When experiencing water damage in your home call | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County (717)-273-MOLD
When your home is being threatened by water damage from flooding or leaks, SERVPRO of Lebanon County Professionals have the expertise to prevent or mitigate the devastating effects water damage can have in order to help preserve and restore your property.
Our Professionals have the equipment and experience necessary to handle the most challenging water damage and removal situations and are available around-the-clock. We concentrate on safely drying, deodorizing and disinfecting the areas flooded or damaged by water, utilizing the following:
Water Removal Equipment
Moisture detectors, hygrometers and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
Infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water.
Truck mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Lebanon County to find the source.
Water damage can be a hassle for homeowners, and it’s only made worse when the problem isn’t discovered until it’s too late. Water damage in and around your Lebanon house can go undetected for a long time if you don’t know how to spot it, leaving you with costly and extensive damage.
Recognizing that water damage might be a hidden issue will assist you in detecting these hidden concerns before damage occurs! There are a few vulnerable locations in your house that you can keep an eye on to guarantee water damage does not sneak in and cause serious damage.
Safeguard these spots as you work to protect your property from unexpected water damage:
Your roof. Climbing on your roof to inspect for damage is a duty that no homeowner enjoys, so it makes sense that you might discover some unexpected water damage here.
Water damage can also develop extremely gradually on your roof, so you might notice a little leak and disregard it until it starts to grow into a significant problem when the concealed leak is left unattended.
Your attic may be affected by water damage that originates on the roof, creating a different hidden problem. A dark and damp environment paired with concealed leaks and extra moisture make your roof and attic a hot spot for mold growth.
In your bathroom. You’ve probably previously had a run-in with your bathroom’s plumbing or appliances, so you may be aware of how well water damage can stay concealed in this vulnerable area.
Check for signs like water accumulating beneath your sink or a leaky faucet. Keep an eye on your toilet and bathtub as well, as they can cause similar problems such as wet patches and extra moisture.
Without a routine check, these bathroom problems can easily go undetected and lead to substantial damage. Make sure to search your bathroom for hidden damage often so you can prevent a small problem from getting worse.
Other appliances. Your bathroom isn’t the only place you should keep an eye on; your appliances can also cause sneaky problems. Water damage tends to creep around these large appliances, making it difficult to detect.
Pulling your appliances away from the wall will give you a better look and ensure that no water is accumulating beneath.
Check your appliances for damage and any unusual malfunctions so you can stop water before it finds a hiding spot. Remember to retire old appliances as soon as you can, so that you can avoid problems before they arise.
Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!
This photo shows our drying equipment in action mitigating this water loss
Here we had a standard water loss, pipe break, damages a small portion of ceiling, part of a wall and 80-90% of the floor in the entire space downstairs
Carpet was saturated and found to be de-laminated (back of carpet separates making the carpet unable to be re-stretched, becomes non-salvageable and needs to be replaced), mitigation was a standard removal of necessary material (because it was CAT2 water…clean CAT1 water with a little contamination - there are domestic animals who live in the space) and then drying equipment placed.
This customer then wanted to make some upgrades so as a General Contractor we worked through that process writing a rebuild for their insurance company and then a separate rebuild of what they were looking for, helping them meet their desires within an out of pocket budget.
If this happens in your home be sure to call SERVPRO Lebanon County at 717-273-MOLD
Understanding Appliance-Related Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
Close up of a water heater that has leaked on a concrete floor. If this happens to you be sure to call 717-273-MOLD
Household appliances offer a quick hand to complete tasks that would take us days to complete without them. Your appliances save you time and money every day, but if they break down and cause water damage, they could cost you!
Water damage in your Lebanon home can take many forms, and water-reliant appliances are a major source of this devastation. Issues only become more of a headache when appliance-related water damage is left untreated.
A little prevention knowledge and regular upkeep can help you prevent most instances of water damage.
Regular Maintenance
All it takes to prevent water damage early on is some consistent investigation skills! Looking for any warning signs of water damage on a regular basis will prevent a huge emergency in the future.
Refrigerator or dishwasher leakage is an issue that can be practically invisible without a closer look, so you’ll need to know what to look for. Move your appliance to the side and search for any wet spots, excess moisture or signs of mold growth.
Your HVAC system could use some close upkeep as well to keep everything flowing smoothly. You’ll never miss a water concern as long as you schedule a yearly inspection and check your vents and unit often. These actions could save your home from damage and your wallet from costly repairs!
The water heater is another typical cause of water damage that should not be ignored. Keep your heater in check by consistently searching for any noticeable signs of moisture.
Yearly or Long-Term Maintenance
A little inspection work every few weeks or months can make a huge difference in avoiding water loss, but you could also benefit from adhering to the maintenance schedule listed by the manufacturer.
Make sure the hoses and tubes connected to your fridge, washing machine and dishwasher are free of punctures, bubbling or any other indicators of damage. You should have any issues you catch repaired or replaced quickly to keep your appliance in good shape.
