Trust SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties to handle water damage

8/20/2024 (Permalink)

From homes to businesses, you can trust SERVPRO to handle any-size water disaster.

Water is a part of life. It can be beautiful, but it can also be destructive, especially when it creates a disaster in your home or business.

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties has the expertise and equipment to remove water, dry out the structure, and build your home or business back to preloss condition.

You can trust SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties to respond quickly to mitigate the damage.

Once our team arrives at your home or business, our trained professionals will assess the water damage and explain the severity of the damage. We will talk you through the restoration process, and if necessary, we will also assist with stopping the source of the water damage. Our industry-trained team members will create a plan of action to successfully restore your property.

We have the capability to handle any-size water disaster. From homes to schools and from commercial warehouses to apartment complexes, we'll be there with a team ready to meet your needs.

When water damage occurs, call SERVPRO!

6/27/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Vans in Parking lot

The professionals at SERVPRO® of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties are here if you find yourself with water damage. 

With water sources at your sink, dishwasher and refrigerator there are several ways for water to affect areas that you might not be able to see. 

Water can run behind base cabinets or under your refrigerator and can be virtually undetectable for some time. 

Did you know that SERVPRO can potentially save solid floors if water damage is caught quickly enough? With a dry mat system that is able to extract water through the floors before water begins to warp and twist flooring.  This means a tremendous amount of money saved on a claim as we can restore those floors rather than replace all of them. 

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties does more than just repair homes or businesses from water damage. Call us today at 618-435-8200 or tell your insurance agent that you prefer SERVPRO!

Recovering From Flood Damage | SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties

5/24/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties is here to help your home or business recover from flood damage

Floods can be devastating, leaving behind significant damage to homes and properties. In the aftermath of a flood, it's essential to prioritize safety and take appropriate steps to clean up and restore your property. As experts in flood damage restoration, we at SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties understand the challenges homeowners and businesses face during this difficult time. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share valuable tips and insights on how to safely clean up after a flood, drawing from our experience and expertise in the field.

Safety First

Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with flood cleanup efforts. Before you begin, it's crucial to assess potential hazards and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your family. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

1. Assess the Risk: Before entering the flooded area, assess the risk of electrical hazards, structural damage, and contamination. If there's a risk of electric shock, turn off the power supply to the affected area before entering.
2. Wear Protective Gear: Remember to wear appropriate protective gear, including rubber gloves, rubber boots, and safety goggles, to protect yourself from exposure to contaminated water and debris.
3. Avoid Contaminated Water: Floodwater can be contaminated with bacteria, chemicals, and other hazardous substances. Avoid direct contact with floodwater and wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water if you come into contact with it.
4. Use Caution Around Debris: Be cautious when navigating through the flooded area, as debris and other objects may be submerged and pose tripping hazards.
5. Seek Professional Help: If the damage is extensive or if you're unsure about how to safely proceed, seek professional assistance from a qualified flood damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties

Assessing the Damage

Once you've ensured your safety, the next step is to assess the extent of the damage caused by the flood. A thorough assessment will help you develop a plan for cleanup and restoration. Here's how to assess the damage effectively:

1. Inspect the Structure: Carefully inspect the structure of your home, including walls, floors, ceilings, and foundation, for signs of damage such as cracks, warping, or shifting.
2. Check Utilities: Inspect electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems for damage. If you suspect any damage to these utilities, refrain from using them until they've been inspected and repaired by a qualified professional.
3. Document the Damage: Take photographs and videos of the damage to document the extent of the flood damage for insurance purposes. Make a detailed inventory of damaged items and belongings.

