Storm Safety: Preparing for Peak Hurricane Activity with SERVPRO of Bath

8/18/2023 (Permalink)

Our team has a fleet ready for whenever disaster strikes.

As hurricane season approaches its peak in the Eastern United States, preparedness becomes paramount. The time to plan and prepare is now. SERVPRO® of Bath offers expert advice on storm safety and is ready to assist with restoration services should disaster strike.

Hurricane Preparedness Tips:

• Stay Informed: Regularly monitor weather forecasts and heed advisories from local authorities.
• Create an Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials such as water, non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, first aid supplies, and important documents.
• Protect Your Property: Secure windows and doors, clear debris, trim trees, and consider installing hurricane shutters.
• Plan an Evacuation Route: Know where to go if evacuation becomes necessary, and practice the route with family members.
• Prepare for Power Outages: Charge devices, have extra batteries, and consider a backup generator.
• Protect Pets: Ensure you have provisions for your pets and a safe place for them to stay.

During the Storm:

• Stay Inside: Seek shelter in an interior room away from windows and doors.
• Avoid Electrical Equipment: Stay away from anything connected to electricity if your home is flooding.
• Keep Updated: Continue to monitor weather updates and follow any instructions from local officials.

After the Storm:

• Check for Injuries: Attend to any injuries and seek medical help if needed.
• Assess Damage Carefully: Avoid downed power lines and report them to authorities.
• Capture Evidence: Document damage with photographs for insurance purposes.
• Call SERVPRO of Bath: We’re available 24/7 for immediate assistance with storm damage restoration.

SERVPRO of Bath's Storm Restoration Services:

• Rapid Response: We're committed to responding immediately to your emergency.
• Highly Trained Professionals: Our technicians have the skills to handle any storm damage situation.
• Advanced Equipment: From water extraction to drying and dehumidification, we use the best technology available.

With proper planning and preparedness, you can help protect your family and property. SERVPRO of Bath stands ready to help you navigate the storm's aftermath, providing professional restoration services when you need them most.

When disaster strikes, we're here to make it "Like it never even happened." 

The Hidden Dangers of Water Damage: What Homeowners Need to Know

4/13/2023 (Permalink)

Water can be incredibly invasive, requiring a trained eye to handle it properly.

Water damage is an all-too-common issue faced by many homeowners, but what most people don't realize is that there's more to it than just cleaning up the visible mess. Let's take a look at some dangers associated with water damage and how SERVPRO® of Bath can help you mitigate these risks.

1. The lurking threat of mold growth: Mold is a natural byproduct of excess moisture, and when water damage occurs, it creates the perfect environment for mold to thrive. Mold can begin to grow quickly after water exposure, and if left untreated, it can cause structural damage and potential health effects. SERVPRO® of Bath has trained technicians to help.

2. The risk of structural damage: Water damage can weaken your home's structural integrity by causing wood to rot, metals to corrode, and drywall to deteriorate. This damage can be difficult to detect, as it often occurs behind walls or in hard-to-reach places. Our team at SERVPRO® of Bath can conduct thorough inspections to assess the extent of the water damage and take necessary steps to restore the affected areas.

3. Hidden moisture and humidity problems: Even after the visible water has been removed, excess moisture and humidity can linger in your home, leading to further damage and potential health issues. We use advanced drying techniques and equipment to ensure that your home is properly dried, preventing long-term issues.

4. Electrical hazards: Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, and water damage can pose a significant risk to your home's electrical system. It's important to have a professional assess the situation and take appropriate precautions to ensure the safety of your home and its occupants.

Water damage may seem like a straightforward issue to handle, but the hidden dangers it poses make it a serious concern for homeowners. SERVPRO® of Bath is equipped to deal with all aspects of water damage restoration, ensuring that your home is safe and sound. If you suspect water damage in your home, don't hesitate to contact us for assistance.

Toilet Prevention Tips for Washington NC

9/22/2022 (Permalink)

We are available for emergency water damage 24/7/365!

You never know when you will need emergency water restoration services, but when you do, you can count on the professionals at SERVPRO® of Bath. Here are some tips from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety for inspecting and preventing toilet failure:

• Be patient after you flush and wait for the valve to finish refilling the tank and bowl. If an overflow looks imminent, lift off the tank cover, lift the float to shut off the water flow to the tank, and then turn off the supply valve.

• Twice a year, inspect a toilet’s components, such as the fill, supply, and flush valves and the supply line. Make sure you can turn off the water supply. If you have older screw-type valves that are hard to turn or start leaking, consider replacing them with simpler ball valves that are easy to shut off quickly.

Sewage backups should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. Our technicians have the training, equipment, protective gear, and experience to safely restore sewer backups.

Call Us!

When your Washington home or commercial business has a water damage emergency, SERVPRO® of Bath is Here to Help. ® Our technicians typically arrive within four hours of your call. Call us today at 252-923-0213.

Avoid Common Water Damage Mistakes

8/15/2022 (Permalink)

Let our fast response team eliminate further mold growth due to water damage on your property.

When Your Washington Home Suffers Water Intrusion, Rely on SERVPRO to Mitigate Damages

Water damage usually is more than what comes to your mind when you read the phrase. While we only expect to deal with water, more destruction results whenever such incidents hit our property. Mold and electrical hazards are part of the expensive damage that your Hampton structure may experience during those stressful moments.

You might make a mistake if you look at the surface and imagine it is the only water damage challenge to address in your Washington home. The work of SERVPRO IICRC certified technicians is to look beyond the obvious and trace the water which might be under the carpets and walls. Specialized tools such as moisture meters and sensors make that possible. We can conduct a thorough inspection that allows us to identify the content of moisture on your property and specific locations with these devices.

Another mistake that most homeowners make is attempting to pump the water from a flooded basement. While it appears to be a straightforward job, hidden dangers need professional intervention. For instance, wet foundation walls and ceilings might collapse as a result of water damage. We inspect all that before we can start the restoration process, and if necessary, we perform necessary demolitions to prevent any possible hazards during the process.

