Water: Silent Destroyer

6/28/2023 (Permalink)

Out of Sight - Out of Mind

There are many that do not use their basements like they used to. Sure, the basement may be fully furnished and fully completed and just waiting for the day it will be utilized. But checking your basement on a regular basis is sort of put out of mind if we do not plan to use it regularly.

So, you can imagine the horror of walking down those basement stairs and stepping into water after months of being closed off from the world. Then finding a gaping hole in the basement ceiling, where water has been slowly eating away at the drywall and paint. Leaving behind wet carpet, damaged contents and worst of all, mold.

Water can be silent, but it can destroy your life and peace of mind. If you have a basement, make sure you are checking it on a regular basis. Add it to your calendar and do a walkthrough at least once per month. Checking for any leaks and signs of moisture or mold growth.

If you do find any leaks or water spots or mold, call the Professionals at SERVPRO of Hannibal to take care of the issue right away.

573-231-0056

Avoid a Flooded Basement

3/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hannibal has been restoring water damage in the area for many years. Our fast emergency response time, equipment, and experience save our customers time and money in most cases.

Here are some tips for protecting your basement from water seepage:

Reseal your basement.

Water in the basement is often caused by cracks in building foundations or floor slabs. If you notice water seepage after heavy rain when you’ve never had a problem, it may mean that your once waterproof cement floors and basement walls have deteriorated. Painting vulnerable areas with water sealant can prevent seepage.

Make sure water drains away from the building.

Seepage is exacerbated by soil that has settled in a way to make water flow toward the building. After a storm, and especially if the ground is already saturated, rainwater that flows towards the building goes down the outside of the foundation wall, potentially through any cracks.

Install a backwater valve.

Though less common than other causes of basement water, sewer backups are messy. Learn more about your sewer responsibilities and install and maintain a backwater valve, which allows sewage to go out, but not come back in.

How to Locate a Bathtub or Shower Leak

3/1/2022 (Permalink)

A shower or bathtub leak can sometimes be hard to spot as there are a variety of places for leaks to emerge from in these areas. Below are some ways to identify a bathtub or shower leak.

Check the Common Sources First

Before tearing into the tile work or uprooting your tub, it pays to investigate the more apparent areas first. After a shower, inspect familiar sources such as the:

• Showerhead face
• The O-ring between the showerhead and arm
• Faucet handles and the surrounding areas
• Caulking at the base or surrounding of a shower/tub combination.

Leak issues are generally noticeable in these spaces and can be detected by sight after running water through your shower.

Have a Professional Inspect Your Shower Pan

A shower pan leak is another usual spot for an issue. These leaks can start from the pan being too old and faulty, or merely due to a new one being installed incorrectly. It pays to have someone inspect this space as a potential cause for any shower leak.

4 Tips to Prevent Water Damage

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

1. Be careful where you plant.

Some plants and trees, like weeping willows, have invasive roots. If you’re not careful then they’ll grow right into your sprinkler system, drainage field, pipes, and septic tanks. Plan before you plant to keep roots away from any water lines.

2. Clean out gutters.

When it rains, a clogged gutter can send water spilling into your home’s foundation, through the roof, or down to your basement. Make sure your gutters are clean. If they are too high then get a professional to check them to be safe.

3. Use a drain snake instead of unclogging chemicals.

These chemicals can eat away at your pipes. If you rely on them a lot then you could be setting yourself up for leaks. Owning a drain snake is an excellent solution to clear away clogs. They are pretty inexpensive, and you can get them at your local hardware store. They can cut through most any clog without damaging pipes.

4. Never pour grease down your sink.

It doesn’t matter if you flush it with hot or cold water; grease can still cling to your pipes and could cause some severe damage and blockage. The safest thing to do is pour your grease in an empty can. Once it hardens then you can toss it in the trash.

Prevent Frozen and Busted Pipes

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

The following are preventative steps to keep your pipes from freezing and busting this winter:

-Turn off outside water valves to prevent frozen pipes.

-Know the location of your home’s main water valve and how it works to shut it off.

-Conserve your home’s energy – but don’t go too low. Also, keep a steady thermostat. Keeping a consistent temperature puts less strain on the furnace.

-Make sure your water heater runs properly.

-Insulate pipes. Exposed pipes are the most likely to freeze. The more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be.

-Let water drip. A trickle of water could be all it takes to keep your pipes from freezing.

