Protect And Prepare Your Scottsdale Home For Flooding

6/15/2022 (Permalink)

Monsoon season is officially here!

According to the NOAA.gov (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the Southwestern region of the United States’ monsoon season officially begins today, June 15^th through September 30^th. Monsoon storms typically don’t arrive until late June or early July, but these storms are always welcomed as Scottsdale residents face scorching temperatures during the hot summer months. As Scottsdale residents anxiously await for monsoon storms to arrive, here are some tips on what to do to protect your home from flooding.

Protect Your Home

• Inspect your home’s drainage system to ensure that it’s clean and clear of any blockages and that it is working properly.
• If your property is prone to flooding, have some sandbags on hand just in case as it can serve as a flood barrier.
• Maintain the landscaping in your yard so that the water flows away from your home and doesn’t pool in your yard.
• If you have a drywell in your home, be sure to inspect it and make sure it is clean and clear of any clogs.
• Review your home’s insurance policy and make sure you have flood insurance, especially if you are in an area that is prone to flooding.

Toilet Overflowing and Clog Prevention

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

If your toilet is overflowing, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call to handle the cleanup.

Plumbing accidents such as an overflowing toilet can lead to panic thinking of the damage, cleanup, and germs and bacteria affecting your home or business. Luckily, SERVPRO of Scottsdale has experience in dealing with these mishaps and can help ensure your damage is mitigated according to industry standards. Here are some tips to avoid an overflowing toilet from occurring on your property.

Signage

If you are a business owner, you need to make sure that proper signage is posted in the bathroom that indicates what items are acceptable to flush.

Trash Cans

Make sure that there are trash cans and waste bins available for non-flushable items such as sanitary napkins.

Thinner Toilet Paper

Using thinner toilet paper breaks down easier and prevents toilets from clogging.

Toilet Seat Safety Locks

If you have smaller children around, make sure that you have a child safety toilet lock in place so that smaller items like toys don’t cause a clog.

Water Damage Accidents Can Happen

3/14/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage emergencies can happen at any time. Don't stress, call SERVPRO!

Experiencing Water Damage? Let Us Help!

No matter how put together your life may be, it’s easy to get thrown off course when it comes to daily routines in your home. It’s okay to not have it together all the time. Here at SERVPRO of Scottsdale, we understand that accidents can happen that can lead to emergencies occurring in your home. We have seen our fair share of slips up that have happened which have led to water damage in homes and businesses and we want you to know it’s okay, we are here to take care of the clean up and restoration of your property.

Whether you’ve accidentally left the water running in your kitchen sink or your child has clogged the toilet with their toys and caused it to overflow, we will come to handle the cleanup so you don’t have to. Give our office a call at 480-998-7989 to begin the process of getting your property back

Water Damage In New Facility

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Scottsdale for your water damage emergencies.

Our SERVPRO of Scottsdale technicians have had quite a busy time on their hands, especially this week with a new commercial job we received that is experiencing extensive water damage in their brand new facility.

A new commercial facility that has not opened their doors yet, had to delay their grand opening due to a booster pump that went out in their building. A booster pump helps to move water throughout a building and deliver it at a desired pressure. As a result, 15-20 rooms on the first floor were affected. SERVPRO of Scottsdale was contacted to handle the cleanup and restoration which requires 150 air movers to dry out the moisture. 

If your commercial property is dealing with water damage in your facility, give our office a call. We'll respond to your emergency and get you back up and running "Like it never even happened."

Prevent Water Damage From Your Washing Machine

10/29/2021 (Permalink)

If you're facing water damage from your washing machine, give us a call at 480-998-7989.

Gone are the days of using washboards and old-fashioned machinery that required physical work on your part. Washing machines are a convenient modern amenity that allow us tackle loads of laundry with ease. Majority of households today are furnished with a washing machine because they make our lives so much easier then having to go out to a nearby laundromat. Over time, your washing machine can have some wear and tear and ultimately lead to water damage in your home. SERVPRO of Scottsdale has dealt with many homes dealing with this exact scenario so we put together some simple tips.

• Only use the recommended amount of detergent. Avoid using too much as this can cause build-up to occur in the washing machine’s overflow tube.
• Do not overload the washing machine. Putting too much in causes the washing machine to shake and can loosen the hoses in the back.
• Inspect the supply line in the back for wear and tear.
• It is recommended to replace the supply hose every 5 years to ensure that it continues to run smoothly. Even if there is no noticeable damage, you don’t know what is happening on the inside so replacing it every 5 years keeps it running efficiently.

If you find yourself dealing with water damage from your washing machine, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We will handle the cleanup and restore your property “Like it never even happened.”

Preparing An Emergency Kit

9/17/2021 (Permalink)

Protect your family by preparing for disasters and emergencies.

As we’ve stated in our blog, “National Preparedness Month 2021,” September is National Preparedness Month which is to raise awareness and prepare you for emergencies and disasters. SERVPRO of Scottsdale wanted to provide you with some information on how to prepare an emergency kit for serious weather situations in Scottsdale.

We’ve seen in previous weeks intense monsoon storms that brought heavy rains, high winds and dust storms. If you or your family find yourself in an emergency weather situation, it’s essential to have a basic emergency supply kit readily available for when you need it. Here’s are some items to include in your kit.

• (Be sure to have at least 1 gallon for every person in your household.)
• Non-perishable food items
• Flashlights
• Radio
• First aid kit
• Batteries
• Power banks to charge your phones
• Emergency whistle
• Garbage bags
• Moist towelettes for personal use
• Map

The items listed above are what is recommended but  you can always add more to tailor to your own family’s personal needs.

