Water damage is not always easy to find, especially in the bathroom.
Water damage is not always easy to find, especially in the bathroom. After all, water is a normal occurrence in bathrooms! A broken pipe or fixture is a clear sign of an issue; however, what about the hidden culprits like a cracked shower tile, unstable or old caulking and grout, or a leaky seal on base of the toilet bowl where tiny leaks are causing large amounts of damage to floor boards, ceilings, and walls as well as a potential drain on your wallet of thousands of dollars in repairs?
Knowing what to look for in the game of hide-and-seek “water damage style” is vital for property owners who want to prevent extensive water damage in your bathroom. Consider some of these hints for possible areas of water damage in your bathroom and take action quickly if you find them:
A Soft Floor
If you know your home was built with a wooden floor truss system, the sub floor is most likely made of plywood. If the plywood is subjected to moisture, the subfloor will rot and the floor will begin to feel soft or spongy in places. Your toilet may also feel unstable when you sit down. This could lead to your entire floor collapsing if left unattended.
Trust Your Nose
If you still smell something musty or damp after a thorough cleaning, it is probably due to moisture damage lurking behind the walls. Although many older homes have this smell, rooms with actual damage have a more prominent smell. Sometimes you might not be able to see it but be sure to trust your nose and call in our professionals to find the affected area.
Warped Walls
This is another clear sign that may point to an extensive problem. When drywall absorbs water, it begins to swell and becomes soft. Over time, the damaged area starts to crumble, especially around the baseboards. If you run your hand across the wall and it feels uneven or looks crooked when you look at it, have it checked by SERVPRO of Kendall County.
A leak can lead to more than just a discolored and damaged ceiling
If you notice a damp spot on your ceiling, it usually signifies a leak. Depending on your home, the source of the leak could be your roof or plumbing in one of the upstairs rooms.
Plumbing leaks often originate in bathrooms—and the chances are good that a water-damaged ceiling is the result of a leaky bathtub or pipe.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about addressing a bathroom or bathtub leak to prevent further damage to your home.
Determining the Cause of Your Bathroom Leak
The first step to addressing a leak is pinpointing its origin point. A bathtub leak is likely to blame when a downstairs ceiling is leaking from an upstairs bathroom. Bathtub leaks usually originate with the drain, the overflow drain, or a bathtub crack.
Once you’ve addressed the source of the damage, it’s critical that you 1) hire a licensed plumber and 2) hire SERVPRO of Kendall County.
The three most common sources of bathtub leaks are:
Bathtub Drain Leak: A leaky bathtub drain is a common cause of bathroom water damage. This type of leak occurs when the drain and attached lines beneath your tub may weaken, causing the seals to fail or cracks to form. This drip, even if slow, will result in water damage to the infrastructure below the tub area.
Bathtub Overflow Drain Leak: Every tub is equipped with an overflow drain to preemptively stop a tub from overflowing into your bathroom. Unfortunately, as tubs age, this overflow drain may crack, break, or leak. Most likely it is the drain gasket. Like a drain leak, a bathtub overflow drain that is leaking may cause damage to your home.
Bathtub Crack Leak: Perhaps the leak isn’t from the pipes at all. Bathtub leaks can be from discrete hairline fractures in the body of the tub itself. This type of leak can be easily missed. To determine if a crack in the bathtub is the source of your leak, fill the tub with water. Allow the water to be still and look for areas that pull the water. Those small currents are flowing to your bathtub crack.
Don’t get caught off guard by flooding in your rental.
What to Do When Your Apartment Floods
1) Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
The first thing you should do if your apartment floods is to make sure everyone is safe, including your pets. A small leak with water contained in one area or one room is not as much of a hazard as inches or even feet of water from a natural disaster. Use common sense, be safe and then move to step two.
2) Contact Your Landlord or Property Manager
If there is a broken pipe, a leak from the tenant above you or water coming from another source, the first thing you should do is call your landlord or property manager. With any luck, they can respond immediately and stop the water and reduce the damage. If you can do it safely yourself, turn off the source of the water. Whether that’s a valve that you can shut off or an appliance you can turn off, stop the water if you can.
3) Save Your Stuff!
If you can, move furniture and belongings from the flooded area. Put them in another room or put them up high and out of the water’s reach. If the entire apartment is flooded, do what you can to save as much as you can. It’s important to remove your valuables, especially if you’ll be displaced by the flooding. Put them in your car or take them to a friend or family member’s house for safekeeping.
4) Follow Up on Restoration Plans
Ensure your landlord calls SERVPRO of Kendall County. Nothing is more important to flood recovery than a quick response by a restoration company.
When you are handling water damage, immediate action is important.
Regardless of where you live, a leak, plumbing system backup or a significant storm can create a flow of water in the most inconvenient places requires prompt action to offset many types of damage to your home or business, as well as its contents.
The presence of moisture in the wrong places can cause various types of risk. There is physical damage to the structure itself, as well as to its furnishing and fitting. There is the risk of disease from germ and bacteria-laden backup from sinks, showers, drains, and toilets. If the moisture is not addressed quickly, the dampness can harbor mold and mildew that creates an environment for diseases, respiratory problems and even fatal conditions.
The immediate flow of liquid can destroy foundations as well as the entire structure. Many people do not realize the damages that flowing water can do. It is also true that a seep or drip of water can cause destruction if not addressed promptly and in an effective manner. There are multiple steps that need to happen when looking at reversing the problems caused by unwanted water.
If possible, the first step in restoring your property following a flood, leak or backup is to stop the flow of moisture, regardless of the type of force. This may mean shutting off the main valve if it is possible to do so safely. Care should be taken to avoid stepping into puddles or flow which might be in contact with electrical power. So, shutting off the power to the structure is recommended in many instances. If the shut-off is easily accessible, it can be done by the home or business owner, otherwise, the next step is to contact us for a prompt response.
When SERVPRO of Kendall County arrives, they will do an assessment of the cause. The removal of as much of the liquid as possible will help to prevent further destruction. This can be done through the use of pumps, or other equipment. Our technology allows us to remove excess moisture as quickly as possible. High power, industrial strength fans may be brought in to dry out the dampness.
Once the area is dried out, there will be a need to remove structural elements, furnishing, and fixtures which are damaged beyond repair. These materials must be removed to avoid the growth of mold or organisms which can interfere with health. If needed, the cause of the leak or other damage needs to be repaired.
Surfaces which have been subject to dampness should be treated to avoid the growth of mold. Mold can be a risk to your health, especially if the spores have gone airborne.
The most effective water heater maintenance can additionally minimize the likelihood of breakdowns, which is important in ensuring minimal disruption
Maintaining your water heater is vital for many reasons. It is likely that you don’t realize how much you actually rely on your water heater. Your water heater provides many integral components to your home’s functionality, including allowing you to wash dishes and take showers. Without hot water, you won’t be able to effectively kill germs and thoroughly clean anything. The appropriate maintenance can extend the lifetime of your water heater. It can also enhance the overall energy-efficiency of your water heater, which goes a long way toward minimizing your related energy expenses.
1. Regularly Inspect
It is important to take time to regularly inspect and examine your water heater. These inspections can help you to catch potential issues in the early stages, which is when they will be far easier to repair. Take a brief moment to ensure that your water heater is continuing to function appropriately and efficiently.
2. Flush Yearly
It is important to drain your water heater on a yearly basis. This will allow you to clean out the interior of the tank and remove the buildup of sediment. Though sediment may not actually damage a water heater, it has a substantial impact on the overall efficiency of the heater. In order to effectively drain your water heater, it is important to shut off the water and the power to the water heater. You can then attach a hose to the water heater and drain the remaining water out of the tank. Allow the water to cool before accomplishing this step. After you have cleaned the tank out, you can refill it and turn it back on. Don’t turn the water heater back on until after it has been filled. Otherwise, it will put unnecessary strain on the heater as it tries to heat water that isn’t present.
3. Insulate Tank
Insulating the tank can provide many benefits for a water heater. Not only will it reduce energy expenses, but it can also extend the overall lifetime of the water heater. An insulated tank will prevent heat from escaping, which means that the water heater won’t have to work as hard to heat the water. This requires less energy, which will lead to lower energy bills. In addition, it reduces the overall amount of strain that is placed on the tank, which ensures that it lasts for much longer.
4. Lower Temperature
Most water heaters are originally set at a temperature that is far higher than is practical. In fact, this can actually be dangerous as it can cause water to be heated to a temperature much higher than is safe, resulting in burns. Many water heaters are set as high as 140° when all potential uses for hot water can be accomplished with temperatures of 120° or lower. Not only will lowering the temperature to 120° lower your overall energy expenses, but it will also prevent burns and injury.
