Preventing Water Damage Every Day | SERVPRO of Racine County

6/11/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Racine County is the fastest response to your call when you find water damage on your property.

Did you know that water damage is one of the top insurance claims homeowners make across the nation? When you consider all the different ways your home can be damaged by water, that makes sense—but it is still a pretty scary statistic to think about. 

Water damage moves fast, and a little bit of water can result in a whole lot of damage. The longer water sits, the more damage it does, and water damage often leads to mold growth and structural issues, too. 

With so much water moving in and out of the house on a regular basis, and so many ways it can end up in the wrong place, preventing damage is key. The good news is that preventing water damage is pretty simple when you add it into your regular routines. 

Fix Leaks Fast

When you hear a little drip or see a small spot of water, it can be easy to put checking on the cause down on a list to do later. A single leak can cause a pretty massive loss of water, though, and leaks under sinks can seep into the wall, floors and cabinets. 

Never ignore what appears to be an active leak. Check under your sinks weekly for signs of an issue. Run your hands along the pipes to feel for excess moisture and make sure everything is connected tightly. 

Along with checking under sinks weekly, you should also pay close attention to the fixtures in your bathroom. When you clean, take note of soft spots in the floor or worn-down caulk. Keep things tightly sealed. Even splashes from the shower or bathtub can cause damage over time, so make sure you have a long-enough shower curtain or that shower doors close tightly even when the shower is in use. 

Keep a close eye on water lines outside as well. With our extremely cold winters, this is especially crucial when the temperatures are low. Make sure there isn’t anything dripping and no visible signs of cracking. 

If you can shut the water off to your outside faucets in the winter, make sure you do so ahead of the first freeze. Cover your faucets as well to help prevent freezing. 

Maintain Large Appliances

Dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters and refrigerators are all susceptible to potential water leaks. Leaks in these appliances can be particularly dangerous because they often start underneath or behind the appliance and can go undetected long-term. 

Pull your appliances away from any walls they are near every few months to give the space around them a thorough cleaning. Check for mold spots, water puddles or musty odors. Make sure that water lines and hoses are all in good shape, and replace anything that is showing signs of wear and tear. You might consider having your water heater professionally inspected every year to ensure it is in good shape and avoid a potential failure later. 

Make sure you know where the main water shut-off valve is in your home. If water does start dripping—or worse, overflowing—turn the water off at this valve in order to prevent large amounts of water from taking over. 

By staying aware of potential hazards and keeping your home well-maintained on a regular basis, you can prevent water damage in your home. Get to know your risks, and learn how to respond quickly when something does happen. 

Do you have water damage in your home? Contact us to get things dried out quickly!

Leaky roofs are one of the most common causes of water damage

4/16/2022 (Permalink)

Water Damage from Washing Machines

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage from washing machines is one of the leading sources of residential water losses. The good news is that preventing water damage from washing machines is not as hard as you may think. Follow these tips to avoid water damage issues caused by a washing machine malfunction in your home.

-Regularly check water supply hoses (both hot and cold) for blisters, worn tubing, stress cracks or loose connections. Replace damaged hoses with newer types that are made of flexible plastic tubing encased in a stainless-steel braided exterior.

-Replace hoses every five years even if they don’t seem damaged to prevent water damage from washing machines. Deterioration may occur on the inside of the hose and may not be visible until it’s too late.

-Check the drain hose for wear and tear and to make sure it’s tightly inserted into the main drain line. Ensure it doesn’t dislodge when the washer agitates or drains.

-Leave at least four inches of space between the wall and your washer to prevent the supply and drain hoses from becoming kinked.

-Don’t overload the washing machine with laundry. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how full your washer should be. Distribute clothes evenly and loosely inside the machine.

-Use the right detergent for your washing machine in the correct amount to avoid suds and bubbles that can cause the washer to overflow. Read the instructions manual to learn which type of detergent is best for your machine and how much to use each wash.

When Water Damage Strikes!

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

The First 24-hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage within four house of receiving a loss notification. A SERVPRO of Racine County professional will be on-site to help ensure water damage is handled by completing the following steps such as:

1. Inspection- A SERVPRO professional will inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning the work.
2. Emergency Services – A SERVPRO professional will take the steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal property and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency service to you step-by step.
3. Monitoring – To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards a SERVPRO franchise professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated with you.
4. Restoration Services- SERVPRO franchise professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and contents. A final walk- through of the jobsite will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to its pre- loss condition!

