Protect Your Home: Understanding the Leading Causes of Residential Water Damage and How SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson Can Help

4/25/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can have devastating consequences for homeowners, leading to structural issues, mold growth, and expensive repairs. Understanding the primary causes of residential water damage and taking proactive measures to prevent them is crucial in safeguarding your home. While preventative maintenance falls under the responsibility of homeowners, SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can assist in mitigating and restoring your home in the event of water damage. In this article, we will explore the top causes of residential water damage and how SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can provide professional restoration services when disasters occur.

1. Plumbing Failures:

Faulty pipes, leaking fittings, and burst water lines are common causes of residential water damage. Homeowners are responsible for hiring licensed plumbers to conduct regular inspections and address any issues promptly. If water damage does occur, SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can assist in the mitigation and restoration process, employing specialized techniques and equipment to restore your home to its pre-damaged condition.

2. Appliance Malfunctions:

Homeowners should schedule routine maintenance checks for appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters to detect and address potential malfunctions. In the unfortunate event of water damage caused by appliance failure, SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can provide professional water extraction, drying, and restoration services.

3. Roof Leaks:

Homeowners should periodically inspect their roofs for damage and promptly hire qualified roofers for repairs or replacements as needed. In case of water damage resulting from roof leaks, SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can assist in drying out the affected areas, mitigating further damage, and restoring your home.

4. Foundation Issues:

Homeowners are responsible for identifying and addressing any cracks or vulnerabilities in their foundations. Implementing proper waterproofing measures, such as sealants and drainage systems, can help prevent water damage. If water intrusion does occur, SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can provide professional mitigation and restoration services.

5. Natural Disasters:

While homeowners cannot prevent natural disasters, they can take measures to minimize potential water damage, such as installing flood barriers and maintaining proper drainage systems. In the event of water damage caused by natural disasters, SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can respond quickly with emergency water extraction, drying, and restoration services.

Homeowners have the primary responsibility of ensuring preventative maintenance to minimize the risk of water damage. By hiring qualified professionals for inspections, repairs, and maintenance, homeowners can reduce the likelihood of water-related incidents. In the unfortunate event of water damage, SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can provide expert mitigation and restoration services to help restore your home. Remember, proactive measures taken by homeowners combined with the professional assistance of SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can significantly reduce the impact of water damage on your property.

Navigating the Path: Understanding the Insurance Claims Process for Water and Fire Damage Restoration with SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson's

4/25/2024 (Permalink)

Dealing with the aftermath of water or fire damage can be overwhelming, both emotionally and financially. Understanding the insurance claims process is crucial for homeowners seeking reimbursement for the restoration and repairs. SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson, a trusted water and fire damage restoration company, can provide valuable support throughout the insurance claims process. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of the insurance claims process for water and fire damage restoration and how SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can assist you every step of the way.

1. Prompt Reporting and Documentation:

Immediately after the incident, contact your insurance provider to report the damage. SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can work alongside you, providing detailed documentation of the damage, including photographs, inventory lists, and written reports. Their expertise ensures accurate and comprehensive documentation for your insurance claim.

2. Insurance Policy Review:

Understanding the terms and coverage of your insurance policy is essential. SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can review your policy, helping you understand the scope of coverage and any specific requirements or limitations that may apply to your water or fire damage restoration claim.

3. Professional Assessment and Estimates:

SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can conduct a professional assessment of the damage and provide detailed estimates for the necessary restoration and repairs. These estimates can serve as vital documentation for your insurance claim, ensuring accurate reimbursement for the incurred expenses.

4. Effective Communication with Insurance Adjusters:

SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can serve as your advocate during the insurance claims process. They can communicate directly with the insurance adjusters, providing necessary information, supporting documentation, and addressing any concerns or questions that may arise, streamlining the claims process for you.

5. Timely Completion of Restoration:

SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson understands the importance of swift and efficient restoration to minimize further damage and disruption to your daily life. Their experienced technicians work diligently to complete the restoration process promptly, allowing you to submit the necessary documentation and close your insurance claim promptly.

6. Supplemental Claim Assistance:

In some cases, additional damage may be discovered during the restoration process that was not initially identified. SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson can assist you in documenting and filing supplemental claims to ensure that all necessary repairs and restoration work are covered by your insurance provider.

