Archived Water Damage Blog Posts
A Timeline of Water Damage
9/27/2023 (Permalink)
Don't wait for water damage to get exponentially worse. Call us today!
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. We arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. Here is some information on the timeline of a water damage event.
Within Minutes
Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
In the event you sustain water damage for any length of time, SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is here to help.
Sump Pump Maintenance Checklist for Ozaukee County Homeowners
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
Maintaining your sump pump could potentially save thousands in water damage.
When was the last time you maintained your sump pump? Here are some tips to show your sump pump some love and keep your basement dry.
- Make sure your sump pump is totally upright. Your sump pump should be sitting on solid, even ground. Any sort of leaning can shift the water in the pump’s pit and put unnecessary pressure on its components.
- Open it up. Take the cover off the sump pump pit or basin and have a look inside. Clear any debris, mud or rocks that you find, as any foreign items can clog your sump pump and cause an overflow.
- Double-check the drain hose. Check to make sure the drain hose is connected, and that it’s not blocked or frozen. A clogged drain hose can cause your sump pump to run continuously, as it won’t be able to dispose of the water that’s filled its pit.
- Clear out the inlet screen. Make sure the inlet screen is allowing water to enter your sump pump’s pit. If your inlet screen is blocked, water won’t be able to make its way into the sump pump’s pit and could lead to a basement flood.
- Keep it afloat. Your sump pump’s float controls when it will turn on and pump excess water out. Make sure the float component can move freely and isn’t blocked. A malfunctioning float can cause your pump to not run when it’s supposed to, or run constantly, eventually burning out your pump’s engine.
- Make sure it’s flowing away from your house. The next time you hear your sump pump running, go outside and make sure its discharge pipe is pumping the water away from your home at a safe distance. If it’s too close, the water could seep back into your pump, causing your pump to run continuously and inefficiently. The more your sump pump runs, the more likely it is to burn out early in its life span. While you don’t want your discharge pipe too close to your house, shed, garage or other structure, make sure it does stay on your property. You’ll have some unhappy neighbors if your sump pump is pushing your excess water onto their lot.
- Give your sump pump a test run. Fill the pit with a bucket of water to turn your pump on. Watch it carefully to see if it’s getting rid of the water, then check the discharge pipe outside to make sure it’s disposed of properly. If the pump doesn’t run, make sure it’s plugged in and its power cord is in working order.
- Plan for the unexpected. Having a backup battery or generator can be crucial if a strong rain storm comes complete with a power outage. And eventually, your sump pump may give out without the help of a power outage. To avoid the stress of trying to buy and install a new sump pump while the water seeps closer and closer to your basement, have a backup sump pump handy — and be sure to test it regularly, too.
- Call a professional. You’ve checked the power cords, discharge pipe, inlet screen and every other piece of the pump, but still can’t figure out what’s wrong. It’s time to call a professional! Risking your basement and everything else in it isn’t worth maintaining your pride as a handyman or woman — get it fixed and fast!
If worse comes to worst, and you do have a backup and need assistance with damage from water or sewage, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County for 24/7 help at (262) 242-8888.
Flood Insurance and Water Backup Coverage: What’s the Difference?
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
Water in your basement? The professionals at SERVPRO of Ozaukee County are here to help!
Spring and Summer in Ozaukee County is a happy time for so many home and business owners who are ready for warmer weather, and sunshine! We Midwesterners look forward to that first day on or in the water. So what happens when that water we love so much finds its way into our basements? How can property owners recover losses to their property from flood waters?
Water/Sewer Backup Coverage
Most homeowners insurance policies come with an optional endorsement for water backup and sump discharge/overflow which will cover losses, up to a certain limit, caused by the backup of water or waterborne materials through a sewer or through a drain. It will also cover water or waterborne material that overflows from a sump, even if the backup of water is due to the mechanical breakdown of the sump pump. Coverage includes damage to property but excludes the sump pump and any related equipment that has broken down. Contact your insurance professional for more information about this coverage and its limits.
