How to Protect Older Homes from Water Damage

10/16/2024 (Permalink)

We’re here to help you clean up any water damage and restore your home back to normal!

Older homes have a charm and character that many newer houses lack. However, with that charm often comes a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to water damage. In Burlington, MA, homeowners of older properties need to be especially vigilant about potential water damage issues. This blog will explore the common causes of water damage in older homes, prevention tips, and steps to take if your home is affected.

Common Causes of Water Damage in Older Homes

Old Plumbing Systems

Older homes often have outdated plumbing systems made from materials like galvanized steel or cast iron, which can corrode and deteriorate over time. This corrosion can lead to leaks and bursts, causing significant water damage.

Roofing Issues

Roofs on older homes may have missing or damaged shingles, worn-out flashing, or other issues that allow water to seep in. This can result in water damage to the attic, ceilings, and walls.

Poor Drainage Systems

Many older homes were built without modern drainage systems, leading to water pooling around the foundation. This can cause basement flooding and structural damage over time.

Worn Waterproofing

Waterproofing materials and techniques used decades ago may no longer be effective. Basements and crawl spaces in older homes are particularly vulnerable to water intrusion if the waterproofing has failed.

Hidden Leaks

Hidden leaks behind walls or under floors can go unnoticed for long periods, causing extensive damage. These leaks often occur in places where pipes have aged and weakened.

Prevention Tips

Regular Inspections

Regular inspections of your home’s plumbing, roof, and foundation can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as rust on pipes, missing shingles, or cracks in the foundation.

Upgrade Plumbing and Roofing

Consider upgrading your home’s plumbing and roofing systems if they are old or showing signs of damage. Modern materials are more durable and can prevent future water damage.

Improve Drainage

Ensure that your home has a proper drainage system to direct water away from the foundation. This might involve installing gutters, downspouts, and French drains.

Use Dehumidifiers

Basements and crawl spaces in older homes can benefit from the use of dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels and prevent mold growth. Keeping humidity levels below 60% can significantly reduce the risk of water damage.

Steps to Take If Your Home Is Affected

Act Quickly

If you discover water damage in your home, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage. The longer water sits, the more extensive the damage can become.

Remove Standing Water

Use pumps, wet/dry vacuums, and towels to remove any standing water as soon as possible. This will help prevent water from seeping into walls and floors.

Dry and Dehumidify

Thoroughly dry the affected areas using fans and dehumidifiers. Ensure that all moisture is removed to prevent mold growth.

Clean and Disinfect

Clean and disinfect all surfaces that come into contact with water. Use mold-killing products to ensure that any mold spores are eliminated.

Seek Professional Help

For significant water damage, it’s best to seek professional help. Water damage restoration specialists have the tools and expertise to handle the situation effectively.

Protect Your Burlington Home

Water damage in older homes can be a serious issue, but with regular maintenance and immediate action, it can be managed effectively. If you encounter water damage in your Burlington, MA home, don’t hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Burlington/Woburn. We’re here to help you clean up any water damage and restore your home back to normal!

Shielding Your Home: The Crucial Role of Proper Insulation in Preventing Water Damage

6/20/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on homes, causing structural deterioration, mold growth, and costly repairs. While external factors such as heavy rainfall and flooding contribute to water intrusion, the role of proper insulation in preventing water damage is often overlooked. In this blog, we'll delve into the critical role of insulation in safeguarding homes against water damage and explore how homeowners can ensure their insulation is up to the task of protecting their property.

Barrier Against Moisture

Proper insulation acts as a barrier against moisture infiltration, helping to prevent water from seeping into the home's interior. Insulation materials such as foam boards, spray foam, and fiberglass create a protective barrier that resists water penetration, keeping the interior of the home dry and free from water damage.

Reducing Condensation

In addition to preventing external moisture intrusion, insulation helps regulate indoor humidity levels and reduces condensation buildup. Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with cold surfaces, leading to water droplets forming on walls, ceilings, and windowsills. Proper insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, minimizing condensation and the risk of water damage caused by excess moisture buildup.

Protecting Pipes and Plumbing

Insulation plays a crucial role in protecting pipes and plumbing fixtures from freezing temperatures and subsequent bursts. Properly insulated pipes are less susceptible to freezing, reducing the risk of pipe bursts and water damage. Insulating exposed pipes in attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls helps maintain consistent temperatures and prevents water damage caused by frozen or burst pipes.

