DIY water restoration in my home?

11/14/2024 (Permalink)

When water damage hits your home, give the professionals a call at the first sight of water damage.

If you have experienced a flood, pipe burst, or other water damage in your home, you may be wondering if it is safe to DIY the restoration process. The answer depends on several factors. If the area is small and manageable, then you may be able to take care of it yourself. However, if there is extensive damage or mold present, then hiring a professional company would be safer for your home and belongings.

Extent of the damage.

The answer depends on the extent of the damage. If you have a small area of water damage, you may be able to do it yourself. If your home has been flooded by a broken pipe or burst water main, hire professionals with experience in this field.

If you want to do the work yourself, make sure that you are properly trained and have all necessary equipment available before starting any DIY repairs.

Safe for you to DIY.

Before you start any water damage restoration work, a professional can inspect the damage and determine if it is safe for you to do it yourself. They will also assess whether or not it's safe for you to live in your home while they are working on the project.

Professional Equipment.

If you want to do the job yourself, it's important to realize that professionals have the right equipment for the job. Professional dehumidifiers are designed to remove moisture from the air as well as any mold or mildew that may be present. They also come with special features that help them work efficiently in tight spaces and small rooms, something your average home dehumidifier won't be able to do easily.

Another benefit of hiring a professional restoration company is for their training in working around people and pets safely. These companies know how not only how best protect people, but also keep pets out of harm's way during cleanup work.

Remove odors.

While you may be tempted to try removing odors yourself, this is not something that should be done without professional expertise. Odor removal is a specialized skill and there are many things that can go wrong if you attempt it yourself.

They use specialized equipment and techniques like fogging or misting systems which allow them to cover large areas quickly without creating any messes on floors or furniture surfaces where people walk around all day long without shoes on their feet like we do at work each day during lunchtime hours."

DIY water restoration in your home.

You may be able to DIY water restoration in your home, but check with professionals first to make sure that it is safe to do so. If you do decide to go forward with the project yourself, there are several things that you need to consider before taking on this task. Are there any risks involved? Do I have the right equipment and training? Is my insurance up-to-date?

If you think you can DIY water restoration in your home, check with the professionals first. They will be able to tell you if it is safe for you to do so and help guide you through the process. Give SERVPRO of South Tulsa County a call today for your water restoration emergency.

Reasons for a Leaky Toilet and How to Fix It

7/9/2024 (Permalink)

Once you know what’s happening to your leaking toilet, you can act quickly before the leak gets bigger.

A leaking toilet can become a serious issue in your home. With constant plumbing issues such as this, you might have to deal with a lot of water damage. To help you prevent any more problems, here are a few common reasons why your toilet might be leaking.

Common Ways a Toilet Can Leak

• Supply lines direct the water from the toilet into the pipes. Both the joints of this line and the rubber lining can wear out or rupture, which can lead to water escaping and ultimately damaging the area around the toilet.

• Flappers can also become damaged and can lead to a large loss of water in the tank. Sometimes the flush handle gets stuck and allows the toilet tank to continually fill with water. This can lead to overflow and expensive water bills.

• The float is the small ball that floats in the toilet tank. If the float is damaged or cracked, this can mess up the entire flushing process.

How To Identify a Leak

If you notice a bathroom leak but you aren’t sure where the leak is coming from, there is an easy way to identify where the water is escaping. When dealing with a leaking toilet, the tank and bowl are the only two places that water can leak from. Choose one of these locations to pour in a small amount of food coloring.

Wait about an hour before inspecting the surrounding area for the colored water. If the water shows no signs of your food coloring experiment, try the other location of the toilet and test once more. From here, you can make several repairs to prevent any more leaking. You can also call a professional in Tulsa, OK, to help you out.

Once you know what’s happening to your leaking toilet, you can act quickly before the leak gets bigger. Some people choose to repair it by themselves, or they call plumbers. Either way, be sure to prevent any water damage to your home.

SERVPRO® of South Tulsa County answers the Phone Ready to Help

4/17/2024 (Permalink)

A water line break caused this office in Tulsa to flood. Air movers and dehumidifers are removing moisture from the affected flooring and cabinets

SERVPRO of South Tulsa County is available 24 hours a day for commercial or residential water emergencies.  Immediate action is crucial when you are dealing with water damage. A delay of only a few hours greatly increases the severity of the water damage.

Call SERVPRO of South Tulsa County Today (918) 437-2095

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

What You Can 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 South Tulsa County

SERVPRO of South Tulsa 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 commercial or residential property.

SERVPRO of South Tulsa County should be your first choice for any residential or commercial water damage.  Our team of professionals is trained to assess the damage, identify potential threats, and respond quickly to restore your property to preloss condition.  SERVPRO of South Tulsa County is available 24/7 by calling 918-437-2095.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

2/13/2024 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes in Oklahoma City

Preventing Frozen Pipes

You live in Oklahoma City where the temperature drops well below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, you know that your water pipes may freeze. Unfreezing them is a chore that requires patience, so it's better if they don't freeze in the first place, which requires diligence and preparation.

In Oklahoma City, temperatures can drop to the teens or low 20s just about any time between November and March. Usually, there is plenty of warning on the local Edmond news. Follow these tips to reduce the likelihood of frozen pipes and the resulting water damage.

• When you hear those warnings, make sure you open the faucets in your Edmond house, and let them drip throughout the dangerous weather. That will keep them from freezing and causing a lot of water damage. However, before you get to that point, prepare your pipes. Wrap any exposed areas in fiberglass insulation or foam rubber.
  
  
• If you have exposed piping in your crawl space or attic, insulate it to ward off the extreme cold.
  
  
• Open all your cabinet doors so that warm air can circulate around the pipes.
  
  
• You can also install powered heat tape, which requires little maintenance and provides maximum protection. It costs pennies per day to keep your Edmond pipes safe an prevent water damage.
  
  
• If you have a conglomeration of pipes in one area, put a high-wattage lamp near them to keep them warm.
  
  
• Stop all drafts from getting to the pipes by caulking the nearby windows and any openings in the foundation.
  
  
• Slow and steady wins the race. A professional plumber knows how to slowly thaw your pipes safely, so they won't suffer more water damage.

If your pipes do freeze, remain calm. Don't try to thaw them in 30 minutes. If you overheat your frozen pipes, you could cause internal steam that will burst your pipes, and then you'll have frozen pipes and a big mess of water damage to repair and clean. A hair dryer set on low will do the job quite nicely if you have the patience to let it work.

If you're unlucky enough to have your pipes burst and cause water damage, you should contact SERVPRO of South Tulsa County immediately to fix your pipes and remove any trace of the problem. We're standing by to perform emergency service if you need us. Call (918) 437-2095 if you need help 24/7/365.

An unexpected cold snap can snarl your pipes. Be prepared against any such event. Thoroughly insulate your Oklahoma City home, and pay attention to the weather reports. A measure of prevention will eliminate any need for a cure. But if your pipes do burst, we're ready to fix the water damage and make sure it does not recur.

How To Deal With Kitchen Leaks

11/3/2023 (Permalink)

Prevent any dishwasher mishaps, keep the kitchen sink unclogged.

Water is used every day in your Bixby, OK, home, but it can be nerve-wracking when the water leaks. Any unwanted flooding may lead to ruined appliances, water damage, and mold. To prevent this from happening, learn about two common kitchen leaks and what you can do to fix them.

1. The Kitchen Sink

Plumbing fixtures don’t last forever. Sometimes the pipes get old or they malfunction. If you detect a puddle of water underneath the sink, act quickly. Remove all the items in the exposed cabinet and wipe up the water with a towel. Don’t forget to dry the underside of the sink.

Once you have soaked up all the water, leave the cabinet doors open to dry. Leave a towel and test for an actual leak by turning on the faucet and running the garbage disposal. If the sink continues to leak, call a professional.

2. The Dishwasher

Dishwashers can leak and lead to serious flooding. This is a problem most people want to avoid, especially because the water can seep into the floor and cause water damage problems below. To prevent any dishwasher mishaps, keep the kitchen sink unclogged. If kitchen repair is needed, it’s best to dry out the area and call a professional.

The Solution

There are a few common ways to discover water problems in the home. If you are concerned about kitchen leaks or water damage in your home, look out for the following signs:

• Dripping water
• Stained ceilings or floors
• Swollen or wet walls
• Mold

If you discover any these, contact a professional for help. Water damage should be taken care of quickly to avoid further problems.

Keep an eye out for leaks and potential issues that can lead to flooding. Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements are often the most vulnerable to leaks. By being aware and acting quickly, you can prevent unwanted water in home appliances and surrounding areas.

Ceiling Fixture Leaks: 3 Quick Mitigation Solutions

7/7/2023 (Permalink)

Use these 3 solutions to help make your process smoother.

Dealing with leaks in your Tulsa, OK home may be something you have dealt with in the past. However, it can be startling when they come from your ceiling's light fixtures. These leaks can cause flooding and damage your electrical system, so acting quickly to stop the leak when you notice water in a light fixture can prevent costly problems later.

1. Shut Off the Water

Shutting off the water to your home can prevent pooling and flooding, especially if the leak is up in your attic. This can also slow or stop ceiling damage caused by a broken pipe. Once you shut off the water, it is wise to avoid your attic space for a bit, even if you know that is where the leak originated, because it may not be safe to enter.

2. Turn Off the Electricity to Your Upper Floors

Water in a light shade can pose a severe electrical shock hazard, so turning off the electricity to your upper floors can reduce the risk of injury or fire. Be cautious operating your fuse box, and wear rubber gloves for additional protection. Have family members move to the main floor of your home to ensure their safety before you cut the power.