Keep everything running smoothly by scheduling repairs as issues emerge and retiring old appliances at least every 10 to 15 years.
Keep an eye on your appliances because even the smallest leak can lead to a massive water emergency over time. You can keep life convenient by giving your household appliances the close attention they require.
Have water damage in your home from an appliance or another source? Our team is here to help, so call us day or night. SERVPRO of Lebanon County 717-273-MOLD
What You Can do to Stay on Top of Commercial Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
SERVPRO of Lebanon County are your local commercial restoration company. We will always be here to help and get you back in business.
The results can be devastating when your business is suddenly impacted by water damage.
Flooding can originate from many places inside your building. Internal sources like a busted pipe or a leaky roof can halt productivity and ruin every inch of your commercial property. Natural causes like inclement weather can even more destroy your business when you least expect it.
Strong storms, heavy rainfall and nearby hurricanes all create flash floods in Lebanon. Situations like this hit our local businesses hard and can leave them vulnerable to even more damage in the future.
Knowing what to do when these emergencies occur can help you deal with the remnants of a disaster much more easily. This guide will enable you to take care of any disaster as quickly as possible so your business doesn’t suffer too much damage.
Know Your Building’s Layout
Locate the main water cutoff points around your building. Knowing how to find and shut off sources like your fire sprinkler or the main water valve will allow for a much quicker response and the mitigation of water damage.
Make sure to pass this information along to trusted members of your team and run them through this process. The more people who understand how to stop water at the source, the less damage your building will sustain.
Know the Types of Water Involved
The type of water produced when water damage strikes can help you understand the severity of the situation. Understanding what kind of water has flooded your property will allow you to take adequate measures.
White water: Plumbing failures are typically to blame for this kind of water. You can safely manage this water yourself in tiny quantities and is not regarded as contaminated.
Gray water: This kind of flooding is caused by overflowing toilet tanks and sink drains. Although it’s contaminated, this water is not recognized as hazardous.
Black water: Heavily contaminated black water is frequently produced by sewage blockages and storm flooding. This dangerous water should be handled by a trained professional.
Take Action Quickly
When dealing with water damage, you need to find the water source and swiftly turn it off. Open windows and doors to allow your building to dry a bit faster. After that, inform everyone inside the structure that the impacted areas are off-limits.
After getting the emergency under control, record any damage around your building. This will facilitate filing your insurance claim and be useful when determining which areas of your building require the most strengthening.
Remember to Be Patient
Only a portion of your building’s total concern is represented by the apparent water damage. It’s possible that you have hidden water damage without even being aware of it.
When water infiltrates your commercial property, SERVPRO of Lebanon County is the team to call. Our experienced repair crew can thoroughly dry out your building using cutting-edge tools and rapidly complete a full restoration.
While our team works to repair your building, we’ll keep you to informed throughout the entire process. As soon as we are complete, you and your team will be safe to get back to work!
When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Reach out24⁄7 to get started!
The 3 Major Sources of Storm Damage | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, make SERVPRO of Lebanon County your first call.
Severe storms can be devastating for homeowners and can lead to costly damage that must be repaired. While some homeowners believe their home is prepared for this severe weather, many times they are proven wrong when an extreme storm passes through and creates significant losses inside and outside their property.
Strong winds and weather-related calamities can throw around debris as well as create heavy rains, hail storms, lightning and floods. Depending on the season and the type of storm, they are all a threat to your home and any of your belongings.
Depending on the kind of storm and events taking place, your home may be subject to different degrees of destruction. Multiple elements play a part in determining the intensity of potential damage, like the landscape around your property, the geography of the area and the quality of your home’s foundation or building materials. (We’re not going to deny that there is an element of chance as well.)
Being knowledgeable about the many kinds of weather threats is helpful, but understanding the specific conditions that frequently affect our area is even more beneficial. Lebanon faces thunderstorms, winter storms and flooding frequently. This weather has led to significant damage to properties all over our area.
To better prepare you for extreme weather, let’s examine the three primary types of storm damage:
Wind
When structures are subjected to powerful gusts of wind at extraordinarily high speeds, this type of destruction ensues. Tornadoes and hurricanes are the most common causes of strong winds, but thunderstorms can produce gusts of up to 100 mph.
Wind gusts might scoop up debris in your yard and toss it into your car or house. And the wind itself can also be powerful enough to rip shingles off the roof. It is critical to remain inside when a storm is on the way and away from any windows or outside walls in case glass breaks or the walls are pierced by debris.
Prepare your yard before a storm touches down to prevent excessive damage due to wind. Clean up any branches, large rocks, unsecured furniture or decaying trees to give strong wind gusts less to work with once they start blowing.
Water
Water damage is known to cause costly damage inside homes before and after a storm. Even a small storm can produce rain showers that cause water to collect outside your home and then leak inside through the seals on your doors and windows.