After pumping out all the standing water, it is time to begin the drying process. At that stage, we set up dehumidifiers and air movers. It is important to call our SERVPRO team as soon as you can to increase the chances of salvaging as much of your content as possible. For instance, if you delay and find out that the drywall and flooring have 25 - 50 % moisture, retrieving them might not be possible. Once drying is complete, we clean the surfaces and sanitize them using antimicrobial agents to decrease the chances of mold growth.

SERVPRO of Bath responds to all sizes of disasters, whether reported on commercial or residential premises. Call us at (252)-923-0213 and be served by a proven industry leader.

How To Identify and Locate Shower Leaks in Your Home

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Follow these steps, Identify and Locate Shower Leaks, and Avoid Water Damage in your property.

A shower or bathtub leak can cause extensive damage to your Bath, NC, home in a short amount of time. Unfortunately, such leaks are not always obvious. The longer you allow a shower leak to linger, the more problems it will cause.

Conversely, if you identify a bathroom leak right away, you can quickly contact a disaster restoration company. Professionals can then address the issue before it causes extensive damage.

Knowing how to detect a bathtub or shower leak is thus an important skill. Here are four signs of a potential bathroom leak in your home.

4 Signs of a Shower or Bathtub Leak

1. Floor Damage

Most bathroom floors are designed to withstand a bit of water. After all, some liquid probably spills onto the floor each time you shower or bathe. However, if you notice cracks or stains on the floor, there is probably excess water leaking in the bathroom.

2. Wall Warping

Bathroom walls are similarly able to hand a basic amount of water. If they start to bow or stain, they are likely being exposed to liquid from a leak. You should regularly check the wallpaper and paint for blisters, as well. That is because water leaks can affect the bond between the wall and its covering.

3. Ceiling Stains

Water in the bathroom may seep through the floors and stain the ceiling of the room below. Blistered paint or a sagging ceiling is another potential warning sign.

4. Mold Sights and Smells

Since mold thrives in moist areas, it is a telltale sign of excess water. Mold in grout or caulk could be evidence of a hidden leak. Even if you do not see mold, a musty odor could be evidence of the fungus.

Possible Locations of a Bathtub or Shower Leak

Once you suspect that there is a leak in your bathroom, you need to discover the source of the problem. You could have a drain, tile, floor, shower head or shower pan leak.

There are different tests you can perform to identify the location and cause of the leak. Start by checking the shower head for clogs.

Water could also seep behind walls if you have cracked tiles in the shower. Try soaking each shower wall individually to see if any leaks become apparent.

The shower floor is another common leak location. Test for floor problems by emptying several buckets of water into the tub or shower. You may have to wait several hours before any signs of a leak develop.

Once you have definitively concluded that you have a bathtub or shower leak, it is time to call in the professionals. The water from a leak can rot various wooden support fixtures, causing roaches and other bugs to enter the premises. Mildew and mold could also grow in damp areas of the home. The restoration process is thus often complex and should only be attempted by experts.

A shower or bathtub leak can cause great harm to your home. Recognizing the signs of a leak and understanding how to identify the leak's location should help you address the issue promptly.

Faster to your Water Damage Event

3/8/2022 (Permalink)

Our Quick Service can avoid a lot of Water Damage in your property. For more questions, just contact us.

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

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. However, 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.

Water Damage Timeline

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.

About SERVPRO of Bath, NC

Our professionals specialize 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

Taking Care of Your Home After Water Damage

11/26/2021 (Permalink)

Call a professional team if your Bath, NC home suffers a water disaster.

A water disaster is often unexpected and overwhelming for homeowners. The immediate shock of the event leaves families reeling, trying to salvage what they can after a broken pipe or other water issues lead to flooding in the home. While shocking, it is crucial to excavate water in the home before it turns into a more extensive problem, like mold infestations. It is best to contact a remediation specialist in Bath, NC, for assistance when you need to recover after a water disaster. These professionals perform several services to help you through the recovery process:

• Property assessment
• Water excavation
• Cleaning and disinfecting
• Property restoration
  

Why You Should Call a Professional To Help With a Broken Pipe Repair

With the rising popularity of DIY methods and the self-sufficient homeowner, most people would rather fix a plumbing problem themselves than hire a competent professional. However, while being self-sufficient is an admirable trait, it is best to hire an experienced professional to ensure any issues are resolved correctly when it comes to your home's essential systems.

Pipe Breaks Can Lead To Extensive Cleanup

While some plumbing issues do not require much effort to clean up and repair, breaks often come with extensive problems, including flooding. The significant cleanup can often be too much for a homeowner to deal with alone, especially when time is of the essence.

Many homeowners know that mold can stem from water problems, but many fail to acknowledge that mold can begin to form in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water exposure. Therefore, an immediate and thorough response is necessary to prevent future concerns when dealing with a break.

Remediation companies come prepared to water disasters with pumps, shop vacs, and pump trucks. They also arrive with fans and air movers. With their equipment, professionals are capable of removing water from a property quicker than most homeowners can alone.

Cleanup Is Just As Crucial As Water Removal

It is not enough to remove excess water from the home; you will also need to clean and sanitize the space. Even when water comes from a clean source, the water will not remain clean for long. Too many property owners think that just mopping up excess water is good enough. Still, if the water sits on the floor and is combined with other chemicals, organisms, or materials, it is not a clean water source, meaning disinfection is necessary.

A professional mitigation company can help assess the water to determine its category and contamination level. Once they understand the potential risks of water exposure, they can clean and clear the area. The methods a professional uses to remove water will depend on the level of contamination, which is another reason the average homeowner should not attempt water cleanup alone.

A broken pipe often results in a flood from a clean water source. While some homeowners might feel confident in attempting a repair alone, the contamination and repair difficulty should be enough to discourage DIY methods. Do not let ego or cost affect your decision to have a professional repair your property.

Is It Necessary To Call a Restoration Company for a Pipe Burst Cleanup?

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

We are always ready for a pipe burst cleanup in your Bath, NC building.