Protect Your Home From Flooding

6/7/2021 (Permalink)

Monsoon season is almost here. Protect your home from a potential flood today.

Monsoon season is just around the corner which makes it an optimal time to start preparing your home or business for any possible flooding that may occur from heavy rains that come hand in hand with monsoon storms. SERVPRO of Scottsdale wants you to be prepared to avoid any heavy water damage to your property. Here are some tips to prevent potential flooding issues.

• Clean out roof drains to prevent water from collecting on the roof.
• Clean out drywells on your property so water has a safe place to collect.
• Examine and maintain the landscaping around your home to make sure water runs away from your home.
• If you are located in a lower elevation area where flooding is known to happen, you can prepare by having bags of sand available to serve as a flood barrier.
• Lastly, review your home's insurance policy and make sure you have flood insurance just in case. 

If your home or business is dealing with water damage from monsoon storms, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at 480-998-7989. We are always here to help!

The Importance of Gutter Systems During Monsoons

5/14/2021 (Permalink)

Make sure to clean and maintain your gutters to prevent water damage in and around your home.

Gutter Systems Are Important

Rain gutters serve an extremely useful purpose to your home or business. When a rainstorm hits, it helps to protect and steer water away from your home and foundation. That is why it is important to take care of your gutter system and clean it regularly to prevent clogs from occurring.

Clean and Maintain

During Scottsdale's monsoon season, a lot of debris can fly around during the high winds that take place during monsoons and can clog up your rain gutters. When your rain gutters are full of debris, the rainwater can start to back up and not drain properly. This can lead to water pooling on your roof and causing damage such as possible rot and deterioration, mold growth, as well as damaged shingles. Downspouts play an important role in the gutter system as they allow the water from the roof gutters to safely drain out and a safe distance away from your home and its foundation.

It’s important to be aware of the possible damages that could take place if you don’t have a proper gutter system in place that is not cleaned and maintained ahead of monsoon season here in the Valley. If you find that your home is dealing with water damage from a gutter system that has caused water damage to your roof or other areas of your home, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call.

Shower Left On Causes Water Damage

2/24/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage accidents in your home can happen. If you're dealing with this, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at 480-998-7989.

People across Phoenix, as well as across the country and world, are experiencing all the changes that have taken place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We find ourselves spending majority of our time at home, for instance; working from home, tending to remote learning for school aged children, and those that choose to social distance in general. Because of this, many are dealing with a busy and hectic home life that as a result, we can simply forget to do something so minor that it can cause damage to our home and disrupt our daily schedules.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale recently worked with a customer that had accidentally left the water running while cleaning the shower. The customer got sidetracked while cleaning their shower that they then went on to mopping their floors. The overflowing water from the shower ran throughout the unit and caused damage to the base laminate floor. The water then seeped into the rental unit below. This is an issue that we see take place in properties with multiple floors. The damage is not always immediately noticed which was the case with the neighbor living below our customer.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale responded by providing water dryout and mitigation services. We understand that accidents can happen. We are here and ready to help you when it comes to water damage you are dealing with in your home.

Please feel free to call our office at 480-998-7989 for more information on water damage repair and restoration.  

Experiencing water damage? SERVPRO of Scottsdale can help!

1/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Scottsdale is available 24/7 for water damage emergencies in your home or business!

Can you imagine coming home from a long day at work, kicking off your shoes, and getting ready to relax? But once you walk into your bedroom, you discover that your ceiling is heavily damaged and water is leaking from the ceiling. In a frenzy, you panic and call the front office of your apartment building. This is when they discover that a plumbing issue has occurred upstairs.

Available 24/7 For Water Damage Emergencies

We have seen this type of stressful scenario play out amongst many Scottsdale residents which is why SERVPRO of Scottsdale is here and ready to respond 24/7 to your water damage emergencies. 

Give us a call at 480-998-7989. Our friendly office staff will guide you in what the next steps are so our experienced SERVPRO technicians can begin the cleanup and dryout/mitigation process.  

How To Prevent and Unclog Kitchen Drains

10/8/2020 (Permalink)

Run cold water when breaking up food and then let it continue for a full minute once the disposal has been shut off

Kitchen Drain Clogged? What To Do?

Any kitchen sink is prone to becoming clogged. If this happens to yours, it’s possible the issue can be remedied through the use of a plumber’s snake.

Avoiding Clogs
Before you need to purchase an unclogging tool, however, realize that blockages can be stopped from occurring by:

• Properly handling your garbage disposal. Run cold water when breaking up food and then let it continue for a full minute once the disposal has been shut off.
  
• Using a sink strainer. Doing this stops problematic debris from entering the drainpipe.
  
• Never dumping inappropriate materials down your drain. Any type of building material is particularly discouraged.
  
  

Heeding these warnings will lessen the odds of a clogged sink negatively impacting daily life. Should one happen anyway, try alleviating the matter by following the below procedure.

Snaking Clogs
Purchase a plumber’s snake from your local hardware store, and insert the device into the drain. Then turn the drum handle. This action will begin moving the snake down your pipe. When you encounter resistance, you have reached the bend. Get past this by applying added pressure. Rent an electrical drain auger if you fear this potential difficulty.
Once you reach the blockage, rotate the snake so it begins chopping up the offending matter. Twisting should become easier if the instrument does its job correctly. Next, remove the snake. The problematic refuse may come out attached or it may run down the drain. Lastly, blast water at the highest pressure possible for several minutes to assure the complication has totally disappeared.
In instances where off-the-shelf remedies fail, hire a residential water restoration service to dismantle your sink and extricate the mass without causing a pipe break or something possibly worse.
Should a clogged pipe afflict you while preparing a meal in Rio Verde, AZ, attempt to end the problem on your own. If the concept of handling such a task makes you uncomfortable, employ a professional who can competently complete the job.

