Sump Pump Back Ups In Your Residential Home

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

This residential basement experienced water damage due to a sump pump back up.

Our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus Team sees many flooded basements due to sump pump issues. If you have a sump pump, follow these steps.

First things first, check with your insurance agent to review your coverages! It is very frustrating for owners to find out they did not have any coverage or insufficient coverage.

How do you know if you need sump pump coverage or not?  Look at what you have in the basement. If you have an unfinished basement and just concrete floors, without any contents (or very few and not valuable), then you probably won't suffer much of a loss other than the cleanup effort from someone like us at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, who specializes in cleaning up floods and backups in homes and businesses. If you have a finished basement and contents that you would want to be replaced if ruined, then the cost of replacing and repairing everything grows very quickly, and insurance can be a good way to protect your investment (in your contents, and structure--walls, etc).

Take time today to reach out to your insurance agent for a coverage review--you may be surprised how under insured you are, not only for your home or business, but also your vehicles, health, and life. No, we are not insurance guru's, but we see their clients--YOU, and they are either very upset with the situation because of no coverage or under insured, or just a little frustrated with the situation, but feel better about it when they know it is a covered loss! 

Another precaution is to make sure you are paying attention to the weather and when we get a bunch of rain, then make sure you go downstairs to catch a problem as early as possible. Many times, property owners do not realize they have a water loss until they start to smell something and go downstairs to see. The longer the water sits, the more damage and discard items you can expect...including your carpet, pad, and drywall that was affected. 

Sump Pump Maintenance

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Sump pump failures can cause devastating water damage to your home.

A sump pump is one of the most important parts of basement plumbing equipment. It makes sure that any accumulated water in your home and around its foundation is promptly pumped out and away from your home to a storm sewer or containment pond, so it doesn't allow your basement to flood, damaging your possessions. At least, that's what it is supposed to do. If your sump pump is not regularly and properly tested, then you can't guarantee that it will come through when you need it most.

1. Inspect the pump and its outlet pipe

Start the inspection by listening. If there is excessive groundwater around the foundation, the pump should turn itself on, pumping out the water and turning itself off again. Next, remove the cover and look inside the sump pit. If the level of water is low, there is a high chance the pump is working properly. Examine the sump pump for any signs of external damage, as well as any obstructions or debris in the surrounding pit. You will also want to see if the outlet pipe that carries water from the pump to outside your home is free of any blockage. And the check valve is working properly.

2. Check the electrical components

Your sump pump should be plugged into a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, which protects it from a potential short while it is submerged. Consider getting yourself a battery-based backup pump for your sump pump that will kick on if your primary sump pump fails.

3. Test the sump pump

Test your sump pump by pouring in five gallons of water. The pump should then turn on once the water level reaches a predetermined level below the basement floor. If the pump doesn’t turn on, it could be either clogged or damaged, and you should call a licensed plumber for help.

4. Clean and maintain your sump pump

The typical lifespan of a sump pump is 10 years but if your sump pump is running often, you should consider replacing it every 5 to 7 years. Inspect and test your sump pump at least once a year. To be safe, check your sump pump before a big storm hits your area.

If you experience a loss due to your sump pump failing, don't hesitate to call the professionals at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus!

How Can I Reduce The Level Of Flood Damage In My Home?

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

The furniture had to be removed from the affected area to be cleaned separately.

For many Columbus residents, any storm-related flooding can be a traumatic event. While there are methods to prepare for flooding like reinforcing your roof or removing expensive furniture, there is little help in an emergency's immediate aftermath. Our SERVPRO technicians can help you overcome flooding by performing vital mitigation acts quickly after a storm event.

Flood mitigation in Columbus may include actions like removing standing water from the home, drying inner rooms, or temporarily storing possessions at our warehouse. Contacting a highly qualified restoration company immediately after discussing your coverages with your insurance carrier can go a long way to reducing the losses caused by a flood after the fact.

What preventative measures are useful for storm areas?
- Taking out a flood insurance policy
- Maintaining water disposal in the home such as basement sump pumps, gutters, and drainage
- Turning off water mains access ahead of time to avoid backups

Do floodwaters permanently damage furnishings?
Furnishings are frequently victims of flood damage for residents. We understand how many items may be difficult to replace in a home, so our dedicated SERVPRO technicians are expertly trained in contents restoration. Larger items like sofas may benefit from temporary removal to a dry area where they can be thoroughly dehumidified to remove any excess moisture. Our technicians can also apply an extensive range of cleaning products and techniques to return upholstery to its preloss condition. By pre-testing on discrete areas of the fabric, we can avoid lasting damages of color fade or spot.

What restoration is available for furnishings?
- Thorough drying of the affected furniture
- Special services for leather, satin, or other unique upholstery
- Buffering and mechanical cleaning of furniture fibers

An unexpected summer storm can lead to extensive damage to both your home and its contents. Contact our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus Team at (614) 888-5700 for assistance.

What To Do After A Tree Falls On Your House

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

A tree fell on this local home and damaged the roof. Luckily our SERVPRO Team came to the rescue!

