Signs That You Have Undetected Water Damage

10/23/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can lurk behind walls and under floorboards, causing significant issues and damage if left untreated. Identifying the signs early can save you time, money, and stress. At SERVPRO of East Providence, we understand the need for quick and efficient water removal to prevent any further damage from arising. Here are some key things to look for that could indicate undetected water damage in your home.

Water Damage Can Have A Musty Odor

One of the first signs that you could have undetected water damage is a persistent musty smell. If you notice an odd smell that won't go away even with proper cleaning, it could be a sign of mold or mildew growth, which indicates untreated water damage.

Water Damage Can Cause Warped Flooring 

Another significant sign that there may have been undetected water damage in your home is if any flooring is warped or buckled. This is mainly for wood and laminate surfaces, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or attics. If flooring appears swollen or uneven in certain areas, it might result from prolonged moisture exposure. 

Water Damage Can Result in Peeling Wallpaper

Moisture could easily be trapped underneath if you notice paint bubbling or wallpaper peeling in your home. If left untreated, this will only cause more damage to the walls. This clearly indicates that water damage may occur behind those surfaces. 

Increased Water Bill Could Indicate a Leak 

A less common sign that you may have water damage happening behind the scenes is a sudden increase in your usual water bill. This could be a sign of a hidden leak within your plumbing system that could be causing damage over time. If your usage hasn't changed, it's worth investigating it further.

Foundation Issues Caused By Water Damage

Lastly, cracking in walls or flooring, along with doorframes and windows, can indicate a moisture-related problem in your home's foundation. A professional should assess these issues to determine the extent of the damage and what needs to be done.

Choose SERVPRO of East Providence

Detecting water damage early is crucial in preventing costly repairs and health hazards. If you notice these signs, you must investigate further or consult a professional. SERVPRO of East Providence water damage restoration is your local choice for property recovery. Get started with our water damage detection and damage restoration services.

How To Prepare Your Home For A Flood

9/20/2024 (Permalink)

Flooding is becoming increasingly prominent in East Providence, with storms quickly leading to clogged storm drains and failing gutters. Knowing what to do in the event of a flood is essential so you can remain calm and know that you’ve done everything possible to minimize the damage. 

How to Know When You’re At Risk For A Flood

It’s easy to fall victim to flooding, as it can happen quickly, and most people aren’t adequately prepared. That said, some areas are more prone to flooding, so contact your local or county office of Emergency Management to determine how at-risk you are. It is essential to understand the terminology in the event of a flood: 

• A Flood or Flash Flood Watch means flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area.
• A Flood or Flash Flood Warning means a flood or flash flood is imminent or is already occurring.

5 Tips To Prepare Your Home For A Flood 

If you are in an area prone to flooding and suspect a flood soon, there are some significant changes that you can make to protect your home and minimize water damage. Here are some tips to consider implementing for your home: 

1. Make an Emergency Kit In Case of an Emergency 

The first step to prepare for a flood is to assemble an emergency kit. Having the proper supplies on hand will make life much easier. In a power outage, it’s helpful to have a hand-crank radio, a Flashlight, and a first aid kit. Additionally, having a supply of medication, food, and water to sustain you for a few days is essential. To view a complete list of recommended items to add to your emergency kit, check out FEMA’s emergency supply list. 

2. Prevent Costly Repairs By Elevating Appliances

One step to adequately protect your home is elevating any appliances—such as furnaces, water heaters, electrical panels, etc. These should be 12 inches above the base flood elevation (BFE), which can be looked up online through FEMA’s elevation tool or by contacting your local floodplain administrator. 

3. Seal Up You Home To Minimize Water Entry 

Walk around your home and look for gaps and cracks where water could enter. This includes windows, doors, and openings for cables/pipes. Seal any openings with caulk. Sealing basement walls with a waterproofing compound is essential, as it can minimize the amount of water entering the home. Additionally, installing a sump pump with a water alarm can take some worry off your shoulders by automatically pumping out water and alerting you once it reaches a certain point. 

