Clean up a Water Heater

6/30/2022 (Permalink)

How To Clean Up a Broken Water Heater

Having a broken water heater in Meridian can be dangerous on many levels. While the most obvious threat from a leaking water heater is water damage, the liquid could come into contact with power outlets if not detected quickly, adding fire and electrical hazards to the list of possible dangers. Because they are typically hidden in low-traffic areas of the home, a failed water heater may not be detected for several days, which causes problems to multiply. When dealing with water heater overflow, follow these clean-up procedures to make the process go smoothly.

1. Shut off the water source. If you do not turn off your water while you clean up, not only will it be useless trying to mop up the liquid, it also increases the risk that the water comes in contact with an electrical source. For safety reasons, this should always be the first step.

2. Clean up the water. For small areas, you can probably mop up water with old towels. If your leaking water heater went undetected for a while, you may have a more substantial mess that may require a sump pump or a trash pump.

3. Assess secondary damage. Because mold and bacteria grow best in warm, damp places, a broken water heater can lead to more secondary damage than many other reasons for flooding. The warm water creates an environment that favors mold growth, so it is important to carefully expect any flooring or sheetrock the water came in contact with.

4. Treat mold and disinfect the area. Use an antifungal treatment to remove any existing mold, and then use a disinfectant to thoroughly cleanse the area. Scrubbing the affected spot with bleach and clean water may discourage mold to grow.

Cleaning up from a leaking water heater in your Lauderdale County home goes beyond simply mopping up the water. Remember to thoroughly clean and disinfect any area affected by your broken water heater.

Business' Plans for Water Damages

6/29/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding and other natural disasters can cause businesses in East Mississippi , to shut down for good. However, implementing plans to deal with certain situations, such as a broken pipe and getting water restoration professionals quickly, can help your company survive. This is known as a business interruption plan, and there are several different steps to help you develop it.

1. Determine Your Risks

When calculating the risks that could interrupt your operations, examine both environmental and human-caused risks, such as flooding and a running faucet. Consider which ones you can prevent and the unavoidable ones. Once you have identified them, you should delve deeper into each hazard. Then, rank your disasters based on their likelihood of occurring and their severity.

2. Calculate the Costs

Once you have analyzed all potential risks, calculate the costs they would bring. For example, flooding could cause lost income, extra expenses, contractual penalties, and business closure.

3. Read Your Insurance Contract

The next step is to examine your insurance policy. Interruption insurance can be filed for when there is property damage or a government shutdown that prohibits your business from operating. These funds are available during the period of restoration. However, each policy can differ, so you must closely examine yours to understand any restrictions, such as exclusions, waiting periods, and coverage limits.

4. Implement Prevention Strategies

There are several strategies that you can develop to reduce your interruption. This includes preventing risks, deterring criminal activity, and planning to mitigate unpreventable hazards.

5. Create Communication Plans

Having a communication plan is the best way to keep customers and employees informed about your business's status during a disaster. A good plan will include a command chain, scripted messages, and open communication channels.
Taking these steps helps minimize the interruption of your business from large water damage and other disasters. This is the basis for creating a business interruption plan.

Secondary Water Damage

6/28/2022 (Permalink)

Following a flood or a considerable water leak in your home in Lauderdale county or surrounding areas you may be faced with costly repairs due to secondary damage. This damage is directly related to high humidity in the home. Inclement weather, inefficient siding and more can expose your home to leaking and subsequent humidity. Black mold, for example, can become a pressing concern if the water damage is not fully managed.

What Is Secondary Damage?

After water has breached your home, moisture can seep beneath the flooring or behind the walls and promote humidity in those places. High humidity levels can cause unwelcome dampness to linger and create unexposed mold problems.

How Does Leaking Water Act As a Trigger?

Water leaks, leading to humidity, can happen in a few different ways:

• Slow leaks through unsealed windows
• Steadily malfunctioning appliances
• Floods or sewer backups
  

Slower, long-term leaks have similar effects to secondary damage in that both are difficult to spot and, as a result, may have extended lengths of time to do damage.

What Should You Do After You Notice a Leak?