Removing Water and Debris

Once you've assessed the damage, the next step is water damage restoration. Prompt removal of standing water is essential to prevent further damage and minimize the risk of mold growth. Here's how to safely remove water and debris:

1. Use Pumps and Wet/Dry Vacuums: Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, or buckets to remove standing water from the flooded area. Start by removing as much water as possible to speed up the drying process.
2. Dispose of Debris: Remove debris, mud, and silt from the flooded area using shovels, rakes, and wheelbarrows. Dispose of debris properly according to local regulations.
3. Clean and Sanitize: Thoroughly clean and sanitize the affected area to remove any remaining dirt, bacteria, and contaminants. Use disinfectants and cleaning solutions recommended for flood cleanup.
4. Dry Thoroughly: Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to facilitate drying and ventilation. Ensure that the affected area is completely dry to prevent mold growth and further damage.

Cleaning and Disinfecting 

After removing water and debris, it's essential to clean and disinfect the affected area to eliminate bacteria, mold, and other contaminants. Here are some tips for cleaning and disinfecting after a flood:

1. Clean Surfaces: Clean and scrub all surfaces, including walls, floors, and furniture, with soap and water to remove dirt and debris. Use brushes, mops, and sponges to scrub stubborn stains and residues.
2. Disinfect: Use disinfectants and antimicrobial solutions to kill bacteria, mold, and other pathogens. Pay special attention to areas that came into contact with floodwater, such as floors, walls, and appliances.
3. Launder Fabrics: Wash and disinfect clothing, bedding, and other fabric items that have been exposed to floodwater. Use hot water and laundry detergent to kill bacteria and remove contaminants.
4. Clean HVAC Systems: Clean and disinfect HVAC systems, including air ducts, vents, and filters, to prevent the spread of mold and contaminants throughout the home.
5. Clean and Sanitize Belongings: Clean and sanitize belongings, furniture, and household items that have been affected by floodwater. Use appropriate cleaning products and techniques for different materials.

Restoring and Repairing

Once the cleanup and disinfection process is complete, the next step is to restore and repair the damage caused by the flood. Depending on the extent of the damage, restoration may involve structural repairs, electrical work, and mold remediation. Here's how to restore and repair your home after a flood:

1. Structural Repairs: Assess the structural integrity of your home and address any damage to walls, floors, ceilings, and foundation. Hire a qualified contractor to perform structural repairs as needed.
2. Electrical Work: Have electrical systems inspected and repaired by a licensed electrician to ensure safety and compliance with building codes. Replace damaged wiring, outlets, and electrical appliances as needed.
3. Mold Remediation: If mold is present in your home, hire a professional mold remediation company to safely remove and remediate mold growth. Mold can pose serious health risks and should be addressed promptly and thoroughly.
4. Replace Damaged Items: Replace or repair damaged items and belongings that cannot be salvaged or restored. This may include furniture, appliances, flooring, and personal belongings.

Preventative Measures

After completing the cleanup and restoration process, it's important to take proactive measures to prevent future flooding and water damage. Here are some preventative measures you can take to protect your home:

1. Install Flood Barriers: Consider installing flood barriers or flood gates to prevent water from entering your home during heavy rain or flooding events.
2. Elevate Utilities: Elevate electrical panels, HVAC systems, and other utilities above potential flood levels to minimize damage in the event of a flood.
3. Seal Cracks and Openings: Seal cracks and openings in your home's foundation, walls, and windows to prevent water infiltration during storms.
4. Maintain Gutters and Drains: Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris to ensure proper drainage away from your home. Maintain and clean storm drains to prevent backups and flooding.
5. Invest in Flood Insurance: Consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your home and belongings in the event of a flood. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage.

Conclusion

Cleaning up after a flood can be a daunting and challenging task, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can safely restore your home and protect your family's health and safety. By prioritizing safety, assessing the damage, removing water and debris, cleaning and disinfecting, restoring and repairing, and taking preventative measures, you can navigate the cleanup process effectively and minimize the risk of further damage. Remember, if you're unsure about how to safely proceed or if the damage is extensive, don't hesitate to seek professional assistance from a qualified flood damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties. We are here to help restore your home or business from flood damage. 

