Water Damage Classification

8/1/2024 (Permalink)

As a property owner,  you may have to deal with several water issues. Being a property owner in this area you should become familiar with the different levels of water classification.

1. Sanitary Water

Category one water is considered sanitary water. This water is the safest water to drink, cook with, and bathe with. Sanitary water is also commonly referred to as clear water, which is a reference to its appearance and an indicator that it is clean, meaning that it has not been contaminated by other sources.

2. Gray Water

Gray Water, category two, is not sanitary and can pose a risk of illness if you come into contact or consume this water. Typically, this water occurs in the event of appliance or toilet overflow, which means that it is contaminated by chemicals and sewage.

3. Black Water

Black water, category three, is the most dangerous of all waters and is likely the result of flood water. This water is formed by a mixture of rising rivers and overflowing sewers. With the high level of contaminants in this water, it is also toxic to humans and animals, causing illness and potential fatality if ingested. If you’re building is submerged in black water, it is best to avoid it and allow professionals to do the final cleanup process.

Flood water presents a serious risk to people, and when it reaches category three, black water, it should be avoided. As an owner, you should be aware of the various levels of water categorization to ensure both your safety and the safety of others.

For more information contact SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol at 423-245-5552.

Water Damage Restoration Process

8/18/2023 (Permalink)

1. Call A Water Damage Restoration Company.

The first thing you should do upon recognizing signs of water damage is to call for help. If you don't contact a water damage restoration company immediately, you run the risk of weakening your property's structural integrity and exposing it to a mold invasion. In addition to contacting a restoration company, be sure to call your insurance agent. She or he will provide you with information regarding how to quickly and correctly file your claim.

2. Property Assessment.

After calling arestoration company, contractors will come to your property and complete a thorough assessment. The assessment is designed to provide the remediation specialists with a clear understanding of the extent of your water damages . Once this information is attained, the contractors will develop and implement a strategic plan to expedite and optimize the restoration process.

3. Water Removal.

After the strategic plan is drafted, the contractors will move forward with the water removal process. This process will involve the use of specialized, professional equipment like vacuums and power pumps.

4. Drying And Dehumidifying Process.

Once the water removal process is complete, the restoration specialists will move forward with the drying and dehumidifying work. Generally, your walls and floors will retain excess water. This water can cause swelling, warping, or the complete breakdown of your property. For this reason, your restoration team will work with skill and speed to eliminate all remaining moisture through the use of industrial equipment.

5. Cleaning.

The final step in the water damage restoration process is thorough cleaning. Your restoration team will offer a wide range of services to get your house in safe, sanitary condition. Some of the services offered will include disinfectant, antibacterial, and antimicrobial treatments. Deodorization and odor removal treatments can also be offered.

When you find that your residential property is adversely impacted bywater damage, it's time to implement the right solutions. The fast, effective solution is calling a team of excellent, expedient contractors to restore your property.

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol is ready to respond if disaster strikes your home or business.

Water Removal May be Needed

7/20/2022 (Permalink)

Reasons Water Removal May be Needed 

Water damage in your home occurs when excess water starts to pool where it shouldn’t. Several factors can make this excess water, and therefore, contribute to damage to your structure. When you know what the potential causes are, you can take precautionary steps to help you avoid a water loss. You can also spot an issue once it arises and gets it fixed before it has a chance to do additional damage.

The faster you see a problem, the less work and extraction there is. Either way, water cleanup needs to be done, and you should hire the help of a professional remediation company to do the job. SERVPRO staff is available to help you at any time with the experience and knowledge that you would expect from a reputable company.

A common cause of water damage in your home is broken hoses and pipes. Things such as aging pipes, a burst water main, or ice maker supply lines and washing machine supply hoses that fail certainly ruin your day. It is a good idea to purchase copper pipes and braided metal lines to replace the original ones, as they hold up much better so you can avoid accidents.

No matter what has happened, SERVPRO techs can help you get your home dry and back in its usual condition. We have various tools to help us get the water out, including moisture meters and sensors to find any hidden moisture, truck-mounted pumps to get rid of any standing water over a few inches deep, plus air movers and dehumidifiers to dry everything back out. We also work promptly, so we avoid additional damage being done to your structure, such as mold growth.

Another common reason for water damage in your home includes broken toilets and overflowing bathtubs. Children are big culprits, so your best defense is to watch them! Water is fascinating to children, especially when it is flowing over the toilet and tub rims.

Sewer backups, unfortunately, happen as well. Tree roots can invade and clog your drain lines. Using an enzyme drain treatment to flush out your lines every month during the spring and summer months when tree roots grow the most is a good idea to avoid this kind of catastrophe.

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol can help you dry your home after a water damage emergency, no matter what type it is. Just give our crew a call at (423) 245-5552 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can come quickly and fix things for you.

Water Classification

7/13/2022 (Permalink)

As a property owner,  you may have to deal with several water issues. Being a property owner in this area you should become familiar with the different levels of water classification.

1. Sanitary Water

Category one water is considered sanitary water. This water is the safest water to drink, cook with, and bathe with. Sanitary water is also commonly referred to as clear water, which is a reference to its appearance and an indicator that it is clean, meaning that it has not been contaminated by other sources.

2. Gray Water

Gray Water, category two, is not sanitary and can pose a risk of illness if you come into contact or consume this water. Typically, this water occurs in the event of appliance or toilet overflow, which means that it is contaminated by chemicals and sewage.

3. Black Water

Black water, category three, is the most dangerous of all waters and is likely the result of flood water. This water is formed by a mixture of rising rivers and overflowing sewers. With the high level of contaminants in this water, it is also toxic to humans and animals, causing illness and potential fatality if ingested. If you’re building is submerged in black water, it is best to avoid it and allow professionals to do the final cleanup process.

Flood water presents a serious risk to people, and when it reaches category three, black water, it should be avoided. As a owner, you should be aware of the various levels of water categorization to ensure both your safety and the safety of others.

For more information contact SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol at 423-245-5552.

What to expect when you call SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol with a water damage

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help 24/7/365

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 Kingsport / Bristol has the training and experience to help you through this tough time. 

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)?
• What areas are affected and types of flooring?

Need Emergency Service? Call us at 423-245-5552

My Kingsport Basement is Flooded! What should I do?

6/2/2022 (Permalink)

Have you experienced a flooded basement? What steps should you take?

1. Practice Caution

First and foremost, make sure that it’s safe to step into the basement. If there are electrical appliances, or if the water has risen above the electrical outlets, it isn’t safe to even touch the water; an electrical current will be traveling through the water. Cut the power off at the main breaker if you can safely reach it.

2. Investigate for Water Source

There are numerous possible causes of excessive water in the basement. The source may not be immediately apparent; it could be a burst pipe, heavy rainfall, foundation cracks or a sewer backup.

3. Dry Affected Area

A wet/dry vacuum comes in very useful for removing standing water and small bits of debris. Once the standing water is eliminated, open windows and doors and run fans. Dehumidifiers can also be a valuable resource to use for a basement flood since basements are often poorly ventilated.

4. Discard Unsalvageable Materials

There will probably be materials that you wouldn’t expect to be deemed unsalvageable from a flooded basement. These could include drywall, carpet, wooden furniture and other porous materials. Any porous items that can’t be fully dried within 48 hours usually need to be discarded as it’s likely mold has already begun to grow.

5. Contact Professionals

Cleanup professionals will need to come to clean up and restore the major damage. Mold can begin to grow within 24 hours of the introduction to moisture. The professionals will make sure everything is dried and cleaned thoroughly and will return your home to its preloss condition.
A basement flood can result in large cleanup and restoration bills. Be sure to contact your insurance company to determine the extent of your insurance coverage.

We are available to help you any time of day or night. Call us at 423-245-5552

Hidden Water Damage

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

1. Waterlogged Appliances

There are a few culprits that cause water damage. Toilets and sinks are used frequently, and even a small leak can lead to significant problems.

Search under sinks for standing water or water spots, signs that moisture has built up before. Also, look behind your toilet and sink, as well as the ceilings below them, for discoloration. If your toilet tank never stays at its waterline, that's an indication of some leakage.

2. Pooling Water = Wet Walls

Often, the simple act of hanging a picture can eventually make a pipe burst or even spring a small leak. Check for soft spots and discoloration in drywall to help locate any possible damage.

Another possible way to spot water in your walls is by investigating the floors below. Puddles or signs of flooding in the basement or the crawlspace of your home can mean you've got a leak. Investigate these quickly since damp drywall can create dangerous mold conditions that can be difficult to clean up.

3. Bubbles Everywhere

A small leak doesn't always get absorbed by wood or drywall. When water encounters a barrier, it will begin to pool. This leads to bubbles in the ceiling or walls and can look like the paint is melting away.

If these bubbles are punctured, you could have a huge mess on your hands. Even worse, it can become a safety issue due to buckling or collapse. Suppose you find signs of water damage in your home or business thanks to a pipe burst or another reason. Contact SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol at 423-245-5552. 

Shut Off Valves at Work

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

We have water shut off tags you can put on your water valves so they can be easily seen.

Many workplaces always call on the boss or the maintenance man when something goes wrong. What if they were home sick, or in a meeting and you need to locate the water shut off, where do you start? 

SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol can help commercial properties in planning for a water, fire, storm damage. How? with a free Emergency Response Profile created by your local SERVPRO franchise.  

By having a plan of action and including it into your regular training at your office you can minimize the cost if an unplanned event happens like a frozen pipe, fire, or anything. 

Some property managers use this as a tool to keep everything organized in one central location. 

Is your business ready for a disaster. Even a simple pipe burst can cause a lot of damage and headache. With a SERVPRO® Emergency READY Profile it can have the critical information to minimize damages, provide the resources for the employee's of the company, and provide property details and information. This is a FREE service that we provide to commercial properties. 

Make an appointment today to get started!

If the unthinkable happens, call your local SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol Professionals at 423-245-5552; 24/7 to help you avoid the cost and hassle of secondary damages.  We will help make it "Like it never even happened."

My Basement is Flooded! What steps should I take?

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in a Basement

1. Practice Caution

First and foremost, make sure that it’s safe to step into the basement. If there are electrical appliances, or if the water has risen above the electrical outlets, it isn’t safe to even touch the water; an electrical current will be traveling through the water. Cut the power off at the main breaker if you can safely reach it.

2. Investigate for Water Source

There are numerous possible causes of excessive water in the basement. The source may not be immediately apparent; it could be a burst pipe, heavy rainfall, foundation cracks or a sewer backup.

3. Dry Affected Area

A wet/dry vacuum comes in very useful for removing standing water and small bits of debris. Once the standing water is eliminated, open windows and doors and run fans. Dehumidifiers can also be a valuable resource to use for a basement flood since basements are often poorly ventilated.

4. Discard Unsalvageable Materials

There will probably be materials that you wouldn’t expect to be deemed unsalvageable from a flooded basement. These could include drywall, carpet, wooden furniture and other porous materials. Any porous items that can’t be fully dried within 48 hours usually need to be discarded as it’s likely mold has already begun to grow.

5. Contact Professionals

Cleanup professionals will need to come to clean up and restore the major damage. Mold can begin to grow within 24 hours of the introduction to moisture. The professionals will make sure everything is dried and cleaned thoroughly and will return your home to its preloss condition.
A basement flood can result in large cleanup and restoration bills. Be sure to contact your insurance company to determine the extent of your insurance coverage.

We are available to help you any time of day or night. Call us at 423-245-5552

Water Damage Timeline

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

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 Kingsport / Bristol arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Timeline:

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Please don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol immediately if you suspect any damage or have any questions. Contact us at 423-245-5552

Most Common Causes of Water Damage in your home or business

4/8/2021 (Permalink)

One of the most common causes of water damage in a home or business is burst pipes or ruptured appliance supply lines. These types of water damage incidents have many causes. Knowing and understanding the causes can help the homeowner or business owner take measures to prevent a water damage disasters. 

Excessive water pressure

Water pipes are manufactured to withstand a specified amount of internal water pressure. The specific water pressure rating is typically printed on the pipe. When the water pressure exceeds the pressure rating, the result is a burst pipe, a flooded mess, and damage to personal belongings and the structure.

Frozen pipes

In many parts of the US during the winter, temperatures plunge into the frigid zone, resulting in frozen pipes that burst and wreak havoc in many homes and businesses. In colder regions, adequate pipe insulation and heat tape are sufficient to prevent water pipes from freezing. 

Incorrect pipework and layering

Property owners are advised to hire a licensed, qualified plumber experienced in pipe layering to install pipework and the connections. Any error in the layering process can lead to incorrect subjugation of water pressure, resulting in a burst pipe. When a larger pipe is connected to a smaller pipe, the excessive pressure from the water can lead to a burst pipe.

Aging pipes

Metal and plastic water pipes have a definite life span. Proper maintenance can extend this lifespan a few years. Corrosion degrades metal pipes, making them susceptible to breaking. Over time, plastic pipes become brittle. When pipes become vulnerable, the slightest variations in water pressure can cause these pipes to rupture, potentially causing extensive water damage.

Clogs

Clogs are a common cause of pipe breakage. Internal accumulation of coagulated minerals can clog pipes. A major clog restricting water flow can cause incredible pressure that accumulates above the blockage and results in a burst pipe or leak.

Ground movements

Ground movement can rupture aging pipes and compromise newer pipes, which eventually leak or burst.

Improper pipe connections

Pipe connections are vulnerable weak links in any plumbing system. Improper pipe connections can leak or burst under extreme pressure. A trained and experienced plumber is worth the expense when plumbing installation and repairs are needed. 

Types of Water Damage from Burst Pipes

A burst water pipe can cause massive damage to a home or business. A burst pipe or ruptured appliance supply line can unleash a fountain of water at a rate of seven to nine gallons per minute, causing seen and unseen damage to the structure. The seen and unseen damage from burst pipes may include the following:

Damaged insulation and wiring

When cellulose, loose fill, or fiberglass become saturated and compresses, it loses some of its insulating value and must be replaced. Wet wiring can short circuit and cause a fire. Sometimes the entire wall must be ripped apart to remove and replace the compressed insulation and repair the soaked wiring.

Rotted structural materials

If unseen or left unchecked, water from leaking pipes can flow into the walls and under flooring before it is noticed. The structural damage can involve

• Warping, cracking, and rotting of wall studs
• Swelling, warping, and rotting of baseboards
• Rotting of wooden support beams and sub-floors
• Rusting of steel brackets that hold support beams in place (Rusting and compromised support brackets can lead to costly repairs that far exceed damage to plaster, drywall, and lathe.)

Mold

Even after all water-soaked materials have been dried or removed, mold can start to grow inside air ducts, walls, and even the subfloor. Mold is difficult to remediate and requires professional experience, training, and equipment, including personal protective gear (PPG), to safely and effectively mitigate. Mold cleanup is not a DIY project.

Water damage from a burst water pipe or a ruptured appliance supply not only disrupts life and causes stress, but it also can present serious dangers and health hazards. As soon as water damage is suspected or detected, call in a professional water damage restoration specialist to inspect and assess the situation before advanced secondary damage occurs.

For more information about water damage restoration in Kingsport / Bristol and the surrounding area, contact the office by phone at 423-245-5552

Water Damage in your Bristol Home

10/1/2020 (Permalink)

This is a photo of a couple of our air movers at work drying a home in Bristol after flooding.

Our SERVPRO Technicians Thoroughly Remediate Water Damage in Your Bristol Home.

If you happen to experience a water damage incident, you have to treat everything as an emergency. Contacting licensed restoration providers is highly recommended so that the damaged areas can be pre-inspected and mitigation measures put in place. A few dangerous situations to address at the time include deteriorated sub-floors, falling ceilings, and electrical hazards. Our technicians carefully examine damaged areas and check for standing water in crawl spaces, walls and floors below. A moisture meter is used to determine the extent of water penetration in your property. Drying wet surfaces is a crucial goal of the restoration, and for that to happen, technicians may position air movers to facilitate the flow of air. Based on the IICRC standards, the professionals determine the number and size of dehumidifiers to put in place. The work of the dehumidifiers is to move dry air into the affected areas and increase the rate of evaporation. 

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol is here to attend to all your mold, storm, fire, and water damage disasters. Call us at (423) 245-5552 to learn more about our restoration and cleaning options. 

Post Flood Damage Safety Tips for Your Kingsport Home

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Flood Water Damage

Kingsport Flood Damage Safety Tips

Floods are devastating, and dealing with one that damages your home can be a major pain. The big problem with floods is that the damage they cause can linger long after they are gone, so it's important to follow some post flood damage safety tips.

Cleaning up

Floodwaters that infiltrate your come can bring a toxic soup of sewage, gasoline, toxic chemicals and all kinds of pathogens. When you are doing flood restoration, you need to take safety precautions. If you have to wade into floodwaters to retrieve items or to help get the water out, make sure to wear protective clothing. And if you spend a significant amount of time in a room that has sustained flood damage, you should wear a respirator.

Throw out anything porous that came in contact with floodwaters. This includes carpet, upholstered furniture, large rugs, mattresses, paper items and even drywall. Clothing and small rugs that can be machine-washed are OK to keep, although they will need a thorough washing.

You have to make sure you thoroughly dry out the space to prevent mold growth. Ventilate the room and bring in large fans to run for at least 24 hours and longer if necessary. After that, you should use dehumidifiers to suck any remaining moisture out of the air. Before you do any restoration work, such as reinstalling drywall or carpet, use a moisture meter to make sure the room is free of moisture. If there is still moisture in studs, for example, it can lead to mold growth later on.

Once the area is fully dry, you should clean all surfaces thoroughly with a heavy-duty cleaner, preferably one that has bleach in it. This should include walls, floors, cabinets, counter tops and any solid-surface furniture that you salvaged.

Boil and treat your water

If you have a well, floodwaters may have infiltrated your water supply. Immediately after the flood, you should boil all water before drinking or cooking with it. As soon as possible, get your well water tested. If high levels of pathogens and particles are found, you will need to have your water source treated before you can safely use it again.

When your Kingsport home has water damage from flooding, we have the expertise and equipment to properly handle emergencies.

If you have questions about flood or water damage, call us today at 423-245-5552. 

