Recent Water Damage Posts

Water Damage Can Leave Odors

1/17/2022 (Permalink)

You can’t always see water damage, but you can always smell it.

You can’t always see water damage, but you can always smell it. Most water damage odors are hard to ignore and alert you that there is damage in your home. Odors from water damage can be noticeable immediately or can occur sometime after the water is removed. Here are some common odors: 

  • Muddy smell: If outdoor flooding has entered the home, you may notice an earthy smell associated with lakes. 
  • Sewage smell: If water damage in your home is a result of a backed-up sewer, you will immediately notice the odor of raw sewage. 
  • Musty odors: Musty odors occur after the fact. This is a sign that mold is growing in your home. 

Always remember to trust your nose. If it smells wrong, it probably is. The sooner you notice the problem, the sooner we can help. A highly trained SERVPRO professional can access the degree of your damage. To get rid of the odor in your home, our franchise professionals will find the source of the odor and determine the best methods to neutralize and eliminate the odor from your home.  

Vacation Water Damage

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

This a photo of a sump pump. Unfortunately, the sump pump failed during the homeowner's vacation and caused water damage in their basement.

When preparing and packing for a vacation or getaway, you are always thinking ahead to what you are going to be doing while gone. But as you are planning your trip, take the time leading up to leaving to check around your home and make any preventative measures against any water issues that may arise while you are gone.  

Inspect Water Sources – Appliances, Pipes and Windows

Large Appliances- The hoses that bring water in and out can often develop weak sections, tears, or even hose kinks. Any of these issues can cause the hose to malfunction, causing water leaks to happen. It is also a good idea to periodically pull your appliances out from the wall, and check under them to ensure there are no issues happening from small leaks.

Windows- Check the seals around the window for discoloration. If there is some signs of breaking down, take the time to reseal those areas.  

Pipes- Check all exposed pipes for any sign of weakness, including rusting or small cracking.

Guard Against the Elements

If taking a trip during cooler months, instead of turning the heat off, simply turn the temperature down a little lower. Turning it completely off can cause water pipes or lines to freeze and bust. Also, check outside or any pipes that are exposed to the elements, and make sure to insulate them.  This also includes any that may be in your garage and exposed to more of the elements. 

Enlist Backup

Have someone you trust come and walk through your home a few times while you are gone. This ensures that if anything happens, you are finding it early, and not when you are arriving home.

Limiting Water Damage

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

Does your house look like this? Give us a call!

Stopping the water is the single most important way to limit the amount of damage.  DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE IS LOCATED IN YOUR HOME OR PROPERTY? 

Water leaks can come from several places in your home or business. The most common causes are: 

  • leaking/bursting pipes
  • washing machine water supply line
  • air conditioning condensation 
  • blocked drains
  • malfunctioning sprinkler systems
  • leaking water heater
  • toilet overflows
  • sewer backups
  • sump pump malfunction
  • water overflow (forgot to turn off the faucet)
  • ice damage
  • refrigerator ice maker lines 
  • storm damage

After you've realized you have a water leak problem, especially if you don't know where it's coming from, turn off the water ASAP!

Then call SERVPRO of Farmington at 573-756-5191.

We're available day or night to extract the water and start the drying process using exceptional equipment designed to get the job done "Like it never even happened."

DDIY: Don't Do It Yourself

8/20/2021 (Permalink)

We have specialized equipment to restore your home.

DDIY (Don't Do It Yourself): Water Damage Edition

When it comes to being a homeowner, especially nowadays, there are a lot of projects you can do yourself. There are DIY bathrooms, kitchens, and even other home repairs; however, DIY water damages, almost always end in disaster. 

When water damage occurs in your home, there are many factors at hand that require professional assistance. When water damage happens, there can be conditions that require an expert, some of those include: 

  • The water you don't see: Water can find its way into a lot of the nooks and crannies of your home, without you knowing it. SERVPRO of Farmington has tools and technologies to find those water-damaged areas. 
  • Mold: Mold can begin to set up between 24-48 hours after water damage. A technician is trained to look for these signs. Calling a professional right away lessons your chances of mold growth significantly. 
  • Re-build: Sometimes water damage can be filled with contaminants. This kind of water damage requires everything to go. We must remove drywall, carpet, anything impacted that the contaminated water touched. We have the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to handle these situations and rebuild the areas that had to be removed. 

Water damage is not something you want to DIY. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Farmington to help, and we can make your water damage "Like it never even happened." 

Water Damage Repair After Water Leak

8/18/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage? Call us.

Need Water Removal Services? – Call SERVPRO

Water clean-up after a water leak often involves removing water from carpeting and underpadding. Water may have seeped from adjacent rooms such as kitchens or bathrooms where the original leak occurred and soaked the carpets, underpadding, and even the subfloor.

SERVPRO provides water damage repair and water cleanup. We take safety very seriously for our employees and especially our clients. For example, floating carpeting and underpadding improves the time it takes to dry the carpet. Dry air is blown under the carpeting to absorb moisture and then dried using dehumidifiers.

While the drying operation is taking place, we implement the following safety procedures to avoid injuries:

  • Avoid walking on floated carpets to prevent tripping
  • Cover tack strips with foam strips to prevent injuries
  • Tack strips can cause health effects

Once everything is dried, our team will reinstall the carpet and padding as part of our water damage restoration service. Fast drying and action by SERVPRO can reduce the possibility of carpet delamination requiring replacement.

