Recent Water Damage Posts

Relying on SERVPRO® to Recover From Disaster | SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte

2/1/2024 (Permalink)

heavy rain pounding down on a blacktop surface SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte is Here to Help® when any disaster strikes!

When disaster strikes, it always seems unexpected and can be really overwhelming. We often aren’t prepared and that can lead to further issues and a longer recovery period.

Disasters can happen when Mother Nature decides to bring a strong storm to town or they can even occur from something as simple as an overlooked leaky faucet in your utility room.

However they happen, having a reliable restoration company to handle your recovery is vital. That’s why SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte is here to help! A single phone call to our team will jumpstart your entire recovery process and we will take it from there.

Understanding Disasters

Depending on the particular disaster, you could be dealing with minor damage or be faced with seemingly insurmountable destruction. Unfortunately, acting quickly is crucial no matter your situation, otherwise the damage will continue to get worse as time goes on.

If your home floods during a heavy rain, it can cause structural damage but can also cause mold growth and rot over time. If you suffer a house fire, the initial destruction will be apparent, but you will also be left with water damage and lingering soot and smoke odors.

The longer you wait to address these issues, the worse they can get and recovery can become more costly at this point as well. Our team is proudly available 247 to respond to your call for help and we truly hope you call as soon as you suffer any sort of damage.

Relying on SERVPRO Every Step of the Way

When disaster strikes, pick up the phone and call us after you have determined that your family and neighbors are safe. We will get started by asking all kinds of questions about your situation so we can gather the right team and the right tools for your restoration. After that, we hop in our trucks and make our way to you!

Our highly trained team of experts will evaluate your damage situation firsthand when we arrive and then we will get to work on repairing, restoring and drying out your home. We only use the latest and most advanced equipment, so you can rest assured that your home is in good hands whenever one of our classic green trucks is in your drive.

If your roof suffers damage in a storm, we will work quickly to remove your possessions from the affected area while also tarping off the damaged section. If you experience a flood, we will prioritize removing standing water while also focusing on drying out your fragile or soft possessions.

We are even trained to handle any demolition projects if the damage is too extensive! We can tear down extremely damaged parts of your home and then rebuild them to exactly how they looked before the disaster occurred.

Total restoration also means that you only are working with us throughout your recovery process. Since we are trained in every aspect of disaster recovery, there is no need to be working with multiple different contractors to get the job done. We will take care of it all.

When the rain comes pouring in or a house fire causes chaos in the middle of the night, call SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte for a fast and thorough restoration.

Have you experienced a disaster and need restoration? Make one call to our office to start recovery fast.

Discovering Water Leaks With Confidence | SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

close up of condensation on window pane and ledge Water damage can happen anywhere in your home. Call SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte to restore water damage on your property 24/7, 365.

Water is flowing in and out of your home all of the time. It flows out of your taps when you wash your hands, it drains down your utility sink when you run a load of laundry and it flows into your ice maker to slowly become ice cubes that will eventually chill your drinks.

Because of this close relationship that we have with water, the risk of suffering from water damage at any point is always constant. While it is not possible to always prevent water damage from occurring, knowing where it often starts can help you track down a problem quicker and with more confidence.

Your Sink Lines

You probably don’t think much of it when you wash your hands and watch the water flow down the drain, but that water has to go somewhere! You have water lines all over your home that are constantly pulling used water away and replacing it with fresh water. As your home gets older, these lines can start to experience wear and tear and can suffer leaks at any time.

Once a water leak starts under a cupboard or beneath a sink, it can quickly seep into your walls and floors and leak throughout your entire room or area of your house. Try to make it a habit to check your water lines when you are cleaning and address potential issues right away so you can prevent a much larger problem later.

Around Your Appliances

Having appliances in our home to help us accomplish tasks can be such a time saver! We rely on dishwashers, washing machines and water heaters on a daily basis, which also means that they could leak any day without much warning.

These types of leaks can be hard to spot right away because they often start underneath or behind your appliances. Try to pull your appliances away from the wall often to check for signs of damage like water spots, puddles or mold growth.

Under Floors and Behind Walls

Water pipes are located all over your home, but most of them are tucked away behind your walls. Unfortunately, water leaks can happen there as well and that can be really troublesome for your home. Over time, those water leaks can get into your floors and can be really hard to dry out on your own.

Water leaks behind walls and under floors often don’t show signs until the damage has already occurred. Because of that, keep an eye out for any dark spots on your walls or a musty odor that indicates a mold problem.

Your Windows

Experiencing occasional condensation on your windows is normal, but that condensation can linger or drip down onto your windowsills, which can cause the wood around your window casings and trim to swell and warp. Run your fingers along your windows after a rain and wipe down lingering condensation right away.

Moisture can also get into your home through your windows if there are any small gaps or cracks around the windows themselves. Even a small leak can build up over time and lead to serious structural integrity issues around your windows.