5. Test Temperature Pressure Relief Valve
Test the temperature pressure relief valve on a regular basis to ensure that it is operating as it is intended to. This valve is in place to release pressure when it builds up too much within a water heater. You can test the TPR valve by inserting a bucket beneath the discharge pipe that is connected to the valve. After you have a bucket in place, you can lift the lever. If water comes out and stops when you lower the lever, the temperature pressure relief valve is functioning effectively. However, if water doesn’t come out or there is significant leakage, it is likely that the valve will need to be replaced.
6. Replace Anode Rod
The anode rod is an important component of a water heater and it needs to be replaced regularly, generally around 5 years. The rod attracts corrosive minerals in the water so that they corrode the rod rather than the inside of the tank. When this rod has worn out, the corrosive minerals can wreak havoc on the interior of the tank. It is vital to ensure that your anode rod is still functioning appropriately to protect your water heater.
7. Replace the Air Intake Filter
Tankless water heaters use air intake filters. These filters keep debris from entering into the heater, which allows it to continue functioning effectively and easily. These filters need to be changed regularly to ensure that they continue to provide the necessary functions.
8. Insulate Pipes
Not only is it beneficial to insulate the tank of the water heater, but it can also be helpful to insulate the pipes connecting to the water heater. This is especially important during the winter months, when pipes can reach dangerously cold temperatures. Insulating the pipes can prevent water from freezing in the pipes, which can lead to burst pipes that can cause extraordinary amounts of damage. There are many ways to easily insulate pipes, which can help to protect your entire building.
9. Obtain Professional Inspection
Though you can regularly inspect your water heater, obtaining the services of a professional will be far more effective. They have the experience and knowledge necessary to ensure that they will be able to catch potential issues in the early stages. Effectively maintaining your water heater can go a long way toward preventing serious issues from occurring. However, there are also many different types of water heaters, so it is vital to understand how to maintain your specific water heater.
When issues arise with your water heater, they can significantly disrupt your life. Regular maintenance can go a long way toward preventing these issues and ensuring that your water heater continues to operate efficiently. Not only will this lower regular energy expenses, but it will also lower the likelihood of repair and replacement expenses.
Myths and Misconceptions about Residential Water Damage
Knowing the facts about water damage can help you take proactive actions to protect your home and your family from leaks both big and small.
Although water damage is the most frequent cause of loss to luxury homes, most people don’t appreciate the specific impact it could have on them—and therefore don’t take proactive steps to avoid it. Following are the water damage assumptions we encounter most often, along with the real facts based on our analysis of thousands of water damage claims. Anticipating and dispelling these notions up front will hopefully help you sidestep costly losses (and headaches) in the future.
MYTH: “It won’t happen to me”
Internal plumbing system water losses (from pipes, appliances or fixtures) are the number-one cause of damage to luxury homes. Water damage occurs more frequently than fire, theft, flooding or any other type of home loss. Most people know someone who has had a water loss if they haven’t experienced one firsthand. Those in the northern parts of the U.S. are particularly vulnerable, when frequent and prolonged periods of severe cold cause hundreds of frozen pipes at a time.
MYTH: “I had water damage in my home. But now that we fixed the cause, it won’t happen again.”
It’s understandable to consider water damage to be an unlucky, one-off event. However, our data revealed the opposite to be true. Claims analysis shows that a home that has had an internal system water loss is at least twice as likely to have another water loss, even after the original repairs were made. In some cases, it’s up to 3.5 times more likely to happen.
MYTH: “A water loss won’t really impact me, because my insurance company pays for the damages.”
Because water damage costs in most cases will be covered by one’s insurance company, people assume there will be little-to-no additional impact to their lives. However, a reimbursement check cannot restore sentimental or one-of-a-kind items ranging from children’s artwork and cherished letters to heirlooms and other original documents. Family members will have to live through disruptive repairs or be displaced from home altogether. It also can take weeks to replace furniture and other damaged belongings—particularly when items are custom-made. In fact, the average water damage claim duration for a luxury home is between two and three months. Increasing concerns about mold issues are also adding to the time required for remediation.
MYTH: “I have a high-end home, so I’m less likely to have a problem.”
Water damage claims have been on the rise for the last decade, particularly among those with a high net worth. Luxury homes inherently have more at risk, as they typically have more than 40 water points in the home: multiple bathrooms and numerous water-based appliances. The more water points in a home, the higher the loss frequency. Each water point represents an opportunity for failures linked to connection points, supply hoses, valve assemblies, as well as the fixtures and appliances themselves.
MYTH: “Water damage isn’t that expensive to repair.”
In addition to increased loss frequency, luxury homes typically endure much higher loss severity. These properties often feature customized wall, ceiling and floor finishes, custom trim and woodwork, imported materials, expensive electronics with extensive wiring, and bespoke amenities like wine cellars, golf simulator rooms and home theaters. Even a little water in the wrong place can causes a catastrophic loss. For example, one section of damaged custom wood flooring may require an entire level of the home to be replaced.
MYTH: “There’s nothing I can do to prevent water damage.”
There are many ways in which homeowners can combat the likelihood and severity of water damage. Here are a few recommendations:
Home Maintenance
Implement scheduled maintenance plans for HVAC systems, plumbing systems (including water heater review), fire sprinkler systems (done by a certified fire sprinkler company), sump pump systems and roofing systems.
Use steel-braided hoses on washing machines rather than rubber, and replace them every ten years.
Regularly inspect water supply lines under sinks and appliances. Replace inexpensive plastic tubing and valves with metal or steel-braided connections.
Water Damage Mitigation Devices
Install automatic shutoffs in HVAC air handler drip trays in case drain lines clog and back up.
Install individual appliance shutoff systems on washing machines, hot water heaters or dishwashers.
If they start to leak for any number of reasons, the water to that appliance will shut off immediately.
Install centrally monitored water sensors at water points in the house to send an alert if anything leaks or overflows.
The best protection is to install a whole house shutoff device, which acts as a 24/7 security guard for the home. It senses leak anywhere in the home, including pipes, fixtures and appliances, and shut the water before damage occurs. Many devices are IoT enabled, with apps that notify users of issues such as leaks, freezing temperatures or unusual water use.
Other Proactive Best Practices
During subfreezing temperatures, vacant homes should be checked twice a day. Also implement a cold weather protocol, such as opening vanity doors to allow heat in, allowing a slow drip of water in bathrooms most susceptible to freezing, and making sure heat is kept at 65 degrees or more.
Install a basement sump pump. If one is already in place, make sure it has a backup power supply.
If planning renovations, consider installing additional loss prevention measures that are best done during construction.
MYTH: “Whole house shutoff systems are too complicated.”
Whole house shutoff devices provide the best protection from a catastrophic internal system water loss. Initially there may be a learning curve, as with any new home, but most devices are now Wi-Fi connected and app enabled, making them more user friendly than ever.
Water damage comes in many different forms and can occur in many different areas of the house.
There is nothing more important than knowing what to look for when you are looking to buy a home. Understanding all the elements you need to check and what you need to look out for throughout this process is vital. Water damage is one specific issue you should keep a lookout for. Water damage comes in many different forms and can occur in many different areas of the house. Educating yourself on water damage will keep you from purchasing a home that is not structurally safe or could be a health risk to your and your family. Provided below are a few pointers on how to identify water damage in a prospective home. Hopefully, when combined with your intuition, these tips will lead you to find your forever home.
What Signs To Watch Out For
Though there are numerous areas and ways your house could have water damage, the issue occurs more often in certain locations. Listed below are a few common signs that you should watch out for when touring a home.
Water Stains: While water stains are most often found on the ceiling, they can also be located on the walls. Make sure to keep track of areas where you have identified water stains.
Soft/Sagging Floor Spots: Keep a close eye out for these spots near the tub, shower, and sink. At times, these areas can be caused by a leaky or broken appliance.
Watermarks Under Cabinets: You might not think to look here, but you certainly should. If you find a damp or moist area underneath a cabinet or discover signs of mold, it’s likely that there is a leaking pipe somewhere nearby.
Warped Flooring: All flooring types can be damaged by water. Though this issue is often easy to identify, you should still make sure to check the corners of each room for signs of damage.
Some of the issues above might not be big problems that will keep you from buying a home, but you will need to make that educated decision yourself. Not identifying these issues will only lead to further trouble and frustration down the road.
OUTDOOR FAUCETS: THE ONE THING YOU SHOULD NEVER FORGET TO DO IN WINTER
An outdoor water faucet is especially vulnerable to the cold, so it’s extremely important to prep your water faucets for the winter.
