Archived Water Damage Blog Posts
A Step-by-Step Explanation of How We Handle Water Damage Claims
3/11/2024 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Eaton County, we've seen firsthand the havoc that water damage can wreak on homes and businesses. From burst pipes to natural disasters, water damage doesn't discriminate, and the aftermath can be devastating. However, amidst the chaos, there's a glimmer of hope in the form of professional cleanup and restoration services.
First and foremost, when dealing with water damage, time is of the essence. The longer water sits, the more extensive the damage becomes, leading to mold growth, structural issues, and potential health hazards. That's why our response time is crucial. We're trained to act swiftly, arriving on-site promptly to assess the situation and begin mitigation efforts immediately.
One of the first steps in water damage cleanup is extraction. Using specialized equipment such as pumps and wet/dry vacuums, we remove standing water from the affected area. This step is vital for preventing further saturation of building materials and minimizing the risk of secondary damage.
Once the excess water is removed, we focus on drying and dehumidification. Industrial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers are strategically placed to facilitate evaporation and draw moisture out of the air and surfaces. This step may take several days to complete, depending on the extent of the damage and environmental conditions.
In addition to drying, thorough cleaning and sanitation are essential components of the restoration process. We use antimicrobial treatments to disinfect affected areas and inhibit mold growth. Porous materials like carpeting and drywall may need to be removed and replaced if they cannot be adequately cleaned and dried.
Throughout the cleanup and restoration process, communication with the property owner is paramount. We provide regular updates on our progress and work closely with insurance companies to streamline the claims process. Our goal is to alleviate stress and uncertainty for our clients while restoring their property to its pre-damaged condition as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Water damage cleanup is a complex and multi-faceted endeavor that requires expertise, experience, and dedication. At SERVPRO of Eaton County, we take pride in helping our customers navigate the challenges of water damage restoration, providing peace of mind during a stressful time. If you ever find yourself facing water damage, remember that SERVPRO® is Here to Help®. You every step of the way.
Call us 24/7 at 517-714-1170
5 Things to Do After Basement Flooding
9/5/2023 (Permalink)
Few things are more stressful and disgusting than basement flooding. Whether it’s one inch or one foot of water, the effects can be detrimental to your home. And while damage to things like carpet, drywall, and furniture are immediately noticeable, something more serious could be lurking underneath your floors.
Five Things to Do After Basement Flooding
Whether it’s just a couple of inches of water or a few feet, you must respond quickly to basement flooding. Here are a few things you’ll need to do:
- Kill the Power
If there’s standing water in your basement, then you shouldn’t attempt to walk or wade through until you’ve shut off the power and made sure that open circuits aren’t covered by water. This can obviously be an electrocution hazard and isn’t something you want to mess with.
If you’re unsure of whether the electricity is cut off, can’t get to the circuit board, or simply don’t feel comfortable with the situation, then don’t attempt to go anywhere near the water.
- Get Rid of the Standing Water
The next order of business is to get rid of the water. The longer the water sits in your basement, the more damage it will cause. Make sure you put on a pair of sturdy shoes or boots and pants that cover your legs. You never know what’s lurking underneath the water and don’t want to risk hurting yourself.
If the standing water is high, your first step is to get a bucket and start manually removing the water (be sure to dump far away from the home’s foundation). Once you extract most of the water, you can use a wet vacuum to suck up the moisture from the floor.
- Call in the Professionals - Like SERVPRO of Eaton County
Once the standing water is removed, you should call in the professionals to take a look. Depending on the extent of the damage and how meticulous you want to be, this may include calls to an electrician, a flood cleanup crew, and a general contractor. Fortunately, a single call to our office at 517-541-1170 can handle all of those repairs
Any carpeting or absorbent materials that were affected will need to be ripped up or replaced. If appliances spent any time sitting in the water, they should be looked at by a professional before being used.