Unfortunately, not all water damage can be prevented. That’s where SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte comes into play! Our team offers quick and reliable water damage restoration no matter the extent of your damage and we are ready to help you 247.

Don’t ignore signs of water damage! Call SERVPRO® for a quick restoration.

Taking Control of Standing Water at Your Business | SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte

12/1/2023 (Permalink)

Ceiling fell through, water damage and standing water. Big water damage, busted pipe from 2nd floor came flooding the 1st floor.

You are going through your regular routine in the morning by unlocking doors, turning on lights and getting things set up for another busy day at work when you start to notice a musty smell. Is it just stagnant air or something more sinister?

Water leaks can happen at any time, and can quickly cause water damage as well as create a musty odor that lingers in the air. No matter how deep the water is or how widespread the situation has become, it can be an overwhelming discovery to make.

Regardless of whether your water damage occurs due to a plumbing failure or a burst pipe, a quick recovery is necessary to reduce your risk of long-term closures or costly repairs.

Addressing the Damage

Discovering that your business has flooded can be very unnerving. Even if you do everything right and have your place inspected and maintained well, water has a mind of its own sometimes.

Stay calm and try to follow these easy steps to focus on getting things cleaned up before the problem gets worse:

1. Stay safe. Your top priority is always your safety and your employees’ safety. Stay out of the water and assess the situation from higher ground, and then get us on the phone right away. You should also snap some photos of the damage to help make the insurance claims process a little easier.

2. Control the disaster. Acting quickly is always necessary when it comes to water disasters, because mold and mildew can set in really quickly. Identify the source of the water and locate the appropriate water valve to shut off the flow of water. If you can’t track it down quickly, turn off the main water valve for your entire building for the time being.

3. Start the drying process. Floodwater can pick up dangerous materials or substances as it flows onto your floors, so use caution and try to avoid walking through it when you can. Move around the area carefully as you open windows to start the ventilation, and section off the space to keep your customers and employees out of harm’s way.

Work With the Best

Once our talented team arrives, we will get right to work removing the standing water while assessing the rest of the situation. We will also start the process of communicating with your insurance company at this time as well.

Our goal is to focus on all aspects of your recovery so you can focus on next steps for your business. We will do our best to close off only the affected section of your building so you can still operate in whatever capacity that you are able in the meantime.

We will make sure your property is restored quickly and efficiently so you can open back up completely faster! Our team will work hard for you from start to finish so you can overcome your water disaster right away.

Do you need repairs after a water disaster in your commercial building? Contact us to get dried out quickly.

Top Tips for Addressing Water Damage in Your Home | SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

Pool of water sitting on top of a herringbone patterned wood floor with furniture nearby If you discover water damage in your home or business, call SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte right away.

Water impacts our daily lives in an incredible way. Even if we aren’t actively thinking about it every day, we use water to perform almost every task around the house. Doing the dishes, cooking, cleaning and even giving the family dog a bath requires the constant flow of water at our fingertips.

Because of that daily need, the possibility of experiencing water damage is also a constant in your home. Water damage can occur due to an appliance malfunction, house failure like a busted pipe or even during a strong storm from Mother Nature. Strong storms can bring hail, wind and heavy rain through the area at this time of the year and quickly wreak havoc on our homes.

Taking the necessary steps to prepare your home to prevent damage altogether is always ideal, but that’s simply just not possible all of the time. By reacting quickly and calling your friendly SERVPRO® team, you are doing what is needed to take care of your home.

Your Reaction Time

Coming upon a water disaster at your home is often overwhelming and frustrating, but don’t wait too long to take action! Acting quickly can help you avoid lasting damages and a costly repair. Water is notorious for seeping and leaking down walls, under floors and through ceilings in minutes after the problem begins.

Your first goal should be to stop the water at its source. Locate the connecting water valve and shut it off, and then shut off electricity to the surrounding area. If your leak is coming from the ceiling due to some sort of storm damage or roof issue, set out a bucket to catch the water while you wait for the storm to pass.

Remember, if you have standing water in your house, do not walk through it until you are 100% sure the electricity has been turned off. Live electrical wires are a serious danger.

Once the situation has been initially controlled, give us a call! We are trained to respond quickly, and we are available 247 to help start your recovery process.

Our Industry-Leading Drying Process

Our first phone call will involve a lot of questions as we create a restoration plan tailored to your specific disaster. We will also ask you to take some photos to help us and to help make your insurance claim process go smoother.

Our team of experts will get started as soon as we get to your house. Some of our team will start bringing in air movers, blowers and tubes to remove the excess water, and some of us will get to work saving your possessions and drying out your fragile materials.

We are trained to handle every aspect of your restoration from the initial drying process to the final repairs. We can do everything including replacing carpet, walls or floors, and we can even handle entire reconstructions of your home if your project requires it.