When a tree falls on your roof, it not only damages your home’s structure, but it also exposes the inside of your home to outside elements. During certain times of the year, our SERVPRO Team gets a mass amount of calls from customers who have had trees fall on their roof and are unsure of what to do. It’s not a quick process, but there are a few steps you can take!

1. Remove the tree. This might seem like an obvious first step, but we’ve had countless calls from customers who haven’t even removed the tree. Until the damaged area of your roof has been cleared, it can’t be covered. We recommend calling your local tree removal company.

2. Tarp exposed areas. Unless you’re lucky, a fallen tree will likely cause damage to your roof, generally leaving it exposed. To ensure outside elements don’t get in and cause more damage to the inside of your home, you should have the affected area tarped.

3. Contact your local SERVPRO Team. The tarp is only a temporary solution! After the damaged area is tarped, our SERVPRO Team will discuss next step repairs with you. If a storm hits before the affected area is properly tarped, you will most likely have water damage affecting the interior of your home. Our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus Team can not only handle your water disaster but also fix your damaged structure of your home!

A fallen tree can cause a lot of damage and create a headache for you, but with the above steps, you can get your life back on track. If your home is damaged by a fallen tree, call our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus Team today! We are available 24/7 to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Classes of Damage

1/20/2022 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO technicians are trained handle any size and any class disaster!

If you have ever endured storm damage to your Columbus home, SERVPRO is here to help.  Our employees are trained and certified by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) to ensure that the technicians have the expertise in restoring your home. 

In cases where there is flood damage to your home, the IICRC categorizes four different classes of destruction as follows:

• Class 1:  The lowest and easiest to deal with, this has a slow evaporation rate. Only part of a room or area was affected, there is little or no wet carpet, and the moisture has only affected materials with a low permeance rate, such as plywood or concrete.
• Class 2:  With a fast evaporation rate, this level affects an entire room, carpeting, or cushioning, the wetness has wicked up the walls at least 12”, and there is moisture remaining in structural materials.
• Class 3:  This class has the fastest evaporation rate, and ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet and sub-floors are all saturated. The liquid may have come from overhead. 
• Class 4:  This class is labeled as specialty drying situations, which means there has been enough liquid and time to saturate materials with very low permeance, such as hardwood, brick, or stone.

If your home is ever in need of restoration services from flood damage, call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus at 614-888-5700!

Are You Covered For The Next Storm?

9/28/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is prepared for the unexpected. Call our heroes today at 614-888-5700!

Bad weather can spring up without much of a warning. Most of the time when a flash flood or bad thunderstorm is threatening your area, you barely have enough time to find shelter. As a homeowner, it is important that you think about these moments before they occur.

Do you have the correct insurance policy? Is your home going to be covered in the event of a disaster? Is the amount of coverage going to be enough to restore your home? Thinking about these questions before the storm damage occurs can make your life after the storm much easier.

Before you do anything else, stop and make sure your home is covered for the following:

• Water and Windstorm Damage
• Debris or Tree Removal
• Sewer Backup Due to Flooding
• Sump Pump Failures Due to Flooding
• Additional Living Expenses In Case A Storm Forces You Out of Your Home

Once you have the proper home insurance coverage for storm damage, you can feel safer during the event of a disaster. Seeing your home damaged after a major storm can be heartbreaking. The best thing you can do for your family and your home is to begin the storm damage recovery immediately.

Our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus Team is here to help after every storm. We are available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year!

Clogged Gutters Can Cause Unexpected Water Losses In Your Columbus Home

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

It is critical to keep your gutters clean to prevent water from seeping into your basement and causing floods.

One of the biggest fears as a homeowner with a basement is your basement flooding whenever it rains. A valid and legitimate fear, this situation causes a myriad of repairs. All sorts of damage including ruined flooring and carpeting, rotted drywall, destroyed furniture, and the worst of all, mold growth can occur. These repairs can be time-consuming and costly, and your basement can even flood in dry weather.

Issues with your foundation drainage is a big cause for a flooded basement and flood damage in your Columbus home. However, the main reason for water in your basement is overflowing gutters. It is critical to keep your gutters clean to prevent water from seeping into your basement and causing floods. Quality gutter guards and even using an expert to clean your gutters out routinely keeps debris and leaves out of the gutters so they can function properly.

When your gutters do cause flooding in your basement, it can be quite overwhelming. You need to have professionals, such as SERVPRO, come to your home to help you get all the water out and repair the damages.

When your gutters are clogged with debris, the water has nowhere to go. It overflows over the gutters to the ground next to your house, only a couple feet from the foundation. As the ground is settling and moving, it stresses the foundation of your home which causes cracking, letting water enter your home. Hydrostatic pressure might force water in through the concrete. The main solution is to keep your gutters clean.

Flooded basements create not only a lot of possible damage but plenty of stress for you as well. At SERVPRO, we understand this, so we move quickly to get to your home after you reach out to us. We have the professional and industrial equipment to get all the standing water out of your home and use fans and dehumidifiers to finish the drying process. We have moisture meters to find any hidden water or mold growth as well.

When SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is finished restoring your home after your basement floods, it is "Like it never even happened." Just give us a call at (614) 888-5700 so we can get started as soon as possible.

Leave The Roof Tarps To Us!

4/29/2021 (Permalink)

This residential home needed a tarp after a recent storm.

Here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus we want to take the hassle and stress out of the board up and roof tarping of your home due to a disaster.

Whether your home or business was damaged by a storm, or other structural disasters, boarding up or tarping a damaged property is a burden that you as a homeowner shouldn't have to handle. Incorrectly boarding up or tarping your home can result in further damage, making the situation worse. Whether the further damage be from moisture or animal intrusions.

Our dedicated team of professionals are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year to help with in case you come across unexpected damage to your home or business.

Our trained and certified professionals are here to board up or tarp your damaged property, remediate the original damage and provide you with peace of mind while helping make it “Like it never even happened.”

Avoid These Dangers During a Flood

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Water Removal By SERVPRO Mitigates Damage to Your Columbus Home

SERVPRO Extracts Flood Waters to Mitigate Damage

Flood damage is exceedingly dangerous, for both homes and lives. Floods have the power to swamp and drown residents, as well as cause them serious injury or infection. To homes, they can seep and flow into not only furniture but also the structure itself, causing immense water damage. Furthermore, floodwaters are usually unsanitary and can cause dangerous airborne and water carried illnesses and mold, which may cause health effects. Avoidance is the best way to skirt issues and hazards caused by flooding. So watch out for heavy rains or floodwaters in the street, and keep upstairs if possible.
 
Infection and Illness
One of the most common injuries sustained after flood damage in Columbus is an infection. Floodwaters breed and transport dangerous microbes, and because they often mix with sewage and overflow materials, diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and others can occur. Any water ingested or entering wounds has serious potential to lead to illness or infection, hence why you should exercise extreme caution and avoid entering floodwaters when possible. Also, some microbes, pathogens, and viruses may spread through the air or emit toxic gasses, and so the air surrounding flooded areas may also be hazardous to breathe.
 
Cuts and Wounds
Floodwaters often carry shards of wood, glass, and ceramic that may cut or stab into exposed flesh. These can cause blood loss and pain, in addition to opening up a wound for infection. Should you be cut anywhere in a flood-soaked area, immediately seek to disinfect and bandage the wound to prevent acute infection.
 
Further Damage to the Home
SERVPRO lists on our website some ways that you can help clean up before our technicians arrive following a flood. Be careful to stick to these recommendations and avoid danger, as there is a chance that you may cause further damage to your home. Allow our trained IICRC technicians in water restoration to be the first to begin serious work, for the sake of both you and your insurance.
 
SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is a locally owned and operated company with trained technicians and high-quality equipment prepared to deal with any flooding disaster, large or small. Call us today at (614) 888-5700 for our help or services.

Who Should You Call After A Storm

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

This home experienced water damage due to cracks in the roof which lead to water making its way inside the home.

Who Do You Call?

When a storm comes down quick and fast, it often finds the cracks in the roofs, or the storm floods a part of your home and remediation is often needed. Most homeowners do not think about who their remediation company might be if needed. Most people may never experience something like this and the idea of a contractor coming into your home is sheer terror. With all the nightmare stories that exist about contractors, it is no surprise!

We Will Put You At Ease

Here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, we want to put your anxiety about hiring someone to come and make repairs to your home. We are here to help you get your home put back together and walk you through the entire process. We want to make sure that you have the confidence when you hire us that we will get the job done efficiently and correct the first time. Things are going to happen, how we react to them and how we prepare for them is the difference.

Call our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus Team today at (614) 888-5700 for all of your storm damage needs. We are always here to help!

How To Prepare For Winter Storms

1/7/2021 (Permalink)

Be ready this winter!

Winter weather in Ohio can be hard to predict.  Even though we have not any snow yet this year, it is a good idea to prepare your home, car and surrounding area for any upcoming storms. 

Follow these helpful tips

Salt pavement around your house: the city is pretty good with clearing the roads around your home, however any sidewalks and pathways are left up to the homeowner to clear.  To make things easier on homeowners, once you are aware of any storm headed your way spread street salt on your driveway and walkway. Placing salt down prior to any snowstorm can reduce the ice that forms underneath piles of snow. 

Keep a steady drip:  With snow comes freezing and sometimes below freezing conditions leaving your pipes vulnerable and likely to freeze and in turn burst.  Having a settle but steady drip of warm water flow through will help keep your pipes from freezing during these conditions. 

Create a winter ready emergency kit: In an event of a snow storm the strength of it is always unpredictable.  To keep you and your family safe, create and keep a winter ready emergency kit available.  A few things to keep in the kit; bottled water, batteries, a functioning radio, different layers of clothing, blankets and non perishable food items.

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus has a 24/7 emergency response team that is ready to handle any storm damage you may have in your Columbus home.

Our SERVPRO Team's Storm Response

9/25/2020 (Permalink)

Call our SERVPRO Team today! We are faster to any size disaster!

Our team here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is always ready for whatever happens, no matter the time of day. Our crews are always on standby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When it comes to fire and water damage, our professionals work tirelessly to make sure our customers are satisfied and are explained each step of the cleaning process.