Why You Should Change Your Polybutylene Pipes

9/3/2020 (Permalink)

If your business is relying on polybutylene pipes, you should have them replaced as soon as possible

Why You Should Change Your Polybutylene Pipes

Sometimes, excitement over new technologies and materials can overwhelm attempts to understand the actual qualities of these technologies or materials. This has certainly been true in the case of polybutylene piping. Early enthusiasm over easy installation and relatively inexpensive cost resulted in its installation in many thousands of homes and businesses before serious flaws became apparent.

1. Your Piping is Probably Out of Date
If your piping was installed a long time ago, your chances of experiencing a catastrophic failure are increasing as time goes on. Every type of piping experiences normal erosion that wears away at pipes from the inside. When materials present in water react chemically with lining in your plumbing, it becomes more likely that pipes will crack or fail, causing damage where a leak has occurred. It is always advisable to install new plumbing if you have any concerns about the age of your existing water infrastructure.

2. They Are Prone to Chemical Corrosion
Because Polybutylene pipes are weakened by chlorine and other common water treatment chemicals, they are especially prone to failure only a short time after installation. Although these were likely installed between the 1970s and 1990s, they should always be replaced, regardless of how long ago they were installed.

3. Water Damage Can Cost You
Damage to your business caused by a leak or pipe burst is best avoided through prevention. If your space has been inundated with water, surfaces may have suffered structural damage that leave them prone to the development of mold. While it is possible to clean up this type of damage on your own, contacting a professional water remediation service will give your property the best chance of being restored to normal.
If your North Scottsdale, AZ, business is relying on polybutylene pipes to transport water, you should have them replaced as soon as possible. Other types of plumbing also have drawbacks, so it is important that you understand when your commercial property's system was installed, as well as what materials were used.

Understand the Different Categories of Water

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

Water Categories

Below are The Three Categories of Water

Any kind of water damage in you Scottsdale, AZ, requires immediate attention. If the issue isn’t properly addressed and corrected, the damage can spread to other areas of the home. When excess water is detected, the initial response is often to jump in and begin the cleanup. Although cleanup needs to happen fast, understanding the type of water you are facing is an important safety factor to consider. Depending on the cause, it may be contaminated water that is harmful if not approached with caution and proper safety gear. Below are the three categories of water.

1. Clean Water
Although no water damage would be preferred, category 1 is the best kind to have. Considered clean water, it is often caused by issues such as a broken supply line to sinks, bathtubs, and appliances. It is considered clean because it contains no sewage, chemicals, or toxins, which means it requires no additional safety considerations. If it has sat for too long, it can evolve into the second category.

2. Grey Water
Category 2 is considered contaminated water. Known as greywater, it contains minimal amounts of microorganisms and chemicals that could potentially be harmful to humans and animals if ingested. Sources of this type may include washing machines, toilets without waste, and bathtubs. Similar to the first category, if not addressed within 48 hours, it may turn into a more hazardous water problem.

3. Black Water
Categorized as the most harmful type of water, black water often contains sewage, microorganisms, pathogens, and other contaminants. Once this enters the home, it can damage much more than the surrounding area. Many belongings that come in contact with black water may have to be thrown away. Cleaning up black water requires numerous safety precautions. It can also stay hidden, so it is best to contact a water remediation and restoration expert to properly handle the mess.
Before taking steps to start the water damage cleanup process, ensure you know what you are dealing with. Contaminated water can be harmful to humans and pets, so it’s best left to the experts for cleanup.

Mitigating Loss After a Significant Toilet Flood

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Toilet flooding in North Scottsdale, AZ

Mitigating Loss After a Significant Toilet Flood

One of the most common problems stemming from sewer damage in commercial plumbing is a flooded toilet. Unfortunately, when you don't catch an overflowing toilet immediately, it can flood multiple floors, causing significant property loss. Most water damage experts in North Scottsdale, AZ, will work in the following order to restore the building.

• Assess flooring
• Remove ceiling tiles
• Discard wet materials
• Clean and disinfect
• Repair damage
  

Assess Flooring
Flooring is often the most significant concern for property owners because of the expense to replace it. Depending on the material and the time spent submerged, salvaging may be possible. However, with most laminates or hardwoods, you will need to replace the damaged section.

Remove Ceiling Tiles
Many commercial facilities have drop ceilings with tiles made of gypsum. Unfortunately, gypsum stains easily, meaning you may have to replace several tiles. However, if the leak is small, you may get away with only replacing a single tile, rather than an entire section.

Discard Wet Materials
Depending on the structural elements between floors in your building, you may have insulation and ductwork to deal with. If the water damage is significant, you will probably need to replace these materials. If the water is contaminated from sewer damage, replace any contaminated materials.

Clean and Disinfect
A mitigation company will follow any cleanout with a cleanup. During this process, the company will disinfect every contaminated surface, reducing and eliminating the spread and threat of bacteria before moving onto the restoration of the property.

Repair Damage
Finally, you and the restoration crew, working in tandem with a sewage company, can repair your building. Before the restoration company finishes your project, they will ensure everything is structurally sound and in working order.
Sewer damage resulting in a significant toilet flood can lead to costly repairs. If you are in the midst of such a disaster, consider hiring a restoration and mitigation service.