The endorsement does not cover damages caused by a flood. A separate flood insurance policy needs to be obtained to cover losses due to flooding.
Flood Insurance
What is a flood? The dictionary defines “flood” as rising and overflowing of water onto normally dry land. For the purpose of insurance, “rising” is the key to distinguish flood damage from water damage. Basically damage that has occurred from water that has been on the ground at some point before causing damage to your home is considered flood damage, and would not be covered by your homeowners insurance policy.
Flooding can happen anywhere; even if your home is not in a flood plain. Flood insurance is available to all homeowners who live in a participating community, which must enforce floodplain ordinances and building requirements that meet or exceed FEMA guidelines. If your community does not participate in the NFIP, you can make a request for it to do so through your mayor, city council or county commissioner’s office. Contact your insurance professional for more information about this coverage and its limits.
In the event you do sustain property damage from any type of flooding, SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is here to help. We are available 24/7/365 at 262-242-8888 for your emergencies.
Ejector Pump Vs Sump Pump: What's the Difference?
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is here to help take the stress out of water damage clean up. We are available 24/7/365.
EJECTOR PUMP
Most homes are built so gravity can transport waste to the sewer system. For this to be possible, the home must be higher than the sewer pipes so the waste can drain properly. Sometimes, however, this isn’t possible because of a home’s location or because of plumbing in the basement that reaches deeper than the main sewer lines. In these instances, an ejector pump, sometimes called a sewage pump, is used to force sewage out of the home’s plumbing.
One of the biggest differences between an ejector pump and a sump pump is that an ejector pump has the ability to move solid waste with water pressure. The ejector pump breaks up solid waste to force it farther down the line and out to the main sewer. Without an ejector pump, basement bathrooms and any plumbing below the main sewer level would be unable to clear waste. The result would be sewage backing up into the home.
SUMP PUMP
A sump pump provides a different function than an ejector pump. Sump pumps do not deal with waste or sewage at all. Instead, a sump pump sits in a pit beneath your home. This pit is drainage for excess water that builds up during rainstorms, snowmelt, or flooding of any sort. When excess water accumulates in your sump pit, the sump pump expels the water out through pipes that drain to an exterior location far enough from your home to not cause any issues or backflow. Without a sump pump, basements could be flooded every time it rains. A sump pump ensures that you keep a dry home, even when torrential storms rage outside.
Sump pumps are mostly found in wet climates or where basements are prevalent. They are less common in dry areas or where basements are not popular.
Sump pumps cannot be joined to a sewer line. Instead, they must drain outside. Sump pumps also cannot handle debris. They generally have a screen or grate on the intake so the pump doesn’t suck up anything that could damage and ruin the pump. Sump pumps are meant to transport water only.
While each of these is important in its own right, ejector pumps and sump pumps are different tools that perform very different jobs. Ejector pumps push waste and sewage uphill to remove it from plumbing that’s below the main sewer level. Sump pumps stop your basement from flooding by evacuating water that accumulates from natural sources. If you require one of these pumps but don’t have it, the results could be disastrous.
In the event you do sustain damage from a failed ejector pump or sump pump, SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is here to help 24/7/365. Give us a call at 262-242-8888 for a no-cost assessment of your water damage situation.
Water Damage Timeline
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
Water Damage doesn't wait, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County now!
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. We arrive quickly and start the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. Here is some information on the timeline of a water damage event.
Within Minutes
Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.
Hours 1 - 24:
Drywall begins to swell and break down.
Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
Furniture begins to swell and crack.
Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
A musty odor appears.
48 Hours to 1 Week:
Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
Metal begins to rust and corrode.
Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
Paint begins to blister.
Wood flooring swells and warps.
Serious biohazard contamination is possible.
More Than 1 Week:
Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.
In the event you sustain water damage for any length of time, SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is here to help. Call us today at 262-242-8888 for a no-cost assessment of your damage.