3. Call for Flood Cleanup Services

Having a flood cleanup and restoration company come to drain pooling water from your home and assess the damage can help you begin the repair process. These professionals can also advise you about ceiling damage and whether you will need to replace any sections stained or weakened by the leak. Once flood technicians clean up and ensure that the attic is safe to enter, you can go up and inspect the damage to report it to your insurance agent.

Finding water in a light fixture or dripping from your Tulsa, OK home's ceiling can be a stressful experience. Knowing which actions might prevent serious water damage and keep your family safe might help you take action with confidence if a leak should occur. Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on water damage. 

Safety After a Flood

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

The risk of electrocution is “very high” after a flood, which is why it’s important to avoid touching things like outlets and exposed.

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety first:

• Is it safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

What To Do After Flooding

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

DIY water restoration in my home?

2/15/2023 (Permalink)

When water damage hits your home, give the professionals a call at the first sight of water damage.

If you have experienced a flood, pipe burst, or other water damage in your home, you may be wondering if it is safe to DIY the restoration process. The answer depends on several factors. If the area is small and manageable, then you may be able to take care of it yourself. However, if there is extensive damage or mold present, then hiring a professional company would be safer for your home and belongings.

Extent of the damage.

The answer depends on the extent of the damage. If you have a small area of water damage, you may be able to do it yourself. If your home has been flooded by a broken pipe or burst water main, hire professionals with experience in this field.

If you want to do the work yourself, make sure that you are properly trained and have all necessary equipment available before starting any DIY repairs.

Safe for you to DIY.

Before you start any water damage restoration work, a professional can inspect the damage and determine if it is safe for you to do it yourself. They will also assess whether or not it's safe for you to live in your home while they are working on the project.

Professional Equipment.

If you want to do the job yourself, it's important to realize that professionals have the right equipment for the job. Professional dehumidifiers are designed to remove moisture from the air as well as any mold or mildew that may be present. They also come with special features that help them work efficiently in tight spaces and small rooms, something your average home dehumidifier won't be able to do easily.

Another benefit of hiring a professional restoration company is for their training in working around people and pets safely. These companies know how not only how best protect people, but also keep pets out of harm's way during cleanup work.

Remove odors.

While you may be tempted to try removing odors yourself, this is not something that should be done without professional expertise. Odor removal is a specialized skill and there are many things that can go wrong if you attempt it yourself.

They use specialized equipment and techniques like fogging or misting systems which allow them to cover large areas quickly without creating any messes on floors or furniture surfaces where people walk around all day long without shoes on their feet like we do at work each day during lunchtime hours."

DIY water restoration in your home.

You may be able to DIY water restoration in your home, but check with professionals first to make sure that it is safe to do so. If you do decide to go forward with the project yourself, there are several things that you need to consider before taking on this task. Are there any risks involved? Do I have the right equipment and training? Is my insurance up-to-date?

If you think you can DIY water restoration in your home, check with the professionals first. They will be able to tell you if it is safe for you to do so and help guide you through the process. Give SERVPRO of South Tulsa County a call today for your water restoration emergency.

How to File a Water Damage Claim

11/5/2022 (Permalink)

Keep your insurance policy up to date, and know what it covers.

How to Make a Claim for Water Damage

If your home in Tulsa,OK was recently damaged by water, you may be wondering if you have coverage for the repairs. In most cases, insurance will cover the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property. The key is to review your policy and call your agent as soon as possible in order to file a claim. Here are some tips on how to get started:

If you think your insurance will cover the damage, take pictures of all affected areas.

Before you file a claim, make sure the damage is covered by your insurance. This may be a good time to get in touch with your agent and see if you have any coverage that would apply in this scenario. If so, take pictures of all affected areas: damage, wet areas, dry areas and contents damaged.

Check your policy to see if water damage is covered.

It's important to check your policy to see if water damage is covered. If you don't have insurance, you may have to pay for the damage yourself. If you do have insurance, you may need to call your insurance company and file a claim with them before any repairs can be made.

Call your insurance company and explain the situation so they can help you initiate a claim.

Once you have your claim number, you need to contact your insurance company and explain what happened. This is important because they may help you initiate a claim with the correct authorities so that they can start investigating your water damage situation.

Document everything that gets wet, including walls, ceilings, floors, furniture, etc.

This is where you need to be as thorough as possible. The insurer will not reimburse you for items that have been lost or damaged unless they can prove their worth—in other words, if you don't document the value of the item(s), there's no way for them to do so. Take pictures of all affected areas and include them in your claim filing. List all damaged items by name and description. If an item has a serial number, include that too; otherwise, take note of its make/model/style details (e.g., "name brand dresser"). Listing these details helps insurers determine how much money should be paid out for each item when it's replaced or repaired

Once everything is documented, list the cost of repair and restoration separately from any other expenses incurred during this period—for example: "Repair cost: $100." Finally, add all these figures together at the bottom of your list so they'll be visible when insurers review what happened during this event!

Your insurance policy may not cover an entire replacement of damaged property, but only repair and restoration costs.

It's important to understand that your insurance company may not pay for a full replacement of damaged property. This is because most homeowner policies only cover repair and restoration costs, not the purchase price of secondhand items. For example, if your $1,000 sofa was destroyed in a flood, your insurer might pay for it to be professionally cleaned or dry-cleaned, but they won't replace the sofa with another one like it—they'll just reimburse you for its original value (the $1,000). That can be frustrating if you really liked that old couch and would've liked to get another one from an antique store or furniture consignment shop instead of buying new.

But don't worry! Even though some things are irreplaceable (like jewelry), there are plenty of ways around this loophole when filing a water damage claim on other items as well:

The best thing you can do is be prepared. Keep your insurance policy up to date, and know what it covers in case of water damage. Water damage is a serious issue that can cause major problems for you and your family if not addressed quickly, so make sure your insurance company has all the information they need when they call with questions about filing a claim.

How To Handle a Basement Flood

7/15/2022 (Permalink)

A flooded basement in Burning Tree, OK.

No one in Burning Tree, OK, wants to walk into the basement and find see water all over the floor. Unfortunately, this scenario isn't unheard of. The basement is one of the most common places in the home for flooding to occur. At first, you may feel helpless against this disaster. You should keep a level head and take appropriate measures to stop the water and clean up the mess.

Typical Ways That Floods Start in the Basement

If you find water in the basement, you may wonder how this could happen. There are several possible culprits when you've got a basement flood. A few of these causes could be:

• A broken or ruptured pipe
• A ruptured or leaky water heater or other appliance
• A backed-up sewer line
• Improper drainage from rain gutters and downspouts
  
  

Find the Source
After making sure everyone in your home is safe, you need to find what is causing the flooding. If it's a pipe issue, turn off the water to your home. If it's an appliance, unplug it. If a sewer problem is to blame, call your local utility company.

Remove Materials
You want to mitigate as much damage as possible. Get as many items away from the water as you can and move them to dry ground. The only exception would be if black water is in your home. If this is the case, only professional crews should go near it.

Call the Pros
Professional disaster response teams are equipped to handle flood cleanup and restoration projects of all sizes. The technicians have the skills, equipment, and techniques to remove the water, clean your materials and restore your home. The technicians can even do pipe repairs. After you get in touch with a cleanup company, contact your insurance company to discuss filing a claim.
Acting decisively can help you spare more damage to your home. Also, make sure you hire a company that has experience cleaning up after flooding.

5 Things To Do When the Toilet Overflows

5/18/2022 (Permalink)

Dealing with an overflowing toilet can become stressful.

What To Do When a Toilet Overflows

Dealing with an overflowing toilet can become stressful if you don't know the proper way to fix it. Here are five essential steps you should take to alleviate toilet flooding in your Tulsa, OK, home.

1. Shut Off the Water Supply
To avoid further sewer damage and backup of water, it's important to shut off the supply. Locate your water shut-off valve below the toilet tank and promptly turn it to stop the flow.

2. Prepare the Area
An overflowing toilet can be a messy business, so you'll want to prepare for cleanup. Lay down old towels or newspapers around the flooded floor, which may collect more water in the next step.

3. Plunge or Snake the Flooded Toilet
Sewer damage can be caused by unseen issues, such as cracks in the underground line. However, a common cause of toilet overflow is a clog in the pipe. Use a plunger or toilet auger, also called a snake, to push out a clog and reduce the water level.

4. Dry and Clean the Area
If you have successfully cleared away a blockage in the pipe, it's time to clean the bathroom. Use fans to dry wet floors and cabinets, then clean the entire area with soap, water and bleach to kill bacteria. A water damage restoration company can also help with this step.

5. Call-In Professionals if There Is No Quick Fix
Sewer damage can be caused by more than just a clog in the toilet pipe. If you suspect there is another underlying cause, let a professional sewage company inspect the property and decide the best course of action.
Anyone can handle an overflown toilet by promptly shutting off the water supply, preparing the area with towels, snaking or plunging the toilet and thoroughly cleaning afterward. Consult with professionals if you cannot fix the issue on your own.

Prepare Your Building for Water Damage Repair With These 4 Tips

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage to a carpet in a commercial property in Leonard, OK.

These 4 Tips Will Help You Prepare Your Building for Water Damage Repair

After you call a water damage remediation company in Leonard, OK, you have some time before the help arrives. Besides shutting down the water flow, what should you do? These damage tips can guide you as you prepare the affected location to help guarantee an efficient repair.