When there is a significant amount of water, it may soak into your foundation and seriously destroy its structural integrity.
Try utilizing strategic landscaping methods that help to direct water away from your property to minimize the degree of damage that water may do to your property. Alternatively, you could build a rain garden, which will help prevent water from accumulating near your home and make it look beautiful at the same time!
Also, be sure to keep your gutters clear of debris so they function as intended during severe weather. Clogged downspouts create backed-up water, which builds up until it eventually begins to leak down into your home.
Impact
“Impact damage” is another form of storm destruction that can have a devastating effect on your home. This damage presents itself as downed trees or debris being thrown into your home by heavy winds. Impact damage encompasses any damage done when an object hits or impacts your house or property.
To best avoid this type of damage, trim any branches that are near your home and have any decaying trees removed. This will prevent Mother Nature from sending them down onto your property.
Weather-related calamities cost more than $145 billion in losses in 2021 in the United States alone. These methods could help you save a significant amount of time and money and can help you prevent damage from occurring before a storm gets the chance to wreak havoc on your home.
Give SERVPRO of Lebanon County a call immediately if your household faces the devastating impact of severe storms. With state-of-the-art equipment and years of experience, our restoration specialists can handle any tragedy.
When you suffer storm-related damage to your home or business, it’s important that you know who to call! Contact us today to get your storm damage restoration started faster.
How Can I Tell if My Basement Has Water Damage? | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
If you have experienced any signs of water damage in your basement, give SERVPRO of Lebanon County today! 717-273-6653
Basements are a wonderful addition to any home. While it’s a great place for additional storage, a “bonus” room or an at-home gym, it can also act as a safe place to go during the event of seriously inclement weather.
However, due to the nature of how basements are dug into the ground, they can come with their own challenges, particularly water damage. While it’s not a guarantee that your basement will suffer water damage, many homes do for a variety of reasons.
Because of this, it’s good to be extra vigilant for signs of water damage so that you can prevent any further damage later on. Here will be looking at some signs of water damage so that you can keep your basement in peak condition.
3 Top Signs That There Is Water Damage In a Basement
Musky, unpleasant odors. Water that gets into a basement can remain stagnant for quite some time, and when it evaporates, it can leave quite an unpleasant smell. This pungent odor is almost exclusively caused by mold and mildew in the environment, so if you suspect that it’s just the common “musty smell” that most basements have, remember that this is a common misconception and it may be a serious red flag leading to water damage.
Flaking paint from the walls. Waterproof paint is sometimes adhered to interior basement walls and masonry with all good intentions by homeowners and landlords. However, this paint can oftentimes simply mask any issues related to water damage and results in compounded problems later on. Even though it’s classified as waterproof, it’s still possible for this paint to chip, peel and bubble on the surface under the right circumstances.
Foundational cracks. Cracks in homes can sometimes be caused by the house settling over time, but finding cracks in the foundation should be investigated as it may be a sign of water damage. Hairline cracks aren’t a major cause for immediate concern, but if they grow in size or width, they should be seen and treated by a professional immediately
If you have experienced any of these signs of water damage in your basement, give us a call. We’ll be happy to have our water restoration technicians review the damage and give you an assessment on how we can help treat it properly. Contact SERVPRO of Lebanon County today!
Don’t Overlook the Water Damage Risks Heavy Rain Can Bring | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
SERVPRO of Lebanon County is here to help restore your home to its original state. Contact us today! (717) 273 - MOLD
Heavy rains might not be the first thing you think about when you list water damage causes. But it can be a serious problem for homeowners. Rain is common during the spring and summer months, and if your home is not properly maintained, these rains can cause costly damage.
It’s not as difficult as you might think to lessen your risk, though. A little creativity and some thoughtful planning can go a long way.
Protecting Your Home From the Hazard of Heavy Rains
We have a wealth of experience dealing with home water damage. We know what causes it and what you can do to make your home safer from it.
Here are some things we think you should keep in mind when you want to protect your home from rain damage:
Don’t allow yard drainage issues to go unaddressed. If you realize the water in your yard drains toward your home, it’s time to invest in your yard to help it move water more efficiently. Water moving away from your home is water that can’t damage it. Talk with a landscaping expert about how you can protect your yard.
Choose your flowers and shrubs for more than curb appeal. Most homeowners don’t look beyond the visual appeal of the landscaping they choose. But your landscaping can do more for you than just add color. Native plants are especially effective when it comes to making your landscaping an extra layer of water damage protection.
Repair loose and missing shingles. How important is repairing your roof when it suffers minor damage? The answer is very important. According to industry experts, 95% of damage is caused by water finding its way through gaps in your shingles. This damage is preventable.
If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, SERVPRO of Lebanon County is here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available 24⁄7 in the event of an emergency.Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.
Water Damage Restoration 101 | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
When your home is being threatened by water damage from flooding or leaks, SERVPRO of Lebanon County Professionals have the expertise to prevent or mitigate the devastating effects water damage can have in order to help preserve and restore your property.
