Recent Posts
Post-Flood Safety: Essential Steps to Check Your Home's Structural Integrity
10/16/2024 (Permalink)
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do for post-flood safety, with a focus on assessing your home’s structural integrity.
Floods can cause widespread damage to homes, impacting everything from the foundation to the walls and roof. Once floodwaters recede, homeowners are faced with the daunting task of assessing the damage and ensuring their homes are safe for habitation. It's crucial to prioritize structural safety, as unseen damage can compromise your home's stability. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do for post-flood safety, with a focus on assessing your home’s structural integrity.
The Impact of Floods on Home Structures
Floods are among the most common and costly natural disasters, causing billions of dollars in damage each year. In fact, according to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), just one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage to a home (FEMA). This staggering statistic highlights the importance of thoroughly inspecting your home after any flooding event.
1. Conduct a Visual Inspection
The first step in assessing post-flood structural integrity is a thorough visual inspection. This should include:
- Foundation: Look for cracks, shifts, or any signs of movement in the foundation. Floodwaters can erode soil beneath the foundation, leading to settling or even partial collapse.
- Exterior Walls: Check for cracks or bulges in the walls. Flood pressure and debris can cause structural shifts that may not be immediately apparent.
- Roof: Inspect your roof for any sagging or missing shingles. Water infiltration can weaken the roof structure, leading to potential collapse over time.
- Windows and Doors: Make sure windows and doors open and close properly. Warping from water damage can cause misalignment, which is a sign of structural stress.
If you notice any of these issues, it's crucial to contact a professional structural engineer or a licensed contractor for a more detailed inspection.
2. Assess the Foundation for Settling and Erosion
Floodwaters can destabilize the ground under your home, leading to soil erosion and foundation settling. One way to check for settling is to inspect the alignment of your walls, floors, and ceilings. Uneven floors, gaps between the walls and the ceiling, or doors that no longer close properly could indicate foundation issues.
To mitigate the risk of further damage, avoid entering the home if you notice any major structural issues such as large cracks in the foundation or severe leaning of walls. Instead, have a professional inspect it before you re-enter.
3. Inspect the Flooring
Flooring is often the most visibly affected by floodwaters. Check for any signs of warping, buckling, or detachment of tiles, hardwood, or carpets. These issues can indicate water has seeped into the subfloor, compromising its strength.
In the case of significant water damage, it's often necessary to remove and replace flooring materials, particularly if the subfloor is compromised. This is especially true for wood, which can rot or weaken over time after water exposure.
4. Check the Walls for Moisture Damage
Walls, particularly those made of drywall, can absorb significant amounts of water during a flood. This not only weakens the material but also poses a risk to the overall structural integrity of the home. Look for:
- Sagging or Bulging Walls: These are key indicators of internal damage.
- Cracks: Even small cracks can signify more profound structural issues.
If you observe any of these signs, consult a professional to determine whether portions of the walls need to be replaced.
5. Engage a Professional for a Detailed Structural Assessment
While a visual inspection can help you identify obvious signs of damage, it's essential to engage a professional for a comprehensive structural assessment. Professionals can use specialized tools to detect internal damage that may not be visible, such as moisture meters or infrared cameras to identify trapped water. A structural engineer can also evaluate whether your home is safe for habitation or if repairs are necessary to prevent further damage.
Final Thoughts
Checking your home’s structural integrity after a flood is crucial to ensuring the safety and stability of your property. From inspecting the foundation to evaluating the walls and roof, thorough assessments are vital. Always consult with professionals if you're unsure about the extent of the damage or if your inspection reveals concerning signs.
Remember, taking these steps not only ensures your home is safe but also helps protect your investment in the long run. By following these post-flood safety steps, you can minimize the risks associated with flood damage and restore your home’s structural integrity. If you need flood damage restoration services, contact our emergency team at SERVPRO®.
Safety Measures During Lightning Storms
9/11/2024 (Permalink)
Remember, safety first – when thunder roars, go indoors!
As SERVPRO® employees, we understand the importance of staying safe during severe weather events, especially lightning storms. Lightning is a powerful natural phenomenon that can cause significant damage and pose serious risks if proper precautions are not taken. Here are some essential safety measures to follow during a lightning storm to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.
Stay informed
First and foremost, always stay informed about weather conditions. Pay attention to weather forecasts and alerts from reliable sources. When a lightning storm is predicted, it's crucial to take action early. If you hear thunder, it means lightning is close enough to pose a threat, so seek shelter immediately. A good rule of thumb is the "30-30 rule": if you hear thunder within 30 seconds of seeing lightning, go indoors, and stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.
