Recent Water Damage Posts
Ready for Fall? Preparing Your Home | SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex
9/3/2024 (Permalink)
Safeguarding your home from water damage is easy this Fall with these insights from SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex!
As fall settles in, homeowners in Pewaukee and Sussex need to be proactive in preparing their homes for the season’s unique challenges. The cooler weather and increased precipitation can bring about potential water damage issues if proper precautions aren’t taken.
SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is here to provide essential tips to help you protect your property and prevent water damage this fall.
Inspect and Clean Gutters and DownspoutsFall is a prime time for leaves and debris to clog your gutters and downspouts. When these essential drainage systems become blocked, water can overflow and cause damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. To prevent such issues, it’s crucial to inspect and clean your gutters and downspouts before the peak of the fall leaf drop.
Ensure that water is effectively directed away from your home’s foundation by keeping these systems clear. Regular maintenance will help avoid water pooling and potential damage, keeping your home safe and secure throughout the fall season.
Check for Roof and Siding IssuesThe fall weather can be particularly tough on your home’s exterior. Heavy rains and strong winds can exacerbate existing problems with your roof and siding. Take the time to thoroughly inspect these areas for any signs of damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles and check for cracks or gaps in your siding.
Addressing these issues promptly can prevent water from seeping into your home and causing further damage. Timely repairs will help maintain the structural integrity of your home and prevent more costly issues down the road.
Watch for Freezing Temperatures and Frozen PipesAs temperatures drop, the risk of frozen pipes increases, which can lead to significant water damage if not properly managed. To protect your plumbing system, insulate pipes in unheated areas such as basements and crawl spaces. Keep garage doors closed if water supply lines are present, and during particularly cold spells, let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing and reduce the risk of freezing.
By monitoring weather forecasts and taking these preventive measures, you can safeguard your home against the potential damage caused by frozen pipes. By following these tips, you can help prevent water damage and ensure your home remains in excellent condition throughout the fall season. SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is here to assist with any water damage prevention or recovery needs you may have. If you require professional help or have concerns about potential water damage, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Our experienced team is ready to support you in keeping your home safe and dry this fall. Reach out to SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex today to learn how we can help protect your property.
Tips to Avoid a Smelly Situation After Water Damage | SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex
5/1/2024 (Permalink)
Trust SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex to provide comprehensive services for a full recovery for all your water damage restoration needs.
You come home from work after a long day only to discover your kitchen floor is flooded or your carpet is soaked through. Maybe you left a window open and a storm blew through or your old dishwasher finally gave out on you.
Either way, cleaning up the mess becomes your priority. A bucket, a mop and some towels can tackle the visible water, but that is unfortunately not always going to solve your problem.
Dealing with water disasters completely is crucial to avoiding things like mold growth, stinky odors and rot. Our team explains below how to handle a water disaster from start to finish.
Tackling Water Leaks QuicklyThe trouble with water is that when it flows, it really flows. Once it gets out of your pipes or leaks out of your appliances, it can flow down onto your floors and will leak under your floorboards, behind your walls and can even get into your ceiling. It can get into the tiniest cracks and crevices, which can be really hard to remove on your own.
If you discover a water leak at home, your first instinct will be to stop the flow of water and clean up the mess. While that will certainly take care of the visible water, the water that has already leaked behind your walls will continue to cause you problems. Without the proper air movement, that lingering moisture can lead to further damage and complications.
It can start to degrade structural supports, cause metal to rust and can even lead to serious mold infestations. In fact, a few mold spores can grow into an entire infestation in as little as 24–48 hours.
Stopping the StinkYou need to keep a close eye on how your home smells in the days after your initial water disaster. Mold commonly gives off an earthy or musty smell, so if one of these unpleasant smells is noticeable in your home, it’s time to do some investigating. That’s where we come in!
Our team is trained to get into those hard-to-reach areas to identify mold infestations and tackle them with confidence. We will remove the residual water and moisture and then tackle your mold remediation. Afterward, we can rebuild your home by replacing floorboards, hanging new drywall or addressing any other structural issues that you may have encountered as a result.
Finally, our odor removal specialists will secure the area by turning off vents and shutting off your HVAC system. We will filter the air in the affected area to remove those stubborn particles and then we will use special deodorizers to make sure the air is fresh and clean. We are here to help you recover from any sort of water disaster day or night.
Don’t ignore signs of a water leak. Contact SERVPRO® for a full recovery.
A Single Team, Tackling Damage With Confidence | SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex
2/1/2024 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!
We are all familiar with the adage of “when it rains, it pours” and have heard it at least once when it comes to unfortunate life situations. As far as cliches go, this one is especially true in regard to home disasters and unexpected damage situations.
Whether a strong storm came through and flooded your basement or knocked out power or a dishwasher leak started while you were out of the house, it can be really frustrating to figure out where to start during the cleanup process.
That’s where SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex comes into play! We are here to help tackle any sort of home damage no matter how large or extensive it is.
The Toll of DisastersDisasters can occur in many forms, but they can all be damaging in their own way. Even when you are expecting them, you can’t always control the outcome, so you could be dealing with some serious repercussions in a short amount of time.