My Basement’s Flooded! What Now?

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

A basement flood can result in large cleanup and restoration bills

Ways To Get Your Home Back To Pre-Loss Condition

Discovering a basement flood at your Scottsdale, AZ, home can be an anxiety-provoking experience. Where do you even start the cleanup process? Take these steps for the easiest way to get your home back to its preloss condition:

1. Practice Caution

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

2. Investigate for Water Source

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

3. Dry Affected Area

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

4. Discard Unsalvageable Materials

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

5. Contact Professionals

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

When You Need To Call Restoration Experts

1/29/2020 (Permalink)

Water restoration cleanup in Rio Verde, AZ

When You Need To Call Restoration Experts

You may think that you can handle a pipe burst cleanup yourself. However, even a small flood can cause a lot of damage, especially if your belongings are not dried properly. That is why you should enlist the assistance of a water restoration company.
Water restoration businesses don’t just dry wet items in your Rio Verde, AZ, building. Professionals from these establishments can also remove sewage or mold. Experts can even find and address larger issues within the property before they cause more severe damage.
Cleanup specialists additionally have the proper training and equipment to do the job safely. If you attempt to restore the property on your own, you could put yourself, your employees and your building at risk for further harm. Instead, contact professionals when you see potential signs of water problems, including:

• Floor damage
  
• Mold
  
• Wall damage
  
  

Damage Prevention

Even if you don’t have of these problems yet, you can still use pipe burst cleanup specialists to prevent possible damage. These experts will be able to find warning signs such as corrosion or condensation on the pipes. The professionals can then address the situation before it causes a major incident.

Emergencies

When you see a broken pipe or another water disaster, you need to call the professionals immediately. If you wait too long, mold will start to grow. This could cause even more damage and cost more money to fix.
A sewer cleanup company can help if there is a major toilet overflow or a septic problem. You should not attempt to fix these potentially dangerous situations yourself. Instead, your priority should be getting yourself and your employees out of the building. The same is true when there is obvious mold growth or when electrical wires may be exposed to the water.
Any major pipe burst cleanup should be handled by professionals. They can keep you and your employees safe while restoring wet items and preventing further damage.

What To Do About Basement Floods

12/12/2019 (Permalink)

Flooded basement in Scottsdale, AZ

A basement flood is a major inconvenience. Knowing some common causes of flooded basements can help you prevent this from happening to your Scottsdale,AZ, home.

Why Basements Flood

There are many reasons you may find water in your basement. The following are some of the most common:

• Insufficient sealing
  
• Incorrectly installed downspouts
  
• Poor landscape grading
  
• Leaking water heater
  
• Leaking pipes
  
  

Basements should be properly sealed to keep out moisture. Downspouts should be placed at least five feet from the exterior basement wall and should be directed away from the home. Additionally, the yard should slope downward from the house so that water can flow away. These precautions should prevent water from entering your basement from outdoors. However, water from indoor sources poses just as much risk. Make sure to repair any indoor leaks as soon as possible. If you have a sump pump, perform routine maintenance on it so that it can remove any water before it becomes a problem.

How To Clean a Flooded Basement

If you do experience a basement flood, it is important to clean up the area as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth and structural damage. First, remove the standing water using pumps or a specialized vacuum. Then, you will want to remove all soaked items so that you can address them separately. Make sure not to return these items to the basement until they are fully clean and dry. Next, use fans or a dehumidifier to dry out the rest of the moisture. Depending on the level of contamination in the flood water, you may need to sanitize all the surfaces that came into contact with it.
Precautionary measures go a long way toward preventing a basement flood. However, you may still find water damage in your basement. If you feel overwhelmed by the cleanup process, a certified restoration team can help you get your basement back to pre-flood condition quickly and safely.

How To Deal With a Basement Flood

10/15/2019 (Permalink)

Basement flood in Scottsdale,AZ

Here Are Some Important Steps To Take When Dealing With a Flooded Basement

When your Scottsdale,AZ, basement floods, whether it’s unfinished or a souped-up man cave, panic will increase as the water rises. There are a number of factors that can cause a basement flood, but water is water, and the resulting damage is the same. Here are some important steps to take when dealing with a flooded basement:

1. Turn Off Electricity

First and foremost, as soon as you can safely navigate to the breaker box, shut off the electricity to the basement. Appliances and exposed wires may be in or near the water, and there’s a good chance an electric current is traveling through the standing water. It could be deadly to step in it before the power is turned off. If you need help, contact an electrician or the electric company.

2. Stop the Source of the Flood

If the flood is plumbing-related, it’s important to turn off the water at the source or at your home’s main valve. If rainwater is coming into the house and there’s no sign of it stopping soon, you may want to sandbag, use flood bags or employ other flood barriers. Once the flood stops, you can take more proactive actions.

3. Remove the Water

A wet/dry vacuum comes in handy when dealing with standing water in a basement flood, especially if debris is floating. It can quickly and safely remove the standing water.

4. Remove Affected Material

Once as much water as possible has been eliminated, it’s time to start removing waterlogged items. Dispose of flooded carpet and padding. Other porous items, such as sofas and wooden furniture, will need drying as quickly as possible to save them.

5. Disinfect

Mold can start developing within 24 hours of the introduction of water. It’s important to dry and disinfect the area thoroughly to keep mold and bacteria from growing and spreading.
If your home sustains water damage from a basement flood, be sure to check your insurance coverage to see what’s covered. You can call water damage cleanup experts to restore your basement back to its original state.