Indoor protection
When indoors, avoid using electrical appliances and plumbing fixtures, as lightning can travel through electrical wiring and plumbing. Unplug devices and avoid using corded phones. It's also wise to stay away from windows and doors, as well as any metal objects that could conduct electricity. If possible, stay in an interior room on the lowest floor of your home.
For those caught outside during a lightning storm, finding a safe shelter is paramount. Never seek refuge under a tree, as trees can attract lightning. Instead, find a substantial building or a metal-topped vehicle with the windows rolled up. If no shelter is available, crouch low to the ground, with as little contact with the ground as possible, and avoid open fields, hilltops, and bodies of water.
Protect your home
Another crucial aspect of lightning safety is protecting your home. Surge protectors can help shield your appliances from power surges caused by lightning strikes. Additionally, consider installing a lightning rod system to provide a direct path for lightning to travel to the ground, reducing the risk of fire and structural damage. Keep trees and branches trimmed to prevent them from falling on power lines or your home during a storm.
Emergency preparedness
It's also important to have an emergency kit ready in case of power outages or other storm-related issues. Your kit should include essentials such as flashlights, batteries, a battery-powered radio, non-perishable food, water, and a first aid kit. Being prepared ensures you can weather the storm safely and comfortably.
Lightning storms require serious attention and preparedness. By staying informed, seeking proper shelter, protecting your home, and having an emergency kit ready, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with lightning. At SERVPRO, we're dedicated to helping our community stay safe and prepared for all types of severe weather. Remember, safety first – when thunder roars, go indoors!
Tips for salvaging and restoring fire-damaged furniture
8/14/2024 (Permalink)
While many restoration steps can be tackled on your own, there are times when professional help is invaluable.
Experiencing a fire in your home or business is devastating, and dealing with the aftermath can be overwhelming. Among the many challenges you might face, salvaging and restoring fire-damaged furniture is a significant concern. At SERVPRO®, we understand the emotional and financial value your furniture holds. Here are some expert tips to help you restore your cherished pieces and bring them back to life.
Assess the Damage
The first step in the restoration process is to carefully assess the extent of the damage. Determine whether the furniture is structurally sound and worth salvaging. Look for signs of severe charring, warping, or cracking. If the damage is extensive, it might be more practical to replace the piece. For those items that are salvageable, a thorough cleaning and restoration can often restore their former glory.
Start with Safety
Before you begin any restoration work, ensure the area is safe. Wear protective gloves, a mask, and eyewear to protect yourself from soot and debris. Make sure the space is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling harmful particles.
Cleaning and Soot Removal
One of the biggest challenges in restoring fire-damaged furniture is removing soot. Start by using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove loose soot from the surface. Be gentle to avoid embedding the soot deeper into the fabric or wood grain. For wood furniture, use a dry chemical sponge to wipe away remaining soot. Avoid using water at this stage, as it can cause further damage.
Deodorizing
Fire leaves behind a lingering smoke odor that can be tough to eliminate. Activated charcoal, baking soda, and commercial deodorizing sprays can help absorb and neutralize these odors. For upholstered furniture, sprinkle baking soda generously over the fabric, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum thoroughly. Repeat as necessary until the odor is reduced.
Deep Cleaning
For wooden furniture, mix a solution of white vinegar and water (one part vinegar to one part water) to clean the surface. This helps remove soot and smoke residue without damaging the wood. For upholstered pieces, consider hiring a professional cleaner who specializes in fire damage. They have the expertise and equipment to effectively clean and restore fabrics without causing further harm.
Repair and Restoration
Once the furniture is clean, assess any structural damage. For wooden pieces, you might need to sand and refinish the surface. Fill in any cracks or gouges with wood filler and sand smooth before applying a fresh coat of stain or paint. For upholstery, check for burnt or damaged fabric. In some cases, reupholstering might be necessary to restore the piece to its original condition.
Professional Help
While many restoration steps can be tackled on your own, there are times when professional help is invaluable. At SERVPRO, we offer comprehensive fire damage restoration services, including furniture restoration. Our team of experts uses advanced equipment and techniques to ensure your furniture is restored to the highest standards.
Restoring fire-damaged furniture requires patience and attention to detail, but with the right approach, you can save your treasured pieces and restore a sense of normalcy to your space. For professional assistance, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO. We're here to help you through every step of the restoration process.
Understanding the Spread of Mold: How It Happens and What You Can Do
7/10/2024 (Permalink)
We explore the various ways mold can spread within your home and provide tips for preventing its proliferation.
