Protecting Your Home's Gutters: Avoiding Costly Water Damage

9/2/2024 (Permalink)

Your home's gutters play a crucial role in directing rainwater away from your property. However, many homeowners overlook the importance of regular gutter maintenance, which can lead to serious issues, including water damage. Understanding the risks of neglected gutters and taking proactive measures can save you from costly repairs down the road. Here are a few tips to help protect your home and prevent water damage from occurring.

1. Regular Cleaning and Inspection

Over time, leaves, debris, and dirt can accumulate in your gutters, causing clogs. When gutters are clogged, rainwater can overflow and spill down the sides of your house. This excess water can seep into your foundation, leading to cracks and potential flooding in basements or crawl spaces. To prevent this, it is essential to clean your gutters at least twice a year and inspect them for any signs of damage, such as rust, cracks, or sagging.

2. Install Gutter Guards

Gutter guards can help keep leaves and large debris out of your gutters while still allowing water to flow freely. These protective covers reduce the frequency of cleaning and help prevent clogs. This small investment can go a long way in maintaining the health of your gutters and protecting your home.

3. Ensure Proper Downspout Placement

The placement and functionality of downspouts are critical to gutter performance. Ensure that downspouts are directing water at least six feet away from your foundation. If they are too close, the water can pool around the base of your home, causing foundation damage, mold growth, and other moisture-related problems.

SERVPRO of Cypress Can Help Mitigate Water Damage

Despite best efforts, water damage can still occur due to clogged or improperly maintained gutters. If you notice signs of water damage, such as water stains, peeling paint, or mold growth, it is crucial to act fast. SERVPRO of Cypress specializes in water damage restoration and mitigation. Our team is equipped to handle any level of water damage, from minor leaks to significant flooding, ensuring your home is restored to its original condition. Don’t let a minor issue with your gutters turn into a major problem. Contact SERVPRO of Cypress today to assess and address any water damage concerns. We’re here to help you protect your home from the unexpected.

Securing Your Home: A Handbook for Avoiding Frozen Pipe Emergencies and Harnessing SERVPRO's Expertise in Water Damage Solutions

12/28/2023 (Permalink)

In the harsh winter months, the threat of frozen pipes looms large, posing a significant risk to homes and businesses. Burst pipes can lead to extensive water damage, turning a winter wonderland into a homeowner's nightmare. In this blog post, we'll explore practical tips on protecting your property from the perils of frozen pipes and how SERVPRO can come to your rescue if disaster strikes.

Prevention is Key

1. Insulate Your Pipes: Adequate insulation is crucial in preventing pipes from freezing. Identify vulnerable areas and wrap them with pipe insulation, minimizing the risk of exposure to freezing temperatures.

2. Seal Leaks and Cracks: Tiny openings in walls and foundations can let in cold air, increasing the likelihood of frozen pipes. Seal any gaps with weatherstripping or caulk to keep the cold at bay.

3. Maintain Consistent Heating: Keep your property warm, especially during frigid nights. Consistent heating helps maintain a stable temperature throughout your home or business, reducing the chances of pipes freezing.

4. Drip Faucets in Extreme Cold: Allowing faucets to drip slightly during extremely cold weather can relieve pressure within the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.

SERVPRO's Expertise in Water Damage Restoration

Should the unfortunate occur and your property falls victim to water damage from burst pipes, SERVPRO is here to help. With a swift response and cutting-edge technology, our team specializes in mitigating water damage and restoring properties to their preloss condition.

1. Emergency Response 24/7: SERVPRO understands that disasters don't adhere to a schedule. Our round-the-clock emergency response ensures that help is just a phone call away, no matter when water damage strikes.

2. Advanced Water Extraction and Drying Techniques: Our technicians employ state-of-the-art equipment to extract standing water and thoroughly dry affected areas, preventing further damage and the onset of mold.

3. Meticulous Cleanup and Restoration: SERVPRO goes beyond mere water removal, offering comprehensive cleanup and restoration services. From salvaging belongings to repairing structural damage, we're dedicated to restoring your property to its pre-disaster state.

By taking proactive measures to protect your property from frozen pipes and understanding the reliable support available from SERVPRO in the event of water damage, you can safeguard your home or business against winter's icy grip. Remember, preparation is key to weathering the storm and emerging unscathed from the challenges of frozen pipes.

Be ready for Summer Storms!

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends. However, it’s also a time when summer storms can wreak havoc on your home. Our team has put together a few tips on how to prepare your home for summer storms and what to do if you need water mitigation from water damage. Preparing Your Home for Summer Storms

1. Check Your Roof: Ensure your roof is in good condition by inspecting for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Any leaks or damage can lead to water damage during storms. Hire a professional to perform a thorough inspection and make any necessary repairs.
2. Clean Your Gutters: Clogged gutters can lead to water damage as water can overflow and seep into your home. Make sure to clean your gutters and downspouts to avoid this issue.
3. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Trim any branches that may be hanging over your roof or near your windows. High winds and lightning can cause these branches to fall and cause significant damage.
4. Secure Outdoor Furniture: Strong winds can easily move or damage your outdoor furniture. Secure or store them away during storms.
5. Install Storm Shutters: Installing storm shutters on your windows and doors can provide an additional layer of protection during summer storms.

1. Contact a Professional: If your home suffers from water damage, it’s important to contact a professional water mitigation company such as SERVPRO Team Wilson. They have the necessary equipment and expertise to quickly and effectively mitigate the damage.
2. Assess the Damage: The water mitigation team will assess the damage and provide a plan of action to remediate the damage.
3. Begin Mitigation: The water mitigation team will then begin the mitigation process, which may include water extraction, drying, and dehumidification.
4. Restoration: Once the mitigation process is complete, the restoration process can begin. This may include repairing any damage, replacing any damaged materials, and restoring your home to its pre-damage condition.

Safeguarding Your Home from the Dangers of Frozen Pipes: A Guide to Water Freeze Damage Mitigation

2/2/2023 (Permalink)

Winter is a time of year when many homes experience the consequences of frozen pipes and other water damage issues. If not properly addressed, these issues can result in significant damage to your property and potentially costly repairs. However, there are steps you can take to mitigate water damage during a winter freeze in your residential home. 

1. Insulate pipes: One of the most important steps in preventing frozen pipes is to properly insulate them. Pipes located in unheated areas, such as the attic or garage, are especially susceptible to freezing. Make sure all pipes are properly insulated, including those near exterior walls.
2. Keep the temperature consistent: Maintaining a consistent temperature inside your home during the winter months is key in preventing frozen pipes. Keeping your thermostat set to at least 55°F will help prevent pipes from freezing.
3. Open cabinets: If your pipes are located in cabinets, such as those under a bathroom or kitchen sink, keep the cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
4. Disconnect hoses: Make sure to disconnect all outdoor hoses from outdoor spigots to prevent water from freezing inside the pipes.
5. Know where your main water shutoff valve is: In the event of a burst pipe, it is important to know where your main water shutoff valve is located. This will allow you to quickly turn off the water supply to your home and minimize the damage.
6. Be aware of signs of frozen pipes: Be on the lookout for signs of frozen pipes, such as a decrease in water pressure or no water coming out of faucets. If you suspect a pipe may be frozen, you can try to thaw it using a hairdryer, taking care not to overheat the pipe.
7. Call a professional: If you are unable to thaw a frozen pipe, or if a pipe has already burst, it is important to call a professional to assess and repair the damage. A professional will have the tools and expertise to quickly and effectively repair the damage and minimize any further harm to your home.