Dealing with a Water Leak in Bristol

7/6/2020 (Permalink)

Keeping out the Water Cuts Down on Water Damage

Initial Action for a Water Leak in Bristol

Having a water leak within your Bristol home can be an incredibly difficult thing to have to handle on your own. Water leaks can be either minor or major and can easily result in flooding and water damage. Flooding, in itself, can be damaging because of a large amount of items that can be ruined by the water. One of the best things you can do, and as long as it is safe, is to remove any items from the area that may get ruined because of a water leak. If there are expensive electronics within the vicinity, it is vital that you pick these up and remove them to a safer area.

The most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to a flood or water leak is to protect yourself. If there is electricity within the area, make sure that you stay out of the water and contact a professional company like SERVPRO right away. You should always make sure that you and your loved ones are safe when doing this type of work. The last thing you want is to be in a dangerous area because there is a flood within your home.

If you can contain the water that is accumulating from the leak, this is something that you will also want to do. You can use towels, sandbags or anything else to keep the water at bay and to contain it to one specific area. Thus, you're decreasing the amount of water damage to the rest of your home. With less damage, it is beneficial to saving yourself a lot of time and money later on with getting these types of things repaired and restored to their original condition.

Once the leak and flooding have been contained it is vital that you contact the professionals at SERVPRO so that they can take care of the damage for you. They can deal with water damaged walls, flooring, furniture, cabinetry and other items that might have been affected by the flood or leak. Having the water damage repaired by the experts from SERVPRO means that all the water and moisture will be extracted from your home.  This water removal will prevent potential future problems caused by mold or mildew.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this Bristol community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency.

We specialize in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business.  Call us
for help.  (423) 245-5552

Our Professionals Discuss Our Water Removal Services For Your Kingsport Home

6/25/2020 (Permalink)

Take advantage of our training, and put us to work for you, call for more information (423) 245-5552.

Professional Water Removal Services In Kingsport

Removing water from your Kingsport property after experiencing water intrusions can be rather severe. Using a wet-dry vacuum and towels can be enough for small spills. However, larger areas require the attention of water removal specialists. Never leave water damage to chance; your family home deserves the best, so why settle for less.

It helps to pay close attention to water removal in your Kingsport area home. A small amount of moisture can cause massive problems down the road. Excess moisture often leads to damages to your walls, floor, framing, structure, and more. Working with a licensed professional who has all of the right equipment, personnel, and resources needed to tackle any size job can make a huge difference.

A small leak behind the dishwasher in your kitchen can lead to significant damage. Your cabinets, subfloor, countertops, and flooring all suffer if you fail to get the water out promptly. SERVPRO can provide you with water extractors, drying equipment, and the proper support 24/7. We make it easy to tackle emergencies and help keep your home dry, clean, and safe.

Our technicians use infrared water detectors that helps locate and remove excess moisture trapped in even the smallest hard-to-reach areas of your home. Our water extractors come in all shapes and sizes, making it possible to remove hundreds of gallons of water from your home within minutes. SERVPRO also has air movers with various attachments and technicians utilizing different drying techniques all working in unison to achieve quality results.

SERVPRO gives you access to professionals with full Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), who live in your local area. We are your neighbors, friends, or even family and enjoy providing emergency services you can count on to make things right. Our staff even helps you with the paperwork necessary to speed up the insurance claim process to ensure everything keeps rolling smoothly. Get the services, quality, and assurance you deserve.

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol has an entire GREEN FLEET standing by to assist with your water removal and home restoration needs. Take advantage of our training, and put us to work for you, call for more information (423) 245-5552.

Our Technicians Explain Several Reasons Why You Need To Contact Us After A Water Damage Incident In Your Home

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Just give our crew a call at (423) 245-5552 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can come quickly and fix things for you.

Reasons Water Removal May be Needed For Your Home

Water damage in your home occurs when excess water starts to pool where it shouldn’t. Several factors can make this excess water, and therefore, contribute to damage to your structure. When you know what the potential causes are, you can take precautionary steps to help you avoid a water loss. You can also spot an issue once it arises and gets it fixed before it has a chance to do additional damage.

The faster you see a problem, the less work and extraction there is. Either way, water cleanup needs to be done and you should hire the help of a professional remediation company to do the job. SERVPRO staff is available to help you at any time with the experience and knowledge that you would expect from a reputable company.

A common cause of water damage in your home is broken hoses and pipes. Things such as aging pipes, a burst water main, or ice maker supply lines and washing machine supply hoses that fail certainly ruin your day. It is a good idea to purchase copper pipes and braided metal lines to replace the original ones, as they hold up much better so you can avoid accidents.

No matter what has happened, SERVPRO techs can help you get your home dry and back in its usual condition. We have various tools to help us get the water out, including moisture meters and sensors to find any hidden moisture, truck-mounted pumps to get rid of any standing water over a few inches deep, plus air movers and dehumidifiers to dry everything back out. We also work promptly, so we avoid additional damage being done to your structure, such as mold growth.

Another common reason for water damage in your home includes broken toilets and overflowing bathtubs. Children are big culprits, so your best defense is to watch them! Water is fascinating to children, especially when it is flowing over the toilet and tub rims.

Sewer backups, unfortunately, happen as well. Tree roots can invade and clog your drain lines. Using an enzyme drain treatment to flush out your lines every month during the spring and summer months when tree roots grow the most is a good idea to avoid this kind of catastrophe.

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol can help you dry your home after a water damage emergency, no matter what type it is. Just give our crew a call at (423) 245-5552 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can come quickly and fix things for you.

Don't Let Rain Damage Your Home Our Crew Is Here To Help!

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

Contact us at our emergency services line, (423) 245-5552, which is answered 24/7, year-round.

When Rain Invades Your Roof And Causes Damaged Areas Throughout Your Home

During the spring months, our area receives a large amount of rain. While this precipitation benefits our lawns and gardens, small gaps in your roof can let this rain slip into your attic and cause problems. Gutters that have become misaligned can also send water up against your home, saturating siding and other sections of your home that allow moisture to pass through into your living space.

SERVPRO wants to assure homeowners that we have the proper equipment, skills and experience, and dedication to rid houses of water damage and its effects. We know how to use highly effective methods of mitigation to stop moisture from damaging unharmed areas of a home while restoring areas that already succumbed to the effects of exposure to moisture and water.

Because moisture travels easily and rapidly inside walls, this moisture can also end up behind cabinets, as well as underneath these structures. We use thermal imaging cameras to find such places. Cabinets are only one location that water tends to hide. We also find hidden water in other places.

Your walls that form a barrier against the outside contain insulation to keep the environment inside your home under control. When this insulation becomes wet, it loses the ability to keep warm air where you want it, allowing the energy to pass through the wall. Hollow walls inside your home that separate rooms and hallways often do not contain any insulation. The drying process for these walls occurs much faster because we do not need to extract any insulation.

Ceilings can also end up not only saturated with moisture but used as a holding basin for unwanted water. When moisture invades a ceiling, it can leave a stain. Discolorations can take a while to develop. A sudden change in a ceiling's shape, however, can mean water from a storm is pushing the center of the ceiling down with its weight.

SERVPRO technicians know which are the most effective ways for these situations. From drilling holes behind a cabinet, at the base of walls, or to drain a water-laden ceiling, as well as many other techniques that help restore homes and mitigate water damage to prevent further destruction, we use the latest in technology and restoration science to make everything “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol can help you protect your home from the many different effects of water damage. Contact us at our emergency services line, (423) 245-5552, which is answered 24/7, year-round.

Water Damage in your Home

10/17/2019 (Permalink)

This is a photo of a couple of our air movers at work drying a home in Kingsport after a tree fell on it during a storm.

Our SERVPRO Technicians Thoroughly Remediate Water Damage in Your Home.

If you happen to experience a water damage incident, you have to treat everything as an emergency. Contacting licensed restoration providers is highly recommended so that the damaged areas can be pre-inspected and mitigation measures put in place. A few dangerous situations to address at the time include deteriorated sub-floors,falling ceilings, and electrical hazards. Our technicians carefully examine damaged areas and check for standing water in crawl spaces, walls and floors below. A moisture meter is used to determine the extent of water penetration in your property. Drying wet surfaces is a crucial goal of the restoration, and for that to happen, technicians may position air movers to facilitate the flow of air. Based on the IICRC standards, the professionals determine the number and size of dehumidifiers to put in place. The work of the dehumidifiers is to move dry air into the affected areas and increase the rate of evaporation. 

SERVPRO of kingsport / Bristol is here to attend to all your mold, storm, fire, and water damage disasters. Call us at (423) 245-5552 to learn more about our restoration and cleaning options. 

Our Professionals Discuss Our Water Removal Services For Your Bristol Home

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Take advantage of our training, and put us to work for you, call for more information (423) 245-5552.

Professional Water Removal Services In Bristol

Removing water from your Bristol property after experiencing water intrusions can be rather severe. Using a wet-dry vacuum and towels can be enough for small spills. However, larger areas require the attention of water removal specialists. Never leave water damage to chance; your family home deserves the best, so why settle for less.

It helps to pay close attention to water removal in your Bristol area home. A small amount of moisture can cause massive problems down the road. Excess moisture often leads to damages to your walls, floor, framing, structure, and more. Working with a licensed professional who has all of the right equipment, personnel, and resources needed to tackle any size job can make a huge difference.

