Recent Posts
Restoration Experts Can Salvage Many Water-Damaged Items in Your Home
9/7/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO team meeting begin held to train staff on contents cleaning after water damage is endured.
There are several reasons that the need for floodwater removal can arise in local Bloomingdale homes. One of the most common is storm damage that allows rainwater to enter via the roof or through a broken window. Other entrances into the home include around doors and windows due to flash flooding.
When flood damage happens in a Bloomingdale property, the cleanup needs to begin as quickly as possible. The reason for this is that water degrades quickly, and after 48 hours, it can get classified as a category three biohazard, otherwise known as blackwater. While walls, ceilings, and furnishings may not recover after exposure to floodwater, in some cases, washable items can get sanitized for reuse. This application during water damage restoration can create significant savings for homeowners since they do not need to replace articles of clothing or other fabric items.
SERVPRO relies on the Esporta Washing System (EWS) to clean washable items in the home. It can return 90% of the soft contents in a home to a food-grade clean. This piece of equipment can handle washable items that have been exposed to contaminated water, including sewage. After a fire in a home, this same system can remove heavy smoke and soot. Mold spores infiltrating clothing used to be automatic disposal; however, a single cycle can remove mold and even bio-waste on launderable items. Other articles that can benefit are:
- Leather goods such as shoes and purses
- Sleeping bags
- Pillows
- Bedding
SERVPRO of Central Bloomingdale, Fish Hawk at (813) 460-0204 proudly supports the local Bloomingdale community for all types and sizes of restoration services. The certified techs are available 24/7.
SERVPRO Explains the Importance of Removing Standing Water Immediately
8/25/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO water damage experts arrive to remove standing water on emergency call.
Moisture and standing water are substantial threats for Bloomingdale homes after water damages
Burst pipes or invading water from roof leaks and damaged fixtures can leave inaccessible areas of the house struggling with water damage. With porous materials like drywall and carpeting quickly absorbing standing and migrating water, costly damage to these structural and cosmetic elements can result.
The Advantages of Controlled Demolition
Trapped water damage in Bloomingdale homes must get removed with careful strategies. Several unique approaches exist depending on the impacted material, ranging from weighted extractors for carpeted floors to more complex drying mats and injecti-dry and tenting systems. Pulling caught moisture from porous materials prevents this flooring or construction material from becoming disfigured or unusable.
How Does Moisture Spread Through Area Homes?
Much of the movement of moisture and water damage in homes after ceiling leaks or flooding can be attributed to natural processes where properties seek to find a balance, wet goes to dry. Reaching an equilibrium of temperature and moisture causes the migration of water through porous materials and open areas of the residence. High porosity materials are conduits to impact multiple spaces in the house simultaneously before thorough drying can resolve the situation. Some of these affected materials include:
- Drywall
- Wood framing
- Ceiling systems
- Carpeting
- Structural openings
Because of how quickly water damages can get out of control in area homes, fast action is preferable when drying and restoration are possible. Many area residents have trusted the reliable response of our SERVPRO of Central Bloomingdale, Fish Hawk team to help. We are available 24/7 at (813) 460-0204.
What to do When Water Damage Affects the Ceiling in Your Bloomingdale Home
8/7/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO water damage restoration experts were called in to assess, and restore, a badly damaged ceiling in Tampa home.
Water Restoration After Ceiling Leaks Must Get Handled Quickly to Preserve Building Materials in Bloomingdale Homes.
Ceiling leaks do not always immediately present themselves, allowing for degradation of exposed building materials over time while the moisture works its way to the surface of the ceiling drywall below. Our SERVPRO professionals have mitigation and restoration strategies to help every step of the way.
Water Removal Services and Mitigation
Among the chief steps of water restoration in Bloomingdale homes are mitigation and emergency services. Leading efforts in this stage of the recovery process are water removal services that employ pumps, vacuums, and specialty drying tools to pull standing water from flooring below the leaking portion of the ceiling.