When Water Damage Strikes! Call SERVPRO of Racine Country 262-633-8888

When Water Damage Strikes!

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

The First 24-hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage within four house of receiving a loss notification. A SERVPRO of Racine County professional will be on-site to help ensure water damage is handled by completing the following steps such as:

1. Inspection- A SERVPRO professional will inspect the affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning the work.
2. Emergency Services – A SERVPRO professional will take the steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal property and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency service to you step-by step.
3. Monitoring – To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards a SERVPRO franchise professional will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated with you.
4. Restoration Services- SERVPRO franchise professionals will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and contents. A final walk- through of the jobsite will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to its pre- loss condition!

When Water Damage Strikes! Call SERVPRO of Racine Country 262-633-8888

Emergency Water Damage Tips!

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

When water damage does strike here are some tips you can use before your SERVPRO of Racine County professional arrives to your home or business.

1. Make sure to shut-off water source, if possible or contact a qualified professional to stop the water source ASAP.
2. Turn-off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
3. Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
4. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
5. Move any paintings, art objects, computer documents, and other sensitive valuables to a dry place.
6. Do not enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers, or electrical equipment are exposed to water.
7. Always avoid electrical shock hazards. Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remover water! This could cause an electrical shock or damage the device.
8. Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

For more information on recovering from water damage, contact SERVPRO of Racine County directly at 262.633.8888

When Disaster Strikes

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

You wake up, stumble in the kitchen to make your coffee, and see it…Water pooling under your sink. Panic sets in. Few people think about what to do immediately after an appliance is leaking. That’s why the experts at SERVPRO of Racine County share these steps you can take as soon as you spot the leak.

1. Shut off the water source for that appliance.

The sooner you stop the water, the better in terms of damage and repair costs. Most times you’ll find the main water shut-off valves in your basement.

1. Determine where the water is coming from.

There are typically three main sources for most water leakage problems: a drain line, a supply line, or a burst pipe. Leaks in drain lines happen when a drain isn’t properly working. Whether a drain leak is fast or slow, it can cause bacteria to grow in the line. A leak in your supply line is coming from that pipe that brings water to your appliance. When you spot a burst pipe, the best thing to do is put a bucket underneath it to catch any leaking water.

1. Unplug any electronics near the leaking appliance.

As you know, water and electricity are a dangerous mix. Be sure to shut off and unplug any electronics near the leak. Your safety is paramount: If the leak seems excessive, turn off your home’s circuit breaker, and call your local electrician, as well as the water damage restoration professionals to assess the situation and return your home back to normal.

1. Take photos for your home insurance claims. 

It’s important to take photos of the leak and the subsequent water damage for insurance purposes, especially if the damage is extensive. Do this before cleaning up any of the mess so that you have accurate documentation of the leak and the property damage.

1. Call the professionals to repair the water leak and damage. 

You can attempt to identify the water leak type and resolve it yourself, but that may not be the best long-term solution. A wiser investment is to call the local plumbing professional who can fix your leak and appliance properly. If there is damage as a result of the leak, it’s also best to contact your local restoration company, too.

When Leaks Happen, Call SERVPRO Of Racine County 24/7

Don’t deal with the aftermath of water damage from a leaking appliance alone—trust a team of technicians who are equipped to help you around the clock, even on holidays. That team is your trusted neighborhood SERVPRO of Racine County. Fellow residents and businesses also rely on us beyond water damage restoration—we do everything form air duct cleaning and disinfecting to storm damage and mold remediation. Call 262-633-8888.

Flooding

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

An unpleasant and unexpected surprise to some homeowners facing water damages is that their insurance won’t cover the costs. This is, of course, dependent on the situation at hand and what events lead up to the damaged property. Homeowners insurance does not cover water damages resulting from floods. Nor do they cover water related losses occurring from lack of maintenance or neglect. There are a few grey areas when these situations arise. For example, if the roof of your home springs a leak, your insurance should cover it, unless it was caused by gross neglect. In the unfortunate scenario that wind damage destroys shingles, or if a tree crashes into your roof, the water damage resulting will be covered by your insurance. Our team at SERVPRO possesses the equipment and expertise to help in any situation life hands to you and will make it "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage at Summer Vacation Home

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

One of the worst vacation experiences is to arrive at your summer home, only to see it has been severely damaged by water. Water can enter your home in a variety of ways, and if you do not frequent the property often, they can pack a bunch in your wallet. Anything from leaky pipes to a ruptured washing machine hose can cause lasting and detrimental damages to your floors, walls and ceiling. It is imperative to have the excess water removed as quickly as possible, or you could be facing a mold growth issue. Our team at SERVPRO has over 30 years of experience in dealing with water loss on a commercial and residential level. We have the tools needed and the expertise to get started on repairs quickly and efficiently. Do not wait when facing water damages. Call us today! 

