As we move into seasons marked by heavy rains, homeowners must be vigilant about protecting their properties from potential water damage. Prolonged and intense rainfall can lead to flooding, leaks, and structural issues that can be costly and time-consuming to repair. However, with a few proactive steps, you can safeguard your home and minimize the risk of water damage. Here’s how:
1. Inspect and Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts are your first line of defense against water damage. They help channel rainwater away from your home's foundation. Ensure that they are free from debris like leaves and twigs, which can cause blockages. Regularly check for any signs of rust, cracks, or disconnections. Extend downspouts at least 4 to 6 feet away from the foundation to prevent water from pooling near your home.
2. Seal Windows, Doors, and Cracks
Windows and doors are common entry points for water during heavy rains. Check the seals around them and reapply caulking if needed. Also, inspect the exterior of your home for any cracks or gaps in the walls or foundation. Sealing these with appropriate materials will prevent water from seeping in and causing damage.
3. Landscaping Considerations
The landscaping around your home plays a significant role in water management. Ensure that the ground slopes away from your house, allowing water to flow away from the foundation. Avoid planting shrubs and trees too close to your home, as their roots can interfere with drainage systems and even damage the foundation.
4. Check to verify your Sump Pump is functioning correctly
For homes with basements, a sump pump is an essential investment. This device helps remove water that accumulates in the basement, preventing flooding and water damage. Make sure your sump pump is in good working condition and consider installing a battery backup system in case of power outages during storms.
5. Backflow Prevention
Heavy rains can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, leading to sewage backups in homes. To prevent this, consider installing a backflow valve in your sewer line. This device allows sewage to flow out of your home but prevents it from flowing back in.
6. Insurance Coverage
Finally, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for water damage. Standard policies often do not cover flooding, so you may need to purchase additional flood insurance, especially if you live in a flood-prone area.
Heavy rains can pose a significant threat to your home, but with careful preparation and regular maintenance, you can minimize the risks. Taking these proactive steps not only protects your property but also provides peace of mind during stormy weather. Remember, the key to protecting your home from water damage is vigilance and timely action. Stay safe and dry!
If you're experiencing water intrusion or flooding in your property, don't wait for the damage to worsen. Call SERVPRO of Northern Summit County 330-650-4486 immediately for professional assistance. Our team is ready to help you protect your home and restore peace of mind. Contact us today for a prompt response and expert service 24/7/365.
When lightning strikes, it is very important to know what to do in these situations, and to make sure that you are taking the precautions that are needed in these specific occurrences.
Check the Forecast
Staying up to date with the news and keeping it on during storms is your best bet for knowing exactly when the storm will start and when it will end. This also gives you a great gauge on when you will be able to safely go outside.
Don’t Go Outside
You should never voluntarily go outside when it is lightning. You will never know the severity of the lightning until it’s too late, so, in these instances, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you are outside and not home, make sure to find shelter nearby.
Avoid Water
Bathing, showering, washing dishes, and anything having to do with water are off-limits until the storm has cleared.
Avoid Anything Plugged into an Outlet
Try not to use electronic devices that are plugged into an outlet. With lightning being able to travel through electrical systems, your best bet is to not use anything plugged into an outlet.
Stay Away From Windows
Remaining a safe distance from windows is a great way to be cautious during the event of a lightning storm. Certain windows can conduct electricity, meaning that if you are standing very close to them or touching them, they can electrocute you if lighting strikes at the right time.
There are ways to be cautious during a lightning storm, and make sure you are remembering to always be vigilant and listen to your local news. If lightning strikes and causes a disaster, SERVPRO is here for you 24/7.
If a storm hits your neighborhood and your home takes a battering in the winter weather, will your insurance company pay for repairs?
The answer is a qualified probably – but it does depend. Every company writes its own rules and the best thing to do is check the details of your policy so you know exactly what is and is not covered.
And if you are unhappy with the coverage you have, it is easy to upgrade policies or change companies for a better one – but you obviously need to do this before the storm happens.
Most standard homeowner policies do cover damage caused by winter storms – ice, snow, wind, severe low temperatures, and freezing rain. But again – do not take this as proof you are covered, check your policy.
But – and this is an important ‘but’ – standard policies usually do not cover flood damage. So damage to the roof by hail or snow will probably be paid for, but not damage caused to furniture and carpets caused by snow melting into the home.
Flood damage insurance is easily obtained, and can even be a bolt-on extra to your existing homeowner policy, but do not take it for granted and assume it is there without checking.
Another reason to check your policy details is to see if there are any expectations on you as the property owner – some will pay out only if you have handled preventative maintenance to minimize winder damage to your property, such as shutting off the water when not in use, or if you are a snowbird, some policies cease to be effective if the property is unoccupied for extended durations.
For months like spring, summer, and winter, weathering your home is a good plan. With winter bringing snowstorms for the majority of states, and spring and summer having high probabilities of rain and thunderstorms, weatherproofing your home will be beneficial in the long run, and help to prevent any damage.
Investigate your roof
The roof is one of the critical parts in protecting your home from the weather, and if your room is in poor shape, or if your shingles are damaged, this raises concerns for weather conditions. If shingles are cracked or damaged this can cause leaking or damage to your home, that could be avoided by investing in new shingles that do not break as easily, some have switched to rubber shingles due to them being less likely to break.
Check out your gutters
Are there leaves, debris, or nests in your gutters? This issue can be easily resolved by installing guards for your gutters. This will prevent debris, leaves, and nests from clogging your gutters, and will help water to flow properly away from your home and not in your gutters.
Windows
Checking your windows to make sure that they are secure and not drafty is a huge thing to see if your windows are prepared for storms. Even if there are no drafts or cracks, investing in storm windows will help to minimize any stress if an unexpected storm were to occur.
If any unexpected storms happen, SERVPRO is here, 24/7, for YOU
You know what they say, “expect the unexpected” and an unexpected hailstorm is something to be prepared for. Whether you are driving, outside, or staying safe inside, there is a list of ways to make sure you are prepared for these unexpected disasters and ways to prepare your home as well.
Outside during a hailstorm
If you are outside when a hailstorm happens, make sure to find a safe place to go. If you have anything on hand that may be big enough to cover your head, use that to make sure your head does not get injured. Better yet, if you have something that may protect your entire body, that is ideal. Do not hide under anything that may break or cause debris, such as trees. Tree branches may snap off and cause injury.
In a car during a hailstorm
If you are driving during a hailstorm, try and find a place to park instead of continuing to drive. Remain in your vehicle until the hail stops and try to get further away from car windows if possible, and make sure to cover your eyes for added protection
Inside during a hailstorm.
Remain inside until the hail stops and make sure to stay away from any windows. Do not leave the building, house, etc. for any reason
Preparing your home for a hailstorm
Check your roof, if your roof is in good condition, you should not have any issues if the hail begins to pile on. Make sure to get your roof inspected to make sure there are no issues, and when unexpected things happen, you will be prepared. Storm shutters are a great investment for you, your family, and your home. These will reduce any damage from hailstorms and the winds they may bring. Bring outdoor items inside, and make sure they are in a safe space that will not harm you or any of the occupants in your home. If you are unable to move items due to their size, try to cover them with a tarp to minimize damage if possible.
If you have witnessed damage from an unexpected hailstorm, SERVPRO is here for any damage, and will always be here for YOU 24/7.
There are factors that go into storms and sometimes you may be stuck at work in the event of an unexpected storm. There are ways to prepare and ways to make sure you are prepared. You have to make sure that you are safe, but you also need to make sure that others in your workplace are safe as well. Here are some ways to prepare for severe weather when you are at work.
Tips for when a thunderstorm is approaching
Always make sure that you or your coworkers have access to a weather radio. This is the best way to make sure you are getting the updates you need in the event of an emergency.
Know where your office fire extinguisher and safety kit are located. If an extreme situation were to happen, this is a great way to make sure you and your coworkers are prepared.
In the event of a fire emergency, make sure you and your coworkers are aware of any emergency exits or have an existing plan in the event of an emergency situation.
Severe Thunderstorm Preparedness
If there is a storm that is brewing, make sure that you are unplugging any equipment if you are asked to.
Do not go outside, and make sure that you are staying away from windows, or staying as far away from them as possible. This is your best bet if you are in an emergency situation.
Make sure that you are aware of the difference between a tornado WATCH and a tornado WARNING in your area.
Tornado Preparedness
In the scenario that a tornado has touched down close to your workplace, or is forecasted to touch down, make sure that you are prepared and are keeping your eyes on the news.
Sit under a desk if there is one nearby or a table. This is in extreme situations, but useful if you are ever in one of these scenarios.
Make sure you are staying as far away as possible from the windows. If your workplace does not have an emergency shelter, the best bet is to go to where there are no windows to protect yourself the most from a tornado.
SERVPRO is here 24/7 to help in emergency situations and extreme weather conditions.
Preparing Your Home for Snow, Sleet and other Slick Storms
Snow, Sleet, and other Slick Storms are something that you and your family should be prepared for, especially in the coming months. These months, we are prone to see ice, sleet, snow, sometimes hail, so we have to be prepared for when the time arises. Here are some tips for how to prepare your home and your family for these storms.