Act Quickly to Minimize Damage to Broken Pipes

8/30/2019 (Permalink)

Ceiling damage due to broken pipe in Rio Verde,AZ

What To Do When You Encounter a Broken Pipe

In the event of bursting pipes or even newly discovered leaks, time is of the essence when trying to fix the broken pipe. Here are the most important things to do when encountering a broken pipe to minimize potential water damage to your home in Rio Verde, AZ.

1. Shut Off Water Valves

Whether water is gushing into your living room or a leaky pipe has been barely holding on for weeks, the first thing that you need to do when you see a broken pipe in your home is to shut off the water valve. As a homeowner, you are the most likely person to know where your main water access point is, and quickly turning off the water can prevent further damage and strain on bursting pipes to give you time to make a plan to fix the broken pipe.

2. Move Valuable Items

It takes a very short time for water to seep into everything from antique furniture to precious family photo albums. With the water off, you can limit further damage, but you may find these items already soaked. Do what you can to move items out of standing water if you can do so safely. Whatever you do, do not enter flooded areas that might have electric currents running through them.

3. Contact a Professional

When it comes to your home’s maintenance, you might be used to patching things up yourself, but if you really want to fix a broken pipe the right way, you need to contact a professional. Companies specializing in water damage repair and restoration are specially trained to check for hidden damage to the structure of your home due to bursting pipes. Calling cleanup services as quickly as possible can prevent mold and secondary damage from occurring, and you won’t regret hiring qualified professionals to restore damaged areas and belongings to make it seem “Like it never even happened.” and prevent further headaches down the road.

What Homeowners Should Know About Broken Pipes

6/13/2019 (Permalink)

Rusted pipes can cause problems in your property

A burst pipe can cause homes in Mcdowell Mountain, AZ, to flood in a short period of time. Dealing with the effects of a broken pipe can be overwhelming but learning about broken pipes before an issue occurs can be helpful.

What Causes Pipe Issues?

There are a variety of issues that can plague your home’s pipes. Common causes of pipe problems include:

• Rusted or old pipes
  
• Cold temperatures
  
• Improperly installed pipes
  
• A sudden increase in your pipes’ water pressure
  

What Are Common Types of Damage and How Is It Resolved? 

A burst pipe can result in various types of damage in your home. Mold growth is a common issue in homes that have had pipe breaks. Additionally, building materials often deteriorate after a pipe break, and laminate surfaces, drywall and subfloors may need to be replaced. It’s often helpful for homeowners to contact flood damage restoration professionals and a plumber after the damage has occurred. A plumber can fix broken pipe and examine other pipes to check for widespread problems. Restoration experts can focus on mitigating the damage that has already occurred and can help to restore furniture, electronics and other items.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Broken and Leaking Pipes?

Though insurance coverage may vary with individual policies, the majority of home insurance policies will generally cover the costs of broken or leaking pipes. Though some policies may not cover the costs of damage if it occurs slowly over time, most insurance companies will cover sudden breaks or leaks. To ensure you are fairly compensated, it can be helpful to provide your insurance company with documentation of the damage.

When a broken pipe results in a flood in your home, you may be unsure what to do next. Knowing the causes of pipe breaks, the damage that could occur as a result of a break and what your insurance will likely cover can offer you peace of mind after a burst pipe in your home.

Cleanup Tips After a Furnace Flood

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO od Scottsdale has the best tools and skills to get the job done right after a furnace flood.

You may not equate furnaces with water damage. After all, furnaces keep you warm when temperatures outside start to drop and have nothing to do with water themselves. However, pipes around your furnace may have a problem, requiring you to take immediate action to correct the issue at your North Scottsdale, AZ, office building. Thankfully, there are some easy ways to mitigate a furnace flood and get things working correctly once more.

How Can This Happen?

Depending on the size of your building, you may have more than one furnace. All of these may be located in areas of your facility where there is an intricate network of pipes and ducts. It’s not uncommon for these and other flaws to present themselves and cause a flooded furnace.

• Old pipes start to corrode and leak water on the floor by the furnace.
• Water leaks into the furnace from underneath due to a weak foundation.
• Water drips onto the furnace from above from water in the ceiling.

Initial Steps

Your first task should be to remove the water around the furnace. You can do this by extracting the water with a shop vac or other machine. Once you remove all of the water, make sure you thoroughly the dry the area. Open windows to get ventilation, and set up some fans nearby to get air moving even more.

Sanitize

You may not know how long the water has been leaking and causing the furnace flood. There could be some concerns with mold and other unwanted substances. Thoroughly clean and sanitize the area around the furnace and the outside of the furnace itself.

Know When To Call the Pros

An extensive furnace flood may require a flood mitigation team to get inside the furnace and examine the extent of the damage. The pros have the best tools and skills to get the job done.

Furnaces and water aren’t a good combination. However, if a flood damages this appliance and the area around it, try the tricks and call a professional.

5 Tips for Mitigating Water Damage

3/18/2019 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of Scottsdale for any mitigation and restoration emergencies

Water damage can become a serious problem in a matter of hours. Here are five tips for mitigating damage as soon as possible.

1. Resolve the Cause

Whether the damage is due to broken pipes or a sewer backup, it is crucial to fix the underlying problem. Otherwise, an issue will continue or reoccur. A homeowner may want to contact a plumber. 