1. Move All Valuables

Even a small leak or pipe burst can endanger your valuable equipment and documents if they are exposed to water. Avoid major business losses by moving all important items to an elevated area or even outside the building if necessary. Make sure it is safe to take the equipment before you begin.

2. Remove the Water

Perhaps the most crucial step is removing as much water from the building as possible. While usually professionals handle this part, you can mitigate some damage by doing it. Use a bucket and towels for smaller cases and a wet vacuum for larger amounts of water.

3. Dry the Affected Area

After taking out most of the water, the next step of the damage tips is to dry the area. Though much of the damage may remain in the items, floor and walls, drying makes it easier for the repair specialists to handle everything and reduces the overall impact. Improve air circulation by opening doors and windows. Use a dehumidifier, especially if it will be a few days before the appointment.

4. Document All Damage

Though this is not directly part of cleaning tips, a key part of the remediation process is to document the details about the incident. This information is important for your insurance company as well as the water damage experts. The data helps them determine the best tactics to execute and the equipment to use. Take photos and videos, write down detailed notes about the event and keep any necessary documents.
The cleaning and repair of your water-damaged establishment can sometimes take days after a pipe break. Use these damage tips to prepare the location for this important appointment.

3 Ways To Prevent Broken Pipes While You’re on Vacation

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

One of the best options is to turn the water in your home completely off.

Three Ways to Avoid Broken Pipes While on Vacation

Nobody wants to leave on a much-anticipated vacation only to come home to a broken pipe. If flooding occurs when you are away from home in Bixby, OK, you may not only have to deal with water pipe repair but also with the extensive water damage that can result from prolonged flooding. Luckily you can keep your house safe while you’re gone by taking a few preventative measures.

1. Check Before You Leave

Before you head out on your trip, it can be helpful to examine the pipes in your home to make sure that no problems already exist. By catching any problems before you leave, you could save yourself a lot of effort later on.

Some things to check include

• Hoses going to appliances
  
• Water heaters
  
• Pipes under sinks
  
  

Make sure all these elements are in good condition so you can avoid coming home to a flooded house.

2. Have Somebody Keep an Eye Out

Getting a neighbor or family member to check on your house while you’re away can only help. When it comes to flooding, time can make a huge difference. If there’s somebody who can catch problems early on and get any necessary water pipe repair underway, then you’ll be a lot better off in the event of a leak.

3. Turn It Off

Perhaps one of the best options is to turn the water in your home completely off. Using the water main in your house, you can ensure that no new water reaches the pipes. If you are concerned about pipes freezing and bursting, you can drain them after the water is off.

If water damage should occur even after all the steps you’ve taken against it, you can always hire a damage repair company to assist you with water pipe repair and water damage restoration. Although there are always risks for flooding, you should feel a lot better after leaving your house prepared.

Finding Your Bathtub or Shower Leak

12/23/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most common bathroom leaks is a shower pan leak.

Ways To Locate a Bathroom Leak

Water is sort of funny. When it stays where it is supposed to stay, you probably don’t think much about water. When it leaks into other areas, though, water can be impossible to ignore. If you want to preserve the condition of your Woodland Hills, OK, home, you must take your shower or bathtub leak seriously. Here are three ways to locate a bathroom leak.

1. Test the Shower Pan

One of the most common bathroom leaks is a shower pan leak. To see whether your shower pan has a leak, plug the drain completely. Then, fill the shower pan with water and note whether it drains. If it does, there is a good chance you have a leaky shower pan.

2. Check the Drain

Bathtub and shower drain cause problems for homeowners all the time. While you may know how to deal with a clogged drain, you may not realize drains can leak. If you can see your plumbing system, you can likely look for signs of water spillage. If you can’t, you may need a plumber to tell you whether your shower or bathtub leak is due to a drain problem.

3. Look for Signs of Water

When water leaks, it generally leaves minerals, discoloration and other signs behind. If you haven’t noticed that your bathtub is incapable of holding water, these indicators may tell you that there is a problem. After you fix the leak, you must think about restoring your home to its pre-leak condition. Because mold grows quickly in wet areas, you may want to ask a professional mold remediation specialist to inspect your home for signs of mold growth.

While you probably don’t want to think about a shower or bathtub leak, you may not be able to avoid one forever. By understanding how to find bathroom leaks, you increase your odds of catching and stopping the leak before it does significant damage.

3 Ways Leaks Can Affect Your Home

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

If you are dealing with water coming out of your light fixture seek professional help.

Three Ways Leaks Can Harm Your Home

The sound of water dripping in your home in Tulsa, OK, isn’t just annoying, but it’s also dangerous. It may be the first sign of a bad leak, which means you might be facing water damage. With the help of restoration professionals, you can fix these problems without concern or worry. However, it’s important to stay mindful of the possible challenges you may face such as water in light fixtures and damaged valuables. Here are three potential problems you should be aware of.

1. Structural Harm

Sometimes leaks aren’t noticeable until they affect the areas around them. Water can cause the drywall to swell and warp, which can lead to structural problems. Things such as support beam collapse and ceiling damage can occur.

Look around for any bulges or weird stains. This can help you find problems and stop them before they become more complicated.

2. Damaged Valuables

Leaks can affect places that should remain dry, including areas that hold your valuable objects and furniture. Bookshelves, memory boxes, and antiques can easily get ruined if a leak is not taken care of.

It doesn’t hurt to check your valuables often for any damage. If you find water damage, find the source of it and get it fixed quickly to avoid future issues.

3. Dangerous Light Fixtures

Sometimes, a leak might happen near electrical fixtures. If you see any water in light fixtures, stay away. Water conducts electricity and can electrocute you when you come into contact.

If you see this problem, shut off the electricity immediately. Once you have successfully turned off the power and eliminated the possibility of getting electrocuted, you can contact professionals and address the problem.

Leaks can be troublesome and sometimes dangerous if you aren’t careful. It’s best to prevent them before they occur. If you are currently dealing with a problem such as water in light fixtures, seek professional help and get started on the restoration and repair process.

A Timeline for Fixing Busted Pipes

9/6/2021 (Permalink)

As soon as you notice there is a problem, you may want to call water mitigation experts to fix the broken pipe.

You may inspect your commercial property on a regular basis, but sometimes bursting pipes still occur. If you experience water damage in Tulsa, OK, as the result of a damaged pipe, time is of the essence. You want to get it fixed quickly so that you can avoid as much damage as possible. Here is a timeline of how that may go.

Expert Location

As soon as you notice there is a problem, you may want to call water mitigation experts to fix the broken pipe. The representative who answers the phone will likely ask you a few questions to determine what kind of problem you have.

• Where is the pipe located?
• How big is the damaged area?
• How long has it been leaking?
• How fast is it leaking?
• Have you turned off the water and power to the area?

Damage Assessment

Bursting pipes are as critical as they sound. Water is likely spewing in all directions, soaking everything in its path. Once the technicians arrive, they will assess the damage this has caused and be able to devise a plan.

Water Extraction

If your preliminary report over the phone was accurate, it will likely match the professional assessment pretty closely. This means the technicians can get right to the water extraction. They pump the water out to halt its potential to cause secondary damage.

Surface Drying

It's not enough to just remove the standing water. Everything has to be dried, or your building is likely to develop a mold problem. This is particularly probable if the leak has significantly raised the humidity of the area.

All of these things ideally happen within the first 24 hours. Mold can start to grow in as little as a day, so you are probably rushing the clock to get everything dry again. The sooner you call the problem with your bursting pipes in and get the repair process started, the better chance you have of avoiding secondary damage.

Why Your Toilet Leaks and What You Can Do

6/29/2021 (Permalink)

Once you know what’s happening to your leaking toilet, you can act quickly before the leak gets bigger.

A leaking toilet can become a serious issue in your home. With constant plumbing issues such as this, you might have to deal with a lot of water damage. To help you prevent any more problems, here are a few common reasons why your toilet might be leaking.

Common Ways a Toilet Can Leak

• Supply lines direct the water from the toilet into the pipes. Both the joints of this line and the rubber lining can wear out or rupture, which can lead to water escaping and ultimately damaging the area around the toilet.

• Flappers can also become damaged and can lead to a large loss of water in the tank. Sometimes the flush handle gets stuck and allows the toilet tank to continually fill with water. This can lead to overflow and expensive water bills.

• The float is the small ball that floats in the toilet tank. If the float is damaged or cracked, this can mess up the entire flushing process.

How To Identify a Leak

If you notice a bathroom leak but you aren’t sure where the leak is coming from, there is an easy way to identify where the water is escaping. When dealing with a leaking toilet, the tank and bowl are the only two places that water can leak from. Choose one of these locations to pour in a small amount of food coloring.

Wait about an hour before inspecting the surrounding area for the colored water. If the water shows no signs of your food coloring experiment, try the other location of the toilet and test once more. From here, you can make several repairs to prevent any more leaking. You can also call a professional in Tulsa, OK, to help you out.

Once you know what’s happening to your leaking toilet, you can act quickly before the leak gets bigger. Some people choose to repair it by themselves, or they call plumbers. Either way, be sure to prevent any water damage to your home.

What To Do After a Basement Flood

3/9/2021 (Permalink)

Drying equipment is used to pull out any remaining moisture.

Flooding in your Bixby, OK, basement can cause serious problems. Fortunately, further damage can often be prevented with quick and careful action.