 Taking these steps can help prevent water damage during a winter freeze in your residential home. However, if you do experience water damage, it is important to act quickly to minimize the damage and ensure the safety of your home and family. Call SERVPRO Team Wilson to assess and repair the damage as soon as possible. In conclusion, water damage during a winter freeze can be a major issue for residential homes. By taking steps to properly insulate pipes, maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, and being aware of the signs of frozen pipes, you can reduce the risk of water damage and minimize any damage that does occur. If you do experience water damage, it is important to call a professional to assess and repair the damage as soon as possible.

Impacts that Water Have on Your Home

8/24/2022 (Permalink)

Houses flood, pipes burst, and roofs leak.

What might not seem like a big deal initially may become much worse if left unchecked? Water damage in a home can have a substantial negative impact on those living in the house. Water damage and freezing as a category is the second-most common type of home insurance claim.

Did you know?

• Nationwide, household leaks waste an estimated one (1) trillion gallons, or enough to supply 11 million homes with water for a year.
• 10% of homes with leaks waste 90 gallons or more per day.
• A leaky faucet can waste 3,000 gallons per year.
• A leak in an irrigation system can waste 6,300 gallons in a year.
• An average household leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water in a year.
• Annual water wastage from a typical household leak is equivalent to the water used for 270 loads of laundry. 600 showers. 1,200 loads of dishes in a dishwasher. 6,250 flushes of a standard toilet. 80,000 servings of water.

Flooding and water damage are very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Cypress arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs. SERVPRO of Cypress provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays.

Tips for your Water Heater

8/4/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know that in a home, the water heater accounts for about 18% of the energy used?

• To determine if your anode rod needs to be replaced, inspect it every two years or if the warranty has ended every year.
• Attach a garden hose to the valve at the base of the water heater tank every six months to remove sediment. Please turn off the electricity and run the hot water until it cools down for safety.
• A plumbing specialist should perform a yearly check of the shut-off valve and all piping. Broken valves, loose or moist joints, and rust are signs that more severe harm is on the way.
• Turn the temperature down to one. There is no reason to keep your water heater above it. At that temperature, you can do everything you need. But, of course, keeping your water heater hotter can cause it to break down much faster.

April Showers Cause Water Damage By The Hour

4/25/2022 (Permalink)

As one of the wettest months in the year, April is known for its rainy days and perpetual showers. Though spring is officially here, we hardly get to enjoy the nice weather until late in the month or on those rare days when the weather allows some sunshine to peek through the clouds. 

One thing we can consistently expect from April is the amount of water damage claims our teams respond to. Though the after effects of water damage are all the same. the causes can vary depending on where the damage takes place. To minimize the risk of water in your home or office, here are a few of the top causes of spring water damage:

1. Flooding 

Whether because of heavy rains, a low water table, or leaks and cracks in your, flooding is the top cause of spring water damage. Waterproofing your basement and properly weather-sealing doors and windows can help in minimizing the risk of water damage in your home. 

2. Roof Leaks and Drain Back-Ups

Second to noticing cracks in your foundations, this can be one of the trickiest to get ahead on, mainly because most of us don’t spend much time out on our roofs. Periodically checking your roof and gutters is key to getting ahead of leaks and drain backups that can seep into your home.

3. Frozen Pipes

Last, but not least — frozen pipes. You may think frozen pipes are only a danger in the colder months, but the truth is, plenty of water damage claims happen when these pipes defrost in the warmer months. That’s because outside faucets and water irrigation systems that were shut off during the colder months, yet not properly insulated, begin to leak into your home once it is turned on. So instead of only watering your lawn, you may see these pipes have also watered your indoor living space.

There are plenty of other causes of water damage ranging from leaking AC units, downed trees, and even heavy storms. Whatever the cause, SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress is only a call away. 

Help Prevent Flooding With These 3 Landscaping Features

12/26/2021 (Permalink)

Level your yard to keep floodwaters out!

Protective Landscaping Features

Rain can be a welcomed sight, but a flooded yard is not. To keep your lawn from becoming a swamp, here are three landscaping features to help you disperse outside flooding.

A Driveway Built for Drainage
The two most commonly used materials for driveways are concrete and asphalt. These pavements don’t allow water to seep into the ground. This creates a lot of runoff with nowhere to go. Here are some ideas for getting good rain drainage when installing a driveway:

Channels on sides of concrete/asphalt driveways to catch and redirect runoff
Covered drains in-between concrete slabs to let water slip through and absorb into the ground
Paving stones with spacing for water seepage as a pleasingly aesthetic alternative
Gravel as a classic, budget-friendly option

By making wise design choices, you can build a driveway that helps prevent outside flooding.

A Leveled Yard
Keep floodwater out by leveling your yard. Low areas in yards are where flooding happens most. Fill them in with topsoil to keep water from pooling. The high points of your yard should be around your home and then gradually slope away, keeping storm runoff from your foundation. Low points near the house can lead to water in your basement. If this happens, call your local storm damage experts and ask for future prevention advice during your assessment.

A Strategically Placed Swale
A swale is any type of “ditch” that redirects rainwater away from your home. It is often integrated into lawns as a water feature. A swale does not only move rainwater but slows it down and allows it to seep into the ground. Planting shrubs along its edges and laying stones in the bottom of a swale helps it slow and disperse water even more.
Making smart design decisions and preparing for the storm season in Katy, Texas, will help you prevent outside flooding and enjoy your lawn, even after heavy rain.

How Fast Can Water Ruin Walls?

11/22/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can lead to mold growth, electrical hazards, and cause costly losses to your property.

Lingering Water Can Result in Structural Issues If Not Addressed Quickly

After locating water damage in your home, you might not be aware of how dangerous it is to ignore the problems you find. Even with just a little moisture trapped in your home, significant issues can develop that compromise the structural integrity and overall condition of your working or living environment.  

With the help of an expertly trained professional, you can defeat the water damage present in your building. The right company provides you with quality personnel, advanced equipment, and access to resources you likely do not have on your own. This gives you a better opportunity to protect your investment and provide for your family.

Within days, water can do major damage that you cannot see. 

Water trapped in your walls can cause severe damage to untreated framing materials, insulation, and lead to corrosion, rot, and mold growth. You should always assume wherever water damage occurs, or a leak happens, that mold growth is not so far away. SERVPRO can send IICRC-industry certified technicians to your home that understand how water and mold act, giving you a plan of action that helps you take care of even the worst problems.

Compromised structural integrity severely impacts the value of your home. However, you can minimize any losses you experience by having a trained professional clean and dry your home after water incidents occur. Our restoration representatives can help you understand which steps to take, remove any standing water with the proper extraction, drying, and cleaning equipment and help your home become liveable again, "Like it never even happened."

We repair the damage caused by water emergencies.

Because of our proximity to your area, 24-hour emergency services are available year-round. We give you access to the help you need, whenever you need it by proudly supplying quality water damage restoration throughout our community. Whether you have a faulty appliance, damage caused by leaky or broken pipes, weather-related water problems, or something as terrible as a flood, we can help.

Advantages of catching water damage early:

Failure to attend to water damage can lead to mold growth, electrical hazards, and cause costly losses to your property. That means such incidents are stressing and the best line of action to take is to work with a team of restoration experts as you try to get your business or home back to its former state.

It is vital for any Houston resident to act within 48 hours from the time the water event took place.