Highly Trained Storm Damage Specialists

As leading professionals in the storm and water damage industry, we have advanced training and expertise, along with a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. We use this training and experience to quickly dry your home or business and restore it back to pre-storm condition.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

If a storm hits your home or business, odds are you'll need help immediately. Our team's quick response will help prevent any secondary damage and help reduce restoration costs.

We Have the Resources to Handle Storms and Disasters

Our team has access to resources and personnel of over 1,800 franchises to handle major storms and disasters. Our team also has access to our exclusive Disaster Recovery Teams strategically located to respond to catastrophic storms and events throughout the country.

Locally Owned and Operated

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is locally owned and operated. We are actively apart of the community with you as well. When you have a storm disaster or flooding emergency, we are in the area and ready to help you.

If you experience storm damage, don't hesitate to call our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus Team at 614-888-5700. We are always here to help!

You Can Rely On Our SERVPRO Team For Flood Damage

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let a flood disrupt your life. Call our SERVPRO team!

If you’ve recently had a flood of significance in your home, or firefighters have used water hoses to extinguish a fire, you are probably experiencing some severe water damage to your home and possessions. It can be overwhelming for sure, and in this type of situation, it is important that you know professionals you can turn to, like our team at SERVPRO, to help you restore your property back to its preloss state.

Flood damage in Columbus of any kind can create quite the mess of things and will disrupt your daily routine. However, you can rest assured that the professionals at SERVPRO are trained to handle any situation like this properly so that they can have you back to normal as soon as possible. Water damage restoration is a process with multiple steps which need to be handled by our professionals who are licensed and certified water restoration contractors, both through corporate and IICRC training methodologies.

The Initial Visual Inspection
The first step will be to do an initial assessment to figure out the right action that is needed to reverse the adverse effects of the flood damage. After this is done, if there are no safety hazards, your contents will be secured, and the restoration can begin.

Extraction of Water
Containing the flood damage and getting rid of any standing water right away is the top priority. Anything that is wet such as pillows, throw rugs, toys, clothing, and the like are removed from the affected area. Our technicians will start to treat any wet surfaces such as ceilings, walls, or floors to help speed up the drying process. Baseboards may need to be discarded, along with any wet insulation. Cabinet drawers and doors will be opened to speed up the drying process. All wet surfaces will have to be treated.

Stabilizing and Drying
Once all the wet materials are removed, the drying process can begin. Technicians will use commercial grade equipment, including dehumidifiers, air movers, heaters and wood floor drying systems. Controlling the moisture is very critical in preventing the growth of mold and preserving your belongings and furnishings.

Reassessing the Damage
Once your home is dry, certified technicians will do another inspection to make sure there are no hidden moisture pockets which could result in further damage or mold growth. No guess work is involved because moisture sensors and thermal hygrometers will reveal hidden pockets of residual moisture.

Reconstruction
After the water damage has been mitigated and your home returned to a preloss condition, if there are any building materials which need replacement or structural damage, the last step is restoration. At the end of reconstruction, your home will be safe and secure once again for you and your family. "Like it never even happened."

Flood damage can be devastating. However, we at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus have the knowledge and training to restore your home. Give us a call anytime at (614) 888-5700!

Spring Showers Bring... Flooding?!

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus take care of your residential and commercial flooding needs.

We have all heard the saying “April showers bring May flowers”. Large amounts of rainfall is not only common during this time of the year, at the beginning of spring but also in this region of the country. It has become something all of us Ohioans "put up" with in hopes of sunny, warm, and beautiful summer weather.

Unfortunately April showers not only bring May flowers, they bring rainy days. These rainy days often lead to flooded basements, sump pump overflows, and more water damage. Oh no! But have no fear SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is here to help 24 hours a day with any flooding disasters you may experience.

We have a team of trained professionals ready and waiting to help get your life back to normal. Call our SERVPRO team today at (614) 888-5700!

Procrastination Can Lead To Flood Damage In Your Columbus Home

4/9/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO team is here to help!

Damage from Flooding Has Many Results

Putting off repairs until another time can allow leaks in pipes to become larger. These drips can suddenly become much greater, flooding your home. A pipe with a small crack can instantly turn into a broken conduit, sending water by the gallon into your living space. The same goes for joints that are not sealed or soldered correctly and come undone.

If you live in Columbus and this situation happens to you, here are a few things you should know about flood damage. Water can damage anything it comes into contact with, even if the water is clean. Pure water can easily become contaminated by things in your home. Flood damage, just like water damage, gets worse the longer it is allowed to remain present.

Water flowing down your stairway and gushing over the sides can accumulate in many different locations in your home. Water travels downhill, but it also can spread out and cover more surface area when covering something in a horizontal manner, such as it would on a table. Wood absorbs water much more slowly than your carpet, upholstered furniture, or mattresses can, but wood can still soak up enough to be damaged by it.

