The Sneaky Culprit: Appliance Leaks and Water Damage

1/5/2024 (Permalink)

This water heater had a large leak and can cause water damage to the surrounding areas.

Water damage from appliance leaks can be a silent destroyer, wreaking havoc on your home without warning. From dishwashers to washing machines, these seemingly innocent appliances can turn into potential disasters. The issue often lies in deteriorating hoses, faulty connections, or aging components that give way unexpectedly.

Prevention is key. Regularly inspect and replace worn-out hoses, check for loose connections, and keep an eye on the overall condition of your appliances. Being proactive about maintenance not only safeguards your home but also ensures the longevity of your appliances. Don't let a small leak turn into a big problem – stay vigilant and protect your home from appliance-induced water damage.

Should you find any unwarranted water damage due to appliances, call your local SERVPRO.

What is water damage?

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

A man trying to prevent water from the ceiling causing additional damage throughout his home.

Water damage is a serious issue that can cause significant harm to your property and your health if left unresolved. Whether it's caused by a leaky pipe, a natural disaster, or a sewage backup, water damage can result in costly repairs and pose health risks. In this blog, we will discuss what water damage is, its causes, and how to prevent and deal with it.

What is Water Damage?

Water damage is the destruction or damage that occurs when water intrudes into your property. Water damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Floods
• Burst pipes
• Leaky roofs
• Plumbing problems
• Appliance malfunctions
• Sewage backups

Water damage can cause significant harm to your property and possessions, including:

• Structural damage to your property
• Mold growth
• Electrical damage
• Health risks due to mold and bacteria growth

Causes of Water Damage

The causes of water damage can vary depending on the source of the water. Some of the most common causes of water damage include:

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters such as hurricanes, floods, and heavy rain can cause significant water damage to your property.

Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are one of the most common causes of water damage in homes. They can be caused by frozen pipes, old and corroded pipes, or water pressure buildup.

Leaky Roofs

Leaky roofs can cause water to seep into your home and cause damage to your ceilings, walls, and floors. Leaky roofs are often caused by missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or clogged gutters.

Plumbing Problems

Plumbing problems such as clogged drains, overflowing toilets, and damaged water heaters can cause water damage to your property.

Appliance Malfunctions

Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators can malfunction and cause water damage if not properly maintained.

Sewage Backups

Sewage backups can occur due to clogs, damaged pipes, or heavy rain. Sewage backups can cause significant health risks and require immediate attention.

Preventing Water Damage

Preventing water damage is much easier than dealing with the aftermath. Here are some tips for preventing water damage:

• Regularly inspect your pipes and plumbing fixtures for leaks and damage.
• Keep gutters clean and free of debris to prevent water from backing up and causing damage.
• Check your roof for damage or missing shingles.
• Regularly inspect your appliances and plumbing fixtures for signs of wear and tear.
• Install a sump pump to prevent basement flooding.

Dealing with Water Damage

If you do experience water damage, it's important to act quickly to minimize the damage and prevent mold growth. Here are the most important steps to take if you experience a water damage.

• Turn off the water source to prevent further damage.
• Contact SERVPRO @ 336-379-1772 for help with cleaning up and repairing the damage.

Snow is Coming; is your Roof Secure?

12/7/2021 (Permalink)

Oooh, I smell a rooftop fight scene in a movie about "Saving Christmas!"

April Showers may bring May Flowers, but Winter Weather brings Snow, and Snow brings Roof Damage. You may think that your roof stood up just fine to those April Showers, therefore it should survive the Snow, but did you know that snow on your roof is heavier than water? Now, no one is trying to dispute the law of conservation of matter here--the snow is heavier because it can clump together on top of your house instead of flowing off like rain.

So what should you do to ensure your roof is sturdy enough to make it through the dark times until spring cleaning season? First, give it the ole look-down. Get up on a shaky ladder and get your four year-old to hang onto the bottom to keep it stable and see if you can spot any missing or broken shingles or anything that looks all sigogglin. If anything jumps out at you, duck! But if anything up there looks out of place and in need of fixing, get a roofer out there!

What happens if you don’t heed my solemn warning?

You’ll likely end up with a damaged roof and a flooded attic, and you’ll end up needing to call your local SERVPRO of Greensboro North to come handle the cleanup and restoration of your attic area. But that horrid scenario doesn’t have to happen! Consider this warning my Christmas gift to you. Go check your roof.

When it Comes to Mold, it’s Better to Prevent than Cleanup

11/14/2021 (Permalink)

Yuck! Can't make anything Gouda from that!

Mold is a fickle beast. It ruins bread, perfects cheese, pollutes the air, decomposes garbage, causes disease, and cures disease. Mold can be good and mold can be evil, but if there is mold inside your home, that is almost certainly the bad kind (unless you’re a budding fromager!).

If you have a mold infestation inside your home or business, SERVPRO of Greensboro North can 100% help clean and restore the damage on the walls, floors, ceilings, and even furniture! Call us at (336) 379-1772 and we can come fix things right up!

However, if forced to choose between cleaning up mold and preventing it, you should likely opt for the former, unless you just like talking to our franchise professionals out of loneliness and want us to keep coming back!

Standing water, poor air circulation, and bad lighting can all contribute to different types of mold. Solving that conundrum will keep the mold out and the clean air and surfaces in! That’s a no-brainer, unless your best buddies are Fungus Gnats or Mold Mites.