Water has the potential to cause significant issues for you and your family, so calling us is always the most reliable way of achieving a complete restoration. We are ready to take your call!

Do you have water damage in your home? Call us for fast and complete restoration.

Taking Care of Your Home During Heavy Rain | SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte

9/19/2023 (Permalink)

image of a large body of water during a rain storm with ripples caused by the heavy downpour Water damage in your home? Not for long with SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte on the case!

Rain comes in all forms throughout the year, and sometimes we love them and sometimes we hate them. A soft and gentle rain in the late summer can feel refreshing and even be much-needed for our yards. Strong storms with intense rain may not always be as welcomed.

Severe weather can bring rain that comes in intense sheets that can overwhelm our homes and our gutter systems. While our homes do a great job of keeping the majority of moisture out, a single leak or an improperly graded yard can lead to all kinds of trouble.

Our SERVPRO® of Northeast Charlotte understands the tricky nature of rain, so we explain some easy ways to prepare your home to withstand the next rainstorm.

Rain in the Concord Area

We have seen some pretty intense storms so far this year! Were you one of the many thousands that lost power in the early August storm? We know that heavy rain can overwhelm our drainage systems and flood roads, and it can also cause landslides in the outer parts of town if the ground gets too wet too fast.

While we cannot stop the rain from falling down, we can be prepared for it. Stay connected to local authorities and understand the daily forecast so you can start planning as soon as a watch or warning is issued.

How to Stay Safe When the Rain Starts

No matter where you are, heading inside during a storm is always recommended. If you can make it home before the rain starts to fall, do so safely by avoiding flooded roads or low-lying areas. Tidy up your yard and pull outdoor furniture into your garage or tie it down. You should also get all your cars and lawn equipment into the garage if you are able as well.

Inside your home, focus your preparation efforts on the lowest level of your house since that is where water tends to accumulate first. Move any fragile or soft materials from those rooms to higher ground, and turn off electricity down there just in case. After that, just sit tight! Don’t panic if water does start to move into your home. Stay above the water line and get us on the phone right away.

Additional Protective Measures

It can be really frustrating and overwhelming to suffer water and flood damage, especially if you do everything right and it still happens. If you start to notice a pattern when it rains, this can actually help you put a stop to the moisture for good!

For example, if you know that water always leaks through your basement screen door when it rains, you might benefit from property grading in that area. Moving around dirt and earth to help encourage rain to flow in a different direction can make a world of difference for your basement.

Another helpful option is investing in a sump pump. Sump pumps are really efficient at pulling excess water from around your foundation and pumping it back to the surface and away from your home. This can ensure your basement stays dry and damage-free all season!

Remember that we are here for you whenever you are surprised by water or flood damage. Our team will remove the excess water and repair and restore the entire affected area quickly and efficiently.

We are here for all of your water disasters. Contact us day or night for a quick recovery.

Vulnerable Places for Water Damage in Your Home | SERVPRO® of Northeast Charlotte

5/9/2023 (Permalink)

 img src =”bucket” alt = " blue bucket in the middle of the living area catching water falling from the ceiling ” > Think you may have water damage in your home? Here are some tips from SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte to find the source.

Water damage has the potential to cause widespread issues in and around your home. Not all water disasters are obvious, like flooding. A single leak or dripping pipe could contribute to large-scale damages if it isn’t caught right away.

Knowing where to look when it comes to water damage can help you stop a problem before it gets any worse. Controlling the situation is always beneficial for controlling the outcome.

Do your best to prevent water damage to your home in Mecklenburg County by checking these areas below often.

Your roof. Even though many roofing materials and shingles are really durable, water damage can happen at any point. A small gap that goes unnoticed can cause issues as well as the more obvious damage like a fallen tree on the corner of your house.

The problem with roof damage is that if you don’t notice it in time, it can turn into a large leak over time and cause chaos behind your walls.

Water has the innate ability to spread, so it can seep through your walls, down into your floors and can drip down your ceilings. Over time, this moisture can linger enough to cause mildew and mold growth behind your walls.

In your bathroom. If you have a large or busy family, you know how much use your bathroom gets. Every time a sink is turned on or the toilet flushes, you run the risk of experiencing water damage. A dripping pipe or clogged drain could lead to water troubles really quickly.

Check under your sink periodically to inspect the water lines and look for puddled water. Your shower and toilets could also be experiencing similar issues. Reducing the amount of moisture in your bathroom can help reduce your risk of water and mold damage as well.

It is worth your time to inspect your plumbing systems regularly. You might catch an issue that may have gone unnoticed, which can help prevent water damage from occurring entirely.

Household appliances. Most homes have a variety of appliances that are used daily, and many of them use water in order to function. Your dishwasher, washing machine and refrigerator utilize water, which means they can also leak or malfunction.