Call SERVPRO of Farmington for water damage repair services. We can help 24/7. Call 573-756-5191.

Keep Your Lawn Looking Its Best!

6/2/2021 (Permalink)

Keep your lawn looking it's best!

Keeping a well-maintained landscape and a plush, green lawn makes your business more appealing to clients and customers. You count on your commercial irrigation system to work when it’s needed. To keep your sprinklers in top working condition, however, they require routine irrigation maintenance. There are several steps you should take to keep your lawn looking its best.

  1. Annual Inspections
    Before you start up your sprinkler system in the spring, you must check it carefully. This is the perfect time of year to hire an irrigation specialist to inspect the entire system for broken lines, leaks, and sprinkler heads that are misdirected.
    The water management system should also be checked to ensure you aren’t wasting water.
  2. Monthly Maintenance Checks
    In addition to annual inspections, you should check the sprinklers on a monthly basis in the warmer weather. Foot traffic, bicycles, and even animals can cause a lot of damage to sprinkler heads. Look for cracked, missing, or clogged heads. Clean, repair or replace the problems right away.
    Your irrigation maintenance plan should also look for sprinkler run-off. If an area of the lawn becomes too saturated, you must adjust the direction of the sprinkler heads. If the heads are not adjusted properly, this can create sprinkler flooding. Once this occurs, excess water may seep into the ground and cause flooding within your building.
    If you ever discover flooding inside the premises, contact a water damage repair service as soon as possible to assess the damage and create a water damage remediation plan.
  3. Additional Considerations
    Consider installing water pressure equipment to help regulate your sprinkler system’s water pressure. Some parts of the lawn may also require differing amounts of water. Adjust each zone to meet the needs of that area. A well-maintained lawn depends on a thorough irrigation maintenance system. Following a few simple steps will help keep your landscaping in top shape.

How Quickly Should Businesses Act When Water Damage Occurs?

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

A commercial water damage in Park Hills, MO.

An unexpected water disaster can be detrimental to any business, large or small. The key to keeping water damage to a minimum and restoring your business to a functional state again is based on how quickly you react to water damage. While some situations seem minor, even small amounts of water can cause significant damage if left unchecked. See how much damage can happen in a small amount of time without proper water damage remediation.

How much damage can happen over time when a water disaster occurs?

Water damage within minutes

  • Water quickly spreads into floors, drywall, fixtures, equipment, and documents.

Damage in the first 24 hours

  • Drywall swells and breaks from the saturation
  • Hardwoods and furnishings swell and crack
  • Microbial growth begins

Water damage within 5 days

  • Mold growth accelerates
  • Wood is saturated and warped
  • Ceilings collapse
  • Flooring is likely unsalvageable

Unchecked damage after 5 days

  • Structural safety is compromised
  • Contaminants are a serious threat
  • Restoration costs escalate

How your business can be prepared for water damage

To be prepared, you need to develop a contingency plan in case of water damage or any other kind of emergency. SERVPRO of Farmington has an Emergency Ready Profile that is a free assessment of your facility when such disasters strike your business. The SERVPRO ERP identifies prioritized points of contact for authorizing the cleanup and restoration to begin. This saves time which will get your business up and running quicker saving time and money. It also provides detailed information such as water and gas shut-off valve locations and other priority information to accelerate reaction time and keep damage to a minimum. This will provide the crews reacting to your situation a quick reference of what to do, how to do it, and who to call…crucial when time is of the essence!

Protect your business by setting up an ERP with SERVPRO of Farmington Contact us at 573-756-5191 to learn more about protecting your business. We’re here 24/7 to assist you with any emergency you may experience.

Info about Water Damage

8/21/2020 (Permalink)

This is our injectidry system we use whenever we are trying to dry and save hardwood flooring.

Now that businesses are beginning to open their doors, the possibility of water damage is much more prevalent. Old pipes that have been sitting dormant during the stay in home order may now be susceptible to leaks. When water damage is present, it spreads quickly, heightening the chances of mold growth and damage to your business or home. It is crucial that the affected areas are properly mitigated as rapidly as possible, and at SERVPRO of Farmington, we have our service professionals ready 24/7.

What is water damage? Water damage is any harm that is caused by water, which includes flooding, leaks, pipe bursts, appliance malfunctions and many more. Not only can the water ruin your carpets, ceiling, and furniture, but it can also destroy precious family possessions, important documents, and irreplaceable personal items. At SERVPRO of Farmington, we understand how important it is to protect your personal belongings and documents, and we will set an immediate plan of action to remove or protect your items, while our highly trained and certified experts mitigate the affected areas to prevent further damage or mold development.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Farmington is a team of certified water technician specialists with the proper equipment and training to handle your needs. Our experts will assess the damage, extract, and mitigate the water damage and develop a drying plan to make water damage in your home or business “Like it never even happened.” We will keep you updated every step of the way so you can feel confident after disaster strikes.

Sewage Backups- YUCK!

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

A Potosi, MO homeowner called us whenever he found sewage in his finished basement.