Water Damage in Ozaukee County: 3 Categories To Know
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
Often, water damage spreads to areas that cannot be seen. Call an expert for help to ensure all moisture has been removed.
At SERVPRO of Ozaukee County, we pride ourselves on being the experts in water damage remediation. We ensure our technicians are educated by requiring them to become certified by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration (IICRC) as Water Restoration Technicians. This gives them the ability to classify and categorize the type of water damage a property may have. With regard to infiltration, there are three categories of water. Knowing what these are and how to properly mitigate their damage is paramount to restoring your home or business to a healthy, safe state.
Category 1
Water originates from a sanitary water source and does not pose substantial risk from dermal, ingestion, or inhalation exposure. Examples include but are not limited to:
Broken water supply lines; tub or sink overflows with no contaminants; appliance malfunctions involving water-supply lines; melting ice or snow; falling rainwater; broken toilet tanks, and toilet bowls that do not contain contaminants or additives.
Category 2
Water contains significant contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans. Category 2 water can contain potentially unsafe levels of microorganisms or nutrients for microorganisms, as well as other organic or inorganic matter (chemical or biological). Examples include but are not limited to:
Discharge from dishwashers or washing machines, overflows from washing machines, overflows from toilet bowls on the room side of the trap with some urine
Category 3
Water is grossly contaminated and can contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents and can cause significant adverse reactions to humans if contacted or consumed. Examples include but are not limited to:
Sewage; waste line backflows that originate from beyond any trap regardless of visible content or color; all forms of flooding from seawater; rising water from rivers or streams; and other contaminated water entering or affecting the indoor environment, such as wind-driven rain from hurricanes, tropical storms, or other weather-related events.
Category 3 water can carry trace levels of regulated or hazardous materials (e.g., pesticides or toxic organic substances).
In the unfortunate event that you experience water damage, call the experts at SERVPRO of Ozaukee County to help. We have the training and expertise to make sure your home or business is safe and clean. We are available 24/7/365 for your emergencies at 262-242-8888.
Water Damage from Sprinkler Systems: Cause and Effect
7/28/2022 (Permalink)
Inspection, testing and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems, along with adequate building heat, can help reduce the risk of future water damage.
An automatic sprinkler system is a very valuable tool in fire suppression and prevention. Even so, by some uncontrollable event or if not properly maintained, these systems may fail. This failure could result in disaster by fire or from serious water damage from the sprinklers if water is unexpectedly released.
Common Causes for Sprinkler System Failures
- Freezing of water filled pipes
- Overheating from excessive temperatures
- Corrosion of sprinklers, fittings, pipes, and other components
- Environmental stress cracking of PVC plastic sprinkler pipe and fittings
- Manufacturing defects, including recalled sprinklers
Potential Hazards of Water Damage
- Damage - Destruction to property
- Disruption - Loss of use of property during repairs
- Health Effects - Mold can develop causing health hazards
- Costs - Repair and/or replacement of sprinkler system
- Reputation - Lost customers or tenants due to unusable space
Prevention Tips
- Ensure installations are completed by experienced and licensed contractors
- Take action to reduce chances of system freezing
- Call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County if water damage is experienced in your facility.
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County has the experience and professional staff to bring your property back to its pre loss condition quickly and efficiently. Call 262-242-8888 today for a free assessment of your damage.
Water Heater Failure
7/9/2021 (Permalink)
Water heaters have a shelf life. The current thought is that they will last for up to 10 years. Even if your water heater is not giving you a problem, the current thought is to replace them every 10 years. You might want to use a black magic marker and write the installation date right on the water heater. That way you will know when it is time to replace it. If your budget allows, you might want to consider a tankless water heater which can last as many as 20 years.
If you are not sure how to find out how old your water heater is, you can look up the serial number on the manufacturer’s sticker near the top of the water heater. But age isn’t the only thing that can cause a water heater to malfunction. You should inspect it regularly to check for signs of moisture build-up, mold or corrosion. If your water isn’t as hot as it used to be or if there’s rust coming from your faucets you should call your trusted plumber. It is much cheaper to maintain your water heater than to have to deal with a water loss. However, if your water heater fails, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888. We can extract the unwanted water and dry out your basement.