4. Clean Out Your Gutters to Prevent Leaks 

The purpose of gutters and downspouts around your property is to direct any water away from your foundation, preventing water buildup and leaks. That said, gutters can easily be clogged from leaves, debris, and other elements building up over time. Clogged gutters and downspouts will lead to water seeping into areas around your home rather than flowing away. Clear out your gutters and check the drainage around your foundation.

5. Install a Generator to Eliminate Worry 

Power outages are also very likely during a storm where flooding is possible. If you rely on a sump pump to drain water out of your home, a power outage can impact it and result in water buildup. Installing a generator can alleviate worry—especially if you are out of town when a flood occurs. It doesn’t have to be a big unit, just one to keep some essential appliances up and running if a power outage lasts for days.  

Contact SERVPRO of East Providence For Water Damage Cleanup

If your East Providence residence or business has flooding and water damage issues, we can help. We provide 24/7 emergency water and fire damage cleanup services for properties throughout East Providence, RI. For more information, please visit our website. 

How Partnering with SERVPRO of East Providence Helps You Restore and Rebuild After a Disaster

2/9/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of East Providence specializes on Construction Services

When disaster strikes, the path to recovery can seem daunting. That's where SERVPRO® of East Providence comes in, guiding you through the restoration and rebuilding process with expertise and compassion. Our all-encompassing approach ensures that from the moment disaster is assessed to the final touches of reconstruction, every step is handled with precision and care. This introduction sets the stage for understanding how SERVPRO's seamless integration of services not only restores your property but rebuilds your peace of mind.

Restoration and Clean-Up

At SERVPRO of East Providence, we understand the importance of a thorough and efficient cleanup process following any disaster. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of cleaning needs, from water and fire damage to mold remediation and even biohazard situations. We utilize state-of-the-art techniques and equipment to ensure your property is cleaned, sanitized, and deodorized to meet the highest standards. This foundational step is crucial in mitigating further damage and setting the stage for the rebuilding phase, ensuring a smooth transition from restoration to reconstruction. 

The Reconstruction Process

After cleanup, the reconstruction process is integral to our commitment to fully restoring your property post-disaster. This service encompasses everything from minor repairs to comprehensive rebuilding efforts, ensuring your premises are restored, making the damage "Like It Never Even Happened." The professionals at SERVPRO of East Providence are equipped to handle the reconstruction phase in full, helping alleviate the stress that comes with rebuilding after a disaster.

Why Choose SERVPRO?

When it comes to restoration after a disaster, SERVPRO of East Providence is your single point of contact when it comes to cleaning and reconstruction. By allowing SERVCPRO to be your advocate for reconstruction, you don't need to worry about managing multiple repair teams. SERVPRO of East Providence has you covered. On top of a single point of contact, SERVPRO also helps you in navigating the insurance claims process and assists in coordinating the necessary paperwork, giving you a quicker and easier experience.

Conclusion

SERVPRO of East Providence exemplifies resilience and expertise in the face of disaster, offering a comprehensive range of services from initial cleanup to complete reconstruction. With our approach and focus on quality, efficiency, and customer care, SERVPRO of East Providence not only restores properties but also peace of mind, making disasters "Like It Never Even Happened." This dedication to excellence and comprehensive support underscores why SERVPRO of East Providence is the preferred choice for disaster recovery and reconstruction. Contact us today!

Understanding Black Mold

1/23/2024 (Permalink)

Black mold growing on ceiling, potentially compromising the integrity of the building

What is Black Mold, and Why is it a Concern?

Black mold, scientifically termed Stachybotrys chartarum, is a toxic mold variant that thrives in damp, humid conditions. Often characterized by its dark coloration, this mold is not just an aesthetic concern but poses significant health and structural risks. Its spores, when airborne, can exacerbate respiratory problems, allergies, and even lead to more severe health issues, particularly in those with compromised immune systems. Beyond health risks, black mold can also undermine the structural integrity of buildings, leading to costly repairs and devaluation of property. Its crucial for home and business owners to understand the gravity of black mold infestations and take proactive measures to mitigate its growth and spread.

Primary Causes of Black Mold Growth in Buildings

Understanding the root causes of black mold growth is essential for effective prevention and treatment. Primarily, black mold thrives in environments that provide moisture, organic material, and adequate temperatures.

