You Might Not See All The Damage That Water Makes

9/5/2023 (Permalink)

Hidden water damage found in Davie, Fl. home

WATER TRAVELED TO THE LOWEST POINT IN A ROOM

Water intrusion in this Davie home could have been a serious issue for this homeowner. 

Did you know that water travels to the lowest point in a room?  Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, drapes, and more. Evidence of water damage could be invisible to your naked eye. SERVPRO has the proper equipment to detect moisture hiding in unsuspecting places.

Two important things to remember, one, don't let water damage linger, and two, know that DIY (Do it yourself) attempts fall short. Prompt cleanup, extraction, and restoration are crucial. 

Our Davie homeowner had no idea of how extensive the damage was in this home until cleaning began.  Immediate response from our technicians helped minimize the damage and cleaning and restoration costs. 

If you experience a water loss, let us help you in your time of need. We can be reached at 954-741-4321 or 954-725-6400 

Knowing the most common causes of water damage in a home is the best first step in prevention.

9/16/2022 (Permalink)

Cooper City homeowner had a water leak in pipes behind the toilet in the bathroom.

Homeowners in East Davie and Cooper City understand that there are certain inevitable unforeseen costs involved in owning and maintaining your largest asset, your home.  Things break and need repairs, time wears on various parts of the home, and so on and so forth. Water damage, however, is one of those typical house issues that no one wants to deal with. From costly repairs to the headache of restoration, avoiding water damage is of course preferable.

Knowing the most common causes of water damage in a home is the best first step in prevention. If you are aware of what to look out for, you may be able to spot a potential issue before it becomes a big problem. Although some water damage is unavoidable, a lot stems from issues of improper maintenance or doing no maintenance at all. 

Being on the lookout and noticing water damage early saves you money in repair costs. 

Some of the most common things a homeowner can look out for are: 

1. Sewer lines are backed up
2. Pipes are leaking
3. Heavy rains
4. Toilet leaks
5. Issues with gutters
6. Faulty or malfunctioning appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, sinks, and washing machines
7. Problems with HVAC
8. Built up pressure in supply lines of washing machines
9. Water buildup in crawl space
10. Roof leaks

It's important to check the list above for water damage areas of concern. Knowing what to look for means being proactive in prevention and maintaining your home. If you do spot water damage in your home we are here for you. Don't wait to mitigate. 

954-741-4321 or 954-725-6400

Minutes Feel Like Hours When You Have Water Damage In Your Home

7/25/2022 (Permalink)

Intense rainfall caused havoc in Cooper City's homes and streets.

Anyone who lives or works in Cooper City or East Davie is familiar with water damage.  Water damage can occur from an intense rain storm, hurricane, or a broken pipe under your kitchen sink. 

Before inside flooding from the water or storm damage causes property destruction, call the experts at SERVPRO^® of East Davie/Cooper City at 954-741-4321 at any hour of the day.  

NO BLACKOUT DAYS 

Weekends and holidays aren’t blackout days for disasters, so SERVPRO is always available for emergency service.

FAST RESPONSE

Minutes feel like hours in an emergency, this is why we are faster to any size of the disaster.

TRAINED TECHS

The technicians who work for SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City have thorough training and hands-on experience in water extraction, drying, cleaning & disinfection, and restoration. 

Having strangers in one’s home can also be stressful. The technicians at SERVPRO are licensed, bonded, and insured. Residents and business owners can trust that the technicians will treat the properties and contents with care and respect.

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City can be reached at 954-725-6400 or 954-741-4321. We are Independently Owned and Operated.

Check Your Roof After A Significant Rain Event

5/9/2022 (Permalink)

Your home's main line of defense is your roof, so check it out before and after rainstorms.

After a significant rain event, it's a good idea to inspect your roof for damage.  Your home's main line of defense is your roof, and in East Davie/Cooper City it takes a beating.

Pay attention to things like dings in your gutters or tears in your window screens, which indicate hail damage. You may see missing tiles or other signs of roof damage from the ground, but most leaks don't represent a need for whole roof replacement. Usually, the leak is coming from something requiring minor roof repair. Find the source of the leak, stop it, and clean any water damage. 

Find the Source of the Leak 

Look for stains that indicate the source of a leak and the area that needs roof repair. You may see water stains on your ceiling or coming down a wall. When you see that, get your flashlight and head to that area. 

Here are five familiar sources for a roof leak:

1. Vents and fans
2. Chimneys
3. Window dormers
4. Vent pipes
5. Unsecured nails and nail holes

To complete your roof repair:

1. Start looking for materials damaged by water.
2. Check for discolorations and rotting wood and wet drywall and insulation.
3. When you find mold, remain careful and don't spread it during cleanup.

SERVPRO of EastDavie/Cooper City are specialists in water and mold remediation. Our trained technicians create a containment area while working on water and mold damage. Mold can begin growing on wet damaged materials in as little as 48 hours. Drying is critical to preventing mold, so don't procrastinate, or try to clean up the water damage yourself.  Call the professionals at 954-741-4321 or 954-725-6400

How We Find Water Damage That You Can't See

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

Using a thermal detection device can accurately show the presence of water and how far the water traveled.

Part of SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City's success in restoring water-damaged homes depends on knowing exactly where to find moisture beyond the naked eye can see.

Moisture detection and discovery devices were a critical component of the work that we did in a Davie home. Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time.

The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. Our SERVPRO technicians have the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur.

Here are a few of the tools used by SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City Professionals.

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards and walls.
• Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings.
• Thermalhygrometers measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, SERVPRO Professionals can calculate and create an environment most conducive to drying. When facing a contaminated water loss, it is not only important to dry the structure, but the structure must also be disinfected and often deodorized.
• Ultra-Low-Volume (ULV) Foggers will atomize liquid deodorizing agents, producing a fine mist that can easily penetrate the site where odor-causing residues may accumulate. This device can also be used to inject fungicides and disinfectants into wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.
• Thermal Foggers dispense solvent-based products by creating a dense fog. The fog consists of tiny particles of deodorant solution that attach to and neutralize odor-causing particles.

The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense from a water loss.  Thermal imagery helps reduce unnecessary penetration of a wall, especially when exposed materials might be costly to remove or to be replaced. This saves our customers money and time.  

SERVPRO East Davie/Cooper City has professionally trained techs that use the proper equipment to find the water that you cannot see.  Call 954-725-6400 -- 954-741-4321

Who Do I Call First When I Have a Water Loss During a Holiday?

4/5/2022 (Permalink)

As homeowners of East Davie/Cooper City are preparing for Passover and Easter, they should also be prepared with SERVPRO's phone number.

First, SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City wishes all of our "peeps" a happy Passover and Easter. 

Remember Murphy's Law? "If there is a possibility of several things going wrong, the one that will go wrong, is the one that will cause the most damage". During holiday times, especially when you're entertaining guests, homeowners are confused about who to call first when they are experiencing a water leak.

I've written blogs in the past, but it never hurts to have a reminder! We want to remind you that we're the number to call when your home or business is affected by flooding from storm damage. 

Go ahead and add us to your contact list as SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City at 954-741-4321 or 954-725-6400. Now... what do you do when your home has been affected?

First, you'll call your insurance agent. 

Second, be careful entering your home. Water damage can damage the structure of your home (sometimes beyond what the eyes can see) and we want to make sure that you are safe. 

Third, document everything. Take photos on your cell phone of everything that is going on.

Fourth, don't use any appliances in the affected areas. It helps to keep the power turned off to those areas of your home until an inspection can be done to ensure it is safe first. 

Last but not least, give us a call and we'll be there to help!