How to Deal With Commercial Water Damage to Your Business | SERVPRO® of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties

8/11/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry is your local commercial restoration company. We will always be here to help and get you back in business.

When commercial water damage affects your building, the impact on business can be severe.

Many sources of flooding come from internal sources. Burst pipes or a badly leaking roof can shut you down or ruin interiors and destroy inventory. Damage might also come from a bathroom flooded with sewage backup. Or it could even be an entire floor of offices soaked by a broken sprinkler system.

However, water damage can also affect businesses through natural causes. 

Knowing what to do before disaster strikes make recovering quickly and returning to business easier. Regardless of what source left the water behind, these helpful tips can guide you through handling the problem quickly and as stress-free as possible.

Know Your Building’s Layout

Familiarize yourself with different water cutoff points throughout your property, and ensure you know how to turn off the fire sprinkler system. Locate the main water cutoff valve, and be ready to shut off the entire building’s supply when necessary.

Several people should know this information, including members of the leadership team. This can help you reduce the amount of water that gets inside your business by cutting it off at the source.

Know the Types of Water Involved

When water damage happens, the type of water involved will determine how dangerous the situation is. Knowing what you’re dealing with makes a big difference in the safety of everyone in the building:

White water: This type of water most commonly results from plumbing problems. It’s not considered contaminated and is safe to handle yourself in small amounts.

Gray water: Sink drains and toilet tank overflows produce this type of flooding. The water is contaminated but not considered dangerous.

Black water: Sewage backups and storm flooding are common sources of highly contaminated black water. Always call in a professional to deal with this type of toxic water damage.

Take Action Quickly

Always attempt to identify and shut down the water source as soon as possible. Try to get fresh air circulating by opening windows and doors to expedite the drying and evaporation process. Then alert everyone in the building and outline the affected areas so that no one comes into contact with the water.

After taking these steps, be sure to thoroughly document any visible damage. This will help you speed through the insurance claim process and will be useful when deciding what parts of your building need the most reinforcement.

Remember to Be Patient

The visible water damage in your building is only part of the overall problem. Soaked wall studs, moldy framing and buckled flooring materials are only a few signs of hidden water damage. Any of these indicators should be red flags of potential damage.

If your business experiences water damage, call SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties for a quick response and a shoulder to lean on. Our restoration professionals have extensive training and will work with industry-leading equipment that can dry your building out and get you back into action fast.

The cleanup and drying process can take up to a week, depending on the extent of the moisture, so be patient as our restoration team works through the cleanup and sanitation before beginning repairs. We’ll have your business back to preloss condition before you know it.

When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Call SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties today at (618) 435-8200.

How to Deal With Flood Damage | SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties

6/29/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties is here to help

Floods can be devastating natural disasters, wreaking havoc on homes and properties. Recovering from flood damage requires a well-structured and organized approach to minimize further loss and restore your property to its pre-flood condition. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to handle flood damage effectively. By following these steps, you can navigate the restoration process more efficiently and ensure the safety and well-being of your home and family.

Step 1: Ensure Safety

Before entering your home or property after a flood, prioritize safety. Ensure that the floodwaters have fully receded and it is safe to return. Be cautious of structural damage and potential electrical hazards. Wear appropriate protective gear such as rubber gloves, boots, and face masks to avoid exposure to contaminants in the water.

Step 2: Document the Damage

Once it is safe to enter your property, thoroughly document the flood damage. Take photographs or videos of all affected areas, including structural damage, personal belongings, and appliances. This documentation will be invaluable for insurance claims and aid in the restoration process.

Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the flood damage as soon as possible. Provide them with all necessary details, including the extent of the damage, photographs, and videos. Understand your insurance policy and coverage to ensure you are aware of what is eligible for compensation.

Step 4: Disconnect Utilities

For safety reasons, turn off the main power supply to your property. Additionally, shut off the gas and water supplies to prevent further damage and potential hazards. Contact the appropriate utility companies if you require assistance with these procedures.

