When all the Power Goes Out

8/18/2022 (Permalink)

Power outages can cause an extensive list of issues that can carry a heavy price tag. When strong winds or heavy rains damage an nearby transformer, it could mean lights out and power off. Its important to take into consideration how many items in your home will no longer function without a power source. 

1) No air conditioning: Without a power source, your air conditioning will no longer function, in the summer months this raises the risk of heat related illness.

2) No heating either: Furnace blowers and electric heating units will no longer work during a power outage. In the winter months this could carry the possibility of your pipes freezing. Have your faucet set to a slow drip to avoid the danger.

3) Water: If your home runs on a well, you can find yourself without access to a water source. Keeping a supply of fresh water bottles available is one way to provide your family with water until electricity s restored.

Fridge/Freezer Woes: Perishable food in your refrigerator or freezer should remain cool enough for the following 24 hours after power loss. After that point it is important to inspect any food items and discard all that has spoiled.

Having emergency ready kits located in your home is a huge benefit in times like these. Be sure to add medical and medicinal items to have on hand as well.

When Storms or Floods hit, SERVPRO of Racine County is ready!

8/13/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Racine County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

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

We can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 2,000 Franchises across North America and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the Country.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 262-633-8888.

Tip on Heavy Rainfall

7/22/2022 (Permalink)

Heavy rainfall can cause damage to your property, here are a few tips to get you through the season with hopefully minimal damage.

Home and Business Tips

• Look into purchasing flood insurance. Call your insurance agent make sure flood insurance is right for you.
• Install rain gutters and other drainage systems. Clean out rain gutters frequently, proper water flow will direct water away from your property.
• Fix any leaks ASAP, a small leak can quickly turn into something greater.
• Extra roof protection. You can spend a bit more to install a rubber roof underlay, a waterproof barrier that goes under the shingles and protects the roof from water intrusion. This will also help with insulation in the wintertime.

Rainy Driving Tips

• Don’t use cruise control. This feature works great in dry conditions, but when used in wet conditions, the chance of losing control of the vehicle can increase, as you will have less control over the vehicle.
• Slow down and leave room in front of you. Slowing down during wet weather driving can be critical to reducing a car’s chance of hydroplaning, when the tires rise up on a film of water.
• Posted speed limits are the recommended speed during ideal conditions. Do not feel pressured to drive at the posted limit during a rainstorm, but do not drive too slowly either. As other drivers may have to make dangerous maneuvers to avoid you.

Spring is Approaching!

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Racine County specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

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 Racine County we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 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 

(262) 633-8888

Wisconsin Weather is like a Swinging Pendulum!

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Wisconsin has become a notorious swinging pendulum of back and forth weather patterns. From mild weeks spanning December, to biting cold and heavy snow fall in January, it’s hard to predict what could be headed our way. Naturally in the winter, flooding would be the last concern on our list of worries. But surprisingly, flooding can happen at any time of year, particularly in the cold months. There are numerous reasons as to why an area can flood during winter. Broken water pipes are a known culprit in the freezing temperatures. Sudden snow thaws can lead to a rapid amount of excess of bodies of water looking for a location to settle. Because the ground might still be in a frozen state, the water cannot be absorbed and will run off until it find a stream or lake that can withhold its mass. When this happens, flooding is almost always a side effect. There are a few steps that can be taken to be better prepared for these types of storm disasters. Especially, now that spring is approaching!

Insure yourself: Look into purchasing a flood insurance policy if you do not already have one in place.

Know it all: Get familiarized with what your insurance covers and what it does not

A Simple Plan: Always have a flood plan prepared which should include evacuation routes. Have important documents stored in a safe, waterproof location.

Picture This: Take photos of your possessions. It will be very useful for insurance claims should disaster strike.

Flooding can happen quickly and leave lasting and sometimes permanent damages to any home or commercial building. If you find yourself over your head, give SERVPRO of Racine a call and we will be there to help you every step of the way.

Fast Response to the Storm

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Racine specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained to the IICRC standards.  Our crews bring in specialized equipment to see where the water has traveled in your home, so they are able to dry out your home and restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Our staff are prepared to respond quickly to the storm.  SERVPRO of Racine is locally owned and operated, to respond to the damage quickly with the necessary resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, and helps limits further damage.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Racine County we are able to call in additional resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of over 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 

(262) 633-8888

Effects of Thunderstorms

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

When we think of severe weather, the damaging effects of thunderstorms can be easily overlooked. According to the National Severe Storms Laboratory, thunderstorms can be responsible for multiple causes of property loss. High winds, flash floods and lightning strikes are all possible when severe weather hits. It is essential to be prepared for whatever nature brings. Having an established ERP ( Emergency Ready Plan) for you business is a time and money saver. SERVPRO and our team of experts are ready day or night to assist you. We have the ability to formally create your ERP so you can be prepared for when the unfortunate happens. When disaster strikes, it can be upending, frightening and confusing. It puts your life on pause. Let us help you through the worst of it. 