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is locally owned and operated, so we’re already close by and ready to respond immediately when you need us. We make a disaster "Like it never even happened." 954-741-4321 or 954-725-6400

Even A Fire Station Needed SERVPRO to Cleanup After A Toilet Overflowed

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Margate Fire Station called SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City to clean up after a toilet overflowed

911, What's your emergency? When a Margate Fire Station's toilet overflowed, they called SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City to remediate. Since the water came from the toilet, it's considered black water meaning you need to call in experienced remediation specialists who understand the best practices for restoration to handle the cleanup. This is because black water poses a serious threat.

What Is Black Water?

Water from an overflowed toilet is contaminated with feces and urine.  

Why Is It Dangerous?

Contaminated water carries dangerous bacteria that can cause humans and animals to become sick. This can occur from contact with small wounds or scratches. You should not attempt to clean up this water yourself. Our technicians are trained to do this safely. 

Diseases that can be caused by black water include the following:

• Hepatitis

• Gastroenteritis

• Giardia

• Campylobacteriosis

• Typhoid

• Cholera

What Should You Do About It?

DO contact SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City to have us professionally remediate and handle it for you. Our trained techs will begin the process of extracting the remaining water, disinfecting your home, and drying it out with industrial equipment. It’s critical this process happens quickly to avoid irreversible damage and mold growth.

What Should You Not Do About It? 

Do Not ever attempt to clean up yourself after an overflowed toilet.  Call the professionals at SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City at 954-725-6400 or 954-741-4321. 

BATHROOM WATER LEAK IN COOPER CITY

2/15/2022 (Permalink)

Bathroom leak flooded many rooms in their Cooper City home.

After a long day at work, a Cooper City resident came home to a horrible, watery mess. Their bathroom floor was flooded and apparently, water traveled throughout their house. SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City was called to mitigate and remove the water. 

FINDING THE CAUSE OF THE LEAK

Once SERVPRO finds out what was the cause of the water leak, we then confirm where the water went. Boy does water travel. Our techs used moisture detection equipment to confirm the areas of water migration. This eliminates the guesswork for where the water seeped into the subfloor.  We then see if and where the tile needs to be removed in the bathroom to dry the subfloor.

WATER REMOVAL OR EXTRACTION 

SERVPRO technicians have different types of water removal equipment to ensure they can handle each water loss situation right. In the case of a household, portable pumps are convenient to take into small spaces such as under the bathroom sink after removing the toe kick on the cabinet. The extractor wands fit underneath for speedy removal of the moisture.

MONITORING THE DRYING PROCESS

Before beginning the drying process, our SERVPRO techs take air measurements in other areas of the home to set drying goals. This ensures the water loss areas return to the same interior humidity levels as the rest of the house. During drying, they take readings regularly to make sure the process is happening as planned and drying goals get attained.

QUICK ACTION

By calling SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City immediately, we were able to save the customer money by restoring their property rather than replacing it. Simply add our phone numbers to your cell phone so you too will know who to call in a water emergency. 954-725-6400 or 954-741-4321.

4 STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A WATER DAMAGE

2/1/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Dave/Cooper City tech assessing water damages in Davie home.

Water intrusion in your home is unexpected and can leave East Davie/Cooper City residents feeling bewildered and overwhelmed. Knowing these 4 steps can help to protect your belongings is key to recovery. 

 1. Dry Wet Areas
Before you get to cleaning, dry the area as much as possible. If water lingers too long, you could have a serious mold problem. Standing water can pose a danger to electronics and damage building materials.Contact SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City and we'll come out to access your damages, giving you a price for you to see if you're going to use insurance or self-pay. If you are doing cleanup yourself, once you're certain the area is safe, outward-facing fans can help with ventilation without blowing any debris around inside. 2. Use the Right Supplies
Cleaning water damage can involve a lot of materials. You'll potentially be working around mold and cleaning chemicals as well as anything unsanitary brought inside with the water. Disinfectant is crucial; just make sure you're not mixing cleaning supplies.  3. Get Your Trash Can
Some materials that have been damaged by water intrusion can be saved so long as you wash, disinfect and dry them as soon as possible. For other items, it's best to toss them once you've documented the damage for your insurance agent. 4. Ask for SERVPRO'S Help
Flood damage can be immense, and you may not see the extent of the damage until you begin cleaning. This process often requires many specialized materials, and going about it incorrectly could mean you have hidden damage or mold to deal with later on. Depending on your experience and confidence level, you may be better off consulting SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City water damage restoration service because we have experience with damage from water leaks.

 Please store our phone numbers in the contacts of your cell phones for those emergency situations when minutes count.954-741-4321 or 954-725-6400

DID YOU KNOW THAT THERE IS DIFFERENT TYPES OF WATER?

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Some types of water damage can be as difficult to clean up as a child.

Types of Water

Any kind of water needs to be immediately addressed to ensure further damage doesn’t occur. Before grabbing the mop and bucket or wet vacuum, it is vital to understand the type of water that is being dealt with. They are three categories of water:

Clean Water: As its name suggests, this type poses no threat. This damage occurs when a water supply line leaks, a sink or bathtub without contaminants overflows, melting snow or rainwater infiltrates the home.
Gray Water: Once water mixes with chemicals or minimal biological contaminants, it moves to this category. Sources may include a leaking dishwasher, urine-only toilet overflow, or water condensation.
Black Water: This is unsanitary water full of bacteria and microorganisms harmful to humans and animals. If there was a recent flood, it could mean those rising water included sewage and other debris.

Types of Damage
When assessing water damage to determine repairs, understanding the types is important.

Class 1: The least harmful kind, typically means that a minimal amount was absorbed in the affected areas. It is usually easy to clean.
Class 2: Known for quick evaporation rates, it can quickly absorb carpeting and other porous materials. This damage typically requires more extensive repairs.
Class 3: If a sprinkler or pipe bursts, it can rapidly drench floors, walls, furniture, and other belongings. The rapid rate of evaporation requires quick action and water remediation measures to ensure the damage doesn’t spread or promote mold growth.
Class 4: Excessive flooding means massive saturation of integral home components. Consulting water damage and remediation expert is the best bet containing the situation and ensuring further damage doesn’t happen.

QUICK RESPONSE

While there are many levels of water damage, SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City's quick action is key to getting your home back to normal. 

CALL US 24/7 FOR IMMEDIATE RESPONSE                  954-725-6400  or  954-741-4321

Water Damage Cleanup Tips

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Professional water restoration companies have the best chance of reinstating your home to its previous condition.

Over the past few years, floods have killed more individuals than tornadoes and lightning combined. Flooding can cause life-threating damage to you, your home, and your business. When dealing with the aftermath of water damage, first and foremost you need to think about safety. Wait until it is safe to return to the property before assessing the damages. While light damage can usually be taken care of by the homeowner, a major flood will present extremely hazardous conditions and should be cleaned and restored by a professional.

Getting Ready to Clean Up

When it is safe to investigate, here are some tips before you begin cleaning up from water damage:

• Beware of any living critters (snakes, rodents, insects, etc.) that may have been carried in by the water.
• Assess the situation by looking for exterior damage, foundation cracks, broken pilings, or slanted floors and walls.
• Avoid turning on any lights, ceiling fans, appliances, or anything else that requires electricity and turn off the power.

However, you should not enter the building if there seems to be any signs of structural damage.

The Cleanup Process

First, you need to make sure you are protecting yourself when cleaning. You should wear protective clothing, boots, and gloves and sanitize your hands often. When you are ready to begin, here are some things to prioritize when cleaning up from water damage:

• Check to see if your water supply is safe to use for cleaning and try to contain water within the affected area.
• Take photos and make a list of all of the damages.
• Open all of the doors and windows to allow for ventilation in the space.
• Remove all trash and debris from the area.
• Start absorbing all of the moisture in the home using wet vac, shop vac, fans, or dehumidifiers to prevent any mold growth (and check to see if it hasn’t started to grow already.)
• Place aluminum foil between wet flooring materials and furniture legs.
• Remove any porous materials, such as insulation or carpet, if they are wet to avoid mildew.
• Disinfect hard surfaces with hot water and cleaning supplies.