1. Moisture: The predominant factor for black mold growth is excess moisture, which can originate from several sources such as leaking pipes, roof leaks, condensation, or high indoor humidity. Buildings with poor drainage systems or those that have experienced flooding are particularly susceptible.
2. Poor Ventilation: Inadequate ventilation in buildings leads to moisture accumulation, especially in high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens. This lack of airflow not only supports mold growth but also prevents the drying out of damp areas, further exacerbating the problem.
3. Building Materials: Black mold feeds on organic materials found in many building components like wood, drywall, and insulation. These materials, when exposed to moisture, provide the perfect breeding ground for mold.
4. Temperature: Mold thrives in warm temperatures, typically found indoors. Buildings with inconsistent temperature regulation or poor insulation can have pockets of warmth that encourage mold growth.

Addressing these key factors is crucial in preventing and managing black mold in any building. By controlling moisture levels, ensuring proper ventilation, and using mold-resistant building materials, the risks associated with black mold can be significantly mitigated.

Identifying Early Signs of Black Mold

Early detection of black mold is crucial in preventing its spread and mitigating potential health risks. Being vigilant about the signs can help in taking timely action. Here are key indicators to watch for:

1. Visible Growth: The most obvious sign is the appearance of dark, often black or greenish-black, splotches on surfaces, particularly in moist areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.
2. Musty Odors: A persistent musty, earthy smell is a strong indicator of mold presence, even if it's not immediately visible. This odor can be particularly noticeable in closed spaces or upon entering a room.
3. Water Damage: Signs of water damage such as water stains, discoloration, or peeling wallpaper/paint can indicate potential mold growth areas, especially if the area remains damp.
4. Health Symptoms: Unexplained allergic reactions like sneezing, sore eyes, nasal congestion, or skin irritation when at home may suggest mold presence. People with asthma or respiratory conditions may notice worsening symptoms.
5. Humidity and Condensation: Excessive humidity and condensation on windows, pipes, or walls create ideal conditions for mold growth. Regular monitoring of these areas can help in early detection.

Regular inspections, particularly in prone areas, are essential in catching mold growth early. If any signs are detected, it’s advisable to seek professional assessment to determine the extent and necessary remediation steps.

Effective Strategies for Preventing Black Mold Growth

Preventing black mold growth is more manageable than dealing with its aftermath. Implementing effective strategies can significantly reduce the risk of mold infestation in any building. Here are some key preventive measures:

1. Control Humidity Levels: Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% using dehumidifiers and air conditioners. This range hinders mold growth.
2. Enhance Ventilation: Increase airflow in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens by using exhaust fans and keeping windows open when possible.
3. Immediate Water Damage Response: Address water leaks and spills promptly. The faster you dry the area, the lesser the chance for mold to grow.
4. Regular Maintenance Checks: Conduct routine inspections for leaks in roofs, pipes, and walls. Early detection and repair of these issues can prevent mold proliferation.
5. Use Mold-Resistant Products: When building or renovating, consider using mold-resistant drywall, paints, and building materials, especially in moisture-prone areas.
6. Keep Spaces Clean and Dry: Regular cleaning and vacuuming with HEPA filters can reduce mold spores in the home. Ensure that areas like bathrooms and basements are well-ventilated and dry.
7. Proper Insulation: Ensure your home is properly insulated, including windows, doors, and pipes, to reduce the chances of condensation which can lead to mold growth.

Implementing these strategies creates an environment that is not conducive to mold growth, thus safeguarding the structural integrity of the building and the health of its occupants.

Conclusion

Combatting black mold effectively hinges on awareness and proactive prevention. Recognizing the early signs and understanding the causes is vital for maintaining a healthy environment in our homes and businesses. Simple measures like controlling humidity, ensuring good ventilation, and addressing water-related issues promptly can significantly deter mold growth. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key. 

Need Expert Mold Remediation? Contact SERVPRO® Today

If you're facing mold challenges in your home or business, don't wait for the problem to escalate. SERVPRO of East Providence's professional mold remediation services are your solution. Our team of experts is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and experience to efficiently identify, address, and prevent mold issues, ensuring your environment is healthy and safe. Trust SERVPRO of East Providence to provide effective, thorough, and timely mold remediation services. Read more about our mold remediation services or give us a call today!