Our Professionals have the equipment and experience necessary to handle the most challenging water damage and removal situations and are available around-the-clock. We concentrate on safely drying, deodorizing and disinfecting the areas flooded or damaged by water, utilizing the following:
Water Removal Equipment
Moisture detectors, hygrometers and other meters measure the extent of moisture saturation.
Infrared camera may be used to identify water location for thorough water removal.
Submersible and gas-powered pumps for continuous pumping of high-level water.
Truck mounted and portable extraction units perform efficient water removal.
Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO of Lebanon County has the team to help you recover from any disastrous event.
Did you know flooding is the most common natural disaster, claiming more lives in the United States per year than hurricanes, tornadoes or lightning? Flooding is difficult to predict and can destroy anywhere from a single home to entire communities.
Although floods affect every state and territory in the United States, they share many similarities in types and causes. There are just a few types of natural flooding you may see throughout the year.
<h4of-natural-flooding">Types of Natural Flooding
Flash floods are common, and they happen when heavy rain passes or sits over an area and overwhelms the ability of the ground to contain the moisture. Flash flooding can strike alone or accompany a larger problem, such as a hurricane. In 2021, Hurricane Ida dumped multiple inches of rain at once, leading the National Weather Service to release several Flash Flooding Emergencies.
River floods are exactly what they sound like. When there’s too much water for a river’s banks to hold, the water spills over the sides and causes destruction.
Coastal floods happen in areas next to large bodies of water, when storm surges or cyclonic activity causes ocean or gulf levels to rise to flood levels.
<h4causes-of-natural-flooding">Common Causes of Natural Flooding
Heavy rainfall. Storms with excessive rainfall, or storms that sit and rest over an area for an extended period can cause flash floods or river flooding. Urban areas are more at risk for rain floods, because the higher percentage of concrete and asphalt means there’s a lack of soil to soak up all that water.
Oceanic activity. Storm surges, hurricanes and rising tides can cause water levels to rise in waves, which can invade coastal communities and wreak havoc. Pennsylvania, as a water-adjacent state, is susceptible to the fury of storm surges and hurricanes. Most recently, Hurricane Ida dumped multiple inches of rain on central Pennsylvania, leading to flooded roads and creeks.
Dams and levees failing. The most notable example of this in recent history would be the disastrous levee breaks during 2005’s Hurricane Katrina. Levees and dams fail when cracks occur or excess pressure overtakes the dam’s ability to contain the surge of water behind it.
Snowmelts and ice dams. In areas of the country where heavy snow and prolonged freezing temperatures are common, snow and ice can build up over a winter’s time, and when they start to melt, they cause rivers of water to flow through area communities. Ice dams or ice jams happen when rivers become blocked by built-up ice being carried downstream, causing the banks to overflow.
Regardless of the cause of the flooding, SERVPRO has the tools and teams to help your home or business recover from its disastrous effects. Contact us anytime when flooding or water damage makes a mess in your life.
The SERVPRO Process for Water Damage Restoration | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO of Lebanon County for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration.
Sudden water damage is an issue for 14,000 Americans every single day. That’s a tenth of the entire population of Lebanon County, all springing a leak, every day.
If the misfortune of water damage should happen to you, we certainly hope you’ll entrust SERVPRO with your cleanup and care. Here’s what you can expect when you enlist our help.
Emergency Contact. When we first chat, we’ll ask some questions to help shape our understanding of the issue and its potential effects on your property. Then we’ll figure out the best time for us to arrive for in-person assessment.
Inspection and Water Damage Assessment. Once we pull up to your home, we can look over the damage and property, and stop the source of water leakage if it’s still occurring. Then we’ll go forward with the plan, apprise you of any items that we estimate will need removal and replacement, and warn you about any hazards the damage may have created.
Water Removal. Removal begins with the arrival of our pump trucks, which will remove the standing water from your home. We’ll go to whatever lengths are necessary to see to it that your home gets back in the dry.
Damaged Material Removal. Now we can get to those items which are beyond restoration. We’ll haul them away, leaving us to work with the areas and items which can be restored.
Cleaning, Sanitizing and Deodorization. Of course, the water doesn’t leave cleanly, does it? It will have left behind stains and other unpleasantness, which we can now scrub away.
Drying. Excess moisture will still be in the air and on your surfaces, and that breeds mold after a short while. So we’ll use specialized equipment and techniques to rid every affected surface of moisture, giving you the dehumidified area you need.
Monitoring. We’ll be watching, always watching. Your SERVPRO professionals will be in regular contact, keeping you updated on the situation and making any needed changes to the game plan.
Repairs and Construction. Depending on your situation, there could be anything from some simple carpet replacement to drywall and full area reconstruction. That’s the final step for us, leaving you with a seamless, fully restored or reconstructed home, free of the slightest hint of damage. We’ll make it Like It Never Even Happened.