If you have a sewage backup to your property, SERVPRO of Farmington is on standby to assist you. Whether it is the middle of the day or the middle of the night, SERVPRO is here to help. We have trained and certified technicians on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to assist you with any sewage water cleanup you need to your property. Backups can happen at any time to any property, commercial or residential. SERVPRO is trained and experienced in handling sewage backups of all kinds.  And not only is our production and field work top-notch, but we have the administrative support to handle all the paperwork involved that you will need for your insurance company or any needs regarding your water damage. Call SERVPRO day or night, anytime, at 573-756-5191. We are centrally located, making our response time to your property very quick!

What are the benefits of water damage restoration?

8/20/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage? We can help!

Once a flood or fire damages an individual's home, it is important for them to attain speedy, efficient water damage restoration services. The restoration process is a multi-faceted one, involving a vast range of services including cleaning and various repairs. Moreover, it is important that this process begins as quickly as possible to ensure that your property isn't subjected to extensive damage. The best way to guarantee that your property is restored quickly and correctly is by obtaining professional water damage restoration services. Here are several reasons why you should take this course of action: 

Fast Restoration 

When you hire a team of professional water damage experts, they will complete your cleanup, repair, and restoration work with lightning speed. The contractors will be able to get the work done quickly due to their extensive experience in the restoration sector. Moreover, restoration firms will typically send multiple contractors to your property at one time. In so doing, the company specialists will be able to preclude your home from falling prey to secondary water damage. 

Mold and Mildew Growth Prevention 

In addition to ensuring the quick restoration of your property, water damage specialists are effective in reducing your susceptibility to a mold and mildew growth. They accomplish this objective by quickly removing excess water from the property. If mold is already present on your property, the water damage experts will utilize industrial grade cleaners and disinfectants to eliminate the fungus with skill and speed. This work is immensely important because ongoing exposure to mold can adversely impact your health. 

Holistic Help 

Another reason it's a good idea to call a water damage restoration company in the wake of a disaster is that they can offer holistic services. Unfortunately, there is a broad range of property issues that can come into being when your property is subjected to water damage. Luckily, water damage experts can address and resolve them all. Some of the services contractors provide to accomplish this objective include vent cleaning, air duct cleaning, odor removal, smoke removal, deodorization, sanitation, and content restoration. 

Don't Delay: Call SERVPRO of Farmington Today! 

If you're serious about restoring your property after water damage, SERVPRO of Farmington is the company to call. Our IICRC-certified technicians offer a full range of restoration services while simultaneously providing each client with 24/7 emergency services. Call us now to learn more about what we can do for you! 573-756-5191.

What To Do if You Find Water in Your Light Fixtures

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Water coming out of your light fixture? No problem.

Your roof is the crowning element of your home and you expect that it will protect your family for the duration of your lifetime there. But sometimes a leak can occur because of lack of maintenance, a broken pipe in the ceiling or damage from a storm. A leak can cause all kinds of damage, but often the first indication of a problem is finding water in light fixtures.

What To Do If You Find Water in a Light Fixture

Discovering that water is dripping through a ceiling fixture can be the start of a nightmare, especially if it is not handled correctly. Here are some guidelines to help you understand some of the steps that need to be taken. If the damage is from a storm, you will need to have the roof repaired and have a water and mold restoration company come and check for wood rot or black mold in the crawlspace and have the roof repaired.

If you have water in light fixtures because of a broken pipe in the ceiling, the first thing you need to do is shut off the water main so it stops flooding. Turn off the electricity to that light fixture so you don’t get electrocuted – electricity and water can be a lethal mix!

What To Do Next

Once the power and water have been shut off, a SERVPRO technician should inspect for ceiling damage and help determine what is needed for repair. The sheetrock will likely need to come down and the crawl space dried thoroughly. Insulation and sheetrock may need to be replaced and the wiring needs to be evaluated for safety. The light fixture may need to be replaced as well, rather than risking electrical danger. Never overlook water in light fixtures, as it is a sign of something that needs to be checked out. Hoping it will just dry out and go away could be a serious mistake. Make sure your roof is in good repair and have your pipes inspected to help prevent future problems.

Why Is There a Puddle Around My Toilet?

6/5/2020 (Permalink)

Leaking toilet in Ironton, MO.

Why Is There a Puddle Around My Toilet?

Happily, for most homeowners, toilets are one of the most reliable fixtures in the home. Sometimes, these essential items in the home will last upwards of 40 years. During all that time, the humble bowl only requires a little bit of care. Occasionally, however, you may run up against one of these situations:

  • The flush handle becomes loose
  • The toilet becomes clogged
  • The flapper valve wears out or gets damaged
  • Water leaks around the base of the toilet

For most of these situations, the repair is straightforward, but what can you do when faced with a leaking toilet?

Act Quickly

No matter what the cause of a bathroom leak, your best defense against extensive repairs and remodeling is acting quickly to correct the situation.

Leaky Wax Gaskets

A leak at the base of the toilet is usually the result of a worn-out wax seal. Use a towel to mop up the water on the floor and watch for water seeping from under the toilet. If the water comes from a different location, the problem could be a cracked tank, sweaty bowl, leaky shutoff valve, or a loose tube somewhere.

Try Tightening the Bolts

Sometimes, it is possible to apply more pressure on the wax ring by tightening up the bolts that hold the toilet in place. Tighten the bolts alternately, using consistent, gentle pressure. If the leak stops, you probably do not have to take any other steps. If the leaking toilet continues to be a problem, you'll need to replace the wax gasket.


