Winter Storm Damage: 5 Tips to Prepare For a Winter Storm

9/14/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for storm restoration services!

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you recover your property after winter storm damages occur. 

As the fall season nears and winter quickly approaches, many homeowners begin preparing their homes for the cold weather. However, don't feel left out if you are unsure how to prepare your home for the winter. 

Every winter, many homeowners in Atlanta deal with winter storm damage, and there are always a few things they could have done to prevent the winter storm damage or minimize the amount of damage that the winter storm caused.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have put together this post today because we want to help you prepare your home for winter weather. We understand that winter storms can cause much damage, and we want to help keep your property safe. This blog post will discuss five ways to prepare for winter storm damage. So, without further ado, let's get started! 

What causes winter storm damage?

Winter storm damage can occur by several things, such as high winds, snow, ice, and sleet. All of these weather conditions can cause severe damage to your home or property.

The wind is often one of the biggest culprits of winter storm damage. High wind speeds can easily knock down trees or power lines and cause a lot of damage to your roof. Snow and ice can also cause much damage, especially if a lot is sitting on the roof. The weight of the snow or ice can cause roofs to collapse, and the ice can block your drain lines.

Five tips to prepare for winter storm damage

Preparing your property is the best way to avoid winter storm damage. Here are five tips to help you prepare for winter storm damage:

Tip 1. Make sure your roof is in good condition and repaired adequately if necessary. Before winter arrives, have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof and make any necessary repairs.

Tip 2. Trim trees around your home. Trimming trees will help to prevent branches from falling on your house or property during a winter storm.

Tip 3. Clear snow and ice off your roof regularly. The weight of the snow and ice can cause damage to your roof, so it is essential to clear it off regularly.

Tip 4. Install gutters and downspouts. Gutters and downspouts will help to prevent water damage to your home by directing the water away from your house.

Tip 5. Seal any cracks or gaps in your home. Sealing cracks will help to prevent cold air from coming into your home, and it will also help to prevent water damage.

What to do after your property is damaged during a winter storm?

Even the most prepared property owners can still experience winter storm damage. If your home or property has been damaged during a winter storm, the first thing you should do is contact a professional restoration company and your insurance company. After you contact these two entities, you should: 

• Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes
• Ensure you are getting an accurate insurance estimate
• Remove any debris left behind
• Start drying out any wet areas to prevent mold growth

By following these steps, you can help to ensure that your winter storm damage is minimized and that your home or property is repaired as quickly as possible.

SERVPRO of South Cobb can help you recover from winter storm damage!

We hope you enjoyed learning about the tips we recommend to help prepare for winter storm damage and now know what to do if winter storm damage does occur. If your home or property has been damaged during a winter storm, don't hesitate to contact the experts at SERVPRO of South Cobb. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb has handled hundreds of winter storm damage cases and can ensure you get the fairest and most accurate insurance estimate possible. Our expert technicians are also trained in the latest water damage mitigation techniques and can help you prevent further damage to your home.

We are available 24/7/365, so contact us when winter storm damage affects your home or property!

The Top 5 Causes of Summer Roof Damage and How to Prevent Them

6/8/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are always available for roof damage restoration.

Various factors can lead to summer roof damage, from severe weather conditions to poor maintenance.

Summer is a time when many people take vacations and enjoy the warm weather. However, summer can also be a time of trouble for your roof. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have seen it all when it comes to summer roof damage.

Your roof is constantly exposed to the elements during the summer months and needs to be maintained appropriately to avoid any storm damage. We put together this blog post so you can be aware of the top five causes of summer roof damage and how to prevent them. Make sure you read until the end so you can keep your roof in tip-top shape all summer long!

What are the top five causes of summer roof damage?

Summer roof damage is any damage that your roof sustains during the summer months. The top five causes of summer roof damage are:

1) Severe weather conditions

Summer storms can wreak havoc on your roof. High winds can cause shingles to blow off, trees to fall on your roof, and hail can damage your roof. All of these severe weather conditions can lead to summer roof damage.

2) Poor maintenance

Poor maintenance can lead to summer roof damage. Ensure you regularly inspect your roof for any signs of wear and have any repairs made as soon as possible.

3) Heat and sun

The heat and sun can cause summer roof damage. For example, the sun can fade and crack shingles, while the heat can cause asphalt shingles to become brittle and break.

4) Improper installation

If your roof is not installed correctly, it can lead to roof damage in the summer. Make sure you only hire a professional roofing contractor to install your roof. 

5) Poor ventilation

Poor ventilation can cause summer roof damage. When your attic is poorly ventilated, it can cause the temperature in your attic to rise, leading to shingles becoming warped and damaged.

What are some tips for keeping your roof in good condition all summer long?

Here are a few tips for keeping your roof in good condition all summer long:

• Inspect your roof regularly: Regular inspection is one of the best ways to prevent summer roof damage. First, look for any signs of damage, such as missing shingles, cracked shingles, or damaged gutters.
• Have any repairs made as soon as possible: If you find any damage to your roof, make the repairs as quickly as possible. The longer you wait to make repairs, the worse the damage will get.
• Hire a professional roofing contractor: When it comes to your roof, it's essential to hire a professional roofing contractor. A professional roofing contractor will be able to properly install and maintain your roof so you can avoid summer roof damage.

How can SERVPRO of South Cobb help you with summer roof damage?

If your roof is damaged during the summer, it's essential to have the repairs made as soon as possible. The longer you wait to make repairs, the worse the damage will get.

SERVPRO of South Cobb is a professional restoration contractor that knows how to handle summer roof damage. We have the experience and training to properly repair your roof so you can avoid any further damage.

We understand the importance of having your summer roof damage repaired quickly and efficiently, which is why we offer 24/hour emergency services. We will work around the clock to make sure your roof damage is repaired as soon as possible.

Don't hesitate to contact us today if you need assistance with roof damage this summer.

Top 3 Ways To Protect Windows From Hail Damage

4/27/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO when your windows have hail damage!

No window is safe from hail damage.

Every spring, the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb receive countless calls regarding hail damage to homes and businesses.

Nowadays, any area in the greater Atlanta region is prone to hail. Fortunately, there are many ways to protect your windows from hail damage. The following blog post will share three of the most popular and effective ways to protect your windows from hail damage.

You will want to ensure you read to the end to find out how we can help you with your hail damage claim!

What is window hail damage?

Window hail damage is a type of damage that can occur due to hail stones striking a window. The impact of the hailstones can cause the glass in the window to shatter, which can lead to severe problems if someone is standing near the window when it happens. The broken glass can also allow water to enter the building, which can cause further damage to the property.

How to protect your windows from hail?

There are three ways that you can protect and prevent hail damage to your windows:

1) Installing storm shutters. 

Installing storm shutters is one of the best ways to protect your windows against hail damage. Storm shutters consist of heavy-duty material, such as metal or plastic, which fit securely over your windows.

2) Installing a hail screen

Another way to protect your windows from hail damage is to install a hail screen. Hail screens are a heavy-duty mesh material designed to deflect hailstones away from your windows.

3) Cover your windows with thick blankets or towels. 

If you don't have storm shutters or a hail screen, you can still protect your windows from hail damage by covering them with thick blankets or towels. A dense material covering your windows will help cushion the impact of the hailstones and prevent them from shattering your windows.

Steps to take if you have hail damage to your windows

In the situation where you do experience hail damage to your windows, there are a few steps that you should take:

First, contact a reliable restoration company for storm damage restoration services. The team you choose to hire should have extensive training and ample equipment to help you with all types of property damage, including hail damage repair.

Second, contact your insurance company to file a claim. When you call your insurance company, be sure to have all of the pertinent information ready, such as your policy number and the details of the damage.

Third, take photos of the damage to your windows, including close-up shots of any cracks or chips in the glass. You will want to submit these photos with your insurance claim to get compensation for your hail damage repair costs.

Fourth, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. You can do this by taping plastic sheeting over the broken windows or by covering them with plywood boards.

Finally, be sure to keep all of your receipts for any repairs or replacement windows so that you can submit them to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Let SERVPRO of South Cobb help you with your hail-damaged window.

The team at SERVPRO of South Cobb is here to help you when your windows have hail damage. We specialize in storm damage restoration and have the advanced tools, equipment, and expertise to help you get your home or business back to normal after a hailstorm. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb is an IICRC-certified firm, which means that we have the training and equipment to handle any type of property damage. We also have years of experience helping homeowners in your area with their hail damage claims.

