Fluctuating Temperatures and Pipe Bursts: What You Need to Know

12/3/2024 (Permalink)

As the weather shifts between cold and warm temperatures, it can lead to unexpected issues for homeowners—especially when it comes to plumbing. Fluctuating temperatures, especially during winter months, are a leading cause of pipe bursts, and understanding why this happens can help you prevent costly damage to your home.

Why Do Pipes Burst?

When temperatures drop rapidly, water inside pipes can freeze. As water freezes, it expands, creating pressure within the pipe. This buildup of pressure can cause pipes to crack or burst, often in areas that are poorly insulated, like basements, attics, or exterior walls. Even brief periods of freezing temperatures followed by a quick warm-up can trigger this problem.

The Danger of Thawing and Re-freezing

What makes fluctuating temperatures particularly dangerous is the cycle of thawing and refreezing. Pipes that freeze overnight may begin to thaw when the temperature rises during the day. As they thaw, the pressure that had built up may suddenly cause the pipe to crack or rupture. If temperatures drop again, the same pipes could refreeze and cause even more damage.

Preventing Pipe Bursts

Here are a few tips to help protect your pipes during temperature fluctuations:

1. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use pipe insulation or heating tape in areas that are prone to freezing. This is especially important for outdoor faucets, basements, and crawl spaces.

2. Keep Cabinet Doors Open: If you have plumbing running through cabinets in exterior walls, such as under kitchen or bathroom sinks, leave the cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.

3. Let Faucets Drip: On very cold nights, leaving a small stream of water running through faucets can help keep the water moving and prevent freezing.

4. Seal Gaps: Check for cracks or gaps around windows, doors, or pipes, and seal them to prevent cold air from reaching your plumbing.

5. Keep Thermostat Stable: Avoid dramatic changes in indoor temperatures. Keeping your home at a consistent temperature, even when you're not home, can prevent freezing.

What to Do if a Pipe Bursts

If a pipe does burst, quick action is critical. Shut off your water supply immediately to prevent flooding. Then, contact a plumber to assess the damage and begin repairs. If you can safely access the area, try to thaw the frozen section of the pipe with a hairdryer or space heater to relieve the pressure, but be cautious to avoid further damage.

In summary, fluctuating temperatures can be hard on your home’s plumbing, but with a little preparation, you can avoid costly pipe bursts and the headaches they bring. By insulating pipes, sealing gaps, and monitoring indoor temperatures, you can reduce the risk of damage and keep your home safe throughout the winter season.

Unveiling the Drip: Unforeseen Damage Caused by Water Heaters

8/29/2023 (Permalink)

Water heaters are the quiet champions of our homes, diligently providing hot water for our daily needs. However, beneath their unassuming exterior lies the potential for unexpected damage that can disrupt our routines and wreak havoc on our living spaces. In this article, we'll delve into the often-overlooked world of water heater-induced damage, exploring the causes, consequences, and strategies to prevent such issues.

The Hidden Culprits: Causes of Water Heater-Related Damage

1. Leaky Tanks: Over time, the constant exposure to water and the natural corrosion process can weaken the water heater's tank. This can lead to leaks that gradually damage the surrounding area, including floors, walls, and even adjacent appliances.

2. Rust and Corrosion: The interaction of water, metal components, and air creates an environment conducive to rust and corrosion. These processes weaken the tank's structure, leading to leaks and potential flooding.

3. Pressure Buildup: Malfunctions in the pressure relief valve or irregular water pressure can result in pressure buildup within the tank. This can lead to leaks, bursts, or even explosions in extreme cases.

4. Sediment Accumulation: Sediments and minerals present in water tend to settle at the bottom of the tank over time. This accumulation can reduce the efficiency of the heater, potentially causing overheating and damage to the heating element.

Effects of Water Heater-Induced Damage

1. Water Damage: Leaky tanks can gradually saturate floors, walls, and nearby materials, leading to mold growth, rot, and structural damage.

2. Mold and Mildew: Excess moisture caused by leaks can create an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive. These organisms not only damage surfaces but can also pose health risks to occupants.

3. Energy Inefficiency: Damaged heaters may struggle to maintain desired water temperatures, leading to higher energy consumption and inflated utility bills.

