water down to a level that is much more manageable.

Not only is the light wand too excellent for removing moisture from glued carpeting, but they are helpful in other ways. SERVPRO technicians can place stationery equipment in a carpeting room to force the moisture up to the surface level. A weighted extractor helps to remove the moisture, and the light wand vacuum attachment rounds out the job so that drying is completed.

When we move through the steps for proper drying, we assess the relative humidity in the space, making sure that air movers and dehumidifiers get placed strategically to promote efficient drying times. We understand that humidity, airflow, and temperature all play a role in drying, so we monitor these things carefully to ensure the best result.

Do you need help with water extraction? We are here to help at SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties. Give us a phone call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and we can send out a team as quickly as possible to perform an assessment.

For more about Thomson click here.

Get Quick Water Damage Restoration in Your Thompson Home After a Burst Pipe

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Our experts at SERVPRO will respond quickly to reduce your chances of water loss to your property

Frozen water pipes can ruin your Thompson home, when pipes freeze, the water in them can fail to flow or slow to a trickle. Pressure in the pipe from expanding ice can cause the pipes to burst, leading to water damage. A burst pipe can spill several hundred gallons of water every hour.

When you discover that a pipe has burst, you should take immediate action to stop the leak, such as turning off the main water supply line. It is also essential to call SERVPRO to prevent additional water damage in your Thompson residence. Our technicians have the training, equipment, and experience required to solve the issue quickly. Pipes can freeze because of the following reasons:

   Poor insulation

   Fast drops in temperatures

   Thermostats that are set too low

Apart from causing inconvenience, a burst pipe can also lead to costly destruction in your property if the situation is not handled quickly. Prolonged contact with water can cause damage to carpeting and drywall. It can also cause other issues like:

Mold growth on both soft and hard surfaces. 

Rotting or softening of wood or other organic materials

The particles or minerals in the water can cause stains when it seeps into porous material like wood. 

Microbes in the water can multiply. 

Mold and bacteria can cause unpleasant odors.

These secondary issues are costlier to fix or remove from your property than the initial water and moisture. Our SERVPRO team responds quickly to emergency calls to ensure that further problems do not develop. We can examine the affected areas thoroughly and come up with the right restoration plan.

We can extract as much water as possible from your home so that we do not have to spend much time evaporating and dehumidifying the remaining moisture with drying equipment. Our team can use different types of extractors, such as electric submersible pumps, deep extraction tools, and light wands to remove water from the flooring. Removing moisture from a property is crucial. Our team can dry hardwood flooring, plaster walls, and carpeting, among other surfaces using air moving and dehumidifying equipment.

We may also remove movable ruined items such as drapes, furniture and throw rugs and take them to an offsite location for thorough cleaning and restoration. Our crew can sanitize and deodorize such items before returning them to your home. We can also sanitize your home using antimicrobial treatments.

If a pipe burst has caused water intrusion in your Augusta, Grovetown, or Waynesboro home, call SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties at (706) 843-1990 for quick restoration. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Find out more about Augusta.

SERVPRO Offers Tips for DIY Water Loss Cleanup in Augusta--But We Are Always Available to Help

11/26/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Suggest to Atlanta Homeowners that Advanced Equipment Is Often Needed for Water Removal from Leaks

Mistakes to Avoid When Performing Water Removal in Your Augusta Home

Plumbers do their best to ensure that plumbing systems work well so that buildings do not sustain water damage. However, cold weather can cause pipes to freeze and burst. Most areas of your house cannot withstand high moisture levels. If a water loss mishap happens, it can cause stains on the drywall and other porous surfaces.

If the water leakage is large, it can even cause the drywall to crumble. After experiencing water damage in your Augusta home, taking care of the situation immediately is essential. The more time you take before starting the clean-up, the more destruction your home can suffer. You can use some DIY techniques to handle the situation. However, you should avoid making some mistakes such as:

    Not protecting yourself

Standing or pooling water can be dangerous for several reasons. Slipping and falling can place you in an emergency situation of your own. Moving heavy furnishing out of harm's way may cause physical pain or injury. Remember that soaked upholstery can be very heavy.

    Using inappropriate equipment

Using towels, mops, and wet/dry vacuums may not be sufficient to dry out your home. Moisture can accumulate in subflooring and drywall, and only moisture detection equipment can detect it. Long-term damage to porous materials can occur due to improper drying. To dry your home, you need to use tools like air movers to increase circulation and evaporation rates along with dehumidifiers.

    Ignoring the details

As you are cleaning up your home, do not ignore essential details. Remove carpets and rugs to dry outside in the sun and keep your furniture safe. Check all the rooms so that you do not leave any water in them. Look out for stained ceilings and drywall since this is a sign that moisture is still in these surfaces.

Using DIY techniques to clean up after water damage can be a challenge. If you doubt your ability to handle the cleanup process yourself, it is advisable to call SERVPRO franchise professionals. We have the experience, human resources, and tools to manage this task efficiently, safely, and quickly. Our restorers can dry your home to reduce humidity levels and eliminate excess moisture. We can also remove contaminated materials and dispose of them appropriately.

Water damage can make your home susceptible to other issues like mold infestation. This makes it necessary to use industrial-strength cleaning products that can clean the affected surfaces thoroughly to prevent future problems. Our SERVPRO crew can use EPA-certified products to eliminate biological contaminants from your house.

After a water loss incident in your Grovetown, Thomson, or Waynesboro residence, SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties can assist you in restoring it to its pre-damaged state. Call us at (706) 843-1990 for restoration services. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.

How SERVPRO Remediates Water Damage in Thomson

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

This picture is from a water remediation job in Augusta. We had to remove the flooring to complete the drying process before restoration could begin.