Step 5: Remove Standing Water

Begin by removing any standing water from your property. Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, or hire professional water extraction services if necessary. Properly dispose of the water to prevent contamination and further damage.

Step 6: Dry and Ventilate the Property

After removing the standing water, it is crucial to dry out your home or property thoroughly. Open windows and doors to promote air circulation, and use dehumidifiers, fans, and heaters to expedite the drying process. Remove wet carpets, furniture, and other items that can harbor moisture.

Step 7: Clean and Disinfect

Floodwaters can introduce harmful contaminants and pathogens to your home. Clean and disinfect all affected surfaces, including walls, floors, and furniture. Use appropriate cleaning agents, wear protective gear, and follow manufacturer instructions for effective disinfection.

Step 8: Remove Damaged Materials

Inspect your property for damaged materials that need to be removed. This may include drywall, insulation, flooring, and furniture. Discard damaged items properly, following local regulations, and keep a detailed inventory of all disposed of belongings for insurance purposes.

Step 9: Repair and Restore

With the damaged materials removed, assess the structural integrity of your property. Repair any structural damage, including walls, floors, and roofs, with the help of professionals if necessary. Ensure that repairs comply with building codes and regulations.

Step 10: Seek Professional Assistance

Depending on the severity of the flood damage, you may need to engage professional restoration services. Experienced flood damage restoration companies, like SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties, can provide expertise and specialized equipment to expedite the restoration process and mitigate further damage. 

Step 11: Evaluate and Enhance Future Protection

As you restore your property, take the opportunity to evaluate your flood protection measures. Consider implementing strategies such as installing flood barriers, elevating electrical systems, sealing foundation cracks, and landscaping changes to divert water away from your property. Consult with experts or local authorities for guidance on flood mitigation.

Protect Your Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties Home From Water Damage

4/25/2023 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties for water damage remediation.

There are many ways to help protect your home in Jefferson, Franklin & Perry counties from water damages. Water losses occur when water finds its way outside of the appliances you rely on to run your household’s daily needs. When we think about the causes of severe water damage to our homes, we usually think about extreme weather like a hurricane or torrential rains. But the unfortunate reality is that extensive damage is often the result of ordinary household plumbing systems and appliances that fail – and these can be just as destructive to your home as an extreme weather event.

Preventative Measures

Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to help prevent water damage from plumbing problem in your St. Charles home. It is helpful to understand some of the common causes of water damage.

These may include:

• Heating and air-conditioning systems

• Water heaters

• Valves

• Appliances

• Pipes and plumbing fixtures

How to Detect Water Damages

Water damage can often go undetected, even if the telltale signs are there. Plumbing that is housed inside the walls of your home, in less-trafficked areas like a basement or attic, or behind a cabinet or appliance, can easily go unnoticed. That’s why it’s important to check your appliances and plumbing from time to time.

• Know where the main water supply enters your home, locate the main shut-off valve and make sure it’s functioning properly.
• If you will be away from home for an extended period, consider shutting off the water supply, but consult with a heating professional first to understand if doing so will compromise any other systems in your home. Maintain a temperature of at least 55 degrees in your home. Also, if your home is protected by a fire sprinkler system, do not turn off the water to this system, and maintain sufficient heat to prevent a freeze-up.
• Consider having your air-conditioning system inspected regularly by a professional. Check around the unit for indications of leaks. Check the drain lines annually and clean them if they are clogged. Change the air filter annually at a minimum.
• Inspect water heaters, showers, tubs, toilets, sinks, dishwashers, refrigerators and washing machines annually, and have them repaired if there are signs of leaks or corrosion. Be sure to include supply lines, hoses, connections and fittings in the inspection.
• Check caulking around showers, bathtubs, sinks and toilet bases, and make repairs as needed.
• If your refrigerator has an ice machine or water dispenser, check the hose between the wall and the refrigerator to determine if it is pinched or stressed. Also look for signs of leaking or wear and tear.
• Check exposed plumbing (pipes, valves, etc.) for signs of leaking or corrosion. Have any pipe damage fixed immediately to prevent more costly repairs in the future.