Some people mistakenly believe that all they have to do following a flood or leak is clean up standing water. The problem with this is that even when the water appears to be gone in your home, significant humidity levels can cause the perfect conditions for black mold and bacteria to thrive. Therefore, it is essential to enlist the help of a reliable water removal specialist in East Brainerd, TN. These professionals possess the equipment to effectively dry the area. They also have the experience to know when the problem is truly solved.

There are numerous ways that you can eliminate black mold concerns following a flood or leak. With a quick response and water removal specialists at the ready, you can enjoy peace of mind in a mold-free home.

Water Detection and Removal Equipment

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

Natural flood, pipe leaks, sewer backup, washer overflow, toilet problems, and pump failure can wreak water havoc to your home in East Mississippi. You may feel like you have lost all control of your home, and it can only get worse if you hire a company that rips and tears your walls, furniture, carpet, and other personal belongings out of its place. This process can leave you clutching your chest in agony as well as a hole in your wallet.

Water removal in Meridian and surrounding counties is not an easy task. Homeowners often try to clean the water problems without consulting the experts, causing more damage and problems. Some components are involved in water damage.  It's not something that a beginner should consider tackling. You would need to replace everything that was involved in the water damage immediately. If you ignore this process, then mold, mildew, fungus, and bacteria can grow in your house. Hiring a water restoration company is a smart decision because they have all the necessary tools to take out extra water to prevent further damage. Plus, a thorough cleaning and drying process would require experienced water damage restoration services.

A SERVPRO technician would contact you to arrange a service within one hour of notice that water damage has occurred. Within four hours, uniformed, trained techs would be on-site to start the mitigation service, a fast-acting method of extracting water out of the area. These technicians would use advanced technology such as moisture sensors, moisture meters, and Thermohygrometers to detect moisture in the air. This equipment helps them determine the best drying process that would get the job done.

SERVPRO has other high-tech equipment such as extractors to help remove water from carpets and other flooring material. Air movers would enhance evaporation to reduce drying time. Dehumidifiers would extract water vapor from the air. After removing all the water, they would use deodorizer equipment such as thermal foggers to neutralize any odor caused by the water damage.  Afterward, these technicians would perform a thorough walk-through with you to ensure that you are delighted with the service.

Taking Care of Water Removal

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

In a society reliant on electrical appliances, we tend to expect them to work without fail. However, water removal may prove necessary when a faulty washing machine hose gives way and covers your floor with water. It can be stressful to consider taking on a cleanup task on your own, as missed spots can easily lead to mold growth or structural damage.

When appliance failures result in needing water removal, SERVPRO of Meridian has the tools necessary to clean, dry, and deodorize your home while preserving your possessions.

When water affects porous surfaces such as carpet, it's vital to thoroughly extract moisture that has been absorbed quickly to preserve carpet, padding, and the subflooring underneath. Suppose water from your laundry room has reached your carpet. In this case, we can use air movers and dehumidifiers both above and underneath flooring to address moisture absorbed by the carpet. Fast-drying, in conjunction with EPA-registered antimicrobial cleaner, is key to preserving your carpet and shielding it from potential mold growth.

SERVPRO of Meridian can preserve hardwood affected by water. Drying mats with suction devices attached can be placed on the ground level to accelerate moisture evaporation. This process is often aided by plastic sheeting acting as a conduit for directing moist air out of your home. SERVPRO technicians often use a 6-millimeter thick plastic or poly sheeting that, when taped down, isolates moist air for easy collection. This drying method helps collect water from hardwood flooring and plywood subflooring. Additionally, it keeps dehumidifiers from being overwhelmed while they help dry other surfaces. In some cases, dehumidifiers may also be operating inside the plastic tenting to extract moisture.

If you need our services  to clean up your disaster, call SERVPRO of Meridian today 601-693-7300

Indoor Flooding

7/28/2021 (Permalink)

So, What Causes Indoor Flooding?