- Call Your Insurance Provider
Once all of the time-sensitive issues have been handled, take a few minutes to call your insurance provider to let them know about the problem. If the flooding happened as a result of one of your home’s plumbing systems, then your home insurance policy may cover some or all of the damage. However, if the flooding was the result of a natural disaster, then you’ll most likely need flood insurance. Regardless, place a couple of phone calls to see what can be done.
- Protect Your Home
As soon as everything gets repaired and restored, you should begin taking proactive steps to protect your home from similar issues in the future. The ground next to your basement and foundation should slope away from the home. Gutters and downspouts should slope away too while discharging water a minimum of five feet away from the home. All windows and vents should be sealed and your basement walls should be waterproofed with an appropriate product. If flooding is common, consider installing special French drains or even a sump-pump.
Mold Damage
8/17/2022 (Permalink)
Does your Eaton County home have mold? Of course it does- Even if it's not visible.
Microscopic mold spores naturally occur almost everywhere, both outdoors and indoors. This makes it impossible to remove all mold from a home or business. Therefore, mold remediation reduces the mold spore count back to its natural or baseline level. Some restoration businesses advertise “mold removal” and even guarantee to remove all mold, which is actually impossible.
Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic and float along in the air and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise, the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor and can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
If you notice mold growth in your home, give us a call today at 517-541-1170 and let SERVPRO of Eaton County remediate your mold problem!
Michigan and Water
7/27/2022 (Permalink)
When talking about our wonderful state of Michigan, a few things come to mind.
The many large and beautiful lakes make for awesome boating months in our warm summer season and beautiful blankets of white snow cover the ground in winter creating a wonderland for skiing, sledding and ice fishing. It is safe to say that WATER plays a big part in just about everything we do.
Unfortunately, water also plays the biggest part in Michigan home and business damage every year.
Knowing this, SERVPRO of Eaton County has assembled the area’s leading team in water restoration.
Our professionals provide 24/7 emergency services with quicker response times and our efficiency and communication between the customer and insurance adjusters make us a preferred vendor for many nationwide insurance companies.
The team at SERVPRO of Eaton County has extensive water damage restoration training with an emphasis on monitoring and documenting the drying process until completion.
We proudly serve both residential and commercial properties.
SERVPRO of Eaton County
517-541-1170
What is The Difference Between a CAT I, II, and III Loss?
7/21/2022 (Permalink)
CAT I
A category I loss is when the water is coming from a clean water source and will not cause harm if inhaled or ingested. Examples of this would be a broken supply line or a tub overflow.
CAT II
A category II loss is when the water poses a minimum threat. For example, a toilet overflow with only urine or a dishwasher overflow.
CAT III
A category III loss involves water that is highly contaminated and may contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. For example, water containing silt, pesticides, toxic organic substances, or metals, are all CAT III losses.
SERVPRO Professionals are highly trained for any category of water loss you may have. Our team is ready and available day or night, 24/7.
SERVPRO of Eaton County is Faster to Any Disaster
7/11/2022 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt 24/7 - (517) 541-1170
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious bio-hazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and bio-hazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt
SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Roof Damage
4/30/2022 (Permalink)
Roof damage is always a major concern when big rain or snow storms come through. Usually, the signs are very evident. Water spots on the ceiling, curled shingles, wet walls or winter ice damage are are all very easy ways to determine if your roof is in need of a little TLC.
Missing shingles are always a sure tell sign but you should also pay close attention to any possible damage done to the remaining shingles.
Missing flashing at the edges of the roof, vents and chimneys should also be attended too in order to prevent unwanted water from entering your home during the next storm.
pealing sealant can also cause problems so be sure to look for that as well.
SERVPRO of Eaton County is on call 24/7. We can restore or replace any issues with your roof.
Do not hesitate to give us a call today....
517-541-1170
Emergency Tips
4/11/2022 (Permalink)
Water Damage From Contaminated Water
DO:
-Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
-Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.