Contact us today to schedule an estimate for your hail damage repair needs! We are available 24/7, 365 days a year!

The Pros and Cons of Installing Gutter Guards: What You Need to Know

4/20/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO if a storm has damaged your gutter guards!

Are gutter guards right for your home?

As a homeowner, you are responsible for cleaning your gutters regularly to prevent clogs and storm damage. But what if you could install gutter guards to always keep your gutters clean?

If you're on the fence about installing gutter guards, you need to read this blog post. We'll discuss the pros and cons of gutter guards so that you can make an informed decision about what's best for your home. Gutter guards can be a great way to protect your gutters from debris and keep them functioning correctly, but they aren't perfect. Let's look at some of the pros and cons of gutter guards!

What are gutter guards, and how do they work?

Gutter guards are a type of cover that you can install on your gutters to keep them free of debris. They work by diverging leaves and other debris before entering the gutter, thus preventing clogs. They come in various shapes and sizes, and you can find them at most home improvement stores.

Do gutter guards add value to your home?

Many homeowners ask if gutter guards add value to a home. The answer is yes. Gutter guards can add value to your home by preventing water damage and as a cosmetic addition. If you're looking to add value to your home, installing gutter guards may be an excellent way to do it.

What are the advantages of gutter guards?

Gutter guards have several advantages, including:

1. They keep your gutters clean and free of debris, preventing clogs and storm damage.
2. They are easy to install and can be found at most home improvement stores.
3. They are a great way to protect your gutters from pests and rodents

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb recommend gutter guards to their customers for the above reasons. If you are looking for an effective way to protect your gutters, gutter guards may be the right solution for you.

What are the disadvantages of gutter guards?

Despite their many benefits, gutter guards also have some disadvantages, including:

1. They can be expensive to install.
2. They may not be necessary if you clean your gutters regularly.
3. They can become loose.
4. They may not fit appropriately on your gutters, which could cause water to leak into your home.

The disadvantages listed above are essential to consider before installing gutter guards. The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have received storm damage calls due to improperly installed gutter guards causing water to leak into the home.

So, should you install gutter guards?

The decision of whether or not to install gutter guards is a personal one. There are advantages and disadvantages to consider before making a decision. For example, gutter guards may be suitable if you're looking for an easy way to keep your gutters clean and free of debris. However, if you're willing to clean your gutters regularly, you may not need them. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!

Final thoughts

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb hope that this blog post has helped you decide whether or not to install gutter guards. Gutter guards may be a great way to protect your gutters and prevent water damage, but they aren't perfect.

As you have learned, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider before you decide to install them, and ultimately, the decision is up to you! But, of course, if you have any further questions, feel free to give us a call! We're always happy to help our customers in any way we can.

If your gutters require repair or replacement after a storm, our SERVPRO of South Cobb team can help! We specialize in storm damage repair and can help you get your home back to normal after a storm. Contact us today for more information!

How to Prepare for a Spring Storm: The Ultimate Guide

4/6/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO for emergency storm restoration services!

It's better to be prepared for a spring storm before it arrives. 

It's that time of year again; the flowers are starting to bloom, and the warmer weather is coming. But along with the arrival of spring comes the threat of severe storms. While you can't control the weather, there are preparation steps you can take to make sure you and your family are as safe as possible when a spring storm hits.

Before preparing for a severe storm, you need to know what kind of risks you're facing. Different areas have different risks. For example, if you live in an area prone to flooding, you'll need to take steps to protect your home from floodwaters.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb understand the severity that a spring storm damage can cause to your home and your property, so it's essential to be prepared. The following blog post will include tips on preparing for a severe spring storm and why you want to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb for storm restoration services.

What kind of damage to look for after a spring storm?

When a spring storm hits, it can cause a lot of damage. Some common types of damage include:

• Trees and power lines down
• Roof damage
• Siding damage
• Window damage
• Flooding

Because Georgia is prone to spring storms, it's essential to know the signs of a storm before it arrives.

Know the signs of a severe spring storm

Without watching the news, certain signs indicate a severe spring storm is on its way. These include:

• Dark, greenish skies
• Thunder
• Rotating cloud formations
• Winds over 50 mph

If you see any of these signs, it's important to take cover immediately and prepare for the storm.

Preparing for a spring storm

Once you know a spring storm is on its way, it's essential to prepare your home or workplace. 

Tip 1: The first step in preparing for a spring storm includes ensuring all windows and doors are properly secured and that any loose items are brought inside. 

Tip 2: The second step in preparing for a spring storm is to ensure your home is equipped with the necessary materials and supplies. You will want to purchase a few extra cans of food, enough water to last a week, and plenty of flashlights.

Tip 3: The third step is to unplug any electronics in case of a power surge. 

Tip 4: The fourth step is to ensure your generator is ready to go with the proper fuel levels.

Tip 5: The fifth and final step is to develop a plan if you are forced to evacuate. The well-developed plan should include where you will go and how you will get there. It's also a good idea to have a list of emergency contacts on hand.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that you and your family are safe and prepared in the event of a severe spring storm.

Wrapping up

We hope you enjoyed learning about how to prepare for a spring storm. Remember, the best way to stay safe will always be to be prepared. 

If in the case that a spring storm damages your property, you can rely on the property restoration professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb to help get your property damage restored as soon as possible. All of the SERVPRO of South Cobb professionals are IICRC certified and are ready to help 24/7, 365 days a year!

We're dedicated to quickly responding when you contact us. A fast response lessens the damages, limits further damages, and reduces cost. Finally, when spring storms hit hard, we have the resources and personnel to help.

Contact us today if you have any questions or would like to schedule a spring storm damage inspection.

Roof Tarping: 5 Times You Will Want To Install a Roof Tarp

3/2/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the storm damage professionals at SERVPRO for emergency services!

If you will be working on your roof and want a little more protection from the elements, then installing a roof tarp is an excellent idea.

Roof tarps are simple yet effective at providing peace of mind while working on your home. In addition, they can help keep the weather out and prevent any potential damage from happening. If you live in an area prone to inclement weather, then a roof tarp is a must-have accessory for your home.

A roof tarp can provide many benefits such as weather protection, prevention of leaks, and added insulation. The following blog post will include five times a property owner will want to install a roof tarp. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of roof tarping and SERVPRO roof tarping services.

What is a roof tarp?

A roof tarp is a large fabric laid over a damaged roof to protect it from the elements. Tarps come in many different sizes and can be custom-fit to any roof. The best roof tarping materials consist of durable materials that withstand wind, rain, and snow. Although, we believe the best type of roof tarping material is woven polyethylene by Utarpit. Woven polyethylene is waterproof and will not tear or rip in high winds. In addition, many come with a UV coating to protect your roof from the sun's rays.

The installation process

Installing a roof tarp is a reasonably straightforward process. First, the tarp is laid out over the roof and secured in place. The tarp edges are commonly tucked under pieces of wood to keep it from flying away in high winds.

The best times to install a roof tarp

Many different scenarios will require a property owner to install a roof tarp on their property. Here is a list of the five most frequent times that the professionals at SERVPRO have installed roof tarps:

1) Storm damage: Arguably, the most important time to install a roof tarp is after a storm has caused damage to your roof. If your home or business has recently suffered damage due to a storm, it is vital to take action right away to prevent further damages with a roof tarp.

2) Additional protection from the elements: A roof tarp can protect your home from wind, rain, snow, and ice damage when the current roof in place is not sufficient.

3) Additional insulation: A roof tarp can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It is a sure-fire way to keep your home more comfortable and help you save money on your energy bills.

4) Prevention of leaks: A tarp can help prevent water infiltration and subsequent damage to your home, especially when there are missing shingles or holes in the roofing system.

5) Maintenance: A roof tarp can be a helpful addition for any property owner performing maintenance on their roof.

Who to call for roof tarping

When it comes to tarping your roof, you will want to contact a professional restoration company. The right restoration contractor should be experienced, honest, and equipped to handle any roof tarping needs that you may have.

SERVPRO roof tarping services

When it comes to roof tarping services in the greater Atlanta area, you will want to contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb. Our roof tarping professionals have the experience and knowledge to handle any roof tarping needs that you may have. We are committed to providing quality storm damage services and helping our customers get their lives back to normal as quickly as possible.

