Steps to take when you find a water leak.

12/6/2024 (Permalink)

Finding a water leak in your home can be stressful, but taking quick action can help minimize damage. Here are some essential steps to take when you find a water leak:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

• Locate your main water valve and shut it off immediately to stop the flow of water. This can prevent further damage while you assess the situation.

2. Turn Off Electrical Power (if necessary)

• If the leak is near electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring, turn off the electricity to prevent the risk of electrical shock or fire. If you're unsure, call an electrician.

3. Contain the Leak

• If possible, use towels, buckets, or containers to catch or divert the water away from important or sensitive areas (e.g., electrical outlets, valuable items).

4. Identify the Source of the Leak

• Try to locate where the leak is coming from. This could be a broken pipe, a leaky faucet, a roof leak, or an appliance malfunction. Knowing the source will help you take the next steps.

5. Assess the Damage

• Take note of the extent of the damage. Check surrounding walls, floors, and ceilings for signs of water damage. Take photos for insurance claims if necessary.

6. Call a Professional

• For significant leaks, or if you’re unable to locate the source, it’s best to call a plumber or SERVPRO Team Harloe. They can stop the leak, assess any structural damage, and help with cleanup and restoration.

7. Dry the Area

• Remove excess water from the affected area as quickly as possible using towels, a mop, or a wet/dry vacuum. This will help prevent mold and mildew from forming.
• Use fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the space. If necessary, remove carpets or upholstery that have absorbed water.

8. Check for Mold

• After the area is dry, inspect for any signs of mold or mildew. If you find mold, you may need to contact a mold remediation specialist to address the issue safely.

9. Notify Your Insurance Company

• Contact your insurance company to report the leak and any damage. Provide documentation, including photos and any repair estimates, to assist with your claim.

10. Prevent Future Leaks

• Once the leak is repaired, take preventive steps to avoid future leaks, such as regular plumbing inspections, cleaning gutters, and insulating pipes to avoid freezing.

By acting quickly and safely, you can reduce water damage and protect your home. If you're ever unsure about handling a water leak, it's always a good idea to call a professional for help!

Give SERVPRO Team Harloe a call today!

Restoring and Repairing your home cost effectively

12/18/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is here to help with all your restoration and repair needs after a flood

Restoring and repairing a home after flood damage requires a comprehensive approach to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Understanding the complete flood restoration process is crucial in engaging the right professionals for this daunting task. It encompasses various stages of repair and cleaning, all of which our team of qualified experts is equipped to handle. Recognizing the significance of professional assistance in returning homes and businesses to their preloss condition is paramount.

In addressing flood damage, prompt action is imperative, starting with containment and emergency services. These initial steps are crucial before mitigation or scoping of the job. Effective planning precedes the restoration process, but certain immediate actions cannot be delayed and need inclusion in the overall restoration plan. Our team employs efficient strategies, commencing with communication through our SERVPRO emergency line.

The gathering of information about the disaster is pivotal. Our professionals rely on data shared through our emergency line to prepare adequately. Thorough details enable us to mobilize the right personnel, equipment, and products from our warehouse. There are three primary ways we gather essential data for formulating a restoration plan:

1. Emergency Phone Call: Sharing comprehensive information with our emergency line operators prepares our technicians for the situation awaiting them.
2. Job Scoping: Our experienced project managers assess the flood-damaged property, determining necessary actions for restoration and documenting losses or additional measures needed.
3. Customer Conversations: Leveraging the customer's insights helps prioritize actions during the restoration process.

Creating staging areas is an efficient approach our SERVPRO technicians utilize. These areas, set up in unaffected sections of the home close to the damaged areas, facilitate easy access to equipment and protective gear. This practice minimizes trips in and out of the house, ensuring efficiency, convenience, preventing cross-contamination, and proximity to drying/work zones.

Efficient strategies for water extraction are vital due to the potential damage caused by standing water. Removal of standing water is crucial to focus on drying, cleaning, and other recovery actions. Various methods are employed:

1. Trash Pumps: These gas-powered pumps effectively remove flood water, including smaller solids and debris.
2. Wet Vacuums: Versatile extractors with different attachments suitable for removing water below two inches in depth.
3. Subcontractors: In cases of severe contamination, subcontractors may be engaged for handling blackwater incidents.