How Water Affects Your Home

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Water can cause lasting and devastating damages on your home or business. Even if the water is considered relatively clean, you may be left with a huge, unsanitary mess to deal with on your hands. When water comes into contact with materials such as drywall or upholstery you are looking at trouble. Water is the first stage of mold growth. Water logged materials left unattended even for short amounts of time allows spores to develop and spread. Warped flooring is almost always an issue to correct with water damages. Hardwood flooring has only a few hours for remediation to occur to avoid warped and ruined floorboards. SERVPRO has the equipment needed to quickly and thoroughly remove unwanted and contaminated water and begin the restoration process to get your property back on its feet.

Contaminated Water Cleanup

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

When you are faced with a backed up septic situation in your home or business, it can quickly turn into a health crisis. Bacteria sitting for any length of time can transport illness and disease that not only affects you and your family, but possibly your pets as well. Sewage and bio-hazardous material need to be cleaned up and decontaminated as quickly as possible. SERVPRO has the equipment needed along with highly trained professionals that know the ins and outs of bio hazard clean up. With over 30 years of experience we have seen and cleaned it all. When facing the daunting task of cleaning up a contaminated home or business, give SERVPRO a call. We are available day and night to answer your call for help.

When a Leak Turns Into Mold

3/11/2021 (Permalink)

A slow leak can go undetected for great lengths of time. Whether it was from a crack in the pipe or other faulty mechanics, a leaky pipe left unnoticed will most certainly create mold. Mold spores can travel throughout the materials of your wall, like insulation and drywall which can eventually send spores into the very air you breathe. It is important to have your home properly sanitized and the mold-infected material removed, once the leak has been fixed. Removing the damaged material can put your health at risk. It is always of good measure to enlist a professional to help you reduce the possibility of spreading the spores throughout your home. SERVPRO has over 30 years of experience in home remediation and are always available to answer your call for help. 

Water Damage Repair

2/11/2021 (Permalink)

Water has the ability to ruin your home from the inside out. Time is of the essence when your home, business and their contents come into contact with water. Once water has seeped into your drywall you will need to have the area professionally cleaned and dried out to prevent the risk of mold formation. Insulation between your walls also runs the risk of being damaged by unwanted moisture. Restoration can be time consuming if not handled correctly. SERVPRO has the tools needed and trained professionals mitigate the dirty work. Available all year, morning or night to answer your call or any questions you may have about your restoration needs. When facing unwanted water intrusion, don't wait to call SERVPRO. We are always here to help.

The Effects of Standing Water

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

When water finds its way into your home or business, many issues will follow. It is crucial to remove and dry standing water as quickly as possible. Hardwood floor stand almost no chance against holding water. Wood being a natural element absorbs and expands when moisture is added. Warping and swelling is close to follow, and if not handled immediately, they will need to be removed and replaced. Standing water poses a real threat of mold growth. Mold can effect any surface in your home, and can create a toxic living environment. With each passing minute, the cost for repairs grows. SERVPRO has the ability to arrive quickly on the scene to begin the restoration process. By removing all damaged materials we are better able to reconstruct your home safely. If you are experiencing water damages in your home, give us a call today!

Storm Water Damage

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

Heavy rains and a poorly functioning sump pump can spell out disaster for any homeowner or renter. Water infiltration can occur rapidly and sometimes with little warning. Within hours you could find yourself knee deep in a flooded basement. Rain water may seem harmless but the damages can be extensive, depending on how long the water sits and has contact with the interior of your home. Your carpet, drywall, flooring and sometimes ceiling can all be affected. Having the water and moisture removed quickly is essential in the avoidance of mold formation. When water sits for prolonged periods of time, mold spores begin to form and spread, causing further repairs that will be needed to restore your home to livable conditions. SERVPRO is available day and night to answer your call and any questions you may have. 