Now, before you accuse me of being a selfless ambassador for clean homes, sabotaging our cleaning and restoration business with helpful tips to prevent damage, I must add that SERVPRO of Greensboro North also specialises in cleaning up water damage, standing water, dusty air vents, and other yucky components of your home, so whether you decide to clean or prevent mold, everything’s turning up SERVPRO!

When is First Frost in Greensboro?

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

This is the pipe I was talking about. I hope we were on the same page!

If you live in this lovely state, you likely know the time for first frost has already passed, and the ground has already frozen at least once. (It’s usually at the end of October, though!)

That’s a real bummer for farmers, but since you’re probably not a farmer, does it matter to you?

Yes.

If you have pipes in your home that lead to a hose, you need to know when that winter freeze is coming so you can shut those pipes off.

Why?

Because, when you leave your pipes leading to your hoses turned on during the winter, that water that sits in the pipes can freeze. Water is an unusual element--when it freezes, it doesn’t become more dense. It becomes less dense, which means it expands. If the water in your pipes expands, your pipes will burst, and then you’ve got a terrible flood on your hands.

So turn off those pipes!

How to Clean Carpets after a Flood

11/8/2021 (Permalink)

Don't worry--we'll bring out OWN signs. Yeah, we're pretty professional!

If your home or business recently flooded, and you have carpets, you’re going to need to hire a professional carpet cleaner!

Might we recommend SERVPRO of Greensboro North? We’ve got the equipment and supplies to handle any carpet-cleaning job!

If it’s just a small job, we lightly spray it with a bit of cleaner and extract the dirt from the carpet.

If it’s a bigger stain, we bring in the bigger guns to get hot water on the carpet while we clean.

If the stains are even larger and/or older, we will have to use a soil emulsifier to pre-treat the carpet and use a shampoo on the stain to extract the mess. This is the most thorough cleaning method in the industry.

So if your home or business just flooded and your carpet got damaged, give us a call at (336) 379-1772 and we will pop on over and get to work!

What Flood Zone am I In?

9/29/2021 (Permalink)

A Flood Map of the Surrounding Area Around our Office.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and the world of
flood prevention is no exception. The first step to preventing a flood is
determining your flood risk. It may seem like something difficult to
quantify, but luckily FEMA has Flood Zone Maps by zip code and Flood
Zone Maps by address.

Above, you’ll see the results from looking up our address at SERVPRO of
Greensboro North. We’re fairly safe thanks to some waterways nearby that
should help any standing water drain away, but you may not be as
fortunate!
Go to https://msc.fema.gov/portal/search and plug in your address or zip
code and see what your flood risk is. Then you can look at ways to mitigate
your risk, like building smarter, getting insurance, or getting to know the
industry professionals over at SERVPRO of Greensboro North, just in case
everything goes south and you end up flooded. As a premier water cleanup
and restoration company, we specialize in doing everything that can be
done to best restore your home to the way it was before disaster struck,
and make it “Like it never even happened. ®”

4 Things To Do If Your Home Floods

3/12/2021 (Permalink)

Rain, rain, and more rain. They’re moments in the year, sometimes too many where our community goes days on end with rain. Then changing over to snow and ice in the winter if the temperatures manage to drop below freezing for a substantial amount of time. While snow is pretty to look at, what often accompanies it is a fearful weather condition. Ice can cause trees to topple over onto your roof creating a hole where water can seep into all areas of your home including the basement. 

Falling trees can rupture the pipes of your home as well which may cause hundreds if not more gallons of water to spew out into your basement, flooring, walls, and ceiling. Any amount of standing water in your home may spell disaster if not mitigated promptly. Significant water damage can begin to warp your hardwood floors, stain your carpeting, and create a mold growth situation.

Calling an experienced water cleanup crew with IICRC Certification and experience in restoration is key to beginning the process of getting your home back to normal. Our team is trained in proper drying methods and mold testing to help keep your family safe. We’ll also reconstruct your house after it’s been restored to streamline the process. 

When many customers call our office to request our services it’s critical you’ve already completed a few tasks beforehand. Listed below are a few key steps homeowners should take if they experience water damage. 

1. Shut Off The Water Source
1. Locate the cut-off valve in your home. It’s likely underneath your kitchen or bathroom sink. 
2. Do What You Can In Order To Mitigate The Damage
1. Try to soak as much water as you can on your own using towels. 
3. Call A Water Cleanup Company
1. Available 24/7 with 20+ years of experience and contractor license for repairs. 
4. Speak To Your Home Insurance Provider  
1. Save your insurance agent’s contact information on your phone, or write it down. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, 336-379-1772.

Why Did My Pipes Burst?

11/5/2020 (Permalink)

Several seasons can be experienced in a day in Greensboro, NC. From chilly mornings with lows in the forties to afternoons reaching into the seventies; the temperature range can be quite large. While that may become a hassle and knowing how to dress for the day it also may become a headache if your pipes burst. The wide temperature swings can cause water in your home and businesses’ pipes to freeze causing damage to your walls, basement, or attic. 

To prevent your pipes from freezing during the colder months of the year SERVPRO of Greensboro North has a few tips . . .

1. Leave a faucet running when temperatures get below freezing. 
2. Keep your doors, windows, and garage shut when you aren’t leaving or entering the house. 
3. Seal cracks or any other sort of openings that will allow cold air to seep in. 