A small leak behind the dishwasher in your kitchen can lead to significant damage. Your cabinets, subfloor, countertops, and flooring all suffer if you fail to get the water out promptly. SERVPRO can provide you with water extractors, drying equipment, and the proper support 24/7. We make it easy to tackle emergencies and help keep your home dry, clean, and safe.

Our technicians use infrared water detectors that helps locate and remove excess moisture trapped in even the smallest hard-to-reach areas of your home. Our water extractors come in all shapes and sizes, making it possible to remove hundreds of gallons of water from your home within minutes. SERVPRO also has air movers with various attachments and technicians utilizing different drying techniques all working in unison to achieve quality results.

SERVPRO gives you access to professionals with full Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), who live in your local area. We are your neighbors, friends, or even family and enjoy providing emergency services you can count on to make things right. Our staff even helps you with the paperwork necessary to speed up the insurance claim process to ensure everything keeps rolling smoothly. Get the services, quality, and assurance you deserve.

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol has an entire GREEN FLEET standing by to assist with your water removal and home restoration needs. Take advantage of our training, and put us to work for you, call for more information (423) 245-5552.

For more about Bristol click here.

Don't Let Rain Damage Your Bristol Home Our Crew Is Here To Help!

4/24/2019 (Permalink)

Contact us at our emergency services line, (423) 245-5552, which is answered 24/7, year-round.

When Rain Invades Your Roof And Causes Damaged Areas Throughout Your Bristol Home

During the spring months, Bristol receives a large amount of rain. While this precipitation benefits our lawns and gardens, small gaps in your roof can let this rain slip into your attic and cause problems. Gutters that have become misaligned can also send water up against your home, saturating siding and other sections of your home that allow moisture to pass through into your living space.

SERVPRO wants to assure homeowners that we have the proper equipment, skills and experience, and dedication to rid Bristol houses of water damage and its effects. We know how to use highly effective methods of mitigation to stop moisture from damaging unharmed areas of a home while restoring areas that already succumbed to the effects of exposure to moisture and water.

Because moisture travels easily and rapidly inside walls, this moisture can also end up behind cabinets, as well as underneath these structures. We use thermal imaging cameras to find such places. Cabinets are only one location that water tends to hide. We also find hidden water in other places.

Your walls that form a barrier against the outside contain insulation to keep the environment inside your home under control. When this insulation becomes wet, it loses the ability to keep warm air where you want it, allowing the energy to pass through the wall. Hollow walls inside your home that separate rooms and hallways often do not contain any insulation. The drying process for these walls occurs much faster because we do not need to extract any insulation.

Ceilings can also end up not only saturated with moisture but used as a holding basin for unwanted water. When moisture invades a ceiling, it can leave a stain. Discolorations can take a while to develop. A sudden change in a ceiling's shape, however, can mean water from a storm is pushing the center of the ceiling down with its weight.

SERVPRO technicians know which are the most effective ways for these situations. From drilling holes behind a cabinet, at the base of walls, or to drain a water-laden ceiling, as well as many other techniques that help restore homes and mitigate water damage to prevent further destruction, we use the latest in technology and restoration science to make everything “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol can help you protect your home in Morrison City, Colonial Heights, or Walnut Hill from the many different effects of water damage. Contact us at our emergency services line, (423) 245-5552, which is answered 24/7, year-round.

Click here for more about Bristol.

Our Technicians Explain Several Reasons Why You Need To Contact Us After A Water Damage Incident In Your Kingsport Home

4/6/2019 (Permalink)

Just give our crew a call at (423) 245-5552 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can come quickly and fix things for you.

Reasons Water Removal May be Needed For Your Kingsport Home

Water damage in your Kingsport home occurs when excess water starts to pool where it shouldn’t. Several factors can make this excess water, and therefore, contribute to damage to your structure. When you know what the potential causes are, you can take precautionary steps to help you avoid a water loss. You can also spot an issue once it arises and gets it fixed before it has a chance to do additional damage.

The faster you see a problem, the less work and extraction there is. Either way, water cleanup needs to be done in your Kingsport home, and you should hire the help of a professional remediation company to do the job. SERVPRO staff is available to help you at any time with the experience and knowledge that you would expect from a reputable company.

A common cause of water damage in your home is broken hoses and pipes. Things such as aging pipes, a burst water main, or ice maker supply lines and washing machine supply hoses that fail certainly ruin your day. It is a good idea to purchase copper pipes and braided metal lines to replace the original ones, as they hold up much better so you can avoid accidents.

No matter what has happened, SERVPRO techs can help you get your home dry and back in its usual condition. We have various tools to help us get the water out, including moisture meters and sensors to find any hidden moisture, truck-mounted pumps to get rid of any standing water over a few inches deep, plus air movers and dehumidifiers to dry everything back out. We also work promptly, so we avoid additional damage being done to your structure, such as mold growth.

Another common reason for water damage in your home includes broken toilets and overflowing bathtubs. Children are big culprits, so your best defense is to watch them! Water is fascinating to children, especially when it is flowing over the toilet and tub rims.

Sewer backups, unfortunately, happen as well. Tree roots can invade and clog your drain lines. Using an enzyme drain treatment to flush out your lines every month during the spring and summer months when tree roots grow the most is a good idea to avoid this kind of catastrophe.

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol can help you dry your home in Bristol, Morrison City, or Blountville after a water damage emergency, no matter what type it is. Just give our crew a call at (423) 245-5552 as soon as you realize there is an issue so we can come quickly and fix things for you.

Click here for more about Kingsport.

How to Remediate Water Damage in Your Bristol Home

3/10/2019 (Permalink)

Don't stress about water damage in your home, call SERVPRO for help today.

SERVPRO Drying Out Water Damaged Bristol Homes

After an inside plumbing disaster, Bristol homeowners need more than simply using a water-vac to pull water off the floor, open the doors and windows, and rent a rug shampooer from the local big box store. To completely restore a home takes a professional restoration service.
 
Drying out a home with water damage in Bristol requires attention to four key factors that affect humidity. SERVPRO restoration specialists train to analyze each one, so they know which drying methods and equipment they need to use in each home. It all comes down to HEAT.
 
Humidity levels are determined by the level of water vapor in the air in a home compared its capacity. A level of 60 percent or higher indicates the air is saturated. That greatly slows evaporation and increases drying time. Specialists use dehumidifiers to reduce the humidity level in each affected room. Properly working dehumidifiers can lower the level up to 20 percent every 24 hours.
 
Evaporation is the natural process of water converting to vapor. With large amounts of water, it is very slow. Our SERVPRO specialists use pumps and smaller extraction devices to remove the bulk of the standing water. Once they get the amount to less than two inches in depth, the rate evaporation rapidly increases. They can also augment the rate of evaporation with dehumidifiers and using exhaust fans to increase movement, forcing saturated air outside the home.
 
Air Movement can also be increased using air movers to force warm, dry air throughout affected rooms and across damp surfaces like walls, tables, and countertops to gently increase the rate of evaporation as well. The combination of air movers and fans to increase air movement is also very useful to dry out clothing in a gentle manner which does not damage the fabric.
 
Temperature is also an important factor, especially in cold weather. Since the preferred range to dry home and property is 70 to 90 degrees, we try to engage the HVAC system if it is operational carefully. If not, then specialists use space heaters to raise the internal temperature. They carefully monitor the temperature in every affected room to keep it under 80 degrees on the first day; however, since a higher temperature can increase the humidity.
 
At SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol, we use every tool and method available to return every residence to a dry, safe condition for families to live in once again. If you have had a recent water issue in your home, call us at (423) 245-5552 to schedule a visit. We are here for you.

Click here for more about Bristol.

Give SERVPRO a Ring When You Want Dependable Water Restoration Services

12/2/2018 (Permalink)

Our team will respond immediately when water damage strikes!

We Provide Dependable Water Cleanup Services In Bristol

The hose on your large-size portable dishwasher came loose during the rinse cycle, and water now stands all over your kitchen floor. Contacting skilled and trained professionals, like us, as soon as possible can lessen damages to your property. Plus, quick action by you may also help lower restoration costs. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster and can restore your home when possible.

The water cleanup services SERVPRO provides in Bristol are efficient and reliable and can help in this type of situation. In this case, our crew may utilize mops, portable extractors, pumps, vacuums or wands to remove water fast. If necessary, we can employ trunk-mounted extractors to eliminate water quickly. The technicians may also utilize probes and sensors to detect hidden moisture from behind the lower walls and baseboards and from under the floor tiles. Wet materials can ruin your kitchen floor and sub-flooring. Plus, it can cause mold growth and rot, which makes calling us to do the job a wise decision.

Once our SERVPRO team removes all excess water from the premises, they can begin the drying phase of the restoration process. The techs can use various pieces of equipment such as heaters, professional air movers or high-velocity axial fans to force moisture from the structure, which helps enhance evaporation and dryness. Our crew members may also employ dehumidifiers to help bring down the level of humidity inside the affected area. This step can also help increase drying.

We set goals to get work fast during the extraction and drying phases, which can prevent further damages to your home. It is our policy to remove water and dry structures as quickly as we can. Whenever possible, you can trust our team to return your kitchen to its preloss state. We aim to make it look, “Like it never even happened.”