DON'T:
-Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
-Turn on the HVAC system if there is still a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
-Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminated areas.
-Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.
Vandalism Damage
DO:
- Hose or wash egg damage from building exterior as soon as possible.
-Vacuum glass particles from carpets and upholstery
- Save containers which reveal the ingredients of spilled inks, cosmetics and paints.
DON'T:
-Attempt to remove ink, paint or cosmetic stains.
- Operate damaged lamps or appliances.
-Discard furniture wood chips, broken pieces from porcelain, furniture or art objects.
Harmful Waste
DO:
- Stay out of affected areas.
- Call emergency service personal if the situation is life-threatening.
- Treat bodily fluids as if they are contaminated.
DON'T:
- Attempt to clean up any kind.
- Touch or handle items that might be contaminated with bodily fluids.
Eaton County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Mitigation & Restoration
5/10/2021 (Permalink)
Flooded basement caused by a recent storm
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Eaton County basement could flood, including:
- A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
- Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
- Storm sewer backup
- Sanitary sewer backup
- Foundation drainage failure
- Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today - 517-541-1170
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Coutnies, Lansing & Holt and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
- We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
- We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
- Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
- Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (517) 541-1170
Faster to your Water Damage Event
5/10/2021 (Permalink)
Calendar of our services!
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Hey..Your toilet is overflowing..
5/10/2021 (Permalink)
"Hey, your toilet is overflowing" is one of the scariest phrases to hear as a homeowner.
Overflowing toilets are every homeowner’s worst nightmare. The mess and odors can be extremely stressful and overwhelming. That is why SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt are here to help!
A toilet overflow usually occurs when a blockage prevents water and waste from flushing down the toilet drain. This backup prevents water and waste from flowing down the drain and causes your toilet to overflow. If it's not cleaned up quickly, it may cause extensive water damage to your bathroom floor or even leak through the ceiling below. Other common causes of overflowing toilets are sewage backups, septic tank issues, low flow toilets and malfunctioning plumbing.
If your home has water damage from toilet overflow, call SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt. We are ready 24/7 - 365
Questions, Call! (517)541-1170
Clogged Gutters
5/6/2021 (Permalink)
Gutter clogged with leaves
As we move into spring, we all notice the melting of snow and welcome the rains. What you may not notice is the fall leaves clogging your gutters. If your gutters get clogged in the fall or with debris from a winter storm, rain water will push back up onto your roof instead of draining away. This can result in water potentially getting in your home through the roof. This can lead to many problems such as mold in an attic or a collapsed ceiling in a room.
There are a couple of things that you can do to prevent these problems. You can start by checking your gutters regularly, in both the Spring and the Fall, to make sure they are clean. You can also invest in gutter guards or screens. These work well to keep the leaves out of your gutters but will still need to be checked.
If you notice any water staining on your ceiling be sure to contact SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt to investigate.
Call us Today at 517-541-1170
Feeling Helpless? Here Are Some Things You Can Do
3/5/2021 (Permalink)
If you are feeling helpless, don't wait! CALL!
When a flood occurs inside a home, most homeowners want to jump right in and start the cleanup themselves, and others have no idea what to do. If you are feeling helpless and want to start the cleanup before SERVPRO arrives here are some things to consider.
Safety is your top priority. Ask yourself these questions.
- Is the structure of the building compromised?
- Is there any electrical that has become a hazard?
- Are you confident in your abilities to do your own cleanup safely?
- Are there any contaminants in the water?
DO
- Eliminate remaining water.
- Prop wet upholstery and cushions.
- Wipe down furniture.
DON'T
- Use electricity such as TV.
- Stay in rooms where the structure is compromised.
- Use a vacuum to remove water.
If you are feeling the need to do some work we hope you consider the things listed above. We also hope you choose SERVPRO to complete the process for you!
SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton & Gratiot Counties and Lansing & Holt's number is...
