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Fire & Water - Cleanup & Restoration

Archived Water Damage Blog Posts

Be Prepared For Spring Rain!

2/20/2024 (Permalink)

Storms are devastating, and storm season can be a very stressful time of year. It is important to be prepared. You may not think it is necessary, but even in Ohio we still experience, hind wind, lighting, and an abundance of rain. These things can cause damage. Excessive rain leads to unwanted water build up, flooding, and much more. Winds can knock down branches, and cause damage to your roof, windows etc. These storms lead to power outages that can last several days. Make sure you have plenty of water stored, and an alternative source of power if possible, and of course and abundance of flashlights, and candles. Being prepared and staying calm is key during this time of year. Just know we are always here to help!

What To Do After a Spring Storm in Zanesville

4/26/2023 (Permalink)

Storm damage can occur at any time and can cause an immense amount of harm to your home. Heavy rains can cause flooding and powerful winds can cause roof damage and downed trees on your property. Some post-storm damage can create safety and health hazards as well, so having a strategy to deal with damage will help you to be ready to take steps immediately after the storm.

Take Safety Precautions

Heavy winds and rain can create physical hazards such as collapsed roofing materials, window damage, collapsed walls or standing water in the basement or home interior. In addition, moisture can soak into furniture, carpeting, and building materials making the perfect environment for mold growth that can cause health effects. Shut off the main gas line if you smell gas. Beware of broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp objects on the property. Contact SERVPRO at 740-844-0977 to help do basic tasks to secure your property and make it safe to use. If necessary, arrange for an alternative place for you and your family to live while your property is being restored to safe living condition.

Photograph the Damage

If it is safe to move around your property, use your cellphone or a camera to photograph the damage so that you will have a record for your insurance company. This action will ensure that you are fully compensated.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance agent to notify them about the damage to your home immediately. The company will send out an adjuster to determine the extent of the damage so that payment for repairs can be made.

Do You Have Moisture In Your House?

2/8/2023 (Permalink)

Here at SERVPRO Zanesville/Cambridge we take pride in having a professional work place filled with trained technicians. When water damage occurs it saturates your floors, walls, and contents leaving excess moisture even after the source of the water has been fixed. In order to make sure your contents are fully dry and not sustainable to mold, and further damage due to moisture we have to monitor the moisture levels in your home. On surfaces such as wood you want to make sure the levels remain at at 15% saturation level or less. Other materials such as drywall, and concrete may require a lower or higher reading in order to pass our Dry Book standards. No matter the material or surface SERVPRO can get in there, and dry it fast and efficiently with ease.

How We Handle Water Damage in Cambridge

12/22/2022 (Permalink)

When our technicians are called to a water damage job they know what to expect. We bring all the equipment necessary to get the job done. We first go in and assess the situation. Usually we already have what we need on board. If there is standing water we extract it. Then of course we spray a anti-microbial to prevent mold growth. After this is done thee drying process begins. We set up our drying equipment which consists of air movers, and dehumidifiers. We then go in daily, and monitor the drying progress. We shortly know if a material is going to be able to be restored of if it will need replaced. Our fast system, and excellent techs save both you and you insurance company money by getting the job done fast!

Do You Have Water In Your Basement?

6/6/2022 (Permalink)

A lot of homeowners choose to use their basements as extra living space. Often laying down carpet, putting up dry way and adding plumbing. Having the extra space is amazing, but there are some downfalls. basements often hold excess moisture. This is due to them being underground, and or the foundation shifting. A little bit of moisture can be controlled with dehumidifiers, and routine checks. This will usually keep moisture at a level that will not do much damage or allow mold growth. If you have a storm it is always a good idea to check and make sure excess water is not getting into your home, if it is make sure to contact a professional to try and resolve the situation. If damage occurs and your home does get wet, of course we can always help!

Preventing Water Damage From Frozen Pipes

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

Temperatures have reached way below freezing already this year. During this kind of weather it is very important to prepare your home for the harsh weather.