If you own a home, chances are pretty good that you have at least one outdoor faucet. With outdoor faucets, it’s exceptionally important to remember to detach your garden hoses at the end of the season, close the inside shut-off valve(s), and drain the faucet fixture before it freezes.
Water expands when it freezes, and nothing changes that. How much does frozen water expand? Ice takes up nearly 10% more space than the same amount of liquid water does. Unfortunately, in the case of a water pipe, the pipe is already full when water is in a liquid state, so there’s no room for expansion if the temperature drops low enough for the water to freeze. Once the water in the pipe freezes, something’s got to give, and it’s usually the pipe itself, the valves, the joints, or maybe even all three.
An outdoor water faucet is especially vulnerable to the cold, so it’s extremely important to prep your water faucets for the winter. The heat from your home that is transmitted through the pipes most likely won’t be enough to protect your outdoor faucet. Here’s what you can do to help prevent a watery disaster from striking in the middle of winter!
CLOSE THE SHUT-OFF VALVE FOR THE FAUCET
From the inside of your home or building, close the shut-off valve that controls the flow of water to the outdoor faucet(s). If the valve isn’t set back from the outer wall of your home, an accidental freeze can damage your shut-off valve, making it impossible to stop the flow of water. If your shut-offs are very close to the outer wall of your home, consider moving them back farther into your home to better protect them from freezing.
DISCONNECT YOUR HOSES!
Leaving a frozen, water-filled hose attached to the outdoor faucet is asking for trouble! Disconnect your garden hoses, drain them and hang them up for the winter. Your hoses will last longer, be better protected from the elements, and will be less likely to leak at the connectors. They’ll also be less likely to develop splits that will leak when the hose is pressurized.
DRAIN THE FAUCET
Finally, open the faucet and let any residual water drain out of the pipe. Draining the outside faucet is critical because standing water between the inside shut-off valve and the outdoor faucet can freeze and break both the fixture and shut-off valve. Creating an air space within the short segment of pipe gives any residual water room to expand if it freezes.
As an added measure of safety, insulate your pipes. Pipe insulation is inexpensive and can help protect your plumbing and valves from extreme temperature variations. Seal any open spaces, gaps, or foundation cracks that can allow cold air to circulate around your pipes. Close all basement windows and foundation vents in the winter to prevent cold outside air from reducing the ambient temperature in unheated crawl spaces and basements.
Finally, be aware that sometimes pipes and fixtures that have frozen and thawed don’t start to leak until the full water pressure is re-applied. In the spring, check your outdoor fixtures for leaks, even if you have taken steps to protect them from winter ice damage.
It’s hard not to panic when a pipe in your home bursts or a drain backs up. Of course, the very first thing you should do is locate your main water stop valve and turn it off (by turning the small wheel clockwise). This is usually located in your basement near the front foundation wall or inside a crawl space if you have one. It might also be near your water heater.
What’s next? Here are five essential tips for drying out after major water damage:
Extract – The most obvious first step is to call SERVPRO of Kendall County to extract as much of the water as possible. We use professional-grade vacuums and pumps to remove excess water from floors, furniture, and carpets.
Remove – It’s critical to remove wet carpet and furniture when mitigating an area. Some carpet can be dried and saved, but if your flood was caused by a sewer backup, it will need to be thrown away. Either way, this is usually a hefty job and best saved SERVPRO of Kendall County.
Evaporate – Wood framing, subfloors, and drywall become saturated with water during a flood, so it’s important to dry them out fast to minimize the growth of bacteria and mold. Commercially available fans are helpful, but professionals typically use industrial air movers, which are much more powerful and help speed the evaporation process along exponentially. We generally use one of these industrial air movers for every 10 feet of wall space.
Dehumidify – The evaporation process increases humidity levels, so it’s important to remove any air moisture. Industrial dehumidifiers are best because they work fast and are more powerful. If you live in a dry climate where the humidity outside is lower than the inside, opening doors and windows is great—but be sure to close them if the outside humidity rises.
Heat – Warm air helps dry things more quickly, so as long as your furnace and air conditioning units were not flooded (which can cause contamination), you can turn on the heat to increase the drying rate.
Of course, drying out is only part of the battle when you’re dealing with the aftermath of a flood. It’s also important to disinfect the area properly to prevent the growth of mold and remove any harmful biological contaminants and microbes. This is something SERVPRO of Kendall County can help with, of course. We use industrial-strength disinfectants and equipment to ensure every home or property we clean after a flood or sewage backup is restored to its original condition.
Hardwood is one of the flooring types most susceptible to water damage.
Flooring is an essential — if not underappreciated — element of the home. While your family relies on sturdy flooring for everyday activities, perhaps this is most clear when your floors become damaged.
Your floors may experience water damage for many reasons — including water heater leaks, broken pipes and natural disasters like hurricanes or floods. However the incident occurs, odds are you’re left asking whether you should replace or repair your floor.
Each situation is different, but details like the type of flooring, the extent of damage, and the cost of repairs versus replacement will help determine which decision is best for you. Here are some tips for dealing with water-damaged floors.
If you’ve experienced a leak, flood or another water-related incident, it’s important to check the flooring around the affected area. Pay special attention to water damaged hardwood floors. Hardwood is one of the flooring types most susceptible to water damage. The longer your flooring was wet, the deeper the water may have traveled.
Odds are, you’ll know if the floor sustained damage when you inspect it. Abnormalities are typically clear signs of water damage.
Here are some specific issues to look for in your flooring:
Buckling: Buckling occurs when the flooring detaches from the subflooring beneath it. Your floor may separate at the seams or peel upward.
Crowning: When flooring loses moisture, it can shrink on the underside. This moisture loss leaves planks rounded, with a high point in the middle and low points on the edges.
Cupping: When your floor absorbs moisture, plank edges may curl upward — leaving the middle of the plank with a slight depression.
Discoloration: Any change in color may indicate mold or mildew. Inspect new stains and dark spots for growth.
Warping: Any abnormal bubbling, peeling, cracking in the flooring could indicate damage.
Odor: Unusual odors could indicate mold and mildew in the flooring or subflooring.
If the flooring shows only minor indications of damage, you may be able to resolve the issues by thoroughly drying the affected area. If not, you’ll need to consider restoration options. Some damage only appears after several hours, so give your flooring plenty of time to dry and show changes.
After you’ve identified the type of water damage your flooring has, you can decide whether you want to repair or replace it.
Hardwood is one of the flooring types most susceptible to water damage.
Flooring is an essential — if not underappreciated — element of the home. While your family relies on sturdy flooring for everyday activities, perhaps this is most clear when your floors become damaged.
Your floors may experience water damage for many reasons — including water heater leaks, broken pipes and natural disasters like hurricanes or floods. However the incident occurs, odds are you’re left asking whether you should replace or repair your floor.
Each situation is different, but details like the type of flooring, the extent of damage, and the cost of repairs versus replacement will help determine which decision is best for you. Here are some tips for dealing with water-damaged floors.
If you’ve experienced a leak, flood or another water-related incident, it’s important to check the flooring around the affected area. Pay special attention to water damaged hardwood floors. Hardwood is one of the flooring types most susceptible to water damage. The longer your flooring was wet, the deeper the water may have traveled.
Odds are, you’ll know if the floor sustained damage when you inspect it. Abnormalities are typically clear signs of water damage.
Here are some specific issues to look for in your flooring:
Buckling: Buckling occurs when the flooring detaches from the subflooring beneath it. Your floor may separate at the seams or peel upward.
Crowning: When flooring loses moisture, it can shrink on the underside. This moisture loss leaves planks rounded, with a high point in the middle and low points on the edges.
Cupping: When your floor absorbs moisture, plank edges may curl upward — leaving the middle of the plank with a slight depression.
Discoloration: Any change in color may indicate mold or mildew. Inspect new stains and dark spots for growth.
Warping: Any abnormal bubbling, peeling, cracking in the flooring could indicate damage.
Odor: Unusual odors could indicate mold and mildew in the flooring or subflooring.
If the flooring shows only minor indications of damage, you may be able to resolve the issues by thoroughly drying the affected area. If not, you’ll need to consider restoration options. Some damage only appears after several hours, so give your flooring plenty of time to dry and show changes.
After you’ve identified the type of water damage your flooring has, you can decide whether you want to repair or replace it.
Be prepared and informed if you ever have water damage in your home.
1. Call Your Insurance Company
Your homeowners’ insurance will vary depending on what policies you have. The insurance company will send an adjuster to look at and assess the damage and determine if it is a covered loss.
Document the values of each and every item you can think of and take as many photos as possible before, during, and after cleanup. This will help the adjuster when he or she is able to come to assess the damage.