When water damage strikes, make the call to SERVPRO for A-to-Z cleanup and restoration. We’ll make your damaged property look “Like It Never Even Happened.”
Water Damage Numbers That Will Wow You | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO of Lebanon County.
Not to cause alarm, but there’s a struggle coursing through your home right this very moment, wherein a squadron of heavily armored heroes at working their hardest, holding at bay a destructive force that could devastate your peaceful abode.
This struggle, of course, is between your plumbing and the water it transports. You guessed it right away, didn’t you?
Your water supply is great, so long as it’s serving its proper purpose. But the minute it breaks containment, you’ve got a problem. That’s why it’s all-important to have a well-equipped and maintained plumbing system—so that the good guys always stay on top.
The widespread damage done by water in the home is overwhelming—check out these numbers.
24. This is the percentage of all U.S. home insurance claims that are water-involved. That’s one out of every four claims, which adds up to one in 50 homeowners filing a water claim every single year.
48. You have this many hours (or less) to deal with a water damage incident before mold sets in. Mold growth begins rapidly once water soaks into a surface, and it’s present well before you can make it out with your eyes.
98. This one’s admittedly a little disheartening, because it represents the number out of every 100 basements that will flood or experience water damage at some point in the life of a home. If there’s any number on this list you can almost count on, it’s this one.
10,234. The amount of the average water claim. Water is fast to take over a whole area, and it can settle in and do a lot of damage very quickly. Once it gets out, your insurance company is likely to have to shell out more than they’d hope to manage repairs.
14,000. If you have today’s date circled on your desk calendar, look down and try to imagine 14,000 little dots inside it, each of them representing a single water claim that will happen somewhere in the United States today, because that’s what’s going to happen. Every six seconds, a new event is occurring.
13,000,000,000. Those zeroes are not a typo—that’s 13 billion, and it represents the amount, in dollars, spent every year on water damage repairs in homes.
All these numbers serve to show you one thing: It’s incredibly important to take care of leaks early, and to maintain and update your plumbing, sewage and water systems. The more you can do to avoid being one of these statistics, the better.
If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO to see how we can quickly and fully restore water damage to your home or business.
Where You Might Find Water Damage at Home | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of Lebanon County team if you are dealing with any water damage.
There’s a fair chance you didn’t go to bed last night wishing upon a star that you could wake up this morning to a flooded garage. Dealing with unexpected water damage is on no homeowner’s list of hopeful tasks.
Obviously we can’t predict external factors like flooding, but there are some places in and around your home that you may be able monitor and gain an advantage as you try to keep the likelihood of water damage to a minimum.
Toilets. There are a few spots in this oft-used appliance that can degrade over time, namely the flapper inside the tank and the valve seal under it. These being rubber makes them prone to wear.
Appliances. Toilets, dishwashers, fridges and any appliance that uses water or feeds from your water supply are prone to leaks, especially from hoses that may dry out or crack, and joints where washer rings may decay. And how old is your water heater? Units over 10 years old have actually been known to explode.
Clogged gutters. This is the most preventable leak at home. Some time on the ladder can keep your gutters in tip-top shape and keep leaves and dirt from damming up the gullies and sending water inside.
Roof damage. Roof care is a whole other topic, but for now, let’s simply say that your roof is an incredibly important source of protection from the elements, and keeping it in good condition will help keep your interior dry. Inspect it regularly and after any major storm.
Blocked garbage disposals or other pipes.Putting the wrong things down your disposal can either cause your disposal to stop working or clog your pipes to the point of backup. Anything that clumps, solidifies or expands as it soaks up water is a no-no.
Water leaks can occur anywhere water flows, because water will find and take advantage of any available space. But keeping an eye on these common leak areas may help you stay ahead of the potential for water damage in your home.
If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.
SERVPRO of Lebanon County responds to Speedwell Heights BIC Church days before a wedding.
Days before a wedding event, Speedwell Heights BIC contacted SERVPRO of Lebanon County about their water damage in the basement. The source of this damage came from a defective dehumidifier that leaked water in the basement of the church. SERVPRO of Lebanon County quickly responded to this call on a Thursday. Our technicians were able to dry everything out and deodorize in time for the wedding that following Saturday.
When dealing with a water damage, it is important to act fast to prevent further damage and possible mold growth. Our highly trained technicians will have your home or business “Like it never even happened.” Contact SERVPRO of Lebanon County at 717-300-3347 or visit our website for all of your water damage needs.
How Can I Tell if My Basement Has Water Damage? | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
SERVPRO of Lebanon County is a full restoration company. Our team is on call and ready to help you determine the best course of action.
Basements are a wonderful addition to any home. While it’s a great place for additional storage, a “bonus” room or an at-home gym, it can also act as a safe place to go during the event of seriously inclement weather.