Numerous initial tasks must be addressed promptly after a flood, bridging the gap between potential contamination and removing bulk materials. Our dedicated team of water restoration technicians and cleaning specialists is committed to restoring the property to its original state seamlessly, ensuring it's "Like it never even happened."

Easy Water Heater Maintenance Tips Anyone Can Do

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

If you are experiencing water damage caused by a water heater, SERVPRO Of Pickens County is ready to assist you.

Easy Water Heater Maintenance Tips Anyone Can Do 

The typical life expectancy for a water heater is 10-12 years. However, they can experience problems early on if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance can extend the longevity of your water heater while helping prevent the likelihood of catastrophic failure that causes severe damage. 

Below are a few tips on water heater maintenance you can use to prolong the life of your hot water heater. 

Tip #1: Frequently Flush Your Water Heater 

Your water heater stores water, even when you are not using it. If you do not flush your water heater annually, mineral deposits will begin building up in the unit. As mineral deposits continue to build up in your water heater, the heating elements become stifled. As more deposits build up on the heating elements, your water heater becomes less effective in retaining heat. 

To flush your water heater, whether it is gas-powered or electric, you need to turn off the source of power to your unit. Next, connect a garden hose to the spigot of your water heater, and place the end of the house outside or in a safe area to flush the water out. Before opening the valve on your water heater, start a faucet nearby to help create better flow in the system. 

Please note that the water in your water heater will be hot, so be careful when opening the valve. You should flush the water for around 5-10 minutes or until you stop seeing sediment and the water runs clear. 

Tip #2: Lower Temperature 

A simple water heater maintenance tip is to lower the temperature level of the unit. Lowering the temperature can help:

• Reduce the chance of being scolded 
• Decrease utility bills 
• Prolong the life of the unit

Higher temperatures can cause quicker wear and tear on your water heater. It is recommended you set the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit to help reduce energy usage. 

Tip #3: Frequently Check The Pressure Relief Valve

Another quick and easy water heater maintenance tip is checking your pressure relief valve. If pressure builds in your water heater, it can cause a catastrophic failure that may lead to the unit itself exploding. 

You can quickly fix this by turning off the power source to your unit and turning off the cold water supply valve. Place a bucket under the pressure release valve and drain the pressure using the valve tab. Once the pressure buildup is gone, the water will stop draining. 

Water Heater Maintenance Importance

Water heater maintenance can prolong the life of the unit and assist in preventing extensive water damage. The average life of a water heater can differ depending on regular maintenance and the type of unit, but they can last around 10-12 years but can begin experiencing issues as early as eight years old. 

If you are experiencing water damage caused by a water heater, SERVPRO Of Pickens Countyis ready to assist you. We provide 24/7 emergency services 365 days a year. We have the expertise and equipment to properly restore your property and make your water damage "Like it never even happened."

There's Water In My Crawl Space What Do I Do?

7/27/2021 (Permalink)

When water gets into your crawl space, it can be an enormous problem for you if you do not address it immediately.

There's Water In My Crawl Space What Do I Do? 

Your crawl space is often the most neglected part of your home. You probably do not check your crawl space regularly. Water can build up in your crawl space and create several problems. When the ground gets wet and dry throughout the seasons, this can lead to elevated moisture in your crawl space. 

What Happens When Your Crawl Space Is Wet

There are three common ways water can get in your crawl space: a leak, water seepage from the soil, or condensation. When you see puddles of water in your crawl space, you need to address them immediately. Moisture can cause rot, energy loss, and even attract pests to your home. 

Here are some of the problems you will experience when you have water in your crawl space: 

• High Energy Bills: Having a crawl space means you have more area to heat and cool. However, when there is wetness inside your crawl space, the damp air will take more energy to heat up or cool down; in turn, you will use more power and have higher energy bills. 

• Mold: Undeniably, mold loves moisture, and it feeds on organic materials, such as paper, wood, and cardboard. When mold is present in your crawl space, it will release airborne spores that can make their way into your home. Mold spores can cause health effects and can have a detrimental effect on your property value. 

• Dust Mites and Pests: Dust mites love humid environments, which means they would love to be in the dirt in your crawl space. They can float in the air and trigger allergies and asthma. Dust mites can also attract pests, such as termites, mice, rats, and even snakes. 

