The Lasting Impact of Untreated Water Damage

1/9/2025 (Permalink)

Ignoring water damage may seem manageable initially, but it can lead to severe issues that extend far beyond the initial flooding or moisture exposure. While the immediate effects may appear minor, untreated water damage often hides serious risks to your property and health. Addressing water damage promptly is essential to avoid escalating problems and costly repairs. Below, we delve into the potential consequences of untreated water damage and why swift action is crucial.

Lost Structural Integrity

Water infiltration can do severe damage to a building's structural components. This damage wears away foundations over continuous exposure to walls and floors, and the longer anything is exposed to moisture, the worse it can become. Some of the material can spoil as wood may rot, drywall can crumble, or even rust metal components. If you fail to address these problems, unsafe living or working conditions need costly repairs. Also, get an inspection done and take prompt action to minimize structural damage.

Mold Infestation

One of the worst side effects of untreated water damage is mold growth. Mold loves living in damp environments, and it develops in less than 24 to 48 hours. If it comes in contact with you or your family, it can pose significant health risks, such as respiratory problems and allergic reactions, as molds can spread quickly throughout a property. Take swift action if needed to prevent mold growth. 

Electrical and Plumbing problems

Water damage often affects systems such as electrical wiring and Plumbing. Electrical components can short circuit if subjected to moisture, significantly raising the risk of fires or system malfunction. There's also a danger that pipes will corrode from prolonged exposure, resulting in leaks or bursts. Although these 'hidden' items may go unnoticed until they cause significant disruption, they indicate the necessity of thorough evaluations after water-related incidents.

Reduced Property Value

For most people, the most critical assets are properties; if unchecked of any water damage, the market value can drop significantly. The issue is that potential buyers are also very cautious of hidden issues like mold,  lingering moisture, and mainly water leakage. A property's value may not fully recover, even after repairs have been completed unless a document proves that everything is done professionally.

Work with SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties

Treated water damage can provide peace of mind for property and health. Hidden dangers, like structural weakening or mold growth that could escalate from minor to significant, need quick attention. Homeowners should pay close attention to these problems to maintain their property and health.

SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties water damage restoration services preserve your investments and health standards while avoiding future costly long-range problems, protecting your property, and preserving your safety and functionality.

Mold Prevention After Storm Damage: Key Steps to Take

12/16/2024 (Permalink)

Storms present serious issues for homeowners and property owners. High winds, pouring rain, and snow can often reveal and expose weaknesses in your property’s siding or roofing. While your immediate concern is handling the water damage cleanup that leaks in your property might cause, you should also think long-term. Mold grows wherever it can find ideal environments, meaning mold often proliferates after storms. Here is a quick guide on handling mold prevention, water damage cleanup, and mold remediation. 

Dehumidify Your Property As Soon As Possible

A common mistake homeowners make is assuming that once they clean up any water that has pooled in their property, they are done. This is not true. When water enters your home, it stays in your home as moisture in the air, which is all mold needs to grow. A dehumidifier can help remove moisture from the air and decrease the likelihood that mold will grow. 

Get Rid Of Waterlogged Furniture or Carpets

If upholstered furniture or carpets are damaged by water, you might need to get rid of them. Mold frequently grows inside waterlogged furniture and can grow inside couches, mattresses, and carpets. Sometimes, it is not worth drying the furniture, and it is better to simply get rid of it. 

Check For Water Damaged Insulation

Certain insulation materials, like cellulose, which is made from recycled paper, can become infested with mold. During heavy rainfall, the insulation can soak up moisture, leading to mold growth inside your walls. After a storm, you should consider having a water damage cleanup crew look for signs of water damage in your insulation. 

Disinfect Surfaces 

If you work with a water damage cleanup crew, they will likely recommend that surfaces be cleaned and disinfected. This can help ensure that water damage does not lead to mold growth. Mold growth begins with spores, so disinfection can help prevent mold from growing in the first place. 

Look For Mold Throughout Your Property

Mold growth requires existing mold. If you notice mold or mildew throughout your property, you should hire mold remediation specialists to help you clean up or get rid of contaminated surfaces. Here at SERVPRO®, we provide mold remediation and water damage cleanup for Newport County and Bristol County properties.

How to Assess Fire Damage After a Fire Incident

11/26/2024 (Permalink)

Experiencing a fire in your home or business is a traumatic event that can leave lasting physical damage and emotional scars. Once the flames have been extinguished and the immediate danger has passed, the next crucial step is to assess the damage. However, this requires caution and careful consideration. This blog will guide you through safely assessing the fire damage to ensure you take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your property and begin the recovery process. 