When the Levy Breaks

4/17/2020 (Permalink)

With ever changing weather patterns, it is important to stay current on your homeowner's insurance policy. Water damages can occur under many different types of circumstances and not all water coverage is the same. If poor maintenance of your home or business is found to be the source of water damage to your property, chances are you will be left to cover the bill out of your own pocket. SERVPRO has the ability to quickly arrive on the scene and begin water extraction immediately. The longer water sits, the more likely there will be secondary issues to address, such as mold. It is important to stay prepared for any poor weather that may arrive. If your roof needs repairs or your windows need to be resealed, it is best practice to do so before the water hits. 

Water, Water Everywhere When The Basement Floods

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

One of the most common occurrences in home and business damages would be water. Water comes in many forms, such as a broken pipe or a rain downpour it also can create many issues, on the outside of your property as well as in. When water come in contact with the interior of your home, immediate measures must be taken in order to prevent damages from worsening. SERVPRO has the ability to extract the water from your home using specialized cleaning techniques and equipment. We also use industrial grade sanitation and antimicrobial treatments to prevent the growth of mold. If you are experiencing a musty odor in your home from previous water damages, we have the ability to bring in air scrubbers and fogging equipment to remove the unpleasant scent. Give us a call today, we are always available to answer your call and questions. 

What To Do With Unwanted Water

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Water can infiltrate your home or business in many different ways. Freezing weather in the winter can cause pipes to break and water to flood. Severe weather is another contributing factor that can bring extensive water damages. SERVPRO has the tools and experience to help restore your space quickly and efficiently. We have specialized equipment and cleaning techniques that extract the excess water as well as steaming treatments that kill bacteria growth in your floors and walls. Water left to absorb in your flooring for any amount of time can cause irreparable damages. It is vital to remove standing water from hardwood floors as soon as possible. Even a few hours could mean the difference between repairing and replacing. If you find yourself with unwanted water on your hands (or in your house) call SERVPRO and we can begin repairs immediately.    

Pealing Paint : A Sign of Trouble?

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

In any room where heat and moisture are both present, issues can arise cosmetically. You may begin to notice bubbling paint, pealing and lifting from the ceiling or walls. Though time consuming, it can prove to be a simple fix. By taking a paint scraper and removing the paint pieces and sanding the area smooth you are prepped to add the moisture proof primer. This is an important step not to skip. If you just repaint over the existing damage you will only face the same issues in the future. Be sure to use ventilation if available. By keeping the are circulating it better allows moisture to dissipate than to cause damage. If you notice further damages such as water stains or the presence of water within your walls or ceiling you may be facing a larger problem and should consult professional advice.  

Does Your Insurance Cover Slow Water Leaks?

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

There are multiple reasons as to why water damages can become a bigger problem than you originally imagined. An unfortunate piece of information a majority of homeowners might not know, is that your homeowners insurance does not cover most water related damages. In the fine print of most insurance policies, you may discover that water damages are only covered by a sudden onset of heavy water related weather, . Meaning, that slow water dripping behind the kitchen sink will not be covered. Not the news you may have been hoping for when these scenarios play out. It is vital to prevent slow water leaks from progressing. Home owners insurance will not cover neglect. Our team at SERVPRO of Racine County have extensive training and state of the art equipment to help mitigate any water loss situation and begin the repairing process. Mold is a secondary issue that usually accompanies water loss situations. We have to tools to help clean and sanitize after your water loss. 

Is there saving water logged wood flooring?

8/5/2019 (Permalink)

One of the more frequent recovery tasks associated with major flooding recovery are water logged hardwood floors. There are many contributing factors that must be considered when attempting to save hardwood floor. One of those being the duration of time water has been in contact with the planks. The response time to addressing the removal of standing water significantly determines the extent of damages and if the floors may not be salvageable. The longer water has time to absorb into the wood, the more difficult it will be to save. Laminate flooring is not considered a hardwood and it treated differently than natural wood. Laminate flooring is far more susceptible to damages and are usually removed and replaced in the event of a flood. SERVPRO of Racine County has more decades of hands on experience and has seen the worst that floods can bring. We are available to answer any questions and help in every way we can.

Ceiling Stains: First signs of water damage.

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

Behind the walls of your home, secrets can be hidden. Without taking time to investigate, problems can grow. When a hidden leak begins to take it toll, you may not realize until extensive damage has been done. Here are a few warning signs of bigger messes to come.