Preventing Roof Leaks

Roof insulation is essential for preventing roof leaks and water damage. Proper insulation in the attic helps regulate attic temperatures, reducing the risk of ice dams and snowmelt infiltration that can lead to roof leaks. Additionally, insulation helps prevent heat loss through the roof, minimizing the formation of ice dams and reducing the likelihood of water infiltration during winter months.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency

Beyond its role in preventing water damage, insulation contributes to overall energy efficiency and comfort in the home. Properly insulated homes require less energy for heating and cooling, reducing utility bills and environmental impact. By sealing gaps and reducing air leakage, insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, ensuring a comfortable living environment year-round.

Choosing the Right Insulation

Selecting the right insulation materials and installation methods is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of your home's insulation. Consider factors such as R-value, moisture resistance, and compatibility with existing building materials when choosing insulation for your home. Consult with insulation professionals to determine the most suitable insulation options for your climate, budget, and specific needs.

Proper insulation plays a vital role in protecting homes against water damage, reducing energy consumption, and enhancing overall comfort and durability. By serving as a barrier against moisture infiltration, reducing condensation, protecting pipes and plumbing, preventing roof leaks, and enhancing energy efficiency, insulation helps safeguard homes from the devastating effects of water damage. Homeowners should prioritize proper insulation installation and maintenance to ensure their homes remain dry, comfortable, and resilient for years to come.

Dripping Disasters: Achieving Financial Preparedness for Water Damage Emergencies

2/7/2024 (Permalink)

Unforeseen water damage emergencies can wreak havoc on your finances if you're not prepared. From burst pipes to flooding, the financial implications can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of financial preparedness for water damage emergencies and explore practical steps to safeguard your finances in such situations.

Building an Emergency Fund

One of the key pillars of financial preparedness is establishing an emergency fund. Set aside a portion of your income specifically for unforeseen emergencies like water damage. Aim to accumulate at least three to six months' worth of living expenses to cover any unexpected expenses that may arise.

Reviewing Insurance Coverage

Thoroughly review your insurance policies, including homeowner's insurance or renter's insurance, to understand what types of water damage they cover. Consider adding additional coverage, such as flood insurance, if you live in an area prone to flooding. Understand the deductibles and limits of your policies to ensure you have appropriate coverage for water damage emergencies.

Regular Home Maintenance

Prevention is key when it comes to protecting your finances from water damage emergencies. Regularly inspect and maintain your home, ensuring that plumbing systems, roofing, gutters, and drainage are in good condition. By identifying and addressing potential issues early on, you can minimize the risk of extensive water damage and reduce the financial impact.

Understanding Liability and Responsibilities

Knowing your liability and responsibilities in the event of water damage emergencies is crucial. Understand whether you or your landlord is responsible for certain types of repairs or damages. Review your lease agreement or condominium association rules to determine who should bear the financial burden in specific situations.

Seeking Professional Assistance

Engaging the expertise of restoration professionals can help mitigate the financial impact of water damage emergencies. They can accurately assess the extent of the damage, provide cost estimates for restoration, and guide you through the insurance claims process. Prompt action and professional assistance can minimize the financial strain associated with water damage emergencies.

Documenting and Prioritizing Restoration Expenses

In the aftermath of a water damage emergency, document all expenses related to mitigation, restoration, and replacement. Keep copies of receipts, invoices, and estimates for insurance claims and tax purposes. Prioritize expenses based on urgency and budget constraints, balancing the need for immediate restoration with long-term financial stability.

Water damage emergencies can be financially taxing if you're not prepared. By building an emergency fund, reviewing insurance coverage, maintaining your home diligently, understanding liability, seeking professional assistance, and documenting expenses, you can achieve financial preparedness to navigate the financial challenges that water damage emergencies may bring.

Handling Water Damage During Home Renovations: Tips to Minimize and Address Unexpected Water Issues

10/24/2023 (Permalink)

Handling water damage during home renovations can be stressful.

Embarking on a home renovation project is an exciting time, but unexpected water damage can quickly turn your dreams into a nightmare. Whether you encounter a burst pipe, leaking roof, or plumbing mishap, it is crucial to handle water damage promptly to prevent further issues and protect your investment. In this blog post, we will provide you with tips and steps to help you effectively manage water damage during home renovations.

Prepare for the Unexpected

Budget for potential water damage: Include a contingency fund in your renovation budget to account for unexpected repairs, including water damage.

Inform your contractor: Communicate with your contractor about potential water damage risks, especially if you live in an older home or are renovating areas prone to leaks or plumbing issues.