When our technicians arrive at your property to address water damage, we immediately do a site inspection. With the help of specialized devices, we are in a position to determine the magnitude of the problem. By using moisture meters and infrared cameras, we can detect any hidden moisture in ceilings, walls, and floors. The inspection also helps us to find out salvageable contents, items that need replacement. With all these details, we formulate an appropriate restoration plan.

The Water Extraction Process

During the water extraction process, our team can use pumps and truck-mounted systems to remove deep standing water. If we notice that the water has gone through your carpet or padding, we lift it and dry it separately or discard it when necessary. After removing the water through extraction and drying the site, there are chances of the structure having high humidity. When the humidity is high, there are chances of secondary water damage -like mold growth - taking place once condensation takes place. To prevent that, we perform dehumidification with the help of Desiccant Dehumidifiers and Refrigerant Dehumidifiers.

Water can cause organic items to rot and emit odors. When there are strong odors at the site, our technicians may decide to perform ozone deodorization. We perform the process using ozone deodorizers which are machines that produce ozone, which breaks the molecular formula of the odors thus freshening up the area.

SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 stands ready to assist homeowners with professional water damage restoration, cleaning, and deodorization services you can trust.

Give our offices a call, today.

Having an ERP is Important to Prevent Water Damage

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has warehouses of drying equipment to handle any-size water loss.

Having an Emergency Response Plan in place is imperative when owning or managing a business.

SERVPRO of Katy, Cypress, Champions, and 1960 offers a complimentary service to any business that doesn't have a sufficient plan. Emergency Ready Profiles or ERP's are an excellent way to be proactive ahead of any disaster. The plans are compiled by our team of experts and documents with photos and directions all sensitive areas in your building such as shut-off valves and exits. We will tag for you all of the important shut-offs so your employees will know what to do and where things like gas, electrical, sprinklers, and water shut-offs are located.

ERPs have all the important information a company would need during an emergency such as insurance contacts, policy information, and local emergency responders. The plan is available on SERVPRO's Ready App so it can be accessed at any time, any place and has a click to call feature.

This month, SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 had a customer hit the click to call button after a fire. The fire caused damage to the main residence where it started. A burnt mattress, smoke, and soot damage, but nothing major from the fire.

The biggest problem came from the sprinkler system and the thousands of gallons the local fire department used to eliminate any hot spots. When the smoke had settled, the water found its way from the 19^th floor all the way to the ground level of the building.

Our crews worked to get our equipment up the stairs, placing dryers on each floor in order to start the dry out process. After a week of running the equipment, moisture tests were performed successfully. We had accomplished drying the whole building out. SERVPRO finished the job with reconstruction to the affected unit.

This instance shows how any fire, big or small, will leave damage not only from smoke and soot, but also from water used to put out the fire. Mold growth can occur rapidly, and a number of other issues can spring up. Make sure your building has an emergency response plan in the event of any fire or water emergency.

Call SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 to learn more about getting your free Emergency Response Plan from the professionals.

Categories of Water Damage

10/12/2021 (Permalink)

If Category 1 water damage is not addressed quickly, it can eventually become Category 2, which can cause some potential health hazards.

Not all water damages are created equally. We are called each day to clean up and dry after a water damage, but the work involved varies not just by the amount of water involved, but also the category it falls under. These categories—determined by the number of contaminants in the water—inform our technicians of the work and equipment necessary to make it “Like it never even happened.”

Category 1 – Little to No Contaminants

Water damage that falls under this category comes from “clean” water and poses very little risk of causing adverse health effects. This type of water damage is easiest to dry and follows normal drying procedures. Category 1 damage usually comes from malfunctions or breakage involving water supply lines.

However, when it is not addressed in a timely manner, Category 1 water damage can become Category 2.

Category 2 – Significant Contamination

Category 2 water damage has significant levels of contamination and has the potential to cause some health effects when left for an extended amount of time. In this case, the technicians’ first priority should be to employ cleaning processes before beginning the drying process. Some sources for this category type include aquarium leaks, dishwasher discharges, or untreated Category 1.

For water damage in this category, an antimicrobial spray will be applied to help prevent the growth of microorganisms.

Category 3 – Substantial Contamination

Category 3 water is extremely contaminated and comes from unsanitary sources such as sewage backups and flood waters. Because this category poses strong adverse health risks, several forms of PPE gear are required and those with compromised immune systems must be evacuated. Porous materials that were affected must be either removed or undergo very strict cleaning and drying (a very expensive process). Even stronger cleaning methods than employed for Category 2 water damages must be used.

SERVPRO and Water Damage Categories

Our team at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 is certified by the IICRC to handle your water damage regardless of its category. Our goal is not just to dry the damage; it’s to make sure that you can occupy an environment without facing ill health effects. If you have a water damage, call SERVPRO of Katy / Cypress / Champions / 1960 today.

Our Highly Trained Staff is Ready to Restore Your Home After Water Damage

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage soaked the carpeting and the structural elements of this staircase in this home. Our technicians arrived quickly and restored the home

Water Damage Restoration for Your Home

One of the most common reasons for water intrusion in homes is a leaky roof. Various things such as missing shingles, wind damage, clogged gutters, or storm damage can cause a leaky roof. Unfortunately, you probably won’t realize there is an issue until the water starts dripping down into the living space of your home.

When you’ve seen signs of a roof leak in your home, you need help to clean up the water damage and restore your home to how it was. SERVPRO staff is highly trained and experienced, plus we’re faster to any size disaster, so you can trust us to do a thorough and timely job before additional damage can be done.

When you see water spots on your ceiling or water dripping down from the ceiling, you need to take immediate action. Since the leak made it this far, you can’t be sure how much damage is done already in your attic, but you do not want it to come down and drip onto furniture, flooring, or walls and do additional damage.

When checking an attic space, SERVPRO techs examine all sections of the construction of the roof. We check to see if any roofing material is damaged if the decking was affected and if the water leak is stopped. The structure of your roof and home are checked for damage and what repairs need to be made.

Some attics are easy for us to access but getting into others can be difficult. How much equipment we can get up there is limited, and sheetrock can complicate the drying process. Once we demolish any damaged sheetrock, structural parts in your attic area are relatively simple to dry. Plus, we might have to remove sheetrock so we can access areas inside the attic.

Many times, when working to restore an attic, we have to work with the insulation that is there. We might be able to dry and save any wet fiberglass insulation, but wet plaster or sheetrock under the insulation might not be restorable. A majority of the time when plaster or sheetrock is sagging, we have to move the insulation to an area that is not damaged so we can get to the sagging sheetrock. We use large insulation vacuums to remove insulation and maybe save it for reuse.

We may need to build containment around the water damage, as the removal of sheetrock and insulation and create large amounts of dust. Negative air pressure can also be needed.

SERVPRO of Katy / Cypress / Champions / 1960 is always available to help you restore your home when you have a leaky roof. As soon as you see signs of a problem, reach out to us, and we can have your home fixed up before you know it.

How We Rescue Flooded Homes With Water Removal

8/5/2021 (Permalink)

An overflowing toilet requires professional water removal services to properly restore your home and prevent further damage.

SERVPRO’s Water Removal Process for Flood Damaged Homes

When a home in Katy, Texas becomes flooded from an outside source, such as incorrectly aligned gutters or an interior one, like an overflowing toilet, water immediately begins damaging everything it comes into contact.

In a flooded home in Katy, the restoration process only begins with water removal services. The other services help prepare your home for your return by removing materials damaged by the water and replacing them with all new materials. We do what it takes to make your home “Like it never even happened.”