Potential Issues

A basement flood can lead to a variety of other problems. Some of the most common are the following:

• Electrical hazards
• Mold growth
• Structural damage
  

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, so it is extremely important to be mindful of all sources of electricity in a flooded room. Before you begin cleaning, turn off the power to the basement. Do not use any electronic devices or appliances until an electrician has told you that it is safe to do so.
Mold growth and structural damage are less immediate threats but should still be prevented if possible. Fungus can begin to grow on wet items within 24 hours. Additionally, the longer your items are wet, the more likely they are to suffer structural degradation. Therefore, it is important to dry out the area as soon as possible.

Cleanup Process
The first step to take in cleaning a water-damaged basement is finding and stopping the source of the flooding. Pipe repair and other necessary actions should be completed before you begin drying. It won’t do any good to dry out the basement if a pipe is still leaking. Once the source of the water has been addressed, it is time to begin drying and cleaning the area. Use wet/dry vacuums or pumps to remove standing water and fans or dehumidifiers to pull out any remaining moisture. Then sanitize all affected areas, and throw away anything that cannot be completely sanitized and dried. When everything is clean and dry, begin making repairs or procuring replacements for damaged items.
Basement flooding is a fairly common problem that can happen to anyone. Fortunately, taking adequate safety precautions and acting quickly decreases the likelihood of many of the associated risks occurring.

7 Reasons To Replace Polybutylene Pipes

2/10/2021 (Permalink)

If you have polybutylene pipes in your business, you are going to want to replace them.

7 Reasons To Replace Polybutylene Pipes

If you have polybutylene pipes in your business, you are going to want to replace them. Even if they seem to be in good condition, there are still plenty of reasons to go with newer materials.

1. Damage
If a polybutylene pipe breaks in your wall, you are going to experience a lot of damage. Even small leaks from this type of pipe can cause damage to your flooring, walls, HVAC units, equipment, and furniture.

2. Mold
Everyone knows about the danger of asbestos in old buildings. Roofing, siding, insulation, ceilings, flooring, and structures themselves all contain this toxic material. However, mold is also a danger you have to worry about. If your building has polybutylene pipes that leak, you could wind up with mold growing in your floors, walls, and HVAC units.

3. Exterior Pipe Breaks
If a pipe breaks outside of your business, dirt under your parking lot, sidewalk, and walkways can be washed away. This can lead to cracks and be a hazard for customers and employees.

4. Utility Bills
Even the smallest leaks can cause big problems with your bills. This is especially true as the leaks worsen, and your water bill rises.

5. Water Pressure
These pipes are small and require low water pressure to avoid leaks and bursts. When you replace them, you will be able to utilize the full water pressure that you need.

6. Hot Water
When you get new plumbing installed, you won't have to worry about hot water problems anymore. This is especially great news if there are many employees in your business or you need a lot of hot water.

7. Peace of Mind
Having these pipes can leave you worrying about the safety of your building. Replacing these outdated pipes will give you peace of mind and let you know your building is safe.
There are many reasons you should consider replacing these pipes in your business in Jenks, OK. In particular, it can save you from having extensive water damage that requires a remediation company to fix.

3 Important Steps After Finding a Kitchen Sink Leak

12/29/2020 (Permalink)

A kitchen sink leak can be a threat to your home

A water leak underneath the kitchen sink may be hard to notice, but it can threaten your Woodland Hills, OK, home. If left alone, the water can damage your kitchen cabinets, shut down electronics, and create flooding.

Follow These Three Critical Steps In Case Of A Leak

1. Stop the Water Flow
Your first major action should be to shut off the water before the damage increases. Inspect the kitchen and make sure there are no-slip, fall, and electrical hazards. Head over to the sink and check the area under it to find the two stop valves. Turn the valves clockwise to cut off the water and stop the leak. If this tactic does not work or if you cannot safely get to the sink, you need to find and use the house's water main shutoff valve.

2. Consult the Insurance Company
Once you have controlled the leaking in your kitchen, contact your insurance company. Most homeowners' insurance plans cover damage caused by water in home plumbing events. However, there are certain conditions that change the eligibility, such as the incident being caused by neglect and the presence of flooding. Consult your current policy and talk to your agent to make sure you are properly covered.

3. Call Repair Specialists
Now that you have made your claim, it is time for kitchen repair. Call in a professional plumber to fix the faulty pipe and ensure the leak is no longer a problem. After the root problem is resolved, you should contact water damage remediation specialists next. They have the necessary tools, techniques, and experience to restore the kitchen and its components in a safe and efficient manner.
Though you may be able to easily conceal a water incident below the kitchen sink, it is still crucial to fix it before it leads to flooding. Enact these three steps to resolve the problem effectively.

Four Steps to Take When You Have A Burst Pipe

12/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in Bixby, OK

Take The Following Steps Before Calling A Plumber

Bursting pipes could be a financial disaster for unprepared homeowners in Bixby, OK. The water damage from a house flood could affect your furniture, walls, carpets, wooden floors, ceilings, and other important household items. Pipes burst due to several reasons, including:

• Compression due to frozen water
• Bad soldering
• Rusted pipes
  

If you have a burst pipe, take these steps before calling a plumber to prevent water from causing severe damages to your property.

1. Turn off the main water supply line to your home.
The main water supply is the source of all the water in your home. A burst pipe will continue to dispense water until the main water supply is shut off.

2. Clear the pipes of all the remaining water.
Bursting pipes will continue to run water if the plumbing system is not drained. Once the main water supply has been shut off, make sure to empty any excess water by opening the faucets in your home. Remember to close the faucets before turning on the main water supply line when the burst pipe has been repaired.

3. Shut off the electricity if the water is near any electric outlets or lines.
Water is a good conductor for electricity, making a burst pipe especially dangerous if it is near a source of electricity. Make sure to shut off the main electricity before calling the plumber to fix broken pipes, especially if you find that the source of the leak is near any electric outlets or cables.

4. Sop up the water to prevent further damages.
If water is allowed to sit on your property, especially cabinets and furniture, the damage could be irreparable. To prevent your flooded home from becoming more damaged, sop up any excess water with towels, mops, rags, or a water vacuum if you have one. Contact a water damage restoration service to help with clean up after you have contacted your plumber.
Bursting pipes are an emergency and could cause severe damages, especially if your home has become flooded. Proper maintenance of pipes and fast-acting in case of a leak will help to reduce costly repairs.

6 Key Steps in Filing a Water Claim

10/7/2020 (Permalink)

The faster a SERVPRO arrives on-site to perform water cleanup, the better the results; including lower claim costs.

Six Tips For Making The Procedure Smooth

Homeowners in Leonard, OK, purchase property coverage to assist during times of unfortunate incidents. Flooding, busted pipes, and sewage spills happen suddenly, harming the structure and quickly escalating remediation costs. Filing an insurance claim is an opportunity to avoid paying full cost. Policyholders rely on it to make repairs possible, restoring the house's condition. This process demands attention to detail and time. The following are six tips for making the procedure as smooth as possible.

1. Locate your Policy
Be informed before you initiate a request. Not all companies handle flood issues. This is often a specific add-on; therefore, read through the documents carefully, determining whether your condition is covered. Note the deductible and any stated limits.

2. Establish Communication
Call your insurance agent, describing the event. Have your policy number handy, and state the reasons you feel this should be handled. Ask questions about upcoming procedures, and inquire about anything that is necessary from your end.

3. Acquire Assessments
While you wait for the agency to process the insurance claim, begin evaluating any immediate cleaning concerns. First, have the area tested by a water restoration company. The experts should examine for humidity levels, content conditions, air quality, mold presence, and water contamination. With this accomplished, they can guide the operations.

4. List Property Loss
Create a report that records any items destroyed, requiring replacement or demanding attention. It's better to put as much down as possible. Write out the name of the belonging or fixture. Research a replacement cost. Turn this inventory over for review. This should include anything personal as well.

5. Document Damage
When the pipe burst, it spread dampness throughout a room. Photograph everything. The pictures support your inquest. In addition, save any receipts. Consider scanning them into a file for safe keeping.

6. Meet With the Adjuster
Insurers send their own experts to the scene, verifying inquiries. Have out your own proof. Walkthrough the property together.
An insurance claim is based on your plan's information and your ability to support your inquest. Spend time gathering evidence, specifically professional opinions, and images.

What Causes Noisy Pipes?

9/17/2020 (Permalink)

Banging noises are often associated with problems involving water pressure and flow.

Noisy pipes in a home may be caused by several factors. It is important to address pipe noises, as some sounds may indicate an increased risk of a pipe break and water damage at a residence in Tulsa, OK.

Water Pressure and Flow Problems
Banging noises are often associated with problems involving water pressure and flow. There are several particular reasons that pipes may make this type of sound:

Air bubbles
Expanding CPVC lines
High water pressure
Sediment buildup
Water hammer

Any of these factors can cause pipes to make a banging or knocking noises. Air can become trapped in pipes due to water line issues and make banging, knocking, or sputtering sounds when you turn on a faucet. CPVC lines routed through narrow openings may expand and bang. High water pressure or pressure generated by sediment or valve shut off are also common causes of banging noises.

Obstructions That Slow Drainage
If sediment or debris builds up in a pipe, you may hear a gurgling noise as water drains. It may be possible to clear this blockage with consumer-grade treatments or tools that are safe to use in the lines in your home. Consult with a plumber about clearing stubborn obstructions before a pipe burst requires that you fix the broken pipe.

Worn or Loose Plumbing Components
As small plumbing components, such as washers, wear out, you may hear higher-pitched squealing, squeaking, or whistling noises. Pipes that loosen fasteners tend to make rattling noises. Having a plumber replace worn or loose parts may help you avoid a pipe break.

Whether you hear banging, gurgling, squeaking, squealing, or knocking noises from pipes, the problem may require a professional opinion. Ask a plumber about the particular cause of pipe noises at a residence in Tulsa, OK. An expert can identify conditions that could lead to a pipe break and costly water damage.