What the Polar Vortex Means for Your Pipes

1/15/2024 (Permalink)

Polar Vortexes bring exceedingly cold temperatures

As the winter weather continues, "Polar Vortexes" become far more likely, signaling plummeting temperatures and severe weather conditions. This meteorological term, often associated with bone-chilling cold, can have a profound impact on daily life, particularly for homeowners and business owners. In addition to several drops in temperature to worry about, polar vortexes also heavily affect plumbing systems. As temperatures dive, the risk of pipes freezing and subsequently bursting increases, potentially leading to severely damaging water floods. Understanding the polar vortex, how it affects plumbing piping, and the necessary preventive measures are essential for bracing for the winter months. SERVPRO of East Providence has crafted some preventive measures you can utilize to ensure your plumbing stays safe during the ongoing polar vortex.

Understanding the Polar Vortex and Its Impact

A polar vortex is essentially a vast expanse of swirling cold air that typically envelopes the polar regions. However, during the winter, the vortex at the North Pole often expands, pushing frigid air toward the equator and affecting much of the Northern Hemisphere. This shift can result in a sudden and steep drop in temperatures, often catching businesses and residences off-guard.

The critical issue with these plummeting temperatures is their effect on water pipes. Water expands when it freezes, and this expansion can exert extraordinary pressure on pipes, regardless of whether they are made of metal or plastic. When the pressure becomes too great, pipes can burst, leading to water damage, the potential for mold growth, and the need for repairs on top of restoration and cleaning services.

Prevention and Protection

To mitigate the risks of a polar vortex freezing your pipes, consider the following preventive steps:

1. Insulate Pipes: Wrapping exposed pipes in foam insulation, particularly those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages, can significantly reduce the risk of freezing.
2. Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperature: Keeping your home heated consistently, even when you're away, helps keep the internal temperature of pipes above freezing.
3. Allow Faucets to Drip: Allowing a slight drip in faucets can prevent pressure buildup within pipes, reducing the risk of freezing and bursting.
4. Drain Water from Pools and Sprinklers: Drain water from the swimming pool and sprinkler supply lines following the manufacturer's instructions.
5. Close Inside Valves Supplying Outdoor Hose Bibs: After removing and draining outdoor hoses, close the inside valves that supply these bibs but leave the outside valve open.
6. Insulate Vulnerable Spaces: Increase insulation in areas like attics, basements, and crawl spaces to maintain higher temperatures.
7. Open Cabinet Doors: Allow warmer air to circulate around plumbing by opening kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors.

The polar vortex, while a natural weather phenomenon, poses a significant challenge to plumbing, particularly regarding the risk of frozen and bursting pipes. By understanding this meteorological event and taking proactive, preventative measures, you can safeguard your home against the potentially devastating and costly consequences. Prevention actions are far more effective and less costly than repair. Stay warm, stay informed, and prepare your home for whatever the winter brings. 

Should you incur any water or storm damage during the Polar Vortex, feel free to contact SERVPRO of East Providence, and we'll make it "Like It Never Even Happened!"

When That DIY Project Gets Out of Hand, We Step In | SERVPRO of East Providence

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Don't let a hiccup ruin your home project! Call SERVPRO of East Providence to progress back on track.

We are all familiar with this scenario: You see a really cool DIY project online that looks easy enough to handle, so you think you will give it a go. You get all the supplies, collect your equipment and take the plunge. 

Halfway through, you realize you are in over your head. What do you do? You can’t live in a partially finished home forever! 

That’s where we step in. Our reconstruction and restoration team is here for more than just disaster restoration. We are also fully trained in different construction methods and we can help you finish the project with confidence. 

Our Construction Process
We are proudly well-known for our restoration services, that much is true. But we also are a trusted leader when it comes to regular construction and remodeling projects! 

We are a full-service construction company that can help handle your project from start to finish, or we can take over where you left off to help make sure that DIY is completed to your satisfaction. 

We start with a full inspection of the space and project at hand, and then we create your personalized construction plan based on your inspiration and the requirements of your space. 