4. Property Damage: Leaks, bursts, or tank explosions can cause significant property damage, resulting in costly repairs and potential disruption to daily life.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Water Heater Damage

1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual maintenance routines to flush out sediment, inspect for leaks, and ensure the pressure relief valve is functioning correctly.

2. Temperature Monitoring: Set the water heater's temperature to a safe and efficient level to prevent overheating and mineral buildup.

3. Professional Inspection: Periodically enlist the services of a professional plumber to conduct thorough inspections and address any emerging issues promptly.

4. Pressure Regulation: Install a pressure regulator valve in your plumbing system to prevent pressure fluctuations that could strain the water heater.

Water heaters are indispensable appliances, contributing comfort and convenience to our lives. Yet, the potential for damage they carry requires our attention and proactive care. By understanding the underlying causes of water heater-related damage and implementing preventive measures, we can safeguard our homes, our wallets, and our peace of mind. Remember, a well-maintained water heater is not just an asset; it's a shield against the unseen drips that might otherwise disrupt our daily lives.

Water Heater Maintenance Tips For Your Norwalk Or Wilton Home

8/30/2022 (Permalink)

When you look at your energy bill each month, you may wonder where all your money is going.  What appliances are using so much electricity.  A surprise to many homeowners is that your water heater can use up to 20% of your home’s energy usage on a monthly basis.  Keeping your water heater in good working order ensures that it functions properly, and does not cost you any more than it needs to.  Proper maintenance also mitigates the risk for the equipment failing. 

Follow some or all of the steps below to help your water heater to run properly and last for a long time:

Check the anode rod - The anode rod’s sole function is to wear away, and in the process stops corrosion and rust in your water heater.  Replacing the anode rod when necessary is probably the best way to extend the life and effectiveness of your water heater.

Wash any sediment out - You can do this by draining the tank and refilling it, repeating the process until clear water runs out.  This process will extend the life of your heater.

Insulate, insulate, insulate - Both the heater and any pipes leading to and from the unit can be insulated.  This will keep the temperature consistent, which will keep energy costs down.  More importantly, it will limit your risk for burst pipes in the colder months. 

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any property damage. If you’re in need of restoration for water, fire, or mold damage, call on the premier restoration company in Fairfield County to help. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property.  If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Don’t Wait To Call After Water Damage

3/16/2022 (Permalink)

No one wants to experience property damage at their home or business.  It can be costly and also overwhelming to deal with for some people.  But putting off the problem will only make it worse.  Small problems in your home can rapidly turn into major issues if they are not remediated in a timely fashion. Both structural damage and mold damage can occur if your home is not promptly dried and standing water is left stagnant. To guard yourself from spending extra time, money, and effort, you should begin the remediation process immediately.

There are two calls that you should make as soon as you are aware of damage.

Professional Remediation Company

As detailed above, you need to start the remediation process ASAP. This will save you in more ways than one.  Call a company like SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton, who can arrive on scene quickly to begin.

Your Insurance Company

They will be able to advise you of your policy, deductibles, and coverage.  They will give you a claim number, which will make it easier to facilitate repairs in your home or business.  If needed, they may connect you with an adjuster.

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any storm damage. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property.  If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Mind The Drips

3/15/2022 (Permalink)

Sometimes the smallest amount of excess moisture can lead to big problems.  Water damage can accumulate over time, especially when it is occurring unbeknownst to homeowners. That is why we encourage people to routinely check for drips underneath all sinks in the house.  One drip every once in a while will dry up on its own.  But when a drip is slightly more steady, it can cause a variety of issues, all while no one's the wiser.

Mold - Mold grows when excess moisture in a given area does not dry and mold spores are able to multiply.  And because under-sink areas are usually dark, you may not catch the mold until it is so serious that you need the help of a professional.

Odor - Stale or musty odors can result from under-the-sink drips as well.

Water cost - While technically not water damage, this can still be a costly effect of having pipes that are not absolutely watertight. Similar to a toilet that constantly runs, a dripping pipe or faucet can run up your water bill without you knowing it. 

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any storm damage. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property.  If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Do Musty Smells Mean Water Damage?