Act Promptly

Shut off the main water supply: In the event of a burst pipe or significant leak, locate and shut off the main water supply immediately to minimize water damage. Protect your furniture, electronics, and other valuables by relocating them to a safe and dry area away from water damage.

Document the Damage

• Take photos and videos: Document the water damage thoroughly to provide evidence for insurance claims.
• Note details: Record the date, time, and extent of the damage for reference during restoration and insurance processes.

Assess the Situation

Determine where the water is coming from to address the cause and prevent further damage. It could be a plumbing issue, roof leak, or foundation problem.

Remove standing water using pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or professional water extraction services. Then, dry out the affected areas using fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows.

Hire Professionals

Consult water damage restoration experts: Water damage restoration professionals are trained to assess, mitigate, and repair water damage effectively. Seek their expertise to ensure thorough restoration and prevent future issues.

Address Underlying Issues

Once the water damage is under control, engage licensed professionals to address the underlying issues causing the water damage, whether it's plumbing repairs, roof fixes, or foundation work.

Take preventive measures to minimize future water damage risks, such as reinforcing waterproofing systems, installing gutter guards, or regular maintenance of plumbing and roof systems.

Communicate with Your Insurance Provider

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to initiate the claim process. Provide the photos, videos, and details you captured to assist with your insurance claim.

Handling water damage during home renovations can be stressful, but a proactive and systematic approach can help minimize the impact and ensure a successful restoration process. By preparing for the unexpected, acting promptly, documenting the damage, seeking professional help, addressing underlying issues, and communicating with your insurance provider, you can navigate water damage challenges and continue your renovation journey with confidence. Remember, a well-executed response to water damage can turn a setback into an opportunity for improvement and create a safer and more resilient home in the long run.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Leaky Faucet

7/27/2023 (Permalink)

A leaky faucet not only wastes water but can also be an annoying and costly problem if left unaddressed. The good news is that many faucet leaks can be fixed easily with a few basic tools and some simple troubleshooting. In this blog post, we'll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to fix a leaky faucet, helping you save water, money, and the frustration of a dripping faucet.

Step 1: Gather the Tools

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. You'll typically need an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, replacement parts, and plumber's tape. Ensure you have the correct replacement parts for your specific faucet model.

Step 2: Turn off the Water Supply

Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn off the water supply to the faucet. If there are no individual shutoff valves, consider turning off the main water supply to your home. This precautionary step will prevent water from flowing while you work on the faucet.

Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet

Depending on the type of faucet, you may need to remove a decorative cap, handle screw, or retaining nut to access the cartridge or valve inside. Use the appropriate screwdriver or wrench to carefully remove these components.

Step 4: Inspect and Replace O-Rings or Washers

Once you've accessed the internal components, inspect the O-rings and washers for wear, cracks, or damage. These components are often the culprits behind faucet leaks. Replace any worn or damaged parts with new ones of the same size and type. Apply plumber's tape to the threads of the valve stem to ensure a secure seal.

Step 5: Reassemble the Faucet

Carefully reassemble the faucet in the reverse order of disassembly. Make sure all components are properly aligned and tightened. Be mindful not to overtighten, as this can cause damage to the faucet.

Step 6: Test for Leaks

With the faucet reassembled, turn on the water supply and test for leaks. Pay close attention to the base of the faucet, the handles, and any connection points. If you notice any leaks, carefully tighten the components or replace faulty parts as necessary.

Step 7: Addressing Cartridge or Ceramic Disc Faucets

If you have a cartridge or ceramic disc faucet, the procedure may vary slightly. In such cases, you may need to replace the cartridge or ceramic disc assembly. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions or consult a plumbing professional for guidance specific to your faucet model.

Step 8: Seeking Professional Assistance

If you've followed the steps above and the leak persists or if you encounter a more complex faucet design, it may be time to seek professional assistance. A licensed plumber can provide expertise and ensure proper repair or replacement of the faucet components.

Fixing a leaky faucet is a task that can be accomplished by most homeowners with basic DIY skills. By following the step-by-step guide outlined above, you can effectively address the most common faucet leaks, saving water and preventing further damage. Remember to gather the necessary tools, turn off the water supply, inspect and replace worn components, and test for leaks after reassembling the faucet. Should you encounter challenges or have a more complex faucet design, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber for expert assistance. With a little effort and know-how, you can bid farewell to that pesky dripping faucet and enjoy the benefits of a properly functioning plumbing fixture.