Fix Your Crawl Space Problem

If you notice water in your crawl space, the first thing you should do is determine where the water is emerging. Surface water that gets into your crawl space comes from roof drainage, overflowing gutters, grading issues, or leaky basement windows. Groundwater could be another reason there is excess water in your crawlspace. Soil that surrounds your foundation can become overly saturated after heavy rain or snow. Finally, issues with your plumbing can also cause water to get into your crawl space. 

Always Keep It Dry

When you have identified why water gets into the crawl space, you will find ways to keep it dry. A dehumidifier and sump pump system can prevent water and moisture damage. Now, if your crawl space leaks when it rains, you need to get it under control. The main goal here is to get rid of humidity in the crawl space to prevent moisture. 

Conclusion

When water gets into your crawl space, it can be an enormous problem for you if you do not address it immediately. It is always a good idea to have regular inspections to ensure that everything is well. If you do notice moisture in your crawl space, you should have a professional fix it right away before it creates more issues that can be costly. 

SERVPRO of Pickens County offers excellent water damage restoration. Let us make it "Like it never even happened." Call us today - (864) 855 - 3993. 

Preventing HVAC Water Damage

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Preventing HVAC Water Damage

If your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is not maintained correctly, it can cause severe water damage. Clogged drains, frozen evaporator coils, and pipes that are not connected correctly are common causes of HVAC water damage. You must care for your HVAC system at least once a year. Regular maintenance helps to prolong the life of your unit and prevent additional heating or cooling expenses. Most HVAC maintenance tasks are pretty easy to do yourself, so there is no need to hire a professional most of the time. 

Preventing HVAC Water Damage

Change your HVAC filter regularly.

• Changing the filter prevents the unit from overworking, which can cause freezing and then defrosting on the evaporator coils, leading to HVAC water damage.
• Change the filter at least once a month with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. Some air filters only need to be changed twice a year or once a month, depending on their type and how often you use your HVAC system.
• Check your instruction manual first to know what type of filter you need and how often you need to change it.
• Hire a contractor to change the filters if the filters are inside the furnace or air handler.

Clean the condenser

• The condenser is the exterior portion of your air conditioner or heat pump. It requires proper airflow to work efficiently.
• Once a year, at the beginning of spring, remove any dirt or other debris accumulating on the condenser.
•  Keep plants away from the condenser and remove any cover from it to ensure proper airflow.
• Leave at least two feet of space between the unit and the bushes or shrubs in your yard.

Maintain the condensation drain line

• When your AC unit runs, check the condensation line opening to make sure you see water flowing to the drain. The amount of water that flows depends on the humidity level in the house.
• Clean the AC drainage holes. Locate the drainage hole on the base of the cabinet (beneath the evaporator fins). Use a paper clip or wire to poke through the hole and clear it, thus ensuring the AC drainage is kept clear.
• Once or twice a year, flush out your drain line with an algaecide to prevent mold or algae from forming. Use a commercial solution or regular bleach.
• Make sure to properly connect and install the main drain line and emergency drain line.
• Check that the pipe is oriented correctly, as the weather might have knocked it out of alignment.

How to unclog the drain line

• Sometimes, the drain line gets clogged with algae, dirt, mineral deposits, and even mold or mildew, causing water to overflow into your home.
• Attach a wet/dry vacuum to the drain line (removing the paper filter first) and suck the clog out.
• Consider installing an overflow shut-off device on the drain line to automatically turn off the A/C unit if the drain line backs up.

Install a condensation pump

• To avoid HVAC water damage, install a condensation pump. That helps excess water flow into the proper disposal drain.
• Additionally, install a safety float switch to automatically shut down the power to the AC unit whenever condensation builds up, and there is a risk of water overflow.

Maintain the overflow drain pan

• The drain pan collects water that has overflowed due to a clogged drain line.
• Over time, drain pans made of metal or plastic may get damaged, resulting in leaks and water damage. If you notice leaks near the drain pan, carefully inspect it for damage using a flashlight.
• Consider patching up small holes or cracks using epoxy glue or replacing the pan entirely.
• Regularly clean the drain pan. Rinse the pan and clean it with a bleach-water mixture to clear out any dirt or mold growth.

Is your HVAC unit causing water damage? SERVPRO of Pickens County can help!

Knowing how to prevent AC from leaking is sometimes not enough to prevent your unit from causing water damage. When leaks occur, call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855 - 3993. We will make it "Like it never even happened." 