For major flooding and or natural disasters, it is not the time to attempt a DIY cleaning project.

In situations with serious water damage, the best thing you can do is call a professional. Professional water restoration companies have the best chance of reinstating your home to its previous condition.

As always, we are here for you to restore any property plagued with water damage. Contact our water removal and water damage remediation team immediately for further assistance.

Is Your Property Protected with an Emergency Ready Plan?

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes, businesses with an ERP are best equipped to resume business right away.

SERVPRO of East Davie / Cooper City is thrilled to announce our new program aimed to save businesses both time and money. The SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan (ERP) is a powerful way to reduce the amount of time your business is inactive by establishing an immediate plan of action.

Timely mitigation is imperative business owners in South Florida. With a SERVPRO ERP, you will be armed with the knowledge of who to call, what to do, and what to expect. The following are some of the most critical ways that an ERP can benefit your bottom line:

• FREE to Enroll
• Priority Response Following a Hurricane
• Priority Pre-Authorizations
• Certifies SERVPRO of East Davie / Cooper City as your mitigation & restoration provider
• Detailed billing and job documentation

If you are looking to protect your business, the time to sign up is NOW! We are currently making appointments for ERPs, so call our office today to reserve a day.

Here at SERVPRO of East Davie / Cooper City, we understand just how important it is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. As disaster recovery experts, we are close by and ready to respond immediately, 24 hours a day 7 days a week, when you need us most!

When disaster strikes, businesses with an ERP are best equipped to resume business right away. Some of the ERP services include:

• Fire Damage Restoration
• Water Extraction & Drying
• Reconstruction & Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Catastrophic Storm Response
• Air Duct Cleaning
• Odor Removal & Deodorization
• Upholstery Cleaning
• Document Restoration
• Carpet & Tile Cleaning

Our team is ready to respond as quickly as possible in the event of an emergency. Together, we can make it "Like it never even happened." It's time to schedule your business's Emergency Ready Plan. Call us today! (954) 741-4321

The Dangers of Florida Flooding

7/26/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to deal with flood damage to your home or business, but major storms make it unavoidable at times.

Summer in Florida means constant rains, unpredictable thunderstorms, and the inevitable hurricanes. While every rainy season is a little bit different, one thing is for certain: Florida summers are very wet. The propensity for flooding varies depending upon your exact location South Florida. Since Florida is a peninsula state, surrounding waters make it particularly vulnerable to flooding. However, flooding is a concern for people across the country and even all around the globe.

Recent research points to the fact that rising seas levels over the next 100 years will put close to 4 million homes in the United States at risk of flooding. This means that it is now more important than ever to take the risk of flooding seriously, especially for those residents living in South Florida. With more than a thousand miles of coastline and a subtropical climate, this region is extra susceptible to floods.

Looking back in history can help to offer some perspective on flooding and its inherent risk. Some of the most well-known over the last 100 years include:

• 2012: Tropical Storm Debby
• 2008: Tropical Storm Fay
• 1964: Hurricane Dora
• 1947: Cape Sable Hurricane
• 1928: Okeechobee Hurricane

Remembering how real the threat of flooding can be is helpful to take the aftermath of rainstorms and hurricanes seriously. All Floridians, but particularly those who live near the coastline, need to understand dangers of flooding. Listening to NOAA Weather Radio is a great first step. Pay careful attention to their recommendations both before and after any storm. People who live in Tampa, Miami, Fort Meyers, and Sarasota should take extra precaution following adverse weather.

No one wants to deal with flood damage to your home or business, but major storms make it unavoidable at times. At SERVPRO, we have decades of experience in dealing with flood damage, water damage, and storm damage. Our flood damage team goes the extra mile to ensure that our customers are safe and happy with our work. Together, we can make it “Like it never even happened.”

Garage Water Damage Issues

5/10/2021 (Permalink)

If left unattended, garage water damage can result in some really costly repairs.

South Florida homeowners who are lucky enough to have a garage can relate to the importance of having one. When summer storms start rolling in, the ability to park inside of a garage is an important luxury. As such, keeping your garage is tiptop shape is critical for many who take pride in a clutter-free garage that has enough room for a car or two. When people think of home water damage, they rarely think about their garage. However, garage water damage is something that should not be ignored.

Residential water damage can be costly and inconvenient, so when it takes place in the garage that is certainly a preference. Nevertheless, flooding in the garage can potentially cause ruined walls and flooring. As such, making an effort to avoid garage water damage is important. In fact, garage water damage restoration is often more expensive than many would imagine. So, keep these tips in mind to prevent garage water damage in your home:

• Check your garage roof for leaks
• If weather stripping is worn down it must be replaced
• Check the roof gutters near the garage to remove any clogs
• Do not leave the garage door open during bad weather
• Regularly check the water heater for leaks
• Replace garage door panels when necessary

Some of these tips may seem obvious, but the garage is often one of the most ignored areas of the home. If left unattended, garage water damage can result in some really costly repairs. In some situations, structural damage and mold growth can occur as well. For this reason, we urge you to be diligent and proactive in preventing water damage in your garage.

Top Causes of Water Damage in Your Home

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

With an understanding of what commonly causes water damage in the home, a homeowner is best equipped to be on the lookout.

No one wants to have to deal with water damage in South Florida homes. Unfortunately, Floridians know that water damage comes with the territory of humid climate and heavy rains. As a homeowner, it is understood that there are certain inevitable unforeseen costs. Things break and need repairs, time wears on various parts of the home, and so on and so forth. Water damage, however, is one of those typical house issues that no one wants to deal with. From costly repairs to the headache of restoration, avoiding water damage is of course preferable.

While some water damage is unavoidable, a lot of typical issues actually stem from situations that could have been avoided. Knowing the most common causes of water damage in a home is the best first step in prevention. If you are aware of what to look out for, you may be able to spot a potential issue before it becomes a big problem. The following are some of the most common causes of water damage in a home:

1. Sewer lines are backed up
2. Pipes are leaking
3. Heavy rains
4. Toilet leaks
5. Issues with gutters
6. Faulty or malfunctioning appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, sinks, and washing machines
7. Problems with HVAC
8. Built up pressure in supply lines of washing machines
9. Water buildup in crawl space
10. Roof leaks

With an understanding of what commonly causes water damage in the home, a homeowner is best equipped to be on the lookout. Plus, noticing water damage early does a lot more than simply save in repair costs, it is actually good for you and your family’s health. When left untreated, water damage can quickly lay the foundation of mold growth. Not only will this add to the repair and restoration needs, but it can be damaging to the health of those who live in the home.

With this in mind, it is important to regularly check the above water damage hotspots. Knowing what to look for means being proactive in prevention and maintaining your home. As always, if you do spot water damage in your home we are here for you. Call our water damage repair and restoration team today to learn more!

What Happens When You Call in a Water Loss?

12/3/2020 (Permalink)

After our water damage expert is able to collect all of the information, we will send out our team immediately.

No one expects to have an emergency water damage situation in their home. In South Florida, when we think of water damage we often think of heavy rainstorms, flooding, or hurricanes. However, there are a number of day-to-day issues that can bring about a water emergency. From a pipe bursting to an appliance breaking, the unpredictability of homeownership can be scary, and expensive. While no one can forecast what may happen in their home, being aware of what to expect when the unexpected happens is key.