Heavy rain can infiltrate your home and lead to flooding, which will warp your walls and floors but can also spark mold growth. High wind can leave your home without power, but it can also tear off shingles or siding with ease. Fires can be extinguished, but soot, smoke and extensive amounts of fire and water damage can be left behind to deal with.
Disasters should always be addressed and evaluated as quickly as possible to avoid compounding damage from setting in. The longer damage lingers, the worse your situation could become.
With any physical toll that your home takes, you will most likely experience a mental toll as well. You deserve to get back to your regular life quickly, which is why you deserve a team that will help get you there.
Total Restoration at Your FingertipsOur team is available 24⁄7 to respond to your home disaster, and we will always answer the phone no matter what day it is. We will immediately start pulling together our resources to help you recover right away.
Our team is composed of certified experts who are highly trained and capable of taking care of your home damage from start to finish. We have years of experience and are not afraid of any sort of project, no matter the scale.
When your roof is peeled off in a storm, we will quickly arrive to tarp over it to protect your belongings and we will get to work drying out your space immediately. If you suffer a flood, we will prioritize removing standing water while drying out your fragile possessions and belongings as quickly as possible.
Total restoration is exactly what we offer! You only will be working with us during your entire recovery period, which can help reduce your stress significantly if you aren’t having to work with multiple companies and contracts.
Our team is ready to help take your home from dreary and damaged to bright and restored in no time at all! Call us as soon as the rain comes pouring in or a house fire starts in your kitchen and we will take care of you.
Have you experienced a disaster and need restorations? Make one call to our office to start recovery fast.
Water Leak? Check These Areas First | SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex
1/2/2024 (Permalink)
Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.
Whether you realize it or not, you use water in your everyday life in so many different ways. From the moment you brush your teeth in the morning to when you make dinner after you get home from work at night, water is part of our routine in one way or another. While having easy access to water is a privilege, it can also lead to some serious water damage if a leak occurs unexpectedly.
Knowing where to look for the source of a leak can help you take action quicker and stay in control of any emerging water leak issues. Check the spots below first on your search!
Beneath Your SinksOur sinks and taps are a necessary part of our homes, but they are the location of where almost all of our water flows out from! That means that suffering a water leak beneath your sink can happen at any time if a seal starts to wear away or a connection starts to loosen.
Once the water has started to leak, it can drip and seep into your walls, into your wooden cupboards and under your floors before it is discovered. Check your water lines often by opening up cabinets and going on a hunt.
Underneath AppliancesAnother important aspect of our homes is our appliances, especially those that use water to function. After all, that laundry isn’t going to do itself! Dishwashers, ice makers, washing machines and water heaters use a lot of water to function, and a simple mishap or malfunction in the appliance can lead to serious water leaks.
Water leaks from appliances can be especially troublesome because if they are not caught quickly, water could continually be pumped onto your floor until the cycle is finished or until it is discovered. Get in the habit of checking your appliances regularly while they are running so you can address leaks right at the beginning.
Behind Walls and Under FloorsThe trouble with water is that it can easily leak and seep into virtually every surface in your home. Once it is on your floors, it can get into the cracks in your floorboards or it can leak behind your walls.
Once it gets to a hard-to-reach area, it can be really hard to dry out on your own and then mold becomes a concern. If one of your walls feels soft in a particular area or you discover that your floors near your dishwasher are warping, it’s time to investigate.
Around WindowsCondensation is a normal thing to happen around windows and doors when temperatures change drastically outside, but that condensation can also linger on your windows and drip down onto your wooden window sills. Over time, that water can leak down your walls and warp the structural supports behind your drywall.
Gaps, cracks and even structural sagging issues can also invite water inside. Check your windows, doors and skylights for issues any time it rains and be sure they are all shut tight against the elements.
Since it is not possible to completely prevent damage, SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is here to help! Our team will arrive quickly, address any water extraction needs and also handle your repairs. We will make sure you overcome your water damage as quickly as possible.
Don’t ignore signs of water damage! Call SERVPRO® for a quick restoration.
Staying Calm and in Control During a Flood at Work | SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex
12/22/2023 (Permalink)
Don't let flooding in your office throw you off your game! Call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex to restore your space to preloss condition.
We all fall into those routines in the morning as we arrive at work, like flipping on lights, unlocking doors and getting the building ready for another day. While we are running around on autopilot, we never suspect to run right into a disaster situation like a flood!
Floods at work can happen at any time and can be caused by Mother Nature or something simple like a busted water line. No matter how it happens, recovering quickly is key to avoiding long-term and potentially business-ending damage.
The First Important Steps
The first thing you need to do is stay calm. Many flood situations can’t be prevented, so it’s not your fault! Try to focus on what needs to happen first:
- Stay safe. We always want you to stay safe! As soon as you discover the problem, keep your employees out of the area and avoid walking through the water yourself. Assess the situation from a dry location, and get us on the phone right away. We will work on gathering a team and packing up our trucks and then we will be on our way to you.
- Control the disaster. Acting fast can help you avoid suffering further damage. Identify the source of the leak and find the controlling water valve to stop the flow of water. If you can’t quickly locate the problem, turn off the main water valve for the time being.