Water Damage Restoration Tips Everyone Should Know

7/15/2021 (Permalink)

Water Damage Restoration Tips Everyone Should Know

Leaking pipes, burst sewer lines, and natural disasters can leave your home severely damaged. If your home is affected by water damage, you must quickly identify the cause and move fast to avoid secondary damage. 

Dealing with water damage in your home can be tremendously stressful to deal with, especially when it can lead to more problems for you to deal with later on. While these repairs often call for help from SERVPRO of Pickens County, there are a few steps you can use to minimize damage while you wait for help to arrive. 

What Does Water Damage Affect?

Water is a vital part of life, but water can also destroy anything and everything in its path – leaving you with a gigantic mess to clean up. As a homeowner, you must understand what areas water can seriously damage within your home. To be safe, you need to inspect the following locations for damage:

• Drywall
• Plaster
• Insulation
• Wood
• Framing
• Floor coverings
• Electrical wiring
• Pipes
• Appliances
• HVAC

As you can see, water can wreak havoc on your home’s structure and foundation and quickly wrack up a hefty restoration bill if left unattended.

What to Consider Before Water Damage Restoration?

To determine whether you will clean up the area yourself or call SERVPRO of Pickens County, the first thing you want to do is to evaluate the situation and consider a few of these factors:

Water Volume:

If you have a small or moderate amount of water in your home, you can typically manage the cleanup on your own if you have the proper tools. However, if there is a significant amount of flooding that is not going away despite your efforts, it is best to call a SERVPRO of Pickens County.

Source of Damage:

Before you call us, you need to determine the source of water and stop it if possible. If you cannot stop it yourself, consider calling a plumber before us. There are three categories of water we use to assess the severity of damage in your home.

1. Category One: Water in category one originates from a sanitary source. Rainwater, water from leaky pipes, burst supply lines, broken toilet tanks or toilet bowls, or water from overflowed sinks or tubs, is categorized as a category one level of contamination. This water does not contain any contaminants and will not harm you. 
2. Category Two: Water leaking from appliances like your dishwasher or washing machine is gray water. It is slightly contaminated and categorized as a category two level of contamination. 
3. Category Three: Category three water is the most harmful type of water and is heavily contaminated. This water comes from the sewer or flooding from a nearby water source such as a river. It contains health hazards and is unsafe to handle.

3 Thing You Can Do Before Help Arrives: 

Properly assess your situation, and call SERVPRO of Pickens County. It is important to note that wet materials begin to mold after 24 hours, so you don’t have time to wait! There are a few things you can do while you wait for our arrival. 

1.Disconnect Outlets:

When you discover water damage, you need to unplug all electronics immediately. While you may not see the severity of the water damage, you still need to exercise caution around appliances and gas lines. Using this equipment could cause electrical shocks or even explosions. 

2. Inspect For Mold: 

Certain mold strains are toxic to humans and pose serious health effects. Mold can rapidly spread through your entire home once it attaches to organic material, so it is in your best interest to inspect for growth to avoid any health effects. 

3. Dry Water Out: 

If possible, you need to eliminate all moisture and dry out the affected areas. You can use fans or a large-capacity dehumidifier to circulate air and dry out the carpet, wood, and other surrounding materials. While this won’t prevent mold growth altogether, properly drying out the area will help minimize the damage.

Water Damage and Your Appliances.

8/5/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage and Your Appliances. 

Any appliance whose pipes or other fixtures feed into a water line has the potential to develop clogs or spring leaks that can lead to serious water damage if left unchecked. Below are the five most common sources of water damage we see most often.  

1. Refrigerators.  The most common source of water damage we see is refrigerators. Most refrigerators are fitted with drain lines or ice makers. Drain lines in refrigerators can easily clog, which can cause water to puddle around the bottom of the fridge. Ice makers in refrigerators can cause water damage when the water supply line springs a leak.  
2. Dishwashers. Faulty float switches or strainers clogged with food and debris can cause dishwashers to overflow and pour water into your home.  
3. Washing Machines.  Clogged floor drains and loose hose connections are usually the main reasons why washing machines overflow. 
4. Water Heaters. A faulty temperature and pressure relief valve, a leaky plumbing connection, or corrosion can cause your water heater to malfunction and flood your home. 
5. Toilets. Overflowing toilets are usually caused by a clogged drain or a malfunctioning float that allows too much water to flow into the tank. 