Not every pipe burst cleanup will require the skilled and qualified hands of a professional mitigation company in Bath, NC. Sometimes, a pipe burst might occur under a facility sink with PVC connectors, which are easy enough to reconnect and seal. However, some situations will require a professional, and knowing when to call them in is not always obvious.

3 Reasons To Call an Expert for a Pipe Burst Cleanup

A broken pipe, a split in the supply line; each problem is a potential cause for alarm and need for a professional plumber or technician. However, who you call and how you respond often have to do with the severity of the problem and your personal skills.

Knowing when to call a professional is not always easy, but there are ways to assess whether you need a skilled tradesperson or you can resolve the issues on your own. For commercial facilities, there are three ways to determine the need for a professional technician.

1. Water Category

The primary factor determining the need for a sewer cleanup company or in-house cleanup is the water category. Water disasters occur at three category levels. Category one is clean water, and depending on the severity of the damage, you can ask your maintenance to resolve the issue.

Category two is gray water, meaning it is slightly contaminated. With category two, it is best to hire a professional. If you choose to clean gray water, make sure you wear appropriate protective clothing.

Category three is black water. It is the most contaminated and dangerous of all flood categories. Category three floods typically stem from sewage backups. You should never handle category three water. Always hire a professional.

2. Insurance Claim

If the water damage is extensive enough that you will file an insurance claim, you will probably want to hire a professional for the cleanup. In fact, your commercial insurance provider will typically insist on a professional cleanup and restoration.

Before an insurance company will payout on a claim, it ensures the work is guaranteed and performed by a professional. The company does not want to get a claim request later for issues that should have been resolved with an initial plumbing repair.

3. Restoration

While minor leaks are easy enough to repair without concern over significant restoration efforts, major disasters, like a burst pipe, can damage other building elements, from walls to flooring. A professional restoration company is more capable of repairing structural and cosmetic damage. In fact, some companies pride themselves on restoring your property to pre-disaster conditions, "Like it never even happened."

A pipe burst cleanup does not always require a professional restoration company, but it depends on the size and amount of damage. Minor issues, like a cracked pipe under the sink, can typically be resolved by in-house maintenance. However, significant issues, like a burst supply line, will often require a more seasoned and professional approach. Additionally, anytime water is contaminated, insurance is involved, or significant restoration is needed, it is best to consult and work with an experienced water restoration company in Bath, NC.

How To Prevent a Flooded Basement

9/23/2021 (Permalink)

Avoid water damage to prevent a flooded basement in your Washington, NC, home.

Depending on the area of the country your Washington, NC, home is in, it may be more or less prone to a basement flood or excess moisture. The majority of basements will naturally be more humid than the rest of the house because of their location in the ground. Your homeowners insurance coverage probably covers some flood situations, but not all. There are steps you can take to ensure as much as possible that your basement won't endure flood or any other type of water damage.

How Can I Keep My Basement from Flooding?

1. Maintain Gutters and Downspouts

Regularly inspect and maintain your roof's gutters and downspouts. Make sure they're clear of leaves and other debris. The water should drain at least six feet, ideally 12 feet, from the house and downhill and away from the house. Purchase metal add-on extensions; they're higher quality than plastic and are less likely to leak. You can also install underground PVC pipes to drain water and direct it to another yard area. These pipes are a good option if you don't have enough room for downspout extensions.

2. Install and Maintain a Sump Pump

Having a sump pump can save your potentially flooded basement from a lot of water damage. It should have a 120 volt UPS backup power supply. These UPS power supplies will continue running during a power failure. It should also be equipped with a check valve to drain outside but won't be able to flow back in.

3. Inspect the Drywall

Drywall works like a sponge in a basement flood, wicking moisture from the floor into the walls. Since concrete slabs are prone to seeping water, the drywall should be installed at least 1 inch above the floor to avoid contact with water. You can also get fiberglass-faced drywall that won't wick moisture and isn't mold-friendly.

4. Check for Wall Cracks

Inspect your basement's foundation walls for small, vertical cracks. All houses settle, which causes small cracks. A professional foundation contractor can repair them.

5. Install a Dehumidifier

Install a dehumidifier to eliminate excess moisture that is almost sure to build in your basement. Water damage restoration professionals will advise you to get a dehumidifier with an optional drain hose. This hose will drain the water automatically instead of you having to remember to empty the water receptacle. It's humid much of the year in many areas, especially in basements, so it's best to keep the dehumidifier running 24/7. Having drier air will also keep your air conditioning bill down.

6. Protect Your Flooring

If you have flooring in your partially finished or full basement, it must have a 10 mil plastic vapor barrier between the padding and concrete slab. The padding will soak up any seeping water from the concrete slab, then soak into your carpet or wooden flooring without this barrier. If your basement is carpeted, make sure it's made of synthetic materials. These materials dry quicker and are less prone to mold than other types of carpet.

A basement flood is one thing homeowners hope never to have to encounter. Follow these tips for keeping your basement comfortable and dry.

Dealing With Category 3 Water Damage

8/16/2021 (Permalink)

The bathrooms in your commercial building in Washington, NC, need the labor of licensed and insured professionals.

Bathrooms in commercial facilities often experience more use than a traditional bathroom in a house. The increased activity can result in several common problems, including toilet overflow and category three flood water.

The removal process for such damage is risky, requiring the skilled labor of licensed and insured professionals. The team you hire will likely take a three-step approach to flood recovery:

• Remove excess water
• Disinfect the area and discard items
• Restore the facility

Dealing With the Immediate Problem

The primary concern is the removal of wastewater. However, if the flooding has not stopped, the team of removal specialists will need to find the source.

Once the primary issue is resolved, the crew can begin removing the black water from the facility. This is a job best left to professionals, and in many areas, the state requires it.

The team of professionals understands the risks of working with contaminated water. They will take every precaution to protect themselves and the people in the immediate vicinity, including those living in surrounding areas. You cannot simply dump wastewater outside or into a nearby sewer. There are protocols every mitigation professional must follow.

Disinfect, Discard, and Dry

After all excess flood water is removed, the company you hire can start the cleanup. Any items that touched the water will be discarded. It is doubtful that anything within the flood zone can or should be salvaged.