After the pump trucks extract all signs of standing water from your floors, we move onto saturated materials. The drying out of your home continues with the use of smaller extraction units, both portable and easily maneuverable by hand as well as stationary units. Then we bring in powerful air movers that increase the circulation rate of the air inside your home.

As air moves rapidly through your home's interior, we take meter readings of the surfaces of your dwelling so we can assess our progress. Sometimes we need to dry the interior of walls, so we make small openings, which we close upon completion of the drying process. Carpeting can sometimes take a terrible toll during a flood, so we often replace the entire carpet and the pad below.

Our Odor Control Technician (OCT) is ready to help make the odors left behind by flooding, due to the high organic content flooding brings into homes, not only less obvious but eliminated. We do not merely cover up odors. We eliminate them at their source by removing the compounds that cause them.

SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 wants to help your family recover from horrific events such as flooding that can keep you out of your home until they no longer pose a problem for your family's occupancy. Call us as soon as you know there is a problem with an impending flood, and we can give you helpful tips on lessening flood damage. We Are Faster To Any Size Disaster, including floods.

Steps To Fix a Kitchen Sink Leak

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

A leaky kitchen sink may seem like a minor issue, but an ongoing leak could have serious consequences.

Here Are a Few Steps To Fix Your Kitchen Sink Leak

A leaky kitchen sink may seem like a minor issue, but an ongoing leak could have serious consequences. Business owners may be able to fix a malfunctioning faucet, drain or drain seal at a residence in Cypress, TX. A leaking supply line or other plumbing problems could cause flooding requiring expert repair. 

1. Find the Source of the Leak
A leaky or broken water supply line may visibly drip or spray water in a home. A P-trap or sink drain leak may only be evident after the water has run through the sink. If you cannot locate the source of a leak, shut off the water supply and contact a plumber.

2. Fix the Drain, Seal or Faucet
A leaky faucet is relatively easy to replace, along with one or two washers or gaskets. A P-trap leak may require clearing a blockage, tightening connections, or replacing a corroded trap. A sink drain leak may need to be unscrewed and repacked with plumbers putty. A broken supply line is more likely to cause category one water damage or flooding and require expert repair.

3. Contact a Plumber If a Leak Continues
If the kitchen repair measures you take to stop a leaky sink are not effective, it is a good idea to call a plumber sooner rather than later. The longer an under-sink cabinet or other areas remain wet, the higher the risk of major water damage and mold.
A leaking sink often starts off as a drip, but a problem that goes unaddressed could end up flooding a home kitchen in Katy or Cypress, Texas. If you cannot resolve the underlying cause, contact a plumber to minimize primary damage. An under-sink cabinet that has been exposed to water for a long period of time or repeatedly may suffer primary and secondary damage.

If you need assistance, call SERVPRO at (281) 500-8230.

SERVPRO Responds Swiftly to Remove Stormwater for Businesses

6/14/2021 (Permalink)

Houston Area Flooding Gets Help from SERVPRO

Your Katy dealership helps drivers of all ages find the appropriate car to fit their respective budgets. As a part of your presentation to the area, you have a very clean and modernized showroom and lobby for those wanting to beat the heat or other elements outside as they wait. With all of the time spent with the upkeep of your facility, natural disasters are one of the last things that your business needs. With close proximity to the gulf, rising water levels can impact even businesses above the normal floodplains.

The trouble with flooding from rising levels of the bodies of water nearby is that you often have little time to prepare your dealership for the coming disaster. With so many vehicles to move to safety and contents and records that need to be preserved within the main facility itself, it would be difficult to prepare for flood damages.

Being at the mercy of rising water is never an easy sight to see, but when you call our SERVPRO professionals, it is nothing that you have to face alone. Our team can move quickly to help remove the contents of your building to a safer location and prevent irreparable damage. Preventative measures can help to limit the actual water that enters the building altogether, making extraction a much more straightforward process.

Once the water gets pulled from the floors throughout the facility, drying is the next phase. Great care is spent ensuring that the entire building is thoroughly dry. Thermal imagery often gets used to locate moisture or dampness in areas that are out of sight or difficult to access. This inspection ensures that all of the moisture gets removed through this phase of restoration.

There is nothing as unnerving to a business owner as a natural disaster. With a looming threat drawing closer and closer, or worse yet rushing in all at once, a fast response time can help limit the overall damage and length of time needed for restoration. Trust in our experienced SERVPRO of Katy / Cypress / Champions / 1960 restoration specialists to help you remove flood waters and clean up the mess.

The Best Way to Remove Water From Your Property

3/30/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage has a variety of causes. You can trust the SERVPRO brand to restore your home to its preloss condition.

Water Cleanup is Often Vital to the Restoration of Your Katy/Cypress Property

Owning a home in Katy, Cypress, Champions, or 1960 means learning how to prepare for a variety of disasters that can happen to your property. Restoring a house after a catastrophe such as a hurricane that makes your home's interior unimaginably messy or downright unlivable requires partnering with professionals in the restoration industry. We are here to provide you with the services you need during those times.  

Many homes in the Houston area that sustain damage after a disaster require water cleanup services to get started. Getting rid of the water and cleaning up the initial stages of the mess caused makes it easier to continue with the rest of the necessary work.  

When SERVPRO sends specialists out to remove lost water, flooding, or other damaging moisture from a house, we bring all the equipment with us. This equipment includes ladders, buckets, hand tools, and other smaller items that support our use of larger equipment and the implementation of highly effective techniques.

We want to undo as much water damage as possible that your home suffers, as this keeps overall restoration costs low and more manageable for you. Mitigating damage that, when we first assess it, has not yet become permanent means we can ensure it remains only temporary. Cleaning moisture from surfaces wherever it condenses keeps it from causing further problems. Many surfaces inside your home can fare equally well when we use air movers that help wick this moisture into the air, where we can either send it toward a powerful desiccant machine or out open doors and windows.  

Other situations that can leave your home soaked in localized areas include extinguishing a fire. Part of the water used to put out a fire turns to steam. This water vapor is then free to invade other areas of your home. The other part of the water left in the area soaks into anything it comes into contact with, and below. We remove charred materials that often become soaked, leading to rusty nails and other dangerous aspects. We can find all of the moisture that evaporated with our moisture sensing equipment, including our infrared cameras. This equipment works regardless of the source of water.

After any incident, large or small, calling SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 only takes a few minutes but provides you with results that make your home “Like it never even happened,” quickly. Call us when our water removal services can help restore your home. Our emergency services line, (281) 469-2957, is always available, 24/7, every day of the year.

When You See Water Damage on Your Property, Call SERVPRO

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Says Inspect Your Washing Machine Water Lines to Prevent Damage to Your Tahoe City House

It seems that water leaks occur at the most inopportune of times, quite often when you happen to be away for the weekend. How often does this happen? More than we would like to think. There is always help, only a phone call away from your local water removal experts from SERVPRO.

Water damage can strike at the most unexpected moments. We have seen many familiar culprits of water damage. Hopefully, rising floodwaters from the Lake isn't the cause. Several of the most typical household appliances that are prone to water damage include dishwashers, washing machines, and the water line to an ice maker in the refrigerator. These water lines can break or leak causing water damage to your home. We service customers with water damage ranging from a subtle problem to the extreme case of flooding. The severity of the water damage is dependent upon the water pressure in the line and the amount of time spent leaking. When a dishwasher is broken, this can create wet spots on the floor and moisture underneath the dishwasher. The dark areas under the dishwasher plus accumulated water can lead to mold growth. A more visible dishwasher leak is when the drain is clogged leading to water escaping out the sides of the dishwasher all over the floor. Broken water lines to ice makers of refrigerators may present in a similar fashion resulting in water all over the floor. This creates an obvious slip-and-fall hazard on the floor.
 