Unpacking the Myth: Will Filing an Insurance Claim Always Raise Your Rates?

3/11/2023 (Permalink)

Insurance is a crucial financial safety net that provides protection against unexpected events such as accidents, theft, and damage to property. However, some people hesitate to file a claim, fearing that it might raise their insurance rates. This is a valid concern, and understanding how filing an insurance claim affects your rates can help you make an informed decision.

The short answer is yes, filing an insurance claim can raise your rates. Insurance companies use several factors to determine your premium, including your driving history, credit score, and claims history. If you file a claim, it signals to the insurance company that you are at a higher risk of making future claims. As a result, they may increase your premiums to offset that risk.

However, there are exceptions to this rule. For example, if you have a policy that includes accident forgiveness, your first accident may not raise your rates. Accident forgiveness is a feature that some insurance companies offer that allows policyholders to file a claim without their premiums increasing.

Another factor that can affect whether your rates will increase is the amount of the claim. If you file a small claim, such as a broken windshield or a minor fender-bender, your rates may not increase as much as they would for a larger claim, such as a totaled car or significant property damage.

Additionally, some insurance companies may not raise your rates if the accident was not your fault. If you were involved in an accident where the other driver was at fault, your insurance company may not penalize you for filing a claim.

Overall, whether your rates will increase after filing a claim depends on several factors, including the amount of the claim, your claims history, and the terms of your policy. To minimize the risk of a rate increase, it's essential to consider whether the claim is worth filing in the first place.

If the cost of the damage is less than your deductible, it may not be worth filing a claim. In this case, it may be better to pay for the damage out of pocket to avoid a rate increase.

In conclusion, filing an insurance claim can raise your rates, but it's not always the case. Insurance companies use several factors to determine your premiums, and filing a claim is one of them. To minimize the risk of a rate increase, it's essential to consider the amount of the claim, your claims history, and the terms of your policy before filing a claim.

Top 5 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

12/12/2022 (Permalink)

Water has ruined the ceiling tiles in this commercial building.

5 Causes of Commercial Water Damage

Water damage is among the most common types of property damage in the United States. Water damage can happen at any time, and it’s a problem that requires an immediate response. If you don't act quickly, mold growth can occur on damp surfaces and cause serious damage to your commercial property. 

1. Leaking Plumbing

Leaking plumbing pipes are one of the most common causes of commercial water damage, so you'll want to be able to spot them in your building. Leaks can develop anywhere in a plumbing system—from faucets, toilets, and the water heater, to branches and drains. The first step in diagnosing a leak is determining where it's coming from by checking each fixture individually. If you find a small amount of water around one area more often than others such as near a sink, it could indicate that there's a problem with your plumbing system. 

2. Degraded Water Lines

Water lines can get old and degrade. As the water flows through your system, it picks up minerals from the soil in your pipes. These minerals build up over time and form scale, which can cause clogs to form inside your system. You might also see rust stains or notice that the water pressure has dropped significantly since you moved into your building.

If you have plastic piping instead of metal pipe in some areas of your building, this can increase the chances that mold will grow inside those pipes as well as on any wet surfaces near them. It's also possible that there's a crack somewhere along these pipes.

3. Blocked Drains

It’s important to note that blocked drains are a problem that can be caused by many things. For example, toilet paper, hair products and other household products can get stuck in the drain. However, there are also ways to prevent this from happening in the future.

If you notice that your drains are beginning to get clogged up regularly, consider using some drain cleaner every now and then so that you keep them clean and clear at all times. If you find yourself with an especially stubborn blockage in your sink or shower drain. then it might be time to contact a professional plumber for assistance.

4. Faulty Appliances

Faulty appliances can cause water damage, fires and electrical problems. If you have a faulty appliance, it may be time to replace it with a new one. 

Here are a few types of damage that can occur due to faulty appliances:

• Water Damage: Faulty appliances can leak or burst due to wear and tear. This can lead to extensive water damage in your commercial space.
• Fire Damage: A faulty appliance is more likely to catch fire for numerous reasons. If this happens, call the fire department immediately! SERVPRO of Burlington/Woburn can assist with all the fire damage cleanup and restoration once the fire has been put out.
• Mold Damage: If water damage event due to a faulty appliance occurs on your property, then mold can begin to grow almost immediately in the moist environment created by standing water. Calling a professional water cleanup crew as quickly as possible can prevent a mold infestation from breaking out.  