Water damage usually has one major leading cause: indoor flooding. Some of the most common causes of indoor flooding are: 

• Leaky or Broken Pipes: The most obvious cause of indoor flooding is leaky or broken water pipes. Pipes can burst from changes in water pressure or even a faulty setup, but regardless of the cause, pipe problems often cause a ton of damage. Leaky pipes are usually a warning sign of more problems to come. Hidden floods caused by broken pipes in your walls can even create the perfect environment for microbial growth.
• Faulty Washing Machine Hose: The most common problem with watching machines are faulty hoses. A leak in your intake hose can worsen over time and can cause flooding in your home. 
• Water Heaters: Even a small leak in your water heater can cause major flooding due to its endless flow of water. Make sure to inspect your water heater on a regular basis, keeping up with maintenance to ensure it doesn’t spring a leak.
• Clogged Sewer or Drain Lines: The flow of water to and from your house can be disrupted when you have clogged sewer or drain lines. Some clogs might be benign, allowing for a slow drain that is merely an inconvenience. But those clogs can get worse over time. The clog can cause your sinks, toilets, and showers to overflow with water, resulting in major damage. This can even include backed-up sewage, causing a hazardous environment for anyone or anything that comes in contact with the affected water. 

If you find flooding inside your home, call us and we will be there to help.

Spring Storms Tips

4/26/2021 (Permalink)

Spring season is coming!

As we prepare to enter into the spring season, it’s important to note what we should be looking for to help minimize the chances of water damage affecting our homes. We when see the transition of seasons to such as spring and fall bring unpredictable weather patterns and this year will be no different. Springtime in the East Mississippi area is known for storms and lightning shows. These storms often cause wind and water damage. While we can’t control the weather, we can do our best to ensure our homes are properly prepared for whatever happens. Here are a few things to inspect before the storms hit: 

• Basement pumps- A working sump pump is crucial for helping to prevent water accumulation in your basement. Consider installing one with an alarm that warns when there is any water accumulation so you can attend to it quickly and prevent secondary water damage.
• Debris removal- Make sure to clear debris from your gutters, downspouts, and window wells. This allows water to flow away from your home freely instead of flowing back in because of debris buildup.
• Landscaping- This is an important and often overlooked step. Protruding branches and rotten trees often cause the most damage to homes and structures once strong winds and rain take place. The best way to prevent this is by trimming branches and clearing away trees that are too close to your home.

 These are only a few things to keep in mind to prepare for the spring storms coming our way. If water damage does occur as a result of storms, call SERVPRO of Meridian to assist with the restoration and prevent secondary water damage such as mold growth.

Complete Water Damage Restoration

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

East Mississippi Homeowners Can Rely on SERVPRO for Complete Water Damage Restoration

Water damage can strike at any time. From natural disasters to plumbing issues, water damage may cost you lots of money. It can cost you even more without a reputable company that you can trust. When you need someone to repair your leaky roof, flooded workshop, or even remove mold, use these tips to find a company that will help you get back on track.

Where to Start
If you have water damage at your residence, you can do these simple things to ensure a positive result when dealing with water damage restoration professionals. Be sure to communicate with your insurance company immediately. Ask them about your policy coverage and requirements that they have on filing a claim. Ask your agent if they work with particular water damage restoration companies. SERVPRO of Meridian is a preferred vendor for numerous insurance and property management companies. In the meantime, use fans and dehumidifiers to start drying them out. 

Find a Company You Trust
Before you select a water damage restoration professional or company, check on their work history and references. Remember your insurance agent or adjuster? References will help determine if the contractor is familiar with your particular water damage problem. A contractor can easily give you names and phone numbers of at least three clients with projects like yours. Talk with each customer about how the project was done and whether it was completed on time.

Check Out Your Contractor
Determine if the contractor is insured. Don’t be afraid to ask for copies of current insurance certificates, so you don’t become liable for any injuries that transpire during the project. Reputable companies will carry personal liability, worker’s compensation, and property damage coverage. This is a sharp point to select SERVPRO--to rely on a Corporate Franchise, one of 1,800, that are ranked by "Entrepreneur" Magazine as a top 10 for seven consecutive years. Why look any further?

Get It in Writing
Develop a written contract with anyone you hire. It will need to be explicit about the work to be performed, techniques to be used, and the price of labor and materials. Additionally, it is a good idea to have a timeline that is agreed on by both parties.