Everything You Need To Know About Flooded Furnaces

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

Flooded furnace in Liberty, OK

Water damage can severely impact several components inside your business, including the heating system. You should take a furnace flood seriously, as it can affect your establishment's functions and profits. Resolve this issue by understanding the relationship between this unit and the rest of the building, finding the source of the flooding and calling the appropriate Liberty, OK, technicians.

The Importance of a Furnace

A furnace is a device important to your building's overall heating system. Its main objective is to generate heat and transfer it throughout the location via air ducts and the system's other components. Furnaces use multiple sources to generate heat such as:

• Liquid fuel
  
• Solid fuel
  
• Gaseous fuel
  
• Electrical energy
  
• Solar energy
  
  

Heat is important for several activities inside your building. It can warm up water and energize certain devices. Additionally, it keeps everyone inside warm comfortable and safe, which is crucial during cold weather.

Origins of the Flood
There are several types of incidents that can result in a furnace flood. The most common case involves a plumbing failure where a leaky or broken pipe releases an excess of water. Sometimes, a natural disaster like a strong thunderstorm can bring water in and cause a flooded furnace. These situations cause the unit to stop working, which impacts your business's activities. Additionally, it can create hazards for employees and customers alike.

Resolving the Flood Damage
Due to the complexity of the machinery and the potential dangers of the damaged equipment, you will need to call emergency flood remediation specialists. They are the only ones who can repair the damage safely and effectively. They can remove the flood water from the area and repair or replace the heating system parts as necessary. You might also see them perform air duct cleaning to stop contaminated water from spreading throughout your business.
Water damage disrupts your business, especially when it comes to a furnace flood. Bring the right people aboard to bring your unit back to normal.

How to Care for Wet Items After a Flood

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Cleanup in Bixby, OK

The effects of a flood can be catastrophic. It doesn't take much water to damage materials and items in your Bixby, OK, home. The most severe flooding can destroy these belongings. Fortunately, if you have water at home, you can still salvage some possessions. With the help of professionals and quick response on your part, you can dry out and restore many materials.

Clean Them First

Water at home can soak precious items and valuable possessions. Before you can worry about drying them, you need to make sure they're free of dirt and other debris. Carefully handle wet items and follow these steps:

• Rinse them off with clear water.
  
• Use a low-pressure valve or fine spray.
  
• Gently dab the items with a cloth.
  
• Be careful to not embed anything in the objects. 
  
  

Make Sure They Are Dry
A broken pipe, ruptured appliances, or sewer backup can bring excessive amounts of water into your home. To save your belongings and materials, you need to thoroughly dry them. Do not use heat to dry them, as this can crack or split some items. Instead, air dry wet possessions; however, be cautious to not leave them out in the sun. 

Reduce the Risk of Mold
You may take care of dry cleaning, but this alone may not be enough to stave off mold growth. Fungi thrive in damp, humid conditions. After cleaning the affected area in your house, you'll need to increase the airflow in the area. Open windows, turn on fans and air conditioners, and use a dehumidifier. You should next disinfect the area where there was water. This will kill mold and prevent future growth from occurring. 

Call the Pros
For your most delicate items, you should call a certified flood cleanup company. Technicians have the skills and tools to clean and dry documents, electronics, and valuables. 
If you discover water at home, don't panic. Following these tips can help you spare most materials in your house.

Tips for Protecting Your Business From Water Damage

5/10/2020 (Permalink)

Create an emergency kit for your business in Liberty, OK

Extreme storm activity can occur in any location, any time of the year. Severe weather is responsible for the bulk of water-related property damage. Broken pipes and other plumbing failures make up the balance of the claims. Prevention and preparation are your best defenses against water damage. This discussion about disaster preparedness may help you reduce your risk.

Preparing Your Staff

Engaging your staff in emergency preparedness activities increases your chances of a united response during an extreme weather event. Consider taking the following precautions:

• Creating an emergency kit that includes first aid, water, flashlights and batteries
  
• Posting a map of evacuation routes from your building
  
• Registering for local emergency notification services
  
• Providing an emergency preparedness training for your staff
  
• Posting contact information for your local water remediation specialist
  
  

These precautions could mean the difference between total chaos and a measured, coordinated emergency response.

Preparing Your Facility
Shoring up your maintenance schedule can reduce your chances of water damage. Inspecting storm drains and gutters frequently, and keeping them free from debris, helps divert floodwater away from your building. Backflow-prevention valves on irrigation and plumbing lines can help protect your clean water system from contamination. If you have one or more sump pumps, it is important to attach each one to a battery backup to ensure you can prevent a flood during a power outage.

Assessing Your Risk
One of the best ways to protect your Liberty, OK, facility is to evaluate and address the risk your location bears for flooding. You can consult your local weather officials or city planning department to get an idea of past water damage in your area. Conventional insurance policies generally don’t cover flooding, so it’s important to consult your commercial insurance agent to discuss flood insurance coverage options.
If serious flooding threatens your area, you will appreciate having spent some time on research and preparation. A few simple preventive measures could minimize your risk for damage, prevent costly water cleanup, and protect your company’s bottom line.

Fixing Your Water Damage the Right Way

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

Advanced drying equipment in Liberty, OK

Having a water emergency in your business can be a frightening situation. Damage from flooding, a broken pipe or other leak can pose a huge problem for your company in Liberty, OK. Not only do you have to worry about the health and safety of your employees, but the cost of water clean up and the significant downtime from productivity can seriously impact your profits.

Cleaning the Right Way

While it may be tempting to choose a non-professional for the restoration of your property, this could have a dangerous outcome. Harmful chemicals and other contaminants can be hiding in or under the flooring and if not dried properly can pose a critical health threat to your employees.
It is important to have a certified water damage expert analyze the situation and help you come up with the best solution for your company’s water clean up. Specialists receive certification through the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). The IICRC was founded in 1972 and currently boasts over 60,000 certified technicians. IICRC standards were developed following American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited procedures. ANSI is recognized worldwide as the leading source for trusted standards.

Certifications

Water damage experts are trained to know what problems to look for and how best to solve them. There are several specialized programs available through the IICRC. These include:• Applied Structural Drying Technician• Commercial Drying Specialist• Building Moisture Thermography• Water Damage Restoration Technician• Applied Microbial Remediation Technician

The Commercial Drying Specialist certification course is focused on advanced drying techniques, primarily for industrial and commercial structures. The training also includes damage inspection techniques and advanced thermodynamic concepts. The course will also teach the skills necessary to manage a complex project.
Dealing with water clean up can be worrisome and traumatic but knowing that you can rely on an expert to help you resolve the problem should ease your mind and get you back in business in no time.

Preventing Frozen Pipes

12/23/2019 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes in Oklahoma City

Preventing Frozen Pipes

You live in Oklahoma City where the temperature drops well below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, you know that your water pipes may freeze. Unfreezing them is a chore that requires patience, so it's better if they don't freeze in the first place, which requires diligence and preparation.

In Oklahoma City, temperatures can drop to the teens or low 20s just about any time between November and March. Usually, there is plenty of warning on the local Edmond news. Follow these tips to reduce the likelihood of frozen pipes and the resulting water damage.

• When you hear those warnings, make sure you open the faucets in your Edmond house, and let them drip throughout the dangerous weather. That will keep them from freezing and causing a lot of water damage. However, before you get to that point, prepare your pipes. Wrap any exposed areas in fiberglass insulation or foam rubber.
  
  
• If you have exposed piping in your crawl space or attic, insulate it to ward off the extreme cold.
  
  
• Open all your cabinet doors so that warm air can circulate around the pipes.
  
  
• You can also install powered heat tape, which requires little maintenance and provides maximum protection. It costs pennies per day to keep your Edmond pipes safe an prevent water damage.
  
  
• If you have a conglomeration of pipes in one area, put a high-wattage lamp near them to keep them warm.
  
  
• Stop all drafts from getting to the pipes by caulking the nearby windows and any openings in the foundation.
  
  
• Slow and steady wins the race. A professional plumber knows how to slowly thaw your pipes safely, so they won't suffer more water damage.

If your pipes do freeze, remain calm. Don't try to thaw them in 30 minutes. If you overheat your frozen pipes, you could cause internal steam that will burst your pipes, and then you'll have frozen pipes and a big mess of water damage to repair and clean. A hair dryer set on low will do the job quite nicely if you have the patience to let it work.

If you're unlucky enough to have your pipes burst and cause water damage, you should contact SERVPRO of South Tulsa County immediately to fix your pipes and remove any trace of the problem. We're standing by to perform emergency service if you need us. Call (918) 437-2095 if you need help 24/7/365.

An unexpected cold snap can snarl your pipes. Be prepared against any such event. Thoroughly insulate your Oklahoma City home, and pay attention to the weather reports. A measure of prevention will eliminate any need for a cure. But if your pipes do burst, we're ready to fix the water damage and make sure it does not recur.

Preparing for the Insurance Adjuster's Visit After a Sudden Pipe Break or Flood

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

The insurance adjuster works closely with our team from start to finish

Preparing for the Insurance Adjuster's Visit After a Sudden Pipe Break or Flood

The first part of the insurance claim process is the home adjuster visit. These visits validate the claim and offer an estimate for restoration value. Therefore, to ensure you receive the funds you need following a water disaster like a pipe break, it is necessary to follow the appropriate steps.