If you require roof tarping services, please don't hesitate to contact us today. We would be happy to quickly help you start the restoration process.

When Lightning Strikes: 3 Main Hazards To A House When Hit

10/6/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO when your home or business is affected by lightning.

A lightning strike is one of the most common causes of property damage and fire-related property insurance claims in America.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb have developed the reputation of being the go-to company for property damage restoration throughout the greater Atlanta region. On rare occasions, we have received calls regarding fire damage to a home after being hit by lightning.

Lightning strikes are one of the most dangerous hazards that a house can face, and in the following blog post, we will learn more about what happens when lightning strikes a house and how all house members can stay safe. Make sure you read to the end, where you will find out the three main hazards to a house that has been struck by lightning and how the professionals at SERVPRO can help.

How do lightning strikes occur?

Lightning strikes are caused by the buildup of electrical discharges in the atmosphere. Most of the time, lightning begins to form in clouds or other storm fronts and will travel for miles before hitting anything on the ground.

3 common hazards from lightning striking a house

Fire Damage: The most severe hazard to your house when struck by lightning is fire damage. Lightning can cause fire damage in two ways: a direct hit to the roof or siding, causing it to ignite. The other fire damage to look out for is an electrical fire that starts in the wiring of a house. 

Shock Waves: When lightning strikes a home directly or near, an explosive shock wave will follow. In the past, we have seen lightning shock waves shatter glass windows and damaged siding.

Power Surge: As you already learned, an electrical fire may occur when lightning comes in contact with the home electrical wiring. Something that can also occur is a power surge. A power surge is an unusually high amount of voltage that comes through the electrical system and into devices.

In the past, we have seen many electronics damaged after the home is hit by lightning. Surges come in different sizes and will occur when the wiring in your home absorbs all of the electricity from one bolt and then has to release it into another wire or appliance which is not equipped for this type of surge.

It is best to invest in a quality surge protector to avoid damaged electronics caused by a power surge. Surge protectors can be bought at most hardware and electrical supply stores for around $20-$30, depending on the quality and how many outlets you need to cover.

What to do when your home is struck by lightning?

If your home is struck by lightning, you must find out if any fires have started. You will want to check all areas of the house, including the attic because the attic is the most common area for a fire to break out after a lightning strike. You must call the local fire department at first sight or smell of fire.

Safety always must be a homeowner's top priority. Therefore, after the storm has passed, you should contact the professionals at SERVPRO to come and inspect your property whether a fire broke out or not.

Wrapping up

As you can see, when lightning directly strikes a house, it can cause all sorts of severe damages. Unfortunately, lightning strikes to a home are nearly impossible to prevent, but you can develop an emergency disaster recovery plan to prevent the damages from becoming worse.

Please contact the professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb after lightning strikes your property. SERVPRO of South Cobb is an IICRC certified firm that specializes in fire damage restoration.

3 Must-Know Tips for Siding Storm Damage Repair

7/14/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the SERVPRO storm restoration professionals today!

Thunderstorms, high wind speeds, and hail are a threat to your home's siding. Use the following tips after storm damage occurs.

Has your property experienced siding storm damage recently? If so, then this blog post is for you! In the following post, we will be going over three tips for siding repair to help make the process easier.

Siding storm damage can lead to water damage

Our professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are primarily known for their water restoration service in Atlanta and have seen many causes of water damage from siding damage. When your home siding is damaged, it is susceptible to have water enter in and cause water damage to interior insulation and drywall. To avoid unwanted water damage, a homeowner must act fast at the first sign of siding damage to avoid additional issues.

Not only is siding damage susceptible to water, but it also leaves you with an unattractive home. If a storm has damaged your siding and you need repair or replacement, SERVPRO of South Cobb can help! We offer siding restoration services completed by professionals who will make sure the job gets done right!

Siding storm damage can be complicated.

The professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb understand how complicated it can be to navigate siding damage after a storm passes. When a home has suffered from siding storm damage trying to find and install new siding to match the rest of your home is going to be the biggest challenge. 

3 Tips when handling siding repair

1) Get in contact with your homeowner's insurance company 

Shortly after any siding damage has damaged your home, you should contact your insurance company. They will work with you to determine if your policy covers the storm damage.

If your insurance company does cover the siding storm damage, you may also be happy to find out that your insurance will cover a full siding replacement.

2) Contact a local siding manufacturer

As we mentioned earlier, finding matching siding is going to be the biggest challenge in navigating siding storm damage. To help speed up the restoration process when dealing with siding storm damage, you should contact a local siding manufacturer; they can help match the type of siding installed on your home.

2) Contact siding restoration professionals ASAP 

Contact a reliable restoration company after the siding storm damage has occurred. The right team of restoration professionals will know how to quickly mitigate and restore all exterior damages. They may even offer a temporary fix; for example, the professionals at SERVPRO will put a tarp over all damaged siding to ensure no secondary damages occur.

Secondary damages can include structural damages caused by mold or wood rot. To further protect a home from secondary damages, the restoration professionals may also board up windows or doors damaged during the storm.

The best siding storm damage team in Atlanta

The siding storm damage specialists at SERVPRO of South Cobb are the best in Atlanta for siding repair work and property clean-up after a storm. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the most efficient siding solutions, as well as being sensitive to your budget constraints. We can even help you with your homeowner's insurance claim!

When you choose to hire SERVPRO of South Cobb, you will be granted a team of IICRC certified professionals that have been trained to mitigate any size disaster. SERVPRO of South Cobb is independently owned by Rick Northen, who prioritizes two things:

1. Customer satisfaction
2. Quality workmanship

These two attributes are what separates SERVPRO of South Cobb from every other restoration company in Atlanta.

Contact us today for further questions on our siding storm damage company. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year.

Will Insurance Cover A Hail Damage Claim in Mableton, GA?

5/26/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the fast-acting hail damage professionals at SERVPRO today!

Living in a hail-prone area, you need to know how to identify and get your hail damage covered.

As a homeowner in Mableton, you may be wondering if your homeowner's insurance will cover hail damage to your property. Not all hail damage claims are approved, and many factors come into play when considering whether or not an insurance company will pay for damages done by hail. In this blog post, we'll go over the types of damages hail can cause as well as what is typically covered in a homeowners policy.

The power of hail

Hail is often a part of heavy and unexpected storms, and hail balls of ice can do severe damage to your house. Some hail damage is noticeable, such as shattered glass or a dented car. The minor, unnoticed hail damage, on the other hand, must be identified with a trained eye. To assess the severity of the damage and how to proceed with the immediate repairs, you'll require a hail damage inspection.

7 places to check after a hailstorm: 

1. Look for dents, cracks, and holes in your home's siding. 
2. Examine the downspouts & gutters for dents. Hailstorm often leaves small dents in metal gutters and downspouts.
3. Check all window screens for tears or holes. 
4. Inspect all outdoor furniture. Plastic and wood yard furniture can be cracked or damaged by severe hail. 
5. Inspect your mailbox by searching for dents and cracks.
6. Look for dings, dents, and cracks in the casing and window sills. 
7. Look for cracks in any window glass.

Consider adding hail damage to your insurance policy.

When you are shopping for homeowners insurance, you need to think about paying more to have any hail damage added to your plan. You will want to analyze the exact location where you reside to see if there are patterns of hail storms happening in that area more often than others. 

Be aware that some insurance policies are more likely to limit their hail damage coverage depending on if hail damages a high percentage of properties in your area.

If you find the perfect coverage for you, but hail damage is not covered, you should consider purchasing a separate hail coverage in addition to your existing policy. Having hail coverage will be vital if you live in an area with high amounts of hailstorms.

What does homeowners insurance consider hail damage?

When you file a new claim, your adjuster will start by reviewing the type of coverage you have on your property, including your liability coverages. An insurance adjuster will consider several factors when determining whether or not hail damage is considered covered.

Homeowners should get their property inspected for damages within 30 days after the damages occur to get reimbursed for repairs or replacement costs. If you are unsure about what is considered covered, contact your agent before reporting anything as damaged, but typically homeowners insurance considers hail damage to be any of the following:

• Roofs and their underlayment
• Walls, siding, gutters, downspouts, and other exterior components.
• Windows with breakage from hailstones.
• Damage from hailstones that penetrated the interior of your home
• Hail damage that leads to a ceiling leak 

Include the following information in your hail damage claim.