This repair generally involves removing the toilet and, unhooking tubes and hardware, replacing the wax seal, and then putting everything back together.

Appliances that Commonly Cause Water Leaks

1/27/2020 (Permalink)

Washing machine leak or overflow? Call us, we can help!

There are an alarming number of situations that can cause water damage to homes—weather incidents, flooding and burst pipes often come to mind.

However, the source can also be from things we utilize every day, such as appliances that require water to operate. Prevention is key to stopping small, sneaky leaks from becoming a big problem, which is why we put together a guide of what appliances to watch out for and how to check them for drips.

What Appliances to Check for Water Damage

Hot Water Heater

Though hot water heaters can typically last as many as 15 years, they can begin leaking water much sooner due to faulty pipes and seals. Check regularly to avoid this from catching you by surprise and be sure you replace it based on the manufacturer’s recommended time frame.

Refrigerator

The ice maker inside of the refrigerator pulls water in to manufacture the ice, but the tubing it uses to do so can often falter. Add that to the fact that refrigerators are seldom moved, and you have a recipe for water damage to get out of hand before you even realize it has begun. Simply pulling the fridge away from the wall and checking for drips regularly is enough to prevent this from becoming an issue that gets out of hand.

Dishwasher

A dishwasher can be another common culprit for secluded damage because of how they are typically built into cabinets. Pulling them out of their cubby often is wise, especially if you have an older model. It is not uncommon for homeowners’ insurance policies to not cover water damage from older appliances, so this is extra important to note.

Washing Machine

Washing machine leaks are such a common problem that it is recommended to check their hoses as frequently as once a month to guard against wear and tear. Even with regular checks, exercise caution by replacing these hoses every five years regardless of if they appear worn.

 Air Conditioner

All air conditioning units manufacture condensation as part of their operations, but if there is an issue with their draining capabilities, issues can arise. The best way to prevent this is by following your manufacturer’s instructions regarding inspections and maintenance, as well as doing your own visual checks to ensure there is no water out of place in and around the unit.

If your home has been impacted by water damage or you’d like to put a plan in place in case it happens to you, contact us to learn how we can help.

Water Damage? Call us now!

8/23/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage? No problem.

Water from a leaking pipe or overflowing sink can damage a home quickly with the liquid spreading everywhere. Regardless of the cause, it is essential to shut the source of the water off as soon as you notice spillage in your home. Turn the faucets off if a sink is overflowing. Locate and turn the main water valve off to limit the amount of additional damage caused by a broken water pipe. Always confirm that it is safe to enter your home if there is deep pooling water.

SERVPRO of Farmington can focus on water removal in your home quickly. Before entering the area, we first ensure that it is safe to do so. If there are electrical appliances involved, we ensure that the electricity is turned off before entering. We also want to protect the occupants from any potential hazard.

We understand how important it is to limit the water damage by removing anything that can cause secondary negative effects. For example, books and papers on a wet carpet can cause stain transfer. We remove these materials from the room and the wet carpeting. Furniture can also be relocated or blocked with wood or high-density foam to avoid rusting or warping from the metal feet of couches, chairs, tables or appliances.

SERVPRO of Farmington’s water damage restoration technicians (WRT) understand that extracting as much water as possible before using dehumidification equipment expedites the recovery time. Portable extractors are used in most cases to remove the water. Squeegees can be used on hard surfaces to push away as much water as possible. Elimination of all the standing water allows your home to dry faster.

The best time to eradicate stains is while the carpeting is still damp. SERVPRO of Farmington can attempt to remove the markings on the carpets carefully to avoid further damage to walls or baseboards. We can save a section of the carpet to assist in the selection of new materials for the restoration of the home. All discarded materials are placed in plastic bags to avoid further damage to unaffected areas.

Call SERVPRO of Farmington at 573-756-5191 for immediate service!

SERVPRO of Farmington is Ready to Help 24/7!

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

We are here to help you 24/7! Day or night, we are ready to assist you in your time of need.

SERVPRO of Farmington is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today – 573-756-5191

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Farmington has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information?
  • Your insurance information? (Company and Agent)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business?
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Farmington

SERVPRO of Farmington specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Your Local Restoration Company

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

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

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are several reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – 573-756-5191

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Farmington and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill the Insurance Directly – One Less Thing for You to Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help- 573-756-5191

Safety Tips for Commercial Property

8/21/2019 (Permalink)

We are highly trained professionals and are capable of handling any size disaster.

Business Safety Tips for Your Commercial Property

Business Owners - This one's for you!

Establishing a business is an exciting venture, but you might not ask yourself, “What if a flood or natural disaster occur?”. Being prepared for anything in life is so important, especially if a lot of money is on the line. Here are important tips for when your commercial property has encountered flooding or storm damage. These tips will especially come in handy if you have a basement in your business.