-Open bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors. This will allow heated air to circulate beneath your cabinets and warm up your pipes. Especially if they are located along an exterior wall.

-If you see water in your home or business then immediately shut off your water main. You can figure out the source of the water loss later!

If your pipes do unfortunately bust then you can trust SERVPRO of Hannibal to be there to make it “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Hannibal and Your Water Loss

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hannibal Professionals are trained to safely clean and restore your home, utilizing the following procedures:

• Identify the Source/Type of Water
• Measure Temperature and Humidity for Drying Analysis
• Survey the Extent of Damage and Inspect the Premises for Hidden Moisture
• Perform Emergency Water Extraction
• Move and Block Furniture & Contents
• Inspect Carpet Pad/Carpet and Provide Service
• Apply Necessary Treatments (Disinfectants/Deodorization)
• Utilize Advanced Drying and Monitoring Equipment
• Dispose of Refuse

Our Professionals have the equipment, training, and experience to find and dry unseen water. They go through extensive computer training before heading out to the field to learn hands on.  They are trained how to properly use our different kinds of equipment. There will always be an IICRC water certified technician on site. You can trust SERVPRO of Hannibal to do the job right!

Leak Prevention Tips

10/22/2021 (Permalink)

Water leaks within a business can seep into flooring, carpets, baseboards and walls while moving throughout the structure, potentially creating mildew and staining walls. Quick action is critical in avoiding costly repairs and expensive downtime. SERVPRO of Hannibal Professionals understand the water damage event can not only disrupt your facility, it can also interrupt day-to-day business functions – possibly closing the business and ultimately affecting your revenues.

Leak Prevention Tips

Regularly check the following items for leaks:

Exterior

• Check roofing for deterioration.
• Check gutters and down spouts for blockage.
• Check basements and crawl spaces for moisture.

Interior

• Check appliances in break rooms and cafeterias.
• Check sinks and toilets in restrooms.
• Check HVAC for leaks and blockage.

We hope these tips help you prevent a water loss at your business!

Small Water Leaks can Turn into Large Problems

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

There’s no such thing as a small disaster – especially when a small leak now could blossom into a big claim later. Unseen water can soak through walls, seep through carpet and pool on subfloors, causing major problems over time. Instead of trusting untrained eyes, call trusted professionals at SERVPRO® of Hannibal.

Areas that can be affected by a small water leak:

Brick Exterior

Sheathing

Wall Stud

Insulation

Interior Area

Drywall

Baseboard

Carpet

Carpet Padding

Bottom Wall Plate

Sub-Floor

Floor Joist

Sill Plate

Basement

Foundation

If you have any questions about how these different areas can be affected in your home then please give us a call!

We have the equipment, training and experience to find and dry unseen water before secondary damages set in. To help leaks from becoming big problems, call us at SERVPRO of Hannibal!

573-231-0056

Clean Water vs Contaminated Water

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

Please be aware of the differences between clean water and contaminated water.

Damage from Clean Water:

• If necessary, turn off the water supply or contact a trained professional to do so.
• If access to the power distribution pane is protected from possible electrical shock, turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the house.
• Using a mop and a blotting motion, remove as much excess water as possible.
• After removing lamps and tabletop pieces, wipe excess water from wood furniture. Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying. Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.

Damage from Contaminated Water:

• Avoid any interaction with sewage and sewage-contaminated products and do not walk through contaminated areas because you can spread damage to unaffected areas.
• If there is a risk of spreading dirty air, do not turn on the HVAC system.
• Do not use household fans to dry the structure; air flow may disperse pollutants. If exposed to polluted areas, discard any food and/or items for personal hygiene and cleanliness.

SERVPRO® of Hannibal has the answers to all your water questions. Never hesitate to give us a call! 573-231-0056

Winter Water Damage

2/19/2021 (Permalink)

This extreme winter weather can bring many problems to your home or business. Here are the most common things we see:

Frozen Pipes

A frozen pipe can burst at the point where the ice blockage inside the pipe is located, but typically the rupture is caused by the backflow pressure between the water source and the blockage. A burst pipe can cause considerable damage to your property if not addressed quickly. SERVPRO of Hannibal professionals are faster to any disaster, bringing the latest equipment and training to help make your water damage “Like it never even happened.”