Washing Machine Leaks
7/9/2021 (Permalink)
Most people don’t think twice about their washing machines unless there is a problem. If your washing machine breaks, and you end up with a water loss, that’s where SERVPRO of Ozaukee County can help!!!
For example, if the supply hose is damaged or has a faulty connection to either the wall or the washing machine, more than 600 gallons of water could potentially spill out within an hour. If this happens when you are away from home, you could have a major water loss. If your washing machine is located upstairs, the damage could be even worse by getting two levels of your home exposed to massive water damage.
Any amount of water could lead to significant damage. Even small amounts of water can cause problems. The sooner you get your house dried out; you will be able to decrease the likelihood that mold will grow.
To prevent water damage, you should replace your washing machine supply hose at least once every five years. It is important not to overload your washing machine. Constantly stuffing too many clothes into your washing machine could loosen gaskets and valves or even cause cracks.
If you maintain your washing machine you should have years of problem free washes.
Taking First Steps When Your Basement Floods
7/2/2021 (Permalink)
- If your basement floods, make sure to shut off any power around the flooded area, including electricity and gas. Never enter a flooded area while the power is on. If you need help shutting off the power, call a qualified electrician before entering the room and beginning the cleanup work.
- It is best to wear boots and gloves for protection when you enter the basement. You may also want to wear a protective mask. In extreme cases, you may want to wear hip or chest waders. And be careful when walking around the flooded area since the water may hide items that you can’t see in dim light.
- Take action as soon as you notice flooding unless the cause is rain. In that case, wait for the rain to stop before beginning the cleanup work. If a pipe bursts, shut the water off to the basement right away.
- If your basement has a floor drain, check it out to make sure it didn’t become clogged during the flood. If it did, call a plumber right away. After the plumber unclogs the drain, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County to dry and sanitize your basement. 262-242-8888. We are a phone call away and eager to help in any situation.
Water Damage Prevention
7/2/2021 (Permalink)
Here at SERVPRO of Ozaukee, we are trained Water Damage specialists, and we compiled a small list on how to help prevent water damage from happening often in your home:
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts - Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid blockage. Standing water can cause damage to your gutters and roof. Don’t forget to clean downspouts to ensure water can flow through, and secure downspouts so that they point away from the home.
- Know your Water Main - Know the location of your water main and shut it off if you leave for an extended amount of time.
- Check Appliances Regularly - Check and maintain your appliances regularly for leaks according to manufacturer’s directions.
- Investigate Leaks Right Away and Fix Promptly - If you choose to ignore any water damage, or postpone making the necessary repairs, you may experience mold, mildew, dry rot, or even structural damage to your home.
- Check Your Water Pressure - If the water pressure to your home is too high, then your pipes and hoses may fail under the high pressure. Buy a water pressure gauge at a local hardware store, attach it to an outside faucet, and turn the faucet to full force. The gauge will give you a reading of the home’s water pressure. Typical homes’ water systems are designed for pressure of 40 – 70 psi. Anything above 70 psi will put your plumbing at risk.
- Monitor Your Water Bill - Sometimes, the only way you know that water is leaking is taking a closer look at your water bill. If your usage jumps significantly from one month to the next, then there is probably a leak somewhere in the home.
For help restoring your home or business after a water loss, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at (262) 242-8888. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”
Flooding and Water Emergencies
7/2/2021 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait to occur during regular business hours and neither do we.
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.
Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home or business and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.
Our SERVPRO of Ozaukee County staff is highly trained in property damage restoration.
With ongoing training from our SERVPRO Headquarters and from the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge and tools to restore your property.
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and restoration costs.
Have an Emergency Service?
Call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County. We are available 24/7 at 262-242-8888.