Always check your home’s heating and air conditioning system
Always make sure that your home’s heating and air conditioning system is working properly, and is being maintained. Change the filters, and have the system inspected by a good HVAC contractor. Look into an annual maintenance agreement. The contractor will check your system and make sure your heat is going to be there when you need it the most.
Maintenance on Your Chimney and Other Heating Equipment
It’s important to make sure that your heating equipment and chimneys are cleaned and inspected before the winter. The filter of your furnace will need to be replaced on a regular basis to prevent any mishaps with the heating equipment.
Set the heat to around 55 degrees or higher to make sure that your pipes do not freeze or burst.
Install storm proof windows
Installing stormproof windows will help to prevent any heat from escaping. You may also use plastic sheeting to prevent the heat from getting out, and letting the cold air in.
Let faucets drip consistently when it is freezing outside
This will help to prevent any water pipes from freezing.
Paying attention to the roof
Make sure that no tree branches are extending over the roof, this will prevent any damage to your home if heavy snow is piled on your roof, or if ice has covered over top.
It’s just as important to check your home’s exterior after a storm as it is the interior. In fact, it may be more important to check the exterior, since that’s where water usually gets into your home.
Here is a quick list of what you should check on the exterior of your home after a storm. It only takes a few minutes, and it can save you hundreds, even thousands, of dollars in home repair costs.
First, check your siding. Strong winds, rain, and hail can loosen your siding, whether you have vinyl or wood siding. Also, check window frames and shutters for vulnerability as well as rot.
Next, give your outdoor structures a quick check. That includes decks, sheds, fences, pergolas, gazebos, even garden arbors.
While you’re out checking these structures, remember to check your trees to make sure no branches have fallen or were damaged or weakened during the storm. These can pose a threat for future storms.
Finally, check your roof. Be careful when inspecting your roof. Make sure to use a sturdy ladder and good grippy shoes to prevent slipping and falling. As you inspect your roof, look for shingles that have been turned up or are missing. Any place where shingles have been damaged is a potential spot for water to seep in. Take a picture of the damage and call your insurance agency, as your insurance may cover the costs of roof repair.
Schools, office buildings, hotels, and hospitals all have plans posted (even practiced) in case of an emergency. So, why not have a disaster recovery plan for you in your own home or business? This may or may not be something that you have considered before, and perhaps it has just been put on the backburner with other tasks. However, this is a task that you may not want to put off; after all, disaster can strike at any time.
By ensuring that you have a solid plan that everyone is aware of, not only will clean-up be easier, but it will help to ensure the safety and well-being of loved ones. So, where exactly should you start and what are the benefits?
Reduced fear, anxiety, and panic if disaster should strike – Have a good understanding of what disasters you may face. If you live in an area that is prone to tornadoes, you’ll want to make sure there is a safe shelter for everyone. Additionally, you will want to make sure there are provisions in your shelter such as water, blankets, dry food, lights, batteries, etc.
Avoid confusion and extra stress - Make sure that everyone is aware of the disaster plan and there are clear responsibilities. No matter the age, everyone who lives or works under your plan should be well versed in what to do if there is a flood, fire, or other natural disasters. Discussing and practicing this plan can help to ensure that everyone is in the loop.
Less stress with clean-up and repairs - Check with your insurance! Make sure that all of the bases are covered with your insurance, especially that you are covered from floods and other natural disasters.
No need to worry about replacing items that are irreplaceable. Make sure to keep important documents and keepsakes in a fireproof and waterproof safe. Not only will this help to make the claims and clean up an easier transition, but you can also protect important pictures and documents.
Less counting later on! Keep an inventory of all valuables. If you should have to file a claim, it will be easier to pull the record out as opposed to trying to scan your stressed brain.
If you decide that it is time to make and follow a disaster plan, make sure that you do your research so that you are well prepared. It is easy to get caught up in life and forget that disasters do happen, but if it should happen, you’ll be glad that you were ready. If you are in the middle of making your plan and are not sure of what contacts to put in your phone, add SERVPRO to the list, we are faster to any disaster!
TORNADOS are highly common in many parts of our country and every household should be prepared to act quickly when the warning sirens blare.
Even if do not hear a siren or get a text warning, there are clear signs a tornado may be heading your way including seeing a funnel cloud, hearing roaring noises, a suddenly darkening or green-colored sky, hail, and debris in the wind.
Fortunately, preparing a safe spot in your home to wait out a tornado is simple and well worth doing to protect your family.
Have a designated safe room – the lower the better, preferably in the basement. Even a closet without windows can work.
Ensure you have essential supplies on hand in the safe room – food, water, first aid supplies, important documents, clothing, blankets, battery-powered radio, medication, and pet supplies. Some books may help pass the time too.
Remove any loose items from around your home to stop them from being thrown into the building and causing damage – trash cans, patio furniture, fallen tree branches, grills, and the like.
Have your home checked over by professionals to ensure masonry and chimneys are in good condition and secured. They can also help reinforce the safety room, especially its doorways.
And finally, check your insurance policy to be sure you understand what is and is not covered in the event of damage. If it needs updating do it before tornado season.
How Ohio Storms Can Damage the Interior of Your Home
With Ohio thunderstorms come hail and high winds. And this year, in particular, we’ve experienced quite a bit of rain. These conditions can cause a range of damage to your home. It’s important to be on the lookout for any signs, so you can catch them early.
The next time a storm comes along, we encourage you to check for these signs of storm damage inside your home. A quick walk-through is all you need, and it can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars in repair costs.
First, check your ceilings. If you find any flaking paint, discoloration, or dripping on your ceiling, then chances are good that your roof has a leak. You will want to follow the leak up to your attic, to see where the leak is coming from.
Next, check your walls because walls can show signs of water and moisture damage just like ceilings. If you find any moldy, mildewy dark spots; chipping or flaking paint; or streaks where water has run down, then you know that water is seeping in. Trace the water back to find the source, so you can fix it immediately.
Regular Roof Maintenance Homeowners Can Do to Prevent Storm Damage
What other part of a home takes a harder beating than the roof? All year it’s subjected to wind, rain, hail, freezing temperatures, and the hot sun. Since your roof is already facing quite a gauntlet, it’s important to regularly maintain it to prevent serious damage. Roofs aren’t cheap, so taking precautions is well worth the time and effort.
Shingles are your roof’s main protective layer. They shield and insulate your roof from the elements. When shingles come loose, peel up, or fall off, your home becomes vulnerable to water damage. That’s why it’s important to check your shingles for any signs of weakness such as missing or loose shingles.
Strong winds will easily get under loose shingles and tear them up with each gust. So even one loose shingle can lead to big, expensive problems.
While you’re checking your shingles, inspect the gutters as well. Make sure your gutters aren’t clogged. Throughout the year, gutters can get packed with dirt, leaves, and tree nuts. If they aren’t cleaned out, water will build up and run over your roof, which can cause water damage.
If water sits too long on your roof, you can also get moss patches. While some homeowners find mossy roofs pretty, it’s actually destructive. Moss holds water and can push shingles away from the roof, allowing water to sink through. If you see moss on your roof, try applying zinc sulphate granules regularly, or call a roof repair company.
Finally, protect your roof by trimming any overhanging tree branches. Trees can shed, dropping leaves and nuts. And, if squirrels and birds hangout in the tree, you can end up with animal droppings on your roof. But none of those annoyances are as bad as a tree limb dropping on your roof. Make sure trees close to your home are annually inspected and properly trimmed.
Roofs are too important to your home’s structural integrity to forget about. Keep an eye on your roof throughout the year, especially before and after severe weather.
How to Secure Your Outdoor Furniture in Severe Weather
How to Secure Your Outdoor Furniture in Severe Weather
Spring is here and the temperatures are starting to rise. But if you live in Ohio, you know that with spring comes spring storms: rain, hail, thunderstorms, and--wind. Every year spring storms sneak up on homeowners. After a long winter, we’re excited to have our patio furniture out. Then along comes a storm, and we’re out searching the neighborhood for cushions and lightweight furniture.
Have you had to hunt down your own furniture after a storm? We have good news. This is totally preventable!
How to secure your outdoor furniture in storm season?
If you’re worried about outdoor furniture and decor blowing away, protect it from the wind. Of course, you need to be aware of the weather, but let’s assume you tuned in to the weather forecast and know what’s coming. Before a storm hits, close and secure table umbrellas, and cover your outdoor chairs and couches with outdoor furniture covers. Furniture covers are great because they prevent pillows and cushions from being blown away, and they protect the furniture from dirt and dust.
If your furniture is light and easily blown away, we advise bringing it into a covered space like a garage. If a garage is not an option, stack your lightweight furniture in a corner or tight against the back of your home where strong winds are less likely to blow through. You can also use sandbags or other heavy objects to weigh the furniture down.
If you have an outdoor grill, we recommend pushing it against a solid wall. You don’t want it tipping over in the wind.
Taking these precautions will save you from having to search the neighborhood for your outdoor furniture. But your neighbors will appreciate you too because securing your furniture prevents high winds from turning your outdoor furniture into dangerous projectiles.
Storms are scary, but you can’t avoid them. But you can do your best to prepare for them. Homes can be damaged during a storm, however, you can take all opportunities to protect them. Follow these tips to best protect your home during a storm.