The water involved in a broken water line is clean, of course, but that does not mean that the water will remain clean. Carpeting, even in the most meticulously kept home, contains many contaminants. Water can whisk that up and carry it along, dropping different things here and there along the path of least resistance. When those same contaminants remained trapped in your carpet's fibers, they did little damage, but now they are free. Contaminants can include microbes such as bacteria and even parasites that may have been inactive until they were immersed in water.

Flood damage can happen with water of any type, clean or utterly filthy. Leaving clean water standing is obviously not conducive to remaining in your home, and SERVPRO can remedy that quickly with a pump truck. However, simply extracting visible water is not enough. Damaged walls must be replaced with new ones, and upholstered furniture must be completely dried and possibly aired out. Your carpeting may need to be removed, and new carpeting installed or, perhaps, cleaned extensively and then dried well. Most often, though, carpeting is usually destroyed by flooding, even if the water was from a clean source.

Because flooding creates a situation in your home that is hazardous to your health and safety in numerous ways, having professionals who are experienced in the complicated cleaning up this type of damage is critical. Incorrect methods, or incomplete ones, can create more harm, not less, in the future. Allowing flooded areas to remain contaminated because they cannot absorb any water, such as the undersides of cast iron tubs, puts your family at risk. Each SERVPRO technician treats your home with respect and care they would pay for their own, and we always take the time required to ensure that each job is complete and done correctly.

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is always ready, day or night, to help you take the sting out of flood damage. We know flooding happens without warning, so we are always ready to take your call. Contact us at (614) 888-5700, for this and any other disaster in your home.

Sign Of Storm Damage On Your Home

4/3/2020 (Permalink)

This home was damaged by a tree falling on it after a storm.

After a storm rolls through, it is important to inspect your house for damage the storm may have caused. Listed below are areas you should be looking at.

1. Roof: Look for shingles that have discoloration, tearing, or even holes in them. These can all be signs that your roof has been damaged. Another sign is if there are leaks in your roof or your ceiling.
2. Gutters: After a hail storm, looking for dents or dings can also give you a better picture of what the storm did to the rest of your home. Your gutters can also give you insight to whether you have roof damage. Check to see if there are granules from the asphalt shingles in your gutter.
3. Windows: Look at each of the windows on your homes and note any signs of shattered or broken window and frame damage. This is especially important after a hail storm or a strong wind storm.
4. Exterior: Not only is it important to look at the siding of your home to check for damage, it is also important that you check all appliances. Inspect your AC/HVAC unit as well as items such as an outdoor grill.

After your inspection, if you notice any signs of storm damage follow up by checking the area for signs of mold, mildew, pests or other secondary damage. Our team is able to put an emergency roof tarp to prevent any further damage. Call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus at (614) 888-5700 for any restoration needs you may have.

What To Know About Ice Dams

1/3/2020 (Permalink)

If you experience water damage caused by an ice dam, call our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus team.

For homeowners in Columbus, winter can bring a number of problems, from burst pipes to leaky roofs. Another issue you may not be aware of is the formation of ice dams. While it may not seem like much of an issue on its own, it can cause extensive water damage to your house which can then create more problems. Here are a few things that you should know.

1. What Are They?

As you may be able to guess from its name, an ice dam is a formation that keeps water from properly moving from your roof. They occur when snow melts and then refreezes into harder ice. They often form on the edge of the roof which can make it difficult for water to drain properly but can also show up in other areas. When this happens, the trapped water can begin to back up and cause damage to the roof and ceiling underneath it.

2. How Do You Prevent Them?

These formations occur because of melting and refreezing snow, so one tip for ice dam prevention is to keep the temperature of your roof cold enough to prevent melting. This is most easily done by keeping the temperature in your attic low. Proper insulation can help as well. Another method of prevention is removing snow from your roof immediately after a storm.

3. How Can You Remove Them?

If you already have an ice dam on your roof, then you should remove it as quickly as possible to prevent it from causing any damage. One way to do this is by using an ice melt product. Hot water steaming can do the trick as well.

While a winter storm and cold weather can often create frustrating problems, you do not need to handle them all on your own. Our SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus team is always here to help!

Preparing You And Your Home For A Storm

9/13/2019 (Permalink)

This flooded basement was caused by a severe storm, damaging the interior of the home.

1. Maintain surrounding landscaping. In a heavy storm, dead tree limbs can cause damage to the exterior of your home or shatter a window if they get loose.
2. Secure fences. If you have a fence, make sure it is secured to help prevent it from lifting up and getting thrown against the house.
3. Secure outdoor furniture. Patio furniture and grills can damage the exterior of your home during heavy winds. Anchor your furniture or bring it indoors before a storm hits.
4. Check gutters. Prevent damage to the inside of your home by having your downspouts lead away from your home. Clear any debris that may be hiding in your gutters.
5. Protect critical areas. Wind can cause major damage to your home. Install temporary protection on windows, doors and garage doors.
6. Protect any valuables. Protect valuables by storing them in waterproof containers. Put any important documents in a safe deposit or fire safe box.
7. Have a basic emergency kit. Prepare your family’s emergency kit with enough food, water, and supplies to last for at least three days. Your emergency kit should include water, food, battery powered or hand cranked radio, hand crank flashlight, first aid kit, cell phone with charger and a local map.
8. Know your family emergency plan. Staying connected during an emergency is the most important. Establish a local place your family to meet during an emergency.