Water Water Everywhere
12/18/2020 (Permalink)
Water sustains life. But too much water, at one time, or at the wrong place spells trouble. That’s where SERVPRO of Ozaukee County comes in. We are here to help with all your water needs. Whether you have a flooded basement, a leaky roof, or a washing machine that overflowed, we can clean up the mess and dry out your structure.
The faster you have the water cleaned up, the less chance there is for extended damage. Your insurance carrier will want to know if you took care of your structure in a timely manner. Or did you let the water sit there allowing secondary damage to occur, or even mold to build up. We can take care of any moisture problem that you have. Call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888 and we will come to your home or business and extract water, place drying equipment, and get you back to preloss condition as soon as possible.
Flooded Basements
7/22/2020 (Permalink)
A basement can flood at any time depending upon variable circumstances. Heavy rainfall is only one of those circumstances. 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. Some other reasons for a flooded basement are:
- 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
- Have Questions about Basement Flooding? Call 262-242-8888.
- We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
- We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We bill The Insurance Company Directly – One Less thing for you to worry about
- Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use IICRC S500 Restoration Standards
- We Use Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
- Call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County today at 262-242-8888 to 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.
Who Will Answer Your Call 24/7?
7/22/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Ozaukee will Answer the Phone, 24/7 Ready to Help!!! Call Today - 262-242-8888.
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable because there is water everywhere. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County has a real person answering the phone who has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect:
When you call, we will ask you several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask you several questions:
- Your name and contact information
- Your insurance information (if applicable)
- The street address of the water-damaged home or business
- When did the flooding or water damage occur?
- What caused the water damage (if known)?
- Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Ozaukee County:
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property. Just call 262-242-8888 for immediate help with your water loss.
Is Your Central Air Conditioning Leaking?
7/21/2020 (Permalink)
The dog days of summer are upon us with high heat and humidity. Thank Goodness for central air conditioning. However, your central air conditioner is also a dehumidifier. The moist air condenses into water as it is cooled inside the unit. The moisture collects and drains through a hose or tubing into a nearby drain. If this drain line becomes obstructed with dust, debris and/or microbial growth (mold/mildew), the water will backup and seek another path to flow.
Typically the HVAC unit is in a closet or behind a partition wall adjacent to a finished living space and this moisture seeps undetected into the nearby carpet and pad. It won’t take long for the moisture to generate microbial growth in the pad/carpet which will generate that unpleasant musty, mil-dewy odor. It is also possible for water to damage the air conditioner, depending upon the path it travels.
So it is a good idea to check those drain lines at the onset of high heat and humidity. If nothing is trickling out of the end of the line, you better call an HVAC Tech and find out why. The longer it goes undetected, the greater the damage and cost. Some individuals may be quite sensitive to toxic organisms that thrive in these cool, quiet and moist conditions. Be sure to call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888 if you need any help assessing possible water problems.
Understanding Moisture Readings
7/20/2020 (Permalink)
I was told of a very successful window salesman. He would use a ‘Heat Loss’ detector to show the prospective buyer how much heat his existing drafty windows were losing. As he waved the instrument across the glass, the needle would jump alarmingly! So, obviously new windows will make a huge difference, practically pay for themselves, right? Perhaps. But you wouldn’t see a difference in heat loss using the same instrument. He was using a light meter, measuring light – nothing to do with temperature.
Similarly, it helps to understand the instruments we use to measure moisture. A surface can feel dry to the touch, but still contain and conceal underlying moisture content. Instruments are necessary to detect this hidden moisture so we can determine what is necessary to dry it, and confirm that the material/space is indeed drying.
We can use a Forward Looking Infra Red (FLIR) camera to view an area and determine at a glance what is wet. Typically, wet areas will show up in shades of blue with dry areas showing orange to red. But while the areas are indeed wet, what is actually being measured is evaporation. Evaporation lowers temperature and the FLIR camera can detect this temperature difference between the wet and dry areas. You could be misled if you don’t understand this. For example, in winter, a poorly insulated – but dry, exterior wall will have areas cooler, thus blue, than the surrounding (orange) areas of adequate insulation. The camera shows blotches of blue in an orange field even though the wall is dry.