For any questions or concerns about water damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties at (618) 435-8200. 

Water damage due to a plumbing issue in your home can be life-changing. But there are some common signs that homeowners can look for, and steps they can take, to help avoid a major water issue at home.

Consider this example:

A homeowner and his family head off for a three-week vacation. While they’re away, a minor toilet leak grows, until it reaches a pace of three gallons of water per minute. By the time the homeowners returned from their three-week vacation, the unaddressed leak had poured more than 30,000 gallons of water into their home. The water ruined furniture, fixtures and irreplaceable family valuables, and rendered the property virtually uninhabitable for an extended period of time.

But this is just a cautionary tale. The following guidance is meant to help you learn about the potential water issues from common plumbing problems and how you can take steps to help prevent disaster.

Causes For Plumbing Problems

Plumbing issues can occur anywhere in your home. Frequently, lack of maintenance is the root cause of these problems. However, other causes can include:

• Manufacturing and design defects.
• Installation errors.
• Exposure to cleaning products (for example, by storing chemicals under the sink or by cleaning surfaces of plumbing components).

If caught early, many plumbing problems can be addressed before serious damage occurs. For this reason, regular inspection of your home’s visible plumbing parts can be critical. Knowing the lifespan of parts and appliances is also important, as is properly maintaining the other parts of your home and its features and systems.

Signs to Look For

Want to help prevent plumbing complications from damaging your home and potentially resulting in expensive property damage or loss? Start by visually inspecting your plumbing on a regular basis. Look for drips and slow leaks. Be sure to check the areas surrounding your pipes as well. If you see water damage on cabinetry or other nearby materials, there may be an active leak that you’ll want to locate.

Your entire home plumbing system may not be visible, but there are certain places in your home where you can readily inspect plumbing components:

• Under sinks and washtubs.
• Inside access panels near showers, sinks or appliances.
• Attachments to toilets, water heaters and appliances.
• Basements and crawl spaces.

You will want to look at any piping, valves and fittings in the areas listed above. Leaks are most common at connection points, so pay close attention to the plumbing connections on faucets, washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, water filtration systems, shut-off valves and toilets. Your home’s piping system may also have multiple connections between various sections of pipe. Appliances and fixtures themselves can cause problems, so be sure to inspect those as well, and keep up with any regular maintenance recommended by the manufacturer.

The signs of a problem will vary by component. For example, problems in copper piping may look very different from problems in PEX, a common type of plastic piping. In general, you want to look for signs of corrosion, cracking, hazing, discoloration and mineral deposits from a water leak.

For any questions or concerns about water damage in your home, call SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties at (618) 435-8200.  Your leader in commercial and residential water damage restoration. We make fire and water cleanup and restoration, "Like it never even happened."

Water Heater Floods a Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties Home

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

You’re away at work all day and then it happens….your water heater causes water damage to your home. We get calls from these types of damages every day and have a team available around the clock to make sure those problems go away. 

The hazards of having a leak or large amount of water discharged from your water heater can sometimes be easily noticed and other times it may be later until you find how much damage has been done. 

Things to look for:

 -Routinely inspect your water heater, especially older ones as they may be more prone to failing.

- Soft or squishy floors.

-If you notice any water coming up from the seams in your flooring.

-Water in your crawl space.

It doesn’t take a lot of water to create a lot of damage to floors, subfloors and into floor joists if the problem persists long enough. With water getting trapped under you floor it may not be noticeable at first.

SERVPRO utilizes specialty equipment that isn’t in stores. This equipment expedites the removal of water to help get your home back in the dry. Box fans and small dehumidifiers that are available in retail outlets can assist in drying, however they aren’t strong enough to handle water damage. Bottom line is if the water stays longer, the more damage it can cause. 

