Archived Water Damage Blog Posts
The Water Damage Repair Your Willimantic Property Needs
3/26/2024 (Permalink)
Fast-drying can minimize water damage in your Willimantic home. SERVPRO has the technicians and equipment to make it "Like it never even happened."
Skills and Technologies That Facilitate Water Restoration
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Willimantic, CT, was a textile industry hub. Jillson House Museum and the old mill buildings along the Willimantic River are a historic reminder of the good old days. The setting around the census-designated place oozes natural beauty, with the Willimantic River offering fishing, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities. People also enjoy different local cuisines in upscale restaurants and cozy cafes. The Willimantic Brewing Company offers craft beers and delicious pub fare. For enhanced social interaction, local events like Third Thursday Street Festivals have everything from food trucks to music.
Water damage repair in Willimantic properties can differ based on the source, amount, and duration of water exposure. When preparing to respond to such an incident, you must ensure your efforts are sufficient. SERVPRO® has several IICRC-certified technicians, making us a reliable team to respond to the incidents at your property.
Helpful Professionals to Tackle Water Damage
- Applied Microbial Remediation Technicians
- Applied Structural Drying Technicians
- Carpet Cleaning Technicians
- Water Damage Restoration Technicians
A wider expertise pool means better task execution, even for mundane issues such as drying wet materials. For example, you may notice our SERVPRO water restoration technicians tenting cushions and placing wax paper between them when drying upholstery, which enhances drying and minimizes staining. The skills also help with significant tasks such as replacing carpets, insulation, and drywall. You may notice our crews systemically drilling holes at the base of walls or from the edges of your ceiling towards the center. Such a step releases the water trapped in the cavities while preventing a collapse or creating room for ventilating the wet interiors.
Cleaning is an essential part of the repair process. Various forms of cleaning may include floor agitation with rotating brushes, hot water extraction for carpets and upholstery, or spot-cleaning for stained areas. Our SERVPRO crews are well-equipped to handle all the cleaning tasks your property requires.
SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County is well prepared to handle water damage repair. Call (860) 887-0447.
Professional Water Damage Restoration Service for Norwich Properties
4/6/2023 (Permalink)
You can rely upon the professionals at SERVPRO for fast and effective water damage restoration in Norwich.
SERVPRO Features Highly Skilled Water Damage Technicians in Norwich
Once a household appliance malfunctions or you have burst pipes at your place of business, you could be in for water damage. Even the most minor incident could lead to adverse effects like costly secondary damage, the loss of contents, and musty odors from the onset of black mold and mildew. DIY is never recommended, as water mitigation is time-consuming and calls for specialized methods in many instances. SERVPRO wants all Norwich property owners to know that our locally-owned franchise has all restoration methods, industrial-grade equipment, and IICRC-certified technicians to handle whatever project you have. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster, getting there within four hours or less once you make initial contact with our friendly customer care team.
One of the most critical aspects of water damage in Norwich is water mitigation. The mitigation process helps limit the amount of moisture that comes into contact with materials. Our skilled technicians also use rapid water removal services to keep standing water from migrating into unaffected areas of your home or business. SERVPRO focuses on proven strategies that include removing water, manipulating airflow, and repositioning materials to help us reach our goals.
During water-related projects, some actions we may take include:
- Removal of all wet fabrics and upholstery
- Disposal of all saturated and unsalvageable materials
- Blotting and mopping, as needed
- Tenting certain accessories, such as cushions
- Implementation of cleaning using EPA-registered antimicrobials and cleaning solutions
We Take Special Care with All Furnishings and Fabrics
While many fabrics will be resilient to water damage if they dry fast, there could be long-term problems if special care is not taken during restoration. For example, light permanent staining could be an issue due to rust or running dyes. We have technicians on our team that know how to separate fabrics and remove furniture that rests on carpeted flooring. All measures get taken to keep dyes from bleeding onto other materials to thwart stains and further damage. If you have wet carpeting, carpet pads, or area rugs, our team may also remove and relocate for further drying before reinstalling.
How Does SERVPRO Handle Water Removal Services?
Standing water removal is imperative to keep it from becoming stagnant within your Norwich property. This helps lessen deterioration due to exposure to your contents and building materials. Rapid reductions also minimize moisture migration that could create an issue with hidden damage. During water removal, we often:
- Utilize free-standing pumps, truck-mounted extractors, carpet wands, and weighted rovers to pull up varying water and moisture levels.
- Wipe down all interior surfaces that came into contact with water
- Blowing dry air over any wet areas with the help of centrifugal air movers and other industrial-grade equipment
Dehumidification is Vital for All Water-Related Incidents
SERVPRO utilizes drying equipment and dehumidification in tandem to get the best results. We must restore relative humidity within your property to keep moisture at bay and limit the possibility of mold and mildew growth. We do so with powerful desiccant or refrigerant dehumidifiers to ensure relative humidity (RH) returns to normal levels.