• Mitigate damage
  
• Document loss
  
• Organize and categorize
  
  

Mitigate Damage

The first step is to mitigate any further damage. You can do this, depending on the severity of the loss, through DIY methods or by calling a disaster restoration company in Leonard, OK. These companies will likely have mitigation services available around the clock.

Document Loss

Next, once you know that further loss is unlikely, you can begin documenting the damage. For example, take photos of water damage and property that was ruined in the incident. A home adjuster moves quickly from site to site, so having damaged or irrecoverable items photographed ensures that nothing is missed on their visit.

Organize and Categorize

Next, once you have photographic evidence, find any receipts or service bills to demonstrate the value and care of the items affected by the flood. Documenting and organizing this information is another way of making life easier for the adjuster and ensuring that you get the coverage you need to make your home and yourself whole again.
Many people view a home adjuster as an enemy, someone out to cancel payments and make sure that you cannot recover from a disaster. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Yes, their job is to minimize costs to their company, but it is also to make sure that you get what you deserve. Therefore, when a disaster strikes, don't get angry with an adjuster who keeps asking questions. Instead, find a way to reduce their questions through well-documented scenes and show them how prepared you are for their visit.

What Is Secondary Damage?

12/6/2019 (Permalink)

Mold can grow and spread quickly

If a flood starts in your home, your priority is to stop the source and get everyone out safely. The initial damage from flooding can be severe. However, sometimes what is known as secondary damage can be an even bigger concern. Issues such as black mold can develop if you don't clean up the water and the effects of primary damage.

Preventing Secondary Damage

You may not be able to stop flooding from occurring. Issues such as a sewer backup or heavy rainfall are out of your control. However, you can minimize additional problems with prompt attention and by hiring a professional flood remediation company. Specifically, you should:

• Repair any pipe leaks or broken appliances that caused the flooding.
• Remove porous materials from the affected area immediately.
• If it's safe to do so, extract any water from your home.

Mold Growth

Mold is one of the most common forms of damage after a flood. This fungus thrives in conditions such as high humidity and dampness. If you don't act fast and dry up any water, mold can grow and spread quickly. Sometimes, black mold can appear within 48 hours of the flood.

Rotting Wood

The flood cleanup team can save the building materials in your home, including wood. However, if water remains on the wood too long, it will start to rot. This could compromise the structural integrity of your Tulsa, OK, house. Make sure you call a team of specialists as soon as possible after you discover water in any room.

Corrosion

If left wet, metal can corrode and wear away. This can affect the pipes in your home as well as appliances and electronic devices. Cleanup crews will dry the items and thoroughly sanitize it as well.
To reduce the risk of getting black mold or experience other secondary problems, don't procrastinate flood cleanup. If you hire professionals, you can have peace of mind.

Tips for Handling Water Damage

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Jenks, OK home

Tips for Handling Water Damage

If your home has been affected by water damage, you may feel in over your head. Whether the water came from a broken pipe or a natural disaster, it's crucial to have some basic water damage remediation knowledge on hand. You will need to take action as soon as possible to start the restoration process and to limit the damage as much as you can.

Do: Call a professional. Water damage can be a very serious issue to face. You will most likely need a water damage restoration expert to handle the situation most safely and effectively.

Do Not: Attempt to clean sewage water on your own. The water in your home can be unsanitary and unsafe if it is backup from a sewer system.

Do: Ventilate the space. If you can access it safely, turn on your home's ventilation system to air the area out. You can hang rugs up and lift curtains from the floors. To increase airflow, open doors and drawers throughout your home. Find a dry, safe place to relocate valuables.

Do Not: Use any electrical appliances while on a wet surface. Water and electricity do not mix, so take any flooding of your home seriously.

Do: Stop the water flow. If you find that the water is coming from a broken pipe, and water levels are low, shut off the main water line to your home. Do Not: Wait to address the problem. Time is of the essence in a water damage emergency. It's more important to make a remediation plan than it is to try to save all your belongings.

Keep these tips in mind as you set about drying and cleaning up, should you find water damage in your Jenks, OK home. Be it a broken pipe, a sewer backup, a hurricane, or any other water predicament, it's important to keep yourself calm and make a plan immediately.

How Different Categories of Water Damage Can Affect Your Home

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Category 1 water is generally considered the least harmful category

How Different Categories of Water Damage Can Affect Your Home

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when your home in Leonard, OK, is flooded. Many homeowners don’t realize that clean water and contaminated water can have drastically different impacts on homes, and that these categories of water can majorly affect the restoration process.

1. Category 1

Known as clean water, category 1 water is generally considered the least harmful category of water damage. A broken supply line or an overflowing sink are common sources of this category of water. Since this type of water doesn’t contain potentially harmful debris, it is often relatively simple to remove. As long as the water is removed in a timely manner and the home is thoroughly dried and restored, the likelihood of secondary damage is minimal compared to other categories of water damage.

2. Category 2

Category 2 water damage can come from a variety of sources, including washing machines or sump pumps. This category of water is known as contaminated water or gray water because, unlike clean water, it generally contains some amount of debris. This type of water should be handled with caution when it is removed. If this category of water is left to sit in a home, it can turn into category 3 water.

3. Category 3

When floodwater contains hazardous debris, it is generally referred to as black water or category 3 water. Flooding that starts outside the home or a sewer line break are common causes of this category of water. The removal process is often time-consuming, and it can be helpful to contact residential water damage repair experts to ensure that the water is safely removed. In many cases, it is necessary to thoroughly sanitize the home after category 3 water has been removed.

Though no homeowner wants their home to sustain water damage, having clean water rather than contaminated water or black water can make restoration simpler. Knowing the effects of different categories of water damage on homes can help to prepare you for restoration.

What You Need To Know About Polybutylene Pipes

4/19/2019 (Permalink)

Many business owners in Tulsa, OK do not think about the quality of the pipes in their properties until an issue arises.

Many business owners in Tulsa, OK do not think about the quality of the pipes in their properties until an issue arises. However, it can be beneficial for business owners and managers to learn about polybutylene pipes before damage occurs.

1. What Are They?

From the 1970s to the 1990s, many plastic pipes used in plumbing were installed in homes and businesses. The plastic was inexpensive to manufacture and simple to install, making it a popular choice for business owners and homeowners. However, it soon became clear that the pipes were not the best choice to use in plumbing systems, and they have since been replaced in many buildings.

2. Common Issues

Due to the plastic material they are made of, polybutylene pipes are prone to breaking, cracking and leaking. The plastic also tends to age poorly, which can result in worsening water quality over a span of a few years. Buildings that have these pipes installed often sustain water damage and require emergency restoration services. The pipes were eventually discontinued after they caused a myriad of issues, though they still are installed in many older buildings.

3. Importance of Replacement

A new plumbing system can benefit businesses in a variety of ways. In order to bring a building up to code, it’s often necessary to replace outdated materials, including the plastic pipes. Unlike the pipes made of plastic, pipes today are made of more durable materials that are meant to last. Additionally, business owners can save money over time when they replace old pipes, as newer, more durable pipes require significantly less maintenance and upkeep.

The material used in pipes can drastically affect the wellbeing of a business. Knowing what polybutylene pipes are, common issues with them and why they should be replaced can allow business owners and managers to take action before this outdated equipment causes damage to their businesses.

3 Steps to Take When Your Toilet Overflows

3/19/2019 (Permalink)

Bad pipes, clogs or even sewer damage can cause toilet overflows in the blink of an eye.

3 Steps To Take When Your Toilet Overflows

Toilets are the workhorses of the bathroom, so naturally, they occasionally malfunction. One of the most common outcomes of a toilet issue is an overflow, an outpouring of water that can be messy and even dangerous if water is contaminated. Whether caused by sewer damage or an everyday clog, a flooded toilet can pose a fast-moving crisis. Don’t panic. Use these tips to be ready when your Tulsa, OK faces this common household calamity.

Why Toilets Overflow

The first thought when a toilet overflows is a clog or even sewer damage, but many things can cause your bowl to shut down. Causes include:

• Stopped up toilet traps
• Blocked drain pipes
• Clogged sewer lines

Whatever the cause, the outcome is the same, a bathroom flooded with gray water. It’s key to know what steps to act fast to minimize damage.

Stop the Water

Immediately reach behind your toilet and find the water shut off valve. If you don’t have one, try opening the tank and removing or blocking the float so it won’t keep letting water fill the tank.

Clean Up

Toilet overflow water is considered contaminated gray water at best and black water if it contains human waste. It’s important after a toilet overflow that you immediately use towels to clean up the water. Wash or dispose of them afterward.

Find the Blockage

In cases where you are certain something is blocking the toilet, try removing it either by hand or with a plunger. Be sure to wear gloves to avoid contaminating your hands. If you can’t find the object or it’s too stuck, it’s time to call a plumber or sewage company.

Bad pipes, clogs or even sewer damage can cause toilet overflows in the blink of an eye. Know how to handle them. Use these tips to stop the flow of water then call your local sewage removal experts for extensive cleanup.

Make Your Homeowners' Insurer Happy – Prevent Water Damage With These Simple Tips

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

A broken pipe upstairs caused the ceiling in this room to collapse under the weight of the water

Water damage is the number one reason for homeowners' insurance claims in the United States. The thing about water damage, however, is that, the majority of the time, it's preventable. Water in home is often the result of a broken pipe, burst pipe or leaking pipe. In the minority of instances, it is the result of flooding, which, to some extent, can also be prevented. If you want to get on. Your insurer's good side, there are measures you can take today to prevent costly water damage in your home.

• Check your appliances.
  
• Have your HVAC unit inspected.
  
• Inspect pipes for condensation or erosion.
  