Emergency water damage often creates a hectic situation. The caller is flustered and eager to get someone to their home immediately. That is where SERVPRO really shines. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for immediate response to disasters of all sizes. When you call us about your water damage emergency situation, we will likely ask the following questions:

1. Your name and contact information
2. Your insurance information (if applicable)
3. The address of the business or home where the water damage has occurred
4. When did the water damage or flooding occur?
5. What caused the water damage (if the cause is known)?
6. Is there on-site electricity available?

After our water damage expert is able to collect all of this information, we will send out our team immediately. These questions are important to ensure that the SERVPRO team arrives to the scene quickly, with all of the correct equipment, and with the right number of technicians to handle the job effectively and efficiently. We take pride in being “faster to any size disaster!” Call us today to learn more!

SERVPRO Answers Pensacola’s Call for Storm Help

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

When Pensacola called asking for help, we immediately sent out our highly trained storm damage repair and restoration team.

While Florida residents can prepare for storms by protecting their homes and loved ones to the best of their ability, there are certain aspects that are out of anyone’s hands. For instance, when a large tropical storm or hurricane hits an area hard there will inevitably be some structural water damage that must be addressed immediately.

When a big storm hits, there is rarely enough emergency response teams available in the immediate area of the storm to properly repair and restore all of the damage. This was the case when Hurricane Sally came sweeping through the Florida Panhandle. Although it had weakened to a tropical storm, Sally still brought with it damaging flooding. So, when Pensacola called for help, SERVPRO of East Davie / Cooper City came to the rescue.

Out of 1,700 SERVPRO franchises, only 42 of them are on the emergency storm team and we are proudly one of them. This means that we travel to areas in need of storm damage and water damage repair and restoration. Our team is currently in Pensacola providing much needed help. Some of the most notable things that we are doing include:

• Water damage repair and restoration
• Storm damage repair and restoration
• Removing dry wall in damaged areas
• Interior roof repairs
• Removing carpet and laminate in flooring that suffered flood damage
• Removing ceilings to deal with roof damage
• Repairing flooring with flood damage where everything from the ground up (2-4 feet) must be removed

After the storm hit, we were contacted when an influx of calls came in for water damage repair and restoration. When Pensacola called asking for help, we immediately sent out our highly trained storm damage repair and restoration team. It is our honor to play a role in helping our neighbors to the north recover in their time of need.

Call us today to learn more about our storm damage and water damage services!

Protecting Your Home from Heavy Rains

6/10/2020 (Permalink)

From heavy winds to heavy rains, your home needs proper protection to survive big storms this summer.

South Florida homeowners are no strangers to heavy rains. As we move deeper and deeper into the summer season, it is imperative to take specific precautions to keep your home safe and sound in even the heaviest of rainstorms. While hurricane season has already started, we have yet to see our first major storm. The last few years have been known for hurricanes striking later into the season, so now is the perfect time to prepare.

The key to protecting your home from heavy rains is to do so proactively. Far too many South Florida homeowners fail to think about protecting their homes when the weather is nice. Then, when a major storm is coming they must rush around preparing the interior and exterior of their home. Something is inevitably missed or forgotten in those scenarios and that could lead to costly damage.

The following are some of the most important ways to protect your home from heavy rains this summer:

1. Clear out your gutters
2. Check the roof for any leaks
3. Fix any damaged or broken shingles/tiles
4. Trim any shrubbery or trees that are close to the home
5. Inspect the doors, windows, and walls for any leaks
6. Check the functionality of all shutters
7. Ensure that your insurance coverage is appropriate
8. Keep supplies like a first aid kit, canned foods, bottled water, batteries, and flashlights available
9. Define a plan for bringing in your outdoor furniture quickly and efficiently
10. Discuss an evacuation plan with your family

Storms in Florida can quickly turn from a minor concern to a major concern. With this in mind, it is extremely important to have a specific plan in place. If any of the above items have been on your to do list, now is the time to tackle them. From heavy winds to heavy rains, your home needs proper protection to survive big storms this summer.

As always, SERVPRO of East Dave / Cooper City is here for all of your water damage or storm damage needs. No job is too big or too small for our team and our storm damage experts are waiting for your call.

Tips for a Successful Water Cleanup

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

A broken pipe is by far one of the greatest nightmares homeowners face. Even just a small broken kitchen pipe can quickly cause a considerable quantity of damage to your home. It is for this reason that you need to take care of water damage immediately.

Dealing with water damage requires seeking the help of a trained professional water restoration expert, such as the experts of SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City. Before they get there, there are a few things you can do to assist in keeping the damages to a minimum. Here are a few tips:

Turn Off the Water

You might be tempted to seek out the source of the leak as your first step. This can be problematic, however, depending on the type of leak or damage. If, for instance is simply an overflowed sink, then you would just turn off the sink. However, what if a pipe that you can’t see has burst?

It’s because of reasons like these that you need to turn off the water supply as soon as possible. It is also recommended that you temporarily turn off electrical power as well. The last thing you want is for the water to mix with electrical wires!

Accelerate the Drying Process

The next step entails doing everything in your power to get your home to dry. Start by opening windows and turning on fans. This will get air flowing through your home, which will help to start drying it and also reduce the buildup of disgusting odors.

If you have a dehumidifier, turn it on immediately. It will extract moisture from the air, thus helping accelerate the drying process. Run it for as long as possible. If you stop early, it could lead to the growing of mold and mildew.

If you don’t have a dehumidifier, then don’t worry, because the water restoration experts will bring one with them. As we said earlier, however, just make sure you contact them right away. They need to get to your home as soon as possible!

Make sure you also remove rugs and other portable carpeting and place them outside to dry. Try to wipe down furniture and personal items (books, chairs, toys) as much as possible.

Pull Out a Wet/Dry Vacuum

Another step that we recommend taking is pulling out a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. We understand that you might not have one. If you do, use it to remove as much water as possible from carpets, upholstered furniture and/or tile and wood floors.

This process can take quite a while, but it’s important to remove as much water as possible. Also, make sure you focus more on wood surfaces than carpeted areas. Due to wood’s porous nature, it’s apt to soak up all the water, which in turn will cause it to become warped and delaminated.

Again, if you don’t have a wet/dry vacuum, don’t worry. The restoration professionals will take care of this for you. Just make sure you contact them immediately!

Things Not To Do

There are some things you should definitely NOT do after your home suffers from water damage:

• Never leave web fabrics and clothing items in place. Try to hang them.
• Also avoid leaving books, magazines and other such items on wet floors.
• Please refrain from trying to use a regular vacuum cleaner to clean up water.
• Avoid using electrical equipment and appliances a like television.
• Stay out of rooms that have a wet ceiling.

These might seem obvious, but it’s good to know. Be especially careful with wet ceilings. They could be much weaker than you think, and the last thing we want is for a roof to collapse on you!

Final Steps

The real work won’t start until the restoration company gets there. Professionals, such as SERVPRO, possess the equipment needed to do real water extraction and repair. Part of this process will involve installing certain equipment, be it professional-grade dehumidifiers and whatnot.

When this occurs, make sure you follow the directions given to you. Usually, the professionals will ask you to keep their equipment running for a while. Make sure you stick to their schedule and do not arbitrarily turn off their equipment. This could negatively affect the drying process and make things worse.

The last thing the professionals will do is give you preventative maintenance tips. It is recommended that you follow through on these steps to insure that your home and belongings return to their former state. It can make the difference between whether or not your home ever suffers unneeded water damage again!

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is here 24/7/365 to answer your questions or concerns.  Call us at 954-741-4321.

To Save or Not to Save-Water Damage Problems

12/17/2019 (Permalink)

One of the most common topics after a client suffers water damage, is how and what they can save from water damage.  Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this question. Every water damage is unique in some sense, so what can be saved is really on a case by case basis. However, here are some guidelines that you can use to make the best decision possible.