Dangerous Wind Damage

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

With spring just right around the corner, thunderstorms can not only bring water damage to homes, it can also bring wind damage.  Damage from severe thunderstorm winds account for half of all severe reports in the lower 48 states and is more common than damage from tornadoes.

Below are some steps to take if your home is damaged by wind.

Documenting Damage:

• Call and report your damage to your insurance company.
• From a safe location, take pictures of any damage.
• Inventory any belongings that may have been destroyed or damaged, noting the brand, price, age, etc.
• If you have pictures of your home before the damage, include them with your insurance claim.

Preventing Further Damage:

• If you suspect possible structural, electrical or gas-leak hazards, shut off electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions.
• Cover broken windows and doors with tarps, heavy plastic or plywood to prevent further damage. Save repair receipts for reimbursement. 

Repairs and Cleanup:

• Don’t start permanent, major repairs or renovations until your property has been inspected by an insurance representative.
• If your roof needs to be replaced, hire a professional roofing contractor who is licensed and insured.
• Fallen trees or large branches also are best removed by a professional tree service. This service may be covered depending on your policy coverage.

If your home suffers wind damage, please contact SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus for any board up, tarp up, tree removal, or roof replacement services.

Source: https://www.nationwide.com/wind-damage-claims.jsp

Be Prepared When a Storm Strikes

4/17/2019 (Permalink)

Commercial Flooding

Floods can occur in every single U.S. state.  Below are a few steps to take before, during, and after a flood from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Before

• Know Your Risk:  Is your home or business in a floodplain?  Where is water likely to collect on the roadways you most often travel?  What is the fastest way to get to higher ground? Knowing the answers to these questions ahead of time can save your life. 
• Assemble an Emergency Kit:  It is good practice to have enough food, water and medicine on hand at all times to last you at least 3 days in the case of an emergency. You should also have batteries, blankets, flashlights, first aid kit, rubber boots, rubber gloves, and a battery-operated radio easily available.

During:

• Get to a Higher Ground:  Get out of areas subject to flooding and get to higher ground immediately
• Stay Informed:  Monitor local radio and television, internet and social media for information and updates.
• Practice Electrical Safety:  Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises --get out!

After:

• Contact Your Family and Loved Ones:  Let your family and close friends know that you’re okay so they can help spread the word. Register with or search the American Red Cross’s Safe and Well listings.
• Wait for the "All Clear":  Do not enter a flood damaged home or building until you're given the all clear by authorities. If you choose to enter a flood damaged building, be extremely careful. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss the damage done to your property

If a flood occurs and affects you, call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus.  Even minor floods have potential to cause major damage.  Let us help you get your life back in order. 

Source:  http://www.floodsafety.noaa.gov/

Spring Storm Dangers from Lighting Strikes

4/5/2019 (Permalink)

Lighting Strike

Severe spring weather can bring many dangers to your family and property due to lighting strikes. Per the National Weather Service lightning strikes the United States about 25 million of dollars a year and insurance companies pay out millions of dollars in property claims each year from lighting strikes.

Lighting damage can affect your home several different ways, it can be a direct strike, enter through the ground or through wires or pipes. Anything that is conductive in a house has the potential for lighting to enter your home causing severe property damage. No matter how lighting enters your home, the damage can be extensive and devastating.  

SERVPRO'S across the country receive many calls each year for property damage from lighting strikes. If lighting strikes your home, you need to get everyone out of the house immediately and call 911. The fire department will be contacted, and they will search your home for any possible dangers.

When everyone is safe, and your house has been cleared your next call should be SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, we can help with any damage from fire and water damage from a lighting a strike. Call us at 614-888-5700.

Who Would You Call?

4/1/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding caused by a recent storm.

Who Do You Call?

When a storm comes down quick and fast, it often finds the cracks in the roofs, or the storm floods a part of your home and remediation is often needed. Most homeowners do not think about who their remediation company might be if needed. Most people may never experience something like this and the idea of a contractor coming into your home is sheer terror. With all the nightmare stories that exist about contractors, it is no surprise!

We Will Put You At Ease

Here at SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus, we want to put your anxiety about hiring someone to come and make repairs to your home. We are here to help you get your home put back together and walk you through the entire process. We want to make sure that you have the confidence when you hire us that we will get the job done efficiently and correct the first time. Things are going to happen, how we react to them and how we prepare for them is the difference.

Call Now With Any Questions: (614) 888-5700

Are You Ready For The Storm?

3/27/2019 (Permalink)

Come Check Me Out!

Ready for the Spring?

Springtime is a good time to go over the checklist of things that we need maintain around our homes. Being prepared can help us save thousands of dollars in unexpected damages to our investment. Spring storms sometimes come at unexpected times and although we do everything we can to be prepared, sometimes we get caught off guard. Check up on your sump pump and make sure that it is ready to take on those spring storms. A quick test can save you a lot of headache in the long run.

What If I Get Caught?