Controlled Demolition for a Finishing Touch
If you had immense water damage that wreaked havoc on your building materials, SERVPRO has the manpower to ensure everything is removed and replaced with all-new materials. – General Contractor License #: HIC 0620481
Some of the controlled demolition steps we may take include:
- Carpet and carpet padding removal
- Drywall replacement
- Flood cuts
- Subfloor repair
- Painting and refinishing
You can look to our crew at SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County when you want trusted results to handle your water damage. Request help online or call us 24/7 for emergency service at (860) 887-0447.
The Importance of Water Mitigation for Norwich Properties
4/5/2023 (Permalink)
Don't let water damage go unchecked in your home. Call SERVPRO for help to avoid further damage.
SERVPRO Helps Manage Water Damage in Your Norwich Home
Water is all around us, so accidental or negligent spills can happen. A straightforward case of water intrusion can become a nightmare involving mold contamination and significant structural damage like rotting or warping frames. Appropriate and timely water mitigation can help minimize the impact on your Norwich property.
The critical determinant of the effectiveness of water mitigation at your Norwich property is how fast you start it. Most damages triggered by moisture exposure take time to develop significantly. For example, mold takes 24 to 48 hours to appear and several days or weeks to cause material decay. Since SERVPRO sends assistance within the first four hours after notification, our intervention has a positive impact.
Typical mitigation processes:
- Stopping any flowing water
- Extracting pooling water
- Moving vulnerable materials
- Addressing any hazards
Water may flow into your structure from damaged plumbing, structural areas such as the roof, or a malfunctioning appliance such as a washer. Whatever the problem, finding a way to stop such intrusion instantaneously limits the resulting damages. Our SERVPRO crews can install roof tarps, find and clamp leaking pipes or take other steps for instant reprieve. Once the flow stops, it is easier to focus on the other mitigation processes.
Accelerating Water Extraction
Water removal may seem like a standard procedure whereby you scoop or mop out water from the property. However, extraction speed is critical in determining the outcome when you want to mitigate damages. SERVPRO crews better manage extraction speed by choosing vacuum extractors. A tool like a truck-mounted extractor can remove thousands of gallons within a few hours. Its higher vacuum lift capacity makes it ideal for removing water absorbed by porous materials such as carpets.
Faster water removal and stopping further inflows are also helpful in minimizing that develop from moisture accumulation. For example, removing stagnant water eliminates slick surfaces, while releasing water trapped in ceilings eliminates the chances of collapse.
Other ways to address water hazards:
- Setting up safety signs such as wet floor markers
- Establishing a staging area for holding all equipment when not in use
- Unplugging electrical equipment and switching off power sources
SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County ensures water mitigation is effective, saving you unnecessary costs and inconveniences. You can reach us at (860) 887-0447.
Preventing Permanent Damage with Water Mitigation in Norwich
10/4/2022 (Permalink)
The first step to resolving water damage is calling your local trained professionals at SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County.
SERVPRO Water Restoration Technicians can Help
Water spills into your property can quickly degrade, causing malodors and creating the conditions for bacteria and other microorganisms to thrive. The growth of microorganisms in the home can lead to dilapidation and permanent property damage. It is vital to contact a professional restoration service if you experience a water intrusion event. We can help assess the damages you can see and other damages that may not be immediately apparent. Our services are geared toward:
- Burst pipes
- Appliance leak
- Water intrusion
By conducting expert water mitigation in your Norwich home, our technicians can help to reduce potential losses. Inspections of not just the interior of your property but also cavities and layers of the building assembly are essential to ensuring that water migration does not cause long-lasting damage to the home. To make these inspections, our technicians use a variety of measuring equipment. These include penetrating meters that pierce the surface of a material and return an accurate reading of its moisture content which can help us to assess potential water migration. Non-penetrating meters can also help check walls or flooring to consider if water may be underneath. These moisture sensors measure the surface temperature and calculate the likelihood of water residing beneath.
- Thorough inspections of cavities in the home structure are essential to mitigate potential water damage.
- Draining cavities such as crawlspaces and subfloor are possible using extraction wands, providing that parts of the building assembly are removed temporarily.
- A method of drying wall spaces is circulating warm air into the cavity using air movers or injectidry systems.
If you are experiencing a water intrusion event, contact SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County for water mitigation at (860) 887-0447.
Save Your Norwich Home with Fast Water Mitigation
7/26/2022 (Permalink)
Water damage restoration services by SERVPRO are second to none. Call now for the help you need.
The Early Water Mitigation Focuses
While the needed actions of water mitigation and emergency services might vary slightly by the residence impacted, the heart of these efforts remains the same. It is vital to do whatever is necessary to protect your property from irreparable damage, which SERVPRO can achieve by prioritizing set objectives like:
- Water removal
- Cleanup
- Mold prevention
- Drying
Extraction Machines to Save Flooring
Starting water mitigation for Norwich homes and businesses involves removing surface water and trapped moisture from building materials. Standing and pooling water should be the greatest focus of arriving technicians as porous building materials can absorb water damage immediately and allow this moisture to migrate into structural cavities and other areas of the property. We have several options to help in this capacity, including pumps and vacuums.
Relocating At-Risk Contents
The impact of water damage on the contents and personal belongings of your residence should also be a focal point for mitigators. In many cases, continued exposure damage is preventable and manageable by removing contents from the affected area to a dry, safe location on-site. If the entire residence is impacted, we have off-site cleaning and storage until move-back can occur.