Washing machines used for laundry can develop a leak in the water lines. This excess water can accumulate in the drip pan underneath the washing machine. This is a common problem of washing machines located on a second floor or other location upstairs. We, at SERVPRO, are available for water emergencies for the havoc caused by these leaking appliances. Gravity does not always have to be your friend. Pressurized water can flow leaving a large wake of destructive water damage to your property. If a central drain valve overflows, the water may try to escape leading to a flooding situation. It is always important to know the location of the central water line in the house to turn it off in the event of a flood until our team of IICRC certified technicians can extract the standing water.
 
SERVPRO is readily available to meet your needs when water damage strikes. We are strategically positioned with a rapid response team and can be reached at (281) 469-2957. When water emergencies or floods occur, call on us to meet your needs 24/7.

Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes in Below-Freezing Weather

12/12/2020 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes can create an inconvenience but, more seriously, can cause major damage to your property.

When the temperatures drop, one major issue that could come up is a frozen water pipe and it’s potential to bust, leading to flooding and water damage in your commercial or residential property. Learn why frozen pipes are so dangerous, the types of pipes that are most vulnerable to freezing, and four signs that a pipe is actually frozen.

Why Are Frozen Pipes Dangerous?

Frozen pipes are a problem for a couple of reasons.

They can create an inconvenience but, more seriously, can cause major damage to your property.

• Lack of Running Water– The most obvious danger of a frozen pipe is the inability to access running water. This can interfere with your ability to do everyday tasks such as washing the dishes or taking a shower.
• Potential to Burst- The second problem that can occur when a pipe freezes is that the pipe can burst. Once the water in the pipe freezes, pressure is created between the closed faucet and the blockage that can build up to a point that causes the pipe to explode and extensive water damage to your property can occur.

Pipes That Are Vulnerable to Freezing

There are some pipes that are more vulnerable to freezing than others:

• Exterior Walls- Water pipes that are located along the exterior walls of a home can be vulnerable to freezing. This is because they may not have an adequate amount of insulation protecting them from the exterior temperatures.
   
• Attics and Basements- Pipes that are located in attics or in basements may also have a greater tendency to freeze. These pipes may not receive the same amount of heat as the rest of the property. If these areas are not used as living space, they also may not be properly insulated.

4 Signs of Frozen Pipes

There are a few clues which can help you determine if you have frozen pipes at your property:

• The Temperature Is Right- Pipes cannot freeze if it is not cold enough outside for them to do so. Water does not freeze when it is 60 degrees Fahrenheit outside, and neither do pipes. When the temperature falls to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, you should begin to take precautions to prevent vulnerable pipes from freezing.  
   
• There Is Frost on the Pipe- For pipes that can actively be seen, such as those under sinks, you may be able to see frost that has accumulated on the exterior of the pipe. This can serve as a warning sign that the pipe is frozen before you ever try to turn on the faucet.
   
• No Water Is Coming Out of the Faucet- Another sign that you may have a frozen pipe on your hands is a lack of running water. If you or a tenant turn on a kitchen or bathroom faucet and only a slight trickle of water or no water at all comes out, the water pipe leading to the faucet may be frozen.

• Strange Smells- A fourth potential sign of a blocked pipe is an odd smell coming from a faucet or drain. If the pipe is partially or completely blocked, the only way the odor can escape is back up in the direction of your property.

Act Quickly

Once you are aware that a pipe is frozen, you must act quickly to thaw the pipe. Depending on the location of the pipe and your level of expertise, you can attempt to thaw the pipe yourself or you can contact a licensed plumber to thaw the pipe for you. It is imperative to thaw the pipe as soon as possible because it has the potential to burst and cause extensive damage to your property.

If a frozen water pipe bursts and you experience flooding, turn off your water shut-off valve to prevent further water damage. Contact a professional water restoration company, such as SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960, to extract and mitigate the water loss and restore your property to its preloss condition.

We work with your insurance.
For a stress-free claims process, SERVPRO can help manage the insurance paperwork and process.

Have Questions? Call Us Today –(281) 469-2957

Note: some information provided by www.thesource.com

Prevent Unnecessary Problems In Champions 1960 After a Disaster

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Our professional restoration equipment is ready for any type of emergency. We are available to help you 24/7 so call us right away.

Dealing with Water Removal in Your Champions 1960 Property

Water damage results from heavy rain, storms, leaks, burst pipes, failed appliances, or other incidences. The removal process requires trained technicians and equipment. Some situations, like leaks in concealed spaces such as wall cavities or subfloors, are especially difficult to address. We offer professional water removal that helps home and business owners in Houston have peace of mind after incidents.

Reaching Water inside the Walls

Walls can present a significant challenge to the removal process. Water can find ways into wall cavities. If a supply pipe in the cavity leaks, the spill is likely to remain confined in the walls. Water spilled in other areas of the house can filter into the walls, primarily through small openings. Our SERVPRO technicians evaluate the situation to determine the best course of action. We can remove the baseboards and punch small holes in wallboards to release water. These actions work best for un-insulated walls.

Removing Water from Wet Building Materials

Sometimes removing damaged materials from wall cavities requires demolition. If the water affects fibrous insulation within the walls, it is essential to remove the wet insulation when extracting the water to ensure no excess moisture remains in the wall space. Our SERVPRO technicians prop open undamaged panels for better access to the wall interiors. We remove wet insulation, extract water, and reinstall the panels after drying the area thoroughly.

Removing Water from Subfloors

Water that wicks into floor materials and subfloors can be challenging to deal with. Layers of plywood or OSB subfloors absorb water, which can lead to problems like swelling. Removing any floor coverings helps ease the process of water removal by eliminating barriers. However, it might still take many weeks to dry the material properly. Our SERVPRO technicians use LGR dehumidifiers and high-speed air movers to speed up the process.

Water removal helps prevent other severe problems that might occur when there is damage at your Champions, 1960, Katy, or Cypress property. Call SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 at (281) 469-2957 if you need help with water removal. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

Mold Spreads Quickly in Unoccupied Buildings During Coronavirus Lockdown

8/25/2020 (Permalink)

Prevent a mold monster from invading your property!

Why is it important to keep the AC running while my building is vacant?

Due to quarantine, many buildings are left empty and property managers may be tempted to wait until everything is back to business before switching the power back on. However, if the A/C unit is not circulating air throughout the office, restaurant, retail space, or apartment building, moisture can build up quickly and lead to the spread of unhealthy mold.

Keeping the air circulating is crucial, especially if the property is fully furnished. Fabric materials grow mold very easily due to the organic makeup of the fabric, making it a fantastic breeding ground for all types of mold. Mold can drastically spread in 48-72 hours. By keeping your AC unit running, you will continue to control the climate in the building and help prevent moisture build-up on walls, ceilings, and furniture. 

If your property sits vacant for a while remember these helpful tips:

• Keep the air circulating
• Cover furniture
• Check the property regularly

If you find mold in your property:

• Stay out of affected areas
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans
• Contact SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 for mold remediation services.

What not to do:

• Don’t touch or disturb mold growth
• Don’t blow air across any surface with visible or suspected mold growth
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold

Mold Remediation and Restoration

• 24-Hour Emergency Service
• Faster to Any Size Disaster
• Highly Trained Mold Remediation Technicians
• Specialized Mold Remediation Equipment
• A Trusted Leader in the Restoration Industry
• Locally Owned and Operated

Prevent a mold monster from invading your property!