However, due to the nature of how basements are dug into the ground, they can come with their own challenges, particularly water damage. While it’s not a guarantee that your basement will suffer water damage, many homes do for a variety of reasons.
Because of this, it’s good to be extra vigilant for signs of water damage so that you can prevent any further damage later on. Here will be looking at some signs of water damage so that you can keep your basement in peak condition.
3 Top Signs That There Is Water Damage In a Basement
Musky, unpleasant odors. Water that gets into a basement can remain stagnant for quite some time, and when it evaporates, it can leave quite an unpleasant smell. This pungent odor is almost exclusively caused by mold and mildew in the environment, so if you suspect that it’s just the common “musty smell” that most basements have, remember that this is a common misconception and it may be a serious red flag leading to water damage.
Flaking paint from the walls. Waterproof paint is sometimes adhered to interior basement walls and masonry with all good intentions by homeowners and landlords. However, this paint can oftentimes simply mask any issues related to water damage and results in compounded problems later on. Even though it’s classified as waterproof, it’s still possible for this paint to chip, peel and bubble on the surface under the right circumstances.
Foundational cracks. Cracks in homes can sometimes be caused by the house settling over time, but finding cracks in the foundation should be investigated as it may be a sign of water damage. Hairline cracks aren’t a major cause for immediate concern, but if they grow in size or width, they should be seen and treated by a professional immediately.
If you have experienced any of these signs of water damage in your basement, give us a call. We’ll be happy to have our water restoration technicians review the damage and give you an assessment on how we can help treat it properly. Contact us today!
Don’t Overlook the Water Damage Risks Heavy Rain Can Bring | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
Heavy rains might not be the first thing you think about when you list water damage causes. But it can be a serious problem for homeowners. Rain is common during the spring and summer months, and if your home is not properly maintained, these rains can cause costly damage.
It’s not as difficult as you might think to lessen your risk, though. A little creativity and some thoughtful planning can go a long way.
Protecting Your Home From the Hazard of Heavy Rains
We have a wealth of experience dealing with home water damage. We know what causes it and what you can do to make your home safer from it.
Here are some things we think you should keep in mind when you want to protect your home from rain damage:
Don’t allow yard drainage issues to go unaddressed. If you realize the water in your yard drains toward your home, it’s time to invest in your yard to help it move water more efficiently. Water moving away from your home is water that can’t damage it. Talk with a landscaping expert about how you can protect your yard.
Choose your flowers and shrubs for more than curb appeal. Most homeowners don’t look beyond the visual appeal of the landscaping they choose. But your landscaping can do more for you than just add color. Native plants are especially effective when it comes to making your landscaping an extra layer of water damage protection.
Repair loose and missing shingles. How important is repairing your roof when it suffers minor damage? The answer is very important. According to industry experts, 95% of damage is caused by water finding its way through gaps in your shingles. This damage is preventable.
If you need help dealing with damage caused by water, fire or any other issue, SERVPRO of Lebanon County is here to help you restore your home. We have crews who are available 24⁄7 in the event of an emergency. Contact us at any time to learn more about us and how we can help you restore your home to its original state.
Do you have any water damage to your walls or ceiling? Contact SERVPRO of Lebanon County, we will help guide you through the restoration process.
Jonestown and surrounding area homeowners like you may wonder when they should seek water damage help.
Sometimes leaks that are caught early can be cleaned up with old towels or a mop. But in other cases, you may need professional help to return your home to its original state—or perhaps even more important, to prevent a water damage issue from growing into a major mold or mildew issue.
How to Spot Water Damage
These are some of the most common early signs that you’re dealing with water damage:
Your floorboards or furniture are warping. Wood damage occurs more quickly than you might think it would. So as soon as you notice issues with your flooring and furniture, then you see an issue that will only get more severe over time. Stop warping and damage in its tracks by getting professional help.
You can smell a musty odor. Odor is often the first sign of mold and mildew after home water damage. You’ll smell the issue before you can see it on any surfaces. That means if you notice that scent, it’s time to call in a professional to repair your home.
You notice issues with the windows or walls in your home. Your window panes start to warp if the water damage is severe enough. That means it’s imperative if you notice these signs of getting remediation help very soon.
Water damage can start to cause long-term problems within a few hours. So one of the best things you as a homeowner can do is reach out for remediation services as soon as you realize these issues are happening.
A Growing Problem
Water damage claims are consistently one of the most common ones filed by homeowners every year.
If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, you can count on us for restoration assistance. We have teams who are available 24⁄7 in the event of an emergency. Contact SERVPRO of Lebanon County at any time at 717-273-MOLD to learn more about our restoration services.
If you have water damage in your home due to a burst pipe or another cause, contact SERVPRO of Lebanon County we are available 24/7 at 717-273-MOLD.
Having water damage to your home in Lebanon County is something that no one ever wants to occur, but there are few types of water damage more destructive than having a burst pipe. Pipes can expend a large volume of water into a small area, leading to sudden damage that can be difficult to handle.