(517) 541-1170
3 Threats Associated With Standing Floodwaters | SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt
1/7/2021 (Permalink)
If you experience any storm damage, contact SERVPRO of ECGLH. Our goal is to help make it "Like it never even happened."
3 Surprising Threats Associated With Standing Floodwaters
A flood can be one of the most devastating natural disasters you will experience during your lifetime. Floodwaters have the potential to completely devastate any area they pass through. At their worst, floods can lift homes off their foundations and crash through walls. Even a small flood can cause damage to your home by saturating your flooring and wall materials with water.
All homeowners need to be aware of the dangers that floodwaters pose so that they can take action to protect themselves in the aftermath of a flood. Standing floodwaters come with a variety of damages and threats. Learn about three surprising threats you should be mindful of as you assess the damage to your home following a flood.
- Electrocution
One of the deadliest risks associated with floodwaters is electrocution. Water is a powerful electrical conductor. When floodwaters come into contact with any electrical outlets or wires inside your home, the water has the potential to become electrically charged.
If you step into a pool of this standing floodwater or any exposed part of your body comes into contact with the water, the electrical charge stored in the water could pass through your body and cause serious harm.
Utility companies will typically shut down the electrical grid in any areas affected by a flood, but you should never assume that there is no electrical power to your home. Only a restoration professional with advanced training should enter your home to verify that the power is off at the breaker box and no electricity is circulating through your home.
- Explosions
If your home is equipped with any appliances that rely on natural gas as a power source, the risk of explosion is present after a flood. Floodwaters can dislodge the pipes that feed natural gas into your home. This creates gas leaks that can trap a buildup of gas inside your residence.
The smallest spark could cause the gas to explode, causing further damage to your home and putting the life of anyone inside the residence at risk. Experienced restoration professionals can detect gas leaks before they begin working to clean up the mess left behind by a flood.
You can take the necessary precautions to address the gas leak, allowing you to maximize your safety after floodwaters recede. Never enter your flooded home if the possibility of a gas leak is present.
- Disease
Another serious risk associated with floodwaters is disease. The transmission of many communicable diseases can be facilitated by standing floodwaters. Some of these diseases include cholera, typhoid fever, malaria, and West Nile virus.
The water that floods your home during a natural disaster can also become contaminated with raw sewage. Bacteria and other pathogens thrive in the standing water, which makes your flooded home a serious health hazard.
Because of these potential diseases, it's important that you don't come into contact with floodwaters without the proper safety gear. A company that specializes in restoring residential properties following a flood will have the experience and products needed to eliminate the threat of flood-related disease from your home.
A restoration specialist can use powerful chemicals that will disinfect and sanitize all of the surfaces within your home once the flood water has been removed. These same chemicals can also prevent mold growth in your home.
Floods are inherently dangerous, but the dangers don't stop once the active flooding subsides. Standing floodwater in your home can increase the risk of electrocution, explosions, and disease transmission following a flood.
Contact SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot counties, Lansing & Holt to handle your restoration needs after a flood so that you can avoid any associated dangers created by standing floodwaters.
What to Expect During Water Damage Restoration | SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt
1/7/2021 (Permalink)
A water disaster can create issues that you may not be aware of. If you experience water damage of any kind, give SERVPRO ECGLH a call (517)541-1170
What to Expect During Water Damage Restoration
Whether you have a leak in the basement, water in the attic, or a burst pipe in your wall, water can lead to one of the more stressful types of damages you will have to deal with as a homeowner. You can alleviate some of the stress by knowing what to expect during the water damage repair process so you can prepare accordingly.
Address the Cause
It does little good to repair damages if they will simply occur again. Generally, a broken pipe or leaking foundation will lead to water in the basement, whereas water in the attic is generally from roof damage or poor ventilation. Water elsewhere in the home is most likely from a plumbing leak. HVAC systems can also develop condensation along the ducts, which can lead to water damage in the ceiling.