Ice Dams

Ice dams can be a major problem during the winter season. They form when heated air melts roof snow downward into water dammed behind still-frozen ice. When the trapped water cannot safely flow or run into the gutter system, it can backflow under the roof’s shingles and into the structure’s interior areas. We can help mitigate water damage caused by ice dams and help you get your structure back to preloss condition.

Call SERVPRO of Hannibal today for all of you winter water damage needs!

573-231-0056

Water Restoration Basics

1/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hannibal professionals are experts at Water Restoration. We understand that it is not common knowledge so we want to share with you some of the basic things we consider at a water loss.

Types of Water

• Clean - Broken pipe, Icemaker, Drain Overflow

No waste or contaminants

• Gray – Washing machine, Dishwasher, Roof Leak

Some soils and contaminants

• Black – Raw sewage, Floods

High degree of waste and contaminants.

Water Mitigation Procedure

• Extraction of excess water
• Mold and microbial prevention
• Drying Process: Dehumidification
• Monitoring the drying process
• Rebuild and final cleanup

Speed Is the Key!

Immediate response lessens damage:

• Less wood and drywall saturation
• Less delamination
• Reduced carpet and furniture stains
• Fewer warping hardwood floors
• Less mold/mildew
• Less contents damage

If your home or business suffers a water loss then call the experts at SERVPRO of Hannibal! 573-231-0056

Water Damage Questions and Emergency Water Damage Tips

10/31/2020 (Permalink)

Water Damage Key Questions

• Home phone? Business phone?
• Date and time loss occurred?
• What is the source of water?
• What is the type of water?
• Is it clean, gray, or black?
• Is there structural damage?
• Is electricity available?
• Is there standing water?
• What areas are affected?
• Has the water source been repaired and replaced?

Emergency Water Damage Tips

(These tips are for clean water situations only.)

• Shut off the water source if possible.
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
• Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Do not use a household vacuum to remove water.
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
• Do not leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpeting.

Faster to Any Size Disaster

10/26/2020 (Permalink)

Call the Cleanup Team that is Faster to Any Size Disaster. The first 48 hours after a water loss can make the difference between restoring versus replacing damaged property and personal belongings. Rapid response and timely mitigation can help prevent water damage from creating long-term problems.

SERVPRO of Hannibal professionals understand returning to normal is your primary concern. Our response teams are trained in caring for both you and your property. By responding quickly with a full line of water cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of Hannibal professionals can help you get your home or business back up and running quickly and help protect you property and belongings.

If your home or business suffers a water damage then contact SERVPRO of Hannibal to help make it “Like it never even happened.”

Water Loss 101: Part Three

3/30/2020 (Permalink)

This is the third and final part of our Water Loss Series.

Extraction Equipment

The most effective method of removing moisture from a structure is extraction. When the water is extracted quickly, the environment can usually be dried much faster. 

• Extractors are used in cleaning carpets and upholstery, as well as removing water from floors following a water damage. Extractors can either be truck-mounted or portable, allowing for greater access inside structures.

Air Moving Equipment

Air movers are used in water damage restoration to enhance evaporation at the surface level, thereby reducing drying time. As airflow at the surface level increases, the moisture in the air increases. This moisture is then eliminated through proper use of dehumidification equipment. Many different types of air movers are used depending on the location of the moisture and the surface being dried.

Dehumidification Equipment

By extracting water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers lower the relative humidity, which in turn increases the rate of evaporation. In a water-damaged structure, dehumidifiers pull in the moist, humid air and then discharge dry, warm air. The dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from wet materials. We use two types of dehumidifiers:

• Refrigerant Dehumidifiers work similarly to air conditioners.
• Desiccant Dehumidifiers use chemicals, called desiccants, that readily absorb moisture from the air.

If you have any questions then please give SERVPRO of Hannibal a call at 573-231-0056.

Water Loss 101: Part Two

3/27/2020 (Permalink)

This piece of detection equipment is called a moisture meter.

This the second part of our Water Loss series. Below will explain the different kinds of Detection Equipment we use.

Detection Equipment

Scoping involves locating the areas of the structure into which water has intruded and defining the extent to which the structure and contents have absorbed moisture. Moisture detection devices are also used to verify an environment has been dried thoroughly.

• Moisture Sensors are used to detect moisture in carpets and carpet padding.
• Moisture Meters are used to determine the actual moisture content of various materials. The moisture tester provides accurate moisture readings that enable the technician to monitor the drying process.
• Thermo-hygrometers measure both temperature and relative humidity. Capturing these two readings, our professional using a psychometric chart can calculate specific humidity, dew point and vapor pressure.
• Infrared Cameras can identify the location and extent of moisture in walls very effectively.
• Manometers allow our technicians to measure the difference in air pressure when creating a negative air pressure environment.