Pipes bursting may also lead to other unattended consequences impacting the structural integrity of your home or business’s foundation. Mold growth may also be possible if the water coming out of the pipe is left unattended for a substantial amount of time. Be sure to give our SERVPRO of Greensboro North team a call if you experience any sort of water damage. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, 336-379-1772.

Why Does My Attic Smell Musty?

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Attic space is typically used for storage and not so much for actual living space. Homeowners making the rare trip upstairs to retrieve a few items may encounter a musty smell as they lift their heads above the ladder. Detecting a musty odor encompassing the entire room instantly switches their mind into panic mode. Attempting to figure out what is the cause of the smell.

Recognizing a musty smell in your attic could indicate that water infiltration has happened and mold growth is occurring. Attic’s can be several degrees warmer in the summer and lower in the winter compared to the rest of the home. Allowing for condensation to accumulate if there isn’t adequate ventilation. Not properly ventilating your attic can create a scenario where the least thought of area in your home easily shifts to the top of the mind.

Our team of professionals in Greensboro North is trained to assess the severity of the mold damage in order to provide the best resolution. This is a quality of life issue as remediating the attic mold is vital for both the health of yourself and everyone else who resides in the home. We’re equipped with the necessary tools to contain the mold, mitigate its effects, and remediate the area through antimicrobial treatment that eradicates mold colonies.   

If your home or business requires our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Next Steps After Flood Damage To Your Business

8/27/2020 (Permalink)

Most conversations around protecting the workplace have been centered around Coronavirus. Nevertheless being aware of and planning for all potential threats to the health and safety of your employees is important for their overall well-being. Flooding from a thunderstorm or even a hurricane can impair your business and stop operations for weeks if not months depending on your circumstances. 

If your business does experience flood damage these are the steps to take. 

1. Wait for the all-clear from your local authorities before attempting to reach your business. 
2. Once you arrive it’s vital you shut off the electricity to the building. 
3. Take pictures of everything inside (office furniture, electronics, appliances, goods, etc.) even if it appears to have not been damaged. 
4. Call your insurance provider to file a claim. 

Also, another bit of advice: Keep pricing records of expensive items such as computers and appliances to show your insurance company proof of value. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, 336-379-1772.

My Basement Is Flooded, What Next?

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Walking downstairs to wash a load of laundry and after a few steps, you encounter water engulfing the lower level of your home. A boatload of emotions begins running through your mind as you reconcile your previous task with the present circumstance. Take a deep breath and let's work through this together as a team. 

The first thing to do in the event is to shut off all power to that area. Water is a conductor for electricity and attempting to inspect the damage beforehand is highly discouraged. Once the electricity has been shut off having the water damage mitigated is the next step. That’s where the SERVPRO of Greensboro North team comes in. Our team of expert water cleanup professionals is equipped with an arsenal of tools to mitigate the damage before remediation and eventually repairs begin. 

It’s critical that you reach out to our team quickly concerning this sort of damage. Failing to do so may result in mold growth. Wet and dim conditions such as a flooded basement are the preferred breeding ground for mold. Mold may impact the integrity of your home and may cause negative health effects. Getting our team out to your property may be paramount to preventing this sort of scenario. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, 336-379-1772.

Is Water Coming Out Of My AC Unit?

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

Blasting the AC feels like a great idea on a hot summer day in Summerfield. But after lowering the thermostat the temperature of your home continues to rise. Running upstairs to the attic you find watermarks staining the walls caused by condensation and a pool of water around the HVAC system. Come to find out water has been leaking from your unit. 

An overflowed drain pan, clogged drain lines, and a dirty evaporator coil are all potential reasons your air conditioning unit is leaking. Maintaining an AC unit and assuring it’s performing correctly is a homeowner’s responsibility. Checking in on your unit regularly is an important preventative measure as the cost to repair may need to come out of your pocket and not your home insurance company. A leaky AC unit located in your attic may also deplete the integrity of your roof adding to the cost overall, reinforcing the importance of upkeep. 

Responding promptly to the water damage that has occurred includes hiring a professional water restoration crew. Waiting may increase the severity of the damage to your attic and the investment needed in order to remediate once production begins. Our team is experienced both mitigating the water damage to your attic and effectively remediating the area impacted. We’ve also earned several certifications in water cleanup through the IICRC. You can find a list of them by clicking the link below. 

https://www.IICRC.org/member/SERVPROgreensboronorth 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Rain Expected This Week . . .

6/16/2020 (Permalink)

Purchasing a home is one of the greatest accomplishments a person may obtain in life. In Greensboro and the surrounding area, it’s quite feasible compared to other more expensive cities. The pride that comes with owning a home also contains a great responsibility even with matters that may appear irrelevant to owning a home. 

Responsible homeowners learn as much as possible about taking care of their property. Learning steps and best practices to protect their property especially from water damage that ultimately could result in mold. Mold damage whether in a bathroom, basement, or attic is an unfortunate finding for any homeowner, and therefore all the more important you regularly review your property for any abnormalities. Paying close attention to the weather forecast is one of those best practices in preventing water damage. 