2. Remove Standing Water

Eliminating moisture as quickly as possible is the most important mitigation measure. A homeowner can use a mop or wet vac. A service that specializes in water cleanup may use pumps and other professional equipment. 

3. Clean and Disinfect If Necessary

It may be necessary to clean and sanitize the area depending on the category of water damage. Damage caused by clean Category One water can simply be dried. Clean water left standing as long as 72 hours or water from an appliance leak may be contaminated. Category Two gray water may contain chemicals and microbes and requires disinfection. This is also the case with Category Three black water, which could contain solid waste.

4. Dry the Area

It is also important to promote drying. Restoration specialists may recommend increasing ventilation or using a dehumidifier to draw out residual moisture.

5. Decide How to Handle Wet Contents

Some contents may be candidates for cleaning and restoration while others should be disposed of and replaced. Porous materials exposed to contaminated water can be difficult to clean and may continue to pose a mold risk. Most non-porous items can be restored. Porous materials damaged by clean water can usually be dried and restored. 

These mitigation measures can limit the severity of any type of water damage. Keep in mind that mold may start growing within just 24 to 48 hours. Rather than risk further primary and secondary damage, contact mitigation and restoration specialists in Scottsdale,AZ.

Rely on SERVPRO to Restore Your Water Damaged Property

2/20/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says: A Sump Pump Can Prevent Water Damage in Scottsdale.

Severe weather always seems on the horizon increasing the risk of significant water intrusion into your home. When high winds combine with rain and hail the integrity of your roof, windows or siding may not hold allowing water to leak inside and cause severe damage to the structure and your personal property. SERVPRO has the staff and equipment to remove water from walls, ceilings, floors and more, including cutting-edge technology to restore keepsakes your family would be heartbroken to lose or be forced to replace.

Thunderstorms and downpours respect no area and are a possibility in your neighborhood. If heavy weather damages your house, you must find a company that offers reliable water removal in Scottsdale. Our highly trained technicians will be dispatched to your location quickly after storm water causes destruction as it is essential that moisture is contained and removed from a structure and its contents as soon as possible to avoid long-term problems. Expect our staff to respond with a variety of professional grade tools that will pump and vacuum standing and pooling water up swiftly, preventing further damage to the interior of your home. Our technicians responding to your emergency hold industry standard Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification including education on how to locate hidden leaks that may be otherwise overlooked and proven techniques to dry out the area promptly. Don't let a basement leak ruin your home.

Rely on SERVPRO to Restore Your Water Damaged Property

The technicians at SERVPRO have specialized knowledge to support their assessments of what items can be dried and restored and which may need to be replaced after they complete the post-storm water removal. We carefully consider the damage to the structure and its contents as we make our recommendations and complete the work. Our advice will help you avoid the risk of mold or other lingering effects of the weather damage. The goal of our overall water removal and restoration is always to leave your home and personal possessions “Like it never even happened” after our thorough efforts. We will guide you through every step of the plan to remove the water and repair the damage that resulted including working with your insurance company to ensure every inch of your home is safely restored at a suitable cost to you.

SERVPRO of Scottsdale has both the staff and the equipment to meet your water removal needs after severe storms, or simply a burst pipe, has affected your home. We respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week with just a call to our dispatchers at (480) 998-7989.

What Should You Do To Clean Up After a Toilet Floods?

1/18/2019 (Permalink)

Contact a professional water and sewage company

Nothing can disrupt the calm of your home quite like learning that your toilet is overflowing. It’s not just about the water, although you should be concerned about water damage, but a flooded toilet brings with it a lot of germs and bacteria and can also be a symptom of sewer damage at your home in Scottsdale,AZ . Acting in a timely manner and taking the proper measures can help minimize damage. But just how do you go about cleaning up sewage?

What To Do When You Have a Sewage Leak

• Shut off the water supply if possible
  
• Call for expert help from a sewage company
  
• Clean up the water
  
• Clear the blockage with a plunger or auger
• Clean and disinfect

Sewer damage is responsible for many basement floods in Scottsdale,AZ , annually and can lead to toilets overflowing as well. Hopefully, the toilet was empty and the overflow was caused by a faulty float. More often, you will need to clear a fecal matter or excessive paper blockage from the toilet by using a plunger. If that is not successful, you may need to use an auger - a long snake like device that can wriggle its way though most solid masses, breaking them up and letting them flush clear.

You should call a professional water and sewage company and get help with proper cleaning and drying out your floors and carpets and belongings. They can do a damage assessment and use their commercial strength extraction equipment and fans to remove water and dry things out. Those are the first steps to salvaging your home and it is crucial to make sure they are done properly. They can also help to make sure all contamination has been cleaned or removed from your home, leaving it “like it never even happened.”

Whether from sewer damage or a flooded toilet, a leak or flood is never a pleasant prospect. But with proper help and cleaning, you can rest assured that your home can be restored to safe and condition again.

What to Know About Your Home’s Sewage System

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

Simple clogged pipes can be taking care by yourself

What to Know About Your Home’s Sewage System

When it comes to your home in Scottsdale,AZ, sewage cleaning issues can be some of the most disheartening. Fortunately they can also be fixed with the right tools, enough knowledge, and a little time. Here are some important things to know about your home’s system, including when to call in a professional.

1. Clogs Can Affect More Than Just One Area

A clogged pipe can affect more than just one system in your home. For example a clog between the shower and the toilet can lead to toilet overflow when the shower is turned on. Similarly a downstairs sink may flood when an upstairs drain is used. Just because one drain backs up does not necessarily mean that’s where the clog is.