  • Make sure your pipes are insulated. You can even buy heat tape to wrap your exposed pipes in at your local hardware store.
  • It is also a good idea to leave your cold water dripping in the night, and when you will not be frequently using water. This keeps movement in your line and helps to prevent freezing.

When water freezes it expands. When this happens in an enclosed area. Such as a pipe. It can cause severe damage. Your pipes can burst under the pressure and leave your home soaked. Winter is one of our busiest times of year, and frozen pipes are the leading cause of water damage in the winter. So stay warm, and stay dry this winter and if you happen to have a water damage give SERVPRO of Zanesville/Cambridge a call at (740) 844-0977.

We can handle water damage!

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

Sometimes after experiencing unwanted water in your home moisture likes to hide. It hides in places like your ceilings, walls, and floors. Without the proper equipment to dry these areas, you can experience things like mold, rot, and discoloration. Luckily, here at SERVPRO Zanesville/Cambridge we have the equipment to get the job done. Our Injectidry Drying system allows our technicians to get in there, and make sure all those hiding spots are dried out properly. This machine dries by injecting air between stud cavities, or removing moist air with negative pressure. This will dry up unwanted moisture, and greatly reduce the chance of problems in the future due to the water build up you experienced. We are always here to help, and prepared to get the job done. Our techs will find the problem, and fix it.

How We Handle Water Damage in Zanesville

12/28/2021 (Permalink)

When a water loss occurs it usually effects more than one are of your home. Unfortunately, you can't always tell what has been affected by just looking or feeling for the moisture. Our technicians have equipment that can detect exactly how much moisture is left behind in your home, and how much air pressure and de-humidification we will need to get your home to preloss condition. On surfaces such as wood you want to make sure the levels remain at at 15% saturation or less. Other materials such as drywall, and concrete may require a lower or higher reading in order to pass our Dry Book standards. No matter the material or surface SERVPRO can get in there dry it fast, efficiently, and with ease.

Understanding Water Categories

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

When you experience a water loss it is important to stay out of the affected area as much as possible until you know what it is you are dealing with. There are typically three different categories of water damage.

Category 1

  • Came from clean inside water source
  • Did not travel through debris or dirt
  • Is clear

Category 2

  • Came from outside or has traveled through unsanitary environment (Flood, drain water)
  • Water is clear or slightly cloudy could have visible debris in it
  • Water has sat for prolonged period of time

Category 3

  • Water came from sewer or another waste water source
  • Water is grey or black
  • Usually has strong odor

it is important to know the category because that determines the type of precautions that have to be taken. Everything from the PPE safety equipment that needs worn to the cleaning techniques that need to be used. If you are not sure what type of loss you have or even if you do. Give us a call and we will get you dried up and taken care of!

Know About Water Damage In Cambridge

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Water loss is one of our main services we provide. Often times we come into homes that have experienced water damage and it is way worse than it should have been. That is why it is important to always be prepared.

  • Check your plumbing regularly for leaks, and clogs.
  • Make sure your appliances are properly connected at their water lines.
  • Do routine checks in "moist' areas such as your basement.
  • If you see moisture. GET IT DRY!

The excess moisture not only leads to damaged homes, but also can cause mold. A typical water loss can cost the home owner anywhere between $1500 and $5000 depending on the size of the affected area and how much can be restored as to replaced. The faster you catch a problem. The less damage you will have. Just always be aware because water can end up in anyone's home!

Leave the job to us at SERVPRO of Zanesville/Cambridge

12/22/2020 (Permalink)

When you experience a water loss it may be your first instinct to try and clean the area yourself.  Although, you may be able to clean up the standing water. It takes special equipment like dehumidifiers, air movers, and moisture monitors to properly dry your walls, floors, and other surfaces. If you do not properly dry these. It can lead to bowed or swollen walls, floors and ceilings. It can also lead to a mold infestation. These are all things that can be avoided if the proper procedure is followed. That is why we offer free estimates. We can come in asses the situation, and let you know what we would do. That way you are still involved and aware of the services we are performing. No secrets at SERVPRO. We are just here to help!