Mold is a common household problem that can spread quickly if left unchecked. Understanding how mold spreads is crucial for effective prevention and remediation. In this blog post, we'll explore the various ways mold can spread within your home and provide tips for preventing its proliferation.
Through Airborne Spores
Mold spreads primarily through airborne spores. These microscopic particles are released into the air when mold colonies are disturbed, such as during cleaning or renovation activities. Once airborne, mold spores can travel through the air currents and settle on surfaces throughout your home, where they can germinate and proliferate under the right conditions.
Through Contact with Contaminated Surfaces
Mold can also spread through direct contact with contaminated surfaces. When mold spores land on surfaces such as walls, ceilings, furniture, or household items, they can attach and begin to grow if moisture and organic material are present. Touching or disturbing mold-contaminated surfaces can dislodge spores and spread them to other areas of your home.
Through HVAC Systems
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems can contribute to the spread of mold throughout your home. Mold spores can enter HVAC systems through intake vents or leaks in ductwork, where they can accumulate and spread through the air ducts to other rooms. Poorly maintained HVAC systems with inadequate filtration can exacerbate mold spread.
Through Water Intrusion
Water intrusion is a common cause of mold growth and spread within homes. Leaks from plumbing fixtures, roof leaks, floods, or high humidity levels can introduce moisture into your home, creating ideal conditions for mold growth. Mold can spread rapidly in damp environments, moving from the initial source of moisture to adjacent areas.
Through Personal Belongings
Mold can also spread through personal belongings such as clothing, furniture, and household items. Mold spores can attach to these items and be transported from one location to another, spreading mold throughout your home. Contaminated belongings should be properly cleaned and disinfected to prevent further spread of mold.
Tips for Preventing Mold Spread
Maintain Proper Indoor Humidity:
Keep indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50% to inhibit mold growth and spread. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas and ensure adequate ventilation throughout your home.
Address Water Intrusion Promptly:
Promptly repair any water leaks, plumbing issues, or water damage to prevent mold growth and spread. Thoroughly dry affected areas within 24-48 hours to prevent mold from taking hold.
Clean and Disinfect Contaminated Surfaces:
Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces prone to mold growth, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Use mold-inhibiting cleaners and proper ventilation to prevent mold from spreading.
Maintain HVAC Systems:
Regularly inspect and maintain your HVAC system to prevent mold buildup in air ducts and components. Change air filters regularly and ensure proper ventilation to minimize mold spread through HVAC systems.
Mold can spread quickly and easily within your home, posing a threat to both your property and your health. By understanding the various ways mold spreads and implementing preventive measures such as maintaining proper humidity levels, addressing water intrusion promptly, cleaning and disinfecting contaminated surfaces, and maintaining HVAC systems, you can effectively prevent mold spread and maintain a healthy indoor environment. If you suspect mold growth or need assistance with mold remediation, contact a professional restoration company like SERVPRO® for expert assessment and remediation services.
Protecting Your Electronics: How to Prevent and Recover from Water Damage
6/11/2024 (Permalink)
Water damage can wreak havoc on electronic devices, causing malfunctions, corrosion, and even complete failure. In this blog post, we'll explore the common causes of water damage to electronics, practical tips for prevention, and steps for recovering water-damaged devices to help you protect your valuable electronics and minimize potential losses.
Causes of Water Damage to Electronics
Water damage to electronics can occur due to various reasons, including:
Accidental spills: Accidentally spilling liquids such as water, coffee, or soda onto electronic devices.
Flooding: Exposure to water from floods, leaks, burst pipes, or natural disasters.
Humidity: Prolonged exposure to high humidity levels can cause condensation and moisture buildup inside devices.
Submersion: Immersion of electronic devices in water, such as dropping a smartphone in a pool or bathtub.
Prevention Tips
To prevent water damage to your electronics, consider the following tips:
Keep liquids away: Avoid using electronic devices near liquids and beverages, and be cautious when handling drinks around electronics.
Use protective cases: Invest in waterproof or water-resistant cases for smartphones, tablets, and other portable devices to provide an extra layer of protection.
Store devices properly: Store electronic devices in dry, climate-controlled areas away from areas prone to water leaks or flooding, such as basements or bathrooms.
Use moisture-absorbing products: Place moisture-absorbing products such as silica gel packs or desiccants near electronic devices to help absorb excess moisture and prevent condensation.
Perform regular maintenance: Routinely inspect electronic devices for signs of water damage, and promptly address any issues to prevent further damage or corrosion.