Other instruments measure electrical conductivity. Water readily conducts electricity. So an instrument using (invasive) metal pin probes will detect current readily flowing from one probe to the other. For example, wet drywall will readily conduct electricity and the more saturated the material, the better the current flows from one pin to the other, and the higher the corresponding reading of moisture. However, if the probes hit an underlying metal corner bead, the current will also flow through the metal and result in a corresponding ‘wet’ reading.
There are non-invasive instruments that measure conductivity with a localized charged field they create. However, a hidden metal pipe, or metal concrete wire reinforcing will conduct current and register a false reading of ‘wet’.
Lastly, these meters typically have a ‘test’ button to determine battery status. If the batteries are good, pushing this button will move the needle accordingly. But pushing this button while probing will also result in a fraudulent reading of wet.
I once noticed an episode of NCIS where they were using a yellow moisture meter, similar to one we use, to measure radioactivity! Of course they were merely pushing the ‘Test’ button.
Why You Need a Sense of Urgency!
7/16/2020 (Permalink)
It is recommended you get multiple bids before making a major purchase and this is good advice in most cases. However, this is very bad advice when it comes to water damage to your home or business. Water damage requires immediate attention in order to minimize the total cost of damage and subsequent repairs. The source of the infiltration needs to be stopped, then extraction of as much remaining water as possible, with aggressive drying to follow, ASAP!
This necessary mitigation prevents further damage from occurring, thus limiting the scope of repair necessary to make it "Like it never even happened." Your Insurance Agent can confirm and explain why you are, in fact, obligated by the terms of your policy to take the reasonable steps necessary to secure your property, preventing further damage from occurring. Ideally, timely mitigation can make demolition unnecessary, reducing costs and disruption to your home or business.
Ozaukee County Residents: We specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup
1/20/2020 (Permalink)
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 Ozaukee County 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 -262-242-8888.
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 Ozaukee County 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 262-242-8888.
Check Your Sump Pump
12/26/2019 (Permalink)
Check Your Sump Pump!
CHECK YOUR SUMP PUMP!!!
I like to tell our clients that all sump pumps fail; it is just a matter of time.
I hear things like, "We just moved in to our house and the home inspector did not find anything wrong with it." Or, "It was replaced a couple of years ago after a major water loss."
The truth is, the ground can shift, your house can shift, the PVC piping can crack or break, the rain can come down so hard that the sump pump can be overwhelmed and can't keep up and can flood the room. If you have a finished basement it makes it worse.
If your sump pump fails, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888. We will come prepared to extract water, remove baseboards, drywall, wet carpet or pad, etc. We will use our professional water meters to determine how wet the room is and how many machines will be needed to dry it to stop any further damage. This is the mitigation phase and it usually takes three (3) to five (5) days of drying but may take longer. We will come to your home or business every day to check the dryness until all drying goals have been met.
After all drying goals are met, the rebuild phase happens. If you choose SERVPRO of Ozaukee County to do your rebuild, we will put everything back the way it was, or better. We frequently replace drywall, paint walls and ceilings, stretch or replace carpet and pad, clean rugs, or put in new cabinets or counter tops, ceilings, or ceiling tiles, etc. The rebuild phase can take a month or two or longer depending upon our work load and our subcontractors’ availability. Be sure to ask whoever does your rebuild, how long will this take?
OH NO! Water Water Everywhere
7/3/2019 (Permalink)
Flooding and water emergencies always happen at the worst times. That is because there is no good time for a water emergency! That is also why SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is available for emergency services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including holidays.
Faster To Any Size Disaster
Water can spread quickly. It is important to dry up the water right away so that it doesn’t ruin floors, walls and furniture. The wood legs of furniture can bleed into the carpet causing permanent stains. Our water extraction process along with setting up the appropriate number of machines will minimize the damage and help to keep the costs down. Restoration costs can increase dramatically if the water is left without drying. Structural rebuilding may become extensive and expensive!
