How to Rescue Your Personal Library After Water Damage

10/14/2024 (Permalink)

If you’re ever in doubt or need assistance, SERVPRO of North Tampa/Magdalene is here to help with expert restoration services tailored to your needs.

Water damage can strike unexpectedly, whether it's from a leaky roof, a burst pipe, or even a flood. When it happens, one of the most distressing losses can be your books and important documents. For those in Tampa, FL, where heavy rains and storms are common, knowing how to save these items can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to save water-damaged books and documents and why quick action is critical.

The Immediate Steps to Take

When you first discover that your books and documents have been exposed to water, it’s crucial to act fast. The longer they stay wet, the more likely they are to suffer irreversible damage.

Remove Items from Water and Moist Areas

The first step is to remove the books and documents from the water or the damp environment as quickly as possible. Place them on a dry surface and gently blot away excess water with clean, dry towels. Avoid pressing too hard, as this can cause further damage to fragile pages.

Air Drying vs. Freezing

For books and documents that are only slightly damp, air drying can be effective. Stand books upright and fan the pages slightly to allow airflow between them. You can also place paper towels between the pages to absorb moisture, changing them frequently.

For heavily soaked items, freezing can be a lifesaver. Freezing the items helps prevent mold growth and further deterioration until you can properly dry them. Place each book or document in a plastic bag before freezing to protect them from ice buildup.

Why Time is of the Essence

The clock starts ticking as soon as your books and documents are exposed to water. According to the National Archives, mold can begin to grow on wet paper within 48 hours, making it critical to address water damage as soon as possible.

How to Handle Books and Documents After Initial Drying

Once you've taken the initial steps to dry your books and documents, it's important to handle them with care to avoid further damage. Here’s what you can do next:

Gentle Drying Techniques

After the initial drying phase, your books and documents may still need additional care to fully dry out. Continue air drying by placing the items in a well-ventilated area with circulating air. You can use fans to increase airflow, but avoid direct contact with the items as this could cause warping or tearing. For valuable or fragile items, consider consulting a professional conservator.

Flatten Warped Pages

Books and documents that have been exposed to water often develop warping or curling as they dry. Once the items are mostly dry, you can gently press them flat under a weight. Place a clean, dry cloth or paper towel between the pages and the weight to prevent any sticking or further damage. This process can take several days, but it helps to restore the original shape of your books and documents.

When to Call in the Professionals

While many books and documents can be salvaged with careful at-home methods, some situations may require professional help. If your items are of high value—whether monetary or sentimental—or if the damage is severe, it’s wise to contact a professional restoration service like SERVPRO of North Tampa/Magdalene. We have the expertise and equipment to handle even the most challenging water damage scenarios.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Personal Library

In Tampa, FL, where the risk of water damage is ever-present due to storms and high humidity, it’s important to be prepared. By knowing how to act quickly and understanding when to seek professional help, you can save your personal library and other important documents from being lost forever.

Remember, time is of the essence when dealing with water-damaged items. If you’re ever in doubt or need assistance, SERVPRO of North Tampa/Magdalene is here to help with expert restoration services tailored to your needs.

Is Remodeling Necessary After Water Damage?

6/20/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on your home, leaving behind ugly stains, warped surfaces, and even structural issues. When faced with the aftermath of water damage, many homeowners wonder whether remodeling is necessary to restore their homes to their former glory. While every situation is unique, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether to embark on a remodeling journey after water damage.

Assess the Extent of Damage

The first step in determining whether remodeling is necessary after water damage is to assess the extent of the damage to your home. If the damage is limited to a small area and can be easily repaired, remodeling may not be necessary. However, if the damage is widespread and affects multiple areas of your home, remodeling may be the best option to fully restore your property.

Consider the Source of Water

The source of water that caused the damage can also influence your decision to remodel. Clean water from sources such as burst pipes or overflowing sinks may not pose significant risks, but water from sewage backups or floodwaters can contain harmful bacteria and contaminants. In cases where the water damage is caused by contaminated water, remodeling may be necessary to ensure the safety and health of your family.

Evaluate the Condition of Building Materials

Water damage can cause significant structural damage to building materials such as drywall, insulation, and wood framing. If these materials are severely damaged or compromised, remodeling may be necessary to replace them and restore the structural integrity of your home. Additionally, water damage can lead to mold growth, which can pose a variety of risks and may require extensive remediation and remodeling efforts to address.