Strong Storms

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes are a dangerous and deadly force of nature. Strong storm fronts our the next summer months have the recipe to bring with it powerful thunderstorms. It is important to know what to do to keep your family safe when caught in the chaos of severe weather.

1) Find shelter immediately. To minimize the possibility of lighting hitting, it is imperative you seek cover from the storm.

2) Stay away from all windows or ports of entry to the elements outside. Remain within the inner most rooms of your structure.

3) Do not touch or use anything electronic or made of metal.  

4) Just stay inside. It is the safest place to be until the weather clears.

Lightning has the potential of creating deadly consequences. Always remain calm and reference these steps to stay safe.

Storm Damage

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Racine specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

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 Racine County we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 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 

(262) 633-8888

Storm Damages to Your Home

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Storms can be a powerful and unexpected force of nature. As we all got to see first hand in Texas, even the most notoriously warm climates have been reaching freezing temperatures, creating a winter storm crisis in locations where people are not acclimated or prepared for the weather. Whether it be from snow, wind or heavy rains, storms can be devastating to your property in many different ways. When facing property damages after a storm, the scene may not be safe for you to remain living. If power lines were downed you may lose electricity and along with it the ability to heat or cool your home. SERVPRO has over 30 years of home and commercial building restoration and know how to mitigate any type of storm damage repair. We are available day and night to answer your call for help.

When Heavy Snowfall Turns Into Heavy Flooding

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy snowfall is something anyone living in the Midwest is all too familiar with. Within a matter of hours a once barren landscape can be blanketed in feet of snow that hadn't been there prior. Heavy snowfalls pose problems of their own, adding extra weight and stress to the structure of your building, bur rapid snow melts can be an even bigger issue. Flooding can happen quickly and with little warning. Excess water on your property can bring along with it an endless list of problems you may be left with facing. Water can be a destructive force and cause thousands in restoration costs. It is important to have your property properly repaired. SERVPRO has over 30 years of experience in storm restoration and are always available to answer your call.

Wind and Hail Damage Leave Their Mark

8/12/2020 (Permalink)

Storm conditions can produce a multitude of damaging effects. Most commonly we put flooding and water at the top of the list, but strong winds and hail damage also leave their mark. Aggressive winds have the ability to uproot trees which can cause thousands of dollars in property damages. Hail comes in all sizes and in many different weather conditions. Ranging from the size of a penny to the diameter of a baseball, these are produced when evaporated water freezes and falls from storm cells. Broken windows, dented and destroyed siding are just to name a few of what can result from hail damage. Not much can be done to prevent these types of property injuries. Be sure you are familiar with your insurance policy and what it covers. 

Rising Waters: Rising Cost

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

It is no secret that the weather patterns have drastically altered in the past two decades. Warmer temperatures around the world have contributed to rising levels of water in some areas, while creating a drought in others. If you happen to frequent our very own Lake Michigan, the effects can be witnessed first hand. A few homes have already been lost to an eroding coastline while others have lost property inch by inch, year by year. When water levels rise, the chances of flooding can become imminent. Water damages carry with them a heavy price tag as water has a negative effect on most everything it come into contact with. It is essential to be up to date on your insurance policy and know exactly what is covers. Flooring, drywall, electronics, and personal effects can all sustain damage and will need expert care to rehabilitate. Our crew of trained professionals have the tools and experience to handle your flood loss from beginning to end, taking the burden off your shoulders. Give us a call today!

Where There's Thunder: Lightning Damage

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes cause billions of dollars in property damage each year. Yes, you read that correctly. Billions. Lightning has many variables what make it dangerous and potentially deadly. Having a core temperature that reaches upwards of 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit fires easily explode from flammable materials such as wood or building structures. Home electronics and any item that is plugged in during a lightning surge could be ruined beyond repair in the matter of seconds. When a storm is approaching, it is best practice to unplug all electronic items to prevent surge damages. A secondary issue that can arise during lightning strikes are 'shock waves' which can fracture concrete brick and stone. Taking extra precautions during strong storms help lessen the possibility of lightning strike damage. 

Heavy Winds Pack a Punch

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know there is a difference between wind types? Straight line winds are often referred to damaging winds that are not a result of a tornado. A downdraft is referred to the heavy winds that occur from thunderstorm cell formation. These winds can reach speeds upwards of 50-60 miles per hour. Its not so much that the wind is blowing, its what the wind is blowing. Debris from the surrounding area is easily swept into the chaotic weather, causing structural damage and may even put your life at risk. Hail damage, roof shingle loss and downed trees are only scratching the surface of possible outcomes. When you find your home or business in dire need of restoration after damaging winds, give SERVPRO a call. 