SERVPRO of Meridian will provide the following as needed:
--CCIS--Contents Claim Inventory Service to inventory all water damaged items
--Service Authorization Form to begin work immediately to mitigate water damage
--Ongoing paperwork detailing the water removal and restoration process
--Written documentation of thorough drying down to normal moisture levels
--Final Walk-Thru to ensure your complete satisfaction with our efforts to restore your home to preloss condition "Like it never even happened."

Remember, you don’t have to feel pressured into making a quick decision. Although you may feel nervous about getting the water damage repaired, don’t act with haste. You could make temporary repairs while you check out the contractor and develop a written contract. You can trust the SERVPRO technicians to follow IICRC guidelines and surpass industry standards to restore your water damaged home.

SERVPRO of Meridian are Water Damage Specialists

8/18/2020 (Permalink)

We’re Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

SERVPRO of Meridian specializes in water damage restoration- the cornerstone of our business. We have extensive water damage restoration training, and our process emphasizes regular monitoring and documentation of the drying process from beginning to end. We are proud to serve our local communities. Call us 24/7 for prompt response time at 601-693-7300

You have probably heard of our SERVPRO ERPs (Emergency Ready Profiles). As we conduct ERPs in commercial buildings, we also add water and gas shut off tags to the appropriate shut offs. We add these tags as a helpful indication if you ever have an emergency in your home. For example, if a pipe bursts or a leak happens in your home or business, the first thought to cross your mind should be to turn off the water. 

Next step? Call SERVPRO of Meridian!

If the leak is from a sink or a toilet, it is easy to turn off the water for that line by turning the valve that is located beneath or beside the fixture. What if you're not sure where the leak is coming from? It could be a pipe behind your wall, under your home, or somewhere that is hard to locate. In this case, you should turn off the water to the whole house. This means locating the water main shutoff. Ask yourself this question, whether in your home or business. Do you know where the shutoff is located and could you locate it in the case of an emergency? If not, don't feel bad. Many people do not know where to locate their water and gas shut offs.

Typically, these shut offs lie on the exterior of the home or business around the perimeter of the building. Once you have found the shutoff, make sure that all members of your household know where it is. This is exactly why we tag these main shut offs during the creation of an ERP. The quicker you are able to turn off the water, the less damage is caused. 

If you experience water damage in your home, whether from a busted pipe, leaky roof, or natural occurrence, you can give SERVPRO of Meridian a call at 601-693-7300. We are always here to help!

Are Your Appliances Causing Water Damages?

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

Think about the last time your appliances were moved or inspected

Many of us don’t think about the household appliances that we use every single day. For most, they probably become a passing thought about how much wear and tear they are receiving. Most of the appliances we use to make our everyday lives easier to utilize water. This means they are prone to leaks at some point if they are not caught early on.  Water damage can sit for ages before you as a homeowner realize. This is why regular inspections are important for prevention.

Inspect These Appliances for Leaks Often

• Hot Water Heater
• The lifetime of a hot water heater will typically span 10 to 15 years, but leaks can start much earlier than this. The seals and pipes connected to the hot water heater can often break down, so keeping an eye out for any accumulation both during and after use is a smart move.
• Refrigerator
• The rarity with which refrigerators are moved can lead to secret water damage that festers for ages before it is brought to light. A refrigerator’s water lines are typically made from a soft plastic that can easily fail, so checking for leaks behind and under the fridge as part of your annual home maintenance is wise.
• Dishwasher
• A dishwasher’s tubing is just as problematic as a refrigerator, but is even more isolated and utilizes far more water. Additionally, homeowner’s insurance often does not cover water damage caused by older models of dishwashers, so regular checks are extremely important to keep up with.
• Washing Machine
• Washing machine hoses are some of the most common sources of leaks. Because they are notorious for this, it is recommended that they are inspected at least once a month by homeowners so you can be sure no issues have arisen. In addition to these regular checks, they should be fully replaced every five years in order to prevent hidden deterioration.
• Air Conditioner
• The drain in your HVAC unit is designed to keep condensation from pooling in and around the unit, but if this drain malfunctions, water damage can quickly be caused. Reference your manufacturer’s manual to determine how often your unit should be inspected and serviced—having a professional technician evaluate your machine is the best defense against HVAC-created water damage.