Do You Have Re-occurring Moisture?

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

Moisture likes to hide. It hides in places like your ceilings, walls, and floors. Without the proper equipment to dry these areas, you can experience things like mold, rot, and discoloration. Luckily, here at SERVPRO of Zanesville/Cambridge we have the equipment to get the job done. Our Injectidry Drying system allows our technicians to get in there, and make sure all those hiding spots are dried out properly. The technicians would poke holes into the hard to dry areas in unnoticeable spots. Places such as behind baseboards. This machine dries those areas by injecting air between stud cavities, or removing moist air with negative pressure. This will dry up unwanted moisture, and greatly reduce the chance of problems in the future due to the water build up you experienced. We are always here to help, and prepared to get the job done. Our techs will find the problem, and fix it.

How to spot water damage in your home

2/25/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage to a home is a much more serious problem than many people realize. Aside from the obvious property damage, water damage can lead to a myriad of health issues including allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory issues.

Fortunately, there are ways you can spot water damage in your home. It goes without saying that not all damage is going to be visible. Water can leak in hidden places like the inside of the walls which you’ll likely not notice unless and until some severe damage has been done. This is why you need to do some up close inspection to detect damage. Spotting the problem areas early on will certainly help you ward off future issues that can prove costly.

With that in mind, here are some of the most common indications of damage that may enable you to determine if water is leaking in your home.

1) Water Stains

An obvious, telltale sign of water damage! Stains or slight color discolorations that appear on the wall, floor or ceiling without any apparent reason are most likely an undetected water leak in your roof or walls. While inspecting the surface of your walls/ceilings may be an obvious step, be sure to take a close look at the corners where the walls meet the ceiling, floors and each other for discoloration as well.

2) Humidity and Dampness

Unexplained humidity or dampness in your home can be a sign of an undetected water leak. Check for wet surfaces (such as counters and walls) where water shouldn’t be accumulating. Oftentimes, a leak nearby is the culprit.

3) Mold

Mold can be found anywhere moisture and oxygen are present. Unless it’s simply a case of finding a small amount on your shower curtain liner, mold in your home is a serious problem. A mold problem is usually indicative of one or both of two things: humidity issues or a water leak. In cases of mold, unless the source of the excess water is apparent, a professional is necessary.

4) Strange Noises/Dripping

While the sound of water dripping is obvious, leaking water can sometimes take on deceptive sounds in a home. Listen closely when the house is at its quietest moments (night time when the traffic outside is at a minimum and most people are sleeping). Water leaks can sometimes be identified by a scratching or rushing noise not necessarily associated in our minds with water.

5) Soft Spots or Paint Damage

Paint and wood are often the first to show signs of water damage in a home. Warped floorboards or peeling paint is often a reliable sign of water damage.

What to do when your house floods

12/19/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you evacuate or stay in your house during a flood event, you may not be sure what to do about standing water. Primary and secondary damage will intensify the longer water lingers in a residence. Within a matter of days, building materials may begin to corrode or rot and mold growth will become likely. These four steps will walk you through the flood damage mitigation, cleanup and restoration process starting with a call for house flooding help at the first indication of water damage.

1. Contact SERVPRO of Zanesville/Cambridge

As soon as you see signs of flooding, call SERVPRO of Zanesville/Cambridge. A certified technician will call you back to set up an appointment and connect you with nearby professionals who specialize in restoring flood damage. Flood water is contaminated and may result in more severe property damage than other types of water damage. The extent of damage will depend on how many floors of a residence are inundated.

2. Arrange for Mitigation

Mitigation describes any measures taken to limit the severity of primary and secondary damage after a flood event. Pumping out standing water is the most crucial mitigation measure that must be taken as soon as possible following a flood. Experts may recommend using different types of pumps depending on which levels of a home have flooded. 