8 Flood Prevention + Safety Tips for Your Business: 

  1. Develop a Comprehensive Plan – Establishing a simple, straight-forward protocol for when a flood strikes can benefit yourself and your employees. Substantial communication is key.
  2. Consider Flood Insurance – Damages from flooding can get very, very expensive. Damages can cost thousands and thousands of dollars. With insurance for your commercial business, you can have some peace of mind in the case of flash flooding or an unexpected storm.
  3. Inspect Area – Inspecting the area for any signs of water damage during severe rain is a good preventative measure. Looks for cracks and darker spots in the walls, ceilings, and flooring.
  4. Sump pump – Installing a sump pump will prevent water from seeping into the foundation.
  5. Waterproof membrane – Apply a waterproof seal around the areas you think water might enter. Filling in any cracks as well can help.
  6. Back-Flow Valve - Installing this in your main sewer pipe will prevent sewage backup.
  7. Anchor Fuel Tanks – Keep your fuel tanks anchored to prevent them from flowing away, falling over and spilling fuel into the area.
  8. Keep Calm and Call SERVPRO of Farmington at 573-756-5191 for your commercial or residential property needs.

SERVPRO's Water Loss Recovery Service Includes Sanitizing Affected Properties

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO of Farmington Dodge ProMaster is designed to carry all types of equipment use for water restoration.

You have a lot to worry about when your Farmington home is awash with water. Your biggest worry is probably how to extract the water and dry the soaked contents. Contamination is probably the last thing in your mind unless the flooding is from sewage back up or storm water. You are not alone in this line of thinking as most people only realize there is contamination at the very late stages of the restoration. So, how can you eliminate contamination through the steps taken during restoration?

The level of contamination in cases of water damage in Farmington depends on the kind of water that causes flooding. At SERVPRO, we follow industry standards that identify three types of water that floods properties. These types are black (category 3), grey (category 2) and clean water (category 1) and the contamination levels are highest in black water and lowest or nonexistent in clean water. Even potable drinking water can degrade to gray or black water if left unattended.
 
In addition to identifying the water type, our technicians also consider the materials affected by the water. If there was a carpet affected by clean or grey water, we treat it on both sides with an EPA-registered disinfectant. We also use the same disinfectant on the floor after extracting the water. This minimizes chances of further contamination.

Any upholstery in the affected area might also be contaminated. Unlike the carpet, which is easier to clean, upholstery has different nooks and crannies, so it requires special attention. Using tools such as ULV foggers, our team can administer the disinfectant in the form of a mist to reach and remove contaminants even in hidden parts of any upholstery item. Generally, we can group furnishings in a containment chamber for large disinfecting efforts.

 
Cleanliness is a relative state that depends on the percentage of contaminants eliminated. Properties can achieve four different levels of cleanliness depending on the effort put. From the dirty state, cleaning can change the property to sanitary or disinfected. This recovery from a water loss is the states that SERVPRO technicians can achieve. Sterile conditions are beyond our scope and service. These environments are needed in hospitals, labs, and other such structures. Reaching a sanitary state is the goal of most restoration processes.

Our SERVPRO technicians extract the water, vacuum and deodorize any affected areas ensuring they attain sanitary conditions. 
 
Calling SERVPRO of Farmington eases the restoration process for you. You can reach us 24/7 at (573) 756-5191.

Water Damage & SERVPRO

2/5/2019 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have questions or need help to ensure your property, contact SERVPRO of Farmington at 573-756-5191. 

You have so much invested in your home! Choose SERVPRO of Farmington to protect your most valuable asset!

Your home is a reflection of you and makes an impression on all those who enter it. You invest your time, energy, and hard-earned resources to maintain, protect and increase the value of your home. When you need work done on your home, you should expect the very best service at a fair price. That's where SERVPRO of Farmington shines.

Water Damage Safety

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

  • Is it safe to stay in the house?
  • Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  • Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Have A Water Damage Emergency? 
Call 573-756-5191

What To Do After Flooding

  • Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
  • Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
  • Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
  • Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
  • Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
  • Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
  • Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
  • Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT To Do After Flooding

  • Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
  • Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
  • Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
  • Don't use television or other household appliances.
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

Water Damage Assessment

8/23/2018 (Permalink)

The water damage restoration process begins with a detailed inspection of your property, including a damage assessment. The SERVPRO Franchise Professional is determining the scope of the damage so he or she can develop an appropriate plan of action.

They Identify and Stop the Water Source

They check for the source of water in your home and business and stop it. The water source must be stopped before the drying process can begin.

  • Stop the Source
  • Check for Contaminated Water

They Identify the Type of Water

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals must identify the category and classification of water to restore your property safely to industry specifications. The type of water contamination will affect the specific restoration processes used to restore your property.

  • White / Category 1 Water
  • Gray / Category 2 Water
  • Black / Category 3 Water

They Survey the Extent of the Water Damage and Inspect the Premises

They inspect and test your home to discover the extent of the damage. Additionally, they will look for safety concerns and explain them to you. If you are aware of any safety issues, such as asbestos or lead, please share them.

  • Survey Damage
  • Complete Safety Inspection

They Move or Block Furniture

They move furniture and property contents and block items to help prevent rust or furniture stains on wet carpet.

  • Block Furniture

The Restoration Process

8/21/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Farmington has the expertise and equipment to quickly restore your property to pre-water damage condition. They use a scientific approach to water removal and water cleanup that emphasizes monitoring and documenting the drying process from beginning to end.

Have Water Damage?
Call Today 573-756-5191

Every water damage event is a little different, and requires a unique solution, but the general process stays the same. 

Step 1 - Emergency Contact

When you call, our representative will guide you through several questions that will help the SERVPRO Franchise Professional respond to your water emergency more quickly and efficiently. This initial contact is an important part of a fast, effective restoration.