2. Protecting Yourself, Appliances, and Valuables
The most important step in any major home disaster like flooding and water damage is to make sure you and your family are safe. There are several things you can do to stay safe in your home.
Turn off the power
Water and electricity obviously do not mix. But, if turning off the power requires you to enter or stand in wet areas it is best to leave it alone and call an electrician. Do not reenter a flood-damaged home before turning the electricity off.
Wear Protective Gear
Be sure to wear protective clothing–such as rubber boots and gloves–when you re-enter your home. This will protect you from injuries that can get bacteria-filled water in them.
Protect Your Valuables
You can lift wood furniture off the wet carpet areas and insert small blocks under the feet to prevent staining of the carpet. Likewise, remove any rugs that may be on wet flooring.
You may be forced to leave your home if the flooding is bad enough. Make sure it is also safe when you return to your home to begin dealing with the aftermath.
3. Start Water Damage Repair Immediately
Before starting the process of water damage removal in a flooded home, be sure to document all of the damage first. This will help with any future insurance claims you make.
If possible, water damage restoration should start 24-48 hours after you’ve been cleared to re-enter your home. In many situations, the damage is too extensive for one person or family. Get help from SERVPRO of Kendall County to stay safe and ensure thewater damage removal process is done correctly.
Be aware that you may need to remove flooring, drywall, and insulation to prevent mold and mildew from spreading in your home. Furniture may also need to be dried out, cleaned, or thrown away depending on the level of water damage. Water and moisture can damage hardware floors quickly, so this process should be started as soon as possible.
4. Identifying Mold
Mold can begin growing after the first 24 hours of a flood, and once it has started growing it can be difficult to remove. The quicker you remove items from water and begin drying them, the less likely they are to be lost to mold.
If it gets bad, you’ll often have to completely remove the affected areas. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and have a professional assess the situation.
As soon as you discover water damage in your home, it’s important to take what measures you can to prevent mold. Be careful that you’re not spreading mold spores throughout your home as you’re attempting to dry things out.
Usually, it’s best to have SERVPRO of Kendall County assist with the drying process, significantly lowering the chances of getting mold.
5. Deciding What Needs To Be Restored After Water Damage
The repair of water damage in your home from flooding is typically what takes the longest amount of time. Flooring and sometimes even walls need to be replaced, broken possessions are often in need of repair, etc. If major construction is needed, make sure you hire SERVPRO of Kendall County.
6. When To Move Back Into Your Home
Once you have the go-ahead from your insurance company, SERVPRO of Kendall County, and your local government(in the case of natural disasters), it’s time to move back into your clean, dry, mold-free home!
Few things are as stressful to homeowners as water damage.
Few things are as stressful to homeowners as water damage.
At its worst, moisture has the potential to damage your home beyond affordable repair, with heavy structural consequences that include mold, wood rot, and even foundation cracks. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch it early and stop it before it spreads. But even small leaks that allow rainwater into the house can require major repairs to keep moisture at bay.
The best way to deal with water damage is to stop it before it starts. Here are measures that you can take to prevent water from entering your home from outside.
Waterproof your homes exterior
The exterior of your house is its first line of defense against water damage. Protect your home from the outside by maintaining the exterior.
Maintain Your Roof Properly handling the water that flows down your roof is essential.
Your roof’s primary purpose is to keep water out of your house. Neglecting it could lead to a whole host of problems, the worst of which includes extensive water damage that could compromise the structure of your home. Most roofs have a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, so it’s easy to think that if yours is still within its period of usability, it’s fine. But that’s not necessarily true.
Climate, weather conditions, and even nearby trees can cause damage to roof shingles. Periodically inspect your roof damaged, loose, or missing shingles. Replacing any shingles that are missing or in poor condition is a quick and inexpensive project that can extend the life of your entire roof.
Seal Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are common vulnerable sites for water leakage. Water can seep in through the space around window and door frames if they’re not properly sealed. Don’t wait for a leak. Ensure that the weatherstripping and sealing around your windows and doors are in good shape.
Inspect the outside of your windows and doors. Any large cracks between the frame and the house can be injected with insulating foam sealant. Prevent other leaks by applying a fresh bead of caulking where the window meets the siding. Even a fresh coat of paint on window and door frames can block moisture from penetrating the wood.
Maintain Your Home’s Exterior Finish
Signs of water damage on your house’s interior walls that don’t seem to have a source, such as a mold, peeling paint, or discoloration, could be due to water entering through holes in your exterior walls. If your siding and exterior paint aren’t well-maintained, water could be leaking through to the inside of your home.
Periodically inspect your exterior walls. Look for signs of damage in your sidings, such as holes, wood rot, or warping. If caught early enough, you may be able to clean out the wet materials and repair only the affected siding.
Most common exterior siding, including stucco, aluminum siding, wood siding, and cedar shingles, need to be painted in order to protect your home properly. Paint adds more than just aesthetic appeal—it seals and protects your siding against rain, sleet, and snow.
Ensure proper drainage
You can take measures to keep water out of your home, but waterproofing alone isn’t enough to protect your home from water damage. If water isn’t properly diverted away from the base of your house, your foundation could be at risk. And even the best waterproofing measures are no match for standing water that collects on or around your house in areas of poor drainage.
Clean Your Gutters
Depending on surrounding tree coverage, gutters need to be cleaned out two to six times a year to ensure the proper flow of rainwater.
Making sure your gutters function properly is critical to protecting your home from water damage. If your gutters are full of leaves and pine needles, or not angled properly to funnel water to the downspout, then water will run down the side of your house and collect at the base, which could put your foundation at risk.
Check Your Downspouts
Downspouts should direct water at least three feet from the exterior walls of a home.
Functioning gutters send water out through the downspout, which should funnel the water away from your home.
If the downspout doesn’t extend far enough, then it could instead be funneling water directly into a puddle at the bottom of your house.
Downspouts should extend at least two to three feet from the house. However, the length of the downspout extension you need depends on your house and surrounding property. If your downspout is long enough, but you can still see water collecting at the base of your house, then you may need to install a drainage pipe—a relatively simple and inexpensive DIY project.
Redirect Runoff
If your home sits on the bottom of a slope, water runoff from your yard should be channeled away from your home. If it isn’t, then you probably have problems with standing water near your foundation. Over time, this can cause the ground near your foundation to erode, making it vulnerable.
A French drain could be a simple solution to direct runoff away from your home. At its most basic, a French drain is a simple trench filled with gravel; you could install one with or without a pipe. For an average cost of $1000 to $1500, this solution could save you a lot of money on foundation repairs in the future.
Of course, water damage isn’t limited to rain. Leaking pipes and valves inside your home can cause problems just as severe as rainwater intrusion, but your home’s protection begins with its exterior. Ensure that your roof, exterior walls, gutters, and landscape are working as they should keep your home high and dry.
Learn to detect sneaky leaks inside your home and on your property to prevent water damage and waste.
Plumbing leaks, unfortunately, are pretty common, even in newer houses, and it’s likely that every house will suffer from at least one. What’s more, not all leaks are obvious; in fact, they can be awfully insidious, making it crucial to catch and repair a leak as soon as possible. Every homeowner should know how to find a water leak.
Monitor the Water Bill
Monthly water bills are fairly predictable, so if you receive one that’s unusually high—and you haven’t been using excess water—you may have a leak. The EPA suggests that a family of four will typically use no more than 12,000 gallons per month, except perhaps during the summer if you water a garden or lawn. Even small leaks, such as a faucet with a steady drip, can waste as much as 10,000 gallons of water per year, so keeping an eye on your water bill is a smart, proactive practice.
Watch the Water Meter
If you suspect a leak, monitoring your home’s water meter will give you a definitive answer. The meter is often located beneath a manhole-type cover near the street or (in areas where temperatures don’t dip below freezing) on the side or back of the house, near to where the water supply line enters the house. Follow these steps to monitor the meter:
Turn off all water faucets in your home and make sure the washing machine and dishwasher are not running.
Check the water meter and make a note of the numbers you see. Come back in an hour and check again. If the numbers have changed, there’s a leak somewhere.
To determine if the water leak is in the house or outdoors (only for homes with meters located at the street), turn off the shut-off valve on your home’s main water supply pipe. This is either located in a basement or a utility room where the water pipe enters the home.
Check the water meter, write down the numbers, and wait another hour. When you check again, if the numbers have not changed, the water leak is inside your home. If the numbers have changed, the leak is in the buried water line that runs to the house.
Check for Patches of Greener Grass
Everyone wants a lush lawn, but if an area in your yard is much greener (and grows faster) than the rest of the grass, it could indicate the spot where a buried water line is leaking. If the leak is profuse, you might even see some puddles on the surface of the ground.