  

It doesn't take much to prevent water damage. Below is a brief guide of how and why you should implement the above tips.

Give Your Appliances a Once Over

Appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters and refrigerators are a common source of water in the home. Aging materials crack, connections become loose and cold weather causes pipe bursts. You can prevent all from happening by conducting routine maintenance on all appliances and wrapping pipes with insulation if you live in a colder climate.

Request an HVAC Inspection

There are countless reasons to have your HVAC unit inspected. For one, routine maintenance can prevent costly issues. Two, regular inspections can ensure that your units are clean and therefore, only push out clean air. Three, maintenance technicians can spot moisture issues and correct them before they become costly and damaging.

Inspect Your Pipes

Pipes run all throughout your home. There are pipes in your bathroom, in your kitchen and in your laundry room. They run down into your basement and possibly up to your attic. They run through your walls and beneath your floorboards. For this reason, a single leak can become a costly and damaging problem. You can prevent costly water damage in your home by inspecting your pipes on a routine basis or, at the very least, hiring someone else to do it for you.

Pipe cleanup can be costly. You can prevent it by working with a Glenpool, OK, water damage restoration team to identify issues and correct them before they become expensive problems.

What Is the Timeline For Water Damage Cleanup?

12/30/2018 (Permalink)

Unnoticed leak caused the ceiling to collapsed and covered the room with water and mold

Whether water damage results from bursting pipes or flooding, it is important to eliminate standing water and residual moisture as soon as possible. The cleanup process typically takes experts between three days to a week and a half to complete. Find out what to expect during a professional cleanup at a residence in Bixby, OK.

Average Cleanup Timeframe

Most homeowners should expect cleanup to take three to five days. The length will depend on:

• The extent of the residence exposed to water
  
• The contamination level of water
  
• How long water has been leaking or left standing
  
• The materials saturated by water
  

Homeowners should fix broken pipe or address the cause of damage as soon as possible. Afterward, professionals should remove all standing water, clean, and thoroughly dry the affected area. Avoid rushing the mitigation process, as attempting to rebuild or restore an area before it is completely dry may lead to mold growth.

Extenuating Circumstances

If wood flooring or other specialized materials are exposed to flooding or water from bursting pipes, it may take anywhere from seven to 10 days to complete the cleanup process. Hardwood floors may have to undergo several stages of cleanup, including:

• Drying the subfloor
  
• Sanding
  
• Scraping
  
• Retrofitting
  

The category of water involved can also prolong the duration of cleanup. Clean Category One water can simply be removed and the affected area can be dried. Contaminated Category Two gray water or Category Three black water calls for cleaning, disinfection, and drying. Porous contents and materials exposed to black water may need to be torn out and replaced.

Homeowners should hire a professional water damage restoration service to establish a schedule for cleanup, mitigation, and restoration. It may take less time to fix damage resulting from bursting pipes than to clean up flooding. The affected area must dry completely prior to restoration to prevent mold from forming.

Water damage can happen after pluming failure

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Bixby,OK home

The Importance of Water Mitigation

When a person's home experiences water damage, they will want to reduce the amount of damage that occurs. Water mitigation is the process of preventing damage from water inside a building. The goal is to keep any additional water damage from happening by taking fast and effective action. 

Cause And Result 

Water damage can happen after a structure has a plumbing failure. It can also result because of storm water. Broken underground pipes have also caused water damage. This has resulted in soaked rugs, warped floors, damaged furniture, walls and more. This is a time when immediate water mitigation steps need to be taken. 

Water Damage - Disaster

When a home has a plumbing failure, it is important the main water source be shut off. When flooding happens, work may not be able to begin until water levels have dropped. No matter what the cause, when water damage happens it is essential electrical breakers is shut down. This makes it possible to safely unplug and remove electrical devices. These devices could be on a wet carpet or in areas submerged in water. Aluminum foil should be placed under the legs or feet of furniture in contact with a wet carpet. Curtains and draperies should be removed if in contact with the water or a wet carpet. Immediately remove papers, shoes or other items that could be damaged. Walking on a wet carpet should be avoided as much as possible.

Inspection

Once the source of the water problem has been addressed, it's time for professionals to conduct an inspection. They will be able to carefully inspect the property and determine the extent of the damage. A recovery plan will be created. This will cover the details necessary to return a building back to its original condition. 

Water Extraction

Water that damages a building can be contaminated. Water in a home from flooding can be sewage or polluted ground water. This is a situation that could cause severe illness to people and their pets. Pumps and other equipment can be used to remove water. There is a good chance this can be done without removing any of the building's contents. This also includes removing any items soaked with water including tems such as carpeting, furniture and more. Anything that has absorbed water and cannot be restored must be removed.

Drying and Mold Prevention

Water damage can create vast amounts of mold if not handled correctly. It is important to take steps immediately to remove mold and prevent it from reoccurring. This will require using state-of-the-art dehumidifiers and air movers. It will require the humidity inside a building be carefully monitored and controlled. If the humidity is not handled properly, items not destroyed during the water damage could absorb moisture and be ruined. The damaged area must also be kept at an acceptable temperature. Providing an improper temperature is a major cause of microorganism and bacterial growth after water is removed.

Completion

It is important for a structure to be stabilized, and its integrity maintained. Every water mitigation project will be different. It's important to utilize the services of experienced water removal technicians. They will have the proper equipment and experience to restore any type of structure that experienced water damage. 

How To Deal With Kitchen Leaks

10/9/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent any dishwasher mishaps, keep the kitchen sink unclogged

Water is used every day in your Bixby, OK, home, but it can be nerve-wracking when the water leaks. Any unwanted flooding may lead to ruined appliances, water damage, and mold. To prevent this from happening, learn about two common kitchen leaks and what you can do to fix them.

1. The Kitchen Sink

Plumbing fixtures don’t last forever. Sometimes the pipes get old or they malfunction. If you detect a puddle of water underneath the sink, act quickly. Remove all the items in the exposed cabinet and wipe up the water with a towel. Don’t forget to dry the underside of the sink.

Once you have soaked up all the water, leave the cabinet doors open to dry. Leave a towel and test for an actual leak by turning on the faucet and running the garbage disposal. If the sink continues to leak, call a professional.

2. The Dishwasher

Dishwashers can leak and lead to serious flooding. This is a problem most people want to avoid, especially because the water can seep into the floor and cause water damage problems below. To prevent any dishwasher mishaps, keep the kitchen sink unclogged. If kitchen repair is needed, it’s best to dry out the area and call a professional.

The Solution

There are a few common ways to discover water problems in the home. If you are concerned about kitchen leaks or water damage in your home, look out for the following signs:

• Dripping water
• Stained ceilings or floors
• Swollen or wet walls
• Mold

If you discover any these, contact a professional for help. Water damage should be taken care of quickly to avoid further problems.

Keep an eye out for leaks and potential issues that can lead to flooding. Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements are often the most vulnerable to leaks. By being aware and acting quickly, you can prevent unwanted water in home appliances and surrounding areas.

Helping Your Home Adjuster Helps Home Repair

6/23/2018 (Permalink)

Insurance claims can be an easy process with proactive action.

After significant damage to your home in Tulsa, OK, your insurance company starts the process of determining adequate compensation and cleanup. As one of the first steps, a home adjuster is sent to personally investigate the damage, declare fault and approve coverage. Adequate preparation for this visit saves valuable time for starting up the cleanup and ensures the coverage is comprehensive.

Prepare Proof of Possession Damage

The representative sent for the insurance claim will ask for information about any damaged property. Researching and gathering records beforehand is very effective at stopping the need to scramble for it during or after the visit. There are several pieces of information that are helpful to have ready to hand over:

• Item description
• Purchase date
• Cost to repair or replace
• Hard copy of receipt to validate claims
• Videos or pictures of the damage and item before damage if possible

Inspect Your Own Home

Your own inspection should be conducted before a professional one. You will notice structural damage that wasn’t there before. As you go through your home, you should take notes on any new damage to structures. The home adjuster can then be guided to minor damage that may be missed and uncovered otherwise.

Shop Around

Multiple contractors can be contacted to figure out the price of materials and labor. It’s typical to reach out to an affordable professional restoration company. You can use all gathered information to understand what costs should look like to determine a fair price. Shopping around simplifies the process if you can offer bids for the work to your insurance that are affordable and dependable.

Keep Records

Throughout the entire process, you should maintain copies of every document sent to and from your insurance for your reference. Written records of names and phone numbers are effective so you never find yourself struggling to recall with whom you spoke to.

Insurance claims can be an easy process with proactive action. By helping out a home adjuster with preparation, you can ensure the repairs are timely and thorough. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com/.

Ceiling Fixture Leaks: 3 Quick Mitigation Solutions

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Dealing with leaks in your Tulsa, OK home may be something you have dealt with in the past. However, it can be startling when they come from your ceiling's light fixtures. These leaks can cause flooding and damage your electrical system, so acting quickly to stop the leak when you notice water in a light fixture can prevent costly problems later.

1. Shut Off the Water

Shutting off the water to your home can prevent pooling and flooding, especially if the leak is up in your attic. This can also slow or stop ceiling damage caused by a broken pipe. Once you shut off the water, it is wise to avoid your attic space for a bit, even if you know that is where the leak originated, because it may not be safe to enter.

2. Turn Off the Electricity to Your Upper Floors

Water in a light shade can pose a severe electrical shock hazard, so turning off the electricity to your upper floors can reduce the risk of injury or fire. Be cautious operating your fuse box, and wear rubber gloves for additional protection. Have family members move to the main floor of your home to ensure their safety before you cut the power.