What Type of Water Damage

Determining whether the water that damaged your personal belongings is clean or contaminated will be a big factor in whether or not it can be salvaged. Obviously, if you are dealing with clean water, the chances of you being able to save some of your belongings is higher.  Even though it may be possible to restore something that is damaged by contaminated water, it is more than likely not worth the health risk that it may bring.

Porous vs Non Porous Materials

Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, and paper are very good at retaining water. This also means it increases the chance of other dangers like mold growth, and damage beyond repair. This is not always the case and if handled quickly and properly, many times these items can be saved as well. On the other hand, porous materials like marble, metal, and porcelain - among others - usually have no problem being restored. Since there is really nothing for bacteria and mold to root itself in, a simple cleaning is usually no problem.

The Amount of Time the Water Saturated

Another factor that will come into the equation of determining what can and cannot be saved is how long the materials have been wet for. The longer an item sits in water, the deeper it can penetrate. As you can imagine, this makes it increasingly more difficult to bring it back to its normal state. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a bit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them.

Factor in the Replacement Cost

Water damage restoration of personal belongings is no different than any other type of repair. You will always want to evaluate how much it is going to cost to repair something versus simply replacing it. Is the item you want to save really worth paying a professional to do work on it? Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not.

You should also take into account that paying for restoration does not guarantee your item will be returned to its original state. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace the item anyways.

If you are unsure about whether or not one of your items could be salvaged, it is best that you get it analyzed by a professional. If you hire a water damage restoration company to handle a dry out of your property, they will be able to assist you in assessing damage to your personal belongings as well. To speak to a professional water restoration representative at SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City contact them today.  They are always there to help.  954-741-4321.

Common Signs of Water Damage

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage in a home can be a serious problem if not detected early. Unfortunately, water inside of a house can migrate anywhere it wants to and thus present a potential issue for homeowners who are unaware of its existence. Contrary to popular belief, a leaky or busted pipe is not always easy to notice, especially when water is moving slowly. The ability to recognize the most common signs of water damage is critical to identifying the problem before it becomes a costly, major headache. While water damage repair and restoration can fix almost any losses, protecting your home or business from water damage by spotting the signs early is extremely important.

Things like flood damage or a toilet overflow show water damage in a property clearly. However, some of the most damaging issues come from the seemingly undetectable leaks. The following are the most common signs of water damage:

1. Moisture in carpet or other flooring
2. Painted walls with raised lines or wallpaper that begins to peel
3. Dark grouting around floor tiles
4. Separation between trim or baseboards from the wall
5. Stains on ceilings that look like rust or watermarks
6. Mold spore growth on walls or ceilings
7. A musty odor in particular spots in the home
8. Higher water bills
9. Buckling of wood floors
10. Changes in the “typical” sounds of the plumbing system

From the walls to the floors, water damage usually shows itself in one way or another. Being aware of the common signs of water damage can help homeowners save money and the integrity of the home’s structure.

If you think that your home is showing some of the above signs, contact us today to learn more about our water damage repair and restoration services. 

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City's IICRC Certified Technicians can help determine if there's moisture in your home using specialty equipment.  Should you find signs of water damage, call us at 954-741-4321 for an assessment.

The dangers of Water Damage in your Home

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City wants to help our community understand the dangers of water damage to your home. Flooding can be caused by a variety of things from natural disasters to dishwasher leaks or washing machine leaks. Regardless of how a water damage situation occurs, handing the situation in a timely manner is the key to prevent serious destruction to your home.

The initial step in preventing this type of harm to your home is in the recognition of water damage in the first place. In some cases, water damage is quite obvious and easy to spot. In other cases, however, water in your home is rather subtle and may begin to cause damage before it is even recognized. As such, look out for the following signs of water damage in your home:

• Look for stains on the walls, ceilings, and window/door frames
• Check drywall for cracks
• Look at the floors for buckling or warping as well as dark spots on wood floors
• Feel around for damp carpeting
• Smell for odors of dampness or mold/musk
• Check areas where paint is peeling
• Look out for mold spores which often appear as discoloration
• Check around the pipes in the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room for leaks or water stains
• Monitor the home’s exterior looking for damaged roofing and standing water outside of the home – the home should be the highest point of your property as the ground should appear downward from the house

If you suspect water has caused damage to your home, call SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City at 954-741-4321 and one of our IICRC Certified Technicians will help you address your concerns and provide a course of action to prevent further damage and mitigate the problem.

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is Faster to any size disaster

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

The goal of services for residential water damage  is to dry the home as soon as possible. You may only have a mop or perhaps a wet vacuum that can be used to soak up some of the moisture in the home. This however, is not the most effective way to dry up the mess.

Professional services from SERVPRO utilize powerful equipment to extract the water from the home so that the surfaces are dry. Besides, the moisture must be removed from the air, and powerful fans can be brought into the home to thoroughly dry out the space. Monitors can be used to track the progress so that the fans and dehumidifiers remain on until the humidity level has been restored to normal. This ensures that all signs of moisture are removed from the home before the repair and restoration work begins.

The Need for Fast Results

Any time water or high levels of humidity are in the home, there is a concern that mold growth may develop. Humidity and moisture should be removed from the home as soon as possible to decrease this risk. Through your efforts to remove water from your home, it may take more time to accomplish the same results, and there is a possibility that you may not be able to remove all of the humidity for several weeks or longer. This is the time when mold growth may begin, which could result in the need for mold remediation services. This can increase the time and expense associated with repairing the home after residential water damage in East Davie/Cooper City.

You may be able to repair the residential water damage in East Davie/Cooper City on your own, but this is not advisable. It is best to enjoy the fast, thorough response of a skilled water damage restoration team.

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is the company to contact when you are dealing with water damage in your home or place or business. We can provide you with the fast response that the situation calls for.

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper is always here to help 24/7/365!  Call (954) 741-4321.

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City CARES!

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

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)?

After we have obtained all of this information we will be able to get to your water loss faster with the correct SERVPRO equipment and the right amount of SERVPRO technicians to take care of your water loss "Like it never even happened."  

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is "Faster to any Disaster"! Call 954-741-4321.

Flood Damage

11/8/2019 (Permalink)

This is a photo taken by our local news station, NBC 6. The Sawgrass Mills flooded in June of 2017 due to heavy rains.

Flooding is a very common occurrence in many states in the U.S and is one of the worst things which can happen to your property. The unfortunate part is that there is really very little you can do to prevent it. The local authorities should take sufficient preventive measures to build appropriate flood defenses in flood prone areas. However, there are times when even these prove to be inadequate when faced with the fury of nature.

What is a flood?

A flood is essentially a natural disaster that can have long-term effects on individuals as well as the environment. If your property is near a river, in a floodplain, or in a coastal area, it can be a major concern. There are a number of factors that cause floods. It’s actually a combination of very heavy rainfall (which causes rivers and oceans to overflow). This can occur at any time and not only during the monsoons or winter. In most instances, floods take a few days to develop and occur when there is very heavy rainfall. The rivers overflow and the water spreads onto the floodplain (the banks).

Flash Floods

However, flash floods can also occur when there is excessive rainfall over a very short period of time. These occur without a warning and cause a lot of devastation, to life and property. Coastal areas too are at risk of floods, due to their proximity to the sea. Tidal waves and storms can bring large amounts of sea water on to the land. The situation can worsen if there is a combination of low atmospheric pressure, “spring tides”, "king tides" and storms.

The Effects

Flooding can be extremely dangerous as it can disrupt public & personal transport as it cuts off roads as well as railway lines. It also severs communication links when the telephone lines get damaged and sewage spills are very common. The standing water and soaked materials in a home result in bacteria, mold & viruses.