Step 2 - Inspection and Water Damage Assessment

They carefully inspect your property’s water damage, determining the type of water damage and the areas affected. This is a crucial step to creating an effective plan of action that will result in a successful restoration.

Step 3 - Water Removal / Water Extraction

Typically, hundreds or thousands of gallons of water are removed using our powerful pumps and vacuums during the water removal process. The SERVPRO Professionals start this process as soon as possible to minimize further damage and to help prevent mold growth.

Step 4 - Drying and Dehumidification

After the bulk of the water has been removed, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals use specialized equipment to target the water that’s harder to access. They use less intrusive, scientific drying methods to draw the remaining water and moisture from your property with air movers and dehumidifiers.

Step 5 - Cleaning and Sanitizing

Water damage also affects your belongings, like furniture, clothing, and personal items. SERVPRO Professionals can clean restorable items using a number of specialized cleaning techniques. They also sanitize with antimicrobial treatments and remove odors using industrial air scrubbers and fogging equipment.

Step 6 - Restoration

The last step is restoring your home or business back to its pre-water damage condition. The restoration step can be relatively minor, such as replacing a few drywall panels, or could include major reconstruction, such as rebuilding entire rooms of a home or business.

Call us for all your water damage needs!

8/6/2018 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help!

Call Today! 573-756-5191

SERVPRO of Farmington is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you area dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Farmington has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration-in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Sump Pump: Water Damage

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

Basement Sump Pump

If you've explored other ways of keeping your basement dry — examining the grading around your home and repairing any noticeable leaks or broken pipes — and are still having trouble, it might be time to consider a sump pump.

Remember, sump pumps don't prevent water from accumulating, but they can go a long way in controlling water in your basement. Either way, your possessions stay dry, and that's the point.

Many homes have sump pits built right into the basement floor. If this is the case, all you'll need is the pump itself. If your home is not equipped with a sump pit, a drain expert or contractor should be able to tell you if it's possible to retrofit your basement.

Types of sump pumps

There are three types of pumps used in basements or crawl spaces:

  • Pedestal Sump Pump: Also referred to as a "column type" or "upright" sump pump, the pedestal sump pump has an open motor that is supported on top of a column attached to the pump casing. When installed, the motor sits outside the sump and above the basement floor. The motor is not designed to be submerged in water.
  • Submersible Sump Pump: This pump uses a watertight motor designed to be immersed in water, and will typically kick into action when it senses that it's become submerged. The motor is coupled directly to the pump casing and is designed to be completely hidden within the sump.
  • Water-Powered Sump Pump: Water-powered sump pumps are generally much less powerful than pedestal or submersible pumps, but may have some advantage: They run on city water pressure instead of electrical power. However, because they require significant water pressure to function efficiently, they often can't be used if your city water pressure is low or limited, or if your house gets its water from a private well.

A working system

So what does a functioning sump pump system look like? There are usually three key pieces:

  • A Primary Pump
  • An Emergency Backup Pump (Battery- or Water-Powered)
  • An Emergency Backup Pump Alarm

Because homes sometimes lose power during thunderstorms — just when an operational sump pump is critical — many pumping systems employ a backup pump. Emergency battery backup pumps work when the power goes out, when the primary pump does not remove the water fast enough, or if the primary pump fails.

In this setup, primary pumps are powered with electricity, and backup pumps are battery- or water-powered. Using two pumps instead of one makes it unlikely that both pumps will malfunction at the same time. And with the alarm system, you'll be able to tell when the primary pump has failed and the backup pump has to be used.

Is a sump pump right for you?

Installing a new sump pump system — especially if your basement doesn't already have a built-in sump pit - is an extensive, complex job. Make sure you consult with a plumbing expert.

And to find out more about particular pumps for your basement, or to check if a certain pump is certified, consult the Sump & Sewage Pump Manufacturers Association.

Feel free to give the experts a call! Call the #1 trusted cleaning and restoration company in the area! Call SERVPRO of Farmington today! (573) 756-5191

Choose SERVPRO of Farmington to Protect Your Home

1/31/2018 (Permalink)

Mike, our technician, extracting water from a basement family room.

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have questions or need help to ensure your property, contact SERVPRO of Farmington at 573-756-5191. 

You have so much invested in your home! Choose SERVPRO of Farmington to protect your most valuable asset!

Your home is a reflection of you and makes an impression on all those who enter it. You invest your time, energy, and hard-earned resources to maintain, protect and increase the value of your home. When you need work done on your home, you should expect the very best service at a fair price. That's where SERVPRO of Farmington shines.

SERVPRO Services Water Damage

8/22/2017 (Permalink)

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help!

Call Today! 573-756-5191

SERVPRO of Farmington is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you area dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Farmington has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration-in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

Water Damage 101

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

Call us today for all your water damage needs. 573-756-5191

Water Damage Restoration Explained

The single most enduring destructive factor in the indoor environment is water. The quality of the structures and other personal properties is affected by excess water in home or flooding. The condition becomes worse when the water cleanup services are not offered on time. Flood damage can be addressed by putting up an efficient water mitigation process on time. Water cleanup and restoration processes have been found to produce amazing results irrespective of the severity of the damage. Most water damage restoration companies use proven methods. When you experience water in home or business, here are the basic steps that should be followed in water damage restoration.