Wait for Professional Clearance 

Before attempting to assess the damage to your property, ensure the fire department or emergency services have declared it safe to enter. Hidden dangers, such as smoldering materials or weakened structures, can often exist. Once clearance has been given, you should begin inspecting the damage. 

Wear Proper Safety Gear

Safety should always be your top priority when assessing fire damage. Fire can leave behind toxic chemicals, structural hazards, and unstable areas. Wear the following gear to minimize health risks: 

• Gloves
• Dust Mask or Respirator
• Safety Boots
• Protective Eyewear

Assess the Damage to Utilities 

Fire can cause severe damage to electrical systems, plumbing, and gas lines. The following safety measures should be taken: 

• Shut off utilities: If safe, turn off the electricity, gas, and water supply to avoid further hazards. 
• Inspect electrical systems: Look for exposed wires, scorch marks, or signs of short circuits. Only attempt to turn on the power once an electrician has inspected the system. 
• Gas lines: If you smell gas or suspect damage, evacuate immediately and call your gas utility provider or emergency services. 
• Water Damage: Water used to extinguish a fire can cause additional damage to your property. Look for signs of water damage; our damage restoration pros can handle both water and fire damage restoration.

Document the Damage

Before any cleanup or repair work begins, take detailed photographs of the damage. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and help restoration professionals understand the scope of the damage. Make sure to capture both wide-angle shots and close-up details of affected areas: 

• Burn marks or charring
• Structural damage
• Damaged personal items
• Smoke and soot residue

Begin the Restoration Process with SERVPRO 

Once the damage has been assessed and you’ve taken the necessary safety precautions, you can begin restoration. Our team at SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties can help restore your property. Depending on the severity of the damage, this may include: 

• Removing excess water used to put out the fire.
• Removing soot, smoke, and odors from the air and surfaces.
• Repairing walls, floors, and roofs. 
• Cleaning and restoring personal belongings like furniture, electronics, and documents. 

By following safety protocols, wearing protective gear, and consulting professionals, you can safely evaluate the extent of the damage. Remember that early intervention can minimize further harm and damage to your property. Restoring your property afterward may take time, but our team at SERVPRO Team Luzzi can help you rebuild and recover from even the most devastating fire. 

How To Know If You Have Black Mold

10/23/2024 (Permalink)

Black mold is generally easy to detect because of its appearance. But sometimes, it can become difficult. Some reasons for this include a lack of awareness or hidden areas.

Whatever your reasons, you don't have to stay in the dark any longer. We have written this article to help you understand how to detect black mold in your home, what to do when you detect mold and much more. 

Reasons You Might Have Black Mold

Black mold, also known as Stachbotrys Chartarum, is a harmful fungus that grows in greenish-black matter. It thrives in a wet environment, which is why it can be found in areas with high humidity. The primary reason you can have black mold is the presence of moisture. Moisture accumulates through different sources. 

Here are some of them:

• Water Damage: If you experience any kind of water damage, such as floods, leaks, or condensation, mold can appear if the water is not evacuated within 24- 48 hours.
• High Humidity: Humid air is thick with moisture. Therefore, when the humidity level exceeds 50%, mold growth is likely. 
• Poor Ventilation: As simple as this may sound, trapping air and moisture with no dry air can eventually cause mold growth.
• Leaks are probably the easiest to detect and fix. Wherever water drops, mold appears quickly.
• Condensation: Windows, pipes and other materials can retain moisture and eventually mold on them.

Early Signs To Watch Out For

Detecting mold early enough helps to save resources in the long term. Here are the things to look out for:

In And Out Of Your House

• Black Patches: This should be the most noticeable sign you will get. The color may not be completely black, but if it falls within the slimy category, it is most likely the fungus.
• Stains From Water: Mold has a peculiar musty odor that cannot be easily missed, especially if it is concentrated in one area.
• Water Stains: This will often point you in the right direction. Locate the source of the water stains, and you will most likely see the mold.

Found Mold? Here's what to do

Before you go rushing in, scrape out and evacuate the mold yourself. Here are a few things that will help

1. Avoid direct contact with the mold's surface. If you must touch it, wear protective gear to keep you out of harm's way.
2. Carry out a thorough inspection of other hidden areas around your house and environment to determine how far it has spread.
3. Cover the area with 6 mil plastic sheets or install barriers made from polyester. This will help check the spread. 
4. You can also create negative air pressure using a HEPA filter vacuum or a negative air machine. This will not only restrict the spread of mold but also check the spread of spores in the air.