Once you know the cause, you can contact a plumber, roofer, or another suitable contractor to fix the leak and stop the flow of water.
Pro Tip:
If you can't find the leak and you aren't sure who to call, contact a water damage restoration company. They may offer leak detection services or be able to refer you to one of these professionals.
Assess the Damage
Water damage can go much further than just what you see. Even after the surface moisture dries, wet conditions can persist out of sight. Mold may also have taken hold in hidden areas. Stains, warped materials, and damage to carpets and furniture can also be present. The restoration technician has a variety of tools at their disposal to accurately assess the extent of the damage.
Pro Tip:
Don't attempt to do any sort of assessment or cleanup on your own if you suspect that the water is contaminated. Leaks from exterior flooding or a broken septic line are the most likely sources of contamination.
Dry Out the Home
Before restoration can progress, all of the moisture has to be removed. The technicians will pump out any standing water that is still present, and then they will use water extractors and large industrial fans to speed up the drying process. If the relative humidity is high, portable dehumidifiers may also be used.
Pro Tip:
Don't delay drying out the home. Mold can begin growing in as little as 48 hours, so call the water damage service immediately so that the drying process can commence.
Clean Up the Damage
Cleanup techniques depend on the type and extent of the damage. Technicians will remove wet objects, including furniture, personal effects, and carpeting, to a dry location. Things that can't be repaired, such as sodden wallboards, will be removed and disposed of. The technicians may also take apart some items, such as baseboards, so that they can be dried thoroughly.
The cleanup stage is also when deeper cleaning is addressed, such as mold removal and hazardous waste sanitation. Often, this is the most time-consuming restoration stage.
Pro Tip:
If you can safely enter the wet area, you might be able to rescue papers, books, and photographs in advance of the restoration crew. Place these items in sealed plastic bags and store them in a frost-free freezer. The freezer prevents mold and deterioration until the damage techs can dry out the paper.
Repair and Restore
The final stage is the repair stage. Wallboards are patched or replaced, ceilings are repaired and repainted, and the carpeting is either thoroughly cleaned or replaced entirely. Woodwork may require sanding and refinishing if a replacement isn't necessary.
Restoration also applies to your personal belongings, including furniture. The technicians will focus on repairing everything that they can so that there will be minimal replacements necessary.
Pro Tip:
If you are on the fence about keeping your carpet, then consider these basic rules. If the carpet was exposed to contaminated water, have it replaced. Further, if it took longer than 48 hours to find and address the water damage, consider replacement of the pad and a professional biocide treatment of the carpeting.
Contact SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt to discuss your water damage restoration needs today.
Outdoor Faucets
1/4/2021 (Permalink)
Outdoor faucets can freeze and break during the winter without you knowing
One of the leading causes of water damage in the Spring, aside from the weather of course, is outdoor faucets.
CHECK FOR LEAKS
The best way to check for leaks, is to have one person stand outside to turn the water on, and have a second person observe the pipe inside the home.
IF YOU NOTICE A LEAK
Be sure to turn the water off at the outdoor faucet, as well as your indoor water mane, and call a plumber.
The pipes leading to your outdoor faucets can freeze and burst in the winter but, because the water is off, you won't notice these breaks until the spring. If you discover a burst pipe, or a leak that has gotten out of hand, we are available 24/7 to take your call.
SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt (517) 541-1170
Surprise Water Damage in Winter
1/4/2021 (Permalink)
This Eaton County home had a pipe break witch caused the basement to completely fill with water
Winters in Michigan can be brutal and many in the area like to vacation to warm weather or even fly south for the whole winter. If you fit into this category, it is very important to make sure your Mid-Michigan home is ready to withstand the weather you are leaving behind.