Keep the Yard Tidy
When putting away outdoor items, creates less possible debris that can fly into your home.
Secure Windows and Doors
Secure the windows and doors and ensure that they won’t fly open and let debris and winds in
Trim the Trees
Trees closer to your home can be potential debris that can fall not only on your home but your car and the power lines.
Install Storm Shutters and Doors
Installing both storm shutters and doors will protect your home from strong winds, ice, snow, and debris.
Strengthen your Roof
Reinforcing your roof will prevent structural damage and tear-offs.
Taking these simple precautions can protect you, your family, and your home. When a storm hits, you can feel safe and protected.
Wind Storm Blew Off Your Shingles! What Do You Do Now?
Know how to react when a wind storm hits in NE Ohio.
Ohio roofs take a beating in every season. But spring can be the most destructive season. With dramatic changes in atmospheric pressure, strong winds can kick up at a moment’s notice.
If your roof has vulnerable spots, especially along edges and corners, strong winds can sneak under your shingles and blow them off. Once your shingles loosen, your roof is compromised.
To avoid wind damage, have your roof inspected and updated regularly. The key is to have this done before storm season sets in.
If you can, use impact-resistant materials. Also, keep the trees surrounding your home trimmed to prevent loose or dead branches from falling on or being blown onto your roof.
But what if a wind storm has blown off your shingles? What do you do?
Document the full extent of the damage. Do not clean up or making any temporary repairs.
Call a roofing company or contractor to inspect the roof and get an estimate for repairs. If you aren’t sure who to use, contact your public adjuster for help finding a trusted contractor. Remember, you don’t have to take the first estimate you receive, so try different contractors if you’re not happy with the first estimate.
Call your homeowner’s insurance company to report the damage and file a claim.
Depending on the extent of the damage, contact a reliable company, like SERVPRO to tarp your roof and prevent further damage.
If you find yourself in need of storm damage repair and cleanup, give SERVPRO a call at 1-800-SERVPRO. With 1,700 locations in the U.S. and Canada, we respond faster to any size disaster. Representatives are available 24/7.
Be safe!
Proper Tree Maintenance to Prevent Storm Damage on your Property
Take these tips into consideration to protect your home from storm damage.
Oftentimes when a storm hits there are tree branches scattered all over the place. During a storm the wind and rain cause branches to break off which may even cause damage to your home. To help prevent the chances of a storm causing damage to your home follow these tips.
Proper Trees to Plant
Something that needs to be considered before planting a tree is the location of where you live. It is crucial to plant trees that are native to the location where it is being planted. This is because native trees are better suited for the environment and weather conditions in its native area. It will help the tree stay healthy and strong longer, preventing it from causing damage to your home during a storm.
Also when you are looking to plant trees make sure it is grown properly. It can help guarantee it grows to be strong enough to withstand the weather conditions. Rather than having a bunch of support around the young tree being grown minimize the support and let it become adapted to the wind and environment. This will help the tree to have a stronger base and roots which will support the grown tree and allow it to withstand the environment.
Removing Dangerous Trees
It is important to remove trees that appear hazardous, especially before your location's stormiest season. This is because they will likely fall and cause a lot of damage to your home. There are things to look for when trying to identify what may be a hazardous tree on your property. Things like cracks in the trunk, decay of half or more of the tree, dead branches, etc. These are some key indicators of a tree that can be dangerous to have near your home, on your property, or even near a powerline. Be sure to keep a close eye on trees that may be showing any of these indications. If unsure contact a specialist, and remove if necessary.
Pruning Your Trees
It is common for homes to have damage due to dead or broken branches that come down in a storm. Even without heavy winds weak branches can still break off and cause damage. This is why pruning your tree is important because removing all the weak and dead branches can prevent damage further down the line as well as keep your trees healthy.
Be cautious of the damage trees can do to your property. It is important to have the proper maintenance and upkeep of your trees. Here at SERVPRO, we are here to help provide you with any cleanup or consulting you need. Give us a call or visit our website for more information. SERVPRO of Northern Summit County is here to help!
Knowing some of the antiquated terminology surrounding storms can be important to understand how you need to prepare.
If you have never heard the term “100-year flood”, what was the first thing that came to mind? Most probably think that it is a great flood that happens every 100 years or a flood that lasts for years and years. What this term is actually used for is to describe a momentous flood. Because floods can vary in severity and cause, this is a term that is commonly used for those natural disasters that we see on the news. If it does not actually refer to a flood that occurs every 100 years, then how did this term come into play, and is how factual is a “100-year flood”?
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), this term came from the US government in the 1960s. To set a basis for the National Flood Insurance Program, they decided to use the 1-percent annual exceedance probability (AEP), which is “the probability of a flood event occurring in any year”. At this time, the government believed that it would be a fair balance between protecting citizens and overly rigid regulations.
So, the next time you hear someone refer to the “100-year flood”, take peace in knowing that we will not be enduring a flood that lasts 100 years. It is, however, not a myth, and floods still occur, and they can be devastating. With the 1-percent probability (or 1 in 100), it could happen to you. If you find yourself in over your head (pun intended) with flooding and water damage, give us a call. SERVPRO of Northern Summit County can help you get your home or business restored in no time.
5 Tips to Prepare for the next Northeast Ohio Storm
Storms can be an inconvenience, but also a danger. Knowing what to do can be of help to you and your family. It’s as the Boy Scouts say ‘Be Prepared’! Here are some tips to help you this winter:
Keep a close eye on the weather reports and warnings for winter storms
Sign up for the local warning system. Such as the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Equip your household to stay warm, install insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Educate yourself about freezing pipes and how to avoid them. Fit carbon monoxide and smoke alarms into your home.
Collect the necessary needs for the home in the case of no power. Be sure to include what each person requires, especially medication. And don’t overlook pets! Keep spare batteries, primarily for radios and flashlights. If the budget allows, keep soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and other household cleaning supplies.
Keep an emergency equipment kit for your car. Jumper cables, sand, flashlights, extra clothing, blankets, water, and food that will not go bad.
While storms can be daunting, look them right in the face and tell them that you are not worried because you, like a boy scout, are prepared.
Make sure you and your home are protected from the elements.
WHILE Northeast Ohio may not be in a major hurricane zone, we have all experienced some rough winds and storms.
Particularly during the tornado season, many of us find we have some damage caused to our properties – from a few missing roofing shingles to trees falling on our homes.
It is worth checking out your homeowner’s insurance policy before storm season to check exactly what is and is not covered in the event the weather brings significant damage to your property.
As a rule, a good policy should cover some common types of storm damage, usually hail, wind, fallen trees and lightening – but flooding and earthquake damage is usually excluded.
While earthquakes are not common in this area, flooding can be – if your home is particularly at risk it may be worth taking out extra and specific coverage. This tends to apply regardless of the cause of the flooding, be it a burst river or a burst water pipe in the basement.
As always with insurance, the detail of your policy is key – do not assume you are covered as you may be in for a shock when you try to make a claim. Look into the specific terms and conditions of your policy, and if you are not sure, talk to a broker or an agent. A review of your coverage is usually a good idea, then you can clarify exactly what you need and want.
Knowing the difference between a tornado and a hurricane could be crucial to your safety.
Natural disasters occur often and are almost completely out of our control. While some areas are more prone to certain forces of nature, we are all impacted in some way or another. When it comes to fires and floods, you can sometimes prepare for it, prevent it, and even control it at times. This is not the case in regards to the windy variety of natural disasters. Both hurricanes and tornadoes alike can be destructive and devastating. But, what are the main differences between the two?
While both of these phenomena are alike in that they both produce powerful and destructive swirling winds, they still have their differences. One of the biggest differentiation between the two is the size and time length. While tornadoes are usually no more than a few hundred feet wide, hurricanes can span up to hundreds of miles (in diameter). Additionally, while occasionally tornadoes can form over water (water spouts), they are mostly land prominent - unlike hurricanes. The energy that creates a hurricane comes from warm ocean waters, as opposed to tornadoes that form from powerful updrafts of wind that eventually twist as they rise.
Depending on what part of the country you live in, one might be of more concern than another. However, oftentimes a hurricane will impact hundreds of miles away (even other states). Both of these natural disasters can wreak havoc on homes and businesses alike. From debris caught in the wind to mass amounts of rain. Structures become susceptible to fire, storm damage, water problems, and more. If you find that a tornado or hurricane has impacted your home or business, give us a call, we can help you get back to normal in no time.
What You Need to Know About Sleet in Northern Summit County
Know how to prepare for a sleet storm in Northeast Ohio.
NOT rain nor snow, but an unpleasant mix of both – sleet is a type of weather we do not spend as much time considering as its wet cousins.
With neither the aesthetics of snow, nor the regeneration that rain can bring, sleet seems to be the worst of both worlds – cold, ice forming, slippery, and wet.
More accurately known as freezing rain, sleet is often quaintly called a ‘wintery mix’ by television weather forecasters, but sleet is not a winter wonderland for your home.
While many of us dread a storm bringing hail, which is noted for its ability to cause damage to your roofing and siding, sleet can be just as pernicious.
While the initial impact may not cause as much damage as a hailstorm, sleet’s smaller pellets are more prone to settle and build up onto your property – which is where the problems can really begin.