Investigate Appliances and Fixtures
If the water meter test indicates a leak inside your home, check the cabinets under the kitchen, laundry, and bathroom sinks to make sure they’re dry. You’ll also want to look for puddles around the bases of tubs, toilets, and showers and beneath the water heater, dishwasher, and clothes washer. If you find any puddles, turn off the water supply valve to that appliance or fixture and call a plumber.
ADVERTISEMENT Stay Alert to Leaking Clues
If a fitting on a supply line under your sink breaks and a spray of water comes shooting out, you know immediately where the trouble is, but some leaks are a lot sneakier! At worst, water may be trickling slowly from pipe fittings within a wall and go unnoticed and it can cause extensive damage. Even if the water meter test indicates that you don’t currently have a leak, one could develop at any point in the future, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye out for:
Wall discoloration. This could indicate water leaking from behind the drywall and soaking through to the front side. Water stains on ceilings and walls are usually yellowish or brownish in color.
Bubbling paint or bulging wallpaper. Both are signs that the wallboard is wet and the paint or wallpaper is no longerattached tightly. In some cases, you may also notice a bulge in the wallboard, which indicates the water damage is more extensive and the wallboard will have to be replaced.
A dripping sound. While some leaks are totally silent—for instance, if water is traveling along a wall stud—other leaks can sometimes be heard, giving you a clue as to the leak’s location.
A musty smell. Over time, a persistent leak provides the perfect humid environment for mold to grow. In some cases, you may notice black splotches on the outside of the wall, but often, mold will grow inside the wall where you can’t see it, so a musty smell is a red flag.
All of the above are signs of a leak, but keep in mind that not all water leaks are plumbing leaks. The water could also be coming from a leak in the roof or around a window. Either way, leaks should be addressed promptly to reduce the risk of water damage.
Basements are no longer ignored spaces where people store things they don’t need.
Basement Flood Prevention: Basements are no longer ignored spaces where people store things they don’t need. Some build an extra room or a guest-bedroom in it; some design a media room or a game room in their basement. Regardless of what they chose to do with it, basements are seeing regular use these days.
Needless to say, flooding is a major concern to people who’re actively using their basements. If you’re storing expensive media equipment, nice furniture and spending so much money in designing the rooms, you want to ensure they don’t get damaged.
The causes of a basement flood
Basements can be flooded due to several problems. There might be a massive leak in some pipeline in your home or someone left the tap open in one bathroom. However, the most common causes of basement floods are listed here:
Basements can flood when surface water during rainfall or storms runs down the foundation walls and into the basement
Sometimes, the ground water comes in contact with soil that’s already soggy. Hydrostatic pressure would demand that water find an outlet and that would be the basement
There are times when the municipal storm drains are overwhelmed and excess water is pushed into residential outline foundation drains, causing some water to leak into the basement
An obstruction in your home’s sewer line or the municipal sewer line can cause sewer water to rise through the sink or floor drains. This would flood the lower levels of your house, like the basement
Ways to prevent a basement flood
There are ways to prevent your basement from flooding to begin with:
Gutters need to be cleaned and maintained regularly. They can get clogged or even damaged without you even noticing. If the gutters are kept clean and in good repair, there would be proper drainage of water during rains
After rainfall or storms, ensure that the gutters aren’t overflowing
Check the downspout for any sort of clogging or damage regularly. If you find a damaged downspout, repair or replace it as soon as possible
Ensure that your pavement is sloped in such a manner that water flows away from the house and not towards it
These and some other precautions can lessen the likelihood of flooding in the basement. There are times when flooding can’t be helped. In such cases, you need to hire a professional like us, SERVPRO of Kendall County to help you out.
The smallest water problem can become an expensive one if it’s not discovered.
Water damage can occur in a number of scenarios, and even the smallest problem can become an expensive one if it’s not discovered in a timely manner. A leaking refrigerator, for instance, could be seeping water into your flooring—and below into your basement—for months before you find the issue.
Plumbing leaks and problems could also go undetected for longer than they should. By the time you find the problem, you could have serious water damage on your hands, including buckled flooring, warped walls, and mold damage.
The average homeowner spends an average of $2,300 to fix or restore water damage in their home. That includes not only bringing in professionals to try and dry up any water or wet materials, but also any carpentry, masonry, or other contracting necessary to repair or rebuild.
That might not seem like a lot of money, but homeowners insurance doesn't always cover water damage —which means you might be stuck with the bill.
What Does Homeowners Insurance Cover?
One of the more critical things to understand about homeowners insurance is what types of water damage a policy will cover. The phrase most often used is “sudden and accidental.” That means if you have a water heater pipe suddenly burst and spray water everywhere, soaking into the wall and flooring, your policy may cover the repairs under what’s called “dwelling coverage.”
Your policy may also have personal property coverage, which means if that water heater pipe bursting also damages your favorite recliner or a stack of books, replacing those items may also be covered.
Before your policy covers anything, you’ll probably need to pay a deductible. It’s smart to know what your deductible is now before anything happens. Some homeowners like to keep an amount of money equal to the deductible amount tucked away in a savings account. Depending on how much the deductible is, you might still end up paying a lot of money out of pocket even if your water damage is covered.
Water damage covered by snow, ice, or sleet is usually covered as well. Too much snow on certain types of roofs can cause caving or leaking; that means you could have damage to your walls too—and that can be a costly repair.
Floodwaters can be mixed with sewage and other contaminants.
It certainly can be, especially if it mixes with sewage and other contaminants. It’s another reason why you should always leave mitigation to the professionals. As we noted earlier in this piece, the IICRC defines flood water in three categories: 1, 2, and 3. Category 1 water is clean water as if it was right out of a faucet. Category 2 water is mostly clean, but likely contains some contaminants. And Category 3 water is highly contaminated water, often containing raw sewage. If you don’t have the necessary PPE to handle hazardous water, you risk becoming very ill. The professionals at SERVPRO of Kendall County know how to properly assess water conditions and proceed accordingly. The contaminant level of the water will also likely influence restoration efforts.
Floods are often unpracticable and unlike a hurricane, leave little to no time to prepare. This list outlines how to safely get your property clean, safe, and dry directly following a flood.
1. Personal Health and Safety - Avoid exposure to harmful toxins that could be in the floodwaters with both respiratory AND contact precautions with the following Personal Protective Equipment:
Contact Precautions- Latex gloves, Rubber Boots, Coveralls, and Eye Protection to avoid any flood waters from getting into your eyes.
Respiratory precautions - N95 is ok in most circumstances but you may want to consider heavier duty respirator during flood clean up.
2. Gross removal - Remove everything that is unsalvageable in the home or property.
Unsalvageable Items - Remove porous contents and building materials like drywall, particleboard, most types of flooring BEFORE you start cleaning.
-Any sort of furniture - Sofas, Mattresses - that's been impacted by floodwaters should be tossed out as it's not worth the effort in cleaning.
Salvageable Items - Non-porous building materials like concrete or steel can be cleaned in place so no need to remove them.
3. Pressure clean - Use a pressure washing gun to clean the areas where the floodwaters touched. For walls and ceilings that were not touched by floodwaters, you'll want to still thoroughly clean by wiping down with disinfectant.
4. Disinfecting- Apply a broad application of antimicrobial disinfectant once everything is clean in order to remove all microbes and toxins that were in the floodwaters.
5. Dry Everything - Before a professional water damage restoration company can access your home to begin the restorative drying process, you'll want to do your best to dry everything to the best of your ability. SERVPRO of Kendall County has the specialized equipment to dry materials efficiently and properly.
6. Mold - Because mold can start to grow in 72 hours following a flood, Continue to clean, clean, clean! Mold is readily aerosolized so it's important to clean everything from top to bottom, left to right to avoid mold growth.
7. Testing - An environmental mold assessment following the cleaning and drying process will ensure that you've eliminated any concerns regarding harmful microbials left in your home. Especially if there are children or immune-compromised living in your home, we recommend professionally testing your home.
Please reach out to the team at SERVPRO of Kendall County to answer any questions you may have and to provide emergency response when and if needed.
BE informed. Know what to do and not to do when presented with water damage.
Water and Flood Damage Restoration: Things to Do
Secure the area
First, ensure that it’s safe to be where the water is. Depending on the extent of the damage, you could be faced with a situation that’s dangerous to be in. Turn off the water supply and power supply, and disconnect appliances or mechanical tools that could conduct electricity or cause additional water to fill the area. Cover any holes in the roof or walls with a tarp so that the elements are kept out. Look for rodents and other pests that may have decided to come in or have been brought with the water. Secure heavy furniture or equipment that could collapse, or – better yet – take it out of the building completely. Immediately decide if it’s a place you can continue to be in until help arrives, being mindful of staff or customers that could get into harm’s way while you wait.