-You should make sure your furnace is in good working order before you leave. Have it inspected by a professional and change the filters
-Make sure you shut off the water to the house- if for some reason the furnace fails, your pipes could freeze and burst. The water being off will prevent water from continuously running and damaging your home until you return.
-Have your home winterized. You can do this yourself or hire a plumber. If there is no water in the pipes to freeze, they wont freeze and burst.
-If you are going to be gone for an extended period of time ask a friend or family member to check on your home frequently while you are gone. This way you can catch and potential problems.
If you find any water damage in your home this winter be sure to call SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt at (517)541-1170
Trust your nose! Identifying water damage before it's visible
11/23/2020 (Permalink)
Mold growth from a slow leak behind the dishwasher
You can’t always see water damage, but you can almost always smell it. Most water damage odors are hard to ignore and alert you that there is damage in your home. Odors from water damage can be noticeable immediately or can occur sometime after the water is removed. Here are some common odors:
Muddy smell: If outdoor flooding has entered the home, you may notice an earthy smell associated with lakes.
Sewage smell: If water damage in your home is a result of a backed-up sewer, you will immediately notice the odor of raw sewage.
Musty odors: Musty odors occur after the fact. This is a sign that mold is growing in your home.
The sooner you notice the problem, the sooner we can help. A highly trained SERVPRO professional can access the degree of your damages.
The assigned crew will identify the source and type of water, which determines the proper course of action. Our drying equipment controls temperature and humidity, minimizing secondary damage.
To get rid of the odor in your home, our trained and certified professionals will find the source of the odor and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate the odor from your home.
If mold is growing in your home, we will work to control and remove mold contaminants.
If you suspect water damage in your Eaton County, Clinton or Gratiot, Lansing or Holt home or business, call SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt at 517-541-1170
Water Damage? Four Things You Should Do Right Away
11/23/2020 (Permalink)
if you experience any water damage or are in need repairs down after a storm, contact SERVPRO of ECGLH
Water damage in a home is usually caused by leaking pipes, malfunctioning appliances, sewage backups, heavy rains, or flooding. No matter how a home sustains water damage, it is certain to cause plenty of frustration for the homeowner.
Even in cases of extensive water damage, it's important for homeowners to realize that a water damaged home can be repaired and restored.
If you have water damage to your home, here are four things you should do right away.
1. Stay Safe
Your safety is of utmost importance. This is why you should take certain precautions when dealing with water damage in your home. If your home is flooded, you may want to wear protective gloves or a mask to optimize safety.
If you have standing water in your home and notice the smell of gas, you should leave right away. The smell of gas could indicate a gas leak, which might result in an explosion. You should also be aware of the dangers of being electrocuted. Be careful when handling electrical appliances or gadgets. If you notice damaged electrical wires, you should leave.
2. Assess the Water Damage
If your home poses no immediate dangers, you can start to assess the damage. Knowing what kind of water damage your home and personal belongings have sustained helps your insurance adjuster process your claim.
Look for signs of external damage, which includes the roof, exterior walls, and your front and backyard. You will also want to assess the interior damage. Pay particular attention to the attic, walls and ceiling of each room, and the foundation of your basement.
Closely inspect all your personal belongings, as well. This includes:
Appliances
Furniture
Cabinets/dressers
Carpets
Paper products including books and photographs
Electronics and digital media
Some of your personal belongings will be damaged beyond repair. You will need to decide what things to get rid of and what things can be repaired. Any contaminated food should be thrown out immediately. This includes canned goods that were immersed in water.
3. Start Drying Out
If possible, you should start drying out your home as soon as you can. Starting the drying process helps to decrease the amount and severity of the water damage. You should begin by removing any standing water. You can do this by using a wet/dry vacuum. You can also push water out the door with a floor squeegee. Using a mop is a tried and true option as well.
If you have a lot of standing water, especially in the cases of flooding, the water could be polluted. For this reason, you may need to call professional water extractors. Once all the water has been removed, you should begin the drying out process.