2. Simple Clogs Can Be Cleared on Your Own

Some sewage cleaning can be done on your own. If you know where the clog is there may be tools you can utilize to take care of the issue yourself. Be sure to read all instructions for any tools or cleaners you may be using. Remember, if basic methods don’t work don’t force it. There’s a chance you could cause additional harm to your pipes. In cases like these it’s time to contact a professional.

3. Larger Problems Need Professional Attention

If basic cleaning methods don’t work it’s time to call in a professional. They have the tools and the knowledge to take care of the tough clogs without breaking your home's sewage system. If a leak is found then a water damage professional can be called to clean up any flooding and repair your home.

When it comes to your residence, you’ll want to make sure any sewage cleaning is done the right way to avoid making any problems worse. In some cases you can fix a minor clog yourself, but if it doesn’t work don’t hesitate to call in a professional for help.

Making a Water Damage Claim: Five Steps

10/8/2018 (Permalink)

After a broken pipe in your Scottsdale,AZ home review your homeowners insurance policy

If a burst pipe has led to flooding and related damage to your home, you are probably interested in the process involved when making an insurance claim. Read on to learn about 5 important steps you need to take to submit the claim and prepare for an insurance adjuster to arrive.

1. Check Your Insurance Policy

One of the first things that you will want to do after a pipe burst in your Scottsdale,AZ, home is to review your homeowners insurance policy. Water damage is covered by some policies and not others.

2. Call the Insurance Company

If you have learned that you do indeed have flood coverage, the next step is to call your agent to make an insurance claim with the company that handles your policy. If all goes well with your report, an appointment will be set to have the damage surveyed.

3. Take Pictures and Record Damage

Once you learn that an adjuster is coming to evaluate the situation, you will need to get working. Take pictures and record any issues that you find, as these will be valuable resources for the claims team to take into account.

4. Fill out Forms

You may have to fill out claim paperwork before the adjuster arrives. Be as thorough as you need to be, and make sure to meet the stated deadline.

5. Make Repairs

It is usually a good idea to make at least some repairs when you can to preserve your property to the best of your ability before the adjuster arrives at your home. Contacting water damage specialists is often your best bet to get the work completed quickly and accurately.

Filing an insurance claim can be difficult after water ruins your valuables and property. The emotional effects of having your home in danger are challenging enough without going through complicated insurance processes. Remembering the steps above will help you to better understand what is involved and how to accurately file a claim so you can figure out a way to move forward.

Prevent Water Damage

9/7/2018 (Permalink)

Imagine that you've just arrived back to your Scottsdale home after a vacation with your family. You're relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to get back to the grind. As soon as you step into your home, you see that the floor is completely soaked. No one wants to see their home turned into a swimming pool. You are now in emergency mode and have no idea what to do. How much will this cost? Who do I call? What do I do? Most insurance policies cover basic water damage claims but still, going through this process can be very time consuming, stressful and exhausting. We put together some tips we thought would be helpful to help you avoid this type of ordeal all together. Here are some helpful tips to prevent water damage in your Scottsdale home.

1. Clean Out Roof Gutters

Make sure to clean your gutters out, especially during monsoon season. You want to avoid blockages as standing water can cause damage to your gutters and roof. Eventually, the water collecting in the gutters can trickle down causing unmanaged overflows which could potentially damage the foundation of your home.

2. Understand Your Water Main

Know where to locate your water main so if a situation arises where you need to shut it off, you know where and how to do so. Also, if you’re planning on leaving your home for an extended period, it would be wise to shut off the water to avoid any leaks that could potentially happen while you’re away.

3. Check Appliances Regularly

Be sure to inspect appliances such as your dishwasher, refrigerator, water heater and toilets to ensure that they are not leaking. If you notice excess moisture accumulating, be sure to have it inspected and fixed right away. Do not put it on hold.

4. Check Your Water Bill

Your home is riddled with water pipes which are hidden in the walls and floors. You may not know there is a leak until it’s too late. What you can do is check your water bill each month and make note of any noticeable changes or increases you’re seeing. If your water bill is high and you haven’t increased your water usage, chances are that there is a water leak somewhere.

5. Use a Drain Snake

You may notice when your shower or sink is clogged and is taking a long time to drain. When this happens, avoid using liquid drain cleaners as the harsh chemicals can eat away at the pipes which, in the long run, can be pretty damaging to your pipes. Instead, take the safer route and invest in an inexpensive drain snake which you can find at your local home improvement store. The drain snake is an excellent tool in helping you clear clogged drains.

These are just a few tips we suggest for preventing water damage in your home. But if you do happen to encounter water damage, give SERVPRO of Scottsdale a call at (480) 998-7989. We are always here to help 24/7. 

How the Pros Will Clean up After Your Water Damage

6/22/2018 (Permalink)

To take care of water damage after a flood, call the professionals.

Sometimes, no matter what measures you put in place water can find its way into your home. It can happen after a large rainstorm, or it can happen due to broken pipes or other plumbing issues. Water can affect flooring, drywall and many of your personal items. Though water damage can be costly, it doesn’t have to be permanent. When you choose an experienced professional to help with the cleanup, you can have peace of mind.

Inspect the Area

The first step the pros will take will be thoroughly assessing the affected area in your Scottsdale, AZ, home. The tech will do the following:

• Identify how water got into your home.
• Identify the type of water that caused the damage.
• Evaluate how extensive the damage was.
• Get any furniture out of harm’s way.