Assess the Value of Your Home

Another factor to consider when deciding whether to remodel after water damage is the value of your home. If your home has sentimental value or is located in a desirable neighborhood, investing in remodeling may be worthwhile to preserve its value and appeal. On the other hand, if your home is older or in need of updates, water damage may provide an opportunity to make improvements and increase its resale value.

Consult with Restoration Professionals

Ultimately, the decision to remodel after water damage should be based on a thorough assessment of your home's condition and your specific needs and priorities. Consulting with experienced restoration professionals can help you understand the extent of the damage and explore your options for restoration and remodeling. They can provide expert guidance and recommendations tailored to your situation, helping you make informed decisions about how best to proceed.

In conclusion, while remodeling may not always be necessary after water damage, it can be an effective way to restore your home and prevent future issues. By assessing the extent of the damage, considering the source of water, evaluating the condition of building materials, and consulting with restoration professionals, you can make an informed decision about whether remodeling is the right choice for your home.

7 Steps to Preventing Water Damage

8/15/2023 (Permalink)

7 Steps to Preventing Water Damage

According to a study done by the Insurance Institute, homeowners' highest insurance claims are water damage. Leaky pipes and, in often cases, appliances cause millions of dollars of damage in freezing weather and storms. While you're on vacation, it's no surprise that a leaky pipe can burst and generate hundreds of dollars of repairs.

Step 1. Check for Leaks Before Going on Vacation

Check pipes under your sinks and the water heater for any rust, cracks, or damage. You should check the seals by your windows to make sure there are no cracks that might cause water damage. Additionally, check the exterior of your house and see what condition your roof shingles are in. If any show damage, getting them replaced before leaving for vacation is a good idea.

Step 2. Inspect Your Major Appliances

You must inspect the hoses connected to essential appliances in your home, such as dishwashers, washers/dryers, and refrigerators. If there's any damage, you should get the hose replaced before you leave to prevent extensive water damage.

Step 3. Clear Out Your Gutters

Make sure to get any debris out of your rain gutters before leaving for vacation. This way, you won't have any blockages that can cause damage while you're away.

Step 4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

Make sure it is in good condition and clear any debris from clogging the pit. Run a few tests, listen to the sounds it makes, and ensure that the pump's water is going outside. Install a battery-powered backup in case there is a power outage while you're away.

Step 5. Insulate Exposed Pipes

If you plan on being away from your home during the winter, it can be a good idea to insulate any exposed pipes. This will prevent them from freezing while you are away.

Step 6. Get Someone to Check on Your Home

Call a friend or hire a professional house sitter to check on your home every week while you are gone. Instruct them to ensure that the heat is always on if your vacation is during the winter. Also, show them where the water main is in case of an emergency.

Step 7. Turn Off the Water

Lastly, if you cannot find someone to check on your home, you should turn off the water main. Drain the pipes so that they do not freeze or burst during the colder months. To do this, run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water. Open the cabinets under your sink to let the warm air surround the pipes.

If you experience water damage while you are away from your home, contact SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene as soon as possible at (813) 694-9082.

3 Step Plan for a Flooded Furnace

8/20/2022 (Permalink)

Document the Damage

The furnace can be the most costly loss in a flood, other damaged property also needs to be considered when documenting damage for insurance. Use the following process to record losses and assign values in a notebook or spreadsheet.

• Photograph the damage.
• Write down the serial number or another unique identifier if available.
• Assign a value.

Don’t forget to include items that may have little to no monetary value but are still of high value to your business, like important documents. Search professional recovery services within the area to save irreplaceable items such as documents or photographs.

Investigate Coverage and Decide to Repair or Replace

A burst pipe resulting in a flooded furnace is an insurable event, so be sure to check with your provider that you are covered. If a natural disaster occurred, contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency to inquire if government aid is available. FEMA offers financing options to those who qualify for HVAC and furnace replacement costs.

According to the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute, flooded furnaces should be replaced rather than repaired. For a professional opinion, contact a qualified heating and cooling contractor to inspect the damage. They may advise that the furnace will be operational after a total dry-out and minor electrical repair. However, the life of the unit reduces. You likely don’t want to choose repair over replacement and have a related problem surface a couple of years later, long after the claim closes.

Take Care of the Air Ducts

The air quality from a furnace is often only as good as the ducts it travels through. Call SERVPRO of North Tampa/Magdalene at (813) 694-9082 to schedule a professional air duct cleaning to ensure ducts are clean, dry, and free of mold and debris.