- Start the drying process. Floodwater can be really dangerous, especially if you aren’t sure where the water originated from. Stay out of the water while you are walking around to open windows and turn on fans to start the drying process. Section off the area to keep everyone out until we arrive.
Working With SERVPRO®
We know that the longer there is water on your floors, the worse the situation will become for you. It is our goal to work as quickly as we can to remove the standing water but also the hidden moisture that is lurking behind your walls and under your floorboards.
We will take care of your restoration, all you have to do is take care of your staff and find ways to work while we are getting everything done.
Oftentimes, we are able to close off portions of your building so you can still operate in a limited capacity. We know that every minute you have to be closed unexpectedly can be really hard on your bottom line and on your employees, so we prioritize efficiency in everything that we do.
Once we have your building dry and ready for repairs, we will get right to work fixing warped floors, replacing damaged carpet and hanging fresh drywall. We are here for you no matter how destructive the flood is!
Do you need repairs after a water disaster in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.
Home Damage Possibilities in the Winter | SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex
12/8/2023 (Permalink)
Don't let winter weather destroy your home! Call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex to mitigate water damage faster.
The winter weather has arrived in the Pewaukee area, and unfortunately, it is here to stay for a while. As proud midwesterners, we know how to handle the freezing cold and the snowy days, but severe weather will always have us running to the safety and comfort of our homes.
We are at risk of suffering through severe weather no matter what time of year it is, but the strong wind, heavy snow and icy conditions can make it hard to get anywhere and it can be hard on our homes.
Knowing the different ways that your home can be damaged can help you avoid serious damage and it can help you stay safer when Old Man Winter comes to town.
The Biggest Risks to Watch For
The risks to your home from outside sources can vary accordingly, but we are uniquely vulnerable to the winter weather any time from October to April. Talk about a lot of potential for severe weather!
If snow falls hard and fast enough, it can pile up on your roof and prevent your gutters from working properly, it can block vents so your home can’t ventilate properly, and water leaks can infiltrate your home from your roof all the way down to your basement if water gets into any cracks in your foundation.
Wind also has the potential to wreak havoc on your home during the winter. Winter wind can blow snow and other debris against your house or ice over important parts of your home.
When the Damage Leads to More Damage
As if suffering through winter weather damage isn’t enough, it can quickly become a worsening situation the longer it is left unaddressed. Water in your basement or in your attic can quickly create structural issues and it can even spark mold infestations if the water lingers for too long.
Blocked vents due to snow or ice cover can become dangerous or even deadly in mere minutes. If your vents cannot eliminate carbon monoxide, it can back up into your home and cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
Wind can tear up shingles and damage your roof, which can lead to structural integrity problems, ice dams and frustrating water leaks all over your home. If you suffer any sort of water or storm damage during the course of the winter season, SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is here to help.
Our team is trained to respond quickly to your call for help, and we will get right to the point of clearing out damaged debris, drying up water and addressing necessary repairs. We will ensure that the source of the problem is repaired as well as the resulting damage from the water or wind. We will even work with your insurance company to make your recovery process that much easier.
Stay warm out there, folks! If you suffer winter home damage, call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex for a quick restoration.
Does your home need restoration and you don’t want to make more than one call? Contact us to get everything handled by one team.
The Discovery of a Water Leak in Your Home | SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex right away.
Take a moment to think about how often you use water in your daily life. The frequency of how often you turn on a faucet or run an appliance might surprise you! We certainly rely on water to help us get through our days and provide for our families, but that also means the possibility of experiencing water damage is always present.
If water finds itself in a place where it shouldn’t be, like on your floor or behind your walls, it can cause widespread issues and costly damages. In addition to household accidents like appliance malfunctions or busted pipes, Mother Nature can impact your home as well. Heavy rain during those classic Milwaukee-area summer thunderstorms can leak through your roof or flood your basement.
Preventing water damage takes some preparation, but unfortunately it’s not always possible to completely prevent a situation from occurring. Thankfully, SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is here for you to make sure your home is dried and restored quickly.
Controlling the SituationIf you come upon a leak or an active flooding situation in your home, stay calm but act quickly. Water has the potential to leak down your walls, into your floorboards and into your ceilings in a matter of minutes after the problem begins, so the faster you move, the better.
Once you have discovered the source of the leak, you should focus on stopping or slowing the flow of water. If the situation was caused by a broken pipe or appliance problem, shut off the controlling water valve and turn off the power in that room. If your roof or walls have been damaged in a storm and the water is leaking in that way, you may just have to catch the dripping while you wait for the storm to pass in order to investigate safely.
It’s important to remember that flooding situations can be a bit more dangerous as there could be live electrical wires or sharp objects lurking beneath the surface. Avoid walking through the water if possible.
Now that you have initially controlled the situation, it’s time to pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex! Our team will be there right away to help dry out your space and handle your restoration with ease.
Our Reliable Drying ProcessIt is our goal to get started on your restoration as quickly as possible, so we will ask you a bunch of questions during our first phone call so that we have a good idea of the situation. We will also ask you to take some photos of the damage. Fresh images of the damage will help make the insurance claims process smoother, and we can use these images to communicate directly with them on your behalf.