Some ways to do dry out your home include:
Air drying. This can be done by opening doors and windows and using floor fans and exhaust fans.
Dehumidifying. Using a dehumidifier removes hidden moisture and decreases humidity levels, which helps to dry out faster.
Freezer drying and vacuum freeze drying. These drying methods use freezing temperatures to dry out books and other paper products.
Removing moisture from your home and your belongings will reduce the chances of bacterial and mold growth.
4. Begin Cleaning
Once your home has been dried out, you should clean and sanitize the places in your home that have gotten wet. This includes cleaning and sanitizing your floors and walls. If your home's flooring or walls are damaged beyond repair, you will most likely have to replace them.
If your home has received extensive water damage, contact SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt. We're a professional water damage repair and restoration company. Besides assisting homeowners with drying out their home, they also help clean the home and detect hidden moisture.
How SERVPRO Ranks Your Water Damage
10/26/2020 (Permalink)
IICRC Classes of Water Damage
The ANSI/IICRC S500 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration is the gold-standard for the cleaning and restoration industry. It presents practical guidelines and procedures based on science and extensive experience.
Let's cover the degrees of leaks, spills, and water intrusions and their potential for damage. The IICRC divides them into four “classes.” It doesn’t giving any specific amounts of water, as many other variables go into determining the proper water restoration measures.
Class 1
This class involves the least amount of water. It’s defined as affecting only part of a single room, with minimal wet carpet and affecting only low-permeable materials such as plywood and concrete sub-flooring. Resulting from things such a roof leak and rowdy kids in the bath tub, there’s minimal absorption and little moisture remaining after bulk water removal. So after mopping and blotting a natural slow rate of evaporation may be acceptable. Lifting carpet speeds drying and lets you determine if the sub-floor is excessively damp.
Class 2
Here there’s more water, and more gets absorbed by building materials. It’s defined as affecting an entire room or resulting in large areas of wet carpet, with water wicking upwards in walls at least 1 foot (but less than 2 feet) and moisture reaching structural materials. Class 2 water intrusions require bulk water removal, surface water extraction, and dehumidification for faster evaporation.
Class 3
With the most water and greatest absorption involved, Class 3 water restoration requires the fastest evaporation to head off deterioration. It’s defined as having flooring, sub-flooring, walls, and insulation saturated. With a source above the ceiling, that may be saturated as well. Advanced drying and dehumification methods via specialized equipment are critical.
Class 4
This last class is a special situation, typically the result of heavy natural flooding. There’s been enough water and time to saturate materials such as stone, concrete, brick, and hardwood. Highly aggressive methods to maintain very low specific humidity for longer periods than usual are required. Or the affected rooms may be considered a total loss if the structure has been severely compromised.
If you have water damage in your Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot County, Lansing & Holt home or business, call the highly trained professionals of SERVPRO at 517-541-1170
The Bath-Shroom
9/30/2020 (Permalink)
He looks like a fungi (get it), but not someone you want hanging out in your bathroom.
Ladies & Gentlemen, I present to you, the not-as-uncommon-as-you-might-think...
"Bath-Shroom."
Humidity and heat create suitable growing conditions for fungi in bathrooms. Mushrooms that sprout up in your bathroom are a cause for concern. Even though many mushrooms are harmless on their own, the presence of mushrooms indoors is indicative of a significant moisture problem that may lead to more serious mold infestations.
If you notice a "Bath-Shroom," or any of its relatives (Living-Shroom, Bed-Shroom, Dining-Shroom, Kitchin-Shroom etc.), Give us a call. Our highly trained and professional staff can help you to identify the underlying problem, and fix the damage it has caused.
ATTENTION HOMEOWNERS: Emergency Tips for Water Loss
9/25/2020 (Permalink)
Living Room Water Loss
When you have a water loss in your home, it's easy to want to take action before help arrives. It's good to know what to do, and what to avoid doing before a SERVPRO professional arrives. Here are some helpful hints to get you through the first couple hours of your water loss.