The team of mitigation experts will also start cleaning the space using disinfectants and deodorizers. Do not be alarmed when your facility begins to look worse. The mitigation company will likely remove portions of the wall and other building materials to eliminate the risk of spreading contamination.

The company you hire will also focus on drying the space. It will likely use fans, dehumidifiers, and air movers to help speed up the drying time.
Restoration

Once the facility is dry and sanitized, the restoration company will focus on rebuilding the property. The initial core focus will be on any structural repairs. Once the structure is sound, the company will replace drywall and flooring and make any other cosmetic repairs.

The goal of restoration is to make the facility appear as before. By using a reputable company, you will not be able to tell the difference between the building's pre-disaster and the repaired structure. The results should be seamless, allowing business owners to return to operations with total confidence.

Category three flood water is nothing to play around with. It is destructive and highly contaminated, and it presents a significant risk to people. While many business owners often prefer DIY approaches, such approaches are not possible and are ill-advised when dealing with black water. It is better to work with a restoration specialist with the appropriate knowledge and skills to handle the situation safely.

How To Save Paper Items With Water Damage

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

A flood may cause severe water damage.

A flood in your home in Washington, NC, can leave your important papers drenched and unreadable. Fortunately, that doesn't automatically mean they're lost forever. Whether the damage is caused by a busted pipe or a leak from the attic after a heavy rain, water damage mitigation experts have many different document restoration procedures they can use to save the papers that are important to you.

Document Restoration Procedures

Damaged Items

Professional document drying techniques have a wide variety of uses. You may be surprised how many different items can be saved:

• Paper documents
  
• Photographs
  
• Files
  
• Books
  
• Magazines
  
• Parchment
  

Even film, x-rays, blueprints and microfiche records can be revitalized through the techniques used by certified technicians. Before you throw them away, it's worth seeing if they can be salvaged first.

Disinfection Process

Sometimes your items need more than just drying. If your home is flooded by contaminated water, document restoration procedures must also include a disinfection step. To clean delicate items such as paper documents or photographs, technicians use gamma irradiation. The gamma rays break down the bacteria at the DNA level, sterilizing the item and leaving no contamination behind.

Streamlined Service

A benefit of using SERVPRO to conduct your flood mitigation is that document digitization and cleaning are part of the overall service that the team provides. Certified technicians can back up your data securely so that you never have to worry about water damage threatening its safety again. When the same team handles the cleanup of both the documents and the house itself, the whole process runs much more smoothly and efficiently.

Even if your important papers, photos and book collection get soaked in a flood, document restoration experts may be able to save them. Even if the flood water is dirty, there is still hope.Technicians employ various drying and cleaning techniques to ensure that as little precious data and as few fond memories are lost as possible.

What You Should Know About Sewer Cleanup

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

Sewer backup can cause severe damage.

A sewer backup is one of the nastiest things that can happen. Not only does it smell bad, but it can also be extremely dangerous. It usually involves grey or black water and can cause you to be very ill if you come into contact with raw sewage.

Black water is the most dangerous and consists of completely contaminated water.
Grey water is moderately dangerous and consists of floodwater that does not contain feces or other serious contaminants. This requires a sewer cleanup company to repair.

Both of these can result in illness if you do not have them cleaned up properly.

What To Do About Sewer Cleanup

What You Can Do

The first thing that you need to know about major sewer damage is don't attempt it yourself. Although there are a few things that you can do on your own, you should always use a remediation company in Washington, NC, to clean any major flooding.
You can open windows, throw out disposable items and move items outside. You can also clean up small spills and minor things like a flooded toilet.

What Professionals Will Do

Professional sewer cleanup companies have the knowledge, equipment and experience to deal with broken sewer pipes or a large backup.
The first thing they will do is to extract or clean any large areas that have been contaminated. They vacuum and remove large debris and floodwater.
Then they dry every surface using fans and air dryers. After things are dried out, the company sanitizes nonporous surfaces. This includes floors, carpets, walls and anything else that needs it.
Not even a proper sewer cleanup can decontaminate every surface. Surfaces that cannot be sanitized are removed for disposal.
Once this is finished, they decontaminate what items are left and deoterize your home. Once this process is complete, the company collects up the debris into the proper recepticals for disposal according to city, state and federal guidelines.

A major sewer backup can be both problematic and dangerous. If you are having sewer troubles, always be sure that you clean properly to avoid contamination and illness.

What Is Secondary Damage?

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Water from a flood can cause substantial damage.

Water from a flood or leak in a home can cause substantial damage to the structure and contents. The damage directly caused by the initial water event is called primary damage. However, water can also cause other types of damage, such as black mold. These are referred to as secondary damage.

What Secondary Damage Is

This damage is any damage done to your property as a result of a water event after that event has stopped occurring. For example, if your home floods and standing water remains in your home for several days after the flood, the damage caused by that standing water would be considered secondary. There are several common examples of secondary water damage:

• Mold growth
  
• Corrosion
  
• Electrical damage
  
• Material damage
  
• Wood rot
  

Mold Growth

Black mold and other types of fungus thrive in wet environments and areas with high humidity, such as homes with standing water from a flood event. Mold can begin growing in a flooded home in as little as 24 hours, which makes it particularly important to dry out your home as quickly as possible. Once mold has begun to spread, you may need the assistance of a mold remediation company in Washington, NC, to remove it.

Other Secondary Damage

Water that seeps into electrical sockets can cause severe damage to the electrical systems of your home. Metal pipes, vents and other fixtures may corrode when exposed to flood water for extended periods of time. Additionally, materials such as wood, drywall, flooring and structural components may crack, sag, buckle or rot. The longer standing water remains in the home, the more likely these problems are to occur.

Standing water and high levels of moisture in your home can lead to black mold and other issues that can further damage your property. Drying out your home quickly can reduce the amount of damage that occurs.

Difference between Blackwater and Greywater

1/21/2021 (Permalink)

Lear about the difference between black and greywater.