Since these appliances are often heavy or bulky, we don’t typically move them around much. There could be water damage or mold growth happening beneath or behind yours right now.

Each time you clean your home, get in the habit of pulling away these appliances from the wall. It not only helps you get a deeper clean, but you can catch signs of water damage much more easily. In addition, try to keep new appliances in your home if it is financially possible to do so.

Remember that even if you do suffer water damage to your home or business, our SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte’s water restoration team is up to the task. Just give us a call.

Dealing with a water emergency? Our SERVPRO specialists can be on the scene of the disaster ASAP to restore your water-damaged home!

Manage Your Appliances to Prevent Water Damage | SERVPRO® of Northeast Charlotte

4/11/2023 (Permalink)

”water heater” alt = " a blue and white hot water heater showing signs of a water leak ” Have water damage in your home from an appliance? SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte is always on call ready to help.

With today’s technology, we have almost every appliance that we need in our own homes! We can do our own laundry, keep our dishes clean and make our own ice without having to leave the house.

Because we have access to so many great appliances, though, we also run the risk of experiencing water damage in our homes almost every day.

Wherever water is present, it could leak all over your floor and cause widespread damage. It is vital to understand where and when to check for water issues so you can stop a problem in its tracks!

Catching Issues as They Appear

The best way to stop a problem before it becomes a large issue is by noticing the beginnings of a leak or appliance failure. This can be as simple as just running your hand along your appliances to feel for moisture.

Obvious leaks can be easy to spot, but sometimes they can occur without much notice underneath your appliances. This can cause widespread damage before you notice the signs!

Get in the habit of pulling out your large appliances every time you clean your house. This allows you to clean behind them while also checking for moisture or mold issues.

Your HVAC system and water heaters also need to be maintained and inspected regularly. A professional technician should service them yearly to ensure they are working properly, and you can also check for moisture issues or worn water lines as well.

When to Replace Your Appliances

Taking good care of your appliances can not only help you avoid water damage, but it can also help protect their longevity. You should be keeping up with regular parts replacement and routine servicing as needed and recommended by the manufacturer.

When you pull your appliances away from the wall, check the hoses and tubing leading from your machines. Worn seals and other signs of wear and tear should alert you to replace these parts right away.

When you go shopping for replacement parts, stick to the highest quality parts and try to match brands when you can. Swapping out your appliances completely every 10 to 15 years is also recommended. New appliances can help your home be more efficient and also better protected against water damage.

Preventing widespread water damage is possible! All it takes is just some attention to detail and you will enjoy a dry and comfortable home for years to come.

Have water damage in your home from an appliance or another source? Our team is here to help, so call us day or night.

Reducing the Flooding Risk for Your Home | SERVPRO® of Northeast Charlotte

9/28/2022 (Permalink)

"a group of residential homes with major flooding in back yards" Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte to get the restoration process started right away.

Whenever water is involved in a natural disaster or home accident, the damages can be immediate and expansive. It only takes an inch or two to cause lasting problems to your home.

Were you aware that not all insurance policies cover flood damage? Knowing that should be the motivation you need to prepare as much as you can to prevent the damage before it even happens.

Did you know that there are 19,841 acres of land located in a floodplain in Mecklenburg County? Whenever there is heavy rain, the risk of flooding in floodplains increases because these areas were naturally developed to hold a lot of water. You can use this helpful tool to see if your personal address is located in a flood zone.

Starting Outside Your Home

Gutters are a great tool when it comes to protecting your home from flood risk! A properly working gutter system keeps water off of your roof and helps it flow down and away from your foundation.

If you love to garden and grow your own food, you can actually use your garden as a natural flood prevention tool! Plant your garden in an area of your yard that seems to collect a lot of water and make sure to angle it away from your home so that the falling rain flows down to your veggies and flowers.

Protecting your propane and fuel tanks is also a great idea before any incoming weather. Anchor them to the ground so you don’t lose them in a flood, and if you have any electrical outlets located on the ground, it may be a good idea to try to relocate them to a higher spot.

Inside the Home

Protecting your lowest levels and basement starts with a sturdy foundation! Many water issues can be traced back to a crack or a leak in your foundation. Inspect your foundation blocks often to catch any cracking and seal them up right away.

Protecting your home from flooding can be cost-effective if you take simple steps every day. Being prepared will benefit you in the long run!

Flooding can also originate from issues inside the home. All it takes is for your washing machine to overflow or a leaky pipe to burst for you to have a large issue on your hands.

If you notice any small leaking or water drips, address the problem immediately to hopefully stop the problem in its tracks. Installing a leak sensor can also help catch any problems right as they are happening.

Protect the things that you love most in your home! Precious photographs and keepsakes should be kept in an area of your home that is safe from flooding, and it is even better if you get them high off the ground in a waterproof container. Important documents and your emergency plan should also be copied and kept in a similar area so that you are always ready for anything.