Emergency Repairs Save Wall Systems
We can quickly identify where repairs are necessary after water damage with a general contractor license and years of experience in build-back services. We can often preserve and protect wall systems and ceiling assemblies through plumbing repairs and fixture replacements. These essential reinstallations can restore vital water service to your home. We can also seal any structural openings or vulnerabilities formed by the water damage if necessary.
Mitigation is more than just one or two components of repairs and emergency services. We have several ways we can help your home early in the recovery stages. Give our SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County team a call today at (860) 887-0447.
Water Restoration for Wood Flooring in Norwich Homes
6/16/2022 (Permalink)
Water restoration services for Norwich by SERVPRO are top-notch. We will have your home back to preloss condition ASAP.
Specific Actions Help Flooring Water Restoration
Wood flooring is an everyday staple for modern and older homes in the region. When water damage impacts these elements, this flooring type can absorb moisture while simultaneously being affected by pooling on the surface. Responding technicians must address multiple conditions to preserve wet wood flooring.
Clearing Surface Water
The first obstacle for water restoration in Norwich homes when the wood flooring is affected is addressing the standing water concerns. Pooling is detrimental to the flooring and any exposed materials nearby. Our SERVPRO Green Fleet arrives with multiple extraction devices to resolve up to several feet of standing water after extreme disasters. With interior home flooring, standard extraction and water removal tools can include:
- Pumps
- Wet vacuums
- Squeegee wands
- Toweling/mopping
Assessing Absorption and Saturation
With the water mostly resolved on the surface, our technicians need to assess the severity of the situation. Many homeowners might not realize the volume of sophisticated tools available to our SERVPRO team for moisture detection and migration tracking. For flooring, we would often consider using surface moisture meters and penetrating models to see if more significant exposure threats have impacted beyond a plank's outermost layer. Thermal imagery can also show cooler spots that might indicate the presence of water before greater drying measures get underway.
Drying Mats
The drying mat is among the more efficient restoration tools for removing water trapped in wood plank flooring. When placed perpendicularly across several plank seams, these drying tools can influence a wide area of the material. Through capillary suction, water is drawn to the surface for extraction and drying by our team.
Drying and restoring wood flooring should begin as soon as possible if the material is to be preserved. Our SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County team has a rapid response to start mitigation actions. Call us now at (860) 887-0447.
Damage Migration During Water Restoration in Windham Homes
5/3/2022 (Permalink)
Water leaks migrate in Norwich homes from Wet to Dry, SERVPRO restores properties, "Like it never even happened."
Drying Water Damage in Windham Homes Means Tracking Moisture Migration
Water damage restoration and recovery services encompass dozens of intricate tasks layered over one another to return a property to preloss condition. Ultimately, the objective of this process is to achieve comfortable living conditions and make the disaster ‘Like it never even happened.’
For water restoration in Windham properties, our technicians must utilize our knowledge of moisture behavior to increase drying time and productivity. Some principles of this primary water recovery effort include:
- Wet goes to dry
- Hot goes to cold
- High pressure to low pressure
Wet to Dry
One of the easily witnessed drying principles is that wet conditions migrate to dry areas seeking a balance. Knowing that moisture travels a linear path to connected dry spaces can show technicians where drying tools should be placed to minimize the impact on the wall systems and flooring.
Hot to Cold
Manipulating the temperature can positively impact the restoration process, but fluctuations encourage moisture migration. Warm, humid air seeks colder, dry conditions. For this reason, it is beneficial to increase the total work area to include a perimeter that can be kept at similar temperatures to discourage moisture movement.
High to Low Pressures
Vapor pressure is one of the subjects of the psychrometry our SERVPRO team studies to understand moisture behavior and drying principles in action during restoration. Different environments in the house function at varying pressures, especially when rooms are undergoing drying processes. As the house attempts to regulate these changes by seeking a balance, higher pressures seek lower pressures.
Understanding these drying principles allows our SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County team to best utilize drying tools and products in real-time. When water damage events occur in your home, you can trust the fast response of our team to help when you call (860) 887-0447.
Can Remodeling Reveal Water Damage in Norwich Properties?
1/14/2022 (Permalink)
When your luxurious Norwich home spa springs a leak causing water spillage and damage--Contact SERVPRO to make it "Like it never even happened."
SERVPRO Technicians Perform Water Cleanup in Norwich Homes
There are several ways that a Norwich property can need a water remediation service during a renovation. When a homeowner elects to update their home, it is not uncommon for different professionals such as plumbers, painters, and electricians to work on the property simultaneously. Unfortunately, this is also the setup for an accident that can cause water damage.
Plumbing accidents are one of the most common issues leading to water damage in Norwich properties. Kitchen and bathroom remodeling jobs are the most frequently seen areas for this type of problem, with some of the following being the culprit:
- Leaks
- Poor drainage allows seepage into the home
- Accidents with supply lines
- Opening walls exposing slowly dripping pipes
Upgrades Can Cause Damage from Water
Diverter spouts installed in handheld showerheads can cause a blowback issue that delivers water behind the shower wall with every use. If the problem continues, severe damage such as buckling of the wall, tile loss, and mold growth can occur.