3 Common Types Of Water Damage and How To Prevent Them.

7/17/2020 (Permalink)

3 Common Types Of Water Damage and How To Prevent Them.

You control every aspect of your home, from your decor down to the ac. Unfortunately, you cannot always control when disaster decides to strike. Water damage can be especially destructive. Although you can't control when or if you will have water damage, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risk. 

1. Sewer Back-Up: To prevent your sewer from backing up, make sure the main wastewater pipe is fitted with a backflow valve. This valve will need to be inspected regularly by a plumber. 
2. Groundwater infiltration: A sump pump is recommended to alleviate groundwater from flooding your home. We recommend installing an emergency generator so the pump will always be ready to operate at all times. 
3. Water Heaters: Water heaters do not last forever. Rust will eventually damage the tank and cause leaks. However, this can be prevented by installing a tray or drip pan under your water heater. Once your water heater reaches ten years old, it needs to be inspected regularly.  

If you have water damage please call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855 -3993! Visit www.SERVPROpickenscounty.com for more information!

4 Steps To Keep Your Basement Dry

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

4 Steps To Keep Your Basement Dry. 

A wet basement feels and smells nasty. It can ruin floors, walls, and create mold growth. The first step to successfully stopping your basement from flooding is to identify the root problem. Here are four strategies you can use to keep your basement dry. 

1. Add gutter extensions: if your downspouts are dumping water less than 5ft away from your home, you can add plastic or metal gutter extension to guide water further out. 
2. Plug gaps:  Do you notice water dripping through cracks or gaps around plumbing pipes? You can plug these yourself using hydraulic cement or polyurethane caulk.  
3. Restore the crown:  Your home should sit on a "crown" of soil that slopes at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet in all directions. You can build this back with a shovel and dirt. 
4. Reshape the landscape: Create a berm (a mound of dirt) or a swale (a wide, shallow ditch) landscape features that redirect water long before it reaches your house. 

 If you have water damage in your basement call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855 - 3993! 

For more information please visit www.SERVPROpickenscounty.com

4 Tips To Protect Your Home From Flooding

7/13/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding is the leading cause of damage to homes. Other than being prepared to evacuate in case of a flood, there are several things you can do to your Pickens County home to minimize water damage. We made a list of simple steps you can take to keep your home safe. 

1. Seal any cracks in your foundation: Use mortar or masonry caulk to fill in any gaps in the foundation.
2. Have your lawn graded away from your home: If you notice rainwater pooling around your foundation, your yard may be tilted towards your home. 
3. Install a flood sensor: A flood sensor can detect a small leak before it can cause significant damage. 
4. Relocate your expensive or sentimental items to higher ground: If floodwaters are coming, move your valuables to higher areas to protect them. 

 If you have flood damage call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855 - 3993! 

For more information please visit www.SERVPROpickenscounty.com

No Water Damage Is Too Big For SERVPRO of Pickens County

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

After noticing his dishwasher leaking, this homeowner decided to call SERVPRO of Pickens County. Our crew arrived promptly and immediately began the extraction process. Unfortunately, the damage was much more severe than the homeowner thought. Upon further inspection, our team found that the continuous hard floors in the home showed significant signs of water damage. After taking a few moisture readings, the crew discovered the subfloor was saturated with water and brittle. Before we began removing the floors, we removed the homeowner's furniture, keepsakes, and other belongings in these areas. The items were packed up and moved to our safe and secure storage space. Once the moveout was complete, our team began removing the cabinets and flooring. Then special drying equipment was set up to dry out the structure. After the structure was completely dry, we prepped the areas for the restoration process.

When Your Basement Floods Call SERVPRO of Pickens County.

7/30/2019 (Permalink)

What do you do when you walk in your home and find that your basement is flooded with water? The very first step you should take for a successful recovery is to call SERVPRO of Pickens County. That's what this customer did after discovering this mess. Our crew went out and assessed the damage and put together a comprehensive plan that would have the structure dry in a couple of days. Equipment was set up to dry out the wet areas. Then the demolition process was started. We took moisture readings and monitored every day until the structure was dry. The customer loved the daily updates and was ecstatic over the finished product.