Since sleet needs cold weather to form its crystals, it means the settled sleet is much more likely to freeze solid into ice.
This settling sleet and ice are much more likely to penetrate under roofing shingles, especially in older roofs, than snow – which settles on top – or rain, which simply runs off the side.
And once inside the roof, when it starts to melt you can see water leaks into your home, more displaced damage to shingles and roofing tiles, and even pools of water forming that can refreeze into ice dams.
Water – and therefore ice – is also heavy. While your roof can withstand huge amounts of rain, as it runs down into guttering and is drained away, it was not designed to withstand large weights for sustained periods which is possible during a harsh winter. A regular pre-winter inspection of the state of your roof is highly advisable if you live in an area prone to harder winter weather.
And what is a problem for a roof is also a problem for the sides of your home. Whether your house is finished with traditional wood, or more modern plastic or vinyl, if it is older there are likely to be holes, cracks, or chips that sleet can get behind, causing similar problems for the inside of your property, which can become expensive to remedy.
While the weather is beyond our control, preparing for its impact is not – and prevention is better than a cure. Have your property inspected regularly to spot potential problem areas and fix them before they become a real problem.
Count on SERVPRO of Northern Summit County to inspect for potential problems and fix any damages to keep you and your wallet safe!
Make sure that you're ready for the harsh weather on its way this winter.
LEAVES are showing signs of turning and pumpkins are appearing on front porches – fall is definitely well on its way.
Which is the ideal time to think a little further ahead and make sure you take advantage of the last of the nice weather to give your home the once-over and ensure you are prepared for the harsh winter weather?
And given this is Northeast Ohio, that means making sure you – and your house – are prepared to withstand a snowstorm.
When the snow falls hard and fast, you need to be ready – make sure you have snow shovels on standby and a good supply of rock salt ready to grit your driveway. If you have pets, make sure you have a safe variety as regular salt can burn paws. Stock up on winter fuel if you rely on wood, coal, oil, or gas supplies to heat your home. Even if you usually use central heating, it is a good idea to have some supplies in case power goes down.
Make sure you have a ready supply of blankets and warm clothes in case the power does go out, along with suitable food supplies, flashlights, spare batteries, and candles in easy to find locations.
But while you need provisions, so does your home if it is to – literally – weather the storm.
Take the time to check your insulation to winterize your property – check insulation levels in attics, basements, and walls, and maybe consider plastic over your windows. Make sure any exposed pipes are lagged and insulated to prevent freezing – and maybe even leave a tap on dripping to help keep water moving in the pipes.
Have your heating systems professionally checked and serviced to make sure they are working properly, efficiently, and safely – you do not want to find out you had a faulty thermostat during a snowstorm.
Check for draughts and find where they are coming from – time for a little bit of caulking to seal them up – and get the roof checked for leaks or holes, and that it is up to bearing the weight of the snow.
But if the worst does happen and the winter weather finds its way into your home, your experts at SERVPRO of Northern Summit County are on hand throughout to help rescue and repair your property.
Winter storms bring a whole different set of problems from summer storms.
All storms are not the same – one of the joys of living in Northeast Ohio is the wide variety of our weather.
And while storms happen all year round, a summer storm is quite different from a winter one.
In the summer we have to deal with lightning, thunder, hurricanes, and tornadoes. But the winter brings ice, snow, and extreme cold.
Which is worse? On one hand, it is a matter of opinion – but on the other, the impact of damage can be more easily identified.
Both can cause catastrophe to a home or building – summer storms bring the risk of flooding or even in rarer cases complete devastation by a tornado or lightning hit.
But winter storms bring snow and ice – which lasts much longer than the storm itself, with huge numbers of homes affected at the same time.
Snow is heavy and turns to water slowly, finding its way into cracks and crevices in the fabric of your home.
The cold – which can be extreme in Northeast Ohio – causes pipes to burst and windows to crack.
And repairs can take much longer as roads are blocked and its harder to work outside.
But no matter which type of storm impacts you and your home, SERVPRO of Northern Summit County is on 24/7 standby to help you clean up the devastation caused by Mother Nature, identify the repairs needed, and get them underway fast and efficiently.
Storm waters entering your home could harm both your things and your health.
Some of us love a good storm, love watching the rain fall in torrents and lightning crack across the sky while the thunder rolls. Others of us might hate the storms and want to hide under the bed like our dogs when extreme weather rolls through. Regardless, storms are a part of our lives in Northeast Ohio whether we like it or not, and sometimes we have to deal with some adverse effects from the heavy rains that will inevitably befall us.
Some people might think that if they don’t live in flood plains, then they will never have to worry about flooding in their homes. However, these intense storms that dump tons of water in a short amount of time can cause damage to homes in all kinds of different situations.
One of the biggest risks to any home as a result of a storm is Category 3 Black Water backing up into living quarters. This is water, mainly sewage but also water from overflowing streams or lakes, that is highly contaminated and could affect the health of people in your home. There are three levels of black water damage that you could experience.
Level one originates inside the home and is contained to a small area. Most of the home, including the structure and porous material, are not affected.
Level two also originates inside the home, but a larger area is affected, including porous material, and structure must be inspected for contamination.
Level three comes from an outside source like a main sewage line or overflowing river or lake and causes greater health risks from contamination over a longer period of time.
CAT 3 Black Water contains many different kinds of bacteria, mold, and viruses that can affect your health. Diseases such as tetanus, hepatitis, and various kinds of infections, among other health issues, can be spread by exposure to black water. You should avoid direct skin contact with black water and even breathing in contaminated air could lead to illness.
If you experience flooding in your home, the most important thing to do is address the problem as quickly as possible. Call SERVPRO of Northern Summit County and we will be there anytime 24/7/365. Our highly-trained technicians know how to handle black water contamination and make your home safe again. Protect yourself and your family from health risks and know that SERVPRO will help return your home to normal.
SERVPRO of Northern Summit County has the expertise and the resources to handle your storm damage.
When a major storm passes close to the house, the home may suffer water damage that is difficult to repair. A certified professional will likely be needed to help prevent serious health or structural threats. Storm surges can carry pathogens and mold. The main reason a home is prone to water damage is because moisture is difficult to detect. Moisture can collect behind the walls, where mold and bacteria may multiply.
Professional restoration services can quickly identify what items in the home are compromised. Anything that is porous may need to be discarded such as mattresses, box springs, pillows and particleboard.
A family can prepare for professional cleaning by getting rid of these items before the technicians arrive, but record and itemize these items for insurance purposes. Technicians trained in this restoration field know how to find compromised areas and restore them.
SERVPRO of Northern Summit County has the expertise and the resources to handle your storm damage. If you need assistance call (330) 650-4486. We are open 7 days a week, 365 days a year including all major holidays.
Prepare And Prevent Flooding in Northern Summit County
Storm damage happens can happen at anytime in Northern Summit County. As winter starts to end, spring bring water damage and flooding. Flooding can cause more damage in the United States more than any other weather-related event.
March 13-19th is Flood Safety Awareness Week. We want to create awareness for the community. More than half of all flood related deaths result from vehicles being swept downstream. It is a good time to share awareness about flooding so that you can minimize potential flood damage and accelerate recovery efforts.
If you receive notifications that there is a flood warning here are some simple ways to prepare:
Check if your insurance covers flood damage. If not, find out how to get flood insurance.
Make an itemized list of personal property well in advance. Photograph or video the interior and exterior of your home.
Keep insurance and important documents in a safe deposit box.
Assemble a disaster supplies kit.
Find out where you can go if ordered to evacuate.
Make a keep-in-touch arrangement with relatives and friends.
After a flood hits you will want to also take precautions:
Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.
Even six inches of fast moving floodwater can knock you off your feet. Never try to walk, swim or drive through such swift water.
Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. STOP! Turn around and go another way.
Keep children from playing in floodwaters or near culverts.
Use flashlights, not lanterns or torches, flammables may be inside.
Do not handle live electrical equipment in wet areas.
Refer to Red Cross or Federal Emergency Management Agency web sites for ideas and examples of disaster plans and disaster kits.
It is important to prepare for a flooding disaster as soon as possible. If you get flooding in your building and need restoration call SERVPRO of Northern Summit County.
SERVPRO of Northern Summit County has the expertise and the resources to handle your business water damage. If you need assistance call (330) 650-4486. We are open 7 days a week, 365 days a year including all major holidays.
We know how devastating a storm and water disaster can be, but we are here to help!
Prevent Winter Storm Damage in Your House.
After a winter snow storm, temperatures can go up and down which causes melting and freezing. This temperature variation can cause snow or ice to melt and trickle into your house. This can cause damage on the way inside the cracks. Water damage is not fun for any home owner.
The good news, you can prevent water damage from snow melts by shoveling snow away from your house. Yes, it could be as simple as that.
It may also be necessary to shovel snow from areas with grass underneath. This can help the water from entering and flooding once it warms up.
Contact our team of professionals for more information about snow water damage to your home.
We know how devastating a storm and water disaster can be, but we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Portage County (330) 677-4483 to help get your home restored efficiently.
Five Things You Should Do if Your Property is Damaged From a Storm.
SERVPRO of Northern Summit County has the expertise and the resources to handle your home storm damage.