To quickly get your hail damage claim approved, you need to file a claim with the right information about how the storm occurred, along with any pictures or video evidence from where it took place. The proper documentation will help your homeowner's insurance adjuster determine the severity of the hail damage and help them arrive at an approval decision.

SERVPRO is ready to help!

Hail damage is inevitable to happen in Mableton, GA. A hail storm can severely affect your home's roof and other exterior coverings, as well as other personal belongings. While hailstorms can be damaging, the extent of the damage varies greatly. 

No matter what extent of hail damage your property has recently gone through, the storm damage professionals at SERVPRO of South Cobb are ready on call to act quickly.

When dealing with hail damage, you need to hire restoration professionals that have dealt with many hail damage claims before. SERVPRO is the most reliable option for you when you want your home and everyday life to be normal again after you have suffered hail damage.

Feel free to contact us at any time for any questions regarding any size damage. Once we receive your call, we will send out a team of IICRC certified professionals to help mitigate and restore your property with integrity backing our name.

5 Great Ways To Minimize Flash Flood Damage in Mableton GA

5/19/2021 (Permalink)

The SERVPRO storm team is ready for any size disaster!

Flash flood damage is one of the most frequent and costly hazards in the United States. 

The SERVPRO professionals have gotten many calls for flash flood property damage for the neighborhoods along Nickajack Creek in Mableton. We understand that flash floods happen quickly and are hard to predict. 

This post is intended for any Mableton homeowner that wants to know how they can protect their property from flash flood damage or needs flood damage restoration services. 

What are flash floods?

Flash flooding can be the result of many scenarios but is often the result of heavy rainfall. Those that live along the Nickajack creek will experience flash flooding when the creek rises. A raised watershed can block roadways or cause property flood damage. 

Not all flash floods are the same. Flash flooding can happen suddenly and, surprisingly, without any apparent signs of rain. Flash floods are caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Excessive rain – up to 6 hours after precipitation or within minutes of it.
• Thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes all produce slow-moving, long-duration flooding.
• Failure of a dam.
• Rainfall or snowmelt that exceeds the capacity of sewage systems and drainage pipes.

Common areas that are prone to flash flood damage?

Rivers, urban areas, coastlines, and dry creek beds are all prone to flash flooding. Generally, creek and river floods occur as river basins fill too rapidly and water overflows the rivers. Even if they are comparatively far away from water, properties constructed on land below sea level are highly vulnerable.

What is the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning?

When flooding is inevitable or already occurring, a flood warning is given. However, when conditions are favorable for floods, a flood watch is issued. It's not a confirmation that floods will occur, rather a possibility. So, make sure to differentiate between the two before taking suitable preventive measures listed below.  

The 5 Ways To Minimise Flash Flood Property Damage 

For those that live near Nickajack Creek, there might be nothing you can do to avoid flooding, but there are steps you may take to minimize damage to the interior of your house:

1. Install flood barriers and keep sandbags nearby.
2. Seal your basement windows and cracks in foundations.
3. Improve drainage around your home.
4. Install a sump pump, flood detection system, and water detectors.
5. Regularly clear debris from drains and clean gutters and downspouts. 

Flood water classified as Category 3 water damage

When your property experiences flood damage from a flash flood, you need to know that insurance will classify the property damage as a category 3 water damage, which is also known as "black water." Black water is the most severe form of water damage and necessitates immediate action to avoid significant health hazards. 

Properties that have category 3 water damages will have highly contaminated water in their property that may contain pathogenic, toxigenic, or other dangerous substances.  

Category three water damage can result from sewage, flooding from seawater, rising water from streams or rivers, ground surface water, and other polluted water that has entered or impacted the indoor environment. It is always best to hire a team of IICRC certified professionals when your Mableton property experiences any category of water damage. 

Call SERVPRO for flood restoration services.

This post discussed what a flash flood is, how it can impact your property, and ways to minimize potential flood damage. You can count on the team at SERVPRO of South Cobb when your property does experience flood damage.  

Throughout the greater Atlanta area, SERVPRO of south Cobb has built a reputation as a renowned company, who has been serving clients since 1967. Our team is fully equipped with the necessary tools and certifications to handle any Mableton flood restoration job. 

We truly understand the extent of damage floods can cause to a home or a business, and we know how devastating it can be to deal with it. That's why our team is ready to provide you with experts' assistance 24/7, no matter what. When you call SERVPRO, you can guarantee that your damaged property will be quickly restored to a pre-water damage state. Contact us today to speak with a flood restoration professional!

Wind Damage in Austell, Georgia: Is It Covered By Insurance?

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO of South Cobb for wind damage repairs!

Wind damage in Austell affects many property owners each year.

Windstorms are natural occurrences that we all have to deal with; however, wind damage in Austell is not. When the wind becomes too strong, and it damages your Austell Georgia home, you may be wondering if the damage will be covered by insurance or not. 

In this blog post, we will help answer some of your questions about what's considered wind damage in Austell, Georgia, and how much coverage you can expect from the insurance company for wind type of events.

Austell, GA, is known for its occasional wind damage.

There is no ambiguity regarding the drastic weather forecasts when it comes to Austell, Georgia and the risk of wind damage in Austell is much higher than the Georgia average and the national average. 

Within the last 60 years, Austell has experienced more than 2000 extreme thunderstorm winds and more than 3000 extreme events of hail, strong wind, and winter storms. Therefore, it is not surprising that property loss from heavy winds and hail is one of the leading causes of homeowners' insurance claims amongst Austell, Georgia. 

Is wind damage in Austell covered by homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance is put in place to protect your homes and belongings from various types of weather damage, such as wind damage. Thus, homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage due to hail or windstorms. However, specific exclusions to these rules, such as damage to personal property within the homes by rain or snow, may not be covered. 

Still, if wind damage has caused rain or snow to enter your home, then the damage is most likely covered by homeowners insurance. Austell wind damage to roofs, fences, and windows of a home and the damage to property caused by fallen trees due to high-speed winds are also covered. Most insurance companies pay for tree removals from driveways and garages if these trees fell due to windstorms. 

What damage can wind do?

High-speed winds can lead to severe structural damage to the exterior and interior of your properties. The wind itself can lead to roof and exterior damage caused by loose shingles, displaced pipelines, blocked chimneys, and obstructed gutters and drainage systems. 

Sometimes the wind can cause uprooting trees or flying branches to land on the property and leading to storm damage. High wind speed paired with rain on an already damaged roof can cause them to start leaking and allow seepage to appear within the homes and result in significant structural damage.

Additionally, wind can cause damage to the windows and doors of commercial and personal property. Windstorms result in the breaking of windows and loosening of old doors. Broken tree branches or flying debris with high-speed winds can break windows, fences, chimneys, sheds, etc. 

How to identify roof wind damage

Mild wind damage typically begins to occur at a speed of 45mph or higher. To identify roof wind damage, you should start by thoroughly inspecting the surface of the roof for signs of any missing shingles or granules. 

The most apparent sign is entire shingles missing from the roof and finding them around your property. Furthermore, granules pile up within the roof's gutters, so look within your gutter system to find any missing granules. 

Peeled shingles can cause roofs to sustain more significant damage and result in leakage and water damage. In addition, wind can cause cracks in the roof's fascia and lead to water leakage problems. 

Lastly, a displaced chimney can be highly suggestive of extensive damage to your property due to high wind speeds. However, identifying the extent of the wind damage might not be possible without a professional to assist you. It is highly recommended that you seek consultation from a professional restoration company, such as SERVPRO, to analyze and restore the damage caused by wind. 

SERVPRO helps with wind damage insurance claims

The professional team at SERVPRO of South Cobb can analyze and pretest the damage caused by high-speed winds. When a SERVPRO hero arrives at the scene of a wind damage claim, they will give you a greater understanding of the claims that need to be made to the insurance company. 

SERVPRO is the ideal restoration company as it aims to help you and your property recover to its fullest. Our team ensures that our clients are always well-informed regarding the extent and costs of the damage reparation and recovery.