7. Restoration Excellence:

SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson's commitment to providing high-quality restoration services ensures that your property is restored to its pre-damage condition. Their expertise and attention to detail can help support your insurance claim by providing evidence of the thoroughness and quality of the restoration work performed.

Understanding the insurance claims process for water and fire damage restoration is essential for homeowners seeking financial reimbursement. With the support of SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson, you can navigate the complexities of the claims process with confidence. From prompt reporting and documentation to professional assessments, effective communication with insurance adjusters, and timely restoration, SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson is your trusted partner throughout the insurance claims journey. By leveraging their expertise and support, you can ensure a smooth and successful insurance claims process, allowing you to focus on restoring and rebuilding your home with peace of mind.

2 Reasons To Call a Restoration Company After a Flood

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Fixing Broken Pipes

Bursting pipes can cause an incredible amount of damage in Galveston, TX. Such damage can be extremely expensive, as you may need to completely rip out and restore large areas of your home. Even a single broken pipe can ruin nearly an entire room, and possible secondary damage can be even more devastating than obvious ruin from the water. When you need to fix a broken pipe and repair extensive damage, calling a qualified restoration company is usually the best idea.

Water Damage

Because most pipes are kept in hidden locations, you may not discover a broken pipe until extensive damage has already been done. Even small amounts of water left unattended can damage the following areas of your home:

• Sheetrock
• Baseboard
• Hardwood floors
• Carpet
• Rugs
• Insulation
  

Water damage may cause sheetrock to weaken and can even ruin insulation, resulting in expensive, time-consuming repairs. Expensive wood floors can be completely ruined when water soaks into the grain, causing floorboards to buckle and bow. The longer water stands unattended, the more damage it can do, so calling a restoration company immediately is usually the best way to minimize the problem.

Secondary Damage

While a lot of water damage is visible upon first inspection, you should investigate further to find any secondary damage that may have happened. Bursting pipes can cause many types of hidden damage, including:

• Mold
• Mildew
• Bacteria
  

Mold, mildew and bacteria grow best in warm, dark environments, so if a broken pipe is not detected quickly, the fungus could spread rapidly until it is out of control. Household cleaners may not be strong enough to get rid of existing mold and mildew, so it is a good idea to leave the treatment to a restoration company.

While many people may be able to fix a broken pipe, cleaning up water damage should usually be left to a professional. With the help of a restoration company, dealing with bursting pipes in Galveston Island or Lake Jackson, TX can be a quick and manageable process.

Repairing Broken Pipes Quickly Prevent Water Damage No matter how many precautions you take, sometimes it’s not possible to prevent bursting pipes. A

8/11/2022 (Permalink)

Prevent Water Damage

No matter how many precautions you take, sometimes it’s not possible to prevent bursting pipes. After prevention, the best thing you can do is react quickly to start repairs when it’s time to fix a broken pipe. The faster you act, the more you can prevent water damage in Galveston, TX.

Limit the Mold, Limit the Damage

When a pipe bursts, the first thing you need to do after checking with the insurance company is fixing the broken pipe. Once the hole is plugged or the broken pipe replaced, you can begin cleaning up the water and repairing the damage with these steps:

• Call a professional to assess the damage
• Remove standing water and remove any items that are saturated
• Clean items that can be salvaged
• Throw away items that are dangerous to use or consume
  

The faster you remove the water and the wet items, the more water damage in Galveston, TX  you can prevent. This also limits the amount of mold growth you’ll experience, making your home safer and cleaner after the repair.

What To Keep, What To Throw Away

Unless you have black water flooding into your home, you should be able to clean most of your items and return them to use. Clothing or other cloth and canvas items need to be washed or dry cleaned. Floors should be sanitized and carpets cleaned. Any food or medical supplies should be thrown away and replaced. If you have black water in your home, you should throw away anything porous that was exposed, as those items can become breeding grounds for bacteria.

If you have water damage from a burst pipe in Galveston, TX, the faster you move, the more damage you’ll be able to prevent. Getting your home and valuables cleaned, repaired or replaced as quickly as possible makes it easier to get back into all areas of your home quickly and safely

What is Clean Water Damage?