Heavy Winds, Heavy Damage

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy winds and rain can cause extensive damages to your home or business. Once the weather clears you may be left with excessive repairs that need immediate attention. SERVPRO specializes in restoring your property to preloss condition quickly and professionally. Our technicians have the experience and skill to approach any weather related clean up with expertise and will always explain the process one step at a time. SERVPRO works closely with local businesses to help in the assistance in full property recovery. Many times landscaping issues may be a factor in the restoration of your property. We have the ability to have the right people with the correct equipment aid us in the rebuild of your yard as well as home or business. We are available day and night to answer your call if you are facing your own restoration needs and are available to answers any questions you may have.

Aftermath Of Ice Storms

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

When low temperatures arrive, those of us living in Wisconsin know what is sure to follow, ice and snow. Having preparations in place for this type of weather is a must. But what happens after the snow has fallen and ice begins to dam on your gutters and roof? Nothing good unfortunately. When ice builds up to form icicles, the risk of shingles being ruined and leaks forming is very high. Once water infiltrates your roof, you may begin to see water spots form on your ceiling and sometimes can be seen dripping down the walls. It is important to avoid further damages by quickly addressing the problem and having it repaired quickly and professionally. SERVPRO has the tools and expertise to help assess any weather related issues and the ability to mitigate and restore the damages, give us a call today.  

Power Outages During Stormy Weather

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

Thunderstorms are as unpredictable as they are dangerous. They have the ability to bring strong winds that can uproot trees and bring power lines down to the ground. When this happens there is a strong possibility you and the surrounding areas may be affected by power loss. When this happens all electrical items in your home or business will no longer have power available to function. It is vital to have an emergency plan of action in place. Having items you can use on hand to hold out until the power can be restored will prove to be essential. Flash lights with fresh batteries, non perishable food, water, candles and a first aid kit is a good starter set. Adding things like a deck of cards, dice or board games are also something handy to have to help pass the time. Having these items prepared will have you ready for many inclement situations and allow you to hold out until the power can be restored. 

Great Lakes Create Unpredictable Weather

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

Having the one of the Great Lakes in our backyard has many advantages. Fresh water is a benefit to all forms of life and can give a much needed respite from the scorching summer sun. Unfortunately, the drawback of living so closely to Lake Michigan is the unpredictable and at times dangerous weather patterns it brings with it. Winters have been an extreme force of nature the past few years with no signs of slowing down. Extreme weather can cause excessive damages to your home and property in multiple ways. Always be sure to weatherproof your windows, as they are a key element in retain cool air in your home in the summer, and prevents hot air from escaping in the winter. When you live in a location that can see searing hot temperatures in the summer and a polar vortex in the winter, it is essential to maintain the integrity of your home to stay comfortable and safe!

Storm Damage, Now What?

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

When heavy storms hit, there might not be time to prepare. Luckily, there are preventative measures you can take to ready yourself before dark clouds roll in. If there are signs of an impending storm, be sure to make sure any lose items such as umbrellas or trampolines are secured and park your car away from any trees and under cover. If it is safe, check downspouts and gutter to be sure they are free from debris. When the storm arrives, stay indoors and away from windows. Be prepared for power outages and the possibility of flood waters. If outside stay away from any type of waterway such as creeks and gutters. Once the storm passes, check your property for any damages. Keep clear of any down power lines. SERVPRO of Racine is always here to help, after disaster strikes

When the Thunder Rolls

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes are a dangerous and deadly force of nature. Strong storm fronts our the next summer months have the recipe to bring with it powerful thunderstorms. It is important to know what to do to keep your family safe when caught in the chaos of severe weather.

1) Find shelter immediately. To minimize the possibility of lighting hitting, it is imperative you seek cover from the storm.

2) Stay away from all windows or ports of entry to the elements outside. Remain within the inner most rooms of your structure.

3) Do not touch or use anything electronic or made of metal.  

4) Just stay inside. It is the safest place to be until the weather clears.

Lightning has the potential of creating deadly consequences. Always remain calm and reference these steps to stay safe.