Five Things You Should Do if Your Property is Damaged From a Storm.
Homes can get damaged during storms, which leads to problems for home owners. It is important to be prepared and knowledgeable in case this should happen to your home. Here are some quick tips:
1) File a claim immediately: The faster you file and notify your insurance, the sooner you can get an agent to your property to assess the damage. Claims that aren't complicated usually don't take long to process.
2) Contact storm damage repair companies: Contact SERVPRO of Northern Summit County to help get your home restored efficiently and with care, just call (330) 650-4486.
3) Be prepared to pay out of pocket: There is usually always some sort of deductible with any home damage and an insurance company. It is important to know this deductible and plan for it.
4) Don't wait for more storms before you contact your insurance company: some problems will have different deductibles, so make sure to file as soon as the damage happens.
SERVPRO of Northern Summit County has the expertise and the resources to handle your home storm damage. If you need assistance call (330) 650-4486
Storms occur with little warning and can be devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion.
Storms occur with little warning and can be devastating, so you’ll need the company that you can trust to rise to the occasion. SERVPRO of Northern Summit County can handle any size disaster.
Should storm water begin to accumulate around your house, here are a few easy steps that may help protect your home:
Make sure all windows are closed tightly. Make sure to check windows in your basement area
Move valuables to higher ground
Continuously monitor the sump pump (if you have one) to verify that it is operating properly
Make sure to secure any outside furniture
Cover basement window wells to help divert water from pooling inside the well
Safety should always be your main focus when faced with storm water.
Do not walk through moving water, as even 6’ of water is enough force to knock you off your feet
Stay away for flood waters as it is contaminated and unhealthy and may pose health hazards
Storm and flood water damage can be very destructive. Immediate action is needed, and you need the company with storm damage experience. SERVPRO of Northern Summit County has the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster. If you need assistance with storm or flooding call 1-800-648-1212.
Prepare For a Windstorm in Northern Summit County.
Windstorm damage is covered on a standard homeowner's insurance policy.
Yes, windstorm damage is covered on a standard homeowner's insurance policy. But whose homeowner's insurance policy covers the loss?
First, it is important to understand what windstorm insurance policies cover. Windstorm insurance is a special type of property and casualty insurance designed to cover damages caused by high winds. Windstorm insurance may cover damages from hurricane-force winds, tornadoes, hail and other weather events.
A hypothetical tree falls on your house.
Scenario 1: your tree falls on your house. Your homeowner's policy will provide coverage up to your policy limits, after you pay the deductible. The coverage extends to cover damage to your main home, garage, shed or other additional buildings and structures such as a fence. If there is damage to the structure of the house, debris removal is also covered, up to policy limits.
Scenario 2: your tree falls on your neighbor's house. The basic rule is that the insurance policy of the property that was damaged pays for the loss.
Scenario 3: your neighbor's tree fell on your house. Your homeowner's insurance policy should pay for any damage per the property claim.
Please note that homeowners insurance usually won't cover a loss caused by negligence or a maintenance-related issue. So if the tree was rotting and ready to fall down before the storm, homeowners insurance likely would not cover the damage the tree caused to your home.
Always call your home owners insurance first and tell them what is going on. SERVPRO of Northern Summit County has the expertise and the resources to handle any size disaster. If you need assistance with wind or storage damage call 1-800-648-1212.
Can You Dry Hardwood Floors After A Water Damage in Northern Summit County?
The professionals at SERVPRO of Northern Summit County have saved hundreds of hardwood floors by using advanced drying equipment.
A very common question we receive at SERVPRO of Northern Summit County is, “Can I dry hardwood floor after water damage?” The only downfall off hardwood floors is that in the event of a flood or water overflow, hardwood floors cannot be easily taken out and dried like carpet can. This brings us to our question – "Can you dry hardwood floors in place, or does everything need to be ripped out and replaced?"
First, you need to recognize the many different factors that play into properly achieving a dry hardwood floor. Water damage can increase drastically if not taken care of properly, professionally, and in a timely manner. Here are some of the main considerations:
Response Time - Water damage can be greatly decreased depending on the response time to the problem. Time is of the essence when it comes to hardwood floor water damage – the moisture, temperature, and dust layer beneath a wet wood floor can provide an ideal environment for mold and many other problems.
Type of Wood Flooring - Before you can determine how to properly dry hardwood floor, you need to determine what type of wood flooring you have.
Amount Of Moisture - A flooded hardwood floor can have up to 40% moisture content and can retain well above the normal amount of moisture for weeks if left to dry on their own. Nails may begin to lift, glue may release causing separation between floor pieces, and tongue and groove floors often cup or buckle when moisture has been absorbed.
If you decide to attempt to dry and save hardwood floors in place SERVPRO of Northern Summit County has specialized drying equipment that forces airflow beneath the surface of the floor, allowing moisture to be released.
A restoration specialist can inspect the hardwood floor damage to determine the right plan of action for your home. They will work with you and your insurance carrier to decide the best option – drying or replacing the floor. The professionals at SERVPRO of Northern Summit County have saved hundreds of hardwood floors by using advanced drying equipment.
Tips to Help Prevent Summer Claims in Northern Summit County
Follow these tips to help prevent summer claims for your home.
In a recent show of data, Farmers Insurance states that more than 50% of flood claims get filed during the summer between June and August. With travel being increased during summertime for families due to vacations and breaks, the weather sometimes causes unplanned and unexpected troubles.
Add a little preparation, forethought, and precaution in your household to allow you to take on some of the disasters summer can bring.
Follow these tips to help prevent summer claims for your home:
Caution Around Water on Roadways: Although you may FEEL safe driving through water, bear in mind merely six inches of water can reach the bottom of most cars. Flood waters can be dangerous due to depth, flow, and also the unseen debris and possible downed power lines. Losing control of putting yourself in harm’s way out of convenience could be detrimental.
If in Doubt, Please Re-Route: Be wary of your surroundings and common driving routes. If you travel through underpasses, drainage canals, or similar spots, flash flooding can occur and you should plan alternative routes in case of an emergency.
Store Valuables Safely: Anything of value such as documents, photos, electronics, or the like need placed on shelves or high enough off the ground should water penetrate your home. Water wreaks havoc enough as is without taking valuable possessions down with any soaking. More irreplaceable items may be better kept in a safety deposit box, safe, or other location.
While these tips certainly provide a leg up on preventing summer claims, accidents and emergencies do happen. If you find yourself in that situation, count on SERVPRO’s extremely well-trained professionals to give you the support you need 24 hours a day, 7 days per week including weekends and holidays.
Floods, rainstorms and tornadoes can become massive water damage threats to businesses during the often-stormy spring and summer months. Facilities plagued with such water woes this season must take quick action.
Floods, rainstorms and tornadoes can become massive water damage threats to businesses during the often-stormy spring and summer months. Facilities plagued with such water woes this season must take quick action to control many possible problems, experts say.
You won’t see it emphasized on the nightly news when a disaster hits, but water damage can represent potentially huge disasters for businesses and building owners and operators.
Water damage can mean much more to a business than just wet and soggy carpets. There are other common, more significant problems businesses face when water wreaks havoc on property, such as indoor air quality problems. Mold and mildew grow rapidly in damp, humid environments, leaving behind an unpleasant smell that permeates floors, walls and ceilings, even after the water has been removed. It also can create health problems for employees.
Damage to the building’s structure and foundation also can be an issue. When water sits inside a building for a period of time, the walls, ceilings and floors absorb the water, which threatens the overall structural integrity of the building and creates an unsafe environment. Total reconstruction of the building often becomes the only option.
Another major threat to business is the loss of expensive equipment, which often can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to replace.
To minimize water damage, there are two critical steps that need to be taken:
Act fast to assess the situation; and
Control the environment within the building.
Act Fast and Call an Expert
The absolute first step to take is fast action. Damage resulting from water and flooding is very progressive. The longer the water flows or wet conditions are allowed to exist, the greater the recovery problem becomes. A water damage consultant must come in immediately to survey the situation.
In a typical scenario, a team of water damage recovery professionals is dispatched to the site to perform a thorough inspection and fully determine the extent of the damage. A disaster reclamation partner also will develop an intense restoration plan and determine which items are worth restoring and which are better replaced.
You can’t always save everything by drying, but you can save a tremendous amount. It’s not unusual to save between 30 and 70 percent of the cost needed to reconstruct a facility.
Controlling the Interior Environment
Another key in limiting water damage is to quickly control three conditions of a building’s atmosphere: relative humidity, temperature and air circulation. Fast, effective action at this point will generally confine the damage to the area that was directly affected by the water damage event.
The most effective way to control these conditions in a high-moisture environment, especially a large facility, is to employ professional disaster drying that combines air movers with desiccant dehumidifiers.
Disaster drying often eliminates the need to rip out and replace walls, carpet, floor covering, hardwood floors and the building structure, which can be a huge expense. On top of that, you preclude the odors and staining caused by mold and mildew. These problems can come back to haunt you weeks later in a superficially dried building.
The Desiccant Way
When a facility has been severely water damaged, you need high volume desiccant dehumidifiers. Some larger desiccant dehumidifiers can pull 800 gallons of water out of a building in one day, compared to the typical small refrigeration units that remove about five gallons a day.