Assessment of the damage

After allowing a company to start mitigation and restoration of water in home or business, the first thing to do is the assessment of the damage. A professional water damage technician is the one who should carry out the evaluation of the flood damage. The technician determines the necessary steps that should be taken. The steps depend on the amount of water in business or home, and the affected things. Restoration begins only after this stage.

Identification of the source of water

The next step is establishing where the water is coming from. Water come from a leaking roof, leaking pipes, crawl spaces, household appliances, air conditioners, overflowing sinks, and basements among others. The magnitude of water and flood damage depends on several factors among them the source of water. For instance, torrential rainfall may bring a lot of water in a house and cause significant damages in a home. If the source of water is a pipe, it should be blocked or shut off. If it is an appliance, it can be turned off and the water drained. If the water is coming from floods, the window or door allowing it should be closed or sealed. This is done to ensure the problem does not recur.

Removal of water

After ensuring that no other water is entering into a building, the next mitigation process is water removal. The necessary tools should be used in this process. Some of the tools used for water cleanup are pumps, fans, and vacuums. Remove the visible water in business or homes. The next step is removing invincible water in the fabrics and hidden places. Water cleanup is critical in controlling the spread of moisture. The carpets and ceiling may be removed if they are wet. There are specialized tools used to minimize damage. Reputable companies should have these tools.

Drying

After the removal of water in business or home, drying follows. This process involves the use of specialized tools such as air movers and dehumidifiers. Heaters are used to produce dry air and enhance the circulation of air in the building and evaporation of water from wet objects. Drying takes between 3 to 5 days. This stage is critical in preventing the growth of mold in the building in the future.

Reexamination

Technicians carry out another inspection to ensure that any source of water or a pocket of moisture is under control. This stage is critical in preventing the occurrence of any water related damage in the future.

Reconstruction

After the mitigation and drying, the replacement and repair of damaged building materials should follow. This process is done with the aim of restoring the building to its initial condition before the flood damage.

It is important to note that the time taken to remove water in home or business and drying time depends on the extent of the damage and time taken to reach the drying standard required. You should contact a water damage restoration company to remove water in business or house as soon as you notice flooding. And that's where we come in!

Call us today! 573-756-5191

Handling a Water Damage

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

Call us for all your water damage restoration needs. 573-756-5191.

How to Handle a Water Damage Incident

Flood damage or water damage from other sources is serious business. Water in a business or water in a home that is left standing can not only cause decay and leave foul smelling odors and mold, but it can even leave the property structurally unsound, potentially causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses.

Luckily, there are professionals who are expert in water damage restoration and who can almost always effectively combat water damage, restoring the property to its former condition, 100 percent. However, it's important the people know that this is a job that entails doing some difficult work with highly sophisticated equipment in a set order. People without the equipment, experience or extensive knowledge necessary who attempt mitigation of water damage and restoration of the property on their own often end up with disastrous consequences, including the total loss of the property.

The five step flood damage restoration process:


Water in the home or water in the business can very quickly lead to irreversible damage, including structural compromise that can require tearing down and rebuilding entire sections of the structure. But with a professional restoration and mitigation firm, there is an established, five-step process that can ensure an almost guaranteed complete restoration of the property, in all but the most extreme natural disasters.

Emergency call, inspection and damage assessment


The first step is to seek help. Most professional restoration firms have 24/7, on call staff who can immediately dispatch a team to the site of the flood damage. Using sophisticated equipment, including infrared detectors and hygrometers, specialists can assess the extent to which the water has seeped into areas beyond view, immediately ordering in specialized equipment, such as industrial floor drying equipment, that can begin drying any affected areas of the flooring or structural components of the home or business.

Water extraction


The first task with water in the home or water in the business will be to completely remove any standing water from the floor or basement. This can be accomplished with amazing speed, using industrial vacuum equipment and submersible pumps. Again, attempting to remove standing water should never be undertaken by non-professionals. There are serious hazards in doing so and the equipment is likely to be insufficient and subject to failure.

Drying and dehumidifying


Once the standing water in the home or water in the business has been removed, the water cleanup process can move forward. The next step is drying. While it may sound simple, it's far from it. Different materials dry at vastly different rates. Some out-of-sight structural components may absorb water and retain it for months or years. This water must be removed. Failure to do so will certainly result in rotting and structural compromise. Professional firms have both high-power, specialized drying equipment as well as cutting-edge capabilities to dehumidify large spaces, dropping the humidity to almost zero.

The water cleanup company will also remove all furniture, books, artwork and other valuable items that may need to be dried or could be vulnerable to standing water. Drying is one of the most important parts of the water cleanup and damage mitigation process.

Cleaning and sanitizing


When flood damage occurs, part of the water cleanup process is categorizing the water. The damage mitigation team will either classify the water as clean, grey or black. Clean water may not involve much in the way of cleaning. However, grey and black water will involve extensive cleaning of movable items as well as fixed surfaces. The team will also sanitize the entire affected site, ensuring that no harmful organisms are allowed to fester.


Finally, the damage control team will touch up the affected area, restoring it and everything it contains back to exactly as it was before the flood event. In all but the most extreme cases, the property will be completely restored to its previous condition, with a prompt call to a competent water damage company. Call us today 573-756-5191.