Tasks associated with a furnace flood are something nobody wants on their to-do list. Take this systematic approach to efficiently ensure the return of a safe and comfortable environment in your commercial or residential property in Tampa, FL, for years to come.

What to Do If You Suspect Mold in My Home or Business?

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

The mold removal protocol encompasses specific guidelines and should be given to a mold remediation company, like SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene.

What to Do If You Suspect Mold in My Home or Business?

If you see visible mold, do not disturb it. You can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. When mold is disturbed, the mold can release microscopic mold spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

Do:

• Avoid affected areas as much as possible.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact a professional for mold remediation services.

Don’t:

• Don’t touch, disturb, or blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold—it doesn’t remove the mold, it only removes the appearance of it.

Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely.

If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today at (813) 694-9082 !

Mold Remediation Procedure in your Texas Home

When a homeowner encounters a problem with mold growth in their Texas home, they should call a mold inspection service to administer air quality testing, which will determine the severity of the problem. After the inspection, a mold remediation can begin. 

Initial Assessment

When a mold remediation procedure is started, an initial assessment is administered. This should be done by a specialized technician not affiliated with the mold remediation company for the client’s protection. This service detects mold spores and growth in an area. Once the air quality test has been finished, a homeowner will be given a set of written instructions for proper mold removal called a protocol. The mold removal protocol encompasses specific guidelines and should be given to a mold remediation company, like SERVPRO of Lake Arlington, to execute the mold removal, cleaning, and cleanup. 

Mold Removal

To ensure mold spores do not spread, our mold remediation technicians will establish barriers throughout the home. The technicians will then remove any porous surfaces that have tested positive for mold, which could include drywall, carpet, carpet padding, and insulation. Mold remediation specialists will then clean and sanitize all surfaces followed by an application of an anti-fungal paint or product.

Air Scrubbing and Clearance Testing

Air scrubbing and clearance testing are the final steps in the mold remediation process. When all of the contaminated materials have been removed from the home, the technicians will reduce mold spores in the air by using air scrubbers which effectively restore healthy air levels within the home. After the process has been completed, the technicians will perform a final clearance test to the home. A SERVPRO technician then will sign a document that certifies the mold remediation has been administered and was successful, which is the final step in the procedure.  The homeowner can safely return to his home and enjoy the fresh, clean air.

4 Things to Know About Standing Flood Water

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of North Tampa Magdalene at (813) 694-9082 for help. Our professional team will help you every step of the way.

After a flood, you may wonder what to do next. It's normal to feel lost, confused and stressed after a flood impacts your area. How do you prepare for water damage or contaminants in black water? Here are four aspects of standing flood water you should know about.

1. Water Can Be Electrically Charged

Some overflow waters can be electrically charged. If there is working power in your home, you need to take the utmost care to ensure the water isn’t pulsing with electricity. When it comes time to have flood water restoration professionals help you, your safest option is to turn off all power until you or they have finished cleanup.

2. Pathogenic Contamination

Blackwater is a major category of consideration for standing water, particularly after a backed-up sewer or storm. This floodwater occurs after 24 hours and is considered to be full of pathogenic contaminants. This water can be full of garbage, mold, and even sewage.

3. Look Out For Mold Growth

Mold can grow in as little as 24 hours and as late as 72 hours after the water has been stagnant. Warm, moist areas tend to be perfect for mold growth. After a flood, one of the most common types of damage people have to deal with is the mold that grows on everything from furniture and other items in the house—to walls themselves.

4. Get That Water Out

Removing the water should always be the first step when it comes to cleanup. It’s essential to make sure the black water is taken out as soon as possible before it ends up further damaging your home. Never let water sit in your Tampa, FL home; use a professional to help clean it up.

The damage caused by a storm can be intense, and it can be challenging to know which steps to take when you have extensive water damage. You don't have to go through this process alone. Call SERVPRO of North Tampa Magdalene at (813) 694-9082 for additional information regarding storm damage. Our professional team will help you every step of the way. We really are Here To Help®.

Prevent Water Damage While on Vacation

1/24/2022 (Permalink)

7 Steps to Preventing Water Damage While Away

According to a study done by the Insurance Institute, homeowners' highest insurance claims are water damage. Leaky or busted pipes and appliances cause millions of dollars in damage during freezing weather and storms. Leaky pipes don't take a vacation when you do and can burst, generating hundreds of dollars of repairs. Prevent water damage while your on vacation by using this checklist:

Step 1. Check for Leaks Before Going on Vacation

Check pipes under your sinks and the water heater for any rust, cracks, or damage. You should check the seals by your windows to make sure there are no cracks. Additionally, check the exterior of your house and see the condition of your roof shingles. If any show damage, getting them replaced before leaving for vacation is a good idea.