While many people put off preparing for water damage because it seems too hypothetical, it is something that occurs more often than most people realize. One house out of 50 will have damage each year, and planning ahead is the only way to truly mitigate the damages.
Shut off your electricity. Electricity and water should always be kept separate, so if it is safe for you to cut off your breaker box, it is definitely recommended that you do so. This will prevent water from causing hazards that can arise from coming into contact with electrical components.
Contact SERVPRO of Lebanon County at 717-273-MOLD. Getting in touch with us quickly is a must, as water damage is best treated quickly. Contact your chosen company as soon as you can in order to get the process started.
Take a record of the damages. Recording the damages that are done by the water is an important way to keep track of the total impact, which works well for you and for your insurance company if you will be filing a claim.
Contact your insurance company. Every insurance policy is unique, so reaching out to your insurance company as quickly as possible to determine what is covered and how to file a claim is recommended.
Open windows and doors if possible. If you have time and it is safe to do so, aiding the drying process by opening windows and doors and wiping up excess water can assist the process until your restoration team arrives with equipment.
Do you have any water damage to your home? Contact SERVPRO of Lebanon County, 717-273-MOLD We are your local water restoration experts.
There are many ways that damage can occur to a Lebanon, Palmyra or Myerstown area home, but when it comes to moisture, the damage that arises can be especially serious. Not only are their cosmetic concerns associated with water spots and discoloration, but you will also have to consider the structural implications involved with having the inner workings of your home being impacted by moisture.
It is not difficult to do your own water damage inspection to ensure your home is in good shape. Not only can you catch any issues early on when you make a point to do this, but insurance savings can be a benefit as well.
Ensure Your Home Does Not Have Hidden Water Damage
Inspect your walls and ceilings. While hidden leaks can lurk behind the cosmetic elements of your home such as drywall, there are often small indicators that they are there if you pay attention. Paint that bubbles and dark discoloration are often signs that moisture is building up and should quickly be taken care of.
Don’t forget to look down. Your floors are a common spot where pooling water can hang out, just not where you can see it. Water can often soak into the subfloor, causing a hidden issue that will result in buckling floorboards or a wavy pattern depending on the flooring material above.
Inspect your roof. Maintaining your roof is so important to ensuring you do not have issues when rain comes through the area. Simply going outside and looking up (especially with a pair of binoculars) can tell you a lot about the state of your roof and if you have any signs of wear that should be addressed quickly.
Pay close attention to the basement. Having a basement with moisture in it was once a given, but now we better understand just how detrimental letting moisture sit in the basement can be. If you notice any signs of water working its way in, such as staining of the concrete or the smell of mold, it is best to have it professionally assessed.
If you have water damage anywhere in your home, we are here to help. You can contact us at any hour to learn more about our services or to report damages. Get in touch today to speak with a water damage restoration expert. Call SERVPRO of Lebanon County at 717-273-MOLD
Weatherproofing Tips for Your Household | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County (717)-273-MOLD
Weatherproofing Tips for Your Household | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County (717)-273-MOLD
Storms are in the forecast regularly, but if they make you worry that your home is not as resilient as it could be, weatherproofing might be wise. Weather-related insurance claims are extremely common for homeowners, and they can result in a steep increase in your payments after you make a claim.
Though there is no way to guarantee a storm cannot damage your home, there are ways to strengthen your house against the elements.
Fortunately, most weatherproofing efforts are not extremely difficult, and a little bit of effort will make a big difference in the long run. Necessary repairs and optional updates can work together to create a home that is much more resilient against the weather.
Tips to Weatherproof Your Household
Keep Your Shingles in Shape Even new construction homes can experience roof leaks as there are many reasons they can happen. Roof maintenance is a necessity, as roofs are often the most vulnerable part of the home. Check on your roof regularly to be sure there are no loose shingles, obvious signs of wear or any other indicators that a repair might be necessary.
Gut Debris From Your Gutters Gutters can quickly lead to storm damage if they are allowed to remain clogged for any length of time, as the water can pool in the gutter and seep into the materials of the home. Clean your gutters at least twice each year to remove debris, and watch in between for signs of standing water or improper drainage.
Pick the Right Paint When it comes to picking exterior paint today, the features matter almost as much as the color does thanks to new paint technology. Waterproofing and UV resistance are often built right into the liquid now, so you can choose one of these high-tech paints to increase your home’s resilience to weather over time.
If you have issues with storm damage to your home, we are always here to help. Contact us 24 hours a day for a rapid response.
Our 6-Step Water Damage Restoration Method | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County (717)-273-MOLD
Our 6-Step Water Damage Restoration Method | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County (717)-273-MOLD
Though receiving water damage to your home can be disheartening, our best advice is to act quickly to begin restoration.