Call your insurance
The next thing you should do is reach out to your insurance company. Even if your damage was caused by flooding, and you don’t have a flood policy, it’s worth investigating. Depending on the cause of the water, there may be a way for a policy to cover it, especially if it’s the fault of someone else who has insurance coverage.
Remove valuables
Some things may have already been damaged beyond repair, but if you can move expensive items from the building, do so. Special equipment, computers and, and financial documents should be relocated off-site, if possible. Even if they can be put up above the waterline, natural disasters and building damage can attract criminals. You don’t want people taking advantage of the weakened structure of your office to steal from you.
Put up the things you can
Equipment and furniture that hasn’t already been damaged should be moved to the highest level in your building or set on top of other furniture. Remember that the entire room will be humid and damp, even if items are above the waterline. Just being in a flooded building can cause them to grow mold or become musty, so do this only if you can’t take them out of the structure completely.
Water and Flood Damage Restoration: Things to Avoid
Don’t remediate on your own
The biggest thing to remember when dealing with water damage, whether it came from a storm or an exploded toilet, is that you can’t handle much of the process by yourself. Even if you weren’t so already overwhelmed with losing your home or office to water, you don’t likely have the tools and industry-accepted resources to put the area back to a healthy, stable condition. In addition to water pumps, fans, and dehumidifiers, there may be materials that need to be demoed and reinstalled. The entire process of water damage remediation is a long one, and every step must be handled with care to ensure it doesn’t come back as a new problem. Home and office owners frequently try to handle water problems on their own, but the truth is that it can be difficult to know the extent of the damage just by looking at it.
Also, if it’s your personal business, you’re likely to be emotional and feel sentimental about the items damaged. You may not be able to reasonably assess if things need to be replaced. Everything from the carpet to the paint has a history; having a third-party expert team come in and give it to you straight is the best possible outcome. They can let you know just what can remain, and what has to go. In the end, removing everything that is beyond repair is best to avoid further health effects from mold or a collapsing structure.
Delay getting help
As you’ve read above, the consequences of trying to handle too much of the restoration process can have expensive outcomes. Doing things wrong is costly! Another way to add to the total bill for fixing the water problem is by waiting too long. If you try a “wait and see” approach, your building may be silently crumbling underneath the moisture, or mold may be starting to take hold. If you’re convinced it’s a job for the professionals, don’t wait a minute. As soon as you see that it’s going to be a problem, make the call.
Pipe breaks can be a messy situation. Some prevention can be done to avoid such a mess.
Busted pipes are a problem that can turn living in your home into a nightmare. The water damages it can potentially cause range from weakened walls or foundations to thriving mold and mildew. Furthermore, the accumulation of water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other unsafe organisms.
It’s important to move quickly and determine the extent of damage upon discovery of the problem. It would also help significantly if you were to report it immediately to us. We understand that this problem isn’t minor, so we provide a line of services that will alleviate the damage and restore the affected area. As part of the help we provide, here’s a rundown on the origins of the issue.
Using Low-Quality Pipes
Water pipes should have the capacity to endure whatever environment they’re put in and withstand the pressure of water that will pass through, but there are poorly designed ones, which homeowners sometimes choose out of “practicality”. More practical homeowners shouldn’t just go for simple PVC and stainless steel pipes, as they spell expensive problems, especially if you’re not the kind of homeowner who checks things out on a regular basis.
Pressure Caused by Clogging
When an object gets trapped in one section of the piping system, it will obstruct the flow of water and put an enormous amount of pressure on the pipe. When the buildup of pressure persists, the pipes will start expanding and will eventually burst. Bursts can happen at any moment, especially if you don’t check your sewer line or your home’s entire water system regularly.
Drop-in Temperature
Burst pipes are a common problem when temperatures drop. When the water reaches its freezing point, it expands until it breaks out of the pipe. Moreover, the ice can cause a blockage, and the continued conversion of water into ice and the arriving flow of water can increase pressure, which will eventually lead to bursting.
Busted pipes are a problem that you need to address as soon as you discover them.
There are many causes for water damage to your home.
Water damage is the most fierce type of interior damage to your home. This statistic comes from many insurance companies and is the most frequent cause for water damage claims to be filed. Without immediate attention, water damage caused by flooding, and other conditions, can cause all kinds of problems to the structure of your home and your health. It seeps into the carpets, the walls, the flooring, and the frame of your home, infecting your home with mold and other symptoms that make your home nearly unliveable. Your home can be restored after a water damage event, but only if you hire the right water damage restoration company right away.
There are many causes for water damage to your home. Here are a few examples:
Freezing temperatures cause pipes to freeze, when they thaw, the pipes burst
Outdoor pools that leak and flood your yard, the water then moves to the underside of your home
Heavy rains can flood your basement and the main level of your home
Severe winds can damage your roof, which keeps the roof from keeping water out
Water heaters can leak, which will overflow into other parts of your home
Washing machines break and spew water all over
Dishwashers break down
Toilets overflow, which is a whole other issue in itself
Water from putting out a fire; this will send water everywhere in your home
All of these causes, and more, will cause damage to the contents of your home, including the flooring, the walls, your furniture, clothing, and personal belongings. It can cause problems with the wiring in your home. Flash floods cause rivers and lakes to overflow and if your home is near the banks, you could face a giant pool of water in your home.
Effective Methods of Dealing with Residential Water Damage
Water damage can cause angst to homeowners as they have to spend a lot of money to repair the problems and also deal with safety and health issues. Many people panic when they see a burst pipe or a leaking drain gate. The best action to take at these times is to call SERVPRO of Kendall County to take care of the problem right from the source.
Here are a few ways to ensure that your home is safe and not excessively damaged when such situations occur:
Shut off the water line from the mains when you notice a water heater not working or if a pool of water suddenly collects in the kitchen or bathroom.
If there is a flood, make sure to cut off the gas and electricity power
Do not keep electrical appliances and gadgets in the basement
Do not stand in water without shutting off the main electricity
Call SERVPRO of Kendall County and let them know your immediate problems
Regular inspection is necessary when you have to take care of your home. Water can seep in through the floor, from the attic, and generally comes in from the flashing where the roof and wall meet. If you notice any curled shingles or cracked ones, make sure to take prompt remedial action.
When you are out in the garden, check the gutters and remove all leaves and residue to ensure that it does not overflow. You can prevent leaves from clogging your gutters by installing a screen to trap the leaves.
Check the drains in your bathrooms to see if they are clogged. Grease and dirt generally collect, and the best way to wash it away is to pour hot water down the drain. Another good tip is to mix half a cup of vinegar with an equal amount of baking soda and pour it down the drain. Use boiling hot water to rinse the drain after a few minutes.
SERVPRO of Kendall County will be able to provide complete service that includes not only floors and carpets but also upholstery air vent and drywall cleaning. They should take care of restoring the air quality and restore the wood floors, hardwood floors and guide you through the process to get your insurance claims honored.
SERVPRO of Kendall County uses advanced technology for water restoration and cleanup. They offer reasonable rates to homeowners when they sign a contract with them for inspection and restoration.
SERVPRO of Kendall County is specialized in water damage and remediation especially when mold is detected.
Roof Damage? Roof tarps are a quick way to stop water damage before it gets worse.
Emergency roof tarps help homeowners and property owners minimize the spread of damage after a bit of damage to your roof. To give you an idea, many roof leaks are negligible at first. There may be a small hole in the roof, but many homeowners don’t regularly check the area to notice, and if water damage is small and kept to an obscure area, like the attic, it may go unnoticed.
However, no leak stays small. In time, the damage will grow, and you will have a larger leak. This can mean major water damage, higher utility costs to counteract the air loss in the leak, as well as potential structural risk. The main purpose of an emergency roof tarp is to keep a roof leak in that initial stage until someone can come out to properly fix it.
This is accomplished through a few different phases that take place throughout the emergency roof tarp prep/installation process.
Preparing for the tarp includes clearing out any debris and appraising the scale of the damage.
Plywood is applied to the damaged area before the tarp goes on, serving as a second line of defense in case the tarp fails.
Finally, the tarp is placed on top of the plywood, then secured with lumber.
Remember, the goal of an emergency roof tarp is not to “fix” a roof leak. It’s not a substitute for repair. Your home is still going to have some losses in terms of water resistance and energy efficiency until the roof is fixed. What the tarp does is slow down the spread of any potential leaks or damage until a professional can come and fix the roof properly.