They can trigger allergic reactions and cause disease long after the flood waters have abated. It can take months to remedy flood damage and you will have to call in professional water removal and restoration experts to handle the job in case your house gets flooded. They have the expertise, knowledge, experience and equipment to handle flood damage quickly and effectively, before it catalyzes the growth of mildew and mold on your property.

If you've experienced flooding in your home, call SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City 954-741-4321 to assess the damages.

Water Intrusion And Your Home

12/19/2018 (Permalink)

While we work hard to care for our homes, we must be diligent to ensure that there will be no water intrusion into our homes.  As a homeowner, we need to take the necessary precautions and steps to minimize the amount of this moisture to reduce the risks of mod developing. 

Mold tends to become an issue due to water intrusion, and this has developed into a huge issue for homeowners and property managers.  Not taking care of water in your home will encourage mold growth.  As mold spores are invisible to the naked eye, they tend to make their way through the home, and are always present in indoor and outdoor air. 

It will become a nuisance as well as a possible health issue when it starts to grow. 

Mold requires a food source, the right temperature, above freezing and plenty of moisture.  These conditions are all a part of your home's make up, so be diligent in checking on your home for any water intrusion.  If you do come across a mold issue, call SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City.  We are the mold remediation experts!  954-741-4321

Tips To A Successful Water Cleanup

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

A broken pipe is by far one of the greatest nightmares homeowners face. Even just a small broken kitchen pipe can quickly cause a considerable quantity of damage to your home. It is for this reason that you need to take care of water damage immediately.

Dealing with water damage requires seeking the help of a trained professional water restoration expert, such as the experts of SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City. Before they get there, there are a few things you can do to assist in keeping the damages to a minimum. Here are a few tips:

Turn Off the Water

You might be tempted to seek out the source of the leak as your first step. This can be problematic, however, depending on the type of leak or damage. If, for instance is simply an overflowed sink, then you would just turn off the sink. However, what if a pipe that you can’t see has burst?

It’s because of reasons like these that you need to turn off the water supply as soon as possible. It is also recommended that you temporarily turn off electrical power as well. The last thing you want is for the water to mix with electrical wires!

Accelerate the Drying Process

The next step entails doing everything in your power to get your home to dry. Start by opening windows and turning on fans. This will get air flowing through your home, which will help to start drying it and also reduce the buildup of disgusting odors.

If you have a dehumidifier, turn it on immediately. It will extract moisture from the air, thus helping accelerate the drying process. Run it for as long as possible. If you stop early, it could lead to the growing of mold and mildew.

If you don’t have a dehumidifier, then don’t worry, because the water restoration experts will bring one with them. As we said earlier, however, just make sure you contact them right away. They need to get to your home as soon as possible!

Make sure you also remove rugs and other portable carpeting and place them outside to dry. Try to wipe down furniture and personal items (books, chairs, toys) as much as possible.

Pull Out a Wet/Dry Vacuum

Another step that we recommend taking is pulling out a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. We understand that you might not have one. If you do, use it to remove as much water as possible from carpets, upholstered furniture and/or tile and wood floors.

This process can take quite a while, but it’s important to remove as much water as possible. Also, make sure you focus more on wood surfaces than carpeted areas. Due to wood’s porous nature, it’s apt to soak up all the water, which in turn will cause it to become warped and delaminated.

Again, if you don’t have a wet/dry vacuum, don’t worry. The restoration professionals will take care of this for you. Just make sure you contact them immediately!

Things Not To Do

There are some things you should definitely NOT do after your home suffers from water damage:

• Never leave web fabrics and clothing items in place. Try to hang them.
• Also avoid leaving books, magazines and other such items on wet floors.
• Please refrain from trying to use a regular vacuum cleaner to clean up water.
• Avoid using electrical equipment and appliances a like television.
• Stay out of rooms that have a wet ceiling.

These might seem obvious, but it’s good to know. Be especially careful with wet ceilings. They could be much weaker than you think, and the last thing we want is for a roof to collapse on you!

Final Steps

The real work won’t start until the restoration company gets there. Professionals, such as SERVPRO, possess the equipment needed to do real water extraction and repair. Part of this process will involve installing certain equipment, be it professional-grade dehumidifiers and whatnot.

When this occurs, make sure you follow the directions given to you. Usually, the professionals will ask you to keep their equipment running for a while. Make sure you stick to their schedule and do not arbitrarily turn off their equipment. This could negatively affect the drying process and make things worse.

The last thing the professionals will do is give you preventative maintenance tips. It is recommended that you follow through on these steps to insure that your home and belongings return to their former state. It can make the difference between whether or not your home ever suffers unneeded water damage again!

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is here 24/7 to answer your questions or concerns.  Call us at 954-741-4321.

To Save Or Not To Save - After A Water Damage Occurs

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

One of the most common topics after a client suffers water damage, is how and what they can save from water damage.  Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this question. Every water damage is unique in some sense, so what can be saved is really on a case by case basis. However, here are some guidelines that you can use to make the best decision possible.

What Type of Water Damage

Determining whether the water that damaged your personal belongings is clean or contaminated will be a big factor in whether or not it can be salvaged. Obviously, if you are dealing with clean water, the chances of you being able to save some of your belongings is higher.  Even though it may be possible to restore something that is damaged by contaminated water, it is more than likely not worth the health risk that it may bring.

Porous vs Non Porous Materials

Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, and paper are very good at retaining water. This also means it increases the chance of other dangers like mold growth, and damage beyond repair. This is not always the case and if handled quickly and properly, many times these items can be saved as well. On the other hand, porous materials like marble, metal, and porcelain - among others - usually have no problem being restored. Since there is really nothing for bacteria and mold to root itself in, a simple cleaning is usually no problem.

The Amount of Time the Water Saturated

Another factor that will come into the equation of determining what can and cannot be saved is how long the materials have been wet for. The longer an item sits in water, the deeper it can penetrate. As you can imagine, this makes it increasingly more difficult to bring it back to its normal state. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a bit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them.

Factor in the Replacement Cost

Water damage restoration of personal belongings is no different than any other type of repair. You will always want to evaluate how much it is going to cost to repair something versus simply replacing it. Is the item you want to save really worth paying a professional to do work on it? Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not.

You should also take into account that paying for restoration does not guarantee your item will be returned to its original state. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace the item anyways.

If you are unsure about whether or not one of your items could be salvaged, it is best that you get it analyzed by a professional. If you hire a water damage restoration company to handle a dry out of your property, they will be able to assist you in assessing damage to your personal belongings as well. To speak to a professional water restoration representative at SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City contact them today.  They are always there to help.  954-741-4321.

The Dangers of Water Damage in Your Home

11/29/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City wants to help our community understand the dangers of water damage to your home. Flooding can be caused by a variety of things from natural disasters to dishwasher leaks or washing machine leaks. Regardless of how a water damage situation occurs, handing the situation in a timely manner is the key to prevent serious destruction to your home.

The initial step in preventing this type of harm to your home is in the recognition of water damage in the first place. In some cases, water damage is quite obvious and easy to spot. In other cases, however, water in your home is rather subtle and may begin to cause damage before it is even recognized. As such, look out for the following signs of water damage in your home:

• Look for stains on the walls, ceilings, and window/door frames
• Check drywall for cracks
• Look at the floors for buckling or warping as well as dark spots on wood floors
• Feel around for damp carpeting
• Smell for odors of dampness or mold/musk
• Check areas where paint is peeling
• Look out for mold spores which often appear as discoloration
• Check around the pipes in the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room for leaks or water stains
• Monitor the home’s exterior looking for damaged roofing and standing water outside of the home – the home should be the highest point of your property as the ground should appear downward from the house

If you suspect water has caused damage to your home, call SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City at 954-741-4321 and one of our IICRC Certified Technicians will help you address your concerns and provide a course of action to prevent further damage and mitigate the problem.

