Protecting Your Home and Business from Water Intrusion During Heavy Rainfa

7/17/2024 (Permalink)

Upscale Home in the Rain

Living in Cobb County and Atlanta, GA, means enjoying the charm and beauty of the Atlanta Area, but it also means being prepared for heavy rainfall and the potential for water intrusion. Water damage can be costly and disruptive, so taking preventative measures is essential. Here are some practical tips from SERVPRO® to help home and business owners safeguard their properties against water intrusion during heavy rainfall.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

One of the most effective ways to prevent water intrusion is through regular maintenance and inspections. Ensure that your roof, gutters, and downspouts are in good condition and free from debris. Clean your gutters at least twice a year, especially before the rainy season, to ensure they can effectively channel water away from your property. Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles and repair them promptly to prevent leaks.

Seal Cracks and Gaps

Water can find its way into your home or business through even the smallest cracks and gaps. Inspect the exterior of your property, including walls, windows, and doors, for any openings. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these gaps, paying special attention to areas around windows and doors where water is most likely to penetrate. For larger cracks in your foundation or walls, consider consulting a professional for repairs.

Install and Maintain Sump Pumps

A sump pump is a valuable tool in preventing basement flooding during heavy rainfall. Ensure that your sump pump is in good working condition and test it regularly. If you don’t already have a sump pump, consider installing one, especially if your property is prone to flooding. Additionally, a battery backup system can provide peace of mind, ensuring the pump works even during a power outage.

Landscape for Drainage

Proper landscaping can significantly impact how water flows around your property. Ensure that the ground slopes away from your home or business to direct water away from the foundation. Avoid planting shrubs or trees too close to the building, as their roots can create pathways for water to enter. Consider installing a French drain or other drainage systems to manage excess water effectively.

Maintain Your Plumbing System

Regular maintenance of your plumbing system can help prevent water damage caused by leaks and burst pipes. Inspect your pipes for signs of wear and tear, and replace any damaged sections. Ensure that all water supply lines are properly insulated, especially those located in unheated areas, to prevent freezing and bursting during colder months. Consider installing a leak detection system that can alert you to potential issues before they become major problems.

Install Flood Barriers and Sandbags

During periods of heavy rainfall, temporary flood barriers and sandbags can provide an extra layer of protection. Place sandbags around doors and low-lying areas to create a barrier against rising water. Temporary flood barriers can also be used to direct water away from vulnerable areas, such as basement windows and entryways.

Check and Maintain Appliances

Water heaters, washing machines, and dishwashers are common sources of water leaks. Regularly inspect these appliances for signs of leaks and ensure that hoses and connections are secure. Replace old or damaged hoses with high-quality, burst-resistant ones to reduce the risk of leaks. Installing a water leak detection device near these appliances can provide early warning of potential issues.

Create an Emergency Plan

Despite taking all the necessary precautions, it's essential to be prepared for the possibility of water intrusion. Create an emergency plan that includes contact information for local emergency services, your insurance company, and a reliable water damage restoration company like SERVPRO. Ensure that all family members or employees know the plan and understand what to do in the event of water intrusion.

Conclusion

Preventing water intrusion during heavy rainfall requires a combination of regular maintenance, proper landscaping, and being prepared for emergencies. By taking these proactive steps, homeowners and business owners in Cobb County and Atlanta, GA, can protect their properties from the damaging effects of water and maintain a safe, dry environment. For expert assistance and peace of mind, contact SERVPRO of Southeast Cobb for all your water damage restoration needs.

Excellence in Plumbing: Adrienne Bennett

2/23/2024 (Permalink)

For decades, Adrienne Bennett has been shattering glass ceilings with her resilience and determination.

At SERVPRO of Southeast Cobb, our familiarity with reputable plumbers is extensive, but Adrienne Bennett's remarkable tale truly captivated our attention. Her expertise and dedication to her craft are not only impressive but also inspiring to us and the wider community. Bennett's remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and skill in the plumbing industry.

Black History Month at SERVPRO of Southeast Cobb Presents

Adrienne Bennett stands as a trailblazer in the field of plumbing, earning the distinction as the first African American woman to achieve the title of Master Plumber. Her remarkable journey is a testament to perseverance, breaking barriers, and defying stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated industry. With her pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication, Bennett shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for diversity and inclusion in the plumbing profession. Her story not only inspires future generations but also highlights the importance of representation and equal opportunities in all fields of work

Hardship Only Made Her Stronger

While Bennett initially harbored aspirations of pursuing a career in mechanical engineering rather than plumbing, her trajectory took an unexpected turn following a contentious racial run-in. At the age of 22, during a presidential election rally, she crossed paths with a recruiter from the Mechanical Contractors Association of Detroit who was actively seeking minority women for apprenticeships. It was through this encounter that Bennett was presented with the opportunity to join a federally sponsored program for Skilled Trades, ultimately redirecting her career path towards plumbing.

Excellence in The Field

Beginning her journey as an apprentice in 1981, Bennett swiftly ascended through the ranks, achieving Journeyman Plumber status by 1985 after accumulating the requisite hours and passing all necessary exams. Undeterred by barriers, she set her sights higher, making history in 1987 as the first African American to attain the esteemed title of Master Plumber. Over her illustrious 43-year career, Bennett has assumed various roles, including Project Manager, Plumbing Inspector, and Code Enforcement officer. Her latest milestone is the establishment of Benkari LLC in 2008, a contract plumbing company based in Michigan.

Qualities We All Strive For

Adrienne Bennett's journey as the lone woman and African American on the job site in the demanding field of plumbing speaks volumes about her resilience and determination. Enduring the challenges of a profession often regarded as physically demanding and unglamorous, Bennett's unwavering commitment and work ethic set her apart. In an environment where perseverance is paramount, she consistently surpassed expectations, tackling tasks that many would find arduous and unpleasant with unparalleled grit and tenacity. Despite being in the minority, Bennett's excellence was undeniable, earning her high praise not only from her instructor but also from satisfied customers who recognized her exceptional skills and dedication. Her ability to thrive in the face of adversity serves as a testament to her indomitable spirit and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Admiring Adrienne Bennett's tenacity, ingenuity, hard work, and unstoppable spirit, SERVPRO of Southeast Cobb is committed to emulating these qualities in our own endeavors. We are inspired by her example and motivated to uphold a standard of excellence in all aspects of our work, just as Bennett has demonstrated in her remarkable career.