Many people are surprised that “solid” materials such as concrete and hard woods absorb moisture. But they do and rather quickly.
Getting the water back involves a phenomenon called migration. Migration is the tendency for water molecules to move toward a low vapor pressure. When a room is filled with very dry air, which has low vapor pressure, trapped water migrates outward and is evaporated from the surface by the dry air. As the air in the room fills with water vapor, we expel it. We then replace it with more dry air and the process continues.
It’s also essential to be sure the equipment being used is sized right. Inappropriately sized drying equipment can lead to insufficient drying and long-term problems with the building. Only large-volume dehumidifiers could provide the massive drying power needed to dry the space quickly and thoroughly.
Best Defense: A Disaster Recovery Plan
To minimize damage and costs, companies need to think ahead about what to do in a water damage event and contact a water damage expert to create a Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP).
A DRP can limit the extent of water damage occurrences by defining and prioritizing the recovery of areas within a facility and stating immediate next steps. Proper planning and fast action are most certainly the best defense to preventing a catastrophic water damage event.
After the Disaster: Providing Restoration Solutions, Not Suggestions
All of these will occur during the course of a year. All will cause major damage to dwellings and buildings. What is one of the major sources of damage- WATER. Water damage is caused by a variety of things including plumbing leaks, burst pipes and broken hoses, moisture ingress within a structure, clogged toilets, foundation cracks and leaking roofs. While the symptoms will be addressed by plumbers, roofers, foundation specialists and other tradesmen and tradeswomen, clean-up and remediation specialists have some of the toughest and potentially dangerous jobs to tackle to ensure a safe and functional dwelling or building. Before a building is considered safe, someone must disinfect affected areas, remove damaged or mold/mildew- contaminated items, properly dispose of the water-damaged items and then review and inspect areas to ensure that they’re safe.
So, what can we recommend to residents and occupants of the buildings that have significant (or even small levels of) water damage?
Stop the flow of water.
Turn off the power.
Assess the conditions. Is it safe to stay in the building?
Look for electrical hazards and “slip and fall” areas. Stay away from compromised areas.
Get away if possible, but if you must stay, then only do activities that are absolutely necessary.
Try not to lift wet materials. Water will add significant weight to any material that absorbs.
What can you recommend an owner do after flooding?
Gather items from floors and low lying areas.
Remove any excess water by mopping or blotting up the water with towels or absorbent material.
Remove wet rugs and carpeting that can easily be removed.
Remove any wet upholstery, cushions, pillows, blankets and dry them out
Wipe excess water from furniture, cabinets, accessories
Turn AC ON for maximum drying during the summer
What should you recommend an owner NOT do after flooding?
Don’t use household appliances, televisions or any other electronic devices
Don’t leave wet fabrics in place. Hang luxury items such as leather goods, furs and dresses.
Do not use a vacuum cleaner (unless it’s a wet-dry vac) to remove moist or water from a room.
Don’t leave colored items on a wet floor.
Don’t turn on ceiling fans or lights if the ceiling is wet.
Stay out of rooms where the ceiling is sagging.
After a homeowner or building occupant has taken the requisite steps to ensure his/her safety, then its time for the professional to come in and do their work. Professionals will use the following steps to assess and restore property following water damage:
Initial contact and pre-inspection survey
Inspection and water damage assessment
Water removal and extraction
Drying and dehumidification
Cleaning and sanitizing
Restoration
A fast response is crucial to prevent long term damage, sick-building syndrome and irreversible damage. While professionals are responsible and knowledgeable, sometimes little things that might be missed become critical to the successful remediation/restoration after water damage or flooding.
Mold and Mildew are the ENEMIES. Protect yourself and building inhabitants by using the proper protective gear including body suits, gloves and masks or respirators. Contain the mold/mildew before trying to disinfect. Wrap your booties, pants and gloves with tape to ensure a good and proper seal of your body suit.
Use environmentally-friendly antimicrobial and antibacterial treatments when you can. These will leave less of an impact to the inhabitants once the job is complete.
Properly dispose of refuse. Bag the molded, damaged and soiled items in a thick plastic bag and twist the opening to form a goose-neck then seal the opening tightly with duct tape to ensure that the contents are secure and will not escape during transport to the landfill, preventing further contamination.
Seal off the contaminated environment from the area that is not contaminated or is being used by the building inhabitants. Hang poly-sheeting, build airflow containment units and properly seal them off with strong polyethylene or cloth duct tape suitable for use in damp, moist environments. Innovative containment systems with pre-inserted zippers and doors are now available for ease of use.
Customers are now used to fast, reliable and almost instantaneous service. The e-commerce model used to obtain goods is now being applied to service as well. By offering easy “one-stop” access to water damage cleanup; easy contact, assessment, water removal, drying, cleaning, sanitizing and restoration; you will enhance your relationship with your customers and attract them to your business. Remember these tips when communicating potential water leakage and flooding issues with your customers and you will become their one-stop source providing solutions, not suggestions.
What Ice Storm Accumulations Mean and How to Stay Safe
Just a thin coating of ice can result in a travel nightmare, and heavier amounts will severely damage trees and power lines.
Here's how to prepare for an ice storm and stay safe.
You may hear forecasters talk about ice accumulations this week and wonder, "Will I lose power, or will the roads just be slippery?"
Just a thin coating of ice can result in a travel nightmare, while heavier amounts will severely damage trees and power lines. Strong winds can add extra force to already weighted down tree branches and power lines, increasing the likelihood of significant damage.
Ice Storm Facts
Ice can increase the weight of branches by 30 times.
A 1/2-inch accumulation on power lines can add 500 pounds of extra weight.
An ice storm in 2009 centered from northern Arkansas to the Ohio Valley knocked out power to 1.3 million.
In 1998, an ice storm in northern New York and northern New England damaged millions of trees and caused $1.4 billion in damage. Accumulations were as much as three inches thick!
These ice accumulations are caused by freezing rain. Freezing rain is a result of snow falling through an above-freezing warm layer in the atmosphere above the surface of the earth, which melts the snowflakes into rain. The rain drops then move into a thin layer of below-freezing air right near the surface of the earth, allowing them to freeze on contact to the ground, trees, cars and other objects.
While accumulations of sleet can also make roads treacherous, sleet does not accumulate on trees and powerlines, so ice events with more sleet than freezing rain pose a greatly reduced threat for tree damage or power outages.
Typical impacts of "crippling" ice accumulations - one-half inch or more.
Be Prepared
Avoid driving on icy roads for your safety and the safety of emergency personnel.
Be sure to charge cell phones and laptops ahead of time. Make sure you have several ways to communicate with others. Consider landline phones, social media, and texting.
Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pets. Plan for pets to come inside, and store adequate food and water for them.
Children should never play around ice-covered trees; they may be injured if a branch breaks under the weight of the ice and falls on them.
Think about safe alternate power sources you could use if you lose heat, such as a fireplace, wood/coal stove or portable space heaters. However, be sure to exercise caution:
Follow manufacturers instructions when using portable space heaters and other devices.
Never use portable generators, camp stoves and grills inside your home or garage; they should only be used outside. Keep them at least 20 feet away from your home's windows, doors and vents to prevent deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
Use flashlights during power outages instead of candles to prevent the risk of fire, and keep plenty of extra batteries on-hand.
Before the Power Goes Out: Food Safety
Make sure you have appliance thermometers in your refrigerator and freezer.
Check to ensure that the freezer temperature is at or below 0 degrees and the refrigerator is at or below 40 degrees.
In case of a power outage, the appliance thermometers will indicate the temperatures in the refrigerator and freezer to help you determine if the food is safe.
Freeze containers of water for ice to help keep food cold in the freezer, refrigerator, or coolers in case the power goes out. If your normal water supply is contaminated or unavailable, the melting ice will also supply drinking water.
Have coolers on hand to keep refrigerated food cold if the power will be out for more than four hours.
Purchase or make ice cubes in advance and store in the freezer for use in the refrigerator or in a cooler. Freeze gel packs ahead of time for use in coolers.
Store food on shelves that will be safely out of the way of contaminated water in case of flooding.
When the Power Goes Out: Food Safety
Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature.
The refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened.
A full freezer will keep the temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full) if it is unopened.
Buy dry or block ice (or freeze containers of water) to keep the refrigerator as cold as possible if the power is going to be out for a prolonged period of time.
If you plan to eat refrigerated or frozen meat, poultry, fish or eggs while it is still at safe temperatures, it's important that each item is thoroughly cooked to the proper temperature to assure that any foodborne bacteria that may be present is destroyed. However, if at any point the food was above 40 degrees for two hours or more — discard it.
For infants, try to use prepared, canned baby formula that requires no added water. When using concentrated or powdered formulas, prepare with bottled water if the local water source is potentially contaminated.
Lack of flood insurance heaps misery on homeowners slammed by Hurricane Florence
The drenching rains and massive flooding caused by Florence are expected to inflict a high financial toll on homeowners in North Carolina and other states, as only a small percentage are covered by flood insurance that could help offset the costs of rebuilding their damaged homes.
An estimated quarter of a million homes in North Carolina are projected to be affected by Florence, which has caused flash flooding and record rain amounts across the state, according to CoreLogic, a property analytics company.