Recovering Water-Damaged Electronics
If your electronic devices have been exposed to water, follow these steps for recovery:
1. Power off the device
Immediately power off the device and remove any batteries or power sources to prevent electrical shorts and further damage.
2. Dry the device
Gently blot or wipe away any visible moisture on the exterior of the device using a soft, absorbent cloth. Avoid using heat sources such as hair dryers, as excessive heat can damage sensitive components.
3. Disassemble if possible
If the device is safe to disassemble, carefully remove any covers, panels, or removable parts to allow better airflow for drying.
4. Air dry or use a drying agent
Place the device in a dry, well-ventilated area or use a moisture-absorbing product such as rice or silica gel packs to help absorb the remaining moisture.
5. Seek professional assistance
If the device does not power on or exhibits signs of malfunction after drying, seek professional assistance from a qualified technician or electronics repair specialist for further evaluation and repairs.
Water damage to electronics can be expensive and inconvenient, but taking proactive measures to prevent water exposure and knowing how to properly recover water-damaged devices can help minimize potential losses. By following the tips outlined in this blog post and taking swift action in the event of exposure to water, you can protect your valuable electronics and ensure their functionality for years to come!
Tornado Preparedness: Steps to Take Before, During, and After the Storm
5/15/2024 (Permalink)
Remember, SERVPRO® is here to help with any storm damage restoration and cleanup needs.
Living in an area prone to tornadoes requires preparedness and quick action to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Tornadoes can strike suddenly and with immense force, causing widespread damage and devastation. Here are some essential steps to take before, during, and after a tornado to stay safe and minimize damage to your property:
Before the Tornado
1. Create a Tornado Emergency Plan
Develop a family emergency plan that outlines where to seek shelter in your home or community shelter, as well as how to stay informed about tornado warnings and evacuation orders.
2. Identify a Safe Shelter
Designate a safe room or storm shelter in your home where you can take refuge during a tornado. Choose an interior room on the lowest level of your home, away from windows and doors.
3. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Assemble an emergency kit containing essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and important documents. Store the kit in your designated safe room or shelter.
4. Secure Outdoor Items
Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, lawn decorations, and other loose items that could become projectiles during high winds. Trim trees and branches near your home to reduce the risk of them falling during a tornado.
During the Tornado
1. Seek Shelter Immediately
If a tornado warning is issued for your area or if you see or hear a tornado approaching, seek shelter immediately in your designated safe room or storm shelter.
2. Stay Informed
Monitor weather updates and warnings through a battery-powered weather radio or a smartphone app to stay informed about the tornado's location and trajectory.
3. Take Cover
If you are caught outdoors or in a vehicle during a tornado, seek shelter in a sturdy building if possible. If no shelter is available, lie flat in a low-lying area and cover your head and neck with your hands.
After the Tornado
1. Wait for the All-Clear
Remain in your safe shelter until the tornado has passed and local authorities have issued an all-clear signal. Be cautious when emerging from shelter, as additional tornadoes or severe weather may occur.
2. Assess Damage
Check your home for damage, taking care to watch out for hazards such as downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. Use caution when entering damaged buildings and wear protective clothing if necessary.
3. Contact Authorities and Insurance Provider
Report any injuries or significant damage to emergency services and your insurance provider as soon as it is safe to do so. Document the damage with photographs or videos for insurance claims purposes.
By taking these proper actions before, during, and after a tornado, you can help ensure the safety of yourself and your family and minimize damage to your property. Remember, SERVPRO® is here to help with any storm damage restoration and cleanup needs. Stay safe and be prepared for severe weather events.
Restoring Air Ducts and HVAC Systems After a Fire
4/17/2024 (Permalink)
After a fire incident in your home, the cleanup process can be overwhelming. It's not just about the visible damage but also the hidden areas affected, like your air ducts and HVAC system. Smoke and soot can infiltrate these systems, spreading contaminants and debris throughout your home. In this blog post, we'll delve into the importance of restoring residential air ducts and HVAC systems after a fire and how SERVPRO of Lake Arlington can help you through this process.
Preventing Further Contamination
Smoke and soot particles can settle within your air ducts and HVAC system, posing a risk of further contamination if left unaddressed. Professional restoration of these systems is crucial to prevent the spread of contaminants and ensure the safety of your indoor environment.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Restoring your air ducts and HVAC system is essential for improving indoor air quality and creating a healthy living environment for you and your family. Removing smoke and soot residues from these systems helps eliminate odors and pollutants, allowing you to breathe easier and reduce the risk of any issues.