What to do:
* If safely accessible, shut off water source.
* Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
* Remove and prop up upholstery cushions for even drying.
* Place aluminum foil under all furniture legs to minimize stains.
* Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
* Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
* Keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
What NOT to do:
* Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.
* Do not use ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet.
* Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpeting.
* Do not move affected furniture or expensive paintings to a non-affected area.
Remember: These tips are for clean water situations only, and should not be applied to sewage backups or any other dirty water losses. Proper emergency response to a loss significantly reduces further damage and replacement costs. Let a trained and certified crew from SERVPRO of Eaton County Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt help make it "Like it never even happened."
Hey, your toilet is overflowing...
5/28/2020 (Permalink)
"Hey, your toilet is overflowing" is one of the scariest phrases to hear as a homeowner.
Overflowing toilets are every homeowner’s worst nightmare. The mess and odors can be extremely stressful and overwhelming. That is why SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt are here to help!
A toilet overflow usually occurs when a blockage prevents water and waste from flushing down the toilet drain. This backup prevents water and waste from flowing down the drain and causes your toilet to overflow. If it's not cleaned up quickly, it may cause extensive water damage to your bathroom floor or even leak through the ceiling below. Other common causes of overflowing toilets are sewage backups, septic tank issues, low flow toilets and malfunctioning plumbing.
If your home has water damage from toilet overflow, call SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt. We are ready 24/7 - 365
??(517)541-1170
Faster to your Water Damage Event
5/20/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of ECGLH provides 24/7 Water Mitigation and Restoration services 365 days of the year.
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
Need Emergency Service? Call SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt 24/7 - (517) 541-1170
Water Damage Timeline
Within Minutes
- Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
- Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
- Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
- Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
- Drywall begins to swell and break down.
- Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
- Furniture begins to swell and crack.
- Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
- A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
- Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
- Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
- Metal begins to rust and corrode.
- Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
- Paint begins to blister.
- Wood flooring swells and warps.
- Serious bio-hazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
- Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
- Structural safety, mold growth, and bio-hazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
About SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt
SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot County, Lansing & Holt - 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Services
5/20/2020 (Permalink)
This Lansing home flooded while the residents were out of town
SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot County, Lansing & Holt is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today -(517) 541-1170
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
- Your name and contact information
- Your insurance information (if applicable)
- The street address of the water-damaged home or business
- When did the flooding or water damage occur?
- What caused the water damage (if known)?
- Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt
SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Eaton County Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Mitigation & Restoration
5/20/2020 (Permalink)
This Eaton County home and residential area flooded due to heavy rain
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Eaton County basement could flood, including:
- A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
- Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
- Storm sewer backup
- Sanitary sewer backup
- Foundation drainage failure
- Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today - 517-541-1170
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Coutnies, Lansing & Holt and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
- We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
- We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
- Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
- Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (517) 541-1170
Clogged Gutters
3/31/2020 (Permalink)
Although beautiful, fall leaves can cause issues with your gutter's effectiveness, causing water damage.
As we move into spring, we all notice the melting of snow and welcome the rains. What you may not notice is the fall leaves clogging your gutters. If your gutters get clogged in the fall or with debris from a winter storm, rain water will push back up onto your roof instead of draining away. This can result in water potentially getting in your home through the roof. This can lead to many problems such as mold in an attic or a collapsed ceiling in a room.
There are a couple of things that you can do to prevent these problems. You can start by checking your gutters regularly, in both the Spring and the Fall, to make sure they are clean. You can also invest in gutter guards or screens. These work well to keep the leaves out of your gutters but will still need to be checked.
If you notice any water staining on your ceiling be sure to contact SERVPRO of Eaton County, Clinton and Gratiot Counties, Lansing & Holt to investigate.
Call us Today at 517-541-1170
24/7 Emergency Service