If you need emergency services, please call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888. Letting the water sit there, even for a couple of days, can cause mold to grow. Doors, windows and studs begin to swell and warp. Metal can rust and corrode. Paint begins to blister and wood flooring can be ruined. If the water stays in the structure for a week or more, biohazard contamination is possible.
About SERVPRO of Ozaukee County
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
From Water Loss to Rebuild
7/1/2019 (Permalink)
This picture shows the Family Room after the rebuild was completed.
About a year ago, Bill and Jan Callaway, the owners of SERVPRO of Ozaukee County, had a major water loss in their Mequon home from a faucet that was left on all night. The water ran down from the Master Bathroom upstairs, to the Family Room and Kitchen one floor below.
The ceiling in the Family Room was collapsing when the owner found the water loss in the morning. They immediately called the team at SERVPRO of Ozaukee County who came out to the house for an inspection. When the crew arrived, they determined that the ceiling would have to be removed and the flooring below which was ruined would have to be removed. Because of the tremendous amount of water, they spent two days removing the ceiling and the floor. They continued to dry the structure for another two or three days. Once the ceiling and flooring were removed drying went significantly faster.
An air scrubber was used to cut down on the dust in the air from the removal of the drywall. Dehumidifiers and large fans were used to dry the structure. After everything was dry the Production Manager had a drywall team put in new drywall, a painting team paint the new drywall and adjoining walls, and a flooring team put in new floors.
As owners we were bursting with pride at how well our SERVPRO of Ozaukee team did on our water loss and rebuild. Even if I weren't the owner, I would be singing their praises and recommending them for water losses. Thank you team for a job well done!
Water Damage to Home in Mequon
5/1/2018 (Permalink)
Drywall removed from part of the ceiling in the family room.
This family’s Mequon residence experienced serious water damage after a faucet was left on in an upstairs bathroom. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County has the expertise and equipment to mitigate residential water losses just like this one.
In this particular situation, the water went from the upstairs bathroom down through the floor and into the ceiling of the family room and kitchen below. The family room ceiling and one wall were saturated and had to be removed. The flooring below was ruined and both the ceiling, wall and the flooring had to be replaced. After replacing the drywall the painters came and painted. Finally the floors were installed and the drapes were hung. The furniture was put back and the family was very grateful to be able to use the space again.
What to Expect
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
- Your name and contact information
- Your insurance information (if applicable)
- The street address of the water-damaged home
- When did the flooding or water damage occur?
- What caused the water damage (if known)?
- Is there electricity available (on-site)?
Faster to Any Size Emergency
In many cleaning and restoration situations, immediate action is needed. Water is particularly invasive, quickly spreading throughout your property and being absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately.
For help restoring your home after a water loss, call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County at 262-242-8888. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”
When a SERVPRO Owner Has a Water Loss Part 2
5/1/2018 (Permalink)
Now I know what other people go through when they have a water loss. It is loud. It is disruptive. And did I say it was LOUD???
We had dehumidifiers on two levels and lots of air blowers (big giant fans) on two levels. You could not hear yourself think. We had to shout over the noise. The dog wouldn't stop barking and she was very nervous. We chose not to kennel her (big mistake) so we took her to work with us every day. Eventually, she calmed down but she hated the noise as much as we did.
Fortunately, our technicians were wonderful. They put us at ease and they were very upbeat and considerate. They removed all our paperwork from on top of my desk, magazines and bills from off our kitchen table and boxed up everything else. They carefully removed all the pictures from the walls and put them adjoining rooms. Even though our ceiling was saturated with a ton of water they dried it completely within three or four days. Finally, they removed the floors in the family room and kitchen. We are now looking forward to the rebuild process. I hear it will be noisy too. At least we have a few days in-between the noise. Look for Part 3, The Rebuild!