8/2/2022 (Permalink)

There may be instances when the water that has encroached upon your home is “clean.” When a pipe bursts or an appliance malfunctions, or there is a leak in your roof that allows falling rain water to enter your home, oftentimes the water will be deemed “clean.” This is perhaps the easiest type of water damage to handle, since there will not be too many microbes living in the water. The biggest hazard clean water presents are if the area that has been damaged is not properly cleaned and dried. This can result in mold and fungus growth. If the water has been standing in your home fore over twenty-four hours, it is advisable for you to contact an emergency restoration service, such as SERVPRO of Galveston/Lake Jackson, to ensure that the water is dried thoroughly. This is especially important when the area affected is easily saturated, such as carpets or drywall.

THINGS THAT INFLUENCE THE COST OF A WATER DAMAGE

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

THINGS THAT INFLUENCE THE COST OF A WATER DAMAGE

Water damage continues even after the flood water is gone, unlike the kind of damage caused by wind or impact that’s why it has to be addressed as soon as possible. If your home is damaged by water, here are three factors that may impact the cost of damage repair.

1. Square footage

It will take more time, materials and labor to fix a large space, compared to a small bedroom. Drying time is particular importance here, as bigger room will take longer to dehumidify.

1. Type of Water

The type of water in your home can drastically affect the cost of repairs. For example, if the water in the area appears murky in color, this could indicate that the water is contaminated. Contaminated water is more difficult to clean due to potentially hazardous materials within the water, whereas water that is clear can cleaned with fewer safety precautions.

1. Damaged Building Materials

Some materials require more restoration work than others. Water damaged hardwood floors are often easier and take much less time to repair compared to carpets. The cost of replacement materials, as well as whether restoration requires an exact match can also be a factor.

If your house has experienced flooding, it’s essential to seek out help from a company that specializes in water damage cleanup in order to get an accurate estimate of the cost and to identify long term solutions.

For water damage restoration and cleanup services, please call SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson at (409) 762-4411

Old Water damage VS New Water Damage

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Old Water damage VS New Water Damage

Water damage is a nightmare for any homeowners. It is known to be the most common form of property damage because of the numerous ways that it can happen. It can happen everywhere. No matter how strong of cement your building or property has used in process, water damage can make anything and everything look bad.

Water damage restoration experts understand the issues that water damage presents, especially when it isn’t in your sight. When discovered, water spots are clues that indicate a leaky pipe or condensation that is generating the problem. Even though it impossible to know exactly how long your water damage issues have lingered, here are steps you can take if your water damage is old or new.

1. Review the house’s history

The first step of determining how old water spots are figuring out if your property has recently experienced any damage. When was the last time your home went through any storms or flooding? It is important to understand what is new and what is old because smaller leaks can take months to appear.

1. Touch the water spot

Newer water spots will be wet and yet when you touch them, you will be able to feel that your drywall or ceiling is strong. Water damage drywall or water damage ceiling spot will be mushy and squishy because material have soaked up a fair amount of water.

1. Inspect your home’s building materials

It is important to know what materials your walls and ceilings are composed of because thick paint or tiles trap water more easily than thin ones. Small water spot can indicate extensive damage.

We at SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson, we can fix drywall water damage. For all your water damage restoration needs, get in touch with us. When there’s a leak that you cannot detect, it is crucial to contact an expert like us. Call us at (409) 762-4411.

WATER DAMAGE AND FLOOD DAMAGE IS THERE A DIFFERENCE?

7/18/2022 (Permalink)

Broken pipes, overflowing bathtubs, busted toilets, burst water main, damaged washing machine hoses and flash floods. There are many ways water can cause expensive damage to your home. When the damage happens, your first step is to determine whether you have a water insurance claim or a flood claim.

How does flood damage differ from other types of water damage?

Most insurance companies define flood water as water that has come from a rising and overflowing of a body of water onto dry land. The term “rising’’ is key here, covering water that comes from overflowing river or sea, for example but not from a leaky pipe or sink. Flood damage can only be caused by the following:

• Overflow of inland or tidal waters
• Rapid accumulate of surface waters from any source
• Mudflow
• Collapse of land along the shore of a lake or similar body of water as a result of erosion

Water damage is much broader and essentially covers every other instance of water ingress that does not involve rising water. It is usually caused by problems within the building itself such as a leaky roof or a broken washing machine. It is important to perform regular maintenance on your home or building to prevent water damage that could otherwise be easily avoided.

• A pipe burst
• A backroom sink overflows
• Water intrusion from a leaking roof cause wood rot and mold

Anytime there’s a hurricane, storm, heavy rain or more, your insurance won’t cover it. You have to purchase an extra flood insurance plan for those instances.