Step 2. Inspect Your Major Appliances

You must inspect the hoses connected to essential appliances in your home, such as dishwashers, washers/dryers, and refrigerators.

Step 3. Clear Out Your Gutters

Make sure to get any debris out of your rain gutters before leaving for vacation. This way, you won't have any blockages that can cause overflows which can lead to foundation problems and water damages while you're away.

Step 4. Inspect Your Sump Pump

Make sure it is in good condition and clear any debris from clogging the pit. Run a few tests, listen to the sounds it makes, and ensure that the pump's water is going outside. Install a battery-powered backup in case there is a power outage while you're away.

Step 5. Insulate Exposed Pipes

If you plan on being away from your home during the winter, it can be a good idea to insulate any exposed pipes. This will prevent them from freezing while you are away.

Step 6. Get Someone to Check on Your Home

Call a friend or hire a professional house sitter to check on your home every week while you are gone. Instruct them to ensure that the heat is always on if your vacation is during the winter. Also, show them where the water main is in case of an emergency.

Step 7. Ease Your Mind By Turning Off the Water

Lastly, if you cannot find someone to check on your home, you should turn off the water main. Drain the pipes so that they do not freeze or burst during the colder months. To do this, run the water and flush your toilet after you turn off the water. Open the cabinets under your sink to let the warm air surround the pipes.

If you experience water damage while you are away from your home, contact SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene as soon as possible at (813) 694-9082.

Water Damage Emergency Tips

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene has the equipment to clean up the most severe cases of water damage. Call us 24/7, 7 days a week at (831) 694-9082.

During a water damage emergency, quick action is crucial. SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene responds immediately and uses advanced equipment and techniques to remove the water. We monitor and document the drying process to verify your property's water damage restoration. After any water damage situation, your primary focus should be safety:

• Determine if it is safe to stay in the home or business. 
• Stay informed with the latest weather information, especially when the National Weather Service issues flash flood watches and warnings.
• Be mindful of electrical and "slip and fall" hazards.
• Remember, floodwater is not safe water.  
• Contact your homeowner’s insurance and/or flood insurance. 
• Call SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene at (831) 694-9082 for water damage restoration. 

 What to do After Flooding

Follow the recommendations below to protect your home or business from further water damage after an emergency. Wait out the storm in safety before taking action. The best practice is to check the local and national weather reports before cleaning up after a flood. 

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting. 
• Wipe water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items. 
• Prop up wet upholstery and cushions. 
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. 
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer. 
• Gather loose items from floors and store them in a dry place.

What Not to do After Flooding

You should never put yourself or your family at risk to clean up your home or business after a flood or storm. Always use your best judgment. If the property or an area of the property is not safe to enter, call SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene for professional help. We advise against the following after a flood.

• Do not drive on flooded roads, it only takes two feet of water to lift and float most automobiles.
• Prohibit children from playing near high water, storm drains, or ditches.
• Avoid using your household vacuum to remove water. 
• Do not use television or other electric household appliances. 
• Stay away from rooms where ceilings are sagging.

If disaster does strike, trust your local SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene to be by your side when you need us. We are a phone call away at (831) 694-9082 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Drying out Water Damage

12/10/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene can dry out water damage in your home or business. Call today! (813) 694-9082

After a plumbing disaster, North Tampa / Magdalene homeowners need a water-vac to pull water off the floor, open the doors and windows, and rent a rug shampooer from the local big box store; a simple DIY project. However, after major water damage, restoring a home takes a professional service. SERVPRO restoration specialists train to know which drying methods and equipment they need to use, and when to use them. We use room measurements, temperature, and relative humidity to determine the optimal number of air movers and dehumidifiers to dry your home or business. We’ll carefully monitor the progress using moisture meters until the materials return to acceptable drying goals.

Water damage restoration all comes down to humidity. Humidity levels determine the level of water vapor in a home compared to its capacity. A level of 60 percent or higher indicates the air is saturated, which dramatically slows evaporation and increases drying time. Specialists use dehumidifiers to reduce the humidity level in each affected room. Working dehumidifiers can lower the level up to 20 percent every 24 hours.