Identifying and Addressing Damage
Our trained technicians conduct a thorough inspection of your air ducts and HVAC system to assess the extent of the damage. From there, we develop a customized restoration plan tailored to your specific needs, addressing any issues such as smoke damage, soot buildup, or structural damage to the system.
Professional Cleaning and Restoration
Our experts at SERVPRO® utilizes advanced equipment and techniques to clean and restore your air ducts and HVAC system to pre-fire condition. Our specialized cleaning solutions effectively remove smoke residues and contaminants without causing further damage to the system, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Ensuring Safety and Peace of Mind
By trusting the restoration of your air ducts and HVAC system to SERVPRO, you can rest assured that the job will be done safely and efficiently. Our team is dedicated to providing quality service and restoring your home to a clean and healthy state, giving you peace of mind during the recovery process.
In conclusion, restoring residential air ducts and HVAC systems after a fire is essential for preventing further contamination, improving indoor air quality, and ensuring the safety of your home. With our SERVPRO of Lake Arlington team's expertise and specialized equipment, you can trust us to restore your air ducts and HVAC system to pre-fire condition, helping you move forward with confidence after a fire incident.
Weather The Storm With SERVPRO
6/29/2023 (Permalink)
Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.
Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit North Texas, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.
Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 817-557-6895
Storm Season Is Approaching
6/29/2023 (Permalink)
It's storm season again! When the cold arctic air from Canada and the warm tropical winds from the Gulf of Mexico meet, this can cause major weather disturbances in North Texas. As everyone who's lived here a while knows we can see all kinds of damaging weather from torrential rains, ice, sleet, hail, high winds, and tornadoes. When these storms hit SERVPRO of Lake Arlington is ready to clean up the mess and make it "Like it never even happened." With over 40 franchises in the Dallas Forth Worth metroplex and our expert storm team always on the ready SERVPRO of Lake Arlington has the resources available to handle any size disaster. Our highly trained technicians will restore your property while providing excellent customer service in the process.24/7 we are here for you.
How Often to Clean HVAC?
5/23/2023 (Permalink)
We offer heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC) cleaning.
As you embark on cleaning your home, you may forget an important piece of machinery that needs cleaning and maintenance as much as the garage needs cleaning! Don't forget about your HVAC system.
Benefits of Cleaning Your HVAC
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), pollutant levels inside your home can be two to five times higher than outdoors pollutant levels, and the ventilation system is often the largest contributor to low indoor air quality! Many systems go a long time before being inspected and cleaned, so if your HVAC system is like most, your dirty vents might be circulating odors, mold, and irritating dust throughout your home, too.
The EPA reports contaminants or foreign objects such as rodents, insects, dust, dirt, debris, bacteria, mold, and pollen have the ability to enter and collect in your air ducts. So not only is your indoor air quality worsened, but these critters and allergens can cause long-term damages to your HVAC system.
Who Cleans Air Ducts?
Cleaning your HVAC system is no easy task without the right tools, but that’s where a professional in the industry like your local SERVPRO can help. We offer heating, ventilation, and air conditioning unit (HVAC) cleaning. In most cases, air duct cleaning is not essential to a smoothly run home, but after a major air-quality-reducing event like a fire with smoke or suspected mold growth, duct cleaning is absolutely essential to limit the circulation of contaminants throughout the house.
If your HVAC has been operating for some time without attention, it could be circulating the following:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Odors
- Dirt and debris
- Other contaminants
How Does SERVPRO Clean HVAC Systems?
Unlike most duct cleaning services, we use a Portable Ventilation & Air Duct Cleaning System to examine ductwork and sweep clean years of dust and grime.
This system allows us to:
- Remediate Bacteria, Fungi, and Mold
- Reduce Potential for Mold Growth
- Restore Peak Energy Efficiency
- Eliminate Offensive Odors
- Provide Free Written Inspections and Estimates
Our Duct Cleaning Process
- First, we use patented equipment, such as the roto-scraper, which automatically adapts to the duct's shape and diameter while traveling through the duct, removing debris and filth before vacuuming begins.
- Next, a powerful push-pull air delivery and collection system transfers the debris from the ducting to a 16-gallon container.
- Air is filtered through a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.97 percent of particles in the airstream. HEPA filters capture debris and keep the environment clean.
- As an optional process, a sealant or coating product may be sprayed to address odor or microbial concerns.
- Filters will either be cleaned or replaced to remove odor and dirt.
If you have other cleaning needs, we provide various cleaning services. Call (901) 382-0900 today.