Call SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties for Black Mold Removal

When you discover mold, it's vital to contact the professionals immediately, and that's where we come in. At SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties, our team of experts provides the best treatment for mold removal. When you choose us, you can skip options one to four and simply contact us. We will check for the source of the mold and fix it completely. You don't need to wait for it to get worse; just choose SERVPRO for mold removal.

What To Do After Water Damage In Your Home

9/20/2024 (Permalink)

One of the most devastating things you can experience is water damage in your home. Leaking appliances, broken pipes, or more serious plumbing issues can all cause significant issues. Waiting to deal with the damage can make this much worse. Mold can start growing in as little as 24 hours, even with a small amount of water. Ignoring water damage can also lead to safety hazards and structural problems. 

This is why it's crucial to do some simple steps immediately after finding a water leak in your home, regardless of the severity. Please remember that contacting a professional restoration company is crucial in almost all water damage events to ensure it's effectively dealt with. 

3 Steps To Take After Water Damage 

1. Stop the Water Flow: The first step is to identify the source of the water and try to stop it. If it's a leaky pipe, closing the valve would be the best action. If you can't identify the source, contacting the 24/7 emergency restoration experts at SERVPRO® should be your first step. 
2. Contact Insurance Company: If you're a homeowner, most water damage issues are covered by insurance. Contact your agent immediately to inquire about the policy for your type of water damage. A claim may be possible, and acting fast is the best way to make it happen. 
3. Call 24/7 Emergency Services: At SERVPRO, we offer 24/7 water damage restoration services to help you in a water emergency. We can be onsite to assist with stopping the water flow, removing the standing water, and beginning the restoration process. 

What Are The Types of Water Damage? 

Water damage is one of the most common types in commercial and residential properties. There are many things to look out for regarding water damage, including the category of water, which refers to the source of the water and any other potential contaminants. 

Category 1 Water Damage: Clean Water

This water originates from a sanitary source and poses no substantial risk if exposed. Examples include water supply lines, melting ice, rainwater, and toilet tanks. During category 1 water damage, our restoration team at SERVPRO can save and dry affected materials rather than have to replace them. 

Category 2 Water Damage: Grey Water 

This type of water damage is known as "grey" water and contains significant contaminants. If contact is made, it is more likely to cause sickness or discomfort. It can be caused by a dishwasher or washing machine overflowing, a toilet bowl overflowing after use, or hydrostatic pressure seepage. When this water damage occurs, our restoration process will be more invasive, including removing carpeting and disinfecting materials. 

Category 3 Water Damage: Black Water 

Lastly, "grossly" contaminated water is referred to as black water. This is when the water can contain extremely harmful agents that could cause adverse reactions if contact is made. Examples of this type of water damage include sewage, waste line backflows, seawater, and rain from tropical storms. 

Contact SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties 

If you're located in Newport County or Bristol County and have water damage in your residence or business, we can help. We provide 24/7 emergency water and fire damage cleanup services for properties throughout Southeast Rhode Island. For more information, please visit our website.

How Partnering with SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties Helps You Restore and Rebuild After a Disaster

2/9/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties specializes in Construction Services

When disaster strikes, the path to recovery can seem daunting. That's where SERVPRO® of Newport & Bristol Counties comes in, guiding you through the restoration and rebuilding process with expertise and compassion. Our all-encompassing approach ensures that from the moment disaster is assessed to the final touches of reconstruction, every step is handled with precision and care. This introduction sets the stage for understanding how SERVPRO's seamless integration of services not only restores your property but rebuilds your peace of mind.

Restoration and Clean-Up

At SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties, we understand the importance of a thorough and efficient cleanup process following any disaster. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of cleaning needs, from water and fire damage to mold remediation and even biohazard situations. We utilize state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to ensure your property is cleaned, sanitized, and deodorized to meet the highest standards. This foundational step is crucial in mitigating further damage and setting the stage for the rebuilding phase, ensuring a smooth transition from restoration to reconstruction. 

The Reconstruction Process

After cleanup, the reconstruction process is integral to our commitment to fully restoring your property post-disaster. This service encompasses everything from minor repairs to comprehensive rebuilding efforts, ensuring your premises are restored, making the damage "Like It Never Even Happened." The professionals at SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties are equipped to handle the reconstruction phase in full, helping alleviate the stress that comes with rebuilding after a disaster.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

When it comes to restoration after a disaster, SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties is your single point of contact when it comes to cleaning and reconstruction. By allowing SERVCPRO to be your advocate for reconstruction, you don't need to worry about managing multiple repair teams. SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties has you covered. On top of a single point of contact, SERVPRO also helps you in navigating the insurance claims process and assists in coordinating the necessary paperwork, giving you a quicker and easier experience.