Greensboro and the rest of the Piedmont Triad can expect several inches of rain this week as a system stagnates over our area. Being aware of impending rainstorms can help you prepare yourself and your property from the potential water damage that may occur. Helping you plan for the water cleanup that may come afterward. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Greensboro North is renowned for our experience in this realm of work, effectively cleaning and restoring properties after they’ve experienced storm damage. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Stopping Water Damage From Becoming Severe

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Preparing your home to be placed on the market can be an emotional occasion. For many, the feeling of selling their home includes a collection of memories that can never be replaced. Safeguarding each critical memory is vital for yourself. It’s also fundamental that you protect the investment you’ve made in the property. 

Selling your home quickly is key therefore any mishaps can delay that from happening including water damage to the property. If you’re not currently living in the property the possibility of damage going unnoticed may increase. Flooding is a real concern especially if you live near a river. Mold may also spread more rapidly if your not regularly checking in on your property. Frequently reviewing your investment property is a necessary part of preventing severe water damage. 

It’s essential you prevent water damage to your property, mitigate, and soon after begin remediating the damage done if it occurs. SERVPRO of Greensboro North partners with homeowners every year in mitigating and remediating damage done from hurricanes, storms, and flooding. Our experienced team understands the investment homeowners have made and take seriously the importance of completing the job effectively. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Mold Remediation For Your Water Damage Property Part 1

5/14/2020 (Permalink)

Mold underneath the wallpaper.

Now is the right time to evaluate your home for any water damage issues that may have sprouted up and gone unnoticed due to the busyness of everyday life. As people are spending most if not all of their time indoors due to the stay-at-home order the governor issued last month it’s critical that you utilize this time to take into account the vulnerabilities of your home including mold damage. 

Mold is caused when moisture is allowed to build up on walls, ceilings, and flooring. Mold can occur anywhere in your home or place of business, however, it is more likely to occur in bathrooms, kitchens, and your basement. Bathrooms of course due to the possibility of water exiting the bathtub or toilet. Basements may also succumb to water damage and eventually mold due water infiltration from a storm. Broken and overwhelmed pipes may also burst to cause water damage to your basement possibly leading to mold in that part of your home. 

Mold remediation is one of the SERVPRO of Greensboro North specialties. We have years of expertise and experience in the field to best assess your circumstances. Providing your best solution to safeguard your property’s integrity as well as the health of your family. 

Stay tuned for more content chronicling the effects of mold damage on your property and your health. Reminding you of the importance of mitigating the effects quickly and efficiently. 

If your home or business is in need of our services whether for fire, water, or mold damage; perhaps even deep cleaning services, call the experts today – SERVPRO of Greensboro North, (336) 379-1772.

Measuring The Severity Of Your Water Loss

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded kitchen in a residence.

Encountered a water loss can certainly put a damper on your plans for the weekend or the vacation you were planning for later on in the year. Whether the loss was caused due to factors from a severe rainstorm that battered your neighborhood earlier in the week. A sewage backup that you weren’t expecting to occur or an accidental overuse of a water output source. That water output source could be a sink, toilet, or bathtub that was left on and ran over caused your bathroom or kitchen to be flooded. In such trying times it’s quite easy to become overwhelmed with the situation. 

SERVPRO of Burlington wants to serve you well and in our efforts to do will provide you an insight into several of the terms you’ll hear our crew use once we’ve arrived on the scene. 

Category 1/Cat 1 - This is relatively clean water in the sense that the source was from a sink, bathtub faucet, or showerhead where the water has no measurable contaminants. 

Category 2/Cat 2 - Water in this category does contain contaminants such as microorganisms which may cause sickness. Many cases result from an overflow of a toilet bowl. 

Category 3/Cat 3 - Water is heavily contaminated with harmful bacteria and other toxic agents. This includes sewage, standing water, and water infiltration from rivers and streams into your property. 

SERVPRO of Greensboro North is available 24/7 to respond to your water loss situations and can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

Tips For Preventing Your Pipes From Bursting

1/24/2020 (Permalink)

Grayscale Photography of Metal Pipes

Water is an integral component of everyday life including the running of your home. Even so, damage to one’s property can occur from water whether do to flooding, plumbing issues, burst pipes, and a multitude of other factors. Fortunately, your locally owned and ran SERVPRO of Greensboro North team is here to offer you a few tips and advice to avoid one of the most common causes of water damage during the winter season, burst pipes. 

With the winter season upon us it is a given that temperatures will fluctuate at, below, and above freezing for the next three months. This may cause the water in your pipes to both flows as usual and freeze at points unable to unfreeze creating pressure that ultimately may cause the pipe to rupture. A good first step in preventing this occurrence is as simple as allowing your faucets in both your kitchen and bathroom to slightly dripping at night when it’s the coldest. Allowing for a constant flow of water to prevent build-up. Secondly, it is to seal up cracks and leaks to minimize the amount of cold air getting into the pipes. Lastly, it’s best to insulate all pipes to lessen the ability of cold surrounding the pipes, increasing the likelihood of freezing.  

Following these tips may help you in preventing your pipes from bursting and rendering your property inadequate for business or to live in. 

If you’ve experienced a fire and fire damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached at (336) 379-1772.

More Guests, More Problems

12/30/2019 (Permalink)

white ceramic pedestal sink and toilet bathroom

For thousands of families across the Piedmont Triad this past Christmas season who welcome guests into their home they’re probably going to be keeping an eye out for their upcoming water bill. Some property owners may have also rented out their spaces to people during the holidays while they were visiting loved ones elsewhere. Nevertheless, it’s a great idea to do a maintenance check-up of your utilities to ensure everything is functioning as best as possible. Water damage can occur to your property from several places including the sink, shower, and toilet. 