Water damage? Call us immediately for a free estimate, we also work with all insurance providers at 618-435-8200. 

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin & Perry Counties. Your leader in commercial and residential water damage restoration. We make fire and water cleanup and restoration, "Like it never even happened."

April Showers and May Flowers

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

April showers bring……May flowers…..and flooding. Yep, its that time of year where rains consistently hit our area as we begin to see winter go away and warmer temperatures mix in. 

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties is here to help with a few ways to prep your home or business for heavy rains and the potential for flooding. 

• Clear out all gutters and make sure all downspouts are clear and are pushing water away from your home or business. 
• Ensure water is flowing away from the structure of your home or business.
• Making sure you have an emergency plan in case of flooding

With over 50 years in the water restoration industry SERVPRO offers best in class service,  best in equipment with trained and certified staff. 

It is imperative following any type of water event in your home or business to call SERVPRO to help begin the drying process. Water can saturate the structure further aggravating the damage done to the property.  

When flooding hits and water damage occurs, call the professionals at SERVPRO at 618-435-8200 immediately.

Water Damage in Sesser, IL

7/4/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can strike at any time of the day, that's why the Professionals at SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties are on call 24-7 for your emergencies.

From homes, apartments to commercial structures, no water is too big or too small for SERVPRO to handle.  With state of the art water extraction equipment to industrial strength fans and dehumidification equipment we have the equipment to get you dry in no time.  

We are also able to take care of some water damages with the use of the newest technology without having to remove flooring or walls through a unique process. Our trained staff has been thoroughly educated on knowing the signs of water damage as well as the best and least invasive ways possible to remove the water. 

If you have any questions, or have had water damage, please contact your local office at 618-435-8200

Basement Flooded in Pinckneyville, IL

6/18/2021 (Permalink)

With summertime weather we typically see a lot of intense heavy rains. Heavy rains with failed sump pumps have been a major concern for home owners in the area. There are a few ways to help keep water out of your basement but it's always good to know the water damage experts SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties are here just in case.  

A few things to check before the next big rain include:

• Make sure drainage, gutters and downspouts are cleared of any debris.
• Adding extensions off of downspouts to ensure water is flowing away from your home
• Testing sump pumps at least once a month to make sure they are still working
• Make sure sump pump plumbing is also ejecting water far away from the house

Of course if your water takes on any water from flooding from the inside or out, SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties is here to help. Got water damage? Call 618-435-8200.

Water Damage in Pinckneyville, IL

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

How can SERVPRO restore a home rather than replace portions of it from flood damage? With the increase in cost of building materials it is becoming more critical to save as much as possible inside of the home. From hardwood flooring down to the subfloor, SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties has you covered.

Its specialized equipment that allows us to safely dry floors before they become warped or twisted. It's also equipment that allows us to vent walls without having to tear out all of the sheetrock in a room. Testing all areas of the floor and walls allows us to determine the saturation level and gives us the opportunity to save those items further saving money on your insurance claim.

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties does more than just homes or businesses from water damage. Call us today at 618-435-8200 or tell your Insurance agent or adjuster you prefer SERVPRO.

Small Leaks Can Cause Big Headaches

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

With all of the water sources going into your kitchen, do you ever think about what might happen if any of them leaks? The professionals at SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties are here if you find yourself with water damage. 

With water sources at your sink, dishwasher and refrigerator there are several ways for water to affect areas that you might not be able to see.  Water can potentially run behind base cabinets or under your refrigerator and can be virtually undetectable for some time. 

Did you know that SERVPRO can potentially save solid hardwood floors if water damage is caught quick enough? With a dry mat system that is able to extract water through the floors before water begins to warp and twist flooring.  This comes at a tremendous money savings on a claim as we can restore those floors rather than replace all of them. 

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin and Perry Counties does more than just repair homes or businesses from water damage. Call us today at 618-435-8200 or tell your Insurance agent or adjuster you prefer SERVPRO.