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus is always at your service 24/7. We understand the storms that can sneak up on you and we are here to help make the problem go away. If you have an unexpected loss that effects your home, please reach out to us at: (614) 888-5700. We will come out to your home, reverse the damages, and work with your insurance professionals to walk you through the process.

Summer Storms can Bring Flash Flooding

6/19/2018 (Permalink)

Flood Damage

When we think of summer our thoughts go to sunshine, beaches and lemonade but summer storms can bring heavy rains and flash flooding. These storms can bring several inches or feet of water in a short period of time causing flooding and many dangers. The NSSC (National Sever Storms Laboratory) says that, “floods are the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters and in the U.S., floods kill more people each year than tornadoes, hurricanes and lighting.”

To keep your family safe during a flash flood, follow these guidelines:

• If you live in a flood zone, have a family plan.
• Always be alert of flash flood watches and if it turns into a warning get to high ground immediately.
• Never drive into high water, your vehicle can be carried away or flip over.
• Do not walk into highwaters, only six inches of rushing water can knock you over. Flooding water is also considered sewage because the contaminates it contains.
• Downed power lines can cause the water to be deadly.

When the water recedes, there are some precautions you can take:

• Make sure is it safe to return to the flood zone.

• Check your basement for water damage caused by the flood. Do not enter if there is standing water.
• Inspect structure for damage and any risk of collapsing.
• Check for fire hazards, gas leaks and water damaged electrical circuits.
• Look for cracks or damage to your foundation.
• Ventilate your home by opening windows and doors.
• Dispose of any food that was in the flood.
• Be caution of any animals that may have entered your home.

If your home is damaged by flooding, you will need a professional water damage restoration company to restore your home. Call SERVPRO of N.E. Columbus at 614-888-5700.

How To Protect Your Home From Storm Damage

4/4/2018 (Permalink)

Basement Demolition From Water Damage

Spring has officially arrived in the Columbus, Ohio area. Even though spring brings sunshine and flowers, it can also bring some nasty storms. During severe weather, your home can experience brutal conditions including water damage, flooding and destruction both inside and outside your home. Unfortunately, you can’t stop the weather but there are steps you can follow to help minimize the potential damage a storm may cause to your home.

1. Adjust your home water valves: If your city’s main sewer line often gets backed up during a heavy rainstorm, you could find yourself in a “crappy” situation. Consider installing an interior or exterior backflow valve to prevent your water system from being contaminated from water that is flowing backwards into your own supply lines.
2. Clean your gutter, drains, and downspouts: Leaves and other debris can often build up in your gutters and downspouts, blocking the flow of water. If the water has nowhere to go, then you have water overflow, which is not good. Make sure you clear out any excess leaves, twigs, and other debris, so the openings to the downspouts are completely clear. A garden hose can be used to check the flow of the water. If it is necessary, extend your downspouts by at least 10 feet from your home to get the water a safe distance away.
3. Cover air vents: One of the most common ways water can find its way into your home is through your air vents. If you’re aware that you will be experiencing heavy rains in the near future and have a high chance of flooding, use a thick plastic sheeting to cover your air vents from both inside and outside your home.
4. Have your roof inspected: Ideally, you should have your roof checked every year but you should always have it inspected before wind, rain, and snow sets in. A new roof should be inspected after the first five years, then again at 10 years, 13 years, 15 years, 17 years, and after that it should be every year. It is important to have your roof inspected so you can catch problems before it becomes a headache and possibly causes water damage.
5. Check your sealant: Make sure there are no gaps or holes in the sealant surrounding your doors and windows. If you find gaps in the sealant, fill them in immediately. By filling in these gaps and holes in the sealant, it prevents rain water from finding its way into your home.

If water still manages to find a way into your home, call SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus at (614) 888- 5700. We’re always here to help!

Storm Damage in Blacklick

3/18/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage to Basement

We received numerous calls over the past few weeks due to the flooding that has hit the Columbus metropolitan area.  A lot of these homes flooded due to sump pump malfunctions.  It is very important for Sump Pump's to be well maintained so that your basement does not get affected when heavy storms roll through the area.  The foullowing are 4 Tips for Sump Pump Maintenance:

1. Test it regularly:  You can test your sump pump to confirm it’s working properly. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit. When you do this, the pump should turn on right away. Remove the water from the pit, then shut it off in a couple of seconds. Be sure that the float switch and the check valve can move freely and that nothing is in the way. In addition, check the discharge line to be sure it is not obstructed or frozen. Also, if the inlet screen is clogged, clear it of any residue or debris.
2. Change Batteries:  If your sump pump is backed up by batteries, be sure that the batteries are replaced every two to three years, or as directed from the manufacturer.
3. Clean It:  At least once a year, you should take out the pump. Begin by disconnecting it from the power. Flush it out well with water to remove any standing debris. While it’s out, remove stones, mud, debris, or anything else that is inside the sump pit. Then put the sump pump back in and reconnect it to the power. Test the unit by pouring a bucket of water into it to ensure the sump pump still functions properly.
4. Be Sure the Outside of your Home is Well-Maintained:  Basement flooding can be incredibly damaging. To avoid this, seal any cracks in your walls, windows, or in the foundation. In addition, clean gutters and downspouts regularly so things can drain properly. Also, make sure that the grading around your home is designed properly. It should slope away from the foundation so water can be washed away. Water buildup can happen quickly. If your home’s exterior isn’t being taken care of, you could see damage in your basement right away. A sump pump works well in normal conditions, but it can’t overcome a faulty design.