Contact SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress/Champions/1960 today to get your building tested for mold. 

Protect your home from water Damage

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

Water in unwanted places can cause a lot of damage. Not only can it ruin your possessions, but also your home. Act quickly to minimize further damages and save some of your belongings. Your success depends on how long the water has been around. Furniture and sometimes even carpet can be saved. Pull up carpet and area rugs and under padding. You may be able to save the carpet if you can get it cleaned and disinfected, however it may shrink. Get professional help and have your home or business back to normal, call SERVPRO trained technicians to help with dry out and cleaning up affected areas quickly and to prevent mold growth. Open up windows to allow for faster and thorough drying out of affected areas.  

Faster to your Katy/Cypress Water Damage Event

1/7/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO Katy/Cypress provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

We promise to be faster to any disaster!

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

We look forward to helping you in your time of need!

Water Damaged Property

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage can often catch a home owner and businesses by surprise and caused by a broken pipe, overloaded washing machine, and toilet over flow, bath tub or a leaky roof. Water damage can become worse quickly, the longer it goes unattended. Many materials used in the building structure, are prone to absorb water and also furniture and cabinetry, and will warp. Drywall can start to crumble and become host to mold and bacteria that can be harmful to you and your family. SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress restoration and clean up services can help stop source of the water, and dry out the effective areas. Our technicians will treat the affected area with mold preventatives and restore any affected structure or damaged areas to your home or business

Water Damage and Wet Carpet

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Water damages can be a devastating to homeowner or business .Standing water can be difficult to pin point, to know where the water is coming from. When this unfortunate event occurs it is important to call SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress restoration to help prevent further water damages and ensure your property does not suffer more damage because of water outburst. Our technicians know where to look and how to fix the water damage. When cleaning wet carpet you definitely want it to dry fast, because mold can grow on your carpet in time frame of24 hours and also deteriorates indoor air quality. Remove all the furniture from the wet carpet to keep furniture safe from mold. There’s always one important thing to remember that always treat wet carpet as soon as you see it wet

Water Damage in home or Business

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

No matter the cause of your water damage problem in your home or place of business, SERVPRO of Katy/ Cypress professionals will help you clean up your water damage fast whether it’s caused by storm floods, broken pipes, sewage backups, malfunctioning appliances or an over flowing toilet. Our experts will extract the water and dry out your property fast and disinfect the area to prevent mold from developing over time. The longer the water sits the more damage it will cause. If carpet was wet longer than 72hours, you should consider replacing it, particularly the pad. Begin the clean up as soon as possible to minimize the damage and avoid mold growth. Whatever the cause of your water damage in your home or business call SERVPRO, 24/7 services

Residential and Commercial Water Damage

9/9/2019 (Permalink)

Water and flooding damage is the most common form of property damage to both residential and commercial properties. Damage on properties, is mostly caused by flooding, fire, or burst pipes. For the best restoration and clean up services, Call SERVPRO of Katy/ Cypress to handle all of your drying needs. With our knowledge and expertise to ensure drying is done quickly, whether residential or commercial or even industrial loss. Immediate asses of property damages will help secondary damage to occur, including mold growth. Depending on the classification of the water damage, classification must be considered when defining the scope of work to be completed. Our technicians will set up and monitor the drying process every phase, to ensure proper drying and moisture deep within walls and floors will returned to acceptable standards.

The Affects of Water on Wood

6/7/2019 (Permalink)

The experts here at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress are well versed in all types of wood and the affects that are caused by water. Different types of wood show different responses to water exposure. Wood will contract and cracks will develop during dry seasons due to a loss of moisture and then swell during hot and humid summer months. A heavier, more solid wood will do better with water than light wood. Water also will cause breakdowns, such as rotting and molding. Once you know the type of wood you have, it's important to treat any wood you're using. Sealing it will guarantee that you get the most out of your flooring, furniture and home. For any questions or concerns about this subject and others, please contact us here at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress. 

Leaky Roofs

1/10/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage on roofs caused from leaks can appear as discolored spots on the ceilings. If the issue is not handled quickly, roof leaks can turn into a major problems throughout time. Moister can also cause mold and mildew growth. Here at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress, our experienced technicians are experts in handling any water issue in your home or business. SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress has the proper equipment for any job. Damages caused to the roof by water can also cause a roof to cave in. We at SERVPRO always recommend to investigate the leak to make sure you find its source. Sometimes damages can be caused by a pipe burst and not a hole in the ceiling. Call a plumber to locate the leak, then call SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress so that we can take care of the rest. 

Water & The Damages Caused

12/26/2018 (Permalink)

We all have those moments in our lives when everything seems to go wrong at the worst times. Thanks to SERVPRO, you don't have to have that overwhelming feeling in the back of your mind anymore. SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress is here for you, in your time of need. Lets remember that SERVPRO is a 24/7 company. Our certified technicians are on call at all times to make you're problem ours. One of the leading causes of damage to homes besides fires is water damage. So what is water damage and how may it occur? Water damage occurs when excess water begins to pool in areas where it shouldn’t. Many different factors can create this excess water and thereby contribute to water damage. Pipes that burst or leak are common causes of water damage. Drains and toilets that get backed up and or blocked can cause unwanted pressure in the pipe, which then causes it to burst or leak into an area of your home where water doesn't belong. Whether its the holiday season or mid-summer, remember to call SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress for all your restoration questions and needs. 

Flood Waters 2017

9/13/2018 (Permalink)

Hurricane Harvey damaged more than 204,000 homes and apartment buildings in Harris County alone. Three-quarters of them outside the 100-year flood plain, leaving tens of thousands of homeowners uninsured and unprepared. Harvey was a Category 4 storm that caused almost $125 billion in damages in Texas, according to the N.H.C. (National Hurricane Center). As most Houstonians remember, it wasn't the storm's damage itself that caused that much destruction, but the flood water that came with the rains. There were about 740,000 people that registered for assistance with the FEMA or (Federal Emergency Management Agency). The agency has paid almost $400 million to them thus far. This statistic alone tells you how dangerous and expensive unexpected flood waters can be. During the aftermath, SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress made it their mission to help as many people get there lives back as they could. 

Black Water Event

9/12/2018 (Permalink)

Black water cleanup from sewage damage is something that needs to be cleaned up as soon as possible after the issue has occurred. We would encourage you to leave the property and call SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress and we will dispatch a crew immediately to your home or business. When Sewage back up is a continual problem, it can be caused by heavy rain water overloading the sewage system. This type of black water comes from toilets, human waste and fecal matter and is generally regarded as a bio-hazard especially when people are ill. The smell if bad enough, is potential for illness and can be a serious lifelong problem. If you're currently experiencing problems with black water damage don't wait, get professional help from SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress.

Unexpected Water Damage

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

When you suffer from damages caused by busted pipes or leaky dishwashers, time could make the difference in hundreds or even thousands of dollars. knowing the type of water damage you are dealing with can protect the health of your family and or building occupants. SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress technicians are trained and will know the type of water loss and category. Category 1; clean water, typically comes from broken or frozen water pipes, refrigerator ice hoses, water heaters and other similar sources. Category 2; Gray water, water that has been used to clean something and may contain contaminants such as detergents, bacteria and or food residues. Category 3; black water is unsanitary, sewage or hazardous waters, and if ingested it could cause serious illness or death. Be safe, be prepared, and call the experts at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress for an emergency water restoration. 