2/23/2022 (Permalink)

Whenever undetected water damage happens, there is always the chance for secondary damage like mold, mildew, and foul odors to arise. Sometimes, the water will fix itself by evaporating on its own, without leaving anything behind.  But this is only possible if air flow is naturally present.  If excess water does not evaporate, and is not removed, it can be the perfect condition for mold growth and smells.

A telltale sign that you have unresolved water damage is when a foul smell is detected. You should do your best to find the possible sources of moisture buildup and remove excess water immediately before it can cause serious damage to your home.  Discoloration, warped flooring, and standing water are visual indicators that may develop before smells, so keep an eye out for these.  Common areas for moisture to accumulate are basements, attics, crawlspaces, gutters, and near pipes, although it can happen anywhere in your home.

Detecting water damage early is important.  It can mean the difference between a small DIY cleanup and an expensive cleanup where professionals are required.

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property.  If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Carpets After Water Damage

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

One of the most common types of property damage in Fairfield County is water in the basement.  Whether it originated from a burst pipe, toilet overflow, or groundwater, water always flows down, and almost always ends up in the basement. When the water ends up in a finished or carpeted basement, homeowners always want to salvage their investment.  Below, we’ll take a look at the factors that determine what course of action needs to be taken.

Category of water - Water is not always the same, depending on its origin, or what it comes into contact with.  If your carpet is wet with clean water, you have a much better chance of saving it, as opposed to the carpet being affected by a sewer backup.

Subfloor - The remediation process will look vastly different, depending on what your carpet is sitting on top of.  Concrete, wood, and padding are all types of subfloor that will determine your carpet’s salvageability. 

Time - The longer the carpet is saturated, the harder it will be to restore.  Odors and mold will begin shortly after the damage occurs, so time is of the essence.

As with any water damage to carpeted floors, do not try to remediate the damage yourself.  Without advanced tools and techniques, you will not know if there is lingering moisture that cannot be felt or seen by the naked eye. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has the ability and capacity to not only fix the initial damage, but also to repair and reconstruct the space to preloss conditions. 

It is important to contact a damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had damage to their property.  If you have any type of damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Melting Snow Can Spell Disaster

1/31/2022 (Permalink)

We finally got some snow!  Some people may be happy about it, while others may dread just shoveling their driveway.  But one thing that is true for everyone is the fact that when this snow melts, it could be worrisome to some homeowners. As we all know, snow is just water that has frozen on its way down to the ground.  And when the temperature rises enough, it will turn back into water.  So if your home is susceptible to water damage from groundwater or rain, you need to be mindful of melting snow causing some damage to your home.

As temperatures rise, keep an eye out for any of the telltale signs of water damage beginning.  These could be things like water pooling around your foundation or dripping into your attic.  If your gutters have ice in them, they will thaw slower, leading melting snow to stay on your roof or not be properly carried away from your home.

It is important to contact a water damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had water damage to their property.  If you have any type of water damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

How To Prevent Secondary Water Damage

8/30/2021 (Permalink)

When you suffer water damage at either your home or business, there are so many thoughts that go through your head.  Often, those thoughts are centered around the visible effects that the water is having on your property.  Rightfully so, these are valid concerns.  Saving furniture, flooring, and personal items is very important, both financially and sentimentally.  

But there are also invisible effects that can wreak havoc on your property, causing problems immediately, as well as weeks or months down the road.  Common secondary damage can take the forms of mold or weakening of structures inside the framework of the structure.  If the remediation response is not quick enough, moisture can cause mold spores to grow.  Drywall and wood, if exposed to enough moisture can also become compromised after some time.

It is important to contact a water damage restoration professional as soon as you notice any water damage. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has over 30 years of experience working with people who have had water damage to their property.  If you have any type of water damage, call us immediately at 203.324.1642.

Be Careful With Electricity After Water Damage

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

After having a water damage in your Norwalk home or business, there are many thoughts going through your head.  Many of these will be about fixing the damage that has happened.  But you need to keep your safety in the forefront of your mind, as there are many things to be wary of.  One potential hazard is that of electricity, and the threat it poses after a water damage.

Further Damage

There will be water where the damage occurred.  If there are any live wires that come into contact, they could short or spark.  If either of these occurs in close proximity to a flammable object or material, you could be at risk of a fire starting.