We get started on your restoration from the moment we step into your home. We know that time is of the essence when it comes to water damage, so our team will turn on our blowers and air movers right away to dry up the excess water. We also focus on saving your possessions and drying out your soft materials because we want to restore whatever we can!
When the water is gone, we will clean, sanitize and deodorize the entire space before starting on any repairs. Water has the innate ability to warp and ruin many different areas of your home, but we are fully trained to handle anything from laying fresh carpet to drywall repair. When we are through, you would never know a water disaster occurred in your home.
Even just an inch of water where it shouldn’t be can cause significant issues for your home, so count on us to help you! SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is here for you 24⁄7, and we will make sure you and your home are well taken care of.
Do you have water damage in your home? Call us for fast and complete restoration.
Preparing for Heavy Rain in Our Community | SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex
9/19/2023 (Permalink)
Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex on the case!
Rain is definitely a hot topic at this time of year. Some days we are so grateful for a good soaking because our lawns and gardens really need it, and other days we are all glued to the weather forecast hoping that the severe storm skips us over.
Severe weather can be scary any time of the year, but the summer season is a bit different. Rain can wash over our area in intense waves, bringing strong wind and the occasional hail along with it. Sometimes the rain can fall fast enough to overwhelm our homes and leak down our walls.
Our SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex team understands the dangers of intense rain, so we explain some easy ways to prepare your home for any incoming storms we have yet this year.
The Power of RainOur community certainly sees our fair share of thunderstorms from early spring to mid fall. Each storm can bring wind, hail, rain and even the occasional tornado that can cause widespread damage in a short amount of time. If it rains hard enough, Pewaukee Lake can start to rise and low-lying areas or drainage ditches can become dangerous to be around.
Even though we can’t control what the weather does, we can do our part to be prepared for the different scenarios. Stay connected to local authorities and take action quickly when a watch or warning is issued.
How to Stay SafeYour family’s top priority should always be safety, so head for home as soon as intense rain is expected. Avoid roads that flood often and drainage areas as you make your way home. Once you are home safe, start preparing your home. Tie down your lawn furniture and propane tanks, and move your car into the garage just in case the flash flood makes its way to your street.
If your basement often gets wet when it rains, start collecting your fragile or soft possessions and move them to a safe location and shut off electricity to these spaces just to be on the safe side. Once the storm begins, stay calm if the rain starts flooding in. Just stay above the water line and don’t walk through any standing water. All you need to do is ensure your safety and then give us a call for a complete restoration.
Steps to Take to Stay Dry in the FutureWe all know that we can’t completely control the outcome of severe weather and the impact it has on our homes, but we can still learn from every situation. For example, if your basement always falls victim to heavy rain, it may be due to your yard. Getting it professionally graded can help naturally encourage water to flow away from your home instead of backward into your foundation.
You can also invest in a sump pump! These handy pieces of equipment help pull water away from your basement and pump it back up to the surface, where it flows away from your house.
Even if you do everything right, water damage does still happen from time to time. Call our restoration specialists for a complete recovery! We will dry up the water, repair whatever the water warped and even sanitize your space to prevent mold growth.
We are here for all of your water disasters. Contact us day or night for a quick recovery.
Put a Stop to Pesky Water Leaks | SERVPRO® of Pewaukee & Sussex
5/9/2023 (Permalink)
Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex to find the source.
Water damage can be really troublesome for homeowners. Even just an inch of water can cause large-scale disasters and can be costly to recover from. Whether it be a small leak that goes unnoticed for a long time or a singular incident like a flood, water damage is a constant threat.
Because water damage can occur in a variety of ways, it is important to familiarize yourself with where it is most likely to occur.
Learn more about where water damage can occur in your Pewaukee area home below.
Your rooftop. Your roof works hard day in and day out to keep you safe and dry. But sometimes, a gap or missing shingle is all it takes to cause a water leak.
Since we don’t often get up on our roofs on a daily basis, these issues could be missed and not noticed until it is already too late.
A leak that is left to, well, leak, will keep causing damage until it is stopped. The water will seep down into your ceiling, walls and floors and will continue to cause water damage behind your walls. If that happens, mildew and mold growth are not far away.
In your bathroom. In addition to your roof, your bathrooms are also another common place for water damage to occur. The frustrating thing about our bathrooms is that there are many places that could produce water damage here. Sinks, toilets, showers and tubs constantly have water flowing through them.
Be proactive about investigating new puddles or a spot on your floor that always seems to be wet. Even a hole the size of a pinhead along a water line can cause widespread issues eventually. It is also important to ensure that you dry out your bathroom by running your fan or opening a window to reduce lingering moisture.
It’s better to be too thorough than not thorough enough! Don’t overlook the importance of regular routine maintenance and checking your water lines often.
Your water-reliant appliances. We love having access to appliances like dishwashers and washing machines only a few steps away in our homes. It definitely makes daily tasks and chores easier. However, they can also make your daily life miserable if you come home to a flooded utility room or water all over your kitchen floor.
Preventing water damage due to your appliances takes a bit more investigative work. Since we don’t often (or ever) pull our bulky or heavy appliances away from the wall, a water leak can easily go unnoticed behind or beneath your appliances.