Controlled Demolition and Broken Plumbing
With a general contractor license, our professionals can simultaneously manage multiple threats to the structure, beginning with controlled demolition of damaged ceiling materials. Accessing the plumbing breach is critical to restoring utility service as soon as possible. Our personnel can also remove and replace damaged portions of plumbing to bring the water lines back to their normal pressure and function fast.
Thorough Drying and Moisture Monitoring
Drying any property after water damage can be a big undertaking, one that includes several unique evaporative drying tools from our inventory. With structural cavities exposed where the plumbing was repaired, moist materials can be more easily accessed with centrifugal air movers and dehumidification equipment. To track the progress of these drying tools, we rely on monitoring equipment like:
Ceiling leaks can develop without direct knowledge of the property owners, persisting for some time before surfacing on the lower living space of the house. When you need a combination of effective restoration and reconstruction, our SERVPRO of Central Bloomingdale, Fish Hawk team can help. Give us a call today at (813) 460-0204.
How to Prepare Your Business for Emergencies Involving Water Damage
6/19/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO warehouse is loaded with equipment needed to serve disasters both large and small.
Water damage is a common problem encountered in commercial buildings. It can cause significant damage to the structure, destroy valuable assets, and disrupt business operations. The sources of water damage in commercial buildings can vary, including leaks from roofs, faulty plumbing, natural disasters such as floods or heavy rainfall, and the failure of equipment such as HVAC systems or water heaters. It is essential for business owners to take immediate action upon discovering water damage to prevent further damage and minimize the impact on business operations. Failure to act promptly can lead to extensive repairs, long-term damage, and potential health hazards. Commercial property owners and managers should have regular maintenance and inspection protocols in place to identify potential sources of water damage and address them before they worsen. A well-designed water management program can help mitigate water damage and its associated costs. Our team uses an ERP (Emergency Ready Program) system to help you create emergency preparedness protocol for your business as well. In cases of water damage, hiring a professional restoration company with experience in commercial buildings is crucial. Our experts have the necessary equipment and expertise to quickly and effectively restore the property to pre-damage conditions. Overall, water damage can pose significant risks to commercial buildings and businesses. As a result, it is crucial for property owners and managers to have a comprehensive water management plan in place to prevent, detect and respond to water damage promptly.
Bloomingdale Community Seeks Help From Experts to Remove Trapped Water
3/13/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Fish Hawk crew is called in to test moisture after standing water is identified.
Moisture and standing water are substantial threats for Bloomingdale homes after water damages
Burst pipes or invading water from roof leaks and damaged fixtures can leave inaccessible areas of the house struggling with water damage. With porous materials like drywall and carpeting quickly absorbing standing and migrating water, costly damage to these structural and cosmetic elements can result.
The Advantages of Controlled Demolition
Trapped water damage in Bloomingdale homes must get removed with careful strategies. Several unique approaches exist depending on the impacted material, ranging from weighted extractors for carpeted floors to more complex drying mats and injecti-dry and tenting systems. Pulling caught moisture from porous materials prevents this flooring or construction material from becoming disfigured or unusable.
How Does Moisture Spread Through Area Homes?
Much of the movement of moisture and water damage in homes after ceiling leaks or flooding can be attributed to natural processes where properties seek to find a balance, wet goes to dry. Reaching an equilibrium of temperature and moisture causes the migration of water through porous materials and open areas of the residence. High porosity materials are conduits to impact multiple spaces in the house simultaneously before thorough drying can resolve the situation. Some of these affected materials include:
- Drywall
- Wood framing
- Ceiling systems
- Carpeting
- Structural openings
Because of how quickly water damages can get out of control in area homes, fast action is preferable when drying and restoration are possible. Many area residents have trusted the reliable response of our SERVPRO of Central Bloomingdale, Fish Hawk team to help. We are available 24/7 at (813) 460-0204.
