Recent Water Damage Posts

Safeguarding Home and Hearth: Creating a Family Emergency Plan for Water-Related Incidents

1/30/2024 (Permalink)

Water-related emergencies, whether caused by floods, burst pipes, or sudden leaks, can catch us off guard. Having a well-thought-out family emergency plan is paramount to ensure the safety of your loved ones and the protection of your home. In this blog, we'll guide you through the process of creating a family emergency plan specifically tailored for water-related incidents, helping you respond effectively and minimize potential damage.

Knowledge is Power

Educate your family about the potential water-related risks in your area. Discuss the likelihood of flooding, common causes of water damage, and the seasonal variations that may impact your home.

Compile a list of essential emergency contacts and ensure that all family members have access to it. Include local emergency services, your insurance provider, and contacts for professional restoration services in case of significant water damage.

Communication Strategy

Establish a communication strategy that includes a designated meeting point outside the home and an out-of-town contact person. During an emergency, local phone lines may be overwhelmed, so having an out-of-town contact can serve as a central point for communication.

Assemble a comprehensive emergency kit that includes essential items such as non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, important documents, and any necessary medications. Ensure that the kit is easily accessible to all family members.

Water Shut-Off Location

Familiarize all family members with the location of the main water shut-off valve in your home. In the event of a burst pipe or flooding, shutting off the water supply swiftly can prevent further damage.

Identify and discuss evacuation routes from your home. Know the safest ways to exit each room and designate a meeting point outside. Practice evacuation drills with your family to ensure everyone is familiar with the procedures.

Emergency Procedures

Outline specific emergency procedures for various water-related incidents. This may include steps to take during a flood, burst pipe, or leaking appliance. Ensure that every family member understands their role in executing these procedures.

Safeguard important documents, such as identification, insurance policies, and property deeds, in a waterproof and easily transportable container. Having these documents readily available is crucial for insurance claims and recovery efforts.

Insurance Coverage Review

Regularly review your home insurance coverage with your family. Ensure that everyone understands what is covered in the event of water damage and the process for filing a claim. Update your coverage as needed.

Document your family emergency plan in a clear and concise format. Include key information, emergency contacts, evacuation routes, and procedures for water-related incidents. Distribute copies to each family member and keep one in your emergency kit.

Practice Situational Awareness

Encourage family members to be aware of their surroundings and alert for potential water-related hazards. Teach them to recognize signs of water damage, such as discolored walls, musty odors, or unusual sounds.

Emergency Savings Fund

Establish an emergency savings fund to cover immediate expenses in the aftermath of water-related incidents. Having financial resources readily available can expedite recovery efforts. Periodically review and update your family emergency plan. As circumstances change, such as home renovations or additions to the family, ensure that your plan reflects these adjustments.

Creating a family emergency plan for water-related incidents is a proactive step towards safeguarding your home and loved ones. By instilling a sense of preparedness and practicing your plan regularly, you empower your family to respond effectively in times of crisis. Treat preparedness as a family tradition, ensuring that each member understands their role and the importance of collective action. With a well-prepared family, you can face water-related emergencies with confidence, resilience, and the assurance that you have taken the necessary steps to protect what matters most.

Common Signs of Water Damage in Your Home

10/10/2023 (Permalink)

Flood cuts in a home due to a water leak. Recognizing these common signs of water damage in your Winter Haven home is crucial for early detection and prevention.

Water damage can strike when you least expect it, and early detection is key to preventing extensive damage and costly repairs. In this blog, we'll discuss common signs of water damage in your home, helping you identify issues promptly and take action to protect your property.

Musty Odors

Unpleasant, musty odors often indicate the presence of hidden water damage. If your home smells damp or moldy, it's essential to investigate the source promptly. Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, and their presence can worsen indoor air quality and pose serious risks.

Visible Water Stains

Water stains on ceilings or walls are telltale signs of water intrusion. These stains often appear as discolored patches or streaks and may grow over time. Identifying and addressing the source of the water is critical to prevent further damage.

Peeling or Bubbling Paint and Wallpaper

Moisture can cause paint to peel or wallpaper to bubble away from the wall. If you notice these signs, it's likely that there is water damage behind the surface. Investigate further to prevent more extensive issues.