Estimates from insurance analysts and actuaries show an alarmingly high percentage of homeowners – both in coastal towns and those far inland – that are underinsured for a water-driven natural disaster as destructive as Florence.
Only 10 percent to 20 percent of coastal homeowners in the hard-hit eastern part of North Carolina, for example, have coverage through the government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and only 1 percent to 3 percent of homes in inland counties have flood policies, according to estimates from John Rollins, an actuary at consulting firm Milliman. Statewide, roughly 3 percent of the homes in North Carolina have flood coverage and 8 percent of homeowners are covered in South Carolina, Rollins said.
“Obviously, that leaves a lot of people uninsured,” Rollins told USA TODAY.
The numbers of those covered are low, he said, because people think that because their home isn't in a high-risk zone designated by the government that there's "zero risk" of a flood. "But that's not true," Rollins says. Many also don't realize their basic homeowners policy doesn't cover flood damage, while others overestimate the disaster aid they will get from the government.
Unfortunately, standard homeowners insurance won’t cover any flooding-related issues. The estimated insured losses from Florence are in the range of $3 billion to $5 billion, according to CoreLogic. Goldman Sachs, a Wall Street bank, said they could go as high as $10 billion to $20 billion.
Insurers should have no problem being able to pay out claims to policy holders because the industry has cash reserves of roughly half a trillion dollars, according to Matt Carletti, senior insurance analyst at JMP Securities.
The problem for homeowners is that insured losses generally are only about one-third of total economic losses, which puts them on the hook financially for a more sizable part of their home rebuilds if losses are due to uncovered flood costs, Carletti said.
To get flood coverage, homeowners must buy a separate policy. Most purchase this extra coverage from the government-backed NFIP program, which is designed to restore your home to its preflood condition and replace your possessions. NFIP policies, which carry average premiums of about $600 to $700 a year but can run into the thousands of dollars in high-risk zones, cover up to $250,000 for a home's structure and up to $100,000 for personal possessions.
Homeowners not covered for flood damage can seek federal disaster assistance in the form of grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency or apply for a loan from the Small Business Administration, said Steve Bowen, meteorologist for Aon Benfield's Impact Forecasting division. FEMA may provide up to $33,000 in assistance for home repair, although the average for Superstorm Sandy in 2012 was about $8,000 and roughly $7,100 for Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
At the end of July, there were 134,306 active NFIP flood policies in place in North Carolina, Bowen said. That's only 3 percent of the estimated 4.62 million housing units in the state, he said, citing U.S. Census Bureau data.
Damage to homes caused by floods tend to be costly. The estimated potential loss for a 1,000-square-foot, single-story home with possessions worth $20,000 that is inundated with just 1 inch of interior water can run as high as $11,000, according to FEMA data, and the estimated loss for 5 inches of water climbs to more than $18,000.
Given the fact that many parts of North Carolina have received rain totals of 2 feet or more, many homeowners will be facing high rebuild costs they may not be able to afford.
“You are looking at a lot of homeowners that will have out-of-pocket costs that could easily be five figures, or more than $10,000,” said Cathy Seifert, an insurance analyst at CFRA, a Wall Street research firm.
Americans' flood risk is far greater than previously thought, study finds
Storm water flooded the streets with and vehicles.
A new study led by the University of Bristol states that 41 million Americans are at risk from flooding rivers, according to phys.org. That’s more than three times than the current estimate of 13 million people.
The study is based on a new high-resolution model that maps flood risk across the entire continental United States, whereas the existing regulatory flood maps produced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) cover about 60% of the continental U.S.
The estimate of 41 million does not include the millions of additional Americans that are at risk of coastal flooding.
The increase in numbers of those at risk is a result of the expanded coverage of the map combined with its ability to estimate flooding on small streams—something that wasn’t adequately captured in previous flood-risk models, according to the study’s researchers. The study predicts that more than 60 million Americans may be vulnerable to a 100-year flood by 2050.
“Because climate change may cause so-called ’100-year’ floods to occur more frequently, even more people may be exposed to flooding in the future. All of this highlights the critical need for comprehensive floodplain and flood risk management planning,” Oliver Wing, the lead researcher behind the study and a Ph.D. student at the University of Bristol’s School of Geographical Sciences, said in a statement.
Beautiful Spring... It can also bring major storm activity and being prepared to protect yourself, your home and contents is important.
Spring-
Green grass, colorful flowers, relaxing rain showers and distant, whispering rumbles of thunder. But it isn't always this peaceful. Consider the notes below, Northeast Ohio, and take to safe steps when dangerous weather is predicted for Summit County, Portage County and/or Canton.
Tornadoes- Spring can be the peak season for tornado activity. Tornadoes occur mostly on warm spring days between 3:00 and 9:00 p.m. However, tornadoes can occur anywhere, at any time of the year, at any time of the day.
The Red Cross has safety steps people should take now to be ready if a tornado warning is issued for someone’s neighborhood:
Download the free Red Cross tornado app for mobile devices. The tornado app puts everything you need to know to stay safe in a tornado at your fingertips. The app can be downloaded from the iTunes or Google Play stores by searching for American Red Cross.
Know your community’s warning system.
Pick a safe room in your home where family members can gather if a tornado is headed your way. This should be a basement, storm cellar or interior room on the lowest floor with no windows.
Prepare for strong winds by removing diseased and damaged limbs from trees.
Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile.
Know the tornado danger signs – dark, often greenish clouds, a wall cloud, cloud of debris, large hail, a funnel cloud or a roaring noise.
Thunderstorms- Thunderstorms are most likely to happen in the spring and summer, during the afternoon and evening. However, like tornadoes, they can happen anywhere, at any hour of the day. Every thunderstorm produces lightning, which kills more people every year that tornadoes or hurricanes.
The Red Cross has steps you can take if a thunderstorm is predicted for your area:
If thunder roars, go indoors. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger from lightning.
Watch for storm signs like darkening skies, flashes of lightning or increasing winds. Postpone any outdoor activities. Many people who are struck by lightning are not where it is raining.
Take shelter in a substantial building or a vehicle with the windows closed. Shutter windows and close outside doors securely. Stay away from windows.
Flooding-Spring can be a time of year for flooding. Communities in the Midwest and south have already seen floodwaters inundate neighborhoods. Snow melt and heavy spring rains fill rivers and streams and flooding can occur. Flash floods occur suddenly when water rises rapidly along a stream or low-lying area. People should be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice and head for higher ground when a flood or flash flood warning is issued.
Other safety steps include:
Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
Heed this advice as the Spring weather begins ! Stay safe, Northeast Ohio !
Storm Damage ? Call SERVPRO of Northern Summit County at our 24/7 Emergency Service line - 330-650-4486 or Request Help Online
The 2017 Hurricane Season was a brutal one. Seventeen named storms struck the United States causing a record-setting $200 billion in damage.
Much of this damage occurred not from high winds or storm surges, but from extended heavy rains that triggered major flooding.
In an effort to facilitate prompt post-inspection advance payments to policyholders, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) published an outline of steps, serving as guidance for handling flood losses.
Report the loss to your insurance agent or the insurance carrier, who will in turn assign an adjusting firm who provides an adjuster to assist you with presenting the support for your loss.
The adjuster inspects the property (scoping visit) and may ask if you wish to request an advance payment from your insurer; the adjuster will send you a detailed room-by-room unit-cost estimate of damage and a proof of loss form. If you agree, the proof of loss form should be signed to and sworn to, and upon your insurer's review and agreement, the loss is settled.
If you do not agree, you should work with your adjuster to find a dollar amount for the covered loss that can be agreed on. Also, working with your general contractor is helpful.
If you are unable to reach an agreement with the adjuster, you should contact your adjuster's supervisor by calling the adjusting firm.
The supervisor should work with you to find a dollar amount for the covered loss that can be agreed on.
If you are unable to reach an agreement with the adjuster's supervisor, you should contact your insurance carrier's claims department to discuss the amount difference or coverage issue with the claim examiner.
If you are unable to reach an agreement with the claims examiner, you should complete a proof of loss form for the total amount you are requesting (the disputed amount plus any additional amount), and then send the signed and sworn-to proof of loss form with documentation to support the additional amount you are requesting, directly to the insurance carrier claim examiner.
If the insurer agrees with your documentation, they will pay the amount you are requesting; or they may provide the adjusting firm with their recommendation which may lead to an additional payable amount and a new Proof of Loss. If the insurer disagrees, they will issue payment for any undisputed amount, and a written denial letter will be sent to you fully explaining the reasons for the disallowance (denial) of your claim or any portion of your claim.
If you agree with the denial or no longer dispute the decision, the loss is settled.
For any denial of payment, in whole or in part, which you are disputing, three options remain:
You may send an amended Proof of Loss with supporting documentation back to the claim examiner; see STEP 8
You may submit a formal Appeal to FEMA
A written appeal letter must be sent to FEMA within 60 days of your insurer's denial letter, along with a copy of the denial letter and the documentation you have to support your appeal.
You may file a lawsuit against your insurer
A lawsuit must be filed within one year of your insurer's first written denial letter and only in U.S. District Court in the district where the property is located at the time of the loss
However, once you file a lawsuit, you may no longer appeal your claim to FEMA or file an amended Proof of Loss with your insurer.