Every single day we use water, it is the most important thing for man and all living things to survive. Most water is collected as wastewater. Our daily activities and chores that involve using water, produce wastewater which is collected in tanks. Wastewater has two categories, blackwater and greywater. These two different kinds of wastewater must be kept in separate tanks because they each have different levels of contamination and are treated differently.

2 Different Categories of Wastewater

Blackwater

Blackwater is wastewater from toilets and bathrooms that include fecal matter and urine. Also known as sewage or brown water, it can carry disease causing bacteria that are harmful to anyone who encounters it. Blackwater can also be referred to as floodwater that generally comes from overflowing bodies of water as a result of heavy rain, hurricanes, tsunamis or typhoons that combine with sewage water that can be overloaded with bacteria. Recycled blackwater is only used as fertilizer, it must be processed and decomposed accurately to destroy the bacteria.

Greywater

Greywater is wastewater that comes from sinks, washing machines, and bathtubs. It doesn’t have as many contaminants as blackwater and is easier to treat. Recycled greywater can ne used for irrigation and in constructed wetlands. If the greywater is from the sink, food particles from it can help nourish plants. Recycled greywater is very useful when it comes to times of drought when water is scarce.

Never drink grey water or blackwater, if you have an issue with either one, you need to address it and fix it, right away. If greywater goes untreated, it can turn to black water within 48 to 72 hours.

How to Spot Water Damage in your Home

1/20/2021 (Permalink)

Check your floors for water damage.

One thing most homeowners hate is water damage. If left untreated, water damage can impact your home's structure and even create other complications, such as mold that can cause health effects, to you and your young children.

4 Ways to Detect Water Damage

Here is a list of how to detect water damage in your home:

1. Check your floors. For tile and wood flooring check for cracked or warped flooring. For carpet be on the lookout for damp and soft spots, gradual rises, and the smell of mold.
2. Inspect the Outside. When checking the exterior of your home look for pools of standing water which indicate poor yard drainage. Leaky rain gutters or gutters that don't transport water far enough away from the house. Roof water damage usually consists of cracked, curled, or missing shingles and pools of water.
3. Mold. You can't solely depend on actually seeing mold to know you have it. Oftentimes, you can smell it as well. When water stagnates, mold and bacteria can grow, which produces an unpleasant, musty smell.
4. Look for Stains. Water stains on the ceiling, walls, or in your bathroom around the bathtub and sink are the most common signs of water damage. When paint starts peeling off the walls it could be a sign of loose water within your wall spaces. Also, areas in the wall and ceiling that seem swollen and soft to the touch are another sign of water trouble.

If you read this and realize you have any of the signs for water damage, SERVPRO of Bath can help. It's better to get the problem taken care of sooner than later, before damage potentially becomes worse.

4 Things That Cause Leaking Toilets

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

It's important to repair a leaking toilet to avoid further damage.

A leaking toilet can cause a lot of damage if you don't correct the issue early on. Just one leaky toilet can waste hundreds of gallons each year, increasing your water bill and causing a lot of damage to your home. Before you end up investing in expensive water restoration and cleanup work, take steps to determine the cause of the problem:

4 Steps to Determine The Cause of a Leaking Toilet

1. Faulty Flapper and/or Valve

If your toilet runs continuously after you flush it, the most likely problem is a flapper that isn't lifting or closing properly. When you flush, a chain connected to the toilet handle lifts up the flapper and then releases the flapper to close, prompting the refill cycle. If the flapper doesn't close securely, the toilet may continue to run until you fix it.

2. Toilet Fill Valve Problems

There are several things that can cause problems with the toilet fill valve. For example, debris may get into the valve, valves could get broken, and cheap valves often wear out quickly. A damaged or malfunctioning valve could cause the toilet to run or stop the toilet from flushing. It's important to understand that even if you don't hear the water running, you could still have a bathroom leak.

3. Worn or Damaged Wax Seal

At the base of the toilet, there's a wax seal that keeps water inside the plumbing system. When the ring ages, you may notice a small pool of water around the leaking toilet. Although you need to remove the toilet to complete this repair, it's a pretty straightforward process, and many homeowners tackle this repair on their own.

4. Expert Only Problems

There are some issues that you should leave to the professionals. Some examples of these problems include a broken tank flange or an improperly installed toilet. You certainly don't want to leave a repair only partially completed or improperly completed, especially when new leaks won't be visible because they're inside the toilet.

Reach out to plumbers and other professionals in Washington, NC, for more information about the most common toilet issues and the repairs that you can complete on your own. You'll be glad to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

Eliminating moisture in your commercial property can prevent the development of mold

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bath uses technologically advanced equipment to dry and prevent damage to your property

If you own commercial property in and around Washington and Bath, NC and it’s exposed to water damage, you need to get rid of the moisture quickly. Water damage can cause the development and spread of molds which were started by mold spores. The spores can occur naturally but they key is to not let standing water cultivate their growth. When you contract a water restoration company like SERVPRO of Bath, we’ll can make sure you won't have to contend with the aftereffects of water damage, such as mold.

When you call our Bath office, you’ll talk to our trained professionals and they will arrive at your place of business quickly. Before beginning water removal, our technicians will identify the source of the water damage, assess your needs and put together a plan of action. We’ll start with powerful pumps and wet vacs to remove large quantities of water to help prevent any possible secondary water damage that could occur. Our water remediation specialists will use sanitizer to disinfect your property which is the key to preventing bacteria and mold from growing and spreading. After we removed any damaged flooring, insulation and/or drywall, the dehumidifiers and air-movers will be set up around your place of business to dry affected areas.

Water damage can be difficult to deal with but having the right professionals on your side who can take the right course of action will alleviate your stress and preserve your property’s structural integrity. It's important to call in a team of restoration professionals who handle remediation and restoration processes quickly and with skill. This ensures your result of water damage will be reduced. The team you can trust is SERVPRO of Bath. Our goal is to restore your property and structure to its preloss condition in the most efficient time

As a locally owned and operated business, SERVPRO of Bath is strategically located in eastern North Carolina to respond quickly to water damage quickly. Call us today.