Warped or Buckled Flooring

Wooden floors, laminate, and even tiles can warp or buckle when exposed to excess moisture. These changes in the flooring's appearance may be due to leaks or flooding and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

Sagging or Discolored Drywall

Drywall can become compromised when it absorbs water. Look for areas of your walls or ceilings that appear saggy or discolored, as this may be an indication of hidden water damage within the walls.

Cracking or Flaking Caulk

Water damage can affect the caulk or sealant around sinks, bathtubs, and windows. If you notice cracking or flaking caulk, it's a sign that water may be infiltrating these areas, potentially leading to structural issues.

Visible Mold Growth

Mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. If you see any mold growth, even a small amount, it's a sign of a moisture problem that needs immediate attention. Mold can be harmful to your health and should be remediated professionally.

Increased Utility Bills

A sudden increase in water or energy bills without a clear explanation can also indicate a water leak. Be vigilant about unexpected spikes in your utility costs, as they may signal an underlying issue.

Recognizing these common signs of water damage in your Winter Haven home is crucial for early detection and prevention. If you suspect water damage, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO® of Winter Haven for professional assessment and restoration services. Our team is dedicated to helping our community protect their homes and property from the effects of water damage. Remember, addressing water damage promptly can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Causes & Categories of Water Damage

3/1/2023 (Permalink)

An old poem has the line, “water, water, everywhere”. When you need to say this in your house, you know there is trouble. You may be looking at water damage. There are several different possible causes of water damage.

Causes can include:

Leaky dishwashers or washing machines
Clogged pipes
Leaking roofs
Broken toilet pipes
Heavy rain
Water heater leaks
The amount of water damage depends on the amount of water and on the cause of the damage.

It is also important to start the cleanup as soon as possible. The longer your home or business is water-logged, the more damage.

Categories of Water Damage:

Clean water. It might come from an overflowing sink or a broken appliance. The water does not pose a threat to people. Keep in mind that any water will become contaminated after it stops flowing.
Gray water. This water is contaminated from the get-go. It comes from broken toilets or sump pumps. It might not look dirty, or it might be brown.
Blackwater. Like gray water, it might not look dirty. One major source of black water is broken sewage pipes. Another source is any water that has been standing still.

Leaking Roof Causing Water Damage

2/6/2023 (Permalink)

If you have a roof leak it is very important to get a professional company out to address the damage and either fix it or tarp it. If the leak continues it can turn into more than just a roof leak. The roof leaked and continued to leak and eventually caused the drywall ceiling to collapse. The customer was overwhelmed and needed help. SERVPRO was able to go out and take it off their hands. They were very pleased with our services.

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is a Florida State licensed Certified Building Contractor, Mold Remediator, and Mold Assessor. We are IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified in Fire/Water/Mold clean-up & restoration. Call us at 863-551-5004, we are always here to help

Residential Water

2/6/2023 (Permalink)

Often times the damage is caused when a problem goes without being noticed right away. Time is of the essence when you are dealing with water damage, and the key is to act fast! 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.

You may need to vacate your home during the repairs, and the disruption of your normal routine could really have a huge impact on your way of life. Having to stay in a hotel or at a friend’s home isn’t the way you want to spend your week, or sometimes, weeks.

Even if the issue is handled swiftly, water damage has been known to wreak havoc even months down the road. Often times the leak isn’t noticeable and maybe behind (link to pipe section here) a wall or in the ceiling.

The longer a leak goes unnoticed, the more money it can cost you to get fixed. Moving quickly also increases the chance that your personal belongings can be saved or restored.

Not only is important to start the process as quickly as possible for your tangible items, but it is also for the things you can’t see right away. Damage inside your walls or ceiling can absolutely affect your health and is something that has serious repercussions. Withstanding water and wet items comes mold.

For all of your water-related issues call SERVPRO of Winter Haven at 863-551-5004. Let the pros handle it and make it "Like it never even happened."

Overflowing Sink

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

There was water damage that happened in Kissimmee FL. It was caused by an overflowing sink that went unnoticed until it seeped into the next room where the homeowner had been sitting. This caused water to travel throughout the home. Anything can happen, so it is best to expect the unexpected and have a plan of action for moments like this.

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is a Florida State licensed Certified Building Contractor, Mold Remediator, and Mold Assessor. We are IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified in Fire/Water/Mold clean-up & restoration. Call us at 863-551-5004, we are always here to help 24/7.