Evaporation is the natural process of water converting to vapor. With large amounts of water, it is slow. Our SERVPRO specialists use pumps and smaller extraction devices to remove the bulk of the standing water. SERVPRO technicians are trained to get the amount of water below two inches in depth; at which the rate of evaporation increases. Another tactic our specialists use to augment the rate of evaporation is to use high-speed fans to increase movement, forcing saturated air outside the home.

Air movers and fans' combined effort to increase air movement is useful, but the temperature is an essential factor in the drying process. The preferred range to a dry property is 70 to 90 degrees. Our technicians will try to engage the HVAC system if it is operational. If not, we will use space heaters to raise the internal temperature. They monitor the temperature to keep it under 80 degrees on the first day; since a higher temperature can increase the humidity. SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene can complete the drying process and continue to restore your home or business by cleaning, sanitizing, and repairing any damages. 

At SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene, we use every tool and method available, ensuring every residence is dry and a safe condition for families to live in once again. If you have recent water damage in your home, call (813) 694-9082 to schedule a visit. We are here for you 24/7, 7 days a week.

3 Step Plan for a Flooded Furnace

11/5/2021 (Permalink)

A small amount of water from a broken pipe can flood a functional basement and result in a water damage nightmare, especially if the water permeates your furnace. SERVPRO of North Tampa/Magdalene identified three steps to help keep you stress-free and organized when dealing with a flooded furnace. Following these steps will make the claims process run smoothly and help your business or home get up and running again.

Document the Damage

The furnace can be the most costly loss in a flood, other damaged property also needs to be considered when documenting damage for insurance. Use the following process to record losses and assign values in a notebook or spreadsheet.

• Photograph the damage.
• Write down the serial number or another unique identifier if available.
• Assign a value.

Don’t forget to include items that may have little to no monetary value but are still of high value to your business, like important documents. Search professional recovery services within the area to save irreplaceable items such as documents or photographs.

Investigate Coverage and Decide to Repair or Replace

A burst pipe resulting in a flooded furnace is an insurable event, so be sure to check with your provider that you are covered. If a natural disaster occurred, contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency to inquire if government aid is available. FEMA offers financing options to those who qualify for HVAC and furnace replacement costs.

According to the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute, flooded furnaces should be replaced rather than repaired. For a professional opinion, contact a qualified heating and cooling contractor to inspect the damage. They may advise that the furnace will be operational after a total dry-out and minor electrical repair. However, the life of the unit reduces. You likely don’t want to choose repair over replacement and have a related problem surface a couple of years later, long after the claim closes.

Take Care of the Air Ducts

The air quality from a furnace is often only as good as the ducts it travels through. Call SERVPRO of North Tampa/Magdalene at (813) 694-9082 to schedule a professional air duct cleaning to ensure ducts are clean, dry, and free of mold and debris.

Tasks associated with a furnace flood are something nobody wants on their to-do list. Take this systematic approach to efficiently ensure the return of a safe and comfortable environment in your commercial or residential property in Tampa, FL, for years to come.

Freezing Temperatures Can Mean Freezing Pipes. What Can You Do?

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Winter is Here, and There're Bursting Pipes Everywhere!

As temperatures drop below freezing, water pipes at your home and your workplace run the risk of freezing and bursting. When this happens, flooding and damage can occur to the property and possessions. Although bursting pipes can lead to many issues, the good thing is that this is avoidable. Here are a few tips to help safeguard against freezing pipes:

Add Extra Insulation

Pipes located in the basement or attic need protection from freezing temperatures. Adding extra insulation, such as fiberglass or foam rubber, can be a solution for exposed pipes in these areas.

Caulk Holes and Cracks

All holes and cracks near pipes should remain sealed to keep cold air and keep warm air inside. You're able to check on the inside and the outside of the building.

Let Your Faucet Drip

Opening the faucet can relieve pressure in the pipe. This keeps the pressure from building up and reducing the chances that the pipe bursts and you have a flooding situation.

Open Cabinet Doors

Warm air is circulated around pipes if cabinet doors are kept open. If the air around the pipe is kept warm, the chances of water freezing within the line decreases.

Keep the Heat Up

Keep your household or business temperature above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, even when there's no one occupying the building for periods.

If disaster strikes and damage occurs by frozen pipes flooding your property, our team here at SERVPRO of North Tampa / Magdalene is ready to spring into action and make it "Like it never even happened." Call us anytime. We're prepared to respond to your emergency 24/7.