Many homeowners look forward to installing a hot tub or jacuzzi in their home as a place to unwind and relax. However, these devices can also be a place where water damage happens. The unit should be inspected regularly for leaks in the supply lines and around the base. SERVPRO techs can use infrared cameras to determine if there is a buildup of moisture underneath by using thermal vision and use their expertise to negate any budding damage issues.
Professional water cleanup services can assist during a renovation as needed. SERVPRO technicians can work alongside the other industry professionals to handle the water remediation while the work on the home continues. The goal is to keep the remodeling project on schedule and eliminate on-site water issues.
SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County is ready to come to Willimantic and Norwich properties for water restoration services when local homeowners need help with any size water damage problem. (860) 887-0447
What Water Damage is Expected for Norwich Homes This Winter?
12/28/2021 (Permalink)
Call SERVPRO for advice on protecting your Norwich home from frozen pipes or ice damming--Better than having us mitigate water damage
Frozen Pipes and Ice Dams Damage Norwich Houses
The winter season can be hard on exterior elements of your residence and utilities within the structure, like the plumbing. Exposures to cold temperatures and harsh conditions can lead to costly and destructive water damage events. Our SERVPRO team is Here to Help.
How Can Ice Formations Be a Threat?
Between frozen pipes and ice damming Norwich homes might experience, ice formation can be hazardous. On a roof, ice can force snowmelt water back into the attic to flood this upper portion of your house. This causes damage to many elements like:
- Shingles
- OSB/Plywood
- Joists
- Attic structural components
- Insulation
How Easily Can Water Lines Freeze?
During the winter months, freezing pipes are a common threat for area homes as many service lines exist on exterior walls that are underinsulated. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can freeze water, causing it to expand and potentially bursting the portion of plumbing affected. This would result in damages to:
- Ceiling systems
- Wall assembly materials
- Wood and carpet flooring
- Cabinets
Is There Anything That Prevents These Damages?
Homeowners can take potential preventative measures to protect their property and its contents. Insulation is one of the focal points for damming and frozen pipes, as sufficient coverage prevents irregular melting on the roof and keeps cold air from directly impacting standing water in service lines.
When Should SERVPRO Be Called to Help?
The professionals of our SERVPRO team understand how rapidly all water damage situations can get out of control, especially with natural flooding or burst pipes. We utilize powerful vacuums and pumps for water extraction and lean on efficient tools for continued restoration.
For some homes, the winter months can be severe and destructive, such as frozen pipes bursting and causing a need for fast water damage restoration. Our experienced SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County team has a rapid response to potential emergencies, extracting standing water and drying trapped moisture "Like it never even happened." Call today at (860) 887-0447.
What Are the Basics Principles of Water Damage Restoration in Norwich Properties?
11/15/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO has the manpower and equipment for any size disaster. Water damage restoration is a specialty of ours.
SERVPRO Focuses on Regulating Moisture Action for Better Restoration of Water Damage
Restoration is essential after property disasters involving water intrusion. Although you may know that restoration goes beyond mopping up the water left on surfaces, you might not understand all the processes necessary to restore your Norwich home to its preloss state.
One unique advantage of letting professionals handle water damage restoration at your Norwich home is the deeper understanding of moisture action. Water interacts with different materials uniquely. It also takes other processes to remove water from the materials, thus reversing its damaging effects. SERVPRO sends a team of well-equipped technicians to help facilitate the different techniques necessary to counter water damage.
The critical moisture actions that influence water damage include:
- Condensation
- Dew point
- Evaporation
- Vapor pressure
Controlling the different moisture actions helps prevent or reverse damages. Evaporation is one of the crucial moisture actions since it helps remove the water absorbed by various materials, releasing it into the air. A sustained evaporation rate is necessary for quicker drying of materials. Vapor pressure is closely related to evaporation since more vapor in the air means more pressure levels. Our SERVPRO teams use air movers to sustain evaporation are reduce vapor pressure by pushing away saturated air from wet areas, thus promoting faster drying.
Moisture removed from one section of the house can find a way into another section, thus hampering the overall restoration process. Condensation is the moisture action responsible for such transfer. Condensation happens when humidity in the air cools to the dew point. The condensate can soak materials just like regular water. Therefore, preventing condensation is essential. Our SERVPRO technicians balance the restoration process, ensuring the evaporation rate and dehumidification are balanced.
SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County uses several approaches to ensure water damage restoration delivers satisfactory results. Call us at (860) 887-0447. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Even Small-Scale Water Damage in Willimantic Calls for Skilled Mitigation Services
10/22/2021 (Permalink)
You can rely upon the professionals of SERVPRO completely for fast and effective water cleanup.
SERVPRO Lessens Damage with Prompt Water Mitigation Measures So Your Willimantic Home Gets Back to Normal Faster
Any water damage to your home can bring more of a headache than anything. In addition to costs of the loss, you also have your Willimantic household disrupted until restoration gets completed. SERVPRO offers rapid water mitigation services to get you the fast, efficient results you deserve. Taking care of the event as soon as possible lessens the chance of more significant issues, more cost, and more time that your home is turned upside down. The good news is that our water restoration technicians (WRT) do whatever possible to get the job wrapped up while keeping disruption to a minimum.