Experienced water damage in your home? Call SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte today to get your restoration completed faster.

Spring Showers & Other Weather Hazards | SERVPRO® of Northeast Charlotte

3/7/2022 (Permalink)

"an image with a cloudy, rainy, sunny and snowy sky"  Extreme temperature changes can lead to the possibility of severe weather. SERVPRO of Northeast Charlotte is a click away if you experience any damage

The largest nations in the world are Russia and Canada. The United States is a close second though, based on total land mass.

Having such a large nation means that “spring weather” can mean many different things for many people. Each season brings about distinct weather patterns, and the spring season is no different. And as we all know, different weather types can bring different weather threats.

The spring season is right around the corner, officially starting on March 20. Here’s a good look at what to expect in different areas of the country.

First up, the Pacific Northwest region. The weather here is wet with heavy rains, which can lead to flooding or water damage. In higher elevation areas, they are also possibly dealing with melting snow and ice, which cause problems of their own.

Moving to the Upper Midwest and Northeast regions, they are the ones that deal with the winter weather more than anyone else. In fact, they jump right over the spring season it seems, because during the spring months they are still dealing with snowstorms or blizzards! Sounds awfully cold to us here in North Carolina, right?

The West Coast, on the other hand, basically has a non-existent winter. Rather than cold weather, they are preparing for and dealing with excessive heat waves. These intense temperatures can put people in danger, but they also combine with dry conditions to create a fire hazard.

When you look at the Midwest, from Iowa to Texas, this is the middle part of the United States, where there are much drier, windy conditions. During the spring, they may face windstorms, derechos and wildfires. Because it’s so dry and windy, these wildfires can be easily spread and cause mass destruction. And as if that’s not enough, part of the region is also “Tornado Alley,” which is where tornadoes are most likely to occur.

And in our area, the Southeast region, we’re looking forward to pleasant temperatures and sunny days. But the spring also brings abundant rain at times, along with the threat of severe thunderstorms and even tornadoes. We’re landlocked here in Charlotte, but for our southern neighbors along the coast, rip currents and early-season hurricanes can also be a factor.

No matter where you live in this great nation, weather hazards are everywhere! That’s why whether you are on the West Coast or in the Southeast region, you must always be prepared.

If extreme weather leaves you with damage from water, fire or other elements, help is a click away. Contact SERVPRO for fast, expert recovery.

Water Damage Can Be Costly | SERVPRO® of North Central Mecklenburg County

1/28/2022 (Permalink)

img src =”sink.jpg” alt = "the underside of a sink showing water damage from leaking pipes ” > If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County.

Have you ever experienced water damage in your home before?

As a homeowner, you are likely to experience water damage at some point. Statistics show that this type of damage is incredibly common, but you can be proactive in helping keep your home safe.

Ensuring that your pipes and appliances are well-equipped and maintained. is one way to stay prepared. Taking these steps can help you lower your risk of being part of a water damage statistic like the ones below.

24. This is the percentage of all home insurance claims related to water damage. So, almost one out of every four claims is caused by water damage.

48. You typically have about 48 hours when a water incident happens before mold can become a problem for you. Water damage needs to be cleaned up quickly because sometimes it doesn’t even take a full 48 hours.

98. Owning a home with a basement is great, but it also increases your chance of having water damage. In fact, 98% of homes with basements will experience some type of water damage.

10,234. Since water damage can affect your decorations, furniture and even sheetrock, it can be costly to repair any damage. This amount is what an average insurance claim for water damage costs.

14,000. This is the number of water emergencies that happen daily here in the United States. To put this into perspective, that means that every six seconds, someone is reporting water damage in a home.

13,000,000,000. This number represents the annual cost of water damage here in America. You read it right—that’s $13 billion.

The statistics show that at some point or another, you’re likely to experience water damage, but rest assured that you can also prevent most water damage. Make sure you are keeping up with home maintenance and replacing things before they get too bad, and you can lower your risk and protect your home.

If water damage catches you off-guard and leaves you all wet, you’ve got help on your side. Contact SERVPRO to see how we can quickly and fully restore water damage to your home or business.

Common Places Water Can Leak in Your Home | SERVPRO® of North East Charlotte County

1/28/2022 (Permalink)

a leak in ceiling creating water lines running down an interior wall A water leak can turn into a big problem. Contact the SERVPRO of North East Charlotte County team if you are dealing with any water damage

The last thing you want to hear in the morning is, “we have a water leak!” While we need water to survive, we need it to stay in the right places.

Knowing the different places where water can enter your home and how water gets into placed it isn’t supposed to is important. Here are some common sources of water damage in the home.

The bathroom. There are plenty of places in the bathroom for leaks to occur as there are plenty of supply lines and drains in showers and tubs, toilets, and sinks.