Water Equipment SERVPRO of Meridian Uses.

7/2/2020 (Permalink)

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. SERVPRO of Meridian has the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages occur. The proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing the damage expense during a fire or water loss. When time matters, technology, and equipment must be counted on to perform properly. Our team will answer your call with fast action and a full arsenal of drying equipment. Here are a few of the tools used by our SERVPRO of Meridian technicians. Moisture Sensors - Used to detect moisture in carpets, baseboards, and walls. Moisture Meters - Used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate readings, allowing SERVPRO of Meridian to monitor the drying process. Thermohygrometers - Measure temperature and relative humidity. When armed with this information, we 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 - 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 to deodorize structures, garments, automobiles and other places where cleaning cannot reach. Call SERVPRO of Meridian  we have the training and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 601-693-7300

Standing Water Issues

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

When floodwater intrudes into your home or commercial business it can cause what is called "standing water". This can be a dangerous thing if not respected. Many times, standing water must be dealt with that can sometimes take up to 10 or 11 days to completely disappear unless it is able to be mitigated immediately. There are some precautionary measures to take into consideration when dealing with standing water. SERVPRO of Meridian took some time to compile the ones we felt were the most important.

Standing Water are not natural swimming pools

• Sewage, debris, and other unpleasant things can be in the standing water leftovers
• Swimming, wading, or rafting can make you sick
• Don’t drink the water
• Water conducts electricity. Underground power lines can give you a dangerous shock

Standing Water vs. Animals:

• Snakes and other animals may get into your building. Wear work boots and heavy gloves when you clean up
• Some animals might find your office a cozy place to live
• If tap water is unsafe to drink, it is unsafe for your pets

If you find yourself dealing with standing water of any kind, SERVPRO of Meridian is here to help make it “Like it never even happened."  Call us at 601-693-7300 24/7/365!

Local Clinic Flooded

12/4/2019 (Permalink)

A water damage in a commercial building is scary and frightening for owners, but it doesn’t have to be with a quick response from your local SERVPRO. 

On a Monday morning, employees of a local clinic showed up to work and saw the whole building was covered in water, the clinic knew to call SERVPRO.  SERVPRO of Meridian was on site with-in thirty minutes and started extracting water from carpet and tile.  The administrators and insurance adjusters were very concerned about the carpet and did not want to replace it.  SERVPRO of Meridian used weighted extraction to ensure maximum water removal was achieved.  After three days of drying, the carpet was returned to its former condition. 

If your business finds a water damage call SERVPRO of MERIDIAN 24/7 at 601-693-7300

Categories of Water

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water Category

When you have a water damage, you will probably hear SERVPRO of Meridian’s technicians, and insurance companies talking about the category of water.  The kind of water in a water damage can affect the drying process.  Below is a little info about each category of water:

Category 1

Category 1 is generally clean water, that comes from supply lines, or tub/ sink overflows, rain water or melting snow.  Category 1 water doesn’t usually pose a risk from exposure.

Category 2

Category 2 is the next category and is significantly more contaminated that Category 1. Category 2 can cause sickness or discomfort if it comes in contact with human skin.  Category 2 water is usually from overflowing washing machines, dishwashers, or any kinds of water that chemicals could have gotten into.  Wit

Category 3

Category 3 is extremely contaminated water that generally comes from sewage, flood waters, or any kind of biological contaminates getting into water.   Extreme safety precautions are needed when working with Category 3 water damages.

Its important to note that a unless water mitigation is started as quickly as possible it is possible for a Category 1 to go to a Category 3 very quickly.  If you have any water damage it is important to call a mitigation specialist as quickly as possible. 

SERVPRO of Meridian is always available to help, call us at 601-693-7300

Saturday Morning Water Damage

7/3/2019 (Permalink)

When a local homeowner woke up on a Saturday morning to 3 inches of water in her home, she called SERVPRO of Meridian to make it “Like it never even happened.”  Once our crew received the call they imminently mobilized and headed out to start extracting water from 15 rooms.  SERVPRO of Meridian’s technician spend Saturday extracting water, removing carpet and pad, and placing drying equipment Water damages do not always happen Monday thru Friday 8-5, which is why SERVPRO of Meridian is available24/7 for any disaster.   Our team of IICRC certified technicians are always on standby for any disaster.  At SERVPRO of Meridian our team of technicians understand the importance of arriving fast to any water damage. 