How To Handle a Flood Damaged Home

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

With weather crazier than ever and spring right around the corner its time to make a plan on how to handle flood damage. 

Winter weather is hanging around for a while longer and hopefully warmer weather is coming soon. With warmer weather means snow melt and potential for those spring showers that an easily flood areas.  When water begins coming into your home or business its time to call SERVPRO of Franklin, Jefferson and Perry Counties. 

The dangers of flood waters are endless including if it could be electrically charged, carrying harmful waste to even knowing how deep it can actually be. That's why the Professionals at SERVPRO can help make water damage "Like it never even happened," with years of industry experience.  With powerful Extraction Units and the best in drying equipment, we're here to get you back to normal. 

We work with every insurance provider and offer free estimates. Call us today at 618-435-8200

Don't Delay On Handling Water Damage

1/14/2021 (Permalink)

Water is one of the most destructive causes to home damage. In many cases, water damage can be going on over a long period of time before you even notice it.  Water damage can cause structural issues to your home as well as if left alone can cause severe mold and air quality issues as well. 

SERVPRO carries the best equipment to help remove standing water as well as water trapped inside walls. Calling SERVPRO immediately after noticing water damage can also help save hardwood floors from becoming too saturated with water for to long and warping. Having essential equipment that can dry hardwood floors is one of many ways SERVPRO can help save on an Insurance claim and help to get you moved back into your home quicker. 

If you have questions regarding water damage to your home or business, give the experts at SERVPRO a call to give a free estimate at 618-435-8200.

Familiarize Yourself with The Signs

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry Counties  is no stranger to water damage. With a staff that knows lots about both the cause of water damage the correct procedure for clean-up and restoration, we would like to share with you the five most common reasons for water damage in your household.

Top Five Water Damage

1. Bursting or leaking pipes such as those found in backed up toilets/drains. Damaged garbage disposal systems are another common location for bursting pipes.
2. Issues with the plumbing system can be difficult or even impossible to detect. However, a common issue is hoses and joint pipes not being fully attached. 
3. Water build-up in susceptible areas such as crawl spaces, attics, and basements. 
4. Faulty household appliances. Every day appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers are all susceptible to deterioration, so keep watch on older machines.
5. HVACs (Heating, ventilating and air conditioning units) issues- especially concerning your everyday AC.

When Inevitable Water Damage Strikes, Give SERVPRO a Call

No one is perfect and while possessing the knowledge to avoid water damage altogether makes the world of a difference, sometimes things just happen. Luckily, SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry Counties possesses the resources to help you and your family recover quickly. When water damage finds its way into your home, give SERVPRO a call, sit back, and relax, knowing your home will be restored quickly.

Frozen Pipes Bring Disaster

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Although we have experienced an abnormally warm start to fall, the Farmer’s Almanac is warning us to prepare for an extremely brutal winter.

Cold winters are something that we do not experience all to often here in Southern Illinois, but when we do it can bring with it a whole host of issues. One of the issues that is often over looked is frozen and busted pipes.

Three tips to decrease your chance of frozen and busted pipes:

1. Ensure you have proper insulation
2. Keep a steady drip of water during frigid nights
3. Maintain a warm climate within your home

These three steps you will help you to eliminate the risk of having a frozen or busted pipe. Frozen or busted pipes can cause significant damage, so precautionary steps are highly encouraged.

Don't Let it Sit, Call us Fast!

11/30/2019 (Permalink)

Did you know that timing is everything when it comes to fire, water, and storm damage. The quicker you can get the problem addressed, the less damage there is going to be. period.

Water leaks within a business can seep into flooring, carpets, baseboards and walls while moving throughout the structure, potentially creating mildew and staining walls. This might seem like a slow damage, but it can cause some of the most expensive damage.

Quick action is critical in avoiding costly repairs and expensive downtime. No business wants to have down time. The faster you call SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry Counties the faster we can get there, and the cheaper it will be for you. Which is best for everyone.