Storm or water damage ? Call SERVPRO of Northern Summit County's 24/7 Emergency Service line - 330-650-4486 or Request Help Online
There are dangers posed by wet or flooded basements, so it's important to call a flood damage professional like SERVPRO of Northern Summit County.
Well, folks, Punxsutawney Phil has seen his shadow, predicting 6 more weeks of winter. While we have trusted the Pennsylvania groundhog for countless years, additional weather-predicting rodents have called for an early Spring this year, 2018. That being said, it is never too soon to begin preparing for the back and forth weather that Spring is.
The most severe of storms Spring can bring are thunderstorms. When warm, moist air collides with cool, dry air, thunderstorms can bring lightning, tornadoes and flooding, and if not properly prepared, this can cause extensive damage to your home or business.
Below are 5 ways to prepare your home for storm damage that can cost you hundreds, even thousands, of dollars, if not kept on mind:
Clean your gutters. Clear any debris from your gutters to make sure all the rain water can easily flow off your roof away from your home. When water can't get through your gutters, it pools on your roof and around your house. For further information on this subject, refer to our blog post, "Rain Gutters and Water Problems."
Trim your trees. Some of the worst storm damage is caused by falling trees. A healthy, sturdy tree is unlikely to topple in high winds, but one with dead limbs, or disproportionate growth might. Spring is the perfect time to contact an arborist to evaluate your trees, and if you’ve got large trees on your property, you should have them evaluated yearly. Maintaining them will help you protect both your property and the tree itself.
Back up your sump pump. When heavy rains come, sump pumps can get overloaded. A flooded basement can cause all sorts of damage to your contents, and when water covers wiring or electric appliances, things get dangerous. Make sure your sump pump has a battery backup just in case the electricity goes out. You might also consider installing a second, battery operated pump that will come on if the main one fails.
Gather emergency supplies. American Red Cross recommends keeping a three-day supply of food and water for your family, and a seven-day supply of any medications. You might also add a battery operated radio, and a car adapter for your cell phone.
Grade your yard. If water pools around your home, your foundation is in jeopardy. Ensuring that your yard slopes away from your home will keep rain water from sitting by your foundation and causing damage. Click here for a YouTube tutorial, provided by "This Old House," on how to grade your home. Most lawn companies, however, offer this service.
As we get closer to the rainy season, consider these five steps to keep your home and family safe.
Do you have water problems ? Call SERVPRO of Northern Summit County for help- 330-650-4486
We have the storm damage restoration experience and specialized equipment to restore your home or business back to pre-storm condition.
When a major storm passes close to the house, the home may suffer water damage that is difficult to repair.
There are many things a family can do to begin repairing any destruction, but a certified professional will likely be needed to get rid of any serious health or structural threats. Contaminated storm surges or floods can carry pathogens and become a breeding ground for mold. If allowed to fester, these mold spores can spread throughout the building and become even more difficult to remove. In many cases, governmental agencies could condemn the structure if the microbial threat is too great. The main reason a home is sensitive to water damage is because moisture is difficult to detect once the floods recede. Standing liquids can encourage microbial growth within 24 hours and can saturate all kinds of textiles and seep through drywall. Moisture may collect behind the walls, where mold and bacteria may multiply out of sight.
Professional restoration services can quickly identify what items in the home are compromised by water damage. Normally, anything that is porous may need to be discarded if it has come in contact with contaminated fluids. These items, like mattresses, box springs, pillows and particle board, trap more moisture than other materials and foster the growth of microbes.
A family can prepare for professional cleaning by getting rid of these items before the technicians arrive, but be sure to properly record and itemize the items for insurance purposes prior to disposing. Once professionals arrive at the building, they will be able to track down any pockets of excess moisture and remove them.
It’s important for a family to hire professionals that are certified through a reputable organization. Technicians trained in this area know how to find compromised areas and do what it takes to restore them.
Flood damage in your home or business? Call SERVPRO of Northern Summit County today at our 24/7 Emergency Service Line - (330) 650-4486 or at our Online Help Line.
We might be in Ohio, away from all the severe hurricane damage to trailer parks in Florida, Georgia and Texas, but this does not change how the events have changed our perspective on these homes' insurance coverage.
That perspective being: this is important!
Enlightened by Property Casualty 360's article, Mobile homes — A unique insurance exposure, a mobile home serves as both a home and a vehicle. When on the road, authorities treat it as a vehicle, and once settled down in a trailer park, it becomes a home.
Because of the portable and lightweight nature of mobile homes, wind is a significant hazard! Hurricanes and tornadoes, especially, can cause significant damage to mobile homes with the high winds easily flipping, uplifting and damaging the home.
Strap-downs and straps are required to offer stability from these cases, and some newer models use frame anchors tied to the chassis. Some carriers may require a particular type of tie-down for a specific part of the country. Wind zone ratings will indicate how much wind a mobile home can withstand.
With all this in consideration, is the part-vehicle part-home eligible for homeowner's insurance? Coverage is offered for when the mobile home is on the move, covering collision, collision defined as it is in the auto policy.
"As long as the collision happens while the vehicle is being transported there is coverage," Property Casualty 360's article reads. "Not covered is a loss caused by the home making contact with the transportation vehicle that results in damage to the home unless the transport vehicle was in an accident. The coverage applies for 30 days from the effective date on the endorsement. Coverage also includes upset of the home while it is in transit or stranding or sinking if the home is on a licensed ferry line."
Mobile homes require their own coverage needs, meaning its policy will be different from a homeowner's policy. There are carriers that specialize in mobile homes and the coverages they need: HomeInsuranceWeb.com
Do you have storm damage? Call SERVPRO of Northern Summit County at 330-650-4486
In the summer months, when severe weather is most prevalent, property carriers see an increase in claims for lightning damage to HVAC equipment, and most often to the compressor.
HVAC compressor damage due to lightning is commonly misdiagnosed. More often than not, an HVAC claim that is originally reported as damaged by lightning is ultimately found to have suffered damage due to some other cause of loss.
No matter the time of year, one of the most common culprits of compressor failure is mechanical damage due to age-related wear and tear. Nearly 43% of all compressors (regardless of how the damage is initially reported) fail due to this cause of loss.
Considered the “heart” of the HVAC system, the compressor is not only critical to proper system function, but can often be impossible to repair and expensive to replace. Moreover, without understanding the root cause of compressor failure, the simple act of replacing this component may not ultimately resolve the overarching issue. When handling HVAC claims, it is critical to understand what caused the compressor to fail before agreeing on a scope of repair for settlement.
No region is safe from flooding. All 50 states are subject to flash floods.
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, it is important for consumers to be aware of the warning signs of a flood damaged vehicle. If you are in the market to buy a used vehicle, be sure to inspect it carefully.
The following tips on filing a claim will help those with flooded vehicles after a storm:
Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible. Have your policy readily available and find out whether the damage is covered under the terms of your policy and how long you have to file a claim.
Your automobile insurance policies cover flooding if you have purchased comprehensive coverage. If you only have liability coverage, your vehicle is not covered for flooding.
Minimize your losses and document the damage. Take photos of any damage and then make whatever reasonable temporary repairs that are needed.
Remember that flooding is generally not covered under standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Flood insurance is a separate policy through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program and some private insurers.
Ask for identification from any agents, adjusters or contractors. Do not sign any contracts for repairs until you have been instructed to do so by your adjuster and you have called the Better Business Bureau in your area.
Don’t be afraid to file a claim. Storms are considered “Acts of Nature” and an insurance company cannot cancel, refuse to renew or increase the amount of a premium on a homeowners policy based solely on this type of incident.
Do you have storm damage? Contact our SERVPRO franchise at (330) 650-4486 or request help online.
A damaged home protected under a roof tarp until further repair is put into action.
Roof damage can be caused by heavy rains, winds or falling debris. To reduce the possibility of even more damage, some may use a roof tarp, offering a quick solution and a gap of time until better weather permits a safe inspection and repair.
It seems like a good, and cheap, way to quickly cover the holes in the roof, stop the water leak, and prevent rodents from entering the home or business through those holes, although we do not recommend this as a permanent solution to the problem.
It will wear out over time.
It is only a temporary fix, and can cause more problems as time passes.
If the roof has water damage, mold could be growing in the affected areas.
Wind can move the tarp, leaving spaces uncovered and the roof will leak again.
If not installed properly, it could hold pools of standing water, aka, mosquitoes.
The tarp can increase the heat inside your home or business. Heat and moisture trapped under the tarp may cause mold and other damage inside your property.
Don’t wait for more damage to occur in your home or business! Our 24/7 Emergency Service can be reached at (330) 650-4486, or request help online.
Floods can be unpredictable and cause a lot of damage. Stay informed and prepared as flood season approaches!
March 13-19 is Flood Safety Awareness Week. According to the National Weather Service, "Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other severe weather related hazard. The main reason is people underestimate the force and power of water. More than half of all flood related deaths result from vehicles being swept downstream. Of these, many are preventable." As flood season approaches, now is a great time to review such topics as the dangers of flooding, driving through water, and flood insurance. Additional resources are available at http://www.weather.gov/okx/FloodAwarenessWeek2016.
24/7 Emergency Service
Protect Your Home from Water Damage