After water damage from a storm, it’s time to dry out!

6/15/2020 (Permalink)

When you think of water damage, you think about the aftermath of a heavy rain storm or a severe storm such as a hurricane. Water damage from a failed plumbing issue occurs often, however water damage from a heavy rain or storm is typically more severe. Storm damage to even the most moderately sized home can run into thousands of dollars of damage. Furniture, carpets, and other high-end household items in your home only add to the cost of the damage when they are affected. 

When SERVPRO of Bath receives a call to a property with water damage from a storm, our professionally trained technicians are ready to quickly respond quickly and remove water from the home as quickly as possible. Immediately beginning the drying process of both personal and structural property is key. One of the pieces of drying equipment our team begins with is the set-up of dehumidifiers. They actually draw water from the air and other property such as curtains and upholstered furniture. Removing the moisture and lowering the humidity levels in your home will create a drier environment which will allow evaporation to happen quicker and this will help save building materials like drywall and moldings.

As the dehumidifiers do their job, SERVPRO of Bath technicians will begin using extraction devices to dry carpets. For most carpets, that means using extraction wands to effectively remove water from both the carpets and the pads. For thicker carpets, we will also use a riding extractor. This is a large device and  someone typically rides on top and uses their weight to press down on the wet carpeting which allows the machine to remove more water. Most carpet pads are cheap and we usually advise replacing the padding rather than attempting to dry them, whether we replace the carpeting or not.

SERVPRO of Bath takes these types of actions first, to reduce and eliminate the effects of water damage in your home. If you need us to help return your home to a safe, dry condition, give us a call today.

How to Protect Your Home in Bath, NC from Breached Pipes

2/20/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Bath would like to offer homeowners what we think are some helpful household tips.

Did you know, that according to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), an average cost associated with a breach in your pipes can be up $5,000, and even more if there are water damage expenses? Did you also know that pipe insulation, which you can easily install yourself around exposed piping, costs as little as fifty cents per linear foot?

Here are some places in your home that we suggest you inspect for possible water:

• All your pipes along your exterior walls.
• Under sinks – kitchen and bathroom,
• Your attic, and
• The creepy crawl spaces under the house.

Here are some simple signs of breached pipe you should be searching for:

• Wet spots under sinks, counters and cabinets,
• Slow drains,
• Clogs throughout your home,
• Wet spots in yard, and
• Sewer odors coming from your yard.

In case of an emergency, every homeowner should know where their home’s main water shut off valve is located. This shut off is usually located outside the house, but if you can’t locate it, ask someone who might be able to help you.

If you do experience any water damage due to a pipe burst call SERVPRO of Bath immediately. The safest way to prevent extended water damage is to call in our team so our professionals get begin the restoration process.

It's The Water You Don't See that Causes the Most Damage

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious indoor air quality and structural issues to property over time.

The key to preventing expensive future restoration costs is to handle every water problem immediately and as a real threat to your property. And, using the proper equipment makes a huge difference in reducing the expenses caused during a water damage loss. When time matters most, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform as it should.

Here are a few tools used by the trained professional at SERVPRO of Bath to properly mitigate a loss;

• Moisture Sensors – these are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.
• Moisture Meters – these are used to determine the moisture content of various materials. The meter provides readings to accurately monitor the drying process.
• Thermo Hygrometers – this measures temperature and relative humidity which calculates and creates an environment that is most conducive to drying. When handling a contaminated loss, you need to not only dry the structure, but disinfect and deodorize it.
• Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers are used to atomize liquid deodorizing agents. These produce a fine mist that easily penetrates the site where odor-causing residues can accumulate. It can also be used to inject disinfectants and fungicides into walls and other hard-to-reach areas.
• Thermal Foggers – they dispense solvent-based products and create a dense fog consisting of tiny particles of a deodorant solution that will attach to and neutralize odor causing particles.

So, the bottom line is this,  ALWAYS treat water damage seriously. Call in a professional team like SERVPRO of Bath. We will work for you to restore your property and so you can move on with life.

Type of Water Damage and Classifications That Can Happen to your Property

2/14/2020 (Permalink)

In this blog, we will be explaining some of the basics of water damage and how they can affect your home and your health. Water damage is the leading offender when it comes to property damage and water restoration needs.

Believe it or not, this actually surprises most people, because when they hear water damage they usually imagine a flood from a nearby river, storm surge from the ocean, or a natural disaster. And, while events as such as those do occur, there are more common ways for water damage to affect your home, and these include:

• Toilet overflows
• Appliance leaks from your refrigerator, washing machine, ice machine, etc.
• Baths, shower and sink overflows or left running without attendance
• Broken/leaky water pipes behind the walls and ceilings
• Drainage issues around the property
• Roof leaks and compromised exterior
• Damage from rain, wind and storms

As you can see, water damage can originate from either external or internal sources and once it gets into your home it is important to know what kind of water you are dealing with. What do we mean by, what kind of water?

At SERVPRO, we recognize water in THREE different categories:

CATEGORY 1 –  We also refer to this as “Clean Water,” means the water originated from a sanitary source and generally will not pose a risk to our health.

CATEGORY 2  – We also refer to this as “Grey Water,” means the water contains some contamination and is not sanitary enough for human consumption and that poses a health risk if ingested.

CATEGORY 3 – Also referred to us in the industry as “Black Water,” is the type of water that is completely contaminated and could contain disease-causing organisms, and other harmful materials.

Now you know the three categories of water and how it can enter into your home. Each are different categories of water damage, and each comes with their own do's and don'ts on how to handle them. Restoration professionals like SERVPRO Bath have advanced training and expertise, and a large amount of hands-on experience to handle any water damage emergency.

So if you need help, call us today!

Strategic Placement of Air Movers to Dry Flood Damage throughout your home.

2/9/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO help limit the losses in your home after a flood damage.