The general life of a roof tarp is a few months. However, some longer-lasting tarps can go as long as a year or two. Make sure to ask what type you are getting when having your tarp installed.
3 Things You Need To Know About Cleaning Up Water Damage In Oswego, IL
When it comes to water damage clean up in your home in Oswego, Il, there are three main things you need to know:
Water damage needs to be cleaned up as soon as possible
If water is allowed to sit, the damage will compound and result in more damage. The only way to mitigate damage is to get the water cleaned up as quickly as possible. Time is of the essence when it comes to water damage for a few reasons. Water damage can quickly facilitate mold growth. In fact, mold will begin growing in as little as 24 hours after the water has become available. Once mold spores begin to spread, mold growth can quickly become a huge problem. As long as the water is present, mold will continue to grow. Along with mold growth, damage to materials only worsens the longer they are exposed to water. Furniture, carpets, padding, insulation, drywall, baseboards, woodwork, and other belongings will absorb what water they can and, once fully saturated, will begin to break down and deteriorate. Wood floors will warp, walls will begin to peel and bow, ceilings will crack and sag, metal furnishings will rust, carpet padding will be soiled, and not only will cleanup be harder but so will structural repair and rebuild. Structural damage becomes more and more severe the longer water damage is present, leading to extensive cleanup and more likely than not structural replacement to repair the damage. The best way to protect your home from any further water damage is to begin cleanup right away.
Adequate drying requires the aid of commercial-grade equipment
Without the use of professional equipment, water will not be adequately or thoroughly dried. Water seeps and soaks into most of the materials in our home (i.e. wood, drywall, textiles, and fabrics), where it can remain trapped without our even knowing it is still there. When water is not dried thoroughly with the aide of commercial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers, it will remain hidden inside these materials, under floorboards and behind walls, where it can facilitate mold growth and lead to further damage. Even if it appears that all the water has been dried, without the proper equipment hidden moisture will remain trapped inside your home. As long as moisture is present, mold will be an issue. To ensure that all the water, especially what you cannot see, is completely dried, you need the right equipment.
The best water damage cleanup results cannot be achieved on your own
The only way to ensure that you and your home are given the best care possible, with the right equipment and in a timely manner, is to call the professionals. You should not try to clean up water damage on your own. First, it will take way too much of your time and second, it will yield sub-optimal results that will probably end up costing you more in the long haul. Instead, call SERVPRO of Kendall County at the first sign of water damage. We are available to respond 24/7 to ensure a timely cleanup and mitigate further damage. Our team is trained and certified and utilizes top of the line equipment to provide thorough water damage clean up.
How To Clean The Gutters on Your House to prevent potential water damage
Cleaning your gutters twice a year will help prevent water damage.
Gutters — they're your house's primary precipitation protection, as long as they're clear and working properly. If they're not, your house could suffer from mold growth, damp basements, a leaky roof, even interior and foundation damage over time. The longer you let your gutters go unchecked, the more expensive repairs you'll be looking at down the line.
In order to stave off this damage, it's a good rule of thumb to clean your gutters twice a year in the spring and fall. However, if you live near pine trees, you'll probably want to up that amount to four, because pine needles are infamous gutter cloggers.
It's relatively easy to do the cleaning yourself as long as you have the right tools and safety in mind.
Before you set out to clean your gutters, make sure you have all the tools you'll need to do it safely and properly.
A good extendable ladder. Make sure it has standoff stabilizers or ladder horns, as they'll help keep your ladder from damaging your gutters by leaning on them.
Heavy-duty gloves, preferably ones with gripping on the fingers and palms. It's also a good idea to wear latex gloves under your work gloves to keep your hands from getting wet.
A large tarp for your lawn. It's a great place to throw the gunk you find in your gutters. There's often much more than a garbage bag can hold, so this will allow you to get the job done in one fell swoop rather than having to empty the garbage bag every few feet.
Let SERVPRO of Kendall County walk you through your water damage situation.
After the inspection, estimate and water cleanup solution is determined, our highly trained technicians begin the process of water removal, followed by water damage mitigation and water damage restoration to return your property to preloss condition.
Water Removal: The water damage restoration process starts with water removal: flood water removal • sewage water removal • appliance water removal. Our state-of-the-art truck mounted equipment removes large amounts of flood water quickly by hundreds of thousands of gallons.
Water Damage Mitigation: After water removal, the water damage mitigation method needed will be determined, depending on the extent of water damage and the class of water damage. We then use industrial dehumidifiers, high-powered fans and thermal imaging to quickly dry and restore your structure.
Water Damage Restoration: In the final step to restore your home or business to its pre-water damaged condition,
SERVPRO of Kendall County uses IICRC S500 standards to repair, rebuild, and restore your property.
SERVPRO of Kendall County will bill yourinsurance provider directly for water damage restoration services we provide. Most homeowner insurance policies will cover the cost of water damage removal services and water damage restoration.
Are You Covered? Understanding your Homeowners Policy when it comes to Water Damage
Do You know your insurance policy when it comes to water damage?
Homeowners Insurance
A traditional homeowner's policy specifically excludes water damage, however, there are instances in which water damage may be covered with added endorsements.
Example 1: Damage caused by water or sewage that backs up through sewers or drains. With a specific endorsement, coverage can be applied, though it is limited.
Example 2: Damage caused by water that overflows from a sump pump system. If you have a sump pump and drain tile around the foundation of your home, you may have coverage if you have this added endorsement.
Example 3: Damage caused by water seeping through my foundation, windows, walls, etc. There is no available coverage for water seepage from outside surface water caused by rain, snowmelt, flood, etc.
In most cases, you will find that water damage is only covered if the damage is sudden and accidental. For Instance: If a water pipe breaks in your home, there may be coverage from the resulting damage caused by water because it is a sudden & accidental loss. However, gradual damage is usually not covered.
Gradual damage water damage is not usually covered, so although your policy might have water damage coverages, if the reason for the damage is not sudden and accidental, then you may be denied in a claim.
In addition, you need to consult your policy deductible. Most water damage claims are small dollar amount claims, that may not be covered anyway. For instance, your deductible maybe $1,500, but even if you hire a water damage restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Kendall County you may only have $1,100 in damage.
Water damaged basement caused by sump pump failure.
Facing water damage? Let the professionals at SERVPRO of Kendall County take care of it. We will inspect your home or business, our trained technicians will examine each area to ensure we find every last drop of water. Prompt removal of all standing water with a water pump is critical to reduce or eliminate structural damage, as well as to prevent further damage and mold.
After we remove all standing water, we begin the drying process of the exterior and interiors walls in your home and all its valuables to thoroughly complete your water repair. We also prevent secondary moisture that can build up to damage your belongings. It’s crucial to make sure no mold or mildew can grow due to this water damage.
We ensure any water damage repair job big or small is done right by using only top quality industry-standard equipment and employing the most highly trained certified technicians. Water removal and immediate drying are critical to the preservation and safety of your home.
Experienced in water repair projects of any size, we provide expert water restoration services for single-family homes, apartment complexes, and townhomes, as well as retail and commercial properties. From water damaged ceiling repairs to fixing drywall that has been water damaged, we got it covered. "Like it never even happened."
Do you have the coverage necessary to get yourself back "Like it never even happened"? If it is a sump pump/ sewage backup the limited coverage you have may only be enough to get the house dry, but you may not have enough to put flooring and drywall back. Flooding remains the costliest natural hazard disaster in the United States. But did you know that flood losses are not typically covered under renter and homeowner insurance policies? Additionally, backup coverage in homes is typically limited. Also, how the water entered the house plays a big role in whether you have coverage and whether you have limited coverage or full coverage. Contact your agent and discuss your coverage BEFORE the event occurs, decide on whether the coverage you have is enough in case the worst does happen. Believe us, you WILL be very happy you did!
Unfortunately this situation happens more often than it should. A small water leak is found. The plumber is called, and the water leak is fixed water is wiped up with some towels. But the wet material is totally ignored! Everyone thinks they "got lucky", but did they? Mold will not start that day or even the next, but every day building materials are left wet, the possibility for mold to grow increases. Maybe you will smell a small musty smell that slowly goes away. However, chances are if this area gets wet in the future, even years in the future, mold will start growing again, and you will not know why.
Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path. Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. Drywall begins to swell and break down. Metal surfaces begin to tarnish. A musty odor appears. Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Kendall County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Kendall County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week-including all holidays.
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.
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (630) 554-2280
Sewer Damageand Drain Back Upcan cause serious damage to Oswego area homes. They also present health risks and should only be cleaned by certified water damage professionals. SERVPRO of Kendall County technicians are trained to deal with sewer damage issues.