If you are currently experiencing wind damage to your property, contact SERVPRO of South Cobb by calling (770) 739-2355 or filling out our contact form on our contact page. A dispatcher will send an IICRC certified SERVPRO professional to come out and perform a thorough inspection and design a wind damage repair plan.

5 Ways to keep your basement from flooding

4/7/2021 (Permalink)

Contact the flood mitigation professionals to dry out your basement!

Heavy rainfall can result in Smyrna basement flooding.

No one wants to come home to a flooded basement, but disasters don't come with a warning. When flooding occurs, your carpet will get soaked, and your furniture will be ruined. Worse of all, when left sitting, the basement will start to smell musty and damp.

You must be wondering how you could have prevented this from happening? How can you keep the water from overflowing your basement again? For those that live in flood-prone areas, this may be a source of considerable discomfort.

If you own a basement and are worried that it might become a victim of flooding when it rains heavily, then this is for you; read on, let's help you ease your worries.

How do storms cause basement flooding?

Basements are prone to flooding. Water seepage can flow through the foundation floor, windows, or walls from surface water sources or a storm sewer backup. In most cases in Georgia, we have seen groundwater flood the basement through a sump pump failure during a torrential downpour. Most sump pumps need electricity to function correctly. When a severe storm strikes a home's power supply, a sump pump will go out and leave a basement flooded. 

Disasters can't be prevented if we don't know the reasons behind them. When it comes to basement flooding, here are the most common causes: 

• Holes in the walls.
• Cracks in the foundation.
• Gaps in your window frames.
• Faulty or broken water pipes and sump pumps.
• Snow thaws, rainstorms. (any sort of moisture surrounding your home)

5 ways to prevent a basement flood

1. Downspouts should be positioned so that water is redirected at least four feet away from the foundation of your house. If this is not possible with your current downspouts, try getting new extensions for a quick and straightforward way to avoid standing water from gathering around your house. 
2. Install flood sensors in your basement. You can always count on them to keep the basement dry with advanced features like moisture detection along with immediate alert notifications.
3. Installation of a sump pump is an excellent idea for flood prevention, but only if they operate correctly. Sump pumps drain water from where it shouldn't be and then store it in a "sump basin."  
4. One promising way to prevent basement flooding is to ensure that water can't get in through the windows or foundation. Ensure that your windows are properly sealed; install good quality window covers and repair any flaws or cracks.
5. Make sure that gutter maintenance is done at least four times a year. Gutter maintenance is one of the most important things when it comes to flood prevention. Clean your gutters regularly and remove any debris, leaves, etc. 

What is flood mitigation?

In the restoration industry, mitigation is the method of minimizing the damage of a property due to the effects of a disaster. It applies to the 'clean-up' process following a natural disaster that leads to excess water.

Flood mitigation steps include:

1. Assessing the situation.
2. Removing water & moisture.
3. Sanitizing & removing any hazardous material.
4. Drying it to prevent any further damage and mold.

Flood mitigation also lowers the potential risk of flood damage to the structure and also decreases the severity of flood damage as it happens. It can include the purchase of flood insurance, the elevation of houses, installing a flood wall, etc.

What equipment is needed for flood mitigation?

Air movers and dehumidifiers have proven to be the best equipment to remove water and eliminate any moisture absorbed in surfaces. The flood mitigation process will typically take 3-5 days to achieve dry. To properly sanitize a flooded basement, you will need the help of a professional-grade antimicrobial. The professionals at SERVPRO prefer using the product Benefect. 

Who to call for basement flooding?

In the industry, SERVPRO is a renowned company, and it has been serving clients since 1967. The team at SERVPRO of South Cobb is fully equipped with state-of-the-art commercial equipment and has years of experience restoring water damage in no time.

To make your life easier, we will work with your insurer and develop a mitigation plan to restore the structure. Your basement will be restored to a pre-water state. Our goal is for it to be hard to tell that there was ever water damage, to begin with. We understand how devastating a flooded basement can be, which is why we provide emergency service 24/7. Contact us today!

Toilet Bubbling During Heavy Rain or Storm

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is one call away for water restoration services!

A home toilet bubbling during a storm may lead to water damages

After a storm or heavy rain, you might have noticed your toilet bubbling and gurgling. At first, a toilet bubbling may seem insignificant, but it can lead to a much bigger problem. Severe clogs and backups can cause a bubbling toilet. A small issue can be a clear sign of future plumbing problems and even toilet water spewing all over your house.

If you fear that a more significant problem might arise, or if that greater problem has already occurred, you need help from storm Damage specialists to help you out. In this blog post, you will learn the causes of toilet bubbles and what you need to do about it!

What causes a toilet to bubble

Suppose you recently noticed that your toilets are bubbling during or after heavy rainfall. In that case, you need to take some precautionary steps to avoid bigger problems. For starters, you can attempt to plunge the toilet to see if the toilet bubbles go away. If the toilet continues to bubble, you should ask your neighbors if they have the same issue. If they have toilet bubbles, then there may be a blockage in the sewer line. 

Typically, a toilet would start to bubble when there is too much water trying to drain through a restricted pipe. The restriction would most probably be due to excessive rainwater stuck in the sewer system. 

How A Bubbling Toilet Leads To Damages In The House 

If the problem is not in your house but the sewer system itself, you should call an Atlanta plumber ASAP. It will be essential that the sewer system is fixed as soon as possible to avoid the following 3 ways a bubbling toilet can lead to future damages to the house.

1) Exposure To Waste

The first issue caused by a blocked sewer system is that you will be exposed to all the waste build up inside your home. Sewage water damages need to be handled by water damage professionals to avoid exposure to toxins. 

2) Foul Smells

You will start noticing foul smells emitting from the drains. The extent of the foul smell will likely push you out of your own home. Air fresheners, plants, and other sources of pleasant odor would seize to work adequately to get the smell out. The SERVPRO professionals are available to help remove all the unwanted smells in no time!

3) Drain Field Failure

Lastly, a flawed sewer system leading to your toilet bubbling can cause the drain field to fail. The next thing you will see is the water and sewage backing up in your home. Your drainage system can get weaker, and you will notice that it takes considerable time for water to drain through sinks and bathtubs. You might also find standing water and damp spots near the drain field. 

With all of these problems, you need to call water mitigation professionals to avoid exposure to contaminants and pathogens. 

Why Choose SERVPRO For Water Damage Restoration

You can do little to prevent any of the mentioned events from happening, but you can call experts to help you get out of the mess. SERVPRO is a renowned name in the industry and has been serving customers since 1967. If you want life to be back to normal after damages by heavy rainfall or storms occur, SERVPRO is the most viable option for you.

With state-of-the-art equipment and years of experience, SERVPRO of South Cobb will restore all the water damage in little time and prevent further damages from occurring. The best part about hiring us is that we offer emergency services 24/7 to our customers and have specialists working around the clock. Better be safe than sorry; give us a call as soon as you notice something as little as a gurgling toilet, so we can prevent anything worse from happening. 

Call us at (770) 739-2355

What Damage Can Flash Floods Cause To Your Home or Business?

8/10/2020 (Permalink)

Flash flooding will result in flood cuts to your home or business.

SERVPRO has the equipment to remove the water from when a flash flood passes through Smyrna, Georgia 

Flash Flood Water Removal

Georgia residents know that you do not necessarily have to live in a zone known for flooding to get hit with flood damage after a storm or hurricane. When your home or business encounters flash flooding that leaves your Smyrna home underwater, you can count on our highly trained mitigation and cleanup crew at SERVPRO to get the job done. 

Our advanced technology and proven methods for restoration have proven to be Smyrna's most reliable and trusting restoration company that is available 24/7 for emergency cleanup. 

Interior Water Damage  

Intense storms with heavy rainfall will create water channels that can infiltrate your interior, saturate your flooring, and cause water to get behind the walls. Most of the time, these damages result from malfunctioning gutters, cracks in the foundation, and broken windows.  

When a certified trained technician arrives on-site, we will not only clean up the water caused by the flood but also let you know where your home is susceptible to future potential flood damage. 

Flooding to any structure leaves a notable amount of damage, but our team at SERVPRO specializes in flash flood removal in Smyrna, leaving your property “Like it never even happened.”

How Can SERVPRO Clean Water Damages From Flash Floods?  