Extract the Water

Once the technician takes care of the inspection and evaluation, it’s time for water cleanup. A trained technician will bring heavy-duty equipment and will use powerful chemicals and methods to ensure you won’t have to worry about residual water in your Scottsdale, AZ, home. The tech will remove excess water using pumps and a wet vac or high-powered extraction machine. This highly trained professional may also use cameras in walls to identify hidden water in those difficult-to-see places.

Drying

Removing the water isn’t enough to take care of all water damage. It’s essential that the professional completely dry the area to inhibit the growth of mold or other bacteria. The technician will use industrial-strength dryers and humidifiers to dry the flooring, walls or other wet areas.

Sanitize

The final step in this comprehensive process is cleaning the affected area. This will help ensure your space is once again livable. To do this, the professional company will use both dry cleaning and wet cleaning of carpet, pads, hardwood, walls and anywhere else where water has caused damage. To mitigate bad smells, the cleanup company will use scrubbers and deodorizers.

To take care of water damage after a flood, call the professionals. They’ll use a reliable process to get your home looking great again. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com/.

Top 3 Things You Should Know About Water Damage

3/21/2018 (Permalink)

This facility had a massive water damage and SERVPRO of Scottsdale was called to cleanup.

Flooding and the subsequent water damage can be a major pain for Scottsdale, AZ homeowners. While you may hope to never have to deal with water damage, the fact is you may want to know a bit about the process surrounding floods. You can work with a residential water damage specialist to learn more about the damage and cleanup, or you can turn to this quick guide.

Why It Happens

Water damage can be caused by a myriad of situations, including the following:

" A pipe burst or other plumbing issues
" Water collection in basements, crawlspaces or attics
" Natural disasters
" Problems with a dishwasher, washing machine or other appliances
" Sewer backups

Understanding a bit about why water damage takes place may help you prepare for the problems.

How To Clean Up

The cleanup process after a residential flood may vary based on the cause of the water. If it was a pipe bursting, for example, you may have to remove your belongings from the house to allow them to dry out. Carpets and other flooring may also have to be torn out to better clean up the damage done by the water. If the damage was done by a sewer backup, the cleaning process may require a few more steps. Because your needs may vary so much, it is important for you to work with a team that knows what to do no matter the situation.

What To Know About Restoration

After you have cleaned up the initial mess of the flooding, the work may not be over. Depending on the extent of the water damage, your home may need to be restored. For example, if some of the drywall had to be taken out to avoid mold growth, the restoration will include replacing the drywall. The size of the restoration can vary based on the source of the water. A water line problem, for example, could encompass a larger portion of your home than a leaky shower.

Learning more about water damage can help you better prepare for floods, a burst pipe or other sources of excessive water. It's better to learn about the issues before you have to deal with them. Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on water damage. 

Why Calling the Professionals is Your Best Move When it Comes to Water Damage

9/15/2017 (Permalink)

Why Calling the Professionals is Your Best Move When it Comes to Water Damage

Together with fire and storm damage, water damage is one of the leading causes of property losses in the United States. Each year, tens of billions of dollars in damages occur at private residences and businesses due to flood damage. This makes it crucial for the public at large to understand the proper steps to take in case of a flood damage event, when hours and days can often spell the difference between a relatively inexpensive recovery and a total write off of the property.

Fortunately, there are many professional restoration companies throughout the United States that have the expertise, manpower and equipment to properly handle any water damage event. Almost every town in America has a professional restoration company. And the first thing that any property owner should do when facing potential water damage is to call in the professionals.

Let's take a closer look at the process that a property owner can expect their local professional restoration company to follow whenever they have been called in for the restoration or mitigation of water damage.

When flood damage occurs, make the call!


It almost cannot be emphasized enough that attempting to handle the restoration and mitigation of flood damage by oneself is almost always the wrong choice. It is crucial to call your local restoration company as soon as water in your home or water in your business that may potentially lead to flood damage is noticed.

Upon receiving the call about a flooded home or business, the restoration company will send a team of water damage restoration and mitigation specialists to the site of the flooded home or business. The water cleanup team will typically arrive within 30 minutes of the call being received and will immediately begin mitigation efforts.

The team will go directly to the source of the original pipe break or supply line break and will shut off any active leak. They have the tools and training necessary to quickly stop the flow of water, even if this means that emergency welding or pipe cutting needs to take place at the site of the pipe break or supply line break.

The team will also note the level of flood water in the business or water in the home. They will classify the water and form a plan to remove it as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Large-scale removal of standing water


Next, the water cleanup team will begin the removal of all standing water in the business or water in the home. With the use of specialized vacuum equipment, that can removed up to 2,000 gallons of water from a flooded home or business each hour, the team will be able to remove all water in the home or water in the business. This process will typically take less than one hour.

The water cleanup team will begin thoroughly drying the property


The water cleanup team will then begin the drying process. This will be carried out with industrial-strength drying equipment and dehumidifiers, the latter being able to bring the ambient humidity down to nearly zero percent. Special care will be taken to make sure the area around the original supply line break or pipe break is completely free of moisture. Even areas around the pipe break or supply line break that are invisible to the eye will be completely dried through the use of equipment that can raise ambient temperatures to near the flashpoint of the materials being dried.

The drying process may take anywhere from a couple hours to an entire day. When this step is complete, the flooded home or business will appear to be restored.

The final cleansing


The final step in the damage mitigation process is to thoroughly cleanse all furniture, surfaces and fixtures that have come into contact with flood water. At this point, the property will be restored to its original condition.
Visit http://www.SERVPROscottsdale.com for more information on water damage.