Lightening Dangers and Damage Your SERVPRO Emergency Response Experts Can Help With
3/1/2023 (Permalink)
SERVPRO water/storm damage technician loads up truck to service the Central Bloomingdale community.
How Lightning Forms
Did you know that lightning is the second highest cause of death by severe weather in the United States, and that lightning strikes are more deadly than hurricanes or tornadoes? Summer thunderstorms are common in Florida and most lightning flashes start inside the cloud. If the lightning is going to strike the ground, it will form a channel pointing downwards inside the cloud toward the surface. When it gets close enough, roughly a hundred yards from the ground, trees and bushes start sending sparks up to meet the electricity in the cloud. When a spark from the tree or bush connects with the electrical energy in the cloud it causes the electrical current to surge rapidly down the channel to the object that sent the spark. SERVPRO of Central Bloomingdale, Fish Hawk has years of experience providing storm damage cleanup and restoration services in Tampa and is ready to respond to any size emergency.
Call Us Today
If lightning causes damage to your home or commercial business, SERVPRO® of Central Bloomingdale is Here to Help. ® We have a team of highly trained technicians ready to respond to your call 24 hours a day and we can be onsite to immediately begin the repair process within four hours.
5 Common Water Damage Restoration Mistakes to Avoid for Homeowners
2/22/2023 (Permalink)
Water damage in Bloomingdale home being serviced by SERVPRO restoration experts.
Fixing water damage in your home requires knowing what can hinder your progress. Here are common water damage restoration mistakes:
Water damage can cause a myriad of problems for your property, your wallet, and your peace of mind. When it comes to being a homeowner, you can't afford to make mistakes if you need to have water damage issues corrected.
Read on for a list of five common water damage restoration mistakes to avoid so you can get back to living in a dry, safe home.
1. You Wait for the Issue to Go Away
Whether it's a major storm or a burst plumbing pipe, one of the most common water damage restoration mistakes that homeowners make is waiting too long to get help. You might think that everything will dry out on its own and that your home will return to normal. The truth is, water can wreak serious havoc on your home's structure even more than what you can see, so contacting a water damage cleaning service ASAP is key.
2. Water Damage Restoration Mistakes: Doing Things DIY
Fixing water damage yourself is almost impossible except for the initial cleanup and doing things like bringing furniture outside to dry. Otherwise, there are many things that you'll need to leave in the hands of the professionals. The pros have the water damage equipment needed to repair things the right way so that serious problems don't creep up later when you least expect them.
3. You Think It's No Big Deal
Water damage to homes can cause all kinds of issues with the structural integrity of your house. Mold and mildew can also grow, so it's important to make sure that everything is restored the right way the first time. If you shrug your shoulders and think that water damage isn't so bad, you might end up with a lot more issues later that could've been avoided if repairs were made upfront.
4. Not Knowing Signs of Water Damage
If you're recovering from a disaster, you might not easily recognize the signs of water damage right away. When this happens, problems can start to multiply without you even realizing it. Look for signs like discoloration of walls and floors, warping, and mold growth so that you're aware of serious issues before they get out of hand.
5. You're Using the Wrong Tools
Mops and towels can help to absorb excess water on the floors, but they're not enough to get the job done right. A water damage cleaning service has the proper water damage equipment to get things cleaned up the right way. These pros have a variety of specialized equipment and tools in their arsenal that will help to restore your home back to its original condition.
Don't make these water damage restoration mistakes if you've recently undergone water-related issues in your home. Never ignore the signs of water damage, and always contact the professionals to help you navigate this stressful time.
For more information about our water damage restoration services and how we can help, feel free to contact us today.
Holiday Vacations Are Upon Us! Let Us Help With Peace of Mind Tips on How to Avoid Water Damage.
9/9/2022 (Permalink)
Tampa resident with water damage after a pipe burst while family traveled on vacation.
Vacation is the best time to let your guard down! SERVPRO experts have a “tip list” to execute, so you don’t return to disaster after!