IICRC Certified

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Winter Haven has been an IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified firm for ten years. The IICRC sets the gold standards for the Cleaning and Remediation industry, of which SERVPRO is an industry leader. The following is from the IICRC official website (http://www.IICRC.org).

”IICRC Certified Firms have earned the right to display the clean trust logo as a symbol of quality. In order to achieve IICRC-certified status, firms must meet a rigorous list of standards in business ethics and expertise.

"IICRC Certified Firms must:

"• Present accurate information to consumers and conduct business with honesty and integrity.

"• Require a technician on all jobs who has been formally trained and passed all required tests.

"• Require a continuing education program to keep technicians up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry.

"• Maintain liability insurance to protect all parties in the event of an accident.

"• Maintain a written complaint policy and agree to Better Business Bureau or similar arbitration to resolve disputes, and accept the conclusions and recommendations of arbitration.

"The IICRC actively pursues relationships with fiber producers, carpet and fabric mills, furnishing manufacturers and retailers, and others affiliated with the industry. The use of IICRC-certified service professionals is specified in leading manufacturers’ maintenance brochures and warranties.”

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is honored to count it among the select organizations to receive this certification. We will continue to offer the same standard of excellence that you have come to expect, but now we have the IICRC stamp of approval to back that up.

Tips on Choosing a Restoration Company

When water damages your home or business time is critical, and shopping for a contractor is not a luxury you can afford. Chris Brill Owner of SERVPRO of Winter Haven

SERVPRO of Winter Haven's In Place Drying

5/4/2022 (Permalink)

Equipment used for in place drying

SERVPRO of Winter Haven received an urgent call from one of our valued customers stating that they had a water loss in one of their branches. We advised her that we would be there as quickly as possible.

One of SERVPRO's Winter Haven's crew was on-site within 90 minutes of receiving the call. Upon initial inspection, it was found that the cause of loss was a small hot water heater under the kitchen sink. Our technicians got right to work finding all of the affected areas, documenting everything with photos and written documentation. The amount of equipment was determined and put in place for our in-place drying.

You'll see in this photo two of SERVPRO's drying fans and holes that were drilled behind where the baseboards were due to the walls being insulated.

Once again SERVPRO of Winter Haven has proven that we can truly make it "Like it never even happened."

Why Water Damage Can Be So Dangerous

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

One classic mistake homeowners make is underestimating the effect that water damage can have on their homes. More than just making everything wet and generally unpleasant for a time, the consequences of a flood can be far more severe. Our restoration experts at SERVPRO of Winter Haven know that there are a lot of reasons why water damage can develop into a very serious problem in your home.

Contaminated floodwater is a very serious and dangerous issue. If you have any reason to think that floodwater in your home is contaminated, you should avoid it at all costs. The bacteria and microorganisms that can fester in floodwater are often quite dangerous and should only be handled by experienced cleaning and restoration technicians.

Last, of all, electrical problems are a common occurrence after a flood. One of your first steps after your home is flooded should be to shut off the electricity to your home. This will end the risk of electrocution for anyone in the home after the flood. Once this has been done, you should hope that the flooding has not compromised any of the electrical systems within your home. This usually occurs when floodwater goes into your outlets or short circuits other electrical implements within your home.

With these potential hazards in mind, it is clear why even small amounts of water damage should be taken seriously. Thus, the best thing you should do upon noticing water damage is to contact a professional cleaning and restoration company without delay. We at SERVPRO of Winter Haven are one such company here to help you with any and all of your water damage cleanup needs.

Call SERVPRO of Winter Haven at 863-551-5004

Preventing Water Damage in Your Home

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

About 40-50% of all homeowners have experienced a loss from water damage. It can spread contamination, ruin your paint and damage your wood. The good news is that 93% of all water damage could have been prevented with the right knowledge. How can you protect your home from residential water damage? Here are seven ways to prepare.

1. Damaged Pipes
Plumbing systems, especially in older homes, are susceptible to stoppages and damage. To prevent plumbing problems before they start, be on the lookout for cracks, bulges, stains, and other signs of moisture on your ceiling or floors. If you spot a leak, it could be a sign that there is damage in other areas as well. Spikes in your water bill could mean you have additional damage to your landscaping, flooring, and foundation. Look out for pipes in areas prone to collecting water, such as crawl spaces, cabinets, and attics. If you see any signs of water damage, call a plumber right away to avoid larger problems in the future. Be sure to check and insulate your pipes every year before winter begins. Pipes can rupture and freeze within a few hours, soaking your entire house.