Bringing in a professional team for water mitigation in Willimantic saves homeowners time and money. Once water enters the home via burst pipes, ceiling leaks, or another cause, you need to get it cleaned up as soon as you can, even if only a small area has been impacted. Failing to address water infiltration on any scale could lead to:
- Degradation of building materials, including structural elements
- Foul, musty odors
- Loss of personal belongings/contents
- Development of potentially harmful mildew and mold
Why Have SERVPRO Assist with Water Mitigation?
Our technicians scope the damaged areas carefully to locate areas where moisture is present and select the best tools for the job. Our Green Fleet comes equipped with:
- Moisture meters
- Infrared camera technology
- Dehumidification equipment
- Industrial fans
- Extraction tools, and more!
Whether you had a small spill and you are worried about moisture hidden behind baseboards, or you had a significant incident that calls for pumps and extractors, we are the team to call for water mitigation. Reach out to SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County by calling (860) 887-0447 whenever you need assistance!
Getting into Water Damage Restoration Quickly in Norwich Helps Lessen Costs
9/15/2021 (Permalink)
When it takes more than a squeegee and fan to dry your water damaged Norwich home--Call SERVPRO--"Like it never even happened."
24/7 Response from SERVPRO Ensures Your Norwich Property Gets Back on Track After Water Damage Strikes
When you have a water emergency like a significant spill or burst pipes in your basement, your initial thought might be to dive in with your wet/dry vacuum. However, moisture migrates to dry spaces rapidly, so the chances are high you will not pull up everything on your own. Rather than going DIY with your water clean-up, SERVPRO is available with skilled water restoration technicians (WRT), and we are here 24/7 for an emergency response!
All homeowners need to remember about handling water damage in Norwich that even the slightest bit of moisture left behind can be a nuisance. Not only is there the potential for foul musty odors and secondary damage (rot), but you also run the risk of black mold development. Due to the possible health effects that mold infestation brings, you need skilled technicians on the job and working to remove all excessive moisture.
SERVPRO handles water removal services and drying with a variety of techniques and equipment, including:
- Standing water extraction with the help of truck-mounted extractors and submersible pumps
- Detailed water damage mitigation that helps to reduce saturation and the onset of costly damage
- Containment barriers get constructed to limit moisture movement and contaminant tracking
- Drying with the help of centrifugal air movers, industrial-grade fans, and dehumidification equipment
- Sanitizing and deodorizing with EPA-registered antimicrobials and cleaning agents to leave your home Certified: SERVPRO Cleaned
There is no job site too big or small for our IICRC-certified crew at SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County. We work quickly to assess water damage and ensure nothing gets left behind so that you can enjoy your home once again while putting all memories of the water emergency behind you. Call us at (860) 887-0447, and we can send out our professional crew as soon as possible.
Why Does The Choice of Water Restoration Companies In Willimantic Properties Matter?
8/12/2021 (Permalink)
A leaking appliance can cause larger issues than you would think. Call SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County today.
SERVPRO Scopes the Loss before Embarking on Water Damage Repairs
Water leaks can spring up when you least expect them causing many inconveniences. For instance, fridge ice makers can use up to 25 gallons of water a day, so a broken line can cause significant water damage. Calling water restoration companies is one way to ease the renovation of the property. However, the choice of company matters.
The services water restoration companies in Willimantic offer should go beyond extraction of pooling water or removal of the materials affected by the moisture. Apart from pooling on the ground, water also interacts with the materials, including evaporating or wicking through materials. SERVPRO Water Restoration Technicians are trained in psychrometry, thus gaining a deeper understanding of moisture behavior.
Profound knowledge about moisture helps in various restoration-related situations, including:
- Water damage remediation
- Flood restoration
- Water clean up
SERVPRO probes the level of moisture migration throughout the property. We have simple and sophisticated probing equipment such as moisture meters and thermal cameras. We also check the types of materials in different property sections to establish where extraction should be done urgently.
Problems might also arise because of the moisture that escapes into the air through evaporation. Some common problems include prolonged drying process because of high humidity in the air or wetness transfer because of condensation. A better understanding of psychrometrics allows SERVPRO technicians to manipulate temperature, vapor pressure, and humidity to guarantee better outcomes during restoration.
SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County is a suitable partner when seeking water restoration companies to help fix your home. Call us at (860) 887-0447. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster.
Common Hot Water Heater Problems
1/29/2021 (Permalink)
Water heater burst? Call SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County at 860-887-0447
Over the past few months, SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County has been called for a record amount of flooded basements due to issues with hot water heaters. The Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety puts faulty hot water heaters in the top five causes for water damages in the home, and report that 75% of hot water heaters fail before they are twelve years old. There are three main reasons for your hot water heater to burst:
1) Sediment Build UP
Over time, sediment settles at the bottom of your hot water heater. This mineral layer insulates the water from the burner, forcing it to run longer to heat the water, causing it to overheat and deteriorate the tank
2) Rust Corroding the Tank
Inside your tank is a internal rust protection element, the anode rod. This rod should be inspected for deterioration. It is recommended to inspect the rod every two years and expect to change it once every 4-5 years.