Debris Removal and Cleanup After Thomson Water Damage

With more than 150 years of combined restoration experience in our esteemed team of professionals, we have become a trusted name for water restoration in Thomson and surrounding areas. As fast as these situations can get out of control, it becomes more apparent how vital a ‘one-stop-shop’ for mitigation, restoration, and reconstruction is for your compromised residence. Our SERVPRO team has unique training to handle both the controlled demolition and skills necessary for debris removal as well as the necessary cleaning efforts required after a disaster.

Experience and knowledge of industry standards drive us to address even water cleanup in Thomson homes with enthusiasm and confidence. We know that the only path to making water loss incidents “Like it never even happened” for your home is through our premier cleaning services. We have an entire division of qualified professionals accredited through the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) in various facets of cleaning and recovery.

Debris removal is a process overseen by our highly experienced construction professionals. As a comprehensive provider, these professionals can not only address controlled demolition needs for the house but also work to reconstruct and repair water damages fully once mitigation work completes. We offer a seamless transition between mitigation tasks like rubbish removal, drying, and extraction to fully remodeling compromised portions of your home to your precise specifications.

We have a full line of cleaning products, antibacterial agents, and deodorizers that can work to better the look and function of your property after water staining, residues, and other debris concerns. Our team of cleaning technicians works alongside the efforts of other restoration professionals in your home to provide an efficient and cost-effective water recovery solution.

As overwhelming as water loss situations can become, we have a team of qualified professionals to oversee the vital cleaning phase. You can count on our experience and industry-leading equipment whenever you need it. Give our SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties team a call today at (706) 843-1990.

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A Primer on How to Remove Water From Thomson Homes After Appliance Failures

8/22/2019 (Permalink)

Water Removal in Thomson is a Team Effort 

When your Thomson home experiences water damage from plumbing leaks, overflowing tubs and sinks, or appliance malfunction the damage can be widespread. Structural components and contents are all in the path of destruction, and a fast and integrated approach is needed. Our experienced water loss crews arrive within hours of your first call, ready to assess and plan for efficient and comprehensive water evacuation. 

Fully Stocked Trucks Avoid Delays 

Although we take care to individualize your Thomson water removal plan to reflect the specifics of your disaster, our Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) training and on the job experience give us a general context for future jobs. Our signature green service vehicles stock the water removal equipment needed to pump or extract large or small quantities of liquids on demand. We listen to your questions and explain how we intend to employ restoration industry best practices to your water removal needs. Our goal always is to return you home to preloss condition, creating a work plan that balances all these variables. 

Water Removal Basics 

Once the crew chief communicates the plan, SERVPRO technicians are on it without delay, evacuating water swiftly. If water is more in-depth than two inches, we place submersible pumps to move water out rapidly. As the depth diminishes we switch to wanded extractors, pulling fluids off surfaces. Because water can migrate through cracks and crevices, we use thermal imaging cameras to locate hidden water caches in building cavities. If trapped water is a problem, controlled demolition techniques like flood cuts or weep holes release the fluids for collection and disposal. 

Water Removal Includes Structural Drying 

We record moisture levels of wet building materials with sensitive meters. We monitor and record the numbers throughout the project, the data forming the basis for an effective drying plan. Our crew members sample moisture levels of similar structural components in non-affected areas of the building, collecting and comparing them to the damaged spaces.  These measurements help to determine a reasonable drying goal. Drying equipment also stocked on SERVPRO trucks for immediate use is positioned for optimum moisture removal effect, operating until we meet the mark. 

SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties prepares to assist with your water removal needs with highly-qualified employees and easily accessible and effective equipment. Call us at (706) 843-1990 day or night to schedule an assessment and follow through.

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Call Us For Help When Your Augusta Property Experiences A Water Damage Disaster

6/20/2019 (Permalink)

Give our crew a call anytime that you need our expertise and experience at (706) 843-1990.

Air Purification Options For Water Damaged Augusta Properties

Environmental cleaning is an important step to substantial water loss recovery for Augusta homes. There are multiple reasons that air purification and monitoring should occur regularly throughout this restoration process. Our certified professionals can help to maintain indoor air quality and remove threats with our expanding inventory of filtering equipment and air purification machines. The faster that this purification can begin, the better protected our technicians and the occupants of the house can be against potential agitators and hazards.

While many layers of damage exist when your Augusta home requires water cleanup, an often-overlooked aspect by unprofessional restoration teams is the indoor air quality. While there are less direct concerns like you might find with fire and mold damages, water loss emergencies can lead to threatening air contamination from dust, debris, mold spores, and other particulates.

With substantial loss incidents occurring in the house, often controlled demolition and reconstruction are necessary steps that must happen to return the property to preloss condition. The removal and replacement of these construction materials can generate considerable dust and debris. To keep our SERVPRO professionals from needing to wipe down every surface and exposed area extensively, we can limit the spread of this airborne dust with the use of filtering equipment like air scrubbers and negative air machines.

With the saturation of materials like carpeting and other flooring materials, the persistent moisture and dampness can lead to an influx in the volume of active mold spores in the area. Mold colonization occurs in moist conditions, and the days following a substantial water loss incident can be an ideal time for mold growth to occur. Hydroxyl generators and ozone machines can both run the air through HEPA filters to capture mold spores as small as 0.3 microns.

Air quality is an often-overlooked aspect of water loss recovery, but one of the many steps our SERVPRO of Augusta South / Burke & Wilkes Counties team takes to restore your property fully. Give our crew a call anytime that you need our expertise and experience at (706) 843-1990.

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