Water Intrusion in One Room Can Mean Water Damage is Other Rooms

7/25/2017 (Permalink)

This was a water damage located in Desloge, MO. A leak in the bathroom cause severe damage throughout the finished basement.

What you see-

It starts out as innocent bath time playfulness, an accidental spill or small leak. Suddenly, water is on the floor, moving towards walls, crevices, and other access points to reach the lowest level of your home. You may feel panic, shock or devastation. You reach for the towels, wet vac, mops and fans to clean up the water. The surface water is now dry and the problem is solved. Or, is it? What happened to the water that traveled into the floor, subfloors and walls? Was all the moisture caused by the incident removed? Water intrusion in a home can linger leaving subtle, yet lasting effects if not completely removed from the structure. Homeowners can remove standing water with appropriate precautions to help prevent further damage. But, how do you remove water and moisture in flooring and walls? You are not alone. SERVPRO of Farmington is trained in the cleanup and care of your home following a water intrusion. Whether the intrusion occurred from a small incident or a major water event, removing excess moisture can prevent more serious damage such as microbial growth. So, before you risk doing further damage by attempting to clean up the water yourself, call the cleanup and restoration professionals at 573-756-5191.

What you don't see-

Removing surface water can help prevent more extensive damage. However, water intrusions invade floors, ceilings and walls to find the lowest point in your home. Standing water from an overflowing bathtub or other water incident will search for pin hole crevices and cracks in your floors and walls looking for a way to travel downward. Surfaces such as wood, drywall and carpet pull water away from plain sight and into the interiors of your home. Should a water incident occur in your home, remove excess water with mopping or blotting, remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying and place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs. These tips may prevent further damage to your home and belongings. 

Sump Pumps 101

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

If you've explored other ways of keeping your basement dry — examining the grading around your home and repairing any noticeable leaks or broken pipes — and are still having trouble, it might be time to consider a sump pump.

Remember, sump pumps don't prevent water from accumulating, but they can go a long way in controlling water in your basement. Either way, your possessions stay dry, and that's the point.

Many homes have sump pits built right into the basement floor. If this is the case, all you'll need is the pump itself. If your home is not equipped with a sump pit, a drain expert or contractor should be able to tell you if it's possible to retrofit your basement.

Types of sump pumps

There are three types of pumps used in basements or crawl spaces:

  • Pedestal Sump Pump: Also referred to as a "column type" or "upright" sump pump, the pedestal sump pump has an open motor that is supported on top of a column attached to the pump casing. When installed, the motor sits outside the sump and above the basement floor. The motor is not designed to be submerged in water.
  • Submersible Sump Pump: This pump uses a watertight motor designed to be immersed in water, and will typically kick into action when it senses that it's become submerged. The motor is coupled directly to the pump casing and is designed to be completely hidden within the sump.
  • Water-Powered Sump Pump: Water-powered sump pumps are generally much less powerful than pedestal or submersible pumps, but may have some advantage: They run on city water pressure instead of electrical power. However, because they require significant water pressure to function efficiently, they often can't be used if your city water pressure is low or limited, or if your house gets its water from a private well.

A working system

So what does a functioning sump pump system look like? There are usually three key pieces:

  • A Primary Pump
  • An Emergency Backup Pump (Battery- or Water-Powered)
  • An Emergency Backup Pump Alarm

Because homes sometimes lose power during thunderstorms — just when an operational sump pump is critical — many pumping systems employ a backup pump. Emergency battery backup pumps work when the power goes out, when the primary pump does not remove the water fast enough, or if the primary pump fails.

In this setup, primary pumps are powered with electricity, and backup pumps are battery- or water-powered. Using two pumps instead of one makes it unlikely that both pumps will malfunction at the same time. And with the alarm system, you'll be able to tell when the primary pump has failed and the backup pump has to be used.

Is a sump pump right for you?

Installing a new sump pump system — especially if your basement doesn't already have a built-in sump pit - is an extensive, complex job. Make sure you consult with a plumbing expert.

And to find out more about particular pumps for your basement, or to check if a certain pump is certified, consult the Sump & Sewage Pump Manufacturers Association.

Source: https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/residence/sump-pump-basics?cmpid=SimpleInsights:Facebook:Content:17-1526298&https%3A%2F%2Fad.doubleclick.net%2Fddm%2Fclk%2F322740317%3B152524933%3By&utm_source=m.facebook.com&utm_medium=referral

When Water Damages Occur, The Wrong Response Can Cost You Plenty.

2/6/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage located in Farmington, MO. This room had standing water that was extracted shortly after this photo was taken.

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have questions or need help to ensure your property, contact SERVPRO of Farmington at 573-756-5191. 

You have so much invested in your home! Choose SERVPRO of Farmington to protect your most valuable asset!

Your home is a reflection of you and makes an impression on all those who enter it. You invest your time, energy, and hard-earned resources to maintain, protect and increase the value of your home. When you need work done on your home, you should expect the very best service at a fair price. That's where SERVPRO of Farmington shines.

SERVPRO of Farmington 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

8/22/2016 (Permalink)

A water main break caused this basement in Farmington, MO to flood. This before picture shows the mess left behind after all the water had receded.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help!

Call Today! 573-756-5191

SERVPRO of Farmington is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you area dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Farmington has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration-in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?