Checking the drainage is the first step in your water damage preventive efforts. If the drainage is moving slower than usual it’s important to take steps to rectify the situation before the system continues to deteriorate. Check on your property’s toilets as well as the clogging may lead to overflowing which may spill out onto your carpet causing damage that will require professional existence. If your carpet is damaged, because of water overflowing from your toilet may cause a distinct odor that may be hard to get rid of on your own. Taking these preventive steps may save you a substantial amount of money and stress during the first weeks of the new year. 

If you’ve experienced a fire or water damage to your business or home, then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North. We can be reached 24/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772.

Causes and Signs of Water Damage

11/5/2019 (Permalink)

Peeling paint is one sign of water damage

Water damage can happen suddenly or over a period of time. If developing over a period of time, the condition will only worsen and continue to do more damage if not taken care of. It is good to know the most common causes and what to look out for. 

Causes of Water Damage

Here’s a list of the most common causes of water damage:

• Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, thunderstorms, and floods
• Pipes that are frozen, have burst or are leaking 
• Malfunctioning appliances, such as dishwashers or washing machines
• Groundwater seepage through cracks in your foundation or walls
• Roof damage, such as missing shingles or cracked flashing

Signs of Water Damage

The following list provides some of the telltale signs that you are dealing with water damage. Keep an eye out for these:

• Peeling paint
• Warping floors
• Ceilings and walls that show discoloration or sagging
• A strong musty smell
• Water pooling up in puddles in your yard, especially after a rainstorm

If your home experiences water damage then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North at 336-379-1772 We are here for you 24/7 and 365.

Tips to Help Prevent Water Damage During the Fall

10/31/2019 (Permalink)

Leaves are beautiful but when they fall from the trees they can clog your gutters

After Summer gives way to Fall and the bright colored leaves appear, water damage issues are also appearing. The shift in season temperatures from summer heat to cooler autumn weather presents certain seasonal conditions that can potentially impact your home and belongings.

Here are some tips to prevent potential water damage this Fall.

• In the fall is a great time to prepare for winter and the fact there will be snow and / or ice on your roof. Fall itself is not without many rainstorms. Have your roof inspected for loose or deteriorated shingles or other signs of leakage. Cut back any limbs or trees that could fall onto your home in high winds, damaging your roof or walls. Use caulking or spray foam insulation to seal any openings found in your homes exterior walls, such as points where conduits or pipes enter the house, garden hose bibs and around vents.
• Clean out your gutters. Those beautiful color changing leaves don’t stay on the trees. Leaves fall down and clog gutters and downspouts. When a substantial amount of rainfall occurs, gutters overflow and spill water down exterior walls, penetrating siding and seeping into wall cavities. That results in Indoor water damage and mold growth.
• Prepare the sprinkler system. Before the first freeze strikes, follow the manufacturer’s procedure to winterize your underground sprinklers. An underground rupture due to freezing in the main line or the shutoff valve connected to household water could affect the house foundation and/or cause basement flooding.

If your home experiences water damage then call us at SERVPRO of Greensboro North at 336-379-1772. We are here for you 24/7 and 365.

Some Tips to Prevent Water Damage

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

Dripping pipes mean a problem needs to be fixed before it leads to a larger issue

Water damage is one of the most common issues homeowners must face. Therefore it is good to know some basic steps to prevent it. To make sure water doesn’t wreak havoc on your property, you have to be on top of possible water leakage at all times. It’s easier than you think to monitor and protect your home from water damage. Here’s a few things you should remember to do often, to keep your home dry.

Find the Drip

Drips are often hard to detect, especially since they can occur in places that are hard to see or hard to reach. Thing is, they are strong indicators of leakage or busted pipes, so it is important to deal with drips as early as possible. First observe and locate where the drip is coming from. You can turn the water valve on and off to help you map out the area. When you finally locate the source of the leak, cover the crack immediately and call in an expert like a plumber in order to ensure no further leaks.

Sweating Pipes

Sweating pipes are not exactly leaking pipes. If you notice your pipe lines have some sort of condensation present, it is because the temperature inside is much colder than the air surrounding it. It does not have a direct effect on the pipe itself, but it can lead to drips, which may eventually lead to damages. Make sure the pipes are properly insulated to avoid such from happening.

Your Roofing

As your first line of defense against the elements, your roof should be kept always in good condition. Make sure there are no cracks or crevices, especially in valleys and roof pockets, as water tends to collect there. Keep the gutters free of obstruction, too, so that there’s efficient water draining.

Appliances

Keeping an eye on appliances such as your dishwasher, water heater, washing machine, etc. can often help you detect early on if there’s a problem before it becomes a serious issue. Looking for wet spots, or condensation, too much moisture on or around the appliance, or if it’s not working or draining properly are signs of what may become a larger problem. Be sure to always maintain your appliances and monitor how well they’re working often.

If you experience any water damage to your home or office then call us at SERVPRO Greensboro North at 336-379-1772. We are here for you 24/7 and 365.

What to do to Prevent Mold on Your Carpets After A Water Damage Occurs

5/1/2019 (Permalink)

ACT FAST when water damage occurs to your carpeting

No matter how big or small your water damage is in your home or business, your affected flooring and walls are at immediate risk of mold. It does not take much water at all for mold to become harmful and for it to spread. All mold needs is a dark space, a tiny bit of moisture and it’ll grow. Within a very short period. From there it will continue to spread both visibly and also can become airborne, often leading to health problems.