Some examples include, but are not limited to: sewage, toilet backflows that originate from beyond the toilet trap regardless of visible content or color.
Below are some basic procedures for clean up
Identify ALL safety issues
Determine source or Sewer back up and get problem fixed as quickly as possible
Extract materials and/or remove all standing water
Apply EPA registered disinfectant
Remove and discard all contaminated porous and semi-porous structural materials included carpet and pad
Measure and document all moisture levels in affected areas.
Install barriers to contain damaged areas
Install drying equipment
Monitor job daily.
Once completely dry. Clean all areas prior to rebuild.
When your Oswego home or business has a sewer back up, rely on the professionals at SERVPRO of Kendall County. For a free estimate call 630-554-2280
Benefits of Checking an Outdoor Faucet for Water Leaks in Spring.
Besides fires and tornadoes, water leaks cause the worst damage to the home. With any kind of water leak or damage, it’s essential to have it checked and dealt with immediately by your local plumber.
The longer that water is allowed to leak and damage the home the more a Oswego area homeowner can expect to pay in costs of repairing and replacing items. Fixing a leak immediately drastically reduces the amount it will cost to fix it down the road.
Pipe Bursts
Detecting a leak in the springtime is a blessing. Discovering a leak in the wintertime or at any other time of the year when pipes freeze is disastrous. Water expands when it is frozen. If it freezes in a pipe and does not have room to expand, it will make its own room. This results in massive pipe bursts.
Once water thaws and begins to move again, it can flood the yard, or it can flood a part of the home, possibly causing foundation issues or even mold formation. Flooded basements are a common phenomenon. Flooded basements happen, in part, because sump pumps go out, but they also occur from water seeping in from outdoors. It’s essential to stop a water leak before it gets worse.
The Cost of Water
Water has a price, and it’s not cheap paying for a leak. It’s essential to stop a leak before it gets worse. A small leak can end up turning into hundreds or thousands of gallons of wasted water. If a water bill doesn’t seem to be adding up, a small leak may be present somewhere in the home.
Beyond the cost of water, it’s a resource that cannot be replenished quickly. It’s important to save water for future use.
Water Damage
Water damage needs to be avoided at all costs. Most people don’t take water damage seriously enough because they don’t realize the detrimental effects water damage can have on the home and the occupants of the home.
Besides having to replace electronic and other items, such as furniture, water can and will damage walls, flooring, sub-flooring and anything else it comes into contact with.
It’s not enough to dry areas that have water damage because these items become structurally compromised to the extent that they’re no longer safe to have in the home. SERVPRO of Kendall County offers special water mitigation and techniques to prevent those measures from happening.
Mold Growth
One of the worst things that can occur to a home from water damage is mold growth. Mold is extremely difficult to get rid of when it is inside porous surfaces. Water damage causes structural damage, which leads to mold growth.
Leaks invariably lead to mold growth because mold spores are found readily around the home and in the home. Mold growth cannot be cleared up with at-home methods of removal. Professional assistance is needed with mold removal.
Already have a leaky pipe that caused damaged walls or flooring? Call SERVPRO of Kendall County 630-554-2280
SERVPRO of Kendall County is the answer to your Ice Dam problems
During the winter heating systems circulate warm air throughout your home. Water entry in your home occurs when heated air meets the ice and snow along the part of a roof that meets or overhangs the walls of a building or skylight windows. Inadequate insulation and the lack of a complete seal between the edges of the framing and the roof decking allow air to rise and leak out of the house. Then the ice and snow collecting in the gutter melts and may leak into the house. Our professionals are familiar with this phenomenon and have the skills and equipment to solve the water damage issues it causes.
The SERVPRO of Kendall County crew views the exterior of your home but knows that water does not always appear where expected. We inspect the attic or upper floor living areas for signs of water damage. This inspection can include visual review, looking for bubbling pain, bulging ceiling tiles, and staining on walls. We also use state-of-the-art moisture meters, and infrared scanners as water can collect between studs, soak insulation, and pool on ceilings and subflooring. Temperature differential often gives away lurking water.
Because water does tend to run down, we also travel to other levels of the home to look for more damage. It is not uncommon for water to move a story or more down and soak into woodwork around windows, drywall, baseboards, or hardwood flooring. The SERVPRO crew assigned to your job has been trained in strategies to resolve all of these water damage scenarios. This team has the equipment available to remove the water and dry out the building structure and fixtures.
SERVPRO of Kendall County extracts any standing water and then determines how to reach water behind baseboards or in walls. Special equipment comes into play to reduce the moisture. We use innovations like the inject dry system, where warm dry air is introduced via a series of tubes inserted in holes drilled into the base of a wall preventing a wall cavity of lingering water. Floor mats pull water from hardwood, and dehumidifiers and air movers create a balance to reduce both humidity and residual moisture in building materials.
SERVPRO of Kendall County
630-554-2280
SERVPRO Can Quickly Dry Out Your Water Damaged Home to Prevent Further Damage from happening.
SERVPRO of Kendall County draws out moisture under carpets and replaces carpet pads to reduce the risk of delamination and mold from forming.
The current storm season in Oswego area has hit our area with massive amounts of rainwater. Despite the millions of gallons of water that have fallen out of the sky, it is the hundreds of gallons from failed appliances leaky pipes and failed sump pumps that cause the majority of damage to homes.
Water damage to Oswego homes primarily affects the carpets and floors. SERVPRO technicians train to remove any standing water, draw it out of surfaces, and take quick drying action to prevent secondary damage.
We start with removing water. Depending on the depth, we begin with commercial grade pumps to draw out the majority of it and then switch to water extraction wands. These two devices help us to not only get the water out but to draw moisture out of carpets and floorboards carefully.
Drawing out moisture helps lower the risk of delamination in carpets. It happens when the water softens the adhesive in the carpet which causes the layers to separate. That allows bubbles to form between the layers and carpet fibers to loosen and pull away when vacuumed. The risk of delamination is why we remove the pad from underneath every carpet. It is a source of water that soaks every inch of a carpet it touches.
Floorboards absorb standing water, and even pressure treated wood can start to twist and buckle after a single day under just an inch of it. The extraction wands allow SERVPRO restoration specialists to pull water from between the individual floorboards, reducing that risk of damage. Quickly removing the water also helps reduce the chance of mold infestation in floors, carpets and drywall.
To speed along the drying process, we use air movers to force warm, dry air over and under the carpets and floors. Our specialists can adjust both the temperature and speed of the airflow to dry out both types of flooring without splintering the wood or heating carpet adhesive too quickly and forming air pockets. Mold spores cannot expand and grow without a source of moisture, so this technique will help prevent any further damage.
If you have a leaking refrigerator, out dated sump pump, or a split water line leading to your clothes washer, SERVPRO of Kendall County is here to help you restore your home to its original, dry condition.
Call us at 630-554-2280 today to schedule a visit.
With all the rain and snow, it’s very important to notice the signs of water damage and know what precautions to take to prevent it. Properties today are well built and insulated, however, they also have the unfortunate ability to trap excess moisture and condensation inside. Here are some tips for identifying problems before there is damage:
Signs to Recognize
Rust stains on the ceiling that appear around light fixtures.
Mildew along ceilings, walls and baseboard edges.
Condensation buildup along Windows and cold surfaces.
Musty odors.
Growth of mold and mildew in areas around your home.
Preventive Precautions
Keep proper circulation and ventilation throughout your home to avoid the buildup of condensation. Maintaining fixtures such as faucets and toilets is a great way to prevent leakage and dripping. To control humidity in your home, invest in a portable dehumidifier and keep it in areas such as the basement where it may be very damp. Storm windows are a great investment, as well, to keep condensation from building up on windows.
Other Signs
Listen up for any hissing sounds because this could possibly mean a leak in the water line. Check periodically around the water heater, under sinks, and behind clothes washers for signs of leaking. These places are usually hard-to-reach and are often forgotten about. The filter and ice maker lines to your refrigerator should also be monitored.
Discolored floor coverings usually indicate a sign of a leak. Loose or damaged plumbing fixtures are usually the causes of water stains and wetness. The wax ring at the base of the toilet may deteriorate because of moisture, but this can be easily replaced.
If you find any of these signs in your home, don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Kendall County. We will eliminate any water damage within your home and make it look, "Like it never even happened.” For more information about cleaning up water damage in your Yorkville home, please reach out to our office 630-554-2280
SERVPRO of Kendall County 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 - 630-554-2280
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 Kendall County 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 Kendall County
SERVPRO of Kendall County 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.
24/7 Emergency Service
Water damage is not always easy to find, especially in the bathroom.