3) Too Much Internal Pressure
Pressure builds in your tank when you set the temperature too high (over 140 degrees). Its best to keep water temperature set to 120-125 degrees. While your heater has a temperature and pressure relief valve, your extra pressure will still wear out your tank faster.
Is your basement flooded due to a water heater issue? Call SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County at 860-887-0447. Our experienced crews are available 24/7 to help!
Common Plumbing Problems During Rain
1/28/2021 (Permalink)
Photo by Reza Shayestehpour via Upsplash
Homeowners need to be prepared for potential plumbing issues during heavy rainfall. Below are the four most common issues during heavy rains
Flooding Due to Lack of Drainage
Heavy rain will cause water to accumulate in low points of a yard. If your property does not correctly channel rainwater, your driveway, basement steps or walkways may flood. This flooding can comprise the stability of your driveway, deck or foundation of your home.
Clogged and Blocked Drains
Debris brought in by heavy rain, like leaves, soil, sticks and trash might get into your sewer system and cause your drains to clog, backing up your entire system. When you notice water pooling in your sink, shower or bathtub this may be a blockage in your plumbing system.
Sewage Backing Up Due to Clogged Drains
When heavy rains fall, there can be an impact on your sewer line. The sewer line carries wastewater from your home to the sewer line, but if it is backed up that dirty water could accumulate over your clogged drains or the build up might even cause pipes to crack or burst
Pipes Bursting and Cracking from Blockages
If you notice that your sink water is colored or carries a mildewy odor you might have a cracked or broken pipe. When rainwater pools and has nowhere to go, it puts pressure on your pipes and cause they to break, especially if the pipes old or damaged.
Water or Sewage back up in your home? Don’t panic! Call SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County at 860-887-0447. Our trained technicians are available 24/7 to make it “Like it never even happened.”
My Tank Runneth Over
12/2/2020 (Permalink)
Call us today at 860-887-0447
We all know the dreaded feeling... the water is going to high and not flushing properly. Panic sets that a large mess is going to be on your bathroom floor. What do you do?
- Shut off the Water Supply
- This will prevent more water coming in
- Remove the Tank Lid
- Carefully set it aside to avoid breakage
- Adjust the Flapper
- The rubber flapper is at the bottom of the tank. Press down on the flapper valve to secure it. This will prevent more water from entering the bowl
- Lift the Float
- Raise the tank fill valve float ball. The water in the bowl should start going down
- Shut off the Toilet Supply Valve
- If the water level is still high, hold up the float as you shut off the water supply at the toilet valve.
- Use a Plunger
- Use a plunger to break up clogs in the drain
If you do have a water damage in your home, SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County is here to help. Call us at 860-887-0447 and our skilled technician will make it "Like it never even happened."
Water Damage Doesn't Take Vacations
11/30/2020 (Permalink)
Photo by Ethan Robertson via Upsplash
This past year, SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County had more calls regarding water damages occurring while people were away from their homes for extended periods of times, then the past three years combined. Once the pandemic has passed, let's face it, we are all going to need vacations. We'd like to suggest the following for keeping things dry while away.
- Have a friend, family member or house sitter frequently check your home
- Shut off the main water supply valve next to your water meter. After shutting off the valve, then drain all pipes of water
- Pour Marine grade anti-freeze into the toilet if leaving during the winter
- In colder months keep the thermostat set to a minimum of 55 degrees
- Clean gutters before leaving to make sure water is flowing freely off the roof
- Leave cabinets under sinks open which will allow air to circulate around the pipes
If you do come home to a water damage SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County is on call for you 24/7. Just call us at 860-887-0447
Is it Covered?
10/30/2020 (Permalink)
Water is one of the most common causes of damage in homes, and represents a large number of insurance claims. It is however not always easy to navigate what is, and what isn't covered.
Depending on the type of coverage you have, typically if water damage is accidental, it is covered by your homeowner's insurance. Examples of accidental water damage may include
- Discharge and overflow of water
- Freezing of plumbing and pipes (some exclusions do apply)
- Tearing apart, cracking, burning or bulging of a steam or hot water heating system
- Damages covered by the weight of ice, snow or sleet
The key to these types of coverage is it must be sudden and accidental, not a maintenance or wear-and-tear issue.
Always check with your insurance agent to verify your coverage and to evaluate if additional coverage would be needed.
If you do have a water related issue in your home, SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County is here to help 24/7. Just call us at 860-887-0447 and we can have our trained technicians on sight to help.
Leaky Faucets 101
10/29/2020 (Permalink)
Photo by Kazuky Akayashi via Upsplash
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a leaky facet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year. That’s enough water for 180 showers! Fixing a leaky faucet can save an average of 10% of your water bill. All those drips are adding up!
A leaky faucet isn’t just a small inconvenience. The results can be catastrophic. The typical causes for a leaky faucet include corrosion, mineral deposits on the internal parts, or defective parts. When left to fester, these little problems can become large problems.
What are the most common causes of a leaky faucet? Many are easy fixes that an experienced homeowner can handle themselves or with the help of an experienced plumber.