2. Appliances
As appliances get older, their pipes can rust and their hoses can weaken. Dishwasher leaks can leave an unwelcome puddle on your kitchen floor. Common causes include worn gaskets, broken doors, and clogged drains. It can cause damage to your tile, electrical wiring, and paint. A great way to prevent buildup in your dishwasher is to run a quart of vinegar through the machine each month. You can also scrape and rinse before you load it.

Flooding caused by washing machines is usually caused by leaky hoses. The leak can worsen over time and cause damage to your home. A washing machine valve shutoff kit can prevent the six gallons of water per minute from flooding into your home.

Refrigerators produce a lot of access water that can pool on the bottom of them. Drain lines can also become clogged. If there is a leak in the water supply line that feeds your ice machine, you could come home to a lot of standing water. To prevent your refrigerator from flooding, be sure that it is well insulated. Make sure that you do not move it in and out of its normal position too often, and inspect it regularly for leaks.

3. Clogged Drains
Bathroom and sink drains can become quickly clogged with dirt, grease, hair, and other substances. Pipes can break down, and structural damage is common. If drain clogs are not cleared, problems such as disease, sickness, and aggravated health conditions could occur. If left unchecked, clogged drains can cause damage to other places in the home. For example, a clogged toilet can back up into your sink. You may even warp the floorboards and wall support. Small screens can help keep unwanted materials from clogging drains. Pouring boiling water down your drain once a month can help dissolve grease, soap scum, and other debris before it clogs your pipes.

4. Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, breaking dams, and snowstorms can all bring excessive water into your home, causing it to flood. Large amounts of water can’t be absorbed by the land and may overflow into your home. A flood alarm and warning system can help you protect your home against a natural disaster. If you live in a coastal area, be sure to purchase additional flood insurance. Some folks living in flood-prone areas raise their homes on stilts to prepare for floods. Others install foundation vents or sump pumps. You can also grade your lawn away from the house. Make sure you know where the water main is and shut it off when you leave for an extended period of time. This way, you will not come home to any unwanted surprises.

5. HVAC Units
Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems within your home can cause floods. Be sure to have these systems inspected and cleaned regularly. If you know there is an impending storm, shut off your central air conditioning to prevent damage and the risk of electrocution.

6. Sump Pump Problems
If your sump pump stops working, you could have a major flood in your basement. You will then have to deal with mold growth, water removal, and bacteria. To keep your sump pump working optimally, always make sure that it is standing upright. Be sure that the vent hole in the discharge pipe is clear. Your outlet pipes should be joined tightly together and drained out at least six feet from your location. If you notice any leaks in your sump pump, call a professional immediately.

7. Structural Damage
Moisture dripping through your concrete and crawl spaces can lead to mold and rotting. Check your home regularly for these signs. Cleaning your gutters regularly and maintaining your trees and vegetation will keep unwelcome water from damaging your walls and foundation. You can also install flood protection devices, such as an alarm that goes off when it detects moisture. Make sure your home’s water pressure is not too high. If it is, pipes and hoses can fail under the pressure. You can install a water pressure gauge to help you keep it even. A water pressure regulator can help you in homes where the water pressure cannot be controlled.

Preventing Residential Water Damage
Residential water damage can be caused by natural disasters, clogged drains, or damaged pipes. With the right precautions, you likely won’t have to worry about water damage for years to come.

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is a Florida State licensed Certified Building Contractor, Mold, and Mold Assessor. We are IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified in Fire/Water/Mold clean-up & restoration. Call us at 863-551-5004, we are always here to help.

Community Fest- Follow Up

4/20/2018 (Permalink)

Community Fest

First of all, thank you everyone that came out to join us for the community fest in Winter Haven. We got a lot of great photos and met some pretty amazing people of our community. To give a number on how many great people, 5,000- 6,000 attended the event.

SERVPRO would like to remind you that we are a fire, water and mold restoration company. We also offer a lot of other great services like Deep cleanings, carpet cleaning and Bio-hazard Cleanups. If you have a question regarding any of our services please give us a call. We are always here to help. 

SERVPRO of Winter Haven is a Florida State licensed Certified Building Contractor, Mold Remediator, and Mold Assessor. We are IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) certified in Fire/Water/Mold clean-up & restoration. Call us at 863-551-5004, we are always here to help.