5. Malfunctioning Roofs

Leaking roofs are a common cause of commercial water damage. Roof leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor installation and maintenance, age, bad weather and more. If you notice signs that your roof is leaking (such as water stains on walls or ceilings), it's important to act quickly before the damage worsens.

Conclusion

Be sure to call SERVPRO for water damage restoration services if you need help with any of these issues. Our team is here to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to help you get your business back up and running after a water damage event.

Is a Frozen Pipe Burst Covered by Insurance?

11/7/2022 (Permalink)

Do Insurance Policies Cover a Burst Frozen Pipe?

Freezing pipes are a common issue in homes during cold weather. Frozen pipes cause flooding and can lead to mold growth and secondary damage to your home if they aren't dealt with quickly. Fortunately, most standard homeowners’ insurance policies do cover damages from frozen pipes (although coverage varies by company). Here's what you need to know about this type of claim so that you can act fast if your pipes freeze!

Frozen pipes are a common issue in the winter, and they can happen any time the temperature falls below zero.

The cold weather prevents water from flowing through your pipes as it normally would—which means that if you don't take care of them, the water will eventually solidify into ice and burst them apart. This is why it's so important to prevent frozen pipes in the first place.

To avoid this unfortunate scenario, we recommend checking on your plumbing regularly during freezing temperatures and taking steps to keep water flowing freely through your home's network of pipes. Below are some general tips for keeping your plumbing safe from freezing damage:

1. Use insulation around exposed parts like faucets or fixtures that might freeze up during cold spells (or wrap them in towels).

2. Place containers of hot water throughout your house; these act as heat traps by absorbing excess heat from appliances or rooms before releasing it into other parts of your home.

A frozen pipe can lead to flooding and all the associated home damage, including water damage and mold growth.

This is because when a pipe bursts it causes a sudden release of liquid that can cause secondary damage like leaks and cracks in your flooring, walls, or ceilings.

It's important to remember that you should never try to thaw out a burst water main on your own by using an open flame. In fact, this can make things much worse as it could cause further damage to your home or even start a fire!

Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies do cover damages from frozen pipes.

If you have a separate water damage or flood insurance policy, then the damage is likely covered. But if you don't have a specific water-related coverage, a frozen pipe burst could be considered an excluded peril under your homeowners insurance policy and not be covered.

Here are some things to consider:

• Some policies include language that specifically excludes damage caused by freezing temperatures. You can't just assume that a broken pipe will be covered; you'll need to check with your agent or company representative first. In fact, one of our readers wrote in asking whether their frozen pipe burst would be covered by their homeowner’s insurance policy—and it wasn't!
• Keep in mind that even if freezing weather isn't an excluded peril under your specific policy—or if its exclusionary language doesn't apply—your insurer may still deny coverage for other reasons (like when there's been no proof of loss). Make sure to keep good records so that any claim can be processed quickly.

If you have a pipe burst due to freezing, you need to act fast to reduce secondary damage and your claim cost.

First, call an insured plumber. If it's an emergency, they'll come right away. Don't try DIY repairs. Your insurance company will penalize you for any self-repair attempts that cause damage or additional claims down the road.

Second, shut off water to the affected area and cover it with a tarp until a professional can arrive and make repairs (if possible). This will keep things dry while waiting for help from an insured plumber.

Most insurance companies will cover frozen pipes, so it's important to know what's covered by your policy.

If you wait too long to report the issue and get your pipes thawed out by a professional, your claim could be denied. If this happens and there was no coverage for damage caused by freezing in your policy, you'll have to pay for everything yourself—and that can add up quickly!

So, if you've got frozen plumbing problems on your hands and want to avoid the hassle of filing an insurance claim or paying full price for repairs yourself, here's how to handle the situation.

We hope that this article answered your questions about frozen pipes and insurance coverage. If you have any other questions, or if you need help filing a claim, we’re here to help!

3 Things You Should Know About Water Damage

7/23/2022 (Permalink)

Here Are a Few Facts About Water Damage

If you own a home, then it is likely that you will be dealing with some form of water damage at some point. Whether from a pipe burst, a leak or a storm, this damage can be costly and extensive. The following are a few facts about water damage that you may find helpful if you experience it in your Burlington, MA home.

1. There Are a Variety of Causes
When it comes to water damage, there are several different potential sources. In some cases, it may be something unpredictable like a severe storm or flooding. Other times, it may be something like a clogged toilet or a frozen pipe. While you cannot control accidents or the weather, you should do what you can to prevent damage by performing regular maintenance on your home.