Do your best to check under and behind them often for signs of water, and certainly dig deeper if you discover a puddle of water on your floor for no apparent reason. In addition, replace your dated appliances regularly to ensure you are providing your home with the most reliable equipment. If you do still end up suffering water damage in your home, SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex can help you with a speedy cleanup.
Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!
Preventing Water Damage Caused by Your Appliances | SERVPRO® of Pewaukee & Sussex
4/11/2023 (Permalink)
Have water damage in your home from an appliance? SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is always on call ready to help.
Water is critical for our day-to-day tasks. Cooking dinner, running a load of laundry, washing our hands and even grabbing ice out of your ice maker to chill your drink all require water! Because of that, there is always the risk of experiencing water damage in your home.
Commonly, water damage is caused by an appliance malfunction or issue that goes unnoticed. If it is left to linger, it can spread and cause all kinds of issues in your home.
Thankfully, many water damage scenarios can be prevented with a little attention to detail and dedication to your maintenance routine.
Investigate Right AwayThe best way to prevent widespread water damage is to stop it from occurring in the first place! Every time you walk by an appliance that uses water, check the floor around it for puddles or water spots.
While some water issues are obviously noticeable, others can be harder to spot if they originate under your appliances. Don’t overlook the importance of regularly pulling your appliances away from the wall to clean and to check for water damage. Mold or water spots are good indicators of a water problem.
Another area that needs attention is your HVAC system! Ideally, it should be serviced by a professional every year to ensure it is in good working condition. In addition, you should check the vents often for signs of lingering moisture or for puddles on the floor.
Your water heater is also an appliance that is used every day in your home, so you need to stay on top of any maintenance and address emerging problems quickly.
Keep Your Appliances Running SmoothlyPreventing extensive damage is all about your attention to detail. The faster you notice a leak or a drip, the better chance you have at avoiding long-term issues!
Have your appliances maintained according to the manufacturer recommendations and replace parts as needed. Replacing parts like your hoses and tubes can be an easy and cost-effective way to prevent full appliance malfunctions. Any kinks or holes in your water lines can lead to a huge water disaster.
When choosing parts, go with the brands you trust and pick the highest quality parts. If it is within your budget, consider replacing your appliances every 10 to 15 years to ensure you have the most reliable technology in your house.
Stay on top of your appliance maintenance routine and be proactive against any issues you discover! These simple tips can help keep your home comfortable and dry.
Have water damage in your home from an appliance or another source? Our team is here to help, so call us day or night.
Protect Your Home From Water Damage in the New Year | SERVPRO® of Pewaukee & Sussex
1/10/2023 (Permalink)
Have water damage in your home? Contact SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex for quick and professional restoration.
A new year means a whole new season of possibilities! It is the perfect time to plan for new projects and new goals. This year, we want to make sure you are prepared to prevent water damage to save you money and certainly a headache.
Water is one of the most common culprits for home damage. Since we use water in our everyday lives, the threat is almost constant.
<h3does-water-damage-start">Where Does Water Damage Start?
In order to fully understand how to prevent water damage, you have to know what could cause it. Outside the home, blocked gutters and a damaged roof can cause water issues, while large appliances like your dishwasher could cause water damage inside.
Old or rusty pipes or deteriorating caulking can also cause issues over time. It is important to address these troubles quickly to avoid leaks, mold growth or rotten walls.
As soon as you catch an emerging issue, take care of it right away! The longer you leave it unaddressed, the worse your problem could become.
<h3prevention-steps">Easy Prevention Steps
A lot of water damage is preventable, as long as you investigate issues early and take care of the problem thoroughly.
It just takes a little more in-depth work while you are going about your day! Get used to checking your bathrooms and kitchen for water stains or signs of mold. Give your air a sniff from time to time to check for the classic musty odor accompanying a mold problem.
You also need to set aside time to investigate around the exterior of your home and on your roof. Roof damage is an easy way for water to get into your home and leak down your attic and walls.
In the winter, our homes are vulnerable to the effects of snow and ice. Keep the air circulating through your home, keep snow and ice buildup off of your roof, and close up any drafty areas or gaps around your windows and doors.
Once the snow thaws, consider grading your yard! Moving the soil around your property can help slope your yard away from your foundation and can help you avoid a flooded basement. These simple steps can help you keep a dry home all year.
Have water damage in your home? Contact us for fast, professional restoration back to preloss condition.
The Facts on Water Damage in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Pewaukee & Sussex
12/9/2022 (Permalink)
If you experience any water damage inside your home or business, reach out to SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex.
Water is essential in our homes and in our lives, but we want it to stay off of our floors and out of our basements. Water damage is a constant threat and can happen in an obvious manner or it can slowly creep up on us without much forewarning.
The key to controlling water leaks in your home is to be proactive. Spotting a water leak early can save you time and money when it comes to necessary repairs.
Keeping Your Bathroom DryWe use water in our bathrooms perhaps the most out of any other room in our home. Sinks, bathtubs, toilets and showers all utilize water daily in order to function. That also means that the threat of water issues are present every day, too.
Check the seals around these fixtures and inspect their water supply lines every time you clean your bathroom. This can help you catch any cracks or leaks right away.