To try and prevent mold on your carpet you must do the following:

Act Fast

Act fast by drying up any floods or water leaks as quickly as possible. The sooner you clean up the water, the less chance you’ll have of mold growing. Use any fans you might have to circulate the air and to try and speed along the drying process. Run fans until carpets are dry completely. To ensure they are dry, keep them on for at least 24 hours.

Invest in a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are machines that will remove any excess moisture in the room. They will make the air feel cooler which helps to limit the growth of mold. Dehumidifiers help to dry out the air and ground helping to speed up the dry time for your carpeted floors.

Give us a Call

At SERVPRO of Greensboro North, we specialize in water damage cleanup. We not only help get rid of the water fast but also can detect and stop mold growth in its tracks. Our state of the art equipment is needed to remove the excess water and to ensure mold does not become an issue. Where salvageable, we help to get your carpets dry, fresh and clean again. We are available to be reached 27/7 and 365 at 336-379-1772

Water Damage Sign to Look for in Your Home

12/30/2018 (Permalink)

Stains on your floors can be an indication of water damage.

When it's contained properly, water doesn't pose too big of a threat to your home. However when water floods and soaks into your walls, floors, or ceiling, it can quickly develop into a serious health and safety hazard. This is because water that is not dried up or that sits causes a cozy environment for mold and mildew to begin growing. Mold is a fast-spreading, hard-to-remove fungus that can cause health problems and also weaken your property's structural integrity. Here are several methods for detecting water damage within your house. You’re going to want to walk around and look carefully at both the interior and exterior of your home. 

1. First walk around and Inspect Outside

Carefully look over the entire exterior of your house. Look for pools of water. These can indicate poor drainage in the yard, gutter spouts that maybe aren’t moving water far enough from the house or leaky rain gutters. Any of those issues can threaten your homes foundation since water that’s standing may get into your home. 

Make sure to check your roof. The most common signs of water damage to your roof often include pools of water; cracked, curled up or missing shingles. 

2. Inside Check your Floors

No matter what kind of flooring you have throughout your home, if water damage is present the signs will show. For tile and wood floors, look for cracked, buckling or warping. On carpeted floors, be wary of damp spots, stains, gradual rises and soft spots. 

3. Smell your way around 

If you see any active mold growth it means that moisture is contacting microscopic mold spores, often in the nooks and crannies of your home. However since mold often hides, you can’t rely only on your site. Use your nose too! If there’s a smell of mold and dampness that too is a sign then that water damage is present. One can often get used to the smell of mold or dampness so make certain to walk in from outside first during your walk around so that the smell will be more obvious. Water when it’s stagnate, causes mold and bacteria can grow, which is what produces the musty, unpleasant smell. If you smell it it is best to remove yourself from the home until the level, type  and location of the mold are determined. 

4. Look for Stains Everywhere

Look for stains on your floors, walls and ceiling. If you find water stains on your floors or around your bathtub, toilet or sink than those are signs of water damage. If you find stains on your ceilings and walls than those too are some of the most obvious signs of water damage. Some of these stains can be concealing mold behind them beneath the flooring or in your walls since water damage that’s left unattended can often lead to mold. Unusual stains may indicate that there is a leaky pipe inside the wall. Perhaps there’s a leaky drain. Cracks in your drywall often mean there’s trouble. If any areas of your walls appear swollen and are soft to touch that too may signify trouble. If pain is peeing that is another sign of water loose within walls. When drywall gets saturated, paint will usually lose adhesion.

5. Look for Rust and Mold

Frequent Inspections of your water heater can be very beneficial. Checking for rust that’s developing on the tank or if you see rust already present on the tank, than that typically indicates a slow leak. Rust around pipe connections can also be caused by water seepage.

If you suspect Water Damage in your home or if you have experienced Water Damage in your home, than call us at SERVPRO at 336-379-1772. We are here for you 24/7 and 365 days a year. 

Characteristics of Water Damage

12/3/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage can affect your home or business

Characteristics of Water Damage Regardless of the cause of water damage to your home or office, our trained technicians are able to recognize the cause and act in order to resolve it. At SERVPRO Greensboro North, we address the cause of the problem and work closely with insurance companies to help ensure a seamless transition back to normalcy. If your home or business has been affected by water damage, it is essential that you call in professionals like us immediately. Moving water caused by a flood or a burst pipe can spread quickly throughout your home or office, permanently staining things like carpets, upholstery, books and movies. Items such as wooden furniture can swell, with individual components even disintegrating, and unprotected metal surfaces can also become permanently tarnished. For these reason among many others, water should be removed as soon as possible. The longer water sits, the more damage can occur to your home, office and all its contents. In addition, the development of bacteria and the growth of mold can begin to occur. Along with bacteria and mold come unpleasant odors and the risk of increased allergens. SERVPRO Greensboro North can also assist you with mold should it begin to grow or already be growing. However prevention is key!

Top Causes Of Water Damage In Your Home

11/5/2018 (Permalink)

Maintain your appliances and their water lines in order to help prevent water damage

Residential Water Damage is not uncommon. Knowing what the main causes are is helpful towards preventing any water damage to your home. Here are some top causes of water damage that you should be aware of.