Lots of things can go wrong in your home while you’re on vacation. Most commonly, leaks and water damage. Read our steps below to learn how to help prevent and reduce the risk of water damage when you’re away:
Check for Leaks
Before you leave on vacation, be sure to check around your house for any leaks. Pipes under sinks, your water heater, anything resembling rust, cracks, or other damage. It’s important to check the seals around your windows and the exterior of your home as well. If you find any leakage, be sure to fix it right away so everything can be repaired and in good condition before you leave. If you have trouble identifying all of the places to check, you can count on the best plumbing experts in our area to help!
Inspect Appliances
Important appliances such as your dishwasher, washer/dryer, and refrigerator are all connected to your home by hoses. If these hoses are damaged in any way, they can cause major water damage to your home. Inspect your appliances and, if needed, replace their hoses prior to leaving on vacation.
Clean Your Gutters
Cleaning leaves and other debris out from your gutters before taking a vacation is an easy way to prevent potential blockage and build up. To learn more about the advantages of clean gutters, click here.
Turn Off the Water
Whenever you leave your home for an extended period of time, it’s important to turn off the water main and make sure the pipes are completely drained. This will stop any water from continually leaking in your home while you’re away. Simply run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water.
Have Someone Check on Your Home
Coordinate to have someone come over and check on your home while you’re away. Having a friend, neighbor, or family member keep an eye on your property can help keep it in good shape, and they can notify you immediately if something goes wrong.
With these tips, you can truly enjoy your vacation with the peace of mind that your home is safe from any potential water damage that could occur in your absence. If your home does suffer from water damage, call our team at SERVPRO of Bloomingdale/Fish Hawk. We can help remove, repair, and restore any damage to your home.
What Needs Checking at My Bloomingdale Home After Water Damage?
7/27/2022 (Permalink)
We have the equipment and training to restore your home to pre-damage condition after water damage.
SERVPRO Does the Broad Checks Bloomingdale Homes Require Before Water Restoration
Various actions are necessary for a home after water damage. Evaluation after the incident is crucial since it provides material information on the best course of action. When you want to check things, an appropriate approach is to do it comprehensively, touching on your home's directly and indirectly affected areas.
It is easy to think that since your Bloomingdale home has water damage only in one area, checks should only concentrate on that area. However, moisture migration does not follow uniform patterns. It is not constrained by physical barriers such as walls since it can wick through materials or dissipate into the air as humidity. Our SERVPRO crews can inspect your house since we use different tools which simplify inspection.
Where to Concentrate the Inspection
- Concealed areas like floors and walls
- Electronics and appliances
- Any discoloration patches or dark spots
Inspecting a house after water intrusion should help reveal any urgent and obscure issues, minimizing the chances of serious problems later on. Recessed areas within the structure form perfect holding ground for moisture to accumulate and remain hidden until severe problems such as rot, mold, or odors alert the homeowner of the hidden water damage. At such a stage, the level of deterioration is intense, requiring significant work and huge costs. Our SERVPRO technicians concentrate on walls and floor surfaces when doing the checks since the likelihood of moisture accumulation is high in these sections.
Checking whether there is water damage in concealed areas is challenging since there is no direct access. Opening up the areas merely for inspecting is not ideal because it is time-consuming and destructive. Our SERVPRO technicians use alternative means such as thermal cameras to identify wet patches beneath other materials. Penetrative moisture meters are also helpful, especially when establishing the moisture percentage, a crucial metric for water cleanup processes.
Moisture in Contents
Apart from structural areas, moisture also finds a way into contents. Electronics and other appliances are vulnerable since moisture contact with internal components leads to rusting and electrical shorts. Such items may not show any outward signs of damage since their outer shells are made of nonporous plastics, metal, or glass.
The moisture can find its way inside such components through direct exposure or when humidity in the air condenses inside the item. Our SERVPRO technicians can take action to prevent or minimize water damage in this category of things by covering them with plastic sheets, moving them away from affected rooms, and maintaining temperatures above the dew point to prevent condensation. If any item is visibly wet, we expedite water extraction and set up a dehumidifier in the storage area. Such items also require cleaning and restoration by a specialist.