3. Call for Flood Cleanup Services

Having a flood cleanup and restoration company come to drain pooling water from your home and assess the damage can help you begin the repair process. These professionals can also advise you about ceiling damage and whether you will need to replace any sections stained or weakened by the leak. Once flood technicians clean up and ensure that the attic is safe to enter, you can go up and inspect the damage to report it to your insurance agent.

Finding water in a light fixture or dripping from your Tulsa, OK home's ceiling can be a stressful experience. Knowing which actions might prevent serious water damage and keep your family safe might help you take action with confidence if a leak should occur. Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on water damage. 

What Happens During Water Heater Cleanup

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Most water heaters are stored in a convenient space out of everyone’s way, either in a basement, closet or garage. While this is great when it comes to floorplan layout, it can be inconvenient if you have a leaking water heater. The time it takes to clean up after a broken water heater depends heavily on where it’s located. Here’s a look at what happens during a water heater cleanup.

1. Complication Assessment

The first thing that your water cleanup specialist is going to do is figure out how difficult of a remediation job it’s going to be. If a failed water heater has flooded part of your home, professionals will be able to figure out the easiest and best way to clear the water and restore the damage.

2. Water Extraction

The water has to be taken out quickly. Mold growth is more rampant in warm and wet areas. The warm water is perfect for the growth of bacteria. When it comes time to remove the water, you can’t simply soak it up or use a sump pump to extract it. There may be more moisture than you can see. A professional has to draw water from the walls and the carpets. This can be done with pumps, vacuums and dehumidifiers.

3. Home Disinfection

If your leaking water heater is out of sight and out of mind, it’s possible that you won’t realize that it flooded your basement or garage. In this case, there could be time for mold to grow. Cleanup and disinfecting has to come next. Scrub walls and non-porous surfaces with a strong formula of detergent, water and vinegar.

When it comes to a leaking water heater, it’s important that you never ignore it. While any type of flood in your Tulsa, OK home can seem overwhelming, the water mitigation process is uncomplicated with the help of a remediation professional. Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on water damage.

What to do if washing machine hose fails?

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Washing Machine Hoses

A broken supply hose causes more than half of all water damage insurance claims. These insurance claims are costly. The average claim is around $6,000. If the homeowner fails to monitor the condition of the hose, it can burst. A busted hose can spill hundreds of gallons of water within an hour. Significant volumes of water can cause catastrophic water damage in Edmond in a very little time. 

There are several causes of a washing machine hose break, they include: 

Age

The hose is old and has worn out over time. If the hose is more than five years old, there is an increased risk of the hose wearing out. More than 80 percent of hoses fail between their sixth and tenth year of use.

Materials

The type of hose affects its durability. Reinforced rubber hoses, while of good quality, weaken with age, are susceptible to cracks and leaks resulting in flood damage. Floodchek hoses are the best quality.

Installation

An improperly installed hose can also cause the hose to fail. The most common installation problem involves not leaving enough room to prevent kinks in the hose.

To avoid dealing with a burst hose, replace them every five years with a steel-jacket hose. Labeling the hose with the installation date will help with remembering when to replace them. A visual inspection of the hoses every six months ensures that any initial signs of wear are identified.

Piping

You cannot prevent a piping problem without knowing the type of piping that is in your home. Different types of piping will have different types of issues. If you have a home inspection before you purchase a home in Bixby, ask the inspector about the types of pipes in the house. You can also contact a plumber to inspect your home for potential water damage.

Understanding the types of pipes in your home can determine the pipes life expectancy and how to avoid leaks, flood and health issues. The age of the pipe is not a definitive determination of its remaining life span. However, it can serve as a good estimate. Maintained pipes will have a longer life than pipes that are not maintained. When pipes have exceeded their lifespan plumbing issues, like leaking and water damage, will arise. 

Pipe Problems

Lead and polybutylene pipes, most commonly used years ago, are known for their early deterioration and susceptibility to breaking. If you think you have these types of pipes, have them inspected by a plumber. When these pipes deteriorate, the water quality decreases and the chances for leaks and water damage increases. Lead pipes can last for roughly 100 years. However, many people replace these pipes sooner because of the issues associated with lead usage.

Water Heaters

In a study by the Institute for Business and Home Safety, water heater malfunctions are the leading cause of water damage insurance claims in residential properties. The cost of these claims is often around $4,000. The majority of water heater failures are the result of burst or leaking tanks. If the water heater is more than five years old, the chances of it failing increases. The average water heater does not last beyond twelve years. 

All water heaters will weaken over time. The water’s mineral content, frequency of use, and its maintenance schedule affects their lifespan. Many people avoid purchasing a new water heater because of its cost. However, the costs associated with a leaking water heater may be far more expensive.

Maintenance Tips

Here are a few maintenance tips that will help to prolong the life of a water heater.

• Make sure there is at least two feet of clearance around the water heater.
• Flush the tank annually to remove any debris and sediment.
• Check the anode rod every three to five years. If the core steel wire is exposed more than six inches or the rod is caked, replace it.

Unfortunately, because these three systems go unnoticed, they are neglected. The neglect can result in problems. Taking a moment to routinely check them will avoid catastrophic problems that can damage your home.

When you need help at night or weekend give us a call we will be there call us at (918) 437-2095 

Water damage cleanup in Tulsa

12/15/2017 (Permalink)

Damage from water and moisture can seriously compromise the structural integrity of your home. Many consumers wonder about what to do when their home suffers water damage in Tulsa. Cleanup is a concern of numerous Tulsa property owners after a dwelling sustains water damage during a flood. Stillwater homeowners may not know where to begin or how to complete the cleanup in a way that will not lead to further water damage in their Tulsa home. In addition, burst pipes, faulty plumbing or similar problems may have been detected by the homeowner as the source of the water damage, but the repairs are not something he or she wishes to tackle. For this reason, water damage restoration companies are the best resource for individuals faced with such scenarios.

Why Professional Water Damage Mitigation is Essential!

The timely completion of water damage repair is vital if the Tulsa homeowner wishes to avoid costly renovations. If moisture is allowed to seep into areas other than the site of the problem, extra repairs are almost always necessary. If basement flooding is not addressed as soon as it is discovered, the water could destroy major electrical appliances, such as a water heater, washing machine or even the home's furnace. These and other appliances can be very expensive to replace. Electrical wiring can also be ruined regardless of whether or not an electrical fire occurred.

Mold and Health Problems

After a home has sustained water damage in Tulsa, there is a high risk for the rapid proliferation of mold or mildew. These substances not only ruin items within an Tulsa home, but can also lead to health problems such as allergies and acute asthma and a increased risk for certain respiratory infections. Persons living within a home already suffering from asthma or allergies are at a greater risk for such illnesses.

Complications

Unless the problem is particularly mild, water damage repair in Tulsa is often a complicated task. If moisture has seeped into insulation panels, drywall or floorboards water damage mitigation can be very tricky. Specific tools and protective gear are often necessary to work in such areas and appropriately complete the repairs. 

Choosing a Water Damage Company in Tulsa

Those wondering what to do when a home suffers from water damage in Tulsa will be pleased to know that professionals are available to mitigate the problem. With the exception of minor repairs that can be easily addressed, such repairs should never be attempted without the help of a moisture damage specialist. In most cases, flood cleanup from water damage involves more than merely cleaning floors or furniture and drying out personal belongings. The dwelling must also be evaluated for hazardous situations involving electrical wiring and the presence of the aforementioned mildew and mold. Mold can typically be detected by Tulsa homeowners once it has grown for several days. Most professionals use special equipment to detect its presence at an immature stage of growth that is difficult to see with the naked eye. For all these reasons, it is in the best interest of all Tulsa homeowners to contact a professional when water damage in Tulsa homes is discovered.

SERVPRO of South Tulsa County Professionals provide fire and water damage restoration services. 

Don’t Let Black Water Put You in the Red

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Don’t Let Black Water Put You in the Red

When commercial property in Tulsa, OK is flooded, it can have negative impacts on your business. Water damage of any kind can ruin equipment, furniture, important records and merchandise. However, when natural disasters such as hurricanes and heavy storms occur, flooding becomes an even bigger concern because the water typically causes the sewer to backup, which leads to bacteria-filled black water.

What Are the Different Types of Contaminated Water?

Experts use a three-category system to rate the level of contaminants in different types of water. The first category is “clean water,” which comes from a fresh supply line, such as a sprinkler system or sink faucet. The second category is “gray water,” which comes from sources like washing machine drains. This water is dirty but not highly toxic. “Black water” is the third and most dangerous category. Flood water, sewage and drain backups, and toilet overflows fall into this category because the contaminants in these waters are so toxic.

How Can Unsafe Water Destroy a Business?

When commercial property is invaded by sewage water, it contaminates the air, floor and everything it touches. If not properly sanitized, unsafe water can continue to be harmful to people. Whether the building is for a retail property, manufacturing facility or warehouse, it can put people’s health at risk. That, in turn, can make your business liable and harm your reputation. Safety concerns can also cause a business to have to close its doors, which only results in further loss.

What Can Be Done About Harmful Flood Water?

If you find yourself dealing with water damage, act quickly and call a commercial water restoration expert. Most are available 24-hours a day and will assess the damage, extract the water safely, remove contaminated articles, and sanitize the area according to national standards for safety.

When black water causes water damage to your Tulsa, OK commercial property, it can put your bottom line in the red if not dealt with properly. Using this information if a flood occurs can help your business stay intact.
Visit http://www.SERVPROsouthtulsacounty.com for more information on water damage.