It may take longer to pump water out of a flooded basement as it is necessary for pressure on the inside and outside walls to equalize to avoid causing structural damage. Professionals will strive to strike a balance between the need to eliminate standing water as soon as possible and preserve integrity. A combination of training and on-the-job experience makes professional house flooding help invaluable during the initial stage of flood recovery.

3. Have Your Home Cleaned and Disinfected

Restoration professionals usually classify the effects of flood water on property as highly contaminated Category Three water damage. You should expect to have hard surfaces in your home treated with disinfectant. Porous building materials and contents may require specialized treatments or replacement. Even after water is pumped out, damage may continue to intensify until cleaning and disinfection are complete and drying is underway.

4. Rebuild and Restore

When the area inundated by flood water is completely dry, rebuilding and restoration can take place. Irreparably ruined materials may require replacement, surfaces may need to be refinished and mold remediation may be necessary — all of which can total thousands of dollars. Rebuilding from a flood may also involve the installation of flood prevention equipment such as flood vents in the foundation, a sump pump, back-flow prevention valve or overhead drain. An investment in preventing future flooding may limit structural damage risks for a residence located in a flood zone.

You should be aware that most homeowners insurance policies exclude flood damage. A separate flood insurance policy or endorsements or riders for mold may be necessary to cover costs. It may be possible to limit the amount of a flood insurance claim or the sum you must pay out of pocket by hiring experienced professionals rather than attempting to clean up flood damage on your own. Hiring experts may cost more up-front, but having all of the damage caused by flood water cleaned and dried can help you avoid costly continued structural damage or mold problems. 

If you have any questions regarding flooding of your home, call SERVPRO of Zanesville/Cambridge at (740) 844-0977.

How to Winterize Your Home

11/18/2019 (Permalink)

Are you a snowbird?If you are going away for the winter always make sure to winterize your home. This will protect your home from bursting pipes, and unwanted water damage while you are away catching some sun. The last thing that you want to come home to is a wet home. Here are few quick steps to get your house winter ready.

  • Shut off main water line
  • Shut off water heated at the electrical box
  • Flush out all excess water in your pipes
  • Pour antifreeze in all your sink traps
  • Make sure to tape off and post that sinks and toilet are not accessible

Doing these few simple things can save you thousands in damage. If you need assistance. Give us a call. Always here to help. Enjoy the holidays, and stay warm! 

Water, Always Expect it.

6/5/2018 (Permalink)

Most of the time when a water damage occurs a home owner discovers it immediately or after just a short while. These are usually losses that involve a lot of unwanted water in a short amount of time. That is not always the case though. Often times things such as AC units, hot water heaters, and downstairs restrooms develop a small leak that goes unnoticed. Minimal amounts of water escape and soak into your contents, walls and flooring. Not showing surface moisture, but still doing damage to your home. These go undiscovered sometimes until the homeowner notices their floors or walls molding or even rotting out. By this time the damage is usually significant. That is why it is important to check all appliances and crawl spaces routinely for leaks and unwanted moisture. You want to pay attention to any wet or stained surfaces, mold, and off putting odors. These could be signs of excess water somewhere in your home. If you do need assistance. Do not hesitate to call.

Ohhh the Smell!

5/17/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage happens when you lest expect it. Sometimes it is a gradual leak or excess moisture that goes unnoticed. It could be a drippy pipe or a backed up drain in the basement you barely ever enter. A lot of the time our customers do not know a water damage has occurred until other signs are present. Things such as musty odors or discoloration of your contents, floors, or ceilings. By this time you might think it is too late to save those things, but that is not always the case. SERVPRO can come in  clean, and dry your contents, carpets, walls and ceilings with special solutions, and antimicrobial. This will often times bring your home to its preloss condition. Getting rid of the stains and odors caused by the unexpected leak. To prevent this do routine smell, and moisture checks of your home often. Make sure you do not see any water stains or smell and musty odors. This will limit the chance of unseen water and save you time, and money!