Dishwasher supply line and drain. Dishwashers have a supply line, drain and a tub that holds water. So there are multiple opportunities for leaks to occur.

Cracked flashing or vent boots. Cracked flashing and vent boots are another cause for concern. Flashing can degrade over time and should be inspected annually. Vent boots are made from a thick silicone material and should last about 30 years, maybe more depending on the climate in your area.

Outside piping. Every house has a supply pipe coming in and a drain pipe going out, and those pipes are both susceptible to breaking. In colder climates, these pipes have to be buried deep underground so as not to freeze. Many times, outside piping can be covered by a separate insurance plan so homeowners don’t have to be concerned with the a major repair.

Drain problems. Drains can clog for any number of reasons. Three of the most common are grease/food in the kitchen, hair in the shower and a toilet obstruction. If you can keep these three issues under control, the potential for drain issues will be reduced.

It’s smart to stay on top of the home systems that keep water from infiltrating your home. All of these systems have a shelf life, and replacing or repairing them prior to failure can save you a lot of time, money and stress.

If a water leak erupts into a big problem at home, you’ve got the best team in the business on your side. Contact SERVPRO today so we can get started.

Do You Know the Signs of Basement Water Damage? | SERVPRO® of North Central Mecklenburg County

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Leaking Basements Basement Water Leaks

Do You Know the Signs of Basement Water Damage? | SERVPRO® of North Central Mecklenburg County

A basement is an essential part of many homes. It can serve as a place to store boxes of collections and memories.

It can be a place for the family to huddle when storms are near. It can even be extra living space for an adult child or an in-law who need a temporary place to call home.

However, homeowners typically run into one major problem above all others as it regards basements: water damage. Because basements are dug into the ground, and because appliances such as water heaters are often stored there, a basement becomes a prime place for unaccounted-for water to end up.

It’s not a guarantee that you’ll encounter water damage in the basement, but if your home has one built in, it definitely behooves you to be aware of the risks and acquaint yourself with the common roots and signs of aquatic basement misadventures.

The Top Signs of Water Damage in a Basement

Unpleasant, musky odors. Whether it’s from outdoor moisture or indoor leakage, the water that comes into your basement will find a place to settle, soak and sour, eventually resulting in the smell that’s so often associated with basement life that some people just assume it’s issued with the house. That smell, though, should not be the norm for your underground room. It only occurs when mold and mildew are present in the environment, and your sense of smell is your first clue that you’ve got mold growing, as the odor will manifest even before mold or mildew are visible.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. If your downstairs haven is painted, a disruption in the paint job could very well signal that you have a water issue. Even so-called waterproof paint won’t hold back a significant enough leak—it’ll just give way later, after more water has accumulated. Yes, if there’s bubbling and flaking, you’ve got water. Unless, that is, you’ve got…

Foundational cracks. Homes have been known to shift over time, but full-blown cracks in the foundation aren’t normal, and they must be acted upon immediately. Cracks can also manifest in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls, as a sign that your foundation has already cracked and the rest of the house is feeling the pressure. Don’t fret over hairline cracks, but if they grow, you need to line up repair options quick.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.

How Do I Get the Water Out of My Mecklenburg County Basement Without a Sump Pump?

4/25/2020 (Permalink)

We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster!

SERVPRO has the equipment and expertise to clean and dry your Mecklenburg County basement

Statistics show that a full 98% of basements have a water loss event at least once during their service life in a residence. A finished basement has the potential to have more structural loss due to the installed walls and flooring that may be present.

What Types of Damage Can Happen if Water Cleanup in My Basement Gets Delayed?
When a Mecklenburg County basement needs water cleanup, several steps need to occur for the best outcome. In finished basements, there can be substantial losses from water wicked into sheetrock; tiles can come loose, and glue-down carpet may be ruined. The potential for restoration depends on the construction materials used in the flooring and how long it had exposure to high moisture conditions.

In some cases, the water removal efforts did not occur because the homeowner had no idea there was an issue. A slow leak in a basement that no one goes into very often is a recipe for problems such as mold infestations and damp, musty odors.

Types of Water Loss Situations in Commonly Seen in Basements
When SERVPRO handles water removal and restoration services in local basements, here are some of the typical reasons why it occurred:

    •    Sewage backup in a basement bathroom
    •    Plumbing issue such as a pipe break
    •    Supply line leak to a washing machine
    •    Water heater tank failure
    •    Groundwater or flash flood

Proactive Tactics for Lessening Contents Loss
SERVPRO technicians move items in the basement away from the water. As they do so, they inspect each thing to see if it needs cleaning or has any damage from water exposure. Contents moved may be taken to another area of the home, stored on-site, or taken to a secure location off-site. Anytime possessions get moved, the technicians make a detailed report that includes photos, location, and in the case of a large number of objects, barcodes may get used. Because the placement location within the basement gets noted, when it is time to move items back in, putting them in their precise location is not an issue.