We use specialized drying equipment to help us address the restoration project, including: 

• A Truck-mounted extractor that allows for prompt water removal
• Moisture meters that enable us to find hidden pockets of moisture to avoid secondary damage
• Professional grade drying and dehumidification equipment to create an optimum environment to execute your flash flood removal project 

Wet Materials, What is considered Salvageable? 

During any flood loss event, it is likely that materials will need to be removed and dried if not thrown away. We want to clarify that not all of the interior contents to your property will be salvageable. Flood water is considered a category three water damage loss; this means that all of the damaged materials need to be removed and trashed. The reason that materials are categorized as a category three-loss is that there are potential microbes on the damaged contents that can be harmful. 

Flood Damage Demolition

When the SERVPRO of South Cobb crew arrives on the scene at a Smyrna property that has suffered from flood damage, they will start by evaluating the extent of the damage then perform demolition on the property by removing all wet materials. In most cases, flood cuts to the drywall are going to be necessary. A flood cut will allow the structure to dry properly and will remove the unsalvageable drywall. Flood cuts also will enable us to use drying equipment to properly address the moisture hidden behind walls and in tight corners. 

After the storm, flash flood removal services are available 24/7 for our Smyrna residents. When your home undergoes a flood, you can call SERVPRO of South Cobb. We can have a crew at your location within hours after calling us at (770) 739-2355.

More about Smyrna 

Plumbing Back Ups After A Storm

6/29/2020 (Permalink)

Tree roots can get into your plumbing pipes causing a potential backup.

Heavy rainfall can cause a plumbing malfunction leaving your home ankle-deep in sewage water

SERVPRO of South Cobb has received many calls regarding water damage after a big storm passes through metro Atlanta. In some cases, the water damage has occurred from a sump pump failure or a foundation leak. In homes with a septic tank, we have seen a rise in sewage damage losses after heavy rainfall due to the storm air pressure change.  If your home has a septic system, we want to ensure that you stay free of nasty water losses. It is essential for our customers to know what the signs are for a failing septic system to avoid any category 3 water losses. 

What are the signs of septic system failure?

A clear indicator that your septic system may be faulty is when you hear strange noises. The typical noise that customers alert our plumbing contractors on is gurgling sounds from a toilet bowl or shower. Any noise coming from a pipe or drainage system is typically from a clogged pipe from your house's plumbing system to the septic tank.  

What are 3 causes of a clogged pipe?

When a pipe is clogged, the drain will likely make a sound and perform very slow draining. We have seen that there are three leading causes of a clogged pipe. 

1. Someone flushed something down the toilet that shouldn't be. 
2. Broken underground pipe 
3. Roots from a tree 

Flushing something other than human waste and paper down the drain is a prevalent plumbing problem that can cause significant damages to a home’s interior from water damage. If the item that is clogging the drain is not snaked out ASAP, it is likely that the water back up will occur and cause more issues. The issues might not happen immediately, but you can be sure that the damages might become present when heavy rainfall occurs.  

A broken underground pipe is another problem that can cause sewage backup into your home. If you see standing water in your yard, that is a clear indicator that you have a broken underground pipe. It is crucial to get the pipe fixed to avoid the sewage water from entering your home. We have seen cases where foundation leaks causing unwanted sewage water to enter the home.  

Old trees surrounding your home create a high possibility that roots will damage the septic system. This issue is difficult to detect at first. Roots can grow in your septic tank and into a home's plumbing pipes.  If this occurs, the water can back up into your home, leaving your basement full of sewage water. 

Sewage water is a category three water loss

Sewage water, also known as black water, is known as a category three water loss. If your home or business has suffered from this type of water loss, it is vital to contact a professional water restoration company like SERVPRO. SERVPRO of South Cobb has seen it all when it comes to water losses. We have handled small jobs where an AC unit has caused minor water damages, to a flooded basement in ankle-deep sewage water. 

If you have recently suffered from water damage after a recent storm, please contact our office at (770) 739-2355. We are available 24/7 365 days a year for any water damage related questions. 

3 Common Signs of Atlanta Wind Damage

6/22/2020 (Permalink)

It's important to have your home inspected after a storm passes through your neighborhood

How the professional spot wind damage to your home

We have seen unresolved wind damage cause more significant problems to our metro Atlanta homes. When heavy winds pass through Atlanta, the damage may affect your home or business gutters and roofing. These minor damages can become much bigger problems if not handled quickly. At SERVPRO of South Cobb, we have seen massive water damage from damaged gutters or roofing.

3 Common Signs of Wind Damage 

1. Missing or loose pieces of roofing materials. Check on the sides of your house and see if your roof has had shingles fly off after fast winds. 
2. Missing bricks or siding. When siding is damaged, your home is not set up o fight against potential water damages. 
3. A broken window or window seal can cause substantial damage to your home's interior if not correctly fixed. 

Suspect that your home has been affected by wind damage?

If your Atlanta home has apparent wind damage, it is essential to get your roof/property inspected by a licensed contractor. SERVPRO of South Cobb is licensed and insured, and if you do have wind damage to your home, we can tell you the proper steps on getting the missing materials replaced. In most cases, but not all, we recommend that you contact your insurance company to cover the loss. For documentation reasons, we tell our Atlanta residents always to keep a detailed record when something happens to your property. Include the date, time, weather information, and the damage in your documents. Keeping an accurate record is going to be helpful for insurance claims.  

Repairing Atlanta Homes after wind damage

Repairing damage to your home is pretty easy in most cases. The issue that we have seen is that many homeowners do not think it is a big deal to get the damaged materials replaced, causing more significant problems. In one scenario, we had a customer that told us that they knew that fast finds had caused damage to their roof because they found missing shingles in their yard. After a few months of neglect, the homeowner began to smell mold coming from their attic. When one of our IICRC trained professionals inspected the attic, we found mold that had developed from a leak in their roof. A dark, moist place, like an attic, is a friendly place for mold growth. 

A quick fix is not going to take place when wind damage is more extensive, like from a tornado. Although tornadoes are not common in Atlanta, that last one occurring in 2008, we need to ensure that you are aware that extensive restoration protocols required to take place. Atlanta tornadoes can cause water damage, roof damage, chimney damage, and multiple other forms of damage to your home that can complicate the repair process. 

Inspections and Restoration Contractor Information

Give us a call if you believe that your Atlanta home has been damaged from heavy winds. We would be more than happy to come and inspect your home for restoration damages. To schedule an appointment, you can call our office at (770) 739-2355 or fill out the form on our contact page.

Flood Damage To Your Smyrna Home

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Give SERVPRO of South Cobb a call anytime at (770) 739-2355.

SERVPRO Will find The Best Solution to fix Your Water Damaged Home

Most of the time, after heavy storms, flood damage occurs, which is distressing and frightening. Within a blink of an eye, your home can no longer seem like your own. After the initial water extraction, you may see visible damage to furniture and other personal belongings. The worst part is going to the tell-tale damp smell that lingers after flooding.

Help from skilled professionals may be needed to help you deal with flood damage to your Smyrna home. Thankfully SERVPRO is only one call away and will offer all the necessary assistance to get your home cleaned up, dried out, and odor-free. 

We Know Our How To Operate Advanced Equipment 

The home drying process is knowing the correct use of dehumidifiers. The purpose of dehumidifiers is to reduce the amount of humidity in the air using a process where air from the environment is pulled and passed across cooling coils. The cooling coils lower the air temperature, causing condensation (Water Vapors), which the unit collects. Next, the dehumidifier reheats and redistributes hot air into the room.

Most people use small dehumidifiers when they have a humid basement. The reason is that as explained above, a dehumidifier removes water vapor held in the air. Georgia is no stranger to humidity, especially during the warm summer months.  

Did you know that humidity rises after a flood because there's more water vapor in the air? Our water damage professionals know that the higher the moisture level, the more difficult the drying process.

How Do Dehumidifiers Work?

Dehumidifiers will reduce the amount of humidity in the air by using a smart but straightforward process. The unit sucks in moist air from the room and passes it across cooling coils located inside the dehumidifier. The inner coils lower the air temperature, causing condensation. After the condensation, the drier air is reheated and redistributed into the room, removing all moisture from the air.

I hope you can see why dehumidifiers are such a vital piece of equipment to handle flood damage. We put our SERVPRO technicians in extensive training to calculate the best dehumidifier set-up for every unique situation.