The Threat of Your AppliancesWe are grateful for the inventions of the water heater, dishwasher and washing machine. They can make our lives much easier and more comfortable, but only when they work how they are supposed to.
Faulty appliances are one of the common reasons we get calls about water damage. Routinely cleaning them and checking for water damage can help stop a small problem from becoming a large and costly issue. If you notice any staining, peeling paint or mold behind these appliances, call us immediately so we can investigate.
Water Damage and the WeatherWe are constantly battling different weather here in eastern Wisconsin. If we aren’t experiencing heavy rain from summer thunderstorms, we are hunkering down during a strong winter storm.
Even just this fall, we experienced record rainfall from that single storm that came through, leading to roads flooding and overflowing rivers. All it takes is one strong storm for us to wake up to standing water in our homes.
At each change of the season, check your windows and doors to make sure they are waterproof. Controlling moisture in your home prevents water damage as well as potential mold growth.
It is also important to focus on keeping your yard and roof ready for the change in season! Clean out your gutters, clear off your roof and set up your downspouts so that you are ready for anything the winter brings our way.
If you experience water damage inside your home or business, call us 24⁄7. We have the experience and equipment to get your property back in working order fast.
Responding to a Water Disaster at Your Business | SERVPRO® of Pewaukee & Sussex
10/21/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex are your local commercial restoration company. We will always be here to help and get you back in business.
Whenever water is involved in a disaster, it can be costly and extensive to repair. That is especially true if the disaster happens at your business!
In addition to the sheer cost of a commercial restoration, you also would have to take into account any closures while the repairs are taking place. This alone should make every business owner start to prep ahead of time.
Water damage can come in the form of burst pipes, sprinkler system issues and of course, Mother Nature. We experience all kinds of water-related weather events here, from thunderstorms to ice storms. Even just recently we were affected by flooding and road closures on I-94. Whenever water is involved, there is a risk for damages.
Understand Your Utility RoomIf your business is in a storefront or building, chances are that it has some type of utility space where all of your valves are. Fully understand what all of your water shutoff valves do and what they are responsible for.
Once you understand it, communicate this to your management team or whoever you entrust your business to while you are not there. Someone should always be able and ready to respond to an emergency situation!
Different Water TypesWater is constantly flowing around us providing many different daily services, so it’s no wonder that there are different levels of water safety.
White water: This kind of water is the water within your pipes. It is typically considered safe to handle in small amounts.
Gray water: Gray water is all of the water that flows into your sink, shower and kitchen drains. While it is considered contaminated, handling it carefully is considered OK.
Black water: Black water should always warrant a professional cleanup. This water can contain sewage or runoff from a storm drain and is considered toxic.
Taking Appropriate ActionOnce you discover the problem, turn off the appropriate shutoff valve immediately. Then start to address your situation.
If you have the ability to open windows and start circulating the air, do so now and turn on some fans. Then make sure you close off the area to customers, bystanders and your staff to keep everyone safe.
After all that is done, start documenting any damages with pictures. Insurance agents will want clear pictures of what happened, so the sooner you can get them, the better.
We Can Handle the JobWhile drying out your space is the first priority, checking for any hidden water damage should happen next. Your wall studs, beams and floorboards may still be soaked and if they are not dried quickly, mold could set in.
Call us to do the job right! Our team at SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex is here for you no matter what kind of water damage problem you face. We have the proper equipment to get the job done thoroughly, and we will work our hardest to repair your business for you.
When disaster strikes your commercial property, we’ll be there to help clean up and get you back in business quickly. Reach out 24⁄7 to get started!
What type of equipment is used to detect moisture in my Waukesha, Wisconsin home?
6/16/2021 (Permalink)
Moisture meter
Once a water damage hits your home or commercial property, our crew will come out to evaluate the damage. Water damage restoration requires the use of certain equipment. This may include detection devices, extraction equipment, air moving and dehumidification equipment, as well as safety equipment. Simply having access to the right equipment is only part of the process.
Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure into which water has intruded and defining the extent to which structure and contents have absorbed moisture beyond normal moisture levels. Various devices allow a water damage restoration professional to track moisture within a structure. These devices include the following:
- Moisture sensors
- Thermal imaging cameras
- Moisture meters
- Thermo-hygrometers
Moisture Sensors
The moisture sensor is used to detect moisture in carpets and padding. The moisture sensor has sharp probes that penetrate through carpets and pad to determine if water has migrated on the subfloor underneath.
Thermal Imaging Camera
Thermal imaging cameras (also called infrared cameras) are utilized for inspecting and monitoring moisture in building materials. They can show how water traveled throughout a structure, and many times they can indicate moisture that otherwise may have never been discovered. At the end of the project, they provide excellent documentation or proof that drying was successfully completed. Technically, thermal cameras do not display moisture images, but rather infrared images.
Moisture Meters
Moisture meters are utilized to measure the actual moisture content or level of various materials. Some meters are calibrated to measure specific materials; for example, a moisture meter calibrated for drywall will not accurately read moisture content in wood materials. Some meters are adjustable for different types of materials, such as a meter that can be adjusted for both wood and drywall. There are penetrating and non- penetrating moisture meters.