Problem with the O-Ring
When the O-ring becomes loose or worn out over regular use, the faucet may begin to drip near the handle. Replacing the O-ring will fix the issue.
Corroded Valve Seat
A valve seat serves as a connection between the faucet and the spout in the compression mechanism. If water sediment accumulates it will cause corrosion, causing leaking around the spout area.
Worn Out Washers
This is the most common cause of a dripping faucet. During each use, the washer is forced against the valve seat, and this constant friction causes it to wear out. The washer wearing out will cause dripping around the spout.
If a leaky faucet has caused damaged to your home, call us at 860-887-0447. We are available 24/7 for all your storm, fire, wind and water restoration needs.
Preventing Freezing Pipes
1/29/2020 (Permalink)
Photo by Timo Muller via Upsplash
Having your pipes freeze and burst can cause big problems in your home. Typically your pipes are in danger of freezing when temperatures outside are below 20 degrees for six hours or more. Water coming into your home is much colder and causes your pipes to contract, and in weaker parts, can cause the pipe to burst. Here are some expert tips for ways to try to prevent it.
Keep Water Faucets Running
If it is extremely cold outside, always keep one or two faucets running slowly. Water moving through the pipes should help prevent freezing
Leave Cabinet Doors Open
If your kitchen sink is on an outside wall, be sure to leave cabinet doors open to allow warmer air into the cabinet.
Disconnect Your Hose
Be sure to disconnect your hose from the outside faucet. If you leave your hose connected, water is not able to drain out of your hose bib and will freeze and break the device
Seal Leaks
Seal leaks that allow cold air into your home where pipes are located. Look for air leaks around electrical wiring, dryer vents, and pipes and seal them up. With severe weather, even a tiny opening can let in enough cold air to make pipes freeze.
Check Your Home's Temperature
Prevent temperature from dropping below 32 degrees in any area of your home where water lines are located.
How To Turn Off The Water In Your Home
1/23/2020 (Permalink)
Photo by Samara Doole via Upsplash
Don't wait until water is gushing into your home to figure out how to shut off the water supply in your home. Take a few moments to have a "dry" run turning it off so you are prepared for an emergency.
Main Shut Off Valve
In most cases, the main shut off valve will be near the perimeter of the house. If you are in the basement, look at eye level or above. If you are on the ground floor, look down. If you still can't find it, go outside to the water meter utility box. Imagine a straight line extending to the nearest point on your homes exterior. Where that line meets your house is likely where the shut off valve is located.
Streetside Shut Off Valve
Typically there is a valve located at the beginning of your water main, at the boundary line of your property. Before turning it off call the water company's emergency line. They will either tell you to shut it off or will dispatch an emergency crew.
Shut Off Close To The Source
If you have a leak in your toilet, sink or washing machine, it is best to turn the water off close to the source first.
- Toilets: Look under the toilet, against the wall for the flexible metal tubing. Turn the handle clockwise until it stops
- Sinks: Look under the sink cabinet. You will see two sets of flexible metal tubes. Turn the handles on both valves clockwise to shut off.
- Washing Machine: Some houses have the valves clearly exposed behind the washer. Turn both clockwise to shut off the water. If you don't see the valves, pull out the washer from the wall and they should be found easily.
Getting the water shut off quickly is always the first step for a water emergency in your home. Your second step should be calling SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County at (860)887-0447. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
What To Do If A Pipe Bursts
11/27/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County is available 24/7 for any water emergency in your home. Call us at (860) 887-0447 and help will be on the way!
If you have a pipe burst in your home, acting quickly will help minimize the damage. Here are the steps you should take
- Shut off the water main
- Shut off electricity (if it is safe to do so)
- Contact a plumber
- Call SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County at (860) 887-0447 ASAP
- Talk to your insurance agent
There are a few things you can do to minimize damage before our crew arrives
- If you see water spreading across a ceiling, you might use a screwdriver to poke a hole and allow the water to drip down into a bucket. This can reduce the water damage area and may also keep water out of light fixtures
- Place buckets to catch dripping water
- Move your furniture away from the water if possible
- Use towels or a mop to sop up excess water on the floor
SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County is available 24/7 to help with any water emergency in your home. Call us at (860) 887-0447 and help is on the way!
What Are Flood Cuts and How Do They Help?
11/26/2019 (Permalink)
This photo shows the flood cuts that were done at a house in Moosup CT where there had been sewage flooding.
Flood cutting is the procedure of cutting out drywall approximately one foot above the highest level of flood damage to assess the presence of moisture behind a wall. Insulation exposed to any type of water cannot be safely dried, poses an increased mold risk, and will need to be removed and replaced. The flood cuts exposes any potential problems so mitigation technicians can resolve them. Depending on the extent of the damage, technicians will clean or replace it once the moisture issues behind the wall are solved.
It is important to act quickly when flooding occurs. After the water recedes or is pumped out, you may not be aware of the damage behind affected walls until you notice structural issues or staining. By this time irreversible damage could have taken place, and mold can be setting in.