How We Place Our Drying Equipment 

First, when we arrive on-site, our teams will take into account key factors, including the amount of water present in flood damage. We also take a look at the kinds of wet materials that are present (porous or non-porous). Lastly, we know how important it is to see whether water has seeped into walls and floors. We can tell the number of dehumidifiers that are necessary for the job when we know how severe the flood damage is. 

We want our Smyrna homeowners to be aware that it is impossible to tell how dry a structure is by looking at a structure. When we arrive on-site, you can be sure that our technicians will carefully monitor drying progress using moisture meters and information gathered from other water mitigation tools. With our tools, we will know if we should add or remove dehumidifiers. In some cases, we have had to create a small drying chamber to speed up the drying process.

The Difference Between a Storm Warning and a Storm Watch

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

If your home has experienced storm damage, call us ASAP at (770) 739-2355.

Population size can affect the severity of a storm by at least 2% in rainfall. This is due to a higher temperature in cities like Smyrna, Georgia. Fortunately, our phones have the convenient ability to alert us of an oncoming storm, whether the storm happens tonight, tomorrow, or within the next few days. However, these alerts come with two different descriptions of the storm, a storm watch or a storm warning. Without being informed on the difference between the two, how can we know how prepared we need to be for storms headed our way? Here’s the difference. A storm warning is a less severe storm message. 

A storm warning is for a storm that:

• will arrive soon 
• lasts between twenty minutes and an hour
• covers only portions of a county
• indicates we should take cover when the message is received

A storm watch is for a storm that:

• will arrive within a few hours
• lasts for several hours
• can cover across multiple states
• indicates we should have a plan prepared for when it arrives

With this information, we can better prepare ourselves for when that message shows up on phones. The next time a storm message arrives, whether a watch or a warning, save your stress about the possibility of damage until the following day. And before looking for how to handle storm damage from last night, consider hiring storm damage specialists directly from businesses like your local SERVPRO, who have the power of a commercial company with the speed and customer service of a local company. SERVPRO of South Cobb can take all the hassle out of the inevitable. While we cannot avoid the path of a storm, they can restore our homes as though storms never happen. 

Seasonal Severe Weather Causes Flooding in Smyrna

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Teams Arrive Ready and Equipped to Tackle Flood Damage in Your Home

Residents of Smyrna pay close attention during hurricane season, tracking the path of the storms making landfall off the Gulf and/or moving through Florida. The storms may decrease in ferocity, but if they pass over our area, heavy rains and strong winds are anticipated. Flood damage is common, and we are ready to assist if water fills any areas of your home. 

Multiple inches of rain falling over just the span of a few hours spells flood damage in Smyrna to your home. The lowest levels of your dwelling and any foundation or crawl space are at risk, and the quantity of water requires professional help to remove. We have tracked the storm as well, and have the crews assembled and equipment inventoried to come to the aid of our community. 

Fast action by SERVPRO minimizes the long-term effects of flooding. Contact us as soon as you note water is climbing inside or swamping your foundation or crawl space. Standing water is extreme in its destructive power, and the sooner we arrive to assess and plan, the more quickly we remove the water and move on the structural drying and restoration. 

Expect your SERVPRO team to arrive fully-equipped to begin water removal. Often power outages accompany flooding events because of high winds and lightning. We power our industrial strength submersible pumps and high-efficiency water extractors from vehicle loaded sources. No waiting means less time for the water and any hazardous substances or items it contains to accelerate damage to your home. Water removed we dispose of off-site, necessary as floodwater is considered contaminated, often filled with sewer backup, chemical runoff from neighboring lawns and pavement, and overflow from nearby waterways. 

Trained technicians then measure and monitor the moisture in structure and contents. SERVPRO uses advanced technology to locate hidden and trapped water inside walls and in recesses of your foundation or crawl space. Once we note this obscured moisture, we work to release and remove it. Sections of walls may be cut out to permit extractors to suction the water out, or holes may be drilled into mortar joints for the water to evacuate. 

We position air movers and dehumidifiers to reduce the remaining moisture rapidly as well as sanitizing surfaces to inhibit microbial activity. Any furnishings or stored items are moved to a dry area for experienced restorers to review. Do not assume precious items are ruined. Many saturated items, including documents, pictures, and heirlooms, gain new life using unique resources SERVPRO offers.  

A flood event is frightening and overwhelming, but SERVPRO of South Cobb restores both your home and peace of mind. Call us for a flood damage evaluation at (770) 739-2355. 

Visit https://www.smyrnaga.gov/ for more information about the city of Smyrna.

Flood Damage in Clarkdale can Ruin Your Home and Endanger Your Health

4/29/2020 (Permalink)

Our SERVPRO Technicians Can Quickly Assess your Property After a Flood

Floods cause a great deal of damage and can come from many sources. The worst floods come from external sources, although it is possible that clean water from burst water lines can become contaminated inside our home, making them almost as bad as floods originating outside your home. Contaminants make things especially hazardous to your health, but here are other dangers that can lurk inside your home after a flood has receded. 

In Clarkdale, flood damage can include silt and soils left behind in your appliances. These can retain moisture, creating not only breeding grounds for microorganisms but also moist environments that cause rust and other corrosive actions. As you know, rust can ruin your electric appliances over time, even if they seemed fine at first. Hot water heaters are especially dangerous because silt can shift, blocking pilot lights and creating gas leaks in the process. The same is true of gas dryers and ovens. 

It is vital to have your home appliances examined by a qualified professional to check and to make repairs on them. While we at SERVPRO are excellent at cleaning such items, we want to make sure that they are in perfect working order and recommend that these always also be examined by a certified technician after we have cleaned them. Most water damage technicians will not clean appliances to the degree required after a flood, but we can.

Other cleaning aspects can help you preserve your wood floors. After a flood, you are not merely battling moisture. You are also working to remove sediments that can act like sandpaper in your home. Some of this sediment is so fine, it can become airborne, and when breathed in, it can irritate your nasal passages and throat. Air scrubbers can help remove these particles, just like they do mold spores. As we dry your home with our heaters and air movers, we can also place our air scrubbers in the most effective locations to catch much of the silt, and other particles, floating in the air, making your home air much cleaner in the long run for you and your family. 

When you find yourself coping with flood damage, give us, SERVPRO of South Cobb a call at (770) 739-2355. Day or night, we are here to help you fight restoration emergencies.

Flood Damage Remediation in Austell

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Flood damage repair (770) 739-2355

We First Determine the Source of the Flooding and then Start the Remediation Process. 

When flooding in your home occurs for any reason, you will need a professional water damage restoration company such as SERVPRO to help you with the water damage clean up. Water mitigation takes several different steps to stop more damage from happening after a flood. Natural disasters or failures in plumbing can create water damage, most of which are beyond your control. However, time is of the essence in these situations in mitigating the adverse effects that flooding can have on your home. 

A lot of overflows and flood damage are caused first by freshwater, which comes directly from the faucet in Austell and is not harmful, or gray water, which is contaminated water from appliances. Floodwater and sewage water is thought of as black water and is very dangerous because of the genuine possibility for the transport of fatal pathogens. If gray and white water is not cleaned up and aired out within forty-eight hours, mold will begin to grow and cause more significant issues. Therefore, it is essential to call us at SERVPRO of South Cobb right away when you see the water has settled into your ceilings, floors, or walls. Some water mitigation techniques that should be performed include:  

• Water extraction
• Restoration of water damage
• Inspection for mold, remediation, and removal
• Carpet cleaning
• Upholstery cleaning
• Drying of your home, including flooring and contents
• Ventilation and dehumidification
• Stain and odor removal
• Antimicrobial treatment

At SERVPRO, we are available 24/7, as we understand how important water mitigation is within the first forty-eight hours. As water damage restoration IICRC trained experts, we should be the first ones out to your home. This allows us to find any signs of mold and contamination and to stop them from developing any further and creating additional damage that can be even more costly. 

We will minimize the damage by taking objects of value out of the home and cleaning the area for the total removal of excess water. Our water removal equipment is top of the line, and we always staff enough crew, so the damages are handled efficiently. Once water extraction is done, we dry and sanitize the area, so your home is left smelling fresh and clean. Lastly, we renovate the space, so the investment in your property value remains sound. 