When you have a disaster don't wait - call SERVPRO of Pickens County (864) 855-3993!

Don't Panic Call SERVPRO of Pickens County

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

The water heater burst and dumped mass amounts of water into this home. The kitchen, laundry room, bathroom, closet, and living room all suffered from water damage. SERVPRO of Pickens County responded with equipment ready to make it "Like it never even happened." We started the mitigation process by extracting the standing water. Then our team removed materials that were not salvageable.  The carpet padding, vinyl flooring, and part of the drywall were removed to aid in the drying process. Our crew worked fast to prevent any mold growth or secondary damage. Special drying equipment was set up to ensure that the different areas would be dry. We monitored daily and kept up with the drying process through daily moisture readings. The homeowner was ecstatic with the final result and our quick response time. 

Ruptured Water Line Versus Hardwood Floors

7/15/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damaged Hardwoods

This homeowner called SERVPRO of Pickens County after noticing a few changes in their hardwood flooring. Unfortunately, unbeknownst to them the main water line in their home had ruptured. The water went untouched for a week before signs of damage began to appear. When our team arrived, most of the hardwood flooring displayed signs of severe water damage. Our production team surveyed the damage and determined the best course of action to mitigate the damage. To start the process, the crew moved the customer's belongings and furniture outside of the home and into a safe and secure location. The team then began the process of removing the flooring and set up special drying equipment to stabilize the work areas. After a few days, all the damaged hardwoods had been demoed, and the wet areas had been dried out. 

Tips To Minimize Water Damage From a Flood

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Tips To Minimize Water Damage From a Flood: 

To prevent water damage from a flood from ruining your home use these tips and tricks. 

1. Have your plumber check the sump-pit and sumps pump (if you have them) to ensure they are working correctly and not blocked. 
2. Ask your plumber about installing a backwater valve. This device stops water and sewage from coming back into the house during heavy rainfall. 
3. Invest in water leak sensors and alarms that alert you to leaks in the home. 
4. Keep your floor drains clear of obstructions. 
5. Seal cracks around windows and in the basement, foundation and floors. 
6. Protect your HVAC system. If possible have a professional elevate the furnace and hot water tank, to get it off the basement floor.
7. Install shelves in your basement to keep items off your floor. Do not keep valuables and important documents in the basement. Store them upstairs where they are less likely to become damaged. 
8. Do not pour fats, oils, and grease down your drain. They can solidify and clog pipes. 
9. When there is heavy rain minimize your water use.  

Tips To Minimize Water Damage From A Flood: Inside The Home

Prevent Water Damage On Your Roof

10/19/2018 (Permalink)

Prevent Water Damage On Your Roof

Replace Missing Shingles as Soon as Possible: Cracked, bent, and missing shingles provide an opportunity for leaks. 

Fix Ponding Surfaces Immediately: If pools of standing water are on your roof after it rains, you could have a big problem. Ponding can leave you vulnerable to rot and leaks. 

Clean Your Gutters Regularly: Gutters carry rainwater and rain runoff away from your roof and siding. If your gutters are clogged, they can't function properly. Lookout for leaks, rusted or twisted gutters. These could present problems down the line. 

Inspect Flashing Around Vents, Valleys, chimneys, Pipes, Skylights, and other Punctures and Seals: Any place where there are opening or joints in your roof, there is a potential for leaks. 

Keep an Eye on Your Attic Ceiling: You can spot leaks through the damage on your attic ceiling. If you notice damaged or moldy insulation, rotting, stained boards or ceiling tiles, puckering or discolored sheetrock, you might have a leak. 

Remove Ice Dam Buildup During Heavy Snows: You can prevent ice dams manually by using a roof rake to scrape off the snow and ice. 

Best Ways To Prevent Water Damage On Your Roof  

5 Tips To Prevent Water Damage To Your Pickens County Home

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

5 Tips To Prevent Water Damage To Your Pickens County Home

Water is very invasive and can quickly spread throughout your property in a matter of minutes, absorbing into floors, walls, furniture, etc. SERVPRO of Pickens County is always here to help whenever you may have a flood or water damage emergency. However, there are a few things you can do to prevent water damage from happening to your Pickens County home.

Be Careful Where You Plant: Some plants and trees have invasive roots. These roots can grow into water lines and cause major damage to your home. Be mindful of sprinkler systems, drainage fields, pipes and septic tanks when planting.