Tactics for Damaged Building Materials

    •    Numerous actions need to occur to mitigation mitigate the loss to walls and floors in a finished basement.
    •    Flood cuts on sheetrock that wicked water
    •    Removal of floating floors or tiles to dry the substrate underneath
    •    A glue-down carpet usually needs replacement and on a case by case basis inspected for reinstallation.
    •    Removal of installed electronics such as mounted flatscreen televisions and soundbars

The Right Equipment Makes the Difference in the Outcome
In the cases where the basement has water due to a malfunctioning sump pump or poor drainage, the technicians can remove the water rapidly by deploying multiple portable pumps. These allow the technicians to move freely and extract the water. It is common for the same spot to get worked on until the passes are "dry" with no apparent moisture coming up. This practice assists in expediting the drying phase of mitigation.

After the extraction equipment, the technologically advanced drying equipment is one of the most significant differences between DIY and professional equipment. Very few basements have good ventilation besides the egress windows and doors to reduce the trapped water vapor. The air movers used by SERVPRO for drying push warm, dry air over wet surfaces at high speeds; it causes embedded moisture to rise. In a basement, this could be problematic without dehumidification equipment at the ready to capture it and port it away.

Special Considerations for Masonry and Concrete
Because of the porous nature of concrete and brick, when the moisture rises to the surface and dries, it can leave a white powdery substance known as efflorescence. It is the residues left behind by salts and minerals in the brick or concrete and gets wiped away easily.

Odor Control Actions Before Repairs
There is no point in making repairs in a basement if residual musty water odors remain behind. SERVPRO techs have different applications to ensure that before any reinstallation or repairs happen, the basement is odor-free. Cleaning the masonry and slab floor with specific cleaning agents assists with removing any stains as well as modernization. If the scent-level requires stronger treatments, thermal fogging works well to neutralize both airborne and embedded odorous particulate that may still be present.

When your home needs water cleanup, you need help sooner rather than later. Call SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County at (704) 596-9700; the certified technicians are available 24/7 to provide compassionate, professional solutions for your home disaster.

For more about Mecklenburg County click here.

Equilibrium Sciences for Efficient Drying of Charlotte Homes

2/13/2020 (Permalink)

You can contact our professionals 24/7. Our experts are trained and equipped with the experience and equipment to handle any water damage task.

Thorough Water Removal in Your Charlotte Home Can Prevent Further Damage

When drying out a damaged Charlotte home after a water loss incident, our technicians must seek to exploit nature’s need for natural balances to maximize drying and water removal. Psychrometry is one of these scientific studies that our water restoration technicians (WRT) become familiar with during their education and field experience recovering water losses. Understanding the pull of present forces to even out, can help experienced technicians increase the output of placed machinery and restoration techniques.

Determining how nature seeks to balance damage before drying and water removal for Charlotte homes can Indicate the best approaches for removing lingering moisture and saturation from construction materials and contents. Our SERVPRO professionals utilize three natural laws of nature to continue the pace and effectiveness of drying tactics. These laws include:

  • High Pressure Goes to Low Pressure
  • Hot Goes to Cold
  • Wet Goes to Dry

These facts also lay out the essential elements of efficient drying, such as temperature, air pressure, and humidity. When two spaces differ in any of these areas, nature seeks to create a balance between the two by working to make both of the damaged regions equal in moisture content, temperature, and pressures. Recognizing the differences as they exist, and before natural equilibrium can get reached, is a productive practice in the hands of our SERVPRO technicians.

Our professionals must work never to allow the house to reach a point where all of these elements, like air pressure, temperature, and saturation level out. When warmer temperatures present in one drying space migrate to colder regions or pressure begins to level out between several damp areas of the home at once, we must continue to modify these results with warm, dry air and focused equipment. Ineffective drying happens when wet areas still exist, but equilibrium has stalled the movement or change of these three primary factors.

Understanding the science of drying can help our SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County team provide effective water removal and drying services to damaged homes. No matter how we can help, give our emergency response team a call 24/7 at (704) 596-9700.

Learn more about Charlotte.

Water Damage Incident In Your Charlotte Home

1/12/2020 (Permalink)

Controlled demolition helps restorers focus on deeply affected areas while salvaging many materials.

Demolition, not Destruction When Restoring Water Damage Incident in a Charlotte Home

Water intrusion that causes deterioration of materials can be a challenge to address. Away from the physical challenge of restoring or replacing the materials, which a professional team like SERVPRO handles easily, the cost may be higher than what the homeowner, or the insurer, is willing to pay. One way to cater for the interests of all involved parties is through controlled demolition, which helps reach the affected areas without causing unnecessary damages.