Our SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry Counties team understands that a damage event can not only disrupt your facility, but it can also interrupt day-to-day business functions- possible closing the business and ultimately affecting your revenues. Our goal is to get in there and take care of your facilities damage as quickly as we can. 

We are here to make it "Like it never even happened."

Prevent Your Pipes from Freezing!

11/29/2019 (Permalink)

FROZEN PIPE PREVENTION

Short- and Long-term solutions for low temperature plumbing problems include:

• Locate and seal cracks and openings in the walls, attic, basement or crawlspace.
• Weather strip and caulk around crawlspace doors and basement windows.
• Make sure your home is properly insulated. Pay special attention to areas where pipes are located.
• Insulate unprotected pipes and don't leave gaps. Pipe sleeves simplify the process. Keep the pieces tight against each other and seal the slits and joints with duct tape.
• Install storm windows over basement windows or replace the old windows with energy-efficient alternatives.
• Find your main water shutoff so you can turn off the water quickly if needed. Locations vary — look in the crawlspace or basement where the water supply enters the house, inside a water meter box directly outside the house or near the water heater.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air flow around the supply lines. Move any cleaners or other chemicals out of the reach of children.
• Keep your thermostat at the daytime setting during the night. If you'll be away for several days during subfreezing weather, keep it set above 55° F.

Call the Experts

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Have you checked under your kitchen or bathroom sink lately? Most people store a variety of cleaners, sponges, and miscellaneous clutter under the sink. It is out of the way, out of sight, but still handy. However, the team at SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry Counties knows that this can hide potential problems.Try to stay on top of it and do not let clutter build up under the sink. 

Leaks from pipes under the sink are often the source of water damage. The jumble of cleaning solutions, garbage containers, and hair, bath and shower products conceals drops of water and excess amounts of condensation, signs that your under-sink pipes are leaking. Call SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry Counties today at (618) 435-8200.

Be Prepared this Winter

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Why is a Frozen Pipe a Concern?

• When water begins to freeze, it expands. This can cause both plastic and metal pipes to burst, possibly leading to significant water damage to your home or business.
• Since water expands when it freezes, it puts unwanted pressure on pipes.
• As water freezes, the force exerted from the expansion can cause a pipe to burst, regardless of the strength of the material.
• You may not know you have a burst pipe as the water has turned to ice. Once the temperature starts to warm and thawing begins, leaking and flooding can occur.

FROZEN PIPE WATER DAMAGE TREATMENT AND RESTORATION

The key to avoiding costly secondary damage is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property with proper mitigation. Our SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry Counties team has the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. We begin removing the standing water from your property with extraction methods, and rapidly dry your structure and contents with dehumidifiers that lower the indoor humidity levels, so your building dries out quickly. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry Counties professionals will answer your call with rapid action and a full arsenal of drying equipment.

Rain can bring Flooding!

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

As many counties in the Southern Illinois area are under a flash flood watch, SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry counties wants you know know what this means and how this can be a problem for some of you. 

So what are the terms used for flooding and what exactly do they mean?

• "Flash Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.
• Flood Warning: Take Action! A Flood Warning is issued when the hazardous weather event is imminent or already happening. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
• Flood Watch: Be Prepared:A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event to occur. A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
• Flood Advisory: Be Aware:An Flood Advisory is issued when a specific weather event that is forecast to occur may become a nuisance. A Flood Advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property."

(definitions were pulled from the National Weather Service and attached is the link : https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-watch-warning if you would like any further details.)

These terms all have different meanings and you are responsible to take action as needed to keep you and your family safe when heavy rain comes your way. 

As always, be aware of the weather coming your way and be prepared for any situation. And remember SERVPRO of Jefferson, Franklin, & Perry counties is always here to restore any damage that may strike your home or business. So protect yourself and we can take care of any other resulting damage.