Keep your eye out for our final water blog of this series about Extraction, Air Moving, and Dehumidification Equipment!

Water Loss 101: Part One

3/26/2020 (Permalink)

We want to keep the public informed on the science and equipment behind the drying process when your home or business suffers a water loss. We will be having a series of three blogs to further educate you on what our highly trained professionals had to learn before going into the field.

The Right Equipment

SERVPRO of Hannibal understands using the proper equipment makes a measurable difference in reducing claims loss expense. When time matters, technology and equipment must be counted on to perform. Our professionals will answer your call with fast action, exceptional equipment and trained, uniformed personnel. Certainly, the right tool for the job is vital to timely mitigation.

Psychometrics

Psychometry is the study of the air and its properties. The properties of temperature, humidity, vapor pressure and dew point are measured to evaluate air conditions in the structure, enabling our technicians to create the proper atmosphere for more efficient drying.

Water can damage materials in two ways:

• First, materials absorb water through direct contact.
• Second, materials absorb water from the air. Measuring the moisture content of the air is critical to the drying process.

Restoration professionals must establish an environment favorable for drying. The restoration professional must also understand how to manipulate temperature and humidity levels to produce optimum drying conditions without causing secondary damages through improper drying processes.

Stay tuned for Part Two about Detection Equipment!

Undiscovered Leaks can Damage Your Business and Home

1/10/2020 (Permalink)

Undiscovered leaks and moisture build-up can cause damage to the floors, walls and ceilings of your business, leading to soft dry wall, stained ceiling tiles and other more serious problems. Although the damage may go unnoticed for an extended period of time, proper cleanup is vital to the restoration of your property and equipment.

Thermal Imaging equipment can detect even the smallest amounts of moisture in your home or business. After locating the water damage, SERVPRO of Hannibal professionals are trained in water extraction and drying to help get you back in business.

Maintenance Tips:

• Inspect ceiling tiles regularly for discoloration or leaks. This could be a sign of leaks in the HVAC unit or piping.
• Check waterlines in coffee makers, refrigerators, and water filtration systems for kinds or leaks, annually.
• Remove standing water with a mop and seek professional assistance for complete drying and restoration.

You can trust the heroes at SERVPRO of Hannibal to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us at 573-231-0056!

Water Intrusion in One Room can Mean Water Damage in Other Rooms

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

What you don’t see…

Water intrusions invade floors, ceilings and walls to find the lowest point in your business’ structure. Water from an overflowing bathroom stall or other water incidents will search for pinhole crevices and cracks in your floors and walls looking for a way to travel down in the building. Surfaces such as wood, drywall and carpet pull water away from plain sight and into the interiors of the structure.

You are not alone.  Should a water incident occur in your business, remove excess water if possible, remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying and place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs. These tips may help prevent further damage to your business.

SERVPRO of Hannibal Professionals can help:

• SERVPRO’S 1-4-8 Service Response Guidelines helps you regain control and peace of mind.
• Trained, uniformed technicians arrive with clean trucks and the latest equipment to locate the source of the damage, detect moisture levels in your business and dry all affected areas to meet industry standards when possible.
• Quality service through documentation and continued communication helps ensure you are satisfied.

We are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help you get your business back in business. Call us at 573-231-0056!

Emergency Water Damage Process

6/17/2019 (Permalink)

One Hour:

Within one hour from notice of loss, a SERVPRO of Hannibal Professional will contact you to arrange for service. You’ll know help is on the way!

Four Hours:

Within four hours of loss notification, a technician will be on-site to start mitigation services. The key to reducing damage and saving money is responding quickly to your damage.

Detailed Explanation:

A trained, uniformed and equipped SERVPRO Professional will walk you through the job process step-by-step, explaining what to expect and the anticipated outcome.

Pretesting:

A technician will begin pretesting for restorability, working from the source of the damage outward.

Eight Hours:

Within eight business hours of on-site arrival, a verbal briefing of the scope will be communicated to the appropriate person.

Cleaning & Restoration:

Our technicians will work neatly and efficiently to help you regain control of your property when a damaging event has taken over. They will use state-of-the-art restoration techniques to ensure your property is take care of right the first time.