Thermo-Hygrometers
A thermo-hygrometer (sometimes referred to as hygrometers) measures the relative humidity and temperature of air masses. Some thermo-hygrometers also give the restorer the humidity ratio, vapor pressure, and dew point.
If you have a water damage, call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex. We are always open and always ready to help!
262.696.6336
Hurricane Prep Week
5/10/2021 (Permalink)
Hurricane Prep Week
Being prepared for a disaster such as a hurricane can make all the difference in safety as well as damages. Each day this week we will be posting tips that can help you be prepared for a hurricane or any other major event. There is always comfort in having peace of mind knowing that you are ready.
First things First:
Start by creating an emergency ready plan for your family that includes emergency meeting places in your home, neighborhood and outside your neighborhood. You should make copies of your Family Emergency Ready Plan for each member of the household to carry in his or her wallet, backpack or purse. You should also post a copy in a central place at home.
You can create your own emergency ready plan at https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2021-04/family-emergency-communication-plan.pdf
Water Damage Statistics
5/2/2021 (Permalink)
Example of Water Damage
Water problems are a nightmare for homeowners, especially when those problems then lead to significant flooding. Flooding, plumbing leaks, and water damage can happen at any time. Due to this, your valuables, textiles, and furnishings can be be damaged. Basements and lower levels of a home are especially susceptible to this type of damage.
Numerical Water Damage Statistics
98% of basements in the US will experience some type of water damage during their lifespans.
37% of US homeowners have suffered loses from water damage
14,000 Americans have some type of water damage emergency at home or work EACH DAY.
2.5 Billion is the annual cost to insurance companies from water damage and mold in the US.
6,965 is the average cost of a residential water damage insurance claim
Have a Water Damage?
As water damage specialists, we have the experience, expertise, and training to help get your property dried quickly and thoroughly.
Call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex at 262.696.6336.
Understanding Mold Growth Due to a Water Damage
1/20/2021 (Permalink)
Mold Proliferation
Understanding Molds
Molds are everywhere in our environment and are a vital part of the ecological system. Molds have existed a long time. Mold is a fungus, a multicellular plant-like organism, that does not produce chlorophyll as plants do.
The life of a typical mold begins as a tiny spore. The spore functions like a seed, but is smaller and simpler. Molds have a spore mass much smaller than the size of a pinhead, but this tiny structure contains thousands of spores. When something causes the spore mass to break, thousands of mold spores are set free. Airflow carries the spores off, and they remain airborne until gravity finally causes them to settle.
Eventually, the airborne spores land and settle on a surface. Spores may or may not germinate immediately, since they are built for survival. The spores may lie dormant, waiting for the right conditions for growth. Those conditions include food, temperature, and moisture.
Molds can germinate where these conditions are present. How fast growth occurs depends on the combination of conditions. Spores can germinate after only 12 hours in some conditions and some grow in 24 to 48 hours. Houses offer an ample food supply—drywall, wood, insulation, paper. When these materials become damp or wet, settled spores can become growing molds.
Growth Begins with Hyphae- Moisture causes spores to swell and begin to grow by sending out a network of structures. These networking growths are called hyphae. Many types of molds grow and expand through three kinds of hyphae:
- Root-like hyphae grow like roots beneath the surface of the material on which the spores settled.
- Surface hyphae-spread out across the surface of a material.
- Upright hyphae- grow upright and have a spore mass on top. Eventually the spore mass breaks sending out more spores, and the life cycle starts over. Molds are designed to survive and multiply!
If your property undergoes a water damage and the water isn't remediated quickly, you can seriously inhibit mold growth.
If your property has had a water damage and you suspect mold growth, for a free inspection don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Pewaukee and Sussex. 262.696.6336.
*Source: Understanding Mold In The Property Restoration Industry
5 Tips to Stop Frozen Pipes
1/13/2021 (Permalink)
Frozen Pipes
The cold weather is about to begin and it is not all fun and games as our kids like us to believe.Your houseful of pipes are definitely not looking forward to the winter season. SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex have handled a countless number of broken and busted pipes from the freezing weather every year. Trust us, you are not alone, every year, over 250,000 properties suffer water damage from frozen pipes that burst (Federal Emergency Management Association). SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex are sharing these tips to prevent frozen pipes that may lead to water damage.
Preventing Pipes from Freezing in Wisconsin (Easier Than You Think):
- Take a peak in the attic and basement especially near exterior walls and see if the pipes are insulated.
- Wrap uninsulated pipes with pipe insulation, you can pick this up at every hardware store
- If your Attic and Basement are poorly insulated, take a gander to the hardware store and get some insulation to keep the inside of your house a bit warmer. This tip also saves you money on your energy bill.
- Every few days turn on those faucets, even if you do not use them just to keep the water moving through the pipes
- Probably one of the big culprits is the outside hose. Make sure to turn off the water to the outside as this will always be the most likely to freeze.