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol is close by and ready to serve your area as well as surrounding cities that includes Blountville, Colonial Heights, Walnut Hill, and Blair Gap. Our teams are experts when it comes to water cleanup emergencies. Contact us 24/7 at (423) 245-5552 at any time of the day or night.

For more on Bristol, click here. 

How To Recover From A Water Damage Emergency In Colonial Heights With Help From The Professionals At SERVPRO

9/27/2018 (Permalink)

Proper water cleanup is essential in ensuring your home is restored and reduce additional damage.

Ensuring Proper Water Cleanup In Your Colonial Heights Home

Proper water cleanup is essential in ensuring your home is restored and reduce additional damage. You need trained personnel using specialized equipment to ensure that the restoration work in your home is done effectively and lower possible structural or health hazards. It is essential to understand how we work in Colonial Heights to return properties to their preloss condition.

Proper drying is vital during water cleanup in Colonial Heights. Some areas of your home may require specialized drying and our SERVPRO technicians have the expertise to meet those requirements. Attics and crawl spaces, for example, can be challenging to deal with because they are often difficult to access. The access door is usually small and passing through the equipment may prove challenging. If we encounter a scenario, we might have to perform minor demolitions and put in place appropriate submersible pump to remove the standing water before moving on to the next step. After that, our team determines the best way to dry the floor and its components.

Dehumidification is one of the procedures that we perform when drying your property. A flexible hose can be used as a duct to move air into inaccessible areas of your home when using a dehumidifier. The SERVPRO technicians often use a light gauge sheet metal that is cut to fit the Dehumidifiers’ outlet. Dry air is, therefore, able to reach inaccessible areas of your home ensuring proper cleanup and drying.

Document drying is critical when it comes to proper water cleanup. Wet documents need to be stored in a freezer facility to stop further damage and to give our team time to determine the drying procedure to use. Documents often require drying through sublimation, and it can be time-consuming, especially when the level of damage is extensive.

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol is a locally owned and operated company that is strategically located to help you with water cleanup emergencies. Call us at (423) 245-5552 to get trained personnel with adequate equipment to help you.

Click here for more about Colonial Heights.

The Benefits Of Professional Restoration When Your Colonial Heights Home Needs Water Removal

7/31/2018 (Permalink)

Water loss events in your home occur from multiple sources including natural disasters like flooding or disasters like appliance malfunctions.

The Benefits Of Professional Restoration

Water loss events in your home occur from multiple sources including natural disasters like flooding or more homemade disasters like appliance malfunctions. Overcoming the kind of high volumes of water that can end up in your Colonial Heights residence after an unfortunate circumstance like this can prove a challenge, but with professional restoration assistance, the situation is simpler to manage.

With water disasters in the home, many homeowners choose to attempt to clean up the mess on their own and do what they can to dry out the area. There are a couple of different reasons why home solutions are less effective than professional restoration for your Colonial Heights water removal and restoration work.

The first of these considerations is that most homeowners have very little idea about the reach of the damage that their home actually faces. While you can treat the issues that you can see, with high volumes of water present, a considerable amount of damage lies under flooring, in wall cavities, and above ceiling material. Our SERVPRO technicians employ thermal imagery to see beyond these obstructions to find lingering moisture and dampness.

Another thing to consider is the lack of the appropriate equipment to effectively restore your home following a water loss incident. Some substantial concerns require extraction tools that are much stronger than wet-vacs and portable sump pumps. With high volumes of pooled water, the most efficient approach is a truck-mounted pump from our SERVPRO fleet of vehicles.

One of the final considerations is the likelihood that your insurance company is going to encourage you to seek out the work of a professional restoration company rather than attempting to do the work on your own. This approach better guarantees the quality of the restoration and that the job gets finished efficiently and correctly.

You might not consider the ways that you can face water damage on your own in your house, as you can already appreciate the benefits of choosing professional assistance. No matter which side of the fence you are on, our SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol water damage restoration technicians can help you to return your home to preloss conditions quickly. Give us a call anytime that you need us at (423) 245-5552.

Click here for more about Colonial Heights.

Packing Out Your Home During Water Removal At Your Colonial Heights Home

5/23/2018 (Permalink)

Whether a pipe burst in your plumbing or an appliance came disconnected unexpectedly, there are multiple reasons why you might require water removal.

Packing Out Your Home During Water Removal

While no one wants to think about the likelihood of substantial water damages in their Colonial Heights residence, it is often a wise practice to prepare for what you might do in the event that it occurs. While it would be customary to reach out to your home insurance company to begin the necessary steps to afford the repairs and restoration you require, it might also fall to you to get that same professional outfit at your home and getting to work on the problems that you face.

Whether a pipe burst in your plumbing or an appliance came disconnected unexpectedly, there are multiple reasons why you might require water removal services for your Colonial Heights home. The right team for the job is one that can respond quickly to these emergencies and work to keep the contents of your home, as well as its structural elements, from getting irreparably damaged as much as possible.

From the moment that our SERVPRO team responds to your call, we start working to determine the full scope of the damage that your home faces. Our technicians understand that water extraction is a critical component to the restoration your home needs, and employs pumps and wet-vacs (among other specialized equipment) to begin removing the water from the area.

If this affected area has contents which could become highly damaged by the present pooled water, packing out these items is a common practice of our SERVPRO team. This service takes these items to a nearby facility for concentrated restoration (where needed) and opens up the area inside of your home for the right personnel and equipment to get the water removed and the area thoroughly dried.

Once the moisture and dampness have all gotten eliminated with air movers, dehumidification machines, and other equipment, we can safely bring the removed items back into your home and place them how they originally were.

When you have substantial water damage in your home, time is of the essence to get the situation handled. You can count on the emergency response team that we have at SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol. Our technicians are available 24/7 by calling (423) 245-5552.

Click here for more about Colonial Heights.

A Window Was Left Open And Caused Water Damage In Your Long Island Family Room

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

While accidents can happen, it is not good when they lead to trouble such as water damage.

Water Damage In Your Family Room

While accidents can happen, it is not good when they lead to trouble such as water damage. Your family room is a place where televisions, game systems, and other valuable belongings are stored. It is where your family gathers to spend time together. However, if a window gets left open during a severe storm, and water makes its way inside, you may find yourself with a room filled with water instead of your family.

Leaving the water damage in your Long Island family room for too long can cause further problems. Electronics can break when exposed to water, wood can warp, and furniture can become mildewy. When water damage impacts your home, it should be dealt with as quickly as possible, so extra damage cannot be done over time. Fortunately, this situation can be addressed professionally with a simple phone call.

At SERVPRO we strive to get to your home quickly after your call. Our employees can be there within hours. If there are any pools of water on your hardwood floors, we can extract them first so we may begin to dry out the structure of your home and your belongings. SERVPRO uses advanced trade-tools such as air movers, ventilation box fans, and desiccant dehumidifiers to reduce the moisture levels inside of your home.

We can create drying spaces based on the unique structure of your home. If we find a patch of your hardwood floor remains wet after the structure of your home has been dried, we can create a fix for that situation. A standard solution is to create a tent of polyethylene so that the dehumidifiers are removing moisture from the air in a concentrated space. Here at SERVPRO, if we hit a snag in our drying plan, we are determined to find a solution.

If an open window allows water to damage your home, do not hesitate. Phone SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol at (423) 245-5552. Day or night, we can quickly arrive at your home to help return it to its pre-damaged condition.

Click here for more about Long Island.

What to Do When a Dishwasher Leaks in Your Bristol Home and Causes Water Damage

4/8/2018 (Permalink)

Dishwashers are a necessary part of the modern home. Should yours fail and dump water onto your kitchen floor, contact SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Arrives to Assess and Then Dry Out Your Water Damaged Property

Water damage can quietly sneak up on you from leaks in your home without you ever being aware of it. When a situation like that arises, it can quickly cause a headache. However, the problem can become even worse when it is your dishwasher that broke and leaked water all over your kitchen floor while you were away at work. The liquid can end up sitting for the entirety of the day, and during that time it has free reign to soak into your floors, walls, and cupboards. Fortunately, there is qualified help near you to assist.
 
While you are away at work, the stagnant pool can cause water damage to your Bristol home. Excess water can encourage the growth of dangerous mold, cause rot, and weaken the structure of your residence. While the water might seem to be gone, the truth is that is has absorbed into your belongings and they are holding that moisture. However, our IICRC-certified technicians know how to tackle excessive moisture content and water damage.
 
SERVPRO is a leader in the restoration and cleanup services industry. Our technicians are equipped with advanced drying technology. Through the use of air movers, dehumidifiers, and axial fans, we can create an environment that encourages evaporation. An environment that is not too moist is essential for drying out your furnishings and belongings. Without the creation of an ideal environment, the water can just find something else nearby to sink into instead.
 
Once SERVPRO receives your call, we can send out our technicians immediately. Once at the scene, they can address the spots of your home that need to be dried and begin to work as soon as possible. We strive to get to work as quickly as we can because water damage, like other damages, is better addressed sooner than later.
 
When an appliance breaks in your home, call SERVPRO of the Kingsport / Bristol area at (423) 245-5552. We strive to return your home to its preloss condition as quickly as we can.

Click here for more information on the city of Bristol.