Water, Water All Around: Winter Flood Awareness

2/1/2019 (Permalink)

Wisconsin has become a notorious swinging pendulum of back and forth weather patterns. From mild weeks spanning December, to biting cold and heavy snow fall in January, it’s hard to predict what could be headed our way. Naturally in the winter, flooding would be the last concern on our list of worries. But surprisingly, flooding can happen at any time of year, particularly in the cold months. There are numerous reasons as to why an area can flood during winter. Broken water pipes are a known culprit in the freezing temperatures. Sudden snow thaws can lead to a rapid amount of excess of bodies of water looking for a location to settle. Because the ground might still be in a frozen state, the water cannot be absorbed and will run off until it find a stream or lake that can withhold its mass. When this happens, flooding is almost always a side effect. There are a few steps that can be taken to be better prepared for these types of storm disasters.

Insure yourself: Look into purchasing a flood insurance policy if you do not already have one in place.

Know it all: Get familiarized with what your insurance covers and what it does not

A Simple Plan: Always have a flood plan prepared which should include evacuation routes. Have important documents stored in a safe, waterproof location.

Picture This: Take photos of your possessions. It will be very useful for insurance claims should disaster strike.

Flooding can happen quickly and leave lasting and sometimes permanent damages to any home or commercial building. If you find yourself over your head, give SERVPRO of Racine a call and we will be there to help you every step of the way.

Batten down the hatches: Blizzard prevention

1/29/2019 (Permalink)

Winter weather in Wisconsin is undeniably unpredictable and can potentially be deadly. With temperatures that can range anywhere across the scale, from mild and cool to subzero and catastrophic it is essential to know how to prepare for an incoming blizzard and or freezing temperatures. Listed below are steps to take in order to prevent disaster when the bitter cold is on its way.

Stock up shamelessly: When time is on your side and the winter storm has not yet hit, take that trip to the local store and stock up on the vitals. Non-perishable foods, batteries, flash lights, canned heat source, pet food and supplies, candles and medicine that you may need. Having salt to assist in ice on walkways is also a benefit. Emergency foods are a must. A few examples of survival foods:

• Crackers
• Granola Bars
• Canned fruit and veggies, tuna, soup
• Applesauce
• Boxed or canned juices
• Cereal
• Dry Milk

Roger that: Charge cellphones and spare charging units. It is also recommended you physically write down an emergency contact list in the unfortunate situation your phone may lose power. Family members, your power company and any other emergency numbers should be included on this list.

Lock it down: Storm proofing your home is another step to take when an impending storm is headed your way. Apply weather stripping to doors and windows. Covering your windows with plastic sheeting helps keep the cold at bay as well. Keep all unnecessary rooms closed off to help isolate the heat in rooms that are used. Stay indoors and restrict travel for emergency situations only.

These simple preventative measures can help you remain prepared and safe during the bitter cold months. Stay cozy out there Wisconsin!

Preemptive Measures: Unique Ways to Avoid Flooding On Your Property

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

It’s no secret that the damages of a flood affecting your home are devastating. The cleanup after such an event is almost worse than the flood itself. You are left with the remnants of beloved items. You are uprooted from your daily life and experience higher levels of stress than acceptable. Being able to avoid the catastrophic effects of flooding can restore your peace of mind, and also benefits the environment, if done correctly. Listed below are helpful tools to be used in order to prep your property for incoming water.

Plant a Rain Garden: A growing trend among homeowners is the design and installation of rain gardens. Using native plants with high water tolerance is key. They require almost no upkeep or watering between rainfalls and are helpful to our natural environment. Directing water from known flooding areas of your property, or planting directly on the location, these gardens retain and absorb excess water. Even a small addition of a rain garden has a huge impact on the water level on your property after a flood.

Heavier Mulch Will Help You Out: When mulching with lightweight materials, the odds of a misplaced mulch mess being handed to you is significantly high. Light materials are known to scatter in flooded conditions and to clog drainage ways. Hardwood mulch is heavier, making it more difficult to spread and is known for their low maintenance appeal.

Install a Green Roof: Now hear us out. It may seem excessive, or out of your budgets capabilities even, but you may be pleasantly surprised. The cost and labor needed to install these futuristic roof covers has been significantly reduced over the most recent years. As long as you have a flat or gently sloping roof you are in the clear. Not only do green roofs elongate the life of your roof, studies show it also increases insulation and reduces energy costs.

A Driveway That Drains: Second only to roofs, driveways are the biggest contributor to storm water run-off. Most commonly, swayes with drainage ports are installed on each side of your driveway, although it is not the most effective. Using spaced gravel or even grass greatly reduces the effects of flood water run-off. They are not only visually pleasing but a benefit to the environment.

Flooding can happen suddenly and with little warning. These simple and effective actions could save you a disaster on your hands. As always, SERVPRO of Racine is here to help you, when all else has gone wrong.

When Storms or Floods hit Racine is ready!

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage Racine

SERVPRO ofRacine specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

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 Lake Geneva we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 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 

(262) 248-7588