Remediation Procedures for Contaminated Water
1/12/2021 (Permalink)
Wet flooring
Whenever your property has a water damage, it can be a little overwhelming. It can be good to have a better understanding of what exactly is going on and why they are happening. The list below will hopefully give you a better understanding of how work on a water damage will progress. A water damage will potentially involve the following remediation activities:
- Ensure Protection of Occupants and Workers
- Establish Engineering Controls
- Extract water and remove bulk material
- Provide humidity control
- Demo unsalvageable materials
- Demo to expose hidden materials
- Clean and decontaminate salvageable materials
- Dispose of waste
- Decontaminate Equipment and Workers
- Remediation Verification
- Protect Contents
- Extract excess water
- Provide humidity control
- Demo to accelerate drying or removal of damaged materials
- Deodorize
- Complete Final Extraction
- Establish Drying Zones
- Position Drying Equipment
If your property has experienced a water damage, please call SERVPRO of Pewaukee and Sussex today at 262.696.6336.
We are always Here to Help.
What Type of Equipment is Used to Detect Moisture in my Pewaukee Home
6/16/2020 (Permalink)
Moisture Meter
Once a water damage hits your home or commercial property, our crew will come out to evaluate the damage. Water damage restoration requires the use of certain equipment. This may include detection devices, extraction equipment, air moving and dehumidification equipment, as well as safety equipment. Simply having access to the right equipment is only part of the process.
Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure into which water has intruded and defining the extent to which structure and contents have absorbed moisture beyond normal moisture levels. Various devices allow a water damage restoration professional to track moisture within a structure. These devices include the following:
- Moisture sensors
- Thermal imaging cameras
- Moisture meters
- Thermo-hygrometers
Moisture Sensors
The moisture sensor is used to detect moisture in carpets and padding. The moisture sensor has sharp probes that penetrate through carpets and pad to determine if water has migrated on the subfloor underneath.
Thermal Imaging Camera
Thermal imaging cameras (also called infrared cameras) are utilized for inspecting and monitoring moisture in building materials. They can show how water traveled throughout a structure, and many times they can indicate moisture that otherwise may have never been discovered. At the end of the project, they provide excellent documentation or proof that drying was successfully completed. Technically, thermal cameras do not display moisture images, but rather infrared images.
Moisture Meters
Moisture meters are utilized to measure the actual moisture content or level of various materials. Some meters are calibrated to measure specific materials; for example, a moisture meter calibrated for drywall will not accurately read moisture content in wood materials. Some meters are adjustable for different types of materials, such as a meter that can be adjusted for both wood and drywall. There are penetrating and non- penetrating moisture meters.
Thermo-Hygrometers
A thermo-hygrometer (sometimes referred to as hygrometers) measures the relative humidity and temperature of air masses. Some thermo-hygrometers also give the restorer the humidity ratio, vapor pressure, and dew point.
If you have a water damage, call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex. We are always open and always ready to help!
262.696.6336
Flooded Basements in Pewaukee/ Waukesha/ Sussex Area
5/22/2020 (Permalink)
This Pewaukee home’s basement flooded due to heavy rains.
A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your Pewaukee or Sussex basement could flood, including:
- A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
- Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
- Storm sewer backup
- Sanitary sewer backup
- Foundation drainage failure
- Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
- And many more
Have Questions about Basement Flooding?
Call Today - 262.696.6336.
If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.
We are Flooded Basement Specialists:
- We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
- We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
- Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
- Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 262.696.6336
Water Damage Statistics
5/20/2020 (Permalink)
Here is an example of Water Damage
Water problems are a nightmare for homeowners, especially when those problems then lead to significant flooding. Flooding, plumbing leaks, and water damage can happen at any time. Due to this, your valuables, textiles, and furnishings can be be damaged. Basements and lower levels of a home are especially susceptible to this type of damage.
Numerical Water Damage Statistics
98% of basements in the US will experience some type of water damage during their lifespans.
37% of US homeowners have suffered loses from water damage
14,000 Americans have some type of water damage emergency at home or work EACH DAY.
2.5 Billion is the annual cost to insurance companies from water damage and mold in the US.
6,965 is the average cost of a residential water damage insurance claim
Have a Water Damage?
As water damage specialists, we have the experience, expertise, and training to help get your property dried quickly and thoroughly.
Call SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex at 262.696.6336.
5 Tips to Stop Frozen Pipes
1/14/2020 (Permalink)
Don't Let Your Pipes Freeze On You This Winter
The cold weather is about to begin and it is not all fun and games as our kids like us to believe.Your houseful of pipes are definitely not looking forward to the winter season. SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex have handled a countless number of broken and busted pipes from the freezing weather every year. Trust us, you are not alone, every year, over 250,000 properties suffer water damage from frozen pipes that burst (Federal Emergency Management Association). SERVPRO of Pewaukee & Sussex are sharing these tips to prevent frozen pipes that may lead to water damage.
Preventing Pipes from Freezing in Wisconsin (Easier Than You Think):
- Take a peak in the attic and basement especially near exterior walls and see if the pipes are insulated.
- Wrap uninsulated pipes with pipe insulation, you can pick this up at every hardware store
- If your Attic and Basement are poorly insulated, take a gander to the hardware store and get some insulation to keep the inside of your house a bit warmer. This tip also saves you money on your energy bill.
- Every few days turn on those faucets, even if you do not use them just to keep the water moving through the pipes
- Probably one of the big culprits is the outside hose. Make sure to turn off the water to the outside as this will always be the most likely to freeze.
24/7 Emergency Service