Common Signs of Water Damage

11/20/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage in a home can be a serious problem if not detected early. Unfortunately, water inside of a house can migrate anywhere it wants to and thus present a potential issue for homeowners who are unaware of its existence. Contrary to popular belief, a leaky or busted pipe is not always easy to notice, especially when water is moving slowly. The ability to recognize the most common signs of water damage is critical to identifying the problem before it becomes a costly, major headache. While water damage repair and restoration can fix almost any losses, protecting your home or business from water damage by spotting the signs early is extremely important.

Things like flood damage or a toilet overflow show water damage in a property clearly. However, some of the most damaging issues come from the seemingly undetectable leaks. The following are the most common signs of water damage:

1. Moisture in carpet or other flooring
2. Painted walls with raised lines or wallpaper that begins to peel
3. Dark grouting around floor tiles
4. Separation between trim or baseboards from the wall
5. Stains on ceilings that look like rust or watermarks
6. Mold spore growth on walls or ceilings
7. A musty odor in particular spots in the home
8. Higher water bills
9. Buckling of wood floors
10. Changes in the “typical” sounds of the plumbing system

From the walls to the floors, water damage usually shows itself in one way or another. Being aware of the common signs of water damage can help homeowners to save money and the integrity of the home’s structure. If you think that your home is showing some of the above signs, contact us today to learn more about our water damage repair and restoration services.  SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City IICRC Certified Technicians can help determine if there's moisture in your home using specialty equipment.  Should you find signs of water damage, call us at 954-741-4321 for an assessment.

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is Faster To Any Disaster

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

The goal of services for residential water damage  is to dry the home as soon as possible. You may only have a mop or perhaps a wet vacuum that can be used to soak up some of the moisture in the home. This however, is not the most effective way to dry up the mess. Professional services from SERVPRO utilize powerful equipment to extract the water from the home so that the surfaces are dry. Besides, the moisture must be removed from the air, and powerful fans can be brought into the home to thoroughly dry out the space. Monitors can be used to track the progress so that the fans and dehumidifiers remain on until the humidity level has been restored to normal. This ensures that all signs of moisture are removed from the home before the repair and restoration work begins.

The Need for Fast Results

Any time water or high levels of humidity are in the home, there is a concern that mold growth may develop. Humidity and moisture should be removed from the home as soon as possible to decrease this risk. Through your efforts to remove water from your home, it may take more time to accomplish the same results, and there is a possibility that you may not be able to remove all of the humidity for several weeks or longer. This is the time when mold growth may begin, which could result in the need for mold remediation services. This can increase the time and expense associated with repairing the home after residential water damage in East Davie/Cooper City.

You may be able to repair the residential water damage in East Davie/Cooper City on your own, but this is not advisable. It is best to enjoy the fast, thorough response of a skilled water damage restoration team. SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is the company to contact when you are dealing with water damage your home. We can provide you with the fast response that the situation calls for.

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper is always here to help 24/7!  Call (954) 741-4321.

SERVPRO Cares When You Call

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

When you call SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City expect to have the most professional and caring staff be on the receiving end of your call.  We understand how important it is to receive the best customer experience, especially in devastating times.

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)?

After we have obtained all of this information we will be able to get to your water loss faster with the correct SERVPRO equipment and the right amount of SERVPRO technicans to take care of your water loss "Like it never even happened."  

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is "Faster to any Disaster"! Call 954-741-4321.

When water damages occur, the wrong response can cost you

10/5/2018 (Permalink)

This brand new kitchen suffered water damage due to a faulty refrigerator line

When water damages occur in your home or workplace, avoid the frustration and potential risk of handling the cleanup yourself. We will respond quickly, with the right equipment to dry and help protect your property.

Water Damage Response Tips for Property Owner
(These tips are for clean water situations only) 

* Shut off the water source if possible, and if it can be one safely

* Remove excess water by mopping and blotting

* remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Do not put cushion covers in washing machine.

* Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs

* Hang furs and leather good separately at room temperature

* Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.

* Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water

* Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

* Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting

Components of Proper Water Damage Restoration

*Fast Action 
*Thorough Drying

Even small water damages have the potential to cause serious structural and indoor air quality issues over time. The key to avoiding costly future restoration is to handle every water problem as a real threat to your property. If you have any questions or need help to ensure your property is drying properly, contact us at 954-725-6400!

Water Intrusion = MOLD

12/20/2017 (Permalink)

In this kitchen you can see the mold that has grown behind the oven that is going to be removed.

While we work hard to care for our homes, we must be diligent to ensure that there will be no water intrusion into our homes.  As a homeowner, we need to take the necessary precautions and steps to minimize the amount of this moisture to reduce the risks of mod developing. 

Mold tends to become an issue due to water intrusion, and this has developed into a huge issue for homeowners and property managers.  Not taking care of water in your home will encourage mold growth.  As mold spores are invisible to the naked eye, they tend to make their way through the home, and are always present in indoor and outdoor air. 

It will become a nuisance as well as a possible health issue when it starts to grow. 

Mold requires a food source, the right temperature, above freezing and plenty of moisture.  These conditions are all a part of your home's make up, so be diligent in checking on your home for any water intrusion.  If you do come across a mold issue, call SERVPRO of East Davie Cooper City.  We are the mold remediation experts!

Successful Water Cleanup Tips

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

This condo has been flooded from a condo above the water is going to be extracted immediately.

A broken pipe is by far one of the greatest nightmares homeowners face. Even just a small broken kitchen pipe can quickly cause a considerable quantity of damage to your home. It is for this reason that you need to take care of water damage immediately.

Dealing with water damage requires seeking the help of a trained professional water restoration expert, such as the experts of SERVPRO. Before they get there, there are a few things you can do to assist in keeping the damages to a minimum. Here are a few tips:

Turn Off the Water

You might be tempted to seek out the source of the leak as your first step. This can be problematic, however, depending on the type of leak or damage. If, for instance is simply an overflowed sink, then you would just turn off the sink. However, what if a pipe that you can’t see has burst?

It’s because of reasons like these that you need to turn off the water supply as soon as possible. It is also recommended that you temporarily turn off electrical power as well. The last thing you want is for the water to mix with electrical wires!

Accelerate the Drying Process

The next step entails doing everything in your power to get your home to dry. Start by opening windows and turning on fans. This will get air flowing through your home, which will help to start drying it and also reduce the buildup of disgusting odors.

If you have a dehumidifier, turn it on immediately. It will extract moisture from the air, thus helping accelerate the drying process. Run it for as long as possible. If you stop early, it could lead to the growing of mold and mildew.

If you don’t have a dehumidifier, then don’t worry, because the water restoration experts will bring one with them. As we said earlier, however, just make sure you contact them right away. They need to get to your home as soon as possible!

Make sure you also remove rugs and other portable carpeting and place them outside to dry. Try to wipe down furniture and personal items (books, chairs, toys) as much as possible.

Pull Out a Wet/Dry Vacuum

Another step that we recommend taking is pulling out a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. We understand that you might not have one. If you do, use it to remove as much water as possible from carpets, upholstered furniture and/or tile and wood floors.

This process can take quite a while, but it’s important to remove as much water as possible. Also, make sure you focus more on wood surfaces than carpeted areas. Due to wood’s porous nature, it’s apt to soak up all the water, which in turn will cause it to become warped and delaminated.

Again, if you don’t have a wet/dry vacuum, don’t worry. The restoration professionals will take care of this for you. Just make sure you contact them immediately!