When Water Damage Occurs

9/11/2018 (Permalink)

When you experience water damage and call SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress, a trained extraction technician will handle the issue promptly. We pride ourselves on our punctuality and the knowledge it takes to professionally handle the situation. When water damage happens, time is of the essence. The water must be removed as soon as possible to minimize the initial damage of your property and personal belongings. We have helped many clients restore their residential and commercial properties with flood, fires and other disasters. The first 48 hours of a water damage event are the most important when assessing the damages to your home. The best thing to do is call SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress. The longer the water sits, the more extensive the cost to repair your home can be. 

Water Works

6/12/2018 (Permalink)

We all know that water covers 70% of our earth’s surface, but if you live in Sana’a Paolo, California or many other areas where droughts occur, then you know that abundance can be relative. According to a Geological survey, it shows that only a fraction of the earth ‘s fresh water is accessible. Here at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress, water is an everyday use, not just for drinking, but also on jobs for cleaning. During hurricane Harvey, Irma and Maria, millions of dollars in flood damages occurred and have been assessed. Whether water damage is caused by leaky pipes, flooding and or severe weather, the type of water is important to identify as the extent of damage when finding the best restoration route. The three categories of water are: category 1, clean water, category 2, gray water and category 3, black water. Once the type of water is identified by a SERVPRO technician and the source has been detected, then the water extraction process can begin.  

Clogged Gutters Cause Water Damage

1/3/2018 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress, fire and water damage calls are an everyday occurrence. During Hurricane Harvey, we provided services to several major water damages due to flooding. Every water damage situation is caused by something different. For example, clogged gutters can cause damages to your home. Which is a good reason why cleaning your gutting bi-annually could help prevent an uncomfortable situation for you and your family. A lack of maintenance can cause major problems for homeowners and can lead to costly repairs when left untreated. A lot of times homeowners tend to over look the importance of gutter maintenance. Clogged gutters can cause home damages due to water causing cracks in the foundation overtime. Which then could lead to more severe problem like mold and or the collapse of the structure. In most cases, when clogged gutters occur it can spill over the side and cause rot in the siding of the home. In colder climates, ice can form and cause a temporary block which most likely will cause an over flow. SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress has the right equipment to check for moister in the home, if this scenario applies to you. These are some recommendations from your trusted friends at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress. We ask that you do not hesitate to contact us (SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress) if you have any question or concerns.

How to Prevent Frozen Water Pipes

12/29/2017 (Permalink)

Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costliest property damage events during the cold winter months. In fact, a burst pipe can result in tens of thousands of dollars in damage. Fortunately, frozen pipes can be prevented quite easily and inexpensively.

Vulnerable pipes in existing homes should be fitted with insulation sleeves or wrapping to slow the heat transfer. It is important not to leave gaps in the insulation that expose the pipe to cold air. Hardware stores and home centers stock a variety of foam rubber and fiberglass sleeves, in various thicknesses.

When water is colder than 32 degrees Fahrenheit or zero degrees Celsius, it freezes into ice. When water freezes, it expands up to nine percent more than it did when it was water. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on metal or plastic pipes causing pipes to burst and water to leak.

Cracks and holes in outside walls and foundations near water pipes should be sealed with caulking to keep cold wind away from the pipes. Kitchen and bathroom cabinets can keep warm inside air from reaching pipes under sinks and in adjacent outside walls. It’s a good idea to keep cabinet doors open during cold spells to let the warm air circulate around the pipes.

Handling a Water Damage

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a systematic approach to restoring water damage and flood damage

Harvey Flooding

              We were all extremely affected by the hurricane this year. It either affected us, our family, our neighbor, or all the above. It flooded the city for multiple weeks. Getting to work was impossible. Water was scarce. Gas was scarce. In the end, we came together and worked hard to take care of each other. For most people, this was a first time having a flood inside of their property. How do I handle this? What do I do? People started calling their insurance agents and making claims to find out that flood insurance is the most complicated type of insurance. How do I handle a flood water damage inside of my property? In the next couple of blogs, I will explain in detail on how to get your property back to normal.

Handling a Water Damage Part II

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a systematic approach to restoring water damage and flood damage

First thing is to take a lot of videos and pictures of your property. If your house has flooded you need to do this. The next step is to call your insurance company and make a claim. They should, at this point, tell you to call a restoration company. I personally prefer that you call SERVPRO of Katy Cypress and Champions but what you should do is ask your insurance agent who they prefer and recommend as a restoration company. At this point you should call the restoration company and they will ask you some preliminary questions about the flood/water loss to your property. Some things to be aware of when it comes to flood damage to your property are that you may have flood insurance but you still have to go through FEMA.

Handling a Water Damage Part III

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a systematic approach to restoring water damage and flood damage

The fact that you must go through FEMA instead of your insurance company when it comes to a flood loss is something that most people do not know until their house is flooded. So when you deal with this that means that most restoration companies require half up front and half upon completion with reimbursement paperwork. When the restoration company gets to your house you are going to be in a stressful state of mind due to the fact that your house is flooded but now things are about to start normalizing. The restoration company will start taking out all porous materials affected by the water. This includes sheet rock and flooring (other than tile). While this takes a lot of hard work and time it is a necessary process of dealing with the flood damaged/water damaged house.

Handling a Water Damage Part IV

9/26/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has a systematic approach to restoring water damage and flood damage

After all of the porous materials are removed now the company should spray your house down with anti-microbial. Make sure that they are using an anti-microbial. If they do not then they are not abiding by the S500 which is the book that draws up the protocol for restoration. After they spray the house down they will place dehumidifiers and air movers in a vortex manner to get maximum dry air flow. Throughout the job from beginning to end the restoration company should be performing moisture readings and atmospheric readings to put into the drying logs to provide proof of work. Once the house has reached a drying goal the company can safely remove the equipment. Now your house should not smell terrible and be dry. So if you call a restoration company make sure that they, at the very least, abide by this summary of a flood job.

Air Be Moving

6/12/2017 (Permalink)

Airmovers and other equipment for SERVPRO

Air Movers are used for maximizing air flow and accelerating evaporation of moisture from materials for restorative drying. The number of air movers necessary depend upon the number of wet surfaces, the amount of water present and the ability for air to reach each wet material wall cavities behind cabinets under contents. Air movers are for indoor use only. Once the class of water loss is defined; the amount of air movement necessary is estimated. In class 1 water loss one air mover is needed for every 150-300 sq ft.(14- 28 sq.m.) In class 2 or 3 water loss one air mover is needed for every (10- 16 sq ft) 4-6 sq .m.is needed. Regardless of class an air mover is needed for every affected area, including every offset ,closet ,bay windows and room.

Moisture Meter

5/1/2017 (Permalink)

moisture meter

Thanks you Ladies and Gentleman for listening to my overall opinion on moisture meters. I have a lot experience with these devices, and always enjoy using them in the field. They are best used for detecting and monitoring moisture in materials. This device is one of the most used tools by a water technician.

When using the device daily, make sure you store meter in a clean and dry place. The protective carrying case provided is an ideal storage place when the meter is not in use. When the probe tips on the meter are pushed into materials to penetrate the surface, an electric current is sent between probes. The amount of moisture present in the material determines how easily the electrical current flows from one probe to another.

On non-wood materials, remember to use the reference scale. The readings on this scale are “dry to wet” indication of moisture and do not represent percent moisture content. Use a non-penetrating meter to determine the wettest points; then the penetrating meter to take more specific readings at that point. Set drying goals by monitoring the same type of materials in an unaffected area. Once you have a benchmark, bring the materials on the wet environment to an equal or drier state.