1. Your Toilet – Toilets can run and drip. Once it springs a bad leak it can then damage your floors and your walls. If your toilet is running constantly or dripping, be certain to figure out why before it becomes an even bigger problem.

2. Your Washing Machine- Constant pressure to the supply lines causes your washing machine to fill quickly. Supply lines can wear out and rupture, be it if they are rubber or PVC lines. If this happens, your laundry room will flood with water. It is best to check your lines and replace old ones with braided stainless steel. By replacing your lines before they wear out or rupture can help avoid flooding.

3. Your Air Conditioner- It is easy for your air conditioners draining system to give out on you which can result in wet ceilings and soggy insulation. Air Conditioners pull humidity from the air and condense that moisture into the unit’s overflow pan. The water then travels from the pan outside through the condensation line. If the pan gets damaged or the line gets clogged, the drainage system will quit working.

4. Sump Pump – If your sump pump stops working, you will need to deal with water removal, must dry everything and will need to fend off and fight mold and mildew. Heavy rains or appliance failure can cause your sump pump to stop working. Be sure to have your sump pump checked and emptied out regularly in an attempt to avoid this from happening.

5. Garbage Disposal- As the garbage disposal gets older, it will spring leaks and flood cabinets with dirty water. Often food and dirt particles are also mixed in with this dirty water.

6. Water Heater- Older units can develop leaks in the bottom of the tank and often then flood entire basements or first floors. On newer units you may also experience a faulty water outlet or a faulty drain valve. Make certain to check your water heaters often.

7. Your Dish Washer- There are usually two water lines connected to your dishwasher. One that leads to the kitchen sink supply faucet and one that leads to the sink drain or to your garbage disposal. A busted hose or leak in the line are two of the most common ways your dishwasher can create water damage. Be sure to check your lines throughout the year.

Failure to maintain your appliances can cause them to work less efficiently and even break down, resulting in water leaks and related damage. If you experience any water damage, it’s always best to call in the professionals like us at SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville. We can ensure that your water damage is cleaned up properly so that further issues such as mold do not become an issue because of water damage in your home. 336-379-1772

What You Can Do To Help Prevent Water Damage This Season

10/30/2018 (Permalink)

Bathtubs can easily overflow, especially if left unattended with the water running.

We should always be conscious of the water we use and how it can actually end up causing damage. If we’re not careful we can be responsible for flooding or additional water damage in our homes. It is good to know things you can do to try and prevent water damage and what to look out for.

Lookout for Water Pipes

It’s getting close to that time of year where pipes can easily freeze. Make sure you don’t have any cracks in your piping or any slow drips. Cracks in your pipes often can result in not only leaks but when pipes freeze can increase the chance of your pipes bursting.

Long Showers

Many of us love long hot showers on these cold brisk weather days. Especially in the mornings to help warm us up. However, excess use of water can lead to flooding and pooling, which if you’re not careful, can cause water damage. The stagnant water and excessive moisture in your shower is something you should closely monitor so that it does not lead to mold growth and damage. Making certain also that your shower curtain is closed completely and that no water is spraying out is also important as if you spray too much water out of the shower and onto your floor it will seep through below your flooring. If you have shower doors instead of a curtain, make certain that they too close properly and that they are not leaking water out during your shower. If a hot bath is your preference, then watch how high you fill it up! You do not want to walk away and allow for your tub to overflow. You also do not want to fill it so high that when you get into the tub and sink down you cause water to overflow onto the floor.

Your Drains

It is good to make sure that your drains are working properly. Be it in your bathtub, shower, kitchen or bathroom sink, if a drain is not draining properly it can lead to water pooling and sometimes flowing over out of the sink, tub, etc. You should clean out your drains often as hair, debris, food pieces etc can easily clog them.

Toilets

Be careful to not clog your toilets. While sometimes it is unavoidable, always make sure to have a plunger available in case it should be needed. If you know something has clogged your toilet, be it paper or something a child placed it in and flushed, than do not keep flushing it. Until you are sure the clog has been dealt with properly, flushing can cause your toilet to overflow. Should that happen, do your best to clean up any water immediately.

Plants and Christmas Trees

It’s almost Christmas! Lots of us just love freshly cut Christmas Trees. However, those trees of course require us to water them or to keep them in water. Make sure you’re keeping your house plants, any flowers watered and / or fed with what they need in order to keep them growing. Make sure to keep that Christmas Tree from drying out as it can otherwise go from a potential water problem, to a fire hazard. However, be sure to monitor how much water isn’t being absorbed by the soil, plants, or the Christmas Tree. Excess water can and often will seep through crevices and cause damage to your home’s foundation, create sinkholes and more.

Should you encounter any sort of water damage at your home than SERVPRO Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville, is here for you! We are open 24/7 and can be reached at 336-379-1772. To receive assistance with water, fire or storm damage, give us a call.

Fall Tips To Help Protect Your Home Against Water Damage

10/10/2018 (Permalink)

Protect your home this fall

Many of us are looking forward to fall. To the cooler temperatures, the fire pits, hot cider, apple picking, pumpkin everything, sweaters and boots. To the beautiful colored leaves that eventually crisp beneath our feet. What about those leaves though can pose a hazard our homes? What can we do to protect our homes and to ensure that our homes are ready for the leaves, the cooler temperatures and the approach of winter? Here are some maintenance tips for getting your home into top shape this fall in order to avoid water damage.