Conclusion

SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties exemplifies resilience and expertise in the face of disaster, offering a comprehensive range of services from initial cleanup to complete reconstruction. With our approach and focus on quality, efficiency, and customer care, SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties not only restores properties but also peace of mind, making disasters "Like It Never Even Happened." This dedication to excellence and comprehensive support underscores why SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties is the preferred choice for disaster recovery and reconstruction. Contact us today!

What the Polar Vortex Means for Your Pipes

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

Polar Vortexes bring exceedingly cold temperatures

As the winter weather continues, "Polar Vortexes" become far more likely, signaling plummeting temperatures and severe weather conditions. This meteorological term, often associated with bone-chilling cold, can have a profound impact on daily life, particularly for homeowners and business owners. In addition to several drops in temperature to worry about, polar vortexes also heavily affect plumbing systems. As temperatures dive, the risk of pipes freezing and subsequently bursting increases, potentially leading to severely damaging water floods. Understanding the polar vortex, how it affects plumbing piping, and the necessary preventive measures are essential for bracing for the winter months. SERVPRO of Newport and Bristol Counties has crafted some preventive measures you can utilize to ensure your plumbing stays safe during the ongoing polar vortex.

Understanding the Polar Vortex and Its Impact

A polar vortex is essentially a vast expanse of swirling cold air that typically envelopes the polar regions. However, during the winter, the vortex at the North Pole often expands, pushing frigid air toward the equator and affecting much of the Northern Hemisphere. This shift can result in a sudden and steep drop in temperatures, often catching businesses and residences off-guard.

The critical issue with these plummeting temperatures is their effect on water pipes. Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can exert extraordinary pressure on pipes, regardless of whether they are made of metal or plastic. When the pressure becomes too great, pipes can burst, leading to water damage, the potential for mold growth, and the need for repairs on top of restoration and cleaning services.

Prevention and Protection

To mitigate the risks of a polar vortex freezing your pipes, consider the following preventive steps:

1. Insulate Pipes: Wrapping exposed pipes in foam insulation, particularly those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages, can significantly reduce the risk of freezing.
2. Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperature: Keeping your home heated consistently, even when you're away, helps keep the internal temperature of pipes above freezing.
3. Allow Faucets to Drip: Allowing a slight drip in faucets can prevent pressure buildup within pipes, reducing the risk of freezing and bursting.
4. Drain Water from Pools and Sprinklers: Drain water from the swimming pool and sprinkler supply lines following the manufacturer's instructions.
5. Close Inside Valves Supplying Outdoor Hose Bibs: After removing and draining outdoor hoses, close the inside valves that supply these bibs but leave the outside valve open.
6. Insulate Vulnerable Spaces: Increase insulation in areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces to maintain higher temperatures.
7. Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing by opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors.

The polar vortex, while a natural weather phenomenon, poses a significant challenge to plumbing, particularly regarding the risk of frozen and bursting pipes. By understanding this meteorological event and taking proactive, preventative measures, you can safeguard your home against the potentially devastating and costly consequences. Prevention actions are far more effective and less costly than repair. Stay warm, stay informed, and prepare your home for whatever the winter brings. 

Should you incur any water or storm damage during the Polar Vortex, feel free to contact SERVPRO of Newport and Bristol Counties, and we'll make it "Like It Never Even Happened!"

Common Locations That Leak During a Storm | SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage is just one of the many effects storms can have on your home, but we are here to help! Call SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties today.

Rain, snow, sleet and hail can all impact our homes in different ways. While certain damage situations are obvious and can leave you with noticeable damage, other issues can be lurking just out of sight.

Tracking down a water leak during a storm can help you minimize damage and can help you stay in control of the situation. We explain the most common areas in your home to check during a weather event so you can stop a water issue in its tracks. 

Your Windows and Doors

Our homes do a really good job of protecting us against the elements, but they aren’t invincible. Anywhere that has direct access to outside has the potential to leak. Windows and doors can have gaps that form around them, whether it be due to aging structures or improperly installed materials.

In any case, even the smallest crack can lead to a water leak if the rain is blown against your windows. In addition, any exterior doors can also become vulnerable to water issues. Water can get up underneath your threshold and lead to warping, sagging or even rot problems. 

Up on Your Roof

We rely on our roofs on a daily basis to keep us dry and safe during severe weather, but they can also suffer damage if the conditions are right. A single weather event can lead to broken or missing shingles, but it can also lead to serious impact damage if a tree or other heavy object falls on it.