Our talented team handles everything, and we mean everything! This includes the less glamorous parts of construction, like dust control and thorough cleanings as we go. Don’t worry if you think your project is too large or too labor-intensive, because we have you covered. 

We Offer the Confidence You Deserve
Our team only offers the best because we train to make it that way! Our team is constantly learning and adjusting their practices based on industry standards. We are equipped to handle anything from HVAC servicing to painting or even marble floor repair.

In addition to our construction services, we of course are always around to handle your disaster situations. If a fire, flood or water leak causes damage to your home, we will be there right away to help you recover. 

We put our best foot forward for any project that we are tackling, so you can rest assured that we will make your home look like a million bucks quickly and efficiently. We are ready for your call!

Don’t let a snag in your project keep you from finishing! Contact us today to get started once more.

Top Ways Your Home Can Be Damaged in a Storm | SERVPRO of East Providence

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Has your home or business been affected by a heavy storm? Call SERVPRO of East Providence to get your space back in shape.

We are no strangers to severe weather in the Providence area. We seem to see everything over the course of a single year, from brutal winter storms in the colder months all the way to intense winds and rain when a coastal storm comes to town in the summer! 

Severe weather has that innate ability to pop up at any time and cause trouble for us all.

That’s why it is important to be prepared for any scenario no matter what time of year it is. Wind, rain, hail and even snow can all be particularly dangerous in the right conditions.

Our team took some time to explain common ways homes can be damaged during severe weather and how we can help, so read on to learn more.

The Impact of Wind and Water

A gentle rain during any time of the year can be calming and relaxing, but intense rain that falls in a single downpour can lead to all kinds of water trouble in your home. The tiniest gap in your roof or a crack along your window pane can invite water inside that will leak down your walls and into your floors. Clogged gutters can also have a devastating effect on your roof line or even your basement if the water overflows and sinks down into your foundation. 

In addition, wind can cause overwhelming damage in a short amount of time. Straight-line winds can easily reach up to 100 miles per hour, which can topple trees, overturn cars or turn the most unsuspecting lawn item into a damaging projectile. 

The best way to avoid these types of damages is to tackle house maintenance projects like trimming your trees and cleaning your gutters regularly. Removing the potential issues can help you avoid serious damage in the next storm.

The Intensity of Impact Damage

Many people are most aware of the significant damage an impact can have on their homes. A fallen tree, flying trampolines and overturned cars can cause major damage in a single moment. These types of damage are often severe and can even displace you from your home for a while while the repairs are taking place. 

While you cannot prevent every situation, you can take small steps to avoid impact damage before the storm hits. Bring your cars inside the garage, pull anything heavy into a safe location and consider tying down large objects like trampolines or grills to help them stay put.

Our Storm Restoration Process

Mother Nature has a mind of her own, so don’t panic if you do everything you can to avoid damage and it still happens. Our team is trained to respond quickly and efficiently to help you recover. We will quickly arrive at your house and secure the rest of your home by laying tarps and boarding up broken windows while we assess the damage. 

Once we have a plan, we get to work drying out your home and addressing repairs. We can handle everything from drywall repair to a full roof replacement. We will handle the cleaning, restoration and sanitization from start to finish so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Call us as soon as the storm is over, and SERVPRO® of East Providence will be there. 

When the wind blows too hard or the rain falls too fast, SERVPRO of East Providence is ready to help.

What to Do When Your Dishwasher Leaks | SERVPRO of East Providence

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Has your dishwasher started leaking on your floors? Call SERVPRO of East Providence to restore your kitchen to preloss condition!

It can be so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life that you might not notice right away when small problems start to become larger ones. Maybe you absentmindedly swiped away that drip of water under your dishwasher so often that you barely register you are doing so as you head out the door to work. 

While that simple drip may not seem like a major issue now, it could eventually lead to a serious problem that leaves you with a broken appliance and water all over your floor. If that happens to you, call SERVPRO® of East Providence right away so we can get to work for you.

The Impact of Water Damage

Water is flowing behind our walls and through our pipes every day to help us do almost everything within our homes. Because of that, it can leak at virtually any time if something happens unexpectedly. A single drip could turn into a stream, which will silently seep into your floors and behind your walls. 