Opening a water line after a cold winter
4/27/2018 (Permalink)
It looks like spring has finally arrived in Wisconsin. It is time to go down to the basement and open up the valves in the water lines going to the outside spigots. If water was trapped between the valve and the spigot during the freezing temperatures that we experienced this past winter, it could have caused the water to freeze and create cracks in the water line.
We suggest that you inspect the water line before opening the valve. Then open up the valve and wait a few minutes to see if there are any leaks in the line. At this time of the year we receive calls from customers who opened the valve and immediately went upstairs. Hours or days later they discover their basements are flooded causing extensive damage. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County can dry out and restore the basement “like it never even happened.” However, it is less costly and less stressful, to find and stop any water leaks as soon as possible and definitely before they flood your basement.
Flooded Basements in Mequon, Wisconsin
4/13/2018 (Permalink)
4/13/18
A basement can flood at any time depending upon variable circumstances. Heavy rainfall is only one of those circumstances. 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. Some other reasons for a flooded basement are:
- 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
- Call SERVPRO of Ozaukee County today at 262-242-8888 to 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:
- 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 and contents. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.
- Have Questions about Basement Flooding? Call 262-242-8888.
- We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
- We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
- We Bill The Insurance Company Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
- Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
- We use IICRC S500 Restoration Standards
- We Use Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment
- Restoring Your Mequon Community Commercial Property After A Water Damage Event
- Restoring Commercial Properties Presents Unique Challenges About SERVPRO of Ozaukee County
- SERVPRO of Ozaukee County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of commercial and residential property after a water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
- Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environmental concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.
- Commercial Approved Flooding and water damage events at Mequon community commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and flexible response. Whether we’re dealing with a relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many instances, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.
- Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 262-242-8888
Top of Form
When a SERVPRO Owner has a Water Loss Part 1
4/13/2018 (Permalink)
A water loss is disruptive, noisy, stressful and did I mention LOUD???
As a SERVPRO owner, I recently woke up to rushing water overflowing from a sink in our upstairs bathroom. We're talking Niagara Falls. Apparently, we had not turned off the faucet after getting a drink of water in the middle of the night. Then when I woke up and walked into the bathroom, I walked onto completely soaked rugs and about 1/2 inch of water all over the bathroom floor. I immediately turned off the faucet and opened up the cabinet beneath the sink. More water came pouring out. I began putting towels on the floor to keep the water from flowing into our bedroom.
I could see that a lot of work would need to be done. Still being very sleepy, I decided to look at the first floor a little, hoping that the water had not gone downstairs. An hour later, I discovered my worst fears. The water had indeed traveled downstairs through the ceiling in our family room as well as a light/fan fixture in our kitchen.
The light fixture was pouring water all over the kitchen table and had already ruined mail, newspapers, magazines, etc. A couple of chairs and a couch were soaked. What a mess!! The water was all over the floor even worse than it had been upstairs. The carpet was soaked in the family room and stained from the orange water still dripping through the ceiling. The kitchen linoleum was flooded but I put a dozen large bath towels on the floor to soak up as much water as possible.
Next I called our insurance agent to get a Claim number and then I called our SERVPRO of Ozaukee Production team. They came right out and were wonderful. I got to see them in action at a water loss from the very beginning.
When they have finished the mitigation I will write another blog describing what they did. Stay tuned!!!
Ozaukee County 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service
4/10/2018 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.
We Answer the Phone, Ready to Help!!!
Call Today - 262-242-8888
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Ozaukee County has a real person answering the phone who has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.
What to Expect:
When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:
- Your name and contact information
- Your insurance information (if applicable)
- The street address of the water-damaged home or business
- When did the flooding or water damage occur?
- What caused the water damage (if known)?
- Is there electricity available (on-site)?
About SERVPRO of Ozaukee County:
SERVPRO of Ozaukee County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.
Thiensville Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!
6/29/2016 (Permalink)
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 Thiensville 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 - 262-242-8888
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 Ozaukee and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the tust 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 262-242-8888
24/7 Emergency Service