Large residences can suffer without explanation from flooding situations. As weather alerts reach their peak, this period of winter poses a threat of flash flooding. Flash floods can travel up to nine feet per second, picking up gravel, rocks and mud. The sheer force of rushing water can break through windows and doors, quickly flooding lower levels of homes leaving homeowners powerless. You may not be able to stop floodwaters, but you can limit the losses caused by them by bringing in professionals.

Emergency services for flood damage are available the Washington and Bath areas all year round. The emergency aspect of water restoration depends on removing water quickly so as to mitigate losses. The role of a restorer does not stop at removing standing water. Wet property is just as likely to suffer damages as flooded properties. SERVPRO’s qualified technicians ensure the drying procedure is as effective at mitigating losses as the removal procedure is at stopping immediate concerns.

When floors are wet, it raises the humidity levels as the moisture evaporates. As water evaporates, it can create a boundary layer of air that inhibits further evaporation. To combat this, SERVPRO of Bath technicians use air movers to keep air circulating and replace humid boundary layers with dryer sheets. This plays a significant role in the length of time it takes to restore your property to preloss condition.

SERVPRO technicians may use as many as twenty air-movers to promote constant airflow. Air movers use centrifugal motion to move large volumes of air and use a daisy chain fitting to ensure multiple units can be set up in a room with just one power cord. This type of placement of air movers ensures that it’s possible to circulate air from one or two open points of outdoor air. If security is a concern, air movers are positioned in a closed-circuit system which uses dehumidifiers to provide dry air.

Drying flooded property can reduce claims and secondary losses. Contact SERVPRO of Bath if you’ve suffered flood damage today.

Storm Damage or Flood Damage, which do you have?

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Over the last couple years eastern North Carolina has experience both, but how do you know which applies to your property?

The greatest distinction between flood and storm damage is that flood waters generally over spills a natural body or water and covers at least two acres of land that would typically be dry land and storm waters come from above.

In order for water damage to be considered flood damage, it must cover two acres but also has affect at least two properties. Flooding occurs when water overflows a body of water such as:

• Creeks or Rivers
• Dams
• Storm-water channels
• Ponds and Lakes

Damage caused by either flooding or storms can cause severe problems for home and property owners. You should try to plan for, prevent and handle these as soon as they occur. Damage to your property due to storm damage typically originates from causes such as:

• Heavy rain
• High winds
• Hurricanes
• Heavy snow and blizzards
• Tornadoes

Most insurance policies do provide protection from storm damage. However, you will need additional insurance to cover the expenses of flood damage. If own property located in a flood plain, you need to make sure you carry the necessary insurance policy to ensure you have protected your investment.

Remember this, regardless of the source of moisture, the risk of mold damage and any secondary damage caused within your home, that comes from not taking action quickly, can be just as severe.

SERVPRO of Bath is here to help. Give us a call 24/7 at 252-537-3473

Prevent Frozen Pipes this Winter

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

It’s the time of year we go from Fall to Winter with what feels like a matter of days. North Carolina weather knows how to go from 50 degrees, one day to 20 degrees the next. Weather like this sometimes leaves us waking up to frozen pipes which are a headache to deal with, especially if they bust causes water damage. Here are some helpful tips to prevent your pipes from freezing or busting:

- Open your kitchen and bathroom cabinets. You want the warm air in your house to circulate around the plumbing. This helps keep your pipes a tad bit warmer. If you have children, put away all the harmful cleaners or chemicals that you store in these cabinets.

- Let the water drip from a faucet. You may think it will make your water bill super high, but just a trickle won’t sky rocket the bill and the constant flowing of the water will help prevent frozen pipes.

- Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both day and night. Trying to set it back in hopes to save a little money on heating could potentially let your pipes get cold enough they freeze.

- Insulate your pipes! Most Hardware stores sell pipe insulation for as little as 50 cents per linear foot.

We all want to avoid frozen pipes this winter, but Incase your pipes do freeze, NEVER use an open flame device to thaw them out. Instead, use an electric heating pad or towels soaked in hot water and wrap them around the frozen pipe! If by chance your pipes do burst, causing water damage, call SERVPRO of Bath, we would be more than happy to help fix whatever the water damaged has caused.

Timeline of Water Damage

11/20/2019 (Permalink)

Within the first hour:

• If water is moving at a quick pace it will spread throughout the dwelling, finding the path of least resistance, saturating everything in its path.
• Paper goods such as artwork, books, and magazines may become unsalvageable due to saturation.
• Stains/finish released from furniture could cause permanent staining on flooring and carpets.
• Finishers on moisture sensitive furniture may begin to turn white.

One to Twenty-Four Hours:

• Normal household odors will begin to intensify.
• Drywall swells and begins to breakdown.
• Laminated furniture begins to swell and split, and finish can begin to crack.
• Musty/sour odors become apparent.
• Metal surfaces that are unprotected begin to sully.
• Dyes/ink from textiles and paper goods begin to seep and spread causing staining.

Forty-Eight Hours to One Week:

• Unprotected metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Mold, mildew, and other contaminants have begun to grow and spread.
• Windows, doors, casings, and studs begin to swell and warp.
• Furniture warps and begins to show signs of mold.
• Adhesives begin to breakdown and release.
• Wood flooring begins to swell, warp, or buckle.
• Persons with respiratory concerns or compromised immune systems could experience distress or heightened sensitivity to allergens from microbial growth.  

    More than One Week:                               

• Structural safety and health concerns may pose serious hazards to residents, other living arrangements may be needed until reconstruction is complete.
• Claim cost and renovation increases due to vast restoration

Refrigerators and Water Damage

11/15/2019 (Permalink)

Most of the time when we have water damage, we don’t know until long after damage has already been done, especially when it comes to a leaky refrigerator. Since the fridge blocks our vision of the wall and floor behind it, we don’t notice it has a leak unless it creates a puddle visible to us. Refrigerator damage doesn’t always happen abruptly, it usually happens over time due to a crack in the plastic water line, ice maker leaks, and condensation. If you notice water by your fridge and the water has only recently been there, then moping it up and letting it dry, should avert any real damage. Make sure that the walls are dry as well, this will help with mold growth. If your fridge has caused water damage over a long period of time, you’ll more than likely need your flooring and wall replaced. This is where SERVPRO of Bath can help! If you want to prevent any possibilities of this happening to you, you should regularly check and maintain your fridge. You’ll want to clear away the debris and dust from behind, then check for hard water build up in the water line. It is also suggested purchasing a battery-operated water alarm. If the alarm contacts water, it will set it off, letting you know you have a leak of some sort. This helps with permanent damage due to water sitting for too long.