Flood damage is never anything to take lightly, so that is why our staff at SERVPRO of South Cobb is standing by to help you whenever you need it. Just give us a call by dialing (770) 739-2355 as soon as possible after your home suffers from flood damage of any kind, and we will come and fix the problem for you.

Factors Affect Drying After Storm Damage

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Water Removal equipment used to dry Smyrna home.

To Mitigate Storm Effects, SERVPRO Suggest Immediate Water Extraction

Flooding as a result of storm damage, many objects and parts of your home will be soaked to differing degrees. Some areas may be very lightly touched by moisture, and will, as a result, dry out quickly. Others, however, may be inundated and soaked through by floodwaters, including porous materials such as carpeting and fabrics. Aside from the sheer volume of water, some other factors will also significantly affect the rate at which your home dries out. 

Water Extraction 

The most important part of the drying process for storm damage in Smyrna is bulk water removal. Our drying technology, while thorough and adaptable, is by nature capable of the removal of far less water than a traditional pumping system. For example, our truck-mounted water extractors can move up to 36,000 gallons per day, but our drying systems are often limited to around 30 gallons daily under optimal conditions. We prioritize getting IICRC trained service crews on-scene within hours of an initial call, so to be sure to keep drying times as low as possible. 

Air Movement 

We use high-powered air movers to create strong currents of air in a drying room. These capture water droplets and vapor from all surfaces and are then coupled with thermal or chemical dehumidifiers to take the water back out of the air and into a holding tank or piped directly to the exterior of the structure.

Temperature 

Temperature profoundly affects the rate at which water evaporates, and thus the drying rate of your home. The ideal drying temperature is typically anywhere from 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit, as at any lower, our air movers will not be able to pick up much moisture. Any higher and the air becomes too humid for optimal results.

Relative Humidity--RH

Finally, the most important factor is the relative humidity. Many of our tools and even the factors described above are related to and designed to accommodate moisture. One device we use to measure this important component of drying is a Thermo hygrometer. Humidity must be kept at a relatively ordinary level, so as to encourage fast evaporation and removal but also to avoid further damage to the room. 

SERVPRO of South Cobb carries advanced equipment and specialized techniques to help dry out your home as fast as possible following a storm. If your home has experienced storm damage, call us ASAP at (770) 739-2355.

Measuring the Size of a Potential Storm at Home

3/2/2020 (Permalink)

The most common types of storms include: thunderstorms, hail storms, blizzards, tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes.

Lightning strikes are 50,000° Fahrenheit, which is five times hotter than the surface of the sun. That’s a terrifying fact knowing how often these strikes hit the surface of the Earth. While storm videos are cool to watch, it’s less fun when the storm we’re watching are headed our way. There are many types of storms that can affect our lives. The most common types of storms include: thunderstorms, hail storms, blizzards, tornadoes, floods, and hurricanes. Each storm can make itself obvious from the formation of the sky when it occurs. For example, a thunderstorm often presents itself as an anvil shaped cloud at first, low and flat at the bottom while standing tall. An easy way to tell it’s a blizzard and not just regular snow is the visibility. Blizzards lessen the visibility for at last three hours, usually longer. Hail storms can present a variety of danger as the hail itself can be as small as peas and as large as watermelons. While larger hail can have more powerful damage, crushing cars, roofs, windows, etc, small hail can also break windows and create holes in roofs. Fortunately, storms may cause inevitable damage to our homes but not irreversible damage. Storm damage assessments are not hard to receive, especially from specialists like your local SERVPRO of South Cobb. It can be fun to know more about types of storms when we’re aware of how close a storm damage professional is, and how easy it is for a company like SERVPRO to return our home as if the damage never occurred.

Proper Mitigation of Flood Damage Helps Eliminate Problems in Atlanta Real Estate

2/26/2018 (Permalink)

Atlanta Flooding Gets Relief from Fast SERVPRO Water Extraction

SERVPRO Provides Fast Emergency Flood Water Removal and Restoration

Any location can experience problems with bad weather, and Atlanta residents know that the area's landscape affects our climate in both
good and bad ways. When severe weather damages a home or other property, acting quick can help to reduce related damages.

For Atlanta homeowners, flood damage can eclipse almost any other disaster endured by a family. Not only can floods happen instantaneously, but responding must also happen just as rapidly. A delayed reaction can allow countless other problematic situations to
develop. These include mold and mildew growth, secondary water damage, wood rot of structural beams, and damage to wiring, personal belongings, and electronic appliances.

Our Green Fleet is Faster To Any Size Disaster, including flooding catastrophes. After receiving a call, our team leaves almost immediately to ensure we lose no time in starting the mitigation work your property requires. We keep our equipment in excellent shape and always ready.

Because floods carry harmful and injurious items with it, we recommend that you always keep contact with the water and any saturated materials to a minimum. Hazards that did not exist inside your home before the flood can also develop. Electrical hazards and broken portions of trim can remain hidden until after an injury occurs. Because of these hazards, our technicians wear personal protection equipment (PPE). Our other equipment centers on mitigating the flood's havoc.

Pumping happens quickly, and we follow this up with additional extraction methods. Making sure that your home becomes dry swiftly means we can also begin checking for damage to areas of your home and removing those areas that require restoration. We do our best to keep this minimized, as reparative work carries a smaller financial burden, gets completed much faster, and eliminates the need to match replacement materials.

Other aspects of flood damage mitigation that affected homeowners can expect include removal and disposal of ruined foodstuffs. Getting
these out of the home quickly reduces the likelihood of rodents and other vermin becoming attracted to your home. Cleaning the rest of
your kitchen protects your family's health upon your return.

The professional technicians at SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade receive IICRC certifications in fields related to the mitigation of flood damage. Our 24-hour service line can be contacted at (770) 739-2355 whenever flooding occurs in the Cascade Heights, Austell,
Furniture City and surrounding areas.

Information on this area by clicking here.

Determining Flood Damage In Atlanta

1/10/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding is a normal occurrence in Georgia, but it does not have to mean you have to write off your home afterward.

Flood Damage In Your Home

Removing storm water from an Atlanta home is much like removing water from a broken water heater. The equipment needed is the same, but there are additional precautions to take depending if this outside water is contaminated. The same concerns are there when it comes to restoring the property.

SERVPRO understands that after flood damage, Atlanta homeowners want to get back into their house, and to their life before they woke up to find ankle-deep water in their living room and kitchen. To make certain we can provide a safe, clean environment; our restoration team first checks to see if the water is Clean, Gray, or Black.

Clean flood water contains no threatening microbes and does not pose a risk to the health of the homeowners or other residents. Team members bring in the same pumps and extraction wands used to clean up after a broken kitchen sink sends water across the linoleum. Clean water can become contaminated if it stands too long, so we begin to remove it as soon as we get the first pump-off our truck. We also start to lower the humidity level since dry air also inhibits microbial growth.

Gray water contains low levels of microbes and other contaminants. The majority of them is usually urine or wash water forced out of overwhelmed sewers after a severe storm. This results in rapid microbial growth and the bacteria or fungi pose a threat to anyone who comes in contact with it. These same microbes can spread to walls and furniture as the water recedes and become a threat to property. To kill the microbes and prevent spreading them, SERVPRO technicians spray an anti-fungal agent across the surface of the water and nearby property before taking any other actions.

Blackwater is a severe threat to people and property. Here, the flood water has drawn in everything from the surrounding area as it rises. That includes animal waste, carcasses, and even sewage when the force of the water splits lines open. Since this contamination is obvious, our technicians pull on protective gear like rubber suits and even breathing gear. Once protected, they spray the water and nearby property before bringing in any pumps or other extraction gear.

For both Black and Gray water, we pump out the water into the nearest, functioning sewer opening. If there is not one available, then we pump it into a tanker truck for removal to the nearest wastewater treatment plant.

Flooding is a normal occurrence in Georgia, but it does not have to mean you have to write off your home afterward. SERVPRO of Southwest Cobb / Cascade is here to help return your residence and your life to normal as quickly as we can safely do so. If you need us, call today at (770) 739-2355.

Visit https://www.atlantaga.gov/ for more about Atlanta.

When Storms or Floods Hit Cobb County, SERVPRO of SW Cobb/Cascade is Ready

9/1/2016 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of SW Cobb/Cascade specializes in storm and flood damage restoration. Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response
Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms
When storms hit Cobb County, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today 770 739 2355