Water Damage In Zanesville?

3/22/2018 (Permalink)

Ohio weather in general is unpredictable, but the Zanesville/Cambridge area has definitely been off the charts this year. From incredibly cold weather, to the non-stop rain. Mother nature has kept homeowners on their toes. Unfortunately, we can't prevent or control the weather. What we can do is prepare. Make sure your pipes are wrapped, your furnace is working, and all your drains are clear. This can greatly reduce the chance of water damaging your home. It is also important not to DE-winterize your home too early. We had a few nice days. Do not let it trick you. This year after a few warm days. The first day of spring brought a snow storm along for the ride. Hang in there all. Warm weather really is just around the corner. If mother nature does decide to bring in the unexpected. We are always here to help.

Winter is on the Way!

11/3/2017 (Permalink)

Halloween is over, and the cold is starting to set in. So far it seems like we didn't get much of a fall this year. The leaves are still mostly green in my area, and we have already seen our first snow of the year. With the cold weather fast approaching it is important to make sure your home is weatherized. Especially your plumbing, and pipes. If not properly insulated water can freeze inside of them and bust. This leaves you without water, and a mess. 

Here are a few easy ways to prevent frozen pipes this winter.

  • Keep a trickle of cold water running through your pipes at night. This will help keep water flowing and prevent it from freezing. 
  • Keep your thermostat at the same temperature day and night.
  • Wrap exposed pipes with heat tape.
  • Always remember if all else fails. We can help!

Water It Can Happen to ANYONE!

10/9/2017 (Permalink)

We recently were on a water job, were the upstairs toilet line had sprung a leak. The client caught it within an hour, and still experienced detrimental damage to their home. Their home was completely up to date, and beautiful. All appliances, and plumbing had just been gone over. They hadn't had any kind of incident the whole 45 years they had been married. These customers knew how to keep up a home, and still experienced water damage due to a tiny fault in the line. Disasters do not discriminate, and no matter how prepared you feel you are it can happen. This couple being as on top of things as they were had already removed their contents, and placed dehumidifiers before we were even notified. This greatly reduced the damage that could have occurred. Luckily everything was covered, and saved because they were ready, for the unexpected.

How we Handle Water

9/25/2017 (Permalink)

When our technicians are called to a water damage job they know what to expect. We bring all the equipment necessary to get the job done. We first go in and assess the situation. Usually we already have what we need on board. If there is standing water we extract it. Then of course we spray a anti-microbial to prevent mold growth. After this is done thee drying process begins. We set up our drying equipment which consists of air movers, and dehumidifiers. We then go in daily, and monitor the drying progress. We shortly know if a material is going to be able to be restored of if it will need replaced. Our fast system, and excellent techs save both you and you insurance company money by getting the job done fast!

Water is not OK!

9/11/2017 (Permalink)

When you experience water backup, whether it be from a burst pipe,storm drain, or broken sump pump it is never good. It leaves your home a soppy mess, and can cause permanent damage if not dealt with promptly by professionals. Many home owners will often try to clean these messes up themselves. Although, you may be able to clean up the standing water. It takes special equipment like dehumidifiers, air movers, and moisture monitors to properly dry your walls, floors, and other surfaces. If you do not properly dry these. It can lead to bowed or swollen walls,floors and ceilings. It can also lead to a mold infestation. that is why we offer free estimates. We can come in asses the situation, and let you know what we would do. Here at SERVPRO Zanesville/Cambridge we are very honest, and would never perform unnecessary tasks. So when you call us be confident you will always get an honest answer!

Here to help

4/20/2016 (Permalink)

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 Zanesville/Cambridge has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of SERVPRO of Zanesville/Cambridge

SERVPRO of SERVPRO of Zanesville/Cambridge specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.