If you have a water damage call SERVPRO of Meridian any time to start mitigation services.

SERVPRO of Meridian is always here to help!

7/2/2019 (Permalink)

A water damage does not normally happen during business hours, that is why SERVPRO of Meridian is available 24 hours a day for any water emergency.   Any delay in drying can cause extreme property damage.    During one of the most stressful times a friendly, knowledgeable, highly trained SERVPRO professional will be able to get help dispatched to your property immediately.   When you call SERVPRO of Meridian, you may feel overwhelmed with the questions our technician will ask, but they are essential to help determine the scope of damage, how many, and what kind of equipment will be needed at your property.

A few simple questions that our technician might ask are:

• What is your name, address, and phone number?
• When did the water damage happen, or when did you find the water?
• How many rooms are affected?
• Where did the water come from?
• What kind of floors are in the affected areas?
• Do you still have power to the property?
• Is the roof still intact?
• Have you contacted your insurance provider, and do you have your insurance information ready?

SERVPRO of Meridian has a technician available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year!  Call us anytime with you water damages at 601-693-7300

Reliable Commercial Water Damage Restoration Company

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

Whether office, warehouse, restaurant, school, or other commercial building, the urgency to get back to business after a water damage is stressful. The fastest way to servicing your customers and assuring your employees of their job security is to hire a reliable commercial water damage restoration company. SERVPRO of Meridian understands the first critical steps to water damage restoration is responding quickly. The longer your business is exposed to excess moisture, the more extensive the water damage will be. Water degrades furniture, weakens structures, and can permanently damage electrical items such as computers and printers. Calling on a water damage restoration company with a fast response time such as  SERVPRO of Meridian will give you the best chances of saving the things you need to service your customers. Our technicians will arrive to your business quickly, ready to assess the damage with meters detecting moisture levels. If necessary, standing water will be removed using powerful pumps mounted on SERVPRO of Meridian's familiar bright green vans. Water can cause warping of wood and cause carpeting to deteriorate. The possibility of floors being salvaged is increased when water is extracted in less than 24 hours from primary exposure, and then through quick and efficient drying.
 
When you need a reliable commercial water damage restoration company, call on SERVPRO of Meridian. Faster to any size disaster, we here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week!

Understanding Water Types

6/25/2018 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers water damage, understanding what type of water you are dealing with is critical to ensuring proper cleanup. There are three types of water. Clean water is water from a broken pipe, or other water source; rainwater is also considered clean. The term gray water is used to classify slightly contaminated water. Clean water becomes grat water when it is left untreated allowing bacteria and other contaminants to begin growing, making the water hazardous. Black water is highly contaminated and filled with fungi, bacteria, chemicals, and more. Black water is typically caused by sewage damage, flooding or any type of natural disaster. Black water should always be handled by trained professionals. When you have water damage, don't leave your property to chance. Call SERVPRO of Meridian! Consider taking the following precautions to help minimize damage or prevent further damage while waiting for help to arrive.

Damage from Clean Water

• Shut off the water source if possible or contact a qualified professional to do so.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building if access to the power distribution panel is safe from potential electric shock. Do not enter rooms with standing was, as electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushion to allow more even drying.
• Move any paintings, art objects, computers, documents, and other valuable items that may be sensitive to moisture to a safe place.
• Do not leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors as they may cause staining.
• Do not use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water as there is potential for electrical shock or causing damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet; do not enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Damage from Contaminated Water

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage. Wash your hands thoroughly if you come in contact with contaminated water.
• Do not walk through contaminated areas, as you could spread damage to unaffected areas.
• Do not turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility -of spreading contaminated air.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow could spread contamination.
• Discard any food and/or products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

If you have any further questions and need help with the restoration process please contact SERVPRO of Meridian at (601)693-7300. We are here 24/7 to attend to your emergency services. We make disaster "Like it never even happened."