Final Walk-Through:

After the work has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted with you to help ensure your satisfaction.

Water Damage! Now What?

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Hannibal is trained and equipped to quickly dry and protect your home or business and contents.

A mop and common cleaning products may not be enough for serious water intrusions. We are trained to safely clean and restore you your building, utilizing the following procedures:

• Identify the source/type of water
• Measure temperature and humidity for drying analysis
• Survey the extent of damage and inspect the premises
• Perform emergency water extraction
• Apply necessary treatments (disinfectants/deodorization)
• Utilize drying equipment and monitor drying.

SERVPRO of Hannibal professionals remove moisture, sewage, and contaminants, disinfecting and deodorizing as they safely clean and dry your building and restorable contents.

There is no such thing as a small disaster. Especially when the water you don’t see contains bacteria – or causes mold, rot, and other unseen damage. We are here for you 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.

Call SERVPRO of Hannibal 573-231-0056!

Importance of Water Extraction by SERVPRO of Hannibal.

1/4/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage from a leaking toilet.

Importance of Water Extraction by SERVPRO of Hannibal.

Water extraction is important on so many levels. It should be done by a professional water restoration company such as SERVPRO of Hannibal that is IICRC certified (Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification).

Here is why it is Important for you to use an IICRC certified professional water restoration company when you have a water loss.

First few minutes water (i.e... busted pipe) is coming into your home, business. Water damage starts with your carpet, laminate, hardwood, vinyl flooring, as water can get underneath stated floor coverings, in your heating and air conditioning ducts. As the water starts to rise so does the damage. Your furniture and your personal belongings start to become affected.

Hours 1 to 24 – Furniture swells and cracks, Sheetrock gets soft & crumbly.

Hours 25 to 1 week – Mold starts to grow & appear. Wood begins to warp. Metal starts to corrode.

1 Week & Beyond - Structural Safety Issues start, Health Hazards are in the beginning stages.

Now all the above can happen faster if the water is contaminated (i.e.…. Sump pump failure, Sewer back up) with bacteria associated with this type of water loss.

When Water Damage Strikes

6/28/2018 (Permalink)

The first 24 hours following a water loss are the most important in preventing secondary or permanent damage. Within four hours of loss notification, a SERVPRO of Hannibal technician will be on-site to help ensure that water damage is handled by completing the following steps.

INSPECTION

SERVPRO of Hannibal will inspect affected areas to determine the extent of water damage and will review the inspection with you to answer any questions before beginning any work.

EMERGENCY SERVICES

SERVPRO of Hannibal technician will take steps to help protect your home or business, as well as personal belongings and other contents, from further damage by extracting the excess water and preparing the area for drying. They will explain the needed emergency services to you step-by-step.

MONITORING

To help ensure your home or business and belongings are dried to appropriate industry standards, SERVPRO of Hannibal technicians will monitor the drying process. The updates will be consistently communicated to you.

RESTORATION SERVICES

SERVPRO of Hannibal technicians will repair structural materials, reinstall carpets, and clean affected areas of your property and belongings. A final walk-through of the jobsite will be conducted with you to help ensure the property was returned to preloss condition.

What is De-Lamination?

12/21/2017 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause wood warping, mold on materials and carpet damage.

When carpets get damaged it can become stained or molded if certain types of water get soaked in. Another type of damage is where the backing starts coming away from the main carpet weave. This is called de-lamination. It basically separates the back from the top.

Carpets cant be stretched back in place when this happens. So another reason to get the water dried fast, is it can sometimes stop carpet from de-laminating.

Basement Flooded...WHAT NOW!!!

10/18/2017 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO OF Hannibal Today: 573-231-0056

If flood water is not dealt with quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

A flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO of Hannibal and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We are locally owned and have been representing Hannibal and the surrounding area for 10 years!

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Water Damage -- Canton, MO

7/6/2016 (Permalink)

Did you know SERVPRO of Hannibal cleans up after water damage in Canton, MO.. and beyond? It does not matter the time of day or night, we will respond to your water damage as quickly as possible! If you have a water damage in Canton, MO, call SERVPRO of Hannibal at 573-231-0056.

From carpet cleaning to fire and water cleanup to bio-hazard cleanup, trust the company that has the right equipment, the tested detergents and chemicals. Trained technicians with certifications in all types of will be in your home doing the job right the first time, everytime!