If the leak isn’t caught in time or is outwardly noticeable, the water leak can slowly drip down your attic walls and can infiltrate virtually every room in your home. It can sag floors, ruin drywall and even compromise the joists behind your walls and under your floors. 

Along Your Foundation 

If you live in a low-lying area or have trouble keeping your carpet dry when it rains, you know all about the importance of keeping your foundation dry. If the rain falls heavy and fast enough, it can overwhelm your gutters and pour over the side of your home. This water can leak down your foundation and can soak your carpet and other materials in your lowest level. 

Suffering water damage during a storm can be really frustrating, especially if the situation left you with standing water or extensive issues. Contact our water damage restoration team for an immediate drying, cleaning and restoration and we will work hard to make sure you recover right away. 

Our team can help you overcome water damage. Contact SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties today.

What to Do After Suffering a Disaster at Your Business | SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties

11/17/2023 (Permalink)

Has a recent disaster caused damage to your business's building? We have your back. Call SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties today!

You are busy enough on a daily basis worrying about your day-to-day tasks and managing your staff that it can be easy to overlook the importance of planning for disaster. While you may occasionally think about what a property fire could do to your building or what you would do if a huge storm was barreling towards our community, these scenarios are probably not at the forefront of your mind all the time.

If a disaster does occur at your business, you could be left with a huge mess on your hands, an extensive recovery and lots of questions from your staff and customers. Let us help you handle your restoration and make life a little easier.

SERVPRO® of Newport & Bristol Counties is proud to offer our full restoration and cleaning services to the businesses and commercial properties in our community. 

Dealing With Large Losses

We are highly trained to handle every kind of home and weather disaster imaginable, so there is no disaster situation that is too large or too destructive for us to handle. We have a large-loss division that is in charge of handling large disaster situations from start to finish.

We will outline your recovery timeline, and our project manager will oversee every part of your recovery. We have worked with many different kinds of businesses and properties before from hospitals and universities to stadiums and government buildings. We will work methodically through your recovery so we can ensure that every step is being taken care of. 

Creating an Emergency Ready Plan 

Once we help you overcome your disaster situations, we can help you take steps to prevent the situation from happening again. Our team is trained to help local businesses create an Emergency Ready Plan that outlines the various possible threats to your business and what to do if something were to happen unexpectedly.

We will assess your property and create a step-by-step guide that will tell you what to do before, during and after a particular disaster. It will include an overview of your emergency exits, a guide outlining who to call and when, and instructions for what to do to prepare for the next disaster at hand. 

Our team is here for you to help you recover from disaster, but we are also here to help you prevent future disaster scenarios at your business. 

Our commercial services team can help you overcome damage. Call SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties right away!

Tackle Your Construction Projects With Our Help | SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Need a team you can trust with your home? Call SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties for all your construction and remodeling needs!

One of the best things about being a homeowner is all of the fun DIY projects that you get to tackle and work on. Personalizing your home is a great way to not only enjoy where you live, but it can also increase your home’s value if you were to ever sell or move.

However, not all of us are equipped to tackle every self-proclaimed DIY project that the internet offers. If you find yourself standing in your demoed bathroom with a hammer and a wall full of holes, you might be starting to wonder if you made a mistake. 

Not to fear! SERVPRO® of Newport & Bristol Counties is here to take over. In addition to our full-service restoration abilities, we can also handle your remodel needs.

What Our Construction Team Can Do
We know that we are probably most well-known for providing high quality restoration services to homeowners and business owners in the southeastern Rhode Island community. We are proud of that, but we are also highly trained in the latest and most advanced construction methods. We can handle any sort of DIY project gone wrong or that remodel that you are dreaming of. 

We will work alongside you to create a construction plan based on your home’s layout and your vision, and we will get to work on any restoration, demoing and reconstruction that needs to be done. Our team will even handle things like dust control, tarping and odor removal needs along the way.

We Will Finish That Build on Time 

Our team fully understands that home remodel projects almost always take more time than you originally anticipated, which is why we would love to take it off your hands. We follow a very detailed plan and our team is highly trained and knowledgeable about all kinds of construction requirements.

We won’t hesitate about any sort of repair, whether it is something as small as drywall patching or as large as marble floor repair.

We also know what to do if we encounter something unexpected while on the job site or if we have to adjust plans based on changing circumstances. That won’t keep us from finishing what we started!

We are proud of the services we provide to our community, and we won’t stop working and rebuilding until you are completely satisfied with the final product. You can count on us for all your construction and restoration needs any day of the week.

On the hunt for a construction team that you can trust? Contact SERVPRO of Newport & Bristol Counties today.