Clean out your gutters:

Believe it or not while it’s assumed leaves only build up in your gutters during the fall, during the summer you can often have build up as well. . According to Energy.gov, clogged gutters can form ice dams in the colder months which will prevent your drain systems from working properly. Leaks can then happen within the home causing all sorts of issues.

If water builds up and pools in your gutters, you can also experience damage to your roof and siding. By simply cleaning out your gutters at the start, middle and at the end of fall, you can often prevent gutters from clogging.

Test your downspouts:

Once you have cleared out your gutters, be sure to then test your downspouts. That way you can make certain that everything is draining properly. Be sure to test your downspouts each and every time you finish cleaning out your gutters. Be certain that your downspout is not draining directly into or on top of any flower beds. If the garden floods, it can leak water into your house. It is an important finishing step to make sure that you are doing your best to prevent any issues.

Landscaping:

While in can be tedious, you’ll want to trim your trees, cut your flowers and bushes so that they are pointing away from your house. Plants can often gather water inside petals, or on top of petals which can then sneak down into any cracks you might have in your foundation. Like plants, water can build up on some tree leaves, prior to any leaves falling. Water can than leak down and buildup further into your gutters or pool onto your roof.

Make any necessary repairs:

It is good to take a walk and enjoy the cool brisk air. It is good not only for the exercise, but for your home. Walk your property! Take a walk around often during the season and look for signs of damage to your roof, windows, siding and foundation. It is best that if anything does need repair that you schedule for it to be taken care of before the temperatures drop further and winter begins.

Check your pipes:

Pipes are often overlooked. Get them checked and keep them monitored for any signs of cracking or aging. Aging pipes often become leaking pipes. By catching a leak early, you’ll have a lower chance of water damage in the future.

Seal any gaps you see:

With the holidays approaching, many of us will be hosting guests in our homes. However not all guests are invited. Mice for instance only need a tiny gap, as small even as the tip of a pencil, in order to be able to sneak into your home. They too are preparing for the winter and their main goal is to stay warm. Once inside they will raid your pantry, and also make your home their home inviting their own family and friends inside.

By filling in small holes and by covering any large gaps properly and securely, you can often prevent mice from coming into your home.

Test your sump pump:

Whether you have a basement or not, it is important to get your sump pump checked and tested each year. If you cannot recall when it was last tested than definitely schedule an appointment for it to be looked at right away. You can then mark your future calendars to have it checked again that same time each year.  

By doing these simple maintenance tips you can possibly prevent water damage to your home. If an emergency does arise, SERVPRO of Greensboro North, Burlington and Kernersville is here to help. Our team is highly trained in the property damage restoration of both residential and commercial properties after a fire, smoke or water damage event.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 336-379-1772

Water Emergencies In Greensboro

5/7/2018 (Permalink)

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Greensboro North arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 386-379-1772

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Greensboro North

SERVPRO of Greensboro North specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property

"April Showers Bring May Flowers." Are you SERVPRO ready?

4/15/2015 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greensboro North (336) 379-1772

“April showers bring the May flowers.”
Are you SERVPRO ready?

While spring is a beautiful time of year, April showers can create flood conditions faster than you may realize. Knowing the difference between a flood warning and flood watch is important. A “Flash Flood Watch,” means there is possible flooding in the Greensboro area. A “Flash Flood Warning,” means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in the Greensboro area.

Preparing Your Family for a Flood

Your family will be better prepared to withstand a flood if you have the following items available, packed and ready to go in case you need to evacuate your home.

3 day supply of water, 1 gallon per person per day – 3 day supply of non-perishable food items – Flashlights, extra batteries and multi-purpose tools – A first aid kit and a extra medications – Sanitation and person hygiene items – Extra pet supplies, food, ID and vet records – Extra clothing, blankets, sturdy shoes and rain gear – Sunscreen and bug repellant - Emergency contact information and copies of important person documents – A camera to take photos of flood damage – Extra charges for electronic devices.

Greensboro Red Cross Emergency Number - (336) 333-2111

Greensboro Red Cross Location - 1501 Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27415

Storm Damage Cleanup and Restoration – What to do after a Flood or Water Damage

Floods and water damage often occur with little warning and can be devastating to homes, business and entire communities. Taking immediate action after a disaster is vital. Communicating with your insurance company and calling upon the emergency response restoration experts at SERVPRO will help you move forward faster. Taking pictures, collecting items, extracting water and starting the ‘dry-out’ process can be helpful, but safety must come first. If your home or business is not sturdy, do not go in. Leave that to us!

Regardless of the storm, flood or water damage, SERVPRO of Greensboro North is here to help! Our team of highly trained water damage specialists is faster in any disaster. And with a national network of over 1,650 SERVPRO Franchises across the country, we have the resources to handle any storm or disaster.

Did you know?

50% of businesses may never reopen after suffering a disaster. Your friends at SERVPRO are the only restoration team to offer everything you need to best prepare your business for disaster at the palm of your hand. We do this with our FREE the Emergency Ready Profile app, also known as an ERP. The ERP app stores your business’s emergency contacts and your business’s venders (HVAC service, plumbers, emergency restoration company, etc.).

Click here to learn more - https://ready.SERVPRO.com/home/mobileapp

What to Do After a Flood or Water Damage

What NOT to Do After a Flood or Water Damage