1) When water is being held in your ceiling or behind your walls, the first indication is usually minor. Peeling and bubbling paint and wallpaper will appear, bloating over time. 

2) Staining and discoloration and changes to your floor, walls and ceiling are cause for concern. Don't let it go too long before investigating the cause.

3) Musty odors or unusual smells can also be an indication of water damage within your home.

SERVPRO has the expertise and team of professionals to tackle any water damage issues that may arise. Don't hesitate to call us today!

Stay Prepped

2/6/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can arrive in many different shapes and many different ways. From a slow drip to a burst pipe, water is a destructible force to be reckoned with. Though some situations may be unavoidable, such as a swell in a nearby river, there are certain measures you can take to help prevent home flooding. Preventative measures truly are worth the effort.

• What lies above: Inspection of your roof and shingles is essential because of its constant exposure to harsh elements. Keeping your roof well maintained is an important step in water damage prevention
• Gut it out: Good drainage in your gutters is one of the major steps you can take to avoid a water leak issue.
• Air tight: Caulking and sealing your windows is a great way to prevent unwanted water exposure.
• Pump up the jam: Testing your sump pump is vital in preparation of water damage avoidance.
• You OK in there? : Your plumbing and pipes within your home or business can be a major factor in water loss causes. Be sure to check on your pipes periodically to avoid any disasters.

Preparing your home in the event of a water loss situation can help you save money and time in the long run. Follow these tips to keep your head above water! 

I Saw the Signs: 4 Signs of Water Damage

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

When unwanted water seeps into places it doesn’t belong, it brings numerous issues along that can make matters worse. Water damage can become more serious as the problem goes undetected or unaddressed. Not only does water damage spread, it also becomes significantly at risk of mold formation in a short amount of time. Unfortunately, water damage isn’t always apparent. Our skilled technicians at SERVPRO of Racine County are equipped with infrared sensors which can detect temperature changes within the walls. But what are the signs to notice before you give us a ring? Here are 4 signs of impending water damage.

Do you hear what I hear? : Most of us are familiar with the sounds our homes make. From the rushing water of the plumbing systems, to creaking floorboards in the hallways, they become less alarming as time goes by. What you need to pay attention to are the different or unfamiliar sounds your home may be making. From a slow drip to flowing water, be aware of the sounds around you, they may indicate a larger problem.

What stinks? : When moisture comes in contact in dark places, a distinct scent of mildew is sure to follow. Trust your nose and follow it to the source. Early detection may help you prevent a huge mold infestation on top of the water damages.

From a puddle to a pool: Have you noticed explainable pools of water? Any puddles that keep reappearing after you’ve cleaned them? Chances are you are facing a leak somewhere in the area.

Cold Abode: Moisture and water tend to zap a home of heat, as it draws it in to evaporate. If your home is difficult to heat or your walls are cold to the touch, it may be an indication of moisture within.

When water damage presents itself unexpectedly, give us a call day or night and we will be there to make things right!

History Beneath Our Feet: Saving Hardwood

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

Hardwood floors are a classic signature to any home, bringing a warmth and delicate age to any environment they bestow. From old country farm homes, to sprawling warehouses hardwood flooring adds finesse. But with the sweets comes the sours. When water damage occurs, time is of the absolute essence. Warping and disfigurement from water can leave lasting and detrimental effects within an incredibly short amount of time. Some of which cannot be repaired to its original glory. That’s why one of the most useful methods of recovery from damaging water to natural hardwood floors is our highly effective Drying Mat System. Our mats have mastered the art of removing water vapor that has been deeply absorbed by wooden planks. Our system has saved countless dollars and spared even more headaches for our customer base. Our drying mats are surprisingly simple in design visually (a basic floor mat with a hose attached) but incredibly powerful. When a hometown customer of ours had a pinched line in their ice maker, it caused an incredible amount of access water which flooded her kitchen. Our team of meticulously trained experts at SERVPRO of  Racine was able to immediately address the situation and have the damage under control with the use of our Drying Mat System. Hardwood floors retain a time in history, some being centuries old. Being able to preserve what we can and restoring what we must is what makes what we do so worth it.

Racine 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

5/30/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Racine provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Racine

SERVPRO of Racine is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today – (262) 248-7588

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Racine has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Racine

SERVPRO of Racine 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.