Source:  https://meticulousplumbing.com/4-tips-sump-pump-maintenance/

In the even that your basement does end up flooding, contact SERVPRO of NE Columbus to make it "Like it never even happened."

Storm and Wind Damage

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Damage from a Fallen Tree in Dublin, OH

With spring just right around the corner, thunderstorms can not only bring water damage to homes, it can also bring wind damage.  Damage from severe thunderstorm winds account for half of all severe reports in the lower 48 states and is more common than damage from tornadoes.

Below are some steps to take if your home is damaged by wind.

Documenting Damage:

• Call and report your damage to your insurance company.
• From a safe location, take pictures of any damage.
• Inventory any belongings that may have been destroyed or damaged, noting the brand, price, age, etc.
• If you have pictures of your home before the damage, include them with your insurance claim.

Preventing Further Damage:

• If you suspect possible structural, electrical or gas-leak hazards, shut off electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions.
• Cover broken windows and doors with tarps, heavy plastic or plywood to prevent further damage. Save repair receipts for reimbursement. 

Repairs and Cleanup:

• Don’t start permanent, major repairs or renovations until your property has been inspected by an insurance representative.
• If your roof needs to be replaced, hire a professional roofing contractor who is licensed and insured.
• Fallen trees or large branches also are best removed by a professional tree service. This service may be covered depending on your policy coverage.

If your home suffers wind damage, please contact SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus for any board up, tarp up, tree removal, or roof replacement services.

Source: https://www.nationwide.com/wind-damage-claims.jsp

Minimizing Storm Damage with Trained Professionals

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Severe Flood Damage

If you have ever endured storm damage to your Columbus home, SERVPRO is here to help.  Our employees are trained and certified by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) to ensure that the technicians have the expertise in restoring your home. 

In cases where there is flood damage to your home, the IICRC categorizes four different classes of destruction as follows:

• Class 1:  The lowest and easiest to deal with, this has a slow evaporation rate. Only part of a room or area was affected, there is little or no wet carpet, and the moisture has only affected materials with a low permeance rate, such as plywood or concrete.
• Class 2:  With a fast evaporation rate, this level affects an entire room, carpeting, or cushioning, the wetness has wicked up the walls at least 12”, and there is moisture remaining in structural materials.
• Class 3:  This class has the fastest evaporation rate, and ceilings, walls, insulation, carpet and sub-floors are all saturated. The liquid may have come from overhead. 
• Class 4:  This class is labeled as specialty drying situations, which means there has been enough liquid and time to saturate materials with very low permeance, such as hardwood, brick, or stone.

If your home is ever in need of restoration services from flood damage, call SERVPRO at 614-888-5700

Storm Damage in Blacklick

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Storm Damage to Basement

We received numerous calls over the past few weeks due to the flooding that has hit the Columbus metropolitan area.  A lot of these homes flooded due to sump pump malfunctions.  It is very important for Sump Pump's to be well maintained so that your basement does not get affected when heavy storms roll through the area.  The foullowing are 4 Tips for Sump Pump Maintenance:

1. Test it regularly:  You can test your sump pump to confirm it’s working properly. Pour a bucket of water into the sump pit. When you do this, the pump should turn on right away. Remove the water from the pit, then shut it off in a couple of seconds. Be sure that the float switch and the check valve can move freely and that nothing is in the way. In addition, check the discharge line to be sure it is not obstructed or frozen. Also, if the inlet screen is clogged, clear it of any residue or debris.
2. Change Batteries:  If your sump pump is backed up by batteries, be sure that the batteries are replaced every two to three years, or as directed from the manufacturer.
3. Clean It:  At least once a year, you should take out the pump. Begin by disconnecting it from the power. Flush it out well with water to remove any standing debris. While it’s out, remove stones, mud, debris, or anything else that is inside the sump pit. Then put the sump pump back in and reconnect it to the power. Test the unit by pouring a bucket of water into it to ensure the sump pump still functions properly.
4. Be Sure the Outside of your Home is Well-Maintained:  Basement flooding can be incredibly damaging. To avoid this, seal any cracks in your walls, windows, or in the foundation. In addition, clean gutters and downspouts regularly so things can drain properly. Also, make sure that the grading around your home is designed properly. It should slope away from the foundation so water can be washed away. Water buildup can happen quickly. If your home’s exterior isn’t being taken care of, you could see damage in your basement right away. A sump pump works well in normal conditions, but it can’t overcome a faulty design.

In the even that your basement does end up flooding, contact SERVPRO of NE Columbus to make it "Like it never even happened."

When Storms or Floods hit Westerville, SERVPRO is ready!

6/3/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Westerville.

SERVPRO of Northeast Columbus specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Westerville, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,700 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 614-888-5700