If you have flooding in your home from groundwater, burst pipes or any emergency call SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County at (860) 887-0447 and we will be onsite to make it "Like it never even happened"
Types of Water Damage
10/16/2019 (Permalink)
Photo by Mike Yukhtenko via Upsplash
How bad is the water event in your home? There are three types of water damage that may affect your home or business:
- Clean Water Damage (Category 1) is caused by “clean water” originating from a water pipe or rain. It is from a source that is not contaminated. This is typically the easiest and least expensive type of water disaster to deal with depending on the extent of damage. The largest risk clean water damage poses is if the area that is damaged is not properly dried that mold can grow. Clean water elevates to category 2 if left after 24-48 hours.
- Gray Water Damage (Category 2)is usually caused by water coming from a water-appliance such as a washing machine. Gray water will have chemicals such as soap that will have to be treated during the cleanup process. Toilet overflows containing only urine are considered gray water. Gray water elevates to category 3 if left after 24-48 hours.
- Black Water Damage (Category 3) is the most hazardous and expensive type of water damage. It is usually caused by a sewer backup. This type of water damage contains harmful bacteria and chemicals that are unsafe to your health.
No matter what category of water damage is present in your home, SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County has the trained professionals and the right equipment to quickly take care of the problem. Call us at (860)887-0447
4 Myths Uncovered About Water Damage
10/14/2019 (Permalink)
Photo by Jong Marshes via Upsplash
Do you have water in your home? Don't fall victim to these four common myths about water.
The Water Will Just Go Away
If there is a flood in your house the water will just dry itself out. Water can hide in your walls and underneath your flooring. Many times if the area is not totally dried out you can risk the chance of mold growth.
It Won’t Smell
If water gets in your floors and walls and is not properly removed, mold will grow. That musky odor coming from the previously wet area is mold. Water damaged areas will smell if not completely dried out and treated properly. Mold doesn’t only smell bad, it can also be dangerous to your health.
It Can Wait and It’s Not a Big Deal
There is a short window between water damage and mold growth. The longer you wait the harder and more extensive cleanup can be. Your possessions and your house are damaged each second the water sits on the surface of your items.
If I Can’t See Water It’s Not There
Water can be hiding in your walls, floors, or ceiling after a flood. Many times water is unseen and hiding in places that you cannot clean or get to. For instance, if you have a hot water heater leak water can be in your sheetrock or in your ceiling. Sewer leaks can be even more dangerous. Sewage can hold many hidden dangers that can cause you and your family to get sick.
SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County will give you the peace of mind that your water damage has been taken care of quickly and professionally. Call us right away at (860) 887-0447.
Prevent Ice Dams Now
11/5/2018 (Permalink)
Although it is a bit early for ice dams to be forming on your roof, now is the time to prevent ice dams from happening and leaving you and your family out in the cold!
What is an ice dam?
An ice dam is chunks of ice that form at the edge of your roof and prevents the melting snow from draining off your roof.
How do ice dams form?
Ice dams form when there is snow on the roof. Your roof temperature is not always even. When the higher parts of the roof are above 32ºF and the lower parts of your roof are below 32ºF and the temperature outside is also below 32ºF over a period of time the water from the top flows down and then freezes at the colder part, the lower part of your roof, and forms a dam. The longer these conditions continue, the larger the dam can form. This dam then blocks the rest of the snow that is melting from draining off the roof.
What damage can an ice dam cause?
The water that has backed up needs to go somewhere. When this water is trapped, it can leak into walls, attics, ceilings, insulation and other areas. This water unnoticed or not taken care of can leak to mold in your home causing allergy, respiratory and other health problems.
How can I best prevent an ice dam from forming?
- For immediate action, clear the snow from your roof by using a roof rake or hiring a professional
- Clear your gutters from leaves and debris during the fall, before the colder temperature start to set in.
- Roof ventilation can help keep the temperature of your roof more uniform. Ridge and soffit vents can help with this
- Make sure your attic is sealed and insulated
- Make sure that your ducts for the kitchen, bathroom or laundry are sealed, insulated and lead outside through the roof, walls and never though the soffit.
- Install steel flashing around chimneys
- Use a fire-stop sealant to caulk and seal electrical cable and vent pipes
Fall is the best time to take preventative action now to preventing ice dams from forming and causing damage to your home this winter.
Should an ice dam form on your home this winter and cause water damage to your home or business, SERVPRO of Norwich and Windham County has the equipment and professionally trained team to clean up the damage and make it “Like it never even happened.®”
Norwich / Windham County helps with flooded basements!
5/26/2017 (Permalink)
Eastern Connecticut has seen a lot of rain this month. Our total rainfall for the Month of May officially recorded at Bradly International airport is 3.98 inches.
All of this rain can possibly cause your basement to flood. While the flooding of a basement can occur at any time, most often flooding occurs during heavy rain or snow that is rapidly melting. Here are a few other causes of basement flooding:
- A sloping lot where water flow is toward the home
- A foundation where cracks have developed allowing water to seep in
- Issues with pipes
- A sump pump that has failed
- Sewer backup
If all the rain has not only be growing your May flowers, but also invading your basement, then call us at SERVPRO of Norwich / Windham County. We are trained water restoration professionals and are available 24 hors a day, 7 days a week to handle your flooding situation correctly.
Have you experienced any flooding?
Call us today - SERVPRO of Norwich / Windham County to help (860) 887-0447
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