During a water damage incident in Charlotte, a leak in the pipes supplying a kitchen sink left water within the construction assembly of the countertop holding it. Due to the passage of time, the water also found a way through the surrounding laminate floor, affecting the fiberboards. For the homeowner, removing the water and restoring the affected materials with minimal damages was the main priority. SERVPRO technicians are well versed with controlled demolition, which helps open up such assemblies for drying and removal of unsalvageable materials.

Among the items, we could save included the Corian countertop, its main assembly parts such as the framing, and side panels. Careful disassembly, including lifting and moving the heavy countertop surface away before focusing on the panels, helped limit the chances of damaging them. Once disassembled, our SERVPRO technicians wet vacuumed the area to remove water remnants before setting up air movers and a dehumidifying unit to complete the drying process.

The way laminate floors are made makes it hard to restore them after a water loss, especially when there is deep moisture penetration. A typical floor has a high-density fiberboard laminated with a vapor retardant at the top and bottom. On scoping the area with moisture meters, we realized the intrusion penetrated some of the boards, necessitating the removal. Luckily, it affected just a small section around the countertop so we could focus on that area saving the homeowner money.

Controlled demolition helps restorers focus on deeply affected areas while salvaging many materials. Call SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County at (704) 596-9700 to help. We’re Faster to Any Size Disaster.

For more about Charlotte click here.

There are going to be challenges with water! That's why you call SERVPRO to handle the job!

12/3/2019 (Permalink)

When this happens, it's best you call the professionals to handle it!

Flooding and water damaging events around Charlotte commercial properties are often complex with numerous issues that require a knowledgeable and timely response. Even if its relatively small water cleanup scenario or a large scale event, we work quickly to assess each unique situation and isolate the damaged area. In many cases, normal operations can continue in a temporary space while we restore your facility.

Our professionals are trained to be mindful of legal and environment concerns and strive to fully restore the damaged area while working within your budgetary constraints. We understand that every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when an emergency situation arises in your business, give us a call and we'll be there fast with the help you need!

Charlotte, Huntersville, Cornelius, and Davidson 24 Hour Emergency Water Service

11/4/2019 (Permalink)

We are available anytime, any day, for any situation such as the above picture! Call us today at 704-596-9700

SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - 704-596-9700

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling stressed and concerned. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

  • Your name and contact information
  • Your insurance information (if applicable)
  • The street address of the water-damaged home or business
  • When did the flooding or water damage occur?
  • What caused the water damage (if known)?
  • Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County

SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

Know who to call for your Water and Flooding Needs

10/18/2019 (Permalink)

This is what you dont want to let sit and wait, call SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenberg County to be there for you water crisis!

We have all had medical emergencies and we know to either rush to the hospital or contact 911. We often forget that there are more than just medical emergencies. What about issues at your house, apartment, vacation home or rentals?

Just like medical emergencies it is important to know who to contact when things are going wrong at your property. SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County is here for you.

Flooding and water emergencies don't have to wait for regular business hours. SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week-- including ALL holidays.

Do you need Emergency Service? Don't know who to call? Well, Call Us 24/7 at 704-596-9700

UH-OH! There's water at my property! What do I do?

7/31/2019 (Permalink)

Office room, half soaked with water and equitment. Air mover placed at the door, half office soaked.

When these types of situations occur, it is possible that your commercial property will suffer from commercial flood damage, requiring you to call in a professional restoration company like SERVPRO. The combination of water and damage can create many problems with your company's building. Once a hole, flood, or leak happens in your business' structure, it is likely that commercial flood damage took place inside your property.

When water enters a area in the building, problems can get caused that are best treated by a professional and highly trained team like our SERVPRO technicians. We know how to mitigate many types of commercial flood damage here at North Central Mecklenburg County. Being that we are local, we have experience in dealing with issues created by leaks, burst pipes, & storms.

Flood Damage and moisture can then create several issues with substances that make up the structural components of your commercial property. Saturated building materials can lose their structural integrity and deteriorate. Also, then if organic substances stay wet for more than 48 hours, fungal growth can occur.

Whenever any H2O enters your home even if it is in the form of snow, it can cause your place of structural business issues. If you ever notice water inside your commercial property, call SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County at (704) 596-9700 24/7.

Know who to call,Cornelius, for your Water and Flooding Needs

5/3/2019 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of  North Central Mecklenburg County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of  North Central Mecklenburg County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 704-596-9700

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

  • Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
  • Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
  • Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
  • Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

  • Drywall begins to swell and break down.
  • Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
  • Furniture begins to swell and crack.
  • Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
  • A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

  • Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
  • Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
  • Metal begins to rust and corrode.
  • Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
  • Paint begins to blister.
  • Wood flooring swells and warps.
  • Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

  • Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
  • Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of North Central Mecklenburg County

SERVPRO of  North Central Mecklenburg County specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.

For more information follow us on Facebook:

www.facebook.com/SERVPRONCMC/