Things Not To Do

There are some things you should definitely NOT do after your home suffers from water damage:

• Never leave web fabrics and clothing items in place. Try to hang them.
• Also avoid leaving books, magazines and other such items on wet floors.
• Please refrain from trying to use a regular vacuum cleaner to clean up water.
• Avoid using electrical equipment and appliances a like television.
• Stay out of rooms that have a wet ceiling.

These might seem obvious, but it’s good to know. Be especially careful with wet ceilings. They could be much weaker than you think, and the last thing we want is for a roof to collapse on you!

Final Steps

The real work won’t start until the restoration company gets there. Professionals, such as SERVPRO, possess the equipment needed to do real water extraction and repair. Part of this process will involve installing certain equipment, be it professional-grade dehumidifiers and whatnot.

When this occurs, make sure you follow the directions given to you. Usually, the professionals will ask you to keep their equipment running for a while. Make sure you stick to their schedule and do not arbitrarily turn off their equipment. This could negatively affect the drying process and make things worse.

The last thing the professionals will do is give you preventative maintenance tips. It is recommended that you follow through on these steps to insure that your home and belongings return to their former state. It can make the difference between whether or not your home ever suffers unneeded water damage again!

Saving Personnel Belongings From Water Damage

12/19/2017 (Permalink)

These cabinets are wrapped to keep the water from above from leaking unto and ruining the cabinets.

One of the most common topics after a client suffers water damage, is how and what they can save from water damage.  Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this question. Every water damage is unique in some sense, so what can be saved is really on a case by case basis. However, here are some guidelines that you can use to make the best decision possible.

What Type of Water Damage

Determining whether the water that damaged your personal belongings is clean or contaminated will be a big factor in whether or not it can be salvaged. Obviously, if you are dealing with clean water, the chances of you being able to save some of your belongings is higher.  Even though it may be possible to restore something that is damaged by contaminated water, it is more than likely not worth the health risk that it may bring.

Porous vs Non Porous Materials

Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, and paper are very good at retaining water. This also means it increases the chance of other dangers like mold growth, and damage beyond repair. This is not always the case and if handled quickly and properly, many times these items can be saved as well. On the other hand, porous materials like marble, metal, and porcelain - among others - usually have no problem being restored. Since there is really nothing for bacteria and mold to root itself in, a simple cleaning is usually no problem.

The Amount of Time the Water Saturated

Another factor that will come into the equation of determining what can and cannot be saved is how long the materials have been wet for. The longer an item sits in water, the deeper it can penetrate. As you can imagine, this makes it increasingly more difficult to bring it back to its normal state. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a bit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them.

Factor in the Replacement Cost

Water damage restoration of personal belongings is no different than any other type of repair. You will always want to evaluate how much it is going to cost to repair something versus simply replacing it. Is the item you want to save really worth paying a professional to do work on it? Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not.

You should also take into account that paying for restoration does not guarantee your item will be returned to its original state. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace the item anyways.

If you are unsure about whether or not one of your items could be salvaged, it is best that you get it analyzed by a professional. If you hire a water damage restoration company to handle a dry out of your property, they will be able to assist you in assessing damage to your personal belongings as well. To speak to a professional water restoration representative at SERVPRO, contact them today.  They are always there to help.  954-725-6400

Identifying Water Damage In Your Home

12/1/2017 (Permalink)

As you can see the water damage on the ceiling has come from the roof.

It is important to understand the dangers of water damage to your home. Flooding can be caused by a variety of things from natural disasters to dishwasher leaks or washing machine leaks. Regardless of how a water damage situation occurs, handing the situation in a timely manner is the key to prevent serious destruction to your home.

The initial step in preventing this type of harm to your home is in the recognition of water damage in the first place. In some cases, water damage is quite obvious and easy to spot. In other cases, however, water in your home is rather subtle and may begin to cause damage before it is even recognized. As such, look out for the following signs of water damage in your home:

• Look for stains on the walls, ceilings, and window/door frames
• Check drywall for cracks
• Look at the floors for buckling or warping as well as dark spots on wood floors
• Feel around for damp carpeting
• Smell for odors of dampness or mold/musk
• Check areas where paint is peeling
• Look out for mold spores which often appear as discoloration
• Check around the pipes in the bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry room for leaks or water stains
• Monitor the home’s exterior looking for damaged roofing and standing water outside of the home – the home should be the highest point of your property as the ground should appear downward from the house

Most Common Signs of Water Damage

11/27/2017 (Permalink)

This photo shows the carpet soaked from a water loss.

Water damage in a home can be a serious problem if not detected early. Unfortunately, loose water inside of a house can flow virtually anywhere it wants to and thus presents a potential issue for homeowners who are unaware of its existence. Contrary to popular belief, a leaky or busted pipe is not always easy to notice, especially when water is moving slowly. The ability to recognize the most common signs of water damage is critical to identifying the problem before it becomes a costly, major headache. While water damage repair and restoration can fix almost any losses, protecting your home or business from water damage by spotting the signs early is extremely important.

Things like flood damage or a toilet overflow show water damage in a property clearly. However, some of the most damaging issues come from the seemingly undetectable leaks. The following are the most common signs of water damage:

1. Moisture in carpet or other flooring
2. Painted walls with raised lines or wallpaper that begins to peel
3. Dark grouting around floor tiles
4. Separation between trim or baseboards from the wall
5. Stains on ceilings that look like rust or watermarks
6. Mold spore growth on walls or ceilings
7. A musty odor in particular spots in the home
8. Higher water bills
9. Buckling of wood floors
10. Changes in the “typical” sounds of the plumbing system

From the walls to the floors, water damage usually shows itself in one way or another. Being aware of the common signs of water damage can help homeowners to save money and the integrity of the home’s structure. If you think that your home is showing some of the above signs, contact us today to learn more about our water damage repair and restoration services!

24 Hour Water Emergency Services

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

This is a containment barrier built by our excellent guys in the field

The Benefit of Powerful, Effective Equipment 

The goal of services for residential water damage in East Davie/Cooper City is to dry the home up as soon as possible, and you may only have a mop or perhaps a wet vacuum that can be used to soak up some of the moisture in the home. This, however, is not the most effective way to dry up the mess. Professional services from SERVPRO utilize powerful equipment to extract the water from the home so that the surfaces are dry. Besides, the moisture must be removed from the air, and powerful fans can be brought into the home to thoroughly dry out the space. Monitors can be used to track the progress so that the fans and dehumidifiers remain on until the humidity level has been restored to normal. This ensures that all signs of moisture are removed from the home before the repair and restoration work begins.

The Need for Fast Results

Any time water or high levels of humidity are in the home, there is a concern that mold growth may develop. Humidity and moisture should be removed from the home as soon as possible to decrease this risk. Through your efforts to remove water from your home, it may take more time to accomplish the same results, and there is a possibility that you may not be able to remove all of the humidity for several weeks or longer. This is the time when mold growth may begin, which could result in the need for mold remediation services. This can increase the time and expense associated with repairing the home after residential water damage in East Davie/Cooper City.

You may be able to repair the residential water damage in East Davie/Cooper City on your own, but this is not advisable. It is best to enjoy the fast, thorough response of a skilled water damage restoration team. SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City is the company to contact when you are dealing with water damage in your East Davie/Cooper City-area home. We are locally owned and operated, so we can provide you with the fast response that the situation calls for. To request an appointment with our team, contact us today at (954) 741-4321.

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper is always here to help 24/7!

Faster to any Disaster

11/17/2017 (Permalink)

This is a photo of our equipment set up at a water loss almost immediately

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City 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.  SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (954)741-4321

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 East Davie/Cooper City

SERVPRO of East Davie/Cooper City 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.