Causes of Water Damage to Commercial Buildings

5/10/2018 (Permalink)

While it's true that commercial water damage is often the result of floods and water that stems from weather events and storms,  severe weather isn't the only cause of water damage to your business. Here are some of the typical causes of water damage to commercial buildings. 

1.  Malfunctioning sprinkler systems  Some older office and retail buildings still have outdated sprinkler systems that work in conjunction with fire protection systems. While such sprinklers can come in handy during a fire emergency, they can also cause commercial flood damage if they are faulty or in need of replacement. This could easily damage inventory and business assets.
2. Damaged appliances and equipment  This cause of commercial flood damage is more common in restaurants and catering facilities, as well as any business that has appliances and equipment that make use of water. If the appliance fails and sends water across your building, especially during late hours when no one is around, you may come back to work and face a water emergency.   
3. Broken pipes and plumbing  Just like in a residence, if the plumbing system in your workplace fails water damage could be the result.   
4. Backed up sewer lines  This is another cause of commercial water damage that often catches business owners by surprise. Should the sewer line to your building back up or become damaged, realize the potential dangers of contaminated Black Water which can cause health effects and ruin products and office furnishings.   

If your business has suffered commercial water damage, SERVPRO of Meridian will get you back up and running again. 

Give us a call at 601-693-7300.

Lauderdale and Surrounding Counties Dont Put Away Your Sweaters Just Yet!

2/2/2018 (Permalink)

That famous groundhog, Phil saw his shadow and apparently, we are getting 6 more weeks of winter!

Have you taken the additional steps to protect your home or business against the predicted additional colder weather?

Step 1) Winterize your A/C and Water Lines

Simply drain the water in any hoses and air conditioner pipes to prevent the cold weather from freezing it and causing the pipe to burst.  Also, make sure you do not have additional water collected inside of the equipment. This could damage the equipment and could also start a water damage.  Make sure to also turn off exterior water spigots and properly store away any window A/C units to prevent cold drafts from entering.

 Step 2) Turn down your water heater

Typically, a water heater is set to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, but most households don’t need that much steam. By lowing the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit you are not only reducing water heating cost but also preventing excess pressure on the pipes.

 Step 3) Using Caulking and Weather-stripping

This can be especially helpful when protecting your windows and doors from weather related water damage which can then lead to mold. Keep close attention to corners and where pipes or wires exit to prevent damage.

 Step 4) Insulate your pipes

This can help prevent pipes from bursting and can also be a money saver for paying less for hot water. You can find the needed insulation at most hardware stores in the area. Ideally, you want to choose the insulation with the highest heat-blocking power.

Step 5) Seal your ducts

Get your duct work inspected to ensure that there is no issue and water is not creeping in. This can definitely go undetected for a long time and then you’ll have both water damage and mold on your hands!

In case your house does suffer from a water damage during the winter months, know that SERVPRO of Meridian is open 24/7 and can respond to losses all over Lauderdale, Clarke, Jasper, Newton, Kemper and Noxubee counties.

Freezing in the New Year

1/8/2018 (Permalink)

Be sure to insulate water pipes to prevent freezing. Otherwise, they'll be frozen much like this local fountain.

The new year started off with temperatures staying below freezing, causing pipes to burst all over the Meridian area.  Although our crews have been super busy responding to the numerous calls, this is our expertise! Faster to any size disaster, our crews bring the latest equipment and training to help make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

We understand if not addressed quickly, a burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property. So, it’s very important, if you have a pipe burst, call our office immediately at (601) 693-7300 and speak to Heather or Stacey. They will start off by gathering some information about your situation and then send a team over to start the restoration process.

What to Do if Your Pipe Burst

12/5/2017 (Permalink)

If you are unfortunate enough to have a burst pipe, follow these steps:

- Turn off your water supply at the main valve. Your main water valve can be located in a variety of places. If you have a home with a basement or crawlspace, it's probably located on an interior wall near the front of the house. In this case, it is most likely hiding in plain sight. If your home was built on a slab, the valve might be located near the hot water heater or inside your garage. It may also be located in an underground cement box near your front curb. If the burst pipe is a hot water line, make sure to also turn off the water valve at the top of your hot water heater.