Water damage is usually covered under homeowner’s insurance policy. Some water damage examples include severe rains that soak through your roof, a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet or a storm that breaks your windows and allows water inside.

SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson professionals have years of experience when it comes to water damage restoration. We know what to look for to identify the full extent of the damage. They have proper equipment and knowledge to handle tasks. From water damage to commercial restoration, we have qualified trained professionals who are ready to respond. You can assure your property is in the best hands.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Galveston Island/Lake Jackson at (409) 762-4411

Black Water. What is it?

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

Sewage Damage resulting in Black Water.

The most hazardous of the three types of water damage, “black” water is usually a result of natural disasters or sewage damage. Example of Black water is water that comes from toilet overflows, sewage back-ups, rising flood water from rivers and streams as well as septic systems. Black water can include toxic materials such as bacterial diseases, chemicals, pesticides, microbes and more. If your home has suffered this type of damage, it is best to let a qualified professional begin the disinfecting process before you attempt to handle the damage on your own. They have the proper equipment and safety precautions in place to restore your home safely and thoroughly. You put yourself at risk if you are not careful with black water.

It is important to note that “gray” and “black” water are not necessarily the colors of the water that you will see in your home. They are simply terms that denote the level of contamination. If you experience a flood from a heavy rain, the water may look “clean,” but if there is any ground water that has backed up into your home as a result, there may be invisible microbes lurking in the water. This is why it is recommended that you allow a professional restoration service to assess and fix any water damage to your home. Better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your physical health, as well as the structure of your home.

Water Damage can Result in Mold Only 24-48 Later

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

It is extremely important to have a reputable company like SERVPRO of Galveston Island / Lake Jackson handle water damage, as the threat of potentially hazardous mold can develop as soon as 24-48 hours after the original water damage. 

When a water loss occurs, humidity levels are high. The team at SERVPRO of Galveston Island / Lake Jackson uses specialized equipment like dehumidifiers to dry properties and reduce the humidity levels. This is an extremely important part of cleanup after water damage. 

Normal drying methods are simply not enough to reduce the humidity levels in a home after a major water loss. Mold is able to grow behind cabinets, walls and under flooring quickly, so the threat has to be handled by professionals who know how to properly dry flooring, walls, and other fixtures in the property. 

What is "Grey" Water Damage?

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage from an Overflow

Gray water is water that is slightly contaminated, either because of the nature of the source or because of neglect. For example, clean water can become “gray” water if it is left untreated for an extended period time. When a toilet or washing machine overflows, the resulting water would be considered gray because of its source. Any type of water that has been used or in any way contaminated is hazardous because of the microbes that may be present. If you want to begin the cleaning and drying process before the restoration service arrives, Keep anyone with allergies, asthma or a compromised immune system away from grey water flood damage. If you opt to begin cleaning after the washing machine flooded the basement, take safety precautions by wearing protective gear such as non-porous rubber gloves, shoe covers/boots, long pants, long sleeves, safety glasses and even a mask. in order to prevent your skin from touching the water so you do not spread any microbes.

What is Clean Water Damage?

7/7/2021 (Permalink)

There may be instances when the water that has encroached upon your home is “clean.” When a pipe bursts or an appliance malfunctions, or there is a leak in your roof that allows falling rain water to enter your home, oftentimes the water will be deemed “clean.” This is perhaps the easiest type of water damage to handle, since there will not be too many microbes living in the water. The biggest hazard clean water presents are if the area that has been damaged is not properly cleaned and dried. This can result in mold and fungus growth. If the water has been standing in your home fore over twenty-four hours, it is advisable for you to contact an emergency restoration service, such as SERVPRO of Galveston/Lake Jackson, to ensure that the water is dried thoroughly. This is especially important when the area affected is easily saturated, such as carpets or drywall.

Ten Tips for Homeowners on the Care of Water-Damaged Family Heirlooms and Other Valuables

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

If the object is still wet, rinse with clear water or a fine hose spray. Clean off dry silt and debris from your belongings with soft brushes or dab with damp cloths. Try not to grind debris into objects; overly energetic cleaning will cause scratching. Dry with a clean, soft cloth. Use plastic or rubber gloves for your own protection.

Air dry objects indoors if possible. Sunlight and heat may dry certain materials too quickly, causing splits, warping, and buckling. If possible, remove contents from wet objects and furniture prior to drying. Storing damp items in sealed plastic bags will cause mold to develop. If objects are to be transported in plastic bags, keep bags open and air circulating.