If that happens, the water can be almost impossible to dry out on your own and that can lead to major water damage and even a mold infestation. Once mold is present, you may be looking at a total reconstruction of your space if the mold starts compromising the integrity of your home.

Taking action quickly and getting the problem taken care of is crucial to your home’s safety and your wallet. 

Responding to the Situation

If you come home to a puddle or a flood, track down the source of the problem as quickly as possible, but avoid walking through any standing water. Shut off electricity to the area as a safety precaution and then shut off the main water valve that is supplying the appliance with the water that is now all over your floor. This is usually inside the cupboard under your sink or in the back of your machine. 

Once you have the situation under control, call us right away and start saving any possessions that could be compromised by the water. Chair legs, couches, high chairs or anything near the water that could be ruined or warped should be moved to a safe location. 

Why a Professional Restoration Is Necessary
While you can probably handle cleaning up the standing water on your own with some bath towels or a few paper towel rolls, you probably won’t be able to ensure the water behind your walls and floors has dried up. 

That’s where we come in! Our team comes equipped with thermal imaging cameras that can detect hidden moisture. This is helpful for those stubborn spots like this, and we can position our equipment to dry everything out completely. After that, we can address repairs to make your home as good as new. 

Repairs often include carpet replacement, retiling or laying new floor, or even drywall repair. Water has the unique ability to warp many things, but we can handle the repairs on everything. Lean on us the next time an appliance of yours betrays you and leaves you with a watery mess!

We can help reverse water damage right away. Call SERVPRO of East Providence for fast assistance.

Your Guide to How Our Team Can Protect Your Business | SERVPRO of East Providence

8/17/2023 (Permalink)

Is your business in need of some extra care? Call SERVPRO of East Providence for all of your commercial service needs!

We are so grateful for all of the wonderful business owners in our community! Our area would not be as great as it is without all of the fun, food and entertainment opportunities that we have here.

Our team is locally owned and operated right here in the Providence area, and we are proud of it. This makes us uniquely connected to the other businesses in town because we know what it takes to be successful. While you are running around getting things done every day, the last thing on your mind is a potential disaster that you have not foreseen. 

But a single disaster like a fire or a flood can cause your entire business to come to a screeching halt and it will have a trickle-down effect for everyone involved. That’s where we come in! SERVPRO® of East Providence is proud to offer our full restoration services to the businesses in our community.

Recovering After a Fire

No matter what type of business you run, fire can be devastating. It can rip through warehouses and storefronts in minutes and lay waste to all of your hard work in a single incident. 

Our team is trained in large loss recovery, and we can handle everything from minor repairs after a break room fire to an entire reconstruction due to a chemical fire or incident. We can handle all the debris removal, the cleaning and sanitizing, and even the smoke odor removal. 

Handling a Water Situation

Water damage can occur in multiple situations, and each can be catastrophic in the right conditions. Mother Nature can cause heavy rain to fall fast and furiously, and it can leak down your walls or cause an impact damage which soaks your showroom floor. 

Water damage can also occur due to a burst pipe behind your walls or in a bathroom and can flood your entire main level. 

These situations can create dangerous conditions for your staff and customers to be in your building, but long-term closures can be detrimental to your business. That is why we are here! 

Our team can quickly and efficiently dry up the water and patch the leak so you can be closed for the smallest amount of time. Having a professional handle your restoration will ensure every repair is done to code and your space is safe for your staff to return to. 

Additional Commercial Services
Our services don’t just stop with fire and water damage! We can also handle a mold infestation or a biohazard situation on your property. 

Whether an accident occurs and a bloodborne pathogen situation needs to be cleaned up safely or your sewage line bursts and your basement is filled with the most unpleasant type of water, we have the tools and training to handle it. We will follow all safety protocols while we clean so that everyone stays healthy. 

We can also help with whatever cleaning or construction needs you have! Do you need your carpet cleaned? We can do that. Do you want to add an addition on the side of your building? We can handle that, too. 

Consider SERVPRO of East Providence your one-stop-shop for all things related to the health and success of your building.

We are here to help your business succeed. Call SERVPRO of East Providence for assistance with restoration or anything else you may need.