2. There are Three Categories of Water
You might think that all water damage is the same, but this is not the case. There are three categories of water contamination, and how you should proceed is largely determined by which one is involved. Something like a broken water line will usually involve category 1 or clean water, but water from overflowing plumbing or floods is usually category 3. This means that it is highly contaminated and should be handled carefully. Thorough sanitization of the area will be necessary.

3. It Can Cause a Lot of Secondary Damage
Even if it is from a clean source like a pipe burst, water can cause quite a bit of secondary damage. Mold grows easily in moist environments, so if the water is not removed quickly, you can end up with a lot of fungal growth. Water can also cause materials to rot or warp.

If you have damage from a pipe burst or other source of water, then you will need to have it taken care of quickly. They can perform any necessary cleanup and sanitization before making repairs.

4 Important Tips for Dealing With Water in a Home

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in a home in Wilmington, MA.

4 Important Water Management Tips for Your Home

Water in your home can strike at all different times. It could happen late at night when everyone is asleep, or it could occur when you are away for the day or even when you are on a vacation. There is no good time to have water damage in your home in Wilmington, MA. There are ways, however, to minimize potential issues. Following these tips can make a difficult situation better.

1. Turn Off the Water Supply
As soon as you realize water is spreading into your home, find the closest turn-off valve. By reducing the volume of liquid that gets released, you decrease the damage level to walls, furniture and personal items. Broken pipes can release many gallons of water into your home in a matter of minutes, so it is a good idea to become familiar with the location of turn-off valves in your home.

2. Make Sure Everyone Is Safe
In addition to water damage that impacts property, unwanted water in your home poses a long list of risks. It can impact electrical systems and increase the chance of a shock hazard. If the water is contaminated, make sure pets and children stay away from the water spill.

3. Call for a Profesional Water Cleanup
A local water restoration company can arrive at your home within hours of being called. Trained technicians will quickly remove all standing water, dry out moist areas and come up with an efficient and safe restoration plan, returning your home to its original condition.

4. Keep a Lookout for Mold Growth
A water spill can lead to mold growth, especially if the area is not cleaned according to professional standards. Look for the tell-tale signs of mold growth after a spill.
Water damage is a serious concern. Make sure you take immediate action to reduce its impact on your home.

5 Steps to Water Restoration

3/9/2022 (Permalink)

Water extraction in a commercial building in Wilmington, MA.

Pipe Burst Cleanup

When you are a business owner, you already have a million things to worry about. Having a situation that requires a pipe burst cleanup is one concern you do not want to add to your list. If you own a business in Wilmington, MA, and you are facing this kind of problem, you will need to seek out the help of a water cleanup professional to assist you. When you call an expert, you can expect them to talk about "water damage restoration." This is what that entails.

1. Inspecting the Property

In the first part of the restoration process, a professional will come out to assess the damage. Was the pipe burst caused by supply line leaking or another reason? Is damage limited to one area or is it extensive?

2. Removing the Water

Next, you can expect the company you hire to remove standing water via extraction. Depending on the situation, they may use submersible pumps or various versions of professional grade vacuums.

3. Drying and Dehumidifying the Interior

After water removal, the next step of a pipe burst cleanup is drying everything out. By using special dehumidifiers and monitoring moisture levels, professionals can ensure the damaged area is ready for restoration.

4. Cleaning and Sanitizing the Property

Before making repairs, the next things to address are cleaning and sanitization. During this phase, remediation experts will also remove any debris as part of the cleaning procedure.

5. Restoring the Business

After a thorough inspection and cleaning, your building will finally be ready for the actual restoration to begin. In this final stage, you can expect the professionals you hire to restore your business to its previous condition. Sometimes, this work can be extensive and may even include carpet and drywall replacement.
If your commercial property is in need of a pipe burst cleanup, it can be beneficial to understand the restoration process. You can prepare for the work ahead by learning more about what to expect.

Sewage Cleanup and Restoration

2/11/2022 (Permalink)

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO of Burlington/ Woburn has specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage.

Toilet Overflow or Sewer Backup?

Water damage can be classified into three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO of Burlington/ Woburn will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The Three Types of Contaminated Water

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or a leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on the length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

• Water from a clean source like a broken water line
• If left untreated can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

• It May contain bacteria and viruses
• Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

• May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
• Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Hour Emergency Service

Water contaminated with sewage backup should be considered an emergency situation and dealt with as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of Burlington/Woburn is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They are water damage restoration specialists with specialized training, equipment and protective gear to safely restore your home or business.