The best way to inhibit the growth of mold and mildew is to reduce humidity. Increase airflow with fans, open windows, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers. Moderate light exposure (open shades, leave basement lights on) can also reduce mold and mildew.

Remove heavy deposits of mold growth from walls, baseboards, floors, and other household surfaces with commercially available disinfectants. Avoid the use of disinfectants on historic wallpapers. Follow manufacturers' instructions, but avoid splattering or contact with objects and wallpapers as disinfectants may damage objects.

If objects are broken or begin to fall apart, place all broken pieces, bits of veneer, and detached parts in clearly labeled, open containers. Do not attempt to repair objects until completely dry or, in the case of important materials, until you have consulted with a professional conservator.

Documents, books, photographs, and works of art on paper may be extremely fragile when wet; use caution when handling. Free the edges of prints and paper objects in mats and frames, if possible. These should be allowed to air dry. Rinse mud off wet photographs with clear water, but do not touch surfaces. Sodden books and papers should also be air dried or kept in a refrigerator or freezer until a professional conservator can treat them.

Textiles, leather, and other "organic" materials will also be severely affected by exposure to water and should be allowed to air dry. Shaped objects, such as garments or baskets, should be supported by gently padding with toweling or uninked, uncoated paper. Renew padding when it becomes saturated with water. Dry-clean or launder textiles and carpets as you normally would.

Remove wet paintings from the frame, but not the stretcher. Air dry, face up, away from direct sunlight.

Furniture finishes and painting surfaces may develop a white haze or bloom from contact with water and humidity. These problems do not require immediate attention; consult a professional conservator for treatment.

Rinse metal objects exposed to flood waters, mud, or silt with clear water and dry immediately with a clean, soft cloth. Allow heavy mud deposits on large metal objects, such as sculpture, to dry. Caked mud can be removed later.  

Black Water Damage

7/6/2021 (Permalink)

Example of Black Water Damage.

This category of water is grossly contaminated and may be highly toxic to you and your family. Called Black Water, it may contain raw sewage, pesticides, heavy metals or toxic organic substances.

Unlike the Grey Water damage category, Black Water will have a foul smell and likely contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents.

Class of Water is determined by the probable rate of evaporation based on the type of materials affected, or wet, in the room or space that was flooded.  Determining the Class of Water is an important first step and will determine the amount and type of equipment utilized to dry-down the structure.

Our technicians are fully trained and licensed to not only identify this dangerous Black Water but they are also up to the task of removing and restoring your property to like new standards. Call today!

Black Water. What is it?

5/15/2020 (Permalink)

The most hazardous of the three types of water damage, “black” water is usually a result of natural disasters or sewage damage. Example of Black water is water that comes from toilet overflows, sewage back-ups, rising flood water from rivers and streams as well as septic systems. Black water can include toxic materials such as bacterial diseases, chemicals, pesticides, microbes and more. If your home has suffered this type of damage, it is best to let a qualified professional begin the disinfecting process before you attempt to handle the damage on your own. They have the proper equipment and safety precautions in place to restore your home safely and thoroughly. You put yourself at risk if you are not careful with black water.

It is important to note that “gray” and “black” water are not necessarily the colors of the water that you will see in your home. They are simply terms that denote the level of contamination. If you experience a flood from a heavy rain, the water may look “clean,” but if there is any ground water that has backed up into your home as a result, there may be invisible microbes lurking in the water. This is why it is recommended that you allow a professional restoration service to assess and fix any water damage to your home. Better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your physical health, as well as the structure of your home.

What is "Clean" Water Damage?

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

There may be instances when the water that has encroached upon your home is “clean.” When a pipe bursts or an appliance malfunctions, or there is a leak in your roof that allows falling rain water to enter your home, oftentimes the water will be deemed “clean.” This is perhaps the easiest type of water damage to handle, since there will not be too many microbes living in the water. The biggest hazard clean water presents is if the area that has been damaged is not properly cleaned and dried. This can result in mold and fungus growth. If the water has been standing in your home fore over twenty-four hours, it is advisable for you to contact an emergency restoration service, such as SERVPRO of Galveston/Lake Jackson, to ensure that the water is dried thoroughly. This is especially important when the area affected is easily saturated, such as carpets or drywall.

Call SERVPRO of Galveston/Lake Jackson 409-762-4411 today!