Water Damage Cleanup in Your Colonial Heights Home from Sink Overflow

1/26/2018 (Permalink)

An overflowing sink in your home can cause extensive damage and requires immediate professional restoration services.

SERVPRO Thoroughly Restores Your Home after Water Damage

An overflowing sink can create more than just a big wet mess in your Colonial Heights home. If it gets out of control or goes unnoticed for a while, it can result in severe water damage to your property and flooding inside your home. If it is in an upstairs bathroom, you are possibly looking at damage to the room underneath it as well.

Water damage like this to your Colonial Heights home is a big job and should be left to the professionals to clean up. With our experience and training, SERVPRO knows where to find any hidden moisture inside walls and ceilings. We have all the tools to get your home dry again, plus get rid of any additional damage, such as mold growth.

After arriving at your home, our first step is extracting any standing water. If needed, we have truck-mounted pumps to help us do this job. The water is removed, and we can then see if any materials in your structure need replacing.

SERVPRO techs also look for any hidden moisture. Using special infrared cameras and moisture detectors we can find any water that has made its way into walls and ceilings. This water is also cleaned up, and if we detect any mold growth, we clean that with solvents and disinfect the affected area.

Thoroughly drying your structure is also necessary, as pumps do not get rid of everything. We need to return the air inside your home to its normal humidity as well. Industrial dehumidifiers, fans, and air-movers help us to get your home dried out again. These machines are checked on a daily basis and moved when needed to ensure the fastest drying time.

Once the drying process is complete, our IICRC certified technicians use special cleaning agents and deodorizing materials to treat any areas of the home which were affected. Water may have damaged materials in your home such as subflooring or drywall. If needed, we work with a contractor to reconstruct the areas that need replacing to get your home to its preloss condition.

SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol understands how overwhelming any water damage can be in your home in Bristol, Marilyn Hills, or Blountville. That is why we are available at any time to help you out when you give us a call at (423) 245-5552.

Click here to learn more about Colonial Heights, Tennessee.

Trusted Water Damage Restoration Services in Blountville

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

Finding flooded areas in your home can be downright frightening. Contact SERVPRO for dedicated remediation efforts and restoration services.

Our SERVPRO Technicians Thoroughly Remediate Water Damage in Your Home

If you are a resident of Blountville and you happen to experience a water damage incident, you have to treat everything as an emergency. Contacting licensed restoration providers is highly recommended so that the damaged areas can be pre-inspected and mitigating measures put in place. Some of the dangerous situations to address at that time include deteriorated subfloors, falling ceilings, and electrical hazards.
 
Water damage in Blountville may lead to standing water on your property which has to be pumped out using appropriate pumps. Our SERVPRO technicians who operate in the area carefully examine the damaged area and check whether there is any standing water in the crawl spaces, walls, and floors below it. A moisture meter is used to determine the extent of water penetration in your property. During that process, the technicians move and block your furniture as required. Detaching the carpets and extracting water from the surface flooring also takes place.
 
After completing water extraction, treating the surfaces follows. Here, appropriate antimicrobial and deodorizing products are used to treat floors and carpets. Before treating a carpet, it is necessary to examine damages like visible mold, bad seams, and delamination. If the carpet cannot be salvaged because of too much damage, you may be advised to do a replacement. At this point, the SERVPRO technicians will also remove stains from your furniture.
 
Drying wet surfaces is a crucial goal of the restoration, and for that to happen, technicians may position air movers to facilitate the flow of air. Based on IICRC standards, the professionals determine the number and size of dehumidifiers to put in place. The work of the dehumidifiers is to move dry air into the affected areas and increase the rate of evaporation.
 
After finishing the job, our technicians from SERVPRO ensure that all supplies and tools that are not needed at the site are put away. Additionally, we make sure your property is ready for use by removing all the debris.
 
SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol is here to attend to all your mold, storm, fire and water damage disasters. Call us at (423) 245-5552 to learn more about our restoration and cleaning options.

For more information regarding Blountville, click here

Science Project Mishaps Turn Water Damage into an In-Home Experiment for Bristol Households

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Many projects can erupt and send water and other materials onto your ceiling and living room couches. Contact SERVPRO right away after damage.

Professionals Quickly Assess and Remediate Damage and Moisture Levels in Your Home

Science projects are part of almost every grade level's activities because learning about science is much more enjoyable and memorable with hands-on experience. Students in Bristol often prepare their projects at home. As these projects progress, accidents happen, unexpected chemical reactions occur, and little siblings and pets touch forbidden tools and models.
 
Parents can help protect their homes from water damage in Bristol during science project season by providing waterproof sheeting under the area used by their child. Inspecting for cracks, especially along seams, of aquariums, water bottles, and other containers intended for use can cut down the risk, but spills can still happen.
 
While water from bottles can ruin your floor quickly, water sprayed into the air can end up on ceilings and walls. If water is part of a projectile-centered project, furniture can also take a hit or two. We can help clean up any water damage caused by your junior scientist. Walls and ceilings, as well as carpeting, furniture, and other belongings all react to water in different ways. We have a SERVPRO technician for each one, providing homeowners with excellent protection no matter what happened.
 
Based on research and scientific developments, our protocols work well to eliminate damage-causing water. The process of earning our IICRC certificates in Water Damage Restoration (WRT) teaches us an enormous amount regarding the science behind water damage and the best methods we can use to mitigate the damage in someone's home. Experienced in using the equipment needed to restore a living room after an accident involving a science project or other water event, our employees quickly resolve the situation and prevent larger problems from developing.
 
When water is not cleaned up, secondary water damage becomes much more likely to happen. Mold is only one kind of microbe that can grow out of control in the presence of water and increased moisture. Stopping it before it can begin protects you from extra expenses.
 
Call (423) 245-5552 as soon as possible after a significant spill or accident. SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol responds to water damage emergencies in our community ready to take care of the problem, no matter how large or small.

For more information regarding Bristol, click here

Fast And Timely Water Removal Can Reduce Damages In Your Overflowing Bristol Residence

7/6/2017 (Permalink)

When a pipe has burst apart, or a tub has overflowed, your home needs to have that excess water removed as quickly as possible.

Quick Water Removal Can Reduce Damages

SERVPRO is Faster To Any Size Disaster, and this quality provides many benefits for homeowners of waterlogged residences. When a pipe has burst apart, or a tub has overflowed, your home needs to have that excess water removed as quickly as possible.

Homes in Bristol that have excess water from disasters such as pipe failures and forgotten tubs dry out best when water removal services from SERVPRO are the first part of the entire process. Pumping out any water that is visible upon our arrival helps us gain a better visual so we can more easily assess the extent of the overall damage.

Larger amounts of porous materials require more aggressive drying methods than materials that are less porous. Our experience benefits homeowners in many different kinds of disasters that can damage a home by giving us insight into how best proceed in almost any type of situation imaginable, and overflowing toilets and tubs, exploding water heaters, burst pipes, and flooding from natural sources are only a few of those catastrophes.

Removing water starts the process, but then we need to move toward removing the moisture that has escaped into the air through evaporation. This moisture can find its way into every part of your home and create problems later unless it is captured and removed. Dehumidifiers, heaters, air movers, and even open windows can work wonders when used together. Moisture meters provide us with a beginning readings of areas in your home that are compared to later readings, showing us our progress in drying out your home.

When dry, remaining problems can still exist, such as unusual odors. This is because odors are caused by particles, that although tiny, produce smells when they have been disturbed. We can rectify this problem with odor control methods. Other problems that can remain behind include over-stretched carpeting, and we can fix that problem, also.

Because floors are always saturated in a situation where standing water exists, we take great care in ensuring that these surfaces are completely dry. This prevents warping of wooden floors and sub-flooring. Otherwise, walking in your home may soon become hazardous for your family and guests.

In situations that have left your home partially submerged, call us, SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol at (423) 245-5552. We can begin water removal efforts so that your home is once again as it should be, perfectly dry. Accidents can occur at all hours of the day and night, and because of this, we are always available to take your call.

For more information about Bristol visit http://www.bristoltn.org/.

Prevent Water Damage To Your Bloomingdale Bathroom

4/18/2017 (Permalink)

Bathroom Leaks Lead to Bloomingdale Bathrooms Water Damage--Dial Up SERVPRO for Help

SERVPRO Suggest a Rapid Response to Mitigate the Effects of Water to Your Property

Water damage is a homeowner’s nightmare. Leaks, drips, and floods lead to water-logged carpets, broken furniture, and even structural issues. When it comes to leaks in the home, the bathroom is one of the riskiest areas. There are many potential sources of leaks including a malfunctioning toilet, a burst pipe, a damaged bath seal, or even a bath or faucet left to run and forgotten!
 
It is always best to prevent a leak if you can. Water damage to your Bloomingdale bathroom may be expensive and inconvenient to fix. That is why SERVPRO recommends taking steps to stop it from happening in the first place.
 
Check Your Bathroom Regularly
You can prevent water damage by regularly checking your bathroom. Take the time to look under the sink and inspect the floor around the toilet. Examine shower screens and bath seals for leaks and look out for cracked tiles. Repair any damages quickly – the longer you leave them, the more chance of a problem developing. Replace caulking if need be, always a bathroom problem.
 