- Once you have turned off the main water valve, call a plumber. - If your water meter is frozen, contact your local Water Department. 

- If your broken pipe has caused water damage to your home or business, call SERVPRO of Meridian to dry it out before more structural damage occurs,  that may require tearing out.

What to Expect from Your Water Damage Appointment

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Household water inundation from any source indoor plumbing leaks or outdoor flooding is a crisis that demands your immediate attention and the speedy response from a qualified water damage recovery services.

SERVPRO of Meridian has trained recovery crews ready to roll. Once you make the call, a team effort swings into action to restore your house and your life "Like it never even happened." Here's what to expect from an appointment with an experienced water damage specialist:

• You'll get a full explanation of what's needed to restore your home (and why) as well as a firm estimate in writing. The contractor will also commit to a firm timeline for completion. The specialist will explain the benefits of options such as Direct Billing to your insurance company to reduce the amount of paperwork.
• Work can begin immediately on a 24/7/365 basis. Specialists certified by the IICRC (Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification) will arrive fully equipped to confront and resolve any water damage issue - and they've seen and handled them all. In most cases, an experienced water damage team can complete the recovery process in as little as three days.
• Cutting-edge technology and advanced techniques will be utilized to achieve recovery results that meet IICRC criteria - the gold standard for water damage recovery services worldwide. Dismantling and removal of household components will be kept to an absolute minimum.
• Water damage recovery crews are experienced working inside a residential environment. They are trained to minimize disruption to your household routine and respect your property and privacy.

For an appointment with a trained water damage specialist ready to answer your concerns, contact SERVPRO of Meridian today.

How to Avoid Bursting Pipes this Winter

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Wrap outside faucets to avoid bursting pipes.

SERVPRO of Meridian is here to help in case of a pipe that bursts or lines that freeze. Our crews are ready 24/7! 

7 Helpful Tips to Avoid Bursting Pipes this Winter

Outdoor Tips:

• Wrap outside faucets.
• Caulk around pipes where they enter the house.
• Disconnect garden hoses.
• Drain in-ground sprinkler systems

Indoor Tips:

• Let a stream of water run if the temperature dips below freezing.
• Open cupboard doors in the kitchen and bathrooms. 
• Shut off and drain your water system if you are leaving the house for several days

No matter how big or small, SERVPRO of Meridian handles them all!

Give us a call at (601) 693-7300!

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup in the Meridian Surrounding Areas

11/29/2017 (Permalink)

Although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall, your Meridian area basement can flood at any time. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including:

• A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
• Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
• Storm sewer backup
• Sanitary sewer backup
• Foundation drainage failure
• Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
• And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call and speak to one of our professionals at SERVPRO of Meridian (601) 693-7300

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home's structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home's integrity. It's worth making a call to SERVPRO of Meridian and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals. 

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are available 24/7
• We're a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We bill the Insurance directly-meaning one less thing for you to worry about
• Our technicians are highly trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration standards
• Advanced inspection and extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call us Today-We're Ready to Help

SERVPRO of Meridian (601) 693-7300

Meridian and Surrounding Area Residents: 24/7 Emergency Water Damage Services

7/14/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Meridian's office staff is always glad to assist you anytime!

SERVPRO of Meridian is available 24 hours a day for emergency water damage services.  When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial.  A delay in dealing with the water damage can greatly impact the severity of the water damage.

We answer the phone 24 hours a day ready to help!

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, upset and vulnerable.  You will need an expert to guide you through this crisis.  SERVPRO of Meridian has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time.

What to Expect

When you call us we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency.  These questions will help us determine the scope of the damage, the type and quantity of equipment and resources that may be required, including how many trained SERVPRO professionals will be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask:

• Your Name and Contact Information
• The Address of the Water Damage
• When did the Water Damage Occur
• What caused the Water Damage
• How many Rooms are affected
• The Flooring Type of the affected Rooms
• Is there Electricity Available
• Your Insurance Information (if applicable)

Call us now at 601-693-7300 and we will be glad to assist you anytime!

We are here to help 24/7!