Clean Out Roof Gutters: Clogged gutters can cause water to pour into your foundation, the roof, or your basement. A good way to prevent this is to remove any leaves, bird's nests, sticks, etc from gutters.

Keep An Eye On Your Water Bill: If you notice your water bill increasing, or you receive one that is unusually high, then you may have a leak somewhere. Keep a close eye on your water bill to avoid prolonged water damage to your home.

Use A Drain Snake Instead Of Unclogging Materials: Clogs are inevitable. There is no way to avoid them, but there are better ways to clear them. Chemical drain cleaners can eat away at your pipes and cause leaks. However, a drain snake can cut through most clogs, wont damage your pipes, and is relatively inexpensive.

Never Pour Grease Down Your Sink: When you pour grease down your sink it can congeal and stick to your pipes. This can cause a blockage and some serious damage. Instead, pour grease into an empty container. Once it has hardened, toss it in the trash to dispose of it.

5 Tips To Prevent Water Damage

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – (864) 855-3993

Water Damage Tips For Your Pickens County Home

7/24/2018 (Permalink)

Water Damage Tips For Your Pickens County Home

Flooding and water emergencies do not always occur within normal business hours. However, SERVPRO of Pickens County provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays. You can expect an immediate response time, day or night. Below are some tips on what to do until help arrives.

What You Can Do Until Help Arrives:

• First, ask yourself "is it safe to stay in my home?"
  Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet objects can be VERY heavy, use caution before attempting to remove or pick up items.

What To Do:

• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping or blotting.
• Remove table lamps and other tabletop items from wood furnishings and wipe away the excess water.
• Remove wet upholstery and cushions from the affected area and prop them up for drying.
• Use aluminum foil or wood blocks and place them between furniture legs and wet carpet.
• If damaged occurred during the summer, turn on the air conditioner for maximum drying.
• Remove any wet carpets or rugs.
• Remove art objects and valuables and place them in a dry safe place.
• Gather and remove loose items from the floor.

What Not To Do:

• Do not use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Do not use television or other household items if they have been in the affected area.
• Do not use ceiling fixtures or ceiling fans if they are wet.
• Keep out of rooms where the ceiling is sagging.
• Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpets or floors.

Have A Water Damage Emergency? Call (864) 855-3993

Faster to your Pickens County Water Damage Event

10/2/2017 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Pickens County provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service in Easley, Pickens, Clemson, LIberty, Six Mile and more.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Pickens 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 Pickens 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 – (864) 855-3993

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 Pickens County

SERVPRO of Pickens 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.

Our Certifications:

• UFT - Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician
• IICRC Certified Firm
• ECTP - Employee Certification Training Program
• ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician
• AMRT - Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• CMR - Council-certified Microbial Remediator
• RRRP - Lead-Based Paint Activities and Renovation
• CDS - Commercial Drying Specialist
• WRT - Water Damage Restoration Technician
• CCT - Carpet Cleaning Technician
• SRT - Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration Technician

The Best Smart Leak Detector

10/4/2016 (Permalink)

After spending over 10 hours pouring water, mopping it up, and changing wet socks to test the performance of seven DIY leak detectors, we've decided that the D-Link DCH-S160 Wi-Fi Water Sensor is the best smart water sensor currently available. It's one of the few options that doesn't need a smart-home hub, making it a more affordable solution than the competition because it can work with your existing Wi-Fi network. It can—like the rest of the units we tested—deliver alerts whenever water is present, but it also throws in a few perks that aren't available on any other smart water sensor at this price.

The best smart leak detector

Got Water Damage? Here’s When and Why You Need a Specialist

2/26/2016 (Permalink)

The thing about being a water damage and repair specialist is that no one seems to care about what you do until they desperately need your help.

Got Water Damage? Here’s When and Why You Need a Specialist

How To Prevent Your Pipes From Freezing

12/7/2015 (Permalink)

As winter temperatures begin to creep up around your home you may start feeling nervous about your water pipes and plumbing. If so, you’re not alone. Frozen pipes (or rather, burst pipes) can cause expensive water damage to your home and property. Even a small tear in a water pipe can send hundreds of gallons of water each minute into your home.  

http://porch.com/advice/how-to-prevent-your-pipes-from-freezing/