Look For Signs Of Leaks
Visible water is not always the first sign of a leak. A musty or damp odor or discoloration to walls and ceilings are also potential signs. If you suspect a leak, it is important to put in a call to SERVPRO straight away. Our IICRC-certified teams use thermal hygrometers, thermal imaging, and specialized moisture probes to examine your home for signs of damp, leaks, and raised humidity.
 
Be Careful With Your Drywall
Damp drywall is a serious issue that requires swift remedy. Water leaks are quickly picked up by drywall and the porous material acts like a sponge, wicking up water and quickly becoming saturated. That leads to wet walls, waterlogged insulation, and damp baseboards or molding.

Softened or bubbled drywall is a sure sign of excess moisture. If in doubt do not delay – our technicians have all the equipment necessary to test your drywall for moisture. If there is a problem, we remove baseboards and insulation so we can thoroughly dry out the wall. Doing this yourself is not only time consuming it can also be costly. Let our experts take care of it – we put everything back “Like it never even happened.”
 
We use plastic sheeting to create a sealed environment for drying. Next, we use air blowers, axial box fans, and dehumidifiers to dry the surface and inside of your bathroom wall. Bathrooms are humid places, so getting the right dehumidifiers in place is vital. Our teams monitor the drying process at every step to restore your wall and minimize the risk of further damage.
 
Do not wait for damage to worsen. If you suspect an issue with water leaks in your bathroom, call SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol at (423) 245-5552 today for assistance.

Dangers Of An Overflowing Bathtub In Bristol

1/26/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage causes the most home insurance claims.

Water Damage Caused By An Overflowing Bathtub

Water damage causes the most home insurance claims. Torrential rains, bursting pipes and bathtub overflows are just a few potential causes for water damage. In fact, water damage is often caused by an overflowing bathtub. There are several reasons why this can happen, but no matter the cause, SERVPRO, a professional water remediation company, will need to step in to help you with the cleanup and restoration.

No matter the cause for your bathtub overflow and water damage, you should know the six major reasons why this event can cause damage to your home in Bristol.

Bacteria Growth
Even if the water is clean, it can still cause bacteria to grow that could be harmful. This threat can develop when a significant amount of time passes before you get it cleaned up. The bacteria can grow with warm temperatures and time.

Leaky Ceilings
If your bathtub is on the second floor, even if the overflow is quickly caught it could make small bubbles in your downstairs ceiling. Water could begin leaking, and you can have discoloration, with some expensive repair bills to go with it. If the amount of water is large, it could make your ceiling sag. Avoid entering the room if this happens, since more water or debris could fall and hurt you. Keep everyone out of the area until you have it fixed by an experienced technician from SERVPRO.

Wet Plasterboard
An overflowing tub can easily damage plasterboard. It can weaken so badly when wet that you cannot fix it, and must be replaced. This can be inconvenient and expensive. If there is a significant amount of water running down the walls, you should shut off the electricity. An electrician and plumber will need to check out the damage in this case along with SERVPRO professionals to ensure the leak is fixed and your home is safe and restored.

Ruined Flooring
Your floors can be ruined as well, especially wood or linoleum. This issue can be difficult to get your home insurance to pay for repairs.

Damp Carpets And Furniture
Water coming through the ceiling can damage appliances and furniture. Mold can start to grow in your furniture and carpeting and can create a bad smell.

Unsafe And Weak Subflooring
Subflooring that has been soaked by water will need to be replaced. This is the only way to ensure your home is dry. Even if it is not completely soaked, even the slightest bit of moisture can create damage. SERVPRO can help you determine if the flooring needs to be replaced, and do the repairs for you.

If your bathtub overflows, shut the source of the water off right away and give SERVPRO of Kingsport / Bristol a call. We understand how damaging water can be and will be out to your property as quickly as possible to prevent more damage. Contact us day or night so we can come out to your home and return it to its state before the accident - (423) 245-5552.

Call SERVPRO if You Have Water Damage

10/17/2016 (Permalink)

If you are forced to deal with water damage inside your home, you probably feel overwhelmed.

If You Have Water Damage, Call SERVPRO

If you are forced to deal with water damage inside your home, you probably feel overwhelmed. The truth is, you might be feeling like you are in over your head because it's easy to find yourself in exactly that type of situation when you are dealing with a home that has been compromised by water damage. When you are in this kind of situation, you need someone that can help you right away. It's simply too much to think about if you try to handle everything on your own. That is why you need us at SERVPRO.

Dealing With What You Can See...And What You Can’t See

One of the most deceiving things about water damage is that it can look like everything is cleaned up and largely unscathed, yet there can be problems brewing that is not necessarily visible to the naked eye.

Finding an effective solution to the problem requires the use of proven techniques that are designed to get rid of the musky, dank odor that usually comes with any water damage. You also have to get rid of things like mold growth and other microbes through an extensive restoration process. If you have experienced water damage in your Colonial Heights home, it is imperative that you get the help you need as quickly as possible. At SERVPRO, you can call us 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

We will extract the water, dry the entire structure and then use our proper restoration and sanitation techniques to ensure that you don't experience any problems related to the water damage from that point forward. We achieve these results by drying, dehumidifying and sanitizing everything, not just what is on the surface. We have years of experience in these techniques. Because of that experience, we can make your home look and smell its best while simultaneously restoring that safe environment that is so important to you and your loved ones.

Contact Us

If you have experienced any water damage, contact us at SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol anytime of the day by calling (423) 245-5552.

Water Damage 101

6/28/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol will respond quickly to your Bluff City water damage and make it "Like it never even happened."

101 Water Damage 

Water damage can describe any large number of possible losses caused by water intrusion into your business or home. No matter how it got there, water can be very destructive, causing the rusting of steel, rotting of wood, de-laminating of materials like plywood and the growth of mold, plus much more. 

Bluff City water damage can be imperceptibly minor and slow like water spots which could appear on your wall or ceiling, or they can be catastrophic and instantaneous like flooding. No matter how fast it happens, water damage is a huge contributor to the loss of property. 

Insurance Coverage 

Your insurance policy may or may not cover costs that are associated with water damage and the water damage restoration process. You should look at your insurance policy before a disaster happens so that you know what is covered and what is not. With floods, you will usually need separate flood insurance. Speak with your insurance agent if you are not sure what your policy covers. 

Remediation 

There are different water removal methods and remediation procedures depending upon the category of water. Because of the destructive nature of water, restoration methods heavily rely on how much water is involved, and how much time the water has been allowed to stay stagnant. Contacting a professional water damage restoration specialist, such as our team at SERVPRO, is the safest way to restore your property that has been damaged by water because our training and experience are extensive. 

Mold Growth 

Slight discolorations on your ceiling or walls might go unnoticed for an extended period of time, but they gradually spread and become more severe. They are often ignored even if they are noticed because it is thought that discoloration is a normal part of wear and tear in a home. However, mold spreads throughout a structure and when it does it can lead to serious health issues. If you suspect at all that you have mold, contact us at SERVPRO so that we can check it out for you. 

If you delay in calling us to help you with your water damage, you will wind up with additional damage to your building. It may cause things that could have been salvaged to no longer be viable; mold will begin to grow and quickly spread through the structure, plus you may wind up with a lot more structural damage than you would have had we been able to get out there in a timely fashion. This is why it is important to act quickly when you experience any water damage. Not only will your repair costs rise significantly, but you will also have much more loss than you would have. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

So when you experience water damage of any kind, do not hesitate to contact us at SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol by calling (423) 245-5552 any time of day or night. We will be to your property quickly so we can begin assessing the damages and work out a plan for remediation. 

Piney Flats Water Damage - Five Things You Should Know About Water Damage In Piney Flats

5/5/2016 (Permalink)

If water damage strikes your Piney Flats home, SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol will be there to clean and restore your property!

Five Tips You Should Know About Piney Flats Water Damage 

Water damage in Piney Flats is a common problem that occurs in many homes, and if your house has been affected, you need to take immediate action. Fortunately, there are many renowned Piney Flats water damage companies that can handle the cause of the problem be it hurricanes, blocked drains or broken pipes. The signs of water damage can show up at any time, and it is advisable not to ignore them. A strange blemish of color or a soft spot inside the wall are some of the signs of water damage that can cause to subsidence of your home’s foundation. Here are some things you ought to know about water damage. 

1. You Are Not Always going to Notice 

After your house floods and you drain the water out, you often feel like everything is back to normal. However, this is not always the case since the signs of water damage are not always visible. Mold, decay, and even structural damage can be occurring beneath the surface, yet you are not aware. 

2. You Want To Catch It Early 

Water damage can spread fast and what was just as small spot can swiftly escalate into a large issue. When you suspect there has been water damage in your home even on a tiny scale, it is advisable to have a Piney Flats water damage do a survey. In so doing, they can reverse the damage very early in its progress. 

3. The Source Is Not Always Obvious 

The cause of the damage in your home is not always straightforward. In addition to all-out floods, there are also other small occurrences that can lead to water damage. Faulty pipes, rain, and cracks in the foundation can also damage your home. 

4. It Takes Experts To Fix It 

Handling water damage is not easy if you are on your own. It is always advisable to allow professionals to deal with damage repair. A restoration expert has the skills to survey the damage and give you an approximation of the work and costs. By doing this, you get a vivid picture of what is necessary to make your home safe and sound.