Wherever the checks reveal moisture presence, adequate measures are necessary to counter its effects. Some early signs of water damage include discoloration and changes in physical form. Our SERVPRO technicians probe the areas where we note changes for signs of severe problems like mold. For example, probing a material like drywall or solid wood reveals whether it is sturdy or soft, indicating rot or mold deterioration. If none of the advanced problems are noted, we can use various controlled drying procedures, including drying chambers, to save the materials.
SERVPRO of Central Bloomingdale, Fish Hawk, can help you establish the level of water damage in your home early enough. Call us at (813) 460-0204.
After My Bloomingdale Home Sustains Fire Damage, What Is the First Thing to Do?
7/27/2022 (Permalink)
Call our experts after you experience a fire disaster, we have the training and tools for fire & smoke restoration.
Timely Fire Mitigation Limits the Effects of a Fire at Your Bloomingdale Home
If you feel confused after a fire incident at your Bloomingdale home, you should not worry. It is a common outcome considering how such incidents leave widespread damages and clutter. Finding a way to mitigate the damages, especially the secondary ones, is essential at the earliest opportunity.
Mitigation in a Bloomingdale home after fire damage takes several actions. Most of these actions have to be taken simultaneously to be effective, which leads to confusion. Assistance from SERVPRO plays a crucial role in establishing order and resolving the problems.
Essential Early-Stage Actions
- Inspection
- Structure protection
- Moisture management
Inspecting a fire-damaged property might sound unnecessary since issues like charring, soot deposit, and odors are readily noticeable. However, the easily identifiable problems are not the only ones left by fire damage. An inspection helps reveal hidden issues or the true extent of the obvious ones. For example, observation makes it easy to tell whether surfaces are charred or covered in soot residues. However, determining the charring depth or the type of soot deposits collected on surfaces requires better evaluation.
Char depth matters because when it extends beyond 15%, a material loses structural integrity, thus making any fire restoration efforts futile. After stripping down covering materials like insulation and wall panels, our SERVPRO technicians use char gauges on critical structural areas such as frames and trusses ( ¼" depth is acceptable for salvaging). Soot deposits vary in physical and chemical properties. The most common variation noted is dry and wet soot which influences the cleaning processes. Dry soot is readily removed through dry cleaning procedures like vacuuming, feather dusting, and cleaning with sponges. Wet soot residues necessitate the use of solvents and other cleaning agents.
Protection During Fire Damage Restoration
- Protecting the structure from external elements
- Protecting the valuables in your home
- Protecting interior structural areas
Safeguarding your home immediately after fire damage is essential. Otherwise, the damages started by combustion can escalate beyond control. The level of clutter and disorganization at your home might also force you to dispose of things en-masse if no safeguards are established from the start. Our SERVPRO crews take care of these issues in different ways. We set up various controls to organize the fire damaged site. For instance, having large trash cans and setting a staging area for storing restoration equipment and cleaning products enhances efficiency and reduces unnecessary clutter.
The interior sections of your house are highly vulnerable in the aftermath of a fire. The water that quells the flames can become problematic if the moisture left in the structure is not managed. Controlling moisture under the circumstances imposed by a fire is much more challenging because actions such as moving items might be curtailed by soiling and hazards. Drying is also challenging because using air movers to boost evaporation would spread soot residues and other debris all over the property. Our SERVPRO crews provide the necessary help to remove the moisture and protect your home. We set up containment barriers with plastic sheets to separate the burnt home sections from the rest of the property, ensuring that disturbed residues do not reach unintended areas. We also have low airflow dehumidifiers for drying with minimal disturbance to debris.
SERVPRO of Central Bloomingdale, Fish Hawk, helps mount a proper response in any case involving fire damage making it "Like it never even happened." Call us at (813) 460-0204.
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