-The list of our services are water restoration, fire restoration, mold mitigation, storm response, move outs and contents restoration, electronic restoration, document drying, contents claim inventory service, reconstruction, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, air duct and HVAC cleaning, deodorization, biohazard and crime scene clean up, and vandalism cleaning in the greater Houston, Katy, Alief, Cypress, Champions, 1960, highway 6, Bellaire, Myerland area and many more!-

Categories of Water

3/20/2017 (Permalink)

Categories of Water

            Water Restoration is nothing to get excited about. If you are going to make jokes about it then make sure that you keep a dry humor about it. Here are SERVPRO of Katy Cypress and Champions 1960 we are certified experts on water restoration. When considering a water restoration job, you need to think about what category the water is. There are 3 categories of water. Here is what they are in further detail.

There is category 1 water. This water is clean water. It is so clean that you could safely drink. A great example of this water would be the water from the wet bandits, in the film ‘Home Alone’. If you have this water, then you are able to save the porous contents and not remove anything for the most part. The thing about category 1 water is it can quickly change to category 2 water. If the floors are dirty then it can immediately change.

-The list of our services are water restoration, fire restoration, mold mitigation, storm response, move outs and contents restoration, electronic restoration, document drying, contents claim inventory service, reconstruction, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, air duct and HVAC cleaning, deodorization, biohazard and crime scene clean up, and vandalism cleaning in the greater Houston, Katy, Alief, Cypress, Champions, 1960, highway 6, Bellaire, Myerland area and many more!-

Categories of Water Part II

3/20/2017 (Permalink)

Categories of Water Part II

There is category 2 water. This water is known as grey water. This water is not safe to drink. Some examples of category 2 water would be if a washing machine broke and the soapy water got all over the carpet. Another one would be a flushed toiled that overflowed that had urine in it but not any feces. In most cases if this water got all over the house all porous contents must be removed. This is dirty water and even if we dried it out your house is now filthy.

The last category water is category 3 water or black water. Things like sewer backups, storm water, toilet overflows with feces, and moldy water are considered category three water. If you have this water in your house the only thing to do is to remove all porous contents. We hope you never have a water damage but if you do then make sure you call us as soon as you can; timing is everything in water damages.

-The list of our services are water restoration, fire restoration, mold mitigation, storm response, move outs and contents restoration, electronic restoration, document drying, contents claim inventory service, reconstruction, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, air duct and HVAC cleaning, deodorization, biohazard and crime scene clean up, and vandalism cleaning in the greater Houston, Katy, Alief, Cypress, Champions, 1960, highway 6, Bellaire, Myerland area and many more!-

Water Restoration

3/13/2017 (Permalink)

Water Restoration team of Houston, Texas

We are experts in water restoration, fire restoration, mold remediation, and storm response.  These are things we do in Houston, Texas, Katy, Texas, Cypress, Texas, and any other place that we get called to. We take our job very seriously. Once we get the call it starts a process that we have done 1000 times.  

Once we get to the city that we are going to work in we get to our hotel first. After we get our hotel we start to make phone calls to all our clients that we expect to work with. We get their information and a quick rundown of what happened to their property. Then we set up a meeting time and date at their house so we can do a walk through of their property.

Once we show up to their property we do what we would do during a water damage job. We do a walk through of the property with the client. The client shows us (SERVPRO of Katy Cypress ) what is wrong with their property. They show us what happened and where the origin of the water damage happened. If it was a pipe burst or if it was a flood we will know soon enough. We take a moisture meter or a moisture detector and check to see what is affected with moisture and what is still dry. After we have determined whether they need us we then get all of the proper paperwork filled out to get the job started.

If the water is a CAT I then we can dry everything in place. If the water is CAT II or higher than the required work is different. This water is dirty. So, all porous materials must be removed. This includes things such as but not limited to carpets, drywall, insulation, rugs, drapes, blankets, and anything that can absorb water.

-The list of our services are water restoration, fire restoration, mold mitigation, storm response, move outs and contents restoration, electronic restoration, document drying, contents claim inventory service, reconstruction, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, air duct and HVAC cleaning, deodorization, biohazard and crime scene clean up, and vandalism cleaning in the greater Houston, Katy, Alief, Cypress, Champions, 1960, highway 6, Bellaire, Myerland area and many more!-

Water Restoration Part II

3/13/2017 (Permalink)

Water Restoration team of Katy, Texas

After we remove porous materials we see if other materials need to be removed. For instance, if the water is dirty and it is trapped under vinyl or wood flooring usually we must remove it. This is always a bummer because the homeowner or property owner always thinks that it is dry because to the naked eye it is dry. The only thing that says it is wet is the moister meter. We can determine exactly how wet it is. Also, we know that we have to remove the flooring if the moisture is trapped under there because if we do not then mold will grow afterwards. Then you must remove it anyways and also deal with mold growth.

After all porous materials are gone we now must deal with determining how many air movers are necessary and how much dehumidification is necessary. We use laser measurements and a software to tell us exactly how much we need. After we figure out how much dehumidification and air moving is necessary we then bring in the equipment and place it to be as efficient as possible.

We then come back periodically to check the equipment. We have a drying point that we are aiming for. We do moister meter checks throughout the house and let the equipment sit until the house or property is dry.

After we have reached the drying point then we get all the proper signatures and remove the equipment. Now you house is ready for a rebuild and dry as it was before the mess!

These are the steps we (SERVPRO of Katy Cypress and Champions 1960) take to make sure that our customers are taken care of. We make sure that all the contents are stored electronically and everything that is restorable is restored. This protects the customer and the insurance agent. As a SERVPRO franchise we do our best to make sure everyone is happy that they hired us!

-The list of our services are water restoration, fire restoration, mold mitigation, storm response, move outs and contents restoration, electronic restoration, document drying, contents claim inventory service, reconstruction, carpet cleaning, upholstery cleaning, air duct and HVAC cleaning, deodorization, biohazard and crime scene clean up, and vandalism cleaning in the greater Houston, Katy, Alief, Cypress, Champions, 1960, highway 6, Bellaire, Myerland area and many more!-

After the Vacation

6/24/2016 (Permalink)

Coming Home to This

It's summertime and many families are setting out on road trips and other family vacations. One of the worst feelings is having an amazing vacation only to return to your home to find that a major disaster occurred while you were away. It is one thing for a pipe to burst or a water leak to occur when you are home, and quite another for the water leak to be left unattended for an extended amount of time. We at SERVPRO of Katy/Cypress are here to help. We offer 24/7/365 Emergency Service to customers in our area. No matter how big or small the damage, we can help clean it up "Like it never even happened"! Call us today and we will be happy to get you started on the road to recovery.

Houston Flooding

5/3/2016 (Permalink)

We have trucks ready to go at any time.

These past three weeks at SERVPRO have been hectic to say the least. Terrible hail storms happened in Dallas and then the rain that came after the hail cause terrible water damage. As a water damage restoration company we packed our bags and sent some teams up there to help fix the damages. We worked 15 hour days for two weeks straight. Then when everything seemed to be calming down the floods in Houston happened. I was in my hotel room when we got the call at 2:30 in the morning that we were going to need to send all but one crew back to Houston. Our office flooded. My own house flooded. Everyone in Houston knows how bad it was. Through hard work from everyone we have gotten our lives back to normal.

24/7

3/9/2016 (Permalink)

Watch out for all the rain headed our way. Should the need for water mitigation arise, be sure to call SERVPRO for all of your disaster recovery needs. We can make it "Like it never even happened."