Untreated water damage can quickly grow more severe, which is why we are here 24 hours a day to set our proven restoration method in motion. Here’s how it works:
6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration
1. Initial Emergency Contact There is no ideal time for water damage to occur, which is why we are here to answer you 24 hours a day. When you call us, we will gather all the information we can over the phone to create a response plan and send you adequate restoration resources.
2. Inspection and Damage Assessment The most important thing is to check for any safety hazards and stop the flow of water, if applicable. We will start with this, then we will inspect the area and assess the damage done to create a custom plan for restoring your space.
3. Moisture Extraction The quicker we can begin to extract the water remaining in your home, the easier the remainder of the restoration process will be. With our industry-standard equipment, we can vacuum and pump water rapidly away from your home so things can begin drying out quickly.
4. Dehumidifying and Drying Once any standing water is removed, we can move on to the smaller-scale moisture removal. We have dehumidifiers and high-grade dryers to pull moisture out of the air and out of porous surfaces such as wood or fabrics. This discourages mold from growing and causing more damages in the water’s wake.
5. Cleaning Belongings Items that have been impacted by water damage can become contaminated, posing a risk for you and your family to interact with. We will clean and deodorize every object that has been impacted by the damage so you can feel safe about keeping your belongings.
6. Restoration and Repair We are adamant about providing full-service restoration after water damage, so we will never leave you with a half-completed job. We can take care of cosmetic and structural repairs to make sure your home looks exactly as it did before the damage occurred.
If your home has been water-damaged, you can count on us to help. Call us 24⁄7 to get the process started.
Joe Lapp
SERVPRO of Hershey/Harrisburg East
717-533-FIRE
SERVPRO of Lebanon County
717-273-MOLD
"Like it never even happened."
When the air conditioning system leaks into your ceiling causing a water damage, who do you call? SERVPRO of Hershey/Harrisburg East! We will arrive quickly and use our knowledge, experience, equipment, and Excellent Staff to make the damage to your business "Like it never even happened."
Joe Lapp
SERVPRO of Hershey/Harrisburg East
717-533-FIRE
SERVPRO of Lebanon County
717-273-MOLD
"Like it never even happened."
When have a beautiful over 55 community featuring a gorgeous clubhouse in Mechanicsburg and you have a water damage you need quick professional restoration service! For expert mitigation and full service repair service call SERVPRO of Hershey/Harrisburg East. We are a full service restoration company featuring both in house and subcontracted repair personnel. We have fully returned this facility to a "Like it never even happened," conclusion.
Our 6-Step Water Damage Restoration Method | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County
Though receiving water damage to your home can be disheartening, our best advice is to act quickly to begin restoration.
Untreated water damage can quickly grow more severe, which is why we are here 24 hours a day to set our proven restoration method in motion. Here’s how it works:
6 Steps to Water Damage Restoration
1. Initial Emergency Contact There is no ideal time for water damage to occur, which is why we are here to answer you 24 hours a day. When you call us, we will gather all the information we can over the phone to create a response plan and send you adequate restoration resources.
2. Inspection and Damage Assessment The most important thing is to check for any safety hazards and stop the flow of water, if applicable. We will start with this, then we will inspect the area and assess the damage done to create a custom plan for restoring your space.
3. Moisture Extraction The quicker we can begin to extract the water remaining in your home, the easier the remainder of the restoration process will be. With our industry-standard equipment, we can vacuum and pump water rapidly away from your home so things can begin drying out quickly.
4. Dehumidifying and Drying Once any standing water is removed, we can move on to the smaller-scale moisture removal. We have dehumidifiers and high-grade dryers to pull moisture out of the air and out of porous surfaces such as wood or fabrics. This discourages mold from growing and causing more damages in the water’s wake.
5. Cleaning Belongings Items that have been impacted by water damage can become contaminated, posing a risk for you and your family to interact with. We will clean and deodorize every object that has been impacted by the damage so you can feel safe about keeping your belongings.
6. Restoration and Repair We are adamant about providing full-service restoration after water damage, so we will never leave you with a half-completed job. We can take care of cosmetic and structural repairs to make sure your home looks exactly as it did before the damage occurred.
If your home has been water-damaged, you can count on us to help. Call us 24⁄7 to get the process started.
Here at SERVPRO of Lebanon County we never know what is going to happen when the phone rings.....
The Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey Circus train was making it's way through Central Pennsylvania. They found some water damage and because 'The Show Must Go On' they called SERVPRO of Lebanon County to make it "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO of Lebanon County is a leading Fire and Water Restoration Company. We have the equipment, experience and tools to ascertain if there has been water intrusion. we have the knowledge and experience to help pinpoint the cause of the water intrusion, and we have the equipment, knowledge and experience to mitigate the water intrusion.
We investigated, found and addressed some moisture related issues. The Circus was able to stay on schedule. And the Show Went On!
We were honored to be able to assist in this way and help others through their time of difficulty.
24/7 Emergency Service
When experiencing water damage in your home call | SERVPRO® of Lebanon County (717)-273-MOLD