5. It Helps to Be Aware and Stay Informed 

One way to avert water damage and save money is by being aware of the environment you live in. Know what the pipes in your home are made of to determine how prone they are to leaks. It is also essential to be familiar with the climate and weather so that you know the appropriate preventive measures to take. 

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

For speedy and professional restoration after water damage, call SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol at (423) 245-5552. The company has dedicated restoration teams and equipment to clean your home in no time. 

5 Steps to Water Damage Restoration in Mount Carmel

11/24/2015 (Permalink)

10% of homes in the U.S. have leaks that waste at least 90 gallons of water per day.

Mount Carmel Water Damage Restoration Steps

 The Five Basic Steps Of Water Damage Restoration

Residential property owners who have experienced water damage in Mt Carmel know how challenging the matter can be. However, learning more about water damage and the restoration processes that can reverse it empowers homeowners to get their property back in pristine condition quickly. Learn more about the five basic steps of water damage restoration by reading the short outline provided for you below:

 1. Call A Water Damage Restoration Company.

 The first thing you should do upon recognizing signs of water damage on your Mt Carmel property is to call for help. If you don't contact a water damage restoration company immediately, you run the risk of weakening your property's structural integrity and exposing it to a mold invasion. In addition to contacting a restoration company, be sure to call your insurance agent. She or he will provide you with information regarding how to quickly and correctly file your claim.

 2. Property Assessment.

 After you call the Mt Carmel water damage restoration company, contractors will come to your property and complete a thorough assessment. The assessment is designed to provide the remediation specialists with a clear understanding of the extent of your water damages . Once this information is attained, the contractors will develop and implement a strategic plan to expedite and optimize the restoration process.

 3. Water Removal.

 After the strategic plan is drafted, the contractors will move forward with the water removal process. This process will involve the use of specialized, professional equipment like vacuums and power pumps.

 4. Drying And Dehumidifying.

 Once the water removal process is complete, the restoration specialists will move forward with the drying and dehumidifying work. Generally, your walls and floors will retain excess water. This water can cause swelling, warping, or the complete breakdown of your property. For this reason, your restoration team will work with skill and speed to eliminate all remaining moisture through the use of industrial equipment.

 5. Cleaning.

 The final step in the water damage restoration process is thorough cleaning. Your restoration team will offer a wide range of services to get your house in safe, sanitary condition. Some of the services offered will include disinfectant, antibacterial, and antimicrobial treatments. Deodorization and odor removal treatments can also be offered.

 When you find that your residential property is adversely impacted by water damage, it's time to implement the right solutions. The fast, effective solution is calling a team of excellent, expedient contractors to restore your property. As a team of IICRC-certified professionals, SERVPRO's technicians will quickly and correctly complete all of the work necessary to restore your home.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

 As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol is strategically located to respond quickly to your flood and water emergency event. When water damage occurs in Mt Carmel, Blountville, or Bluff City, we have the resources and personnel to help. Call us today! (423) 245-5552

Dealing with a Water Leak in Blountville

8/13/2015 (Permalink)

Keeping out the Water Cuts Down on Water Damage

Initial Action for a Water Leak in Blountville

Having a water leak within your Blountville home can be an incredibly difficult thing to have to handle on your own. Water leaks can be either minor or major and can easily result in flooding and water damage. Flooding, in itself, can be damaging because of a large amount of items that can be ruined by the water. One of the best things you can do, and as long as it is safe, is to remove any items from the area that may get ruined because of a water leak. If there are expensive electronics within the vicinity, it is vital that you pick these up and remove them to a safer area.

The most important thing to keep in mind when it comes to a flood or water leak is to protect yourself. If there is electricity within the area, make sure that you stay out of the water and contact a professional company like SERVPRO right away. You should always make sure that you and your loved ones are safe when doing this type of work. The last thing you want is to be in a dangerous area because there is a flood within your home.

If you can contain the water that is accumulating from the leak, this is something that you will also want to do. You can use towels, sandbags or anything else to keep the water at bay and to contain it to one specific area. Thus, you're decreasing the amount of water damage to the rest of your home. With less damage, it is beneficial to saving yourself a lot of time and money later on with getting these types of things repaired and restored to their original condition.

Once the leak and flooding have been contained it is vital that you contact the professionals at SERVPRO so that they can take care of the damage for you. They can deal with water damaged walls, flooring, furniture, cabinetry and other items that might have been affected by the flood or leak. Having the water damage repaired by the experts from SERVPRO means that all the water and moisture will be extracted from your home.  This water removal will prevent potential future problems caused by mold or mildew.

Locally Owned Company with National Resources

We live and work in this Blountville community too; we might even be neighbors. As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol is close by and ready to respond to your flood or water damage emergency.

We specialize in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business.  Call us
for help.  (423) 245-5552

Basement Flooding: Prevention & Action Guide for Kingsport

8/13/2015 (Permalink)

Too Much Water Means a Call for Help

Action Plan for a Kingsport Flooded Home

Basements are susceptible to floods at any time of the year which could cause water damage to your Kingsport home. However, a good percentage of flooding occurs during the spring as a result of snow-melt and spring storms. Flooding may also occur during dry seasons as a result of blockages in the sewer system around the home. The following are some basic facts every homeowner should know about basement flooding:

• Keep roof gutters and downspouts clean and direct rainwater at least six feet away from the house’s foundation.
• Purchase and install an automatic energy generator that will provide the house with continual energy during blackouts.
• Install a sump pump that activates automatically to prevent water from collecting in the home or basement.
• Use a sealant to close cracks in the walls, floor, windows, and foundation of the basement to help prevent water damage.
• A porous pavement should be installed around the home to assist with the percolation and drainage of rainwater and thawed snow.
• Regularly review your home drainage system and plumbing to ensure that it is functioning properly

Homeowners should not attempt a flood cleanup on their own. Therefore, have the number of a water damage specialist such as SERVPRO-on hand. While you are awaiting their arrival, do the following:

• Disconnect the home’s electrical power, if possible. Avoid walking through floodwater as this could lead to electrocution.
• Avoid contaminated floodwater. However, if special circumstances require you to come in contact with it, use protective gear.
• If a sump pump is installed, wait for it to drain the floodwater if electricity can be safely restored to the home.
Attempt to dry out water damaged  upholstery and furniture as soon as is feasible. If they are wet for more than 48 hours, they should be disposed of since a mold risk exists.

When a flood occurs, time is of the essence. The best way for you to determine the full extent of the damages caused by fire, smoke, mold, water, and other disasters is to contact the water damage experts at SERVPRO immediately.

Locally Owned and Operated

We are proud to be an active member of this community. SERVPRO of Kingsport/Bristol is locally owned and operated so we’re already nearby and ready to help Kingsport residents and business owners with any-sized flood and water damage emergencies.

Emergency Contact

The restoration process begins when you call us. Our consultant will guide you through the crisis and may ask several questions to help us better understand the equipment and resources that may be needed.  (423) 245-5552.

Post Flood Damage Safety Tips for your Bristol home.

5/22/2015 (Permalink)

Water and flood damage.

Bristol Flood Damage Safety Tips

Floods are devastating, and dealing with one that damages your home can be a major pain. The big problem with floods is that the damage they cause can linger long after they are gone, so it's important to follow some post flood damage safety tips.

Cleaning up

Floodwaters that infiltrate your come can bring a toxic soup of sewage, gasoline, toxic chemicals and all kinds of pathogens. When you are doing flood restoration, you need to take safety precautions. If you have to wade into floodwaters to retrieve items or to help get the water out, make sure to wear protective clothing. And if you spend a significant amount of time in a room that has sustained flood damage, you should wear a respirator.

Throw out anything porous that came in contact with floodwaters. This includes carpet, upholstered furniture, large rugs, mattresses, paper items and even drywall. Clothing and small rugs that can be machine-washed are OK to keep, although they will need a thorough washing.

You have to make sure you thoroughly dry out the space to prevent mold growth. Ventilate the room and bring in large fans to run for at least 24 hours and longer if necessary. After that, you should use dehumidifiers to suck any remaining moisture out of the air. Before you do any restoration work, such as reinstalling drywall or carpet, use a moisture meter to make sure the room is free of moisture. If there is still moisture in studs, for example, it can lead to mold growth later on.

Once the area is fully dry, you should clean all surfaces thoroughly with a heavy-duty cleaner, preferably one that has bleach in it. This should include walls, floors, cabinets, counter tops and any solid-surface furniture that you salvaged.

Boil and treat your water

If you have a well, floodwaters may have infiltrated your water supply. Immediately after the flood, you should boil all water before drinking or cooking with it. As soon as possible, get your well water tested. If high levels of pathogens and particles are found, you will need to have your water source treated before you can safely use it again.

When your Kingsport home has water damage from flooding, we have the expertise and equipment to properly handle emergencies including Kingsport water damage, Bristol water removal, Mt Carmel water cleanup, Kingsport flood damage, Bristol flood cleanup, Mt Carmel flood restoration, Kingsport SERVPRO water cleanup, Bristol SERVPRO flood cleanup, Mt Carmel SERVPRO flood damage.

If you have questions about flood or water damage, call us today at 423-245-5552.