Reasons to use a Professional

4/30/2018 (Permalink)

Recent flooding to our area causes havoc. Call SERVPRO of Bath to help with the clean up.

After a water disaster strikes your home, it can be hard to imagine your home repaired back to its original condition.

Here at SERVPRO of Bath we want to let you know that there is hope! We understand that water damage can wreak havoc on a home or business. Whether the damage is due to flooding, a pipe bursting or an appliance running incorrectly, the result is remediation. 

Proper and prompt remediation is needed before the water causes damage and mold begins to form.

Wood floors and cabinets may have to be removed if they water has penetrated and caused cupping or deterioration.

Once the damage has occurred, the fastest way to remove excess water is to rely upon the services of a local restoration company like SERVPRO.  Our goal is to be on site in 4 hours to prompt remediation can occur. 

The faster you call to have your emergency handled, the better the outcome will be.  Every minute/hour that goes by is more time in which your home is potentially “out of commission”. When SERVPRO is there is quickly we can help mitigate the loses and get you back into a safe home environment.

Once you contact us, we can begin a full program of restoration.

First, an immediate inspection and assessment of the damage and adjacent areas and then an estimate of the costs involved recovery are given to you. If you agree to the service, the professionals will then extract all of the remaining water in the building, checking especially for voids where water can go without being detected in most cleanup efforts. Our trained staff can make sure the building is completely dry.  The use of moisture meters, infrared cameras and hygrometers enhance our ability to guarantee dryness. When all of the excess water and any mold growth has been taken care of our professionals will clean and restore any furniture or other implements that water has damaged. A full check will be performed to make sure your building has not sustained any structural damage.

When you need prompt and efficient service for water damage, SERVPRO of Bath is here for you.

Call us at 252-923-0213

Water Damage in your home, what to do next?

4/27/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bath when you have Water Damage to your home or business.

Water damage is the #1 reason homeowners file a file a claim with their insurance company.  Damage from water can happen very quickly.  Water follows the path of least resistance, saturating everything in its path.  It is important to know what you as a homeowner can do to help to prevent further damage from occurring.

Many times water damage in a home is the result of an accident within the home and not weather related.  Whether it is a burst water line connected to an appliance, a bathtub overflowing, water heater overflow, or a washing machine that is malfunctioning, the most important thing to remember is to call a professional.   Let us be your advocate with your insurance company. 

Many times insurance adjusters have a backlog, and they may not be able to get to your home for a few days. We can be eyes and ears for your adjuster to let him know the extent of your loss, and we can proceed with drying out your home until he or she can arrive.  With our experience with many insurance companies, we will know most times what will be a covered loss by your insurance company.

If you do not have insurance, we will also be there to help to dry out your home and help find ways to reconstruct as affordably as possible. 

At SERVPRO of Bath it is always our goal to put our customers worries at ease.  When you make contact with our office, you will always speak to someone local that knows this business inside and out.  We will ask a variety of questions including: what type of flooring you have in your home, what the square footage is, and what areas are affected.  This allows our team to arrive promptly and ready to handle whatever disaster you are facing.  If you are planning on filing a claim with your homeowners insurance, we can help guide you through the process and deal with your insurance adjuster directly.  At SERVPRO of Bath we are a preferred vendor for many local and national insurance companies.

After calling us at SERVPRO of Bath use the guide below to minimize the damage to your home and belongings.

DO-

• Shut off the source of water if at all possible or contact a qualified person to stop the water.(city water department, plumber)
• If water has affected anything electrical, turn off the power to the affected area at the breaker box if it is safe to do so.
• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water off of wood furniture after removing table top items.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and flooring.
• Remove any paintings, documents, computers or any other materials that are valuable or sensitive and store them in an unaffected, dry area of the house.
• Hang curtains and/or draperies off of the floor.
• Take and furs and/or leather items to a separate dry space at room temperature.

DON’T-

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches or any other electrical equipment has been exposed to water.
• Leave books, magazines, newspapers or any other colored items on wet flooring and/or furniture to prevent staining.
• Leave wet Oriental rugs or any rug, on a carpeted surface to prevent staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water.
• Use TVs or any other appliance while sitting in wet material.
• Enter rooms or turn on light fixtures in a room where the ceiling is wet or sagging from retained water.
• Wait to call our team. The longer you wait to call, the more secondary damage is occurring. 

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

4/16/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Bath with any water damage. We are here to help!

SERVPRO of Bath 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 -

252-923-0213

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 Bath 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. 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)?

Our goal is to be on site within 4 hours of your emergency day or night and have a preliminary estimate to your adjuster in 8 hours.  

We hope you will consider SERVPRO of Bath as we are unlimited licensed builders with over 60 years combined experience.  We are very familiar with the challenges of weather in Eastern NC whether it be a storm, flood, or mold.  Give us a call at 

252-923-0213

Be wary of frozen pipes

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

The winter weather has been different this time around for North Carolina residents.  With it comes a few joys of children playing in the snow and having days off school.  However, there are still plenty of dangers to look out for. Among these dangers are frozen pipes. Running water in your home can easily be taken for granted.  When the water doesn’t seem to want to run through your faucets, it can leave a bigger impact on your personal home and place of business.

Pipes that are most likely to freeze are those that are the outdoor lines.  These lines can be for something as simple as your sprinkler system.  To avoid pipes from freezing or bursting here are a few tips:

• Drain water from outdoor pipes before the cold weather arrives in your area
• Monitor your pipes in your kitchen and bathrooms by leaving cabinet doors open to let warmer air circulate.
• Add additional insulation around pipes
• Keeping your home at a consistent warm temperature 24/7