Safety

If a live electrical wire is in contact with the wire, you could be at risk of being electrocuted.  This obviously poses a danger to you and your family or coworkers.  Be extremely careful when navigating through the water at this time.

The first step is to turn off the main power until a professional can assess the damage, and verify that neither of the above scenarios is a risk.

We have the skilled technicians and specialized equipment needed for your water damage remediation needs.  That’s why SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton should be your first call. Contact us at 203.324.1642 for assistance.

Get Ready For Spring Storms

3/16/2021 (Permalink)

Spring weather is right around the corner, and spring storms are just a part of that.  Instability in the atmosphere contributes to a high rate of thunderstorms during the spring months.  Water damage due to these storms is common, so homeowners and business owners alike are looking for ways to prevent and limit the extent of the damage.

There are a number of ways you can prevent potential weather damage and prepare for severe weather before disaster strikes:

Clean out gutters and downspouts

When gutters are clogged, water can pool on the roof. This can lead to increased weight on the roof, as well as water flowing into small cracks, and into your home.  Clean your gutters of twigs and leaves to ensure proper drainage.

Check your sump pump

If your sump pump is not working properly, it may fail to pump all the necessary water away from your home or business.  This could lead to water pooling in your basement, leading to water damage.  Make sure the pump is connected correctly and working well.

Inspect the foundation

Even a small crack can let a lot of water in over time.  Check your foundation for these cracks, and seal any that you find.

We have the skilled technicians and specialized equipment needed for your storm damage remediation needs.  That’s why SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton should be your first call. Contact us at 203.324.1642 for assistance.

Water Damage In Your Ducts

2/23/2021 (Permalink)

You rely on your air ducts for many things, from air quality to temperature regulation.  When your HVAC system is working, it can cause condensation to occur. Your system likely has a drip pan where the condensation can pool or evaporate.  But when your system is working for a long time, the drip pan may overflow, or your emergency line may actually rupture.  Either of these issues will likely cause water damage that can cause both immediate and long-term problems.  If you have this happen, you should make two calls.  The first is to your HVAC company, so they can come out and fix any issue that your system has.  They will check the condensation line to ensure that it is in working order.  If there is a leak or blockage, they can fix it.

The next call you need to make is to a professional water remediation company like SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton.  We will come out to your home or business and fix any water damage that has happened.  This type of water damage is not always visible for some time, so a professional company will be able to fix any immediate damage, as well as eliminate any mold spores that have begun to form.

You should have your HVAC system inspected on a regular basis.  Even then, problems like water damage can still occur.  If this does happen to you, please reach out to us.  SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton is here to help!

How To Safely Thaw Frozen Pipes

2/18/2021 (Permalink)

A frozen pipe in your home or business can cause damage that ranges from a small pool of water to extensive flooding that ruins an entire floor. 

When a frozen pipe bursts, it can lead to massive damage.  In some cases, if you identify the issue before damage occurs, you can attempt to reverse the freezing by thawing the pipes out.

Locate the frozen pipe - If you turn a faucet on, and little to no water comes out, you know that a pipe leading there has frozen.  You can trace the pipe to find where it has frozen.  It will usually have a slight bulge in it, or have frost on the exterior.

Open the faucet - Open both taps to allow water to flow out.  This will relieve pressure, as well as help to thaw any ice buildup.

Begin to thaw the pipe - You can use a few things from around your house to warm your pipes.  Common items are hairdryers, hot towels, space heaters, and heat lamps. Do not use any open flame, as open flame can damage the pipe further, or cause a fire.  Also, start thawing from the faucet, and work your way back.  This will lessen the chance that pressure will build up behind any blockage, and any water will be able to flow out easily.

If you have a similar issue at your business or home, please call SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton today.  We can be reached for immediate assistance at 203.324.1642.

Burst Pipe Checklist

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

When temperatures get below a certain temperature, pipes that are not properly insulated may burst.  This is due to the water inside expanding as it freezes.  If expansion is drastic enough, it can rupture the pipe, and leak water into your home or business. These steps should be performed as soon as you notice a burst pipe:

Shut the water off

Immediately turn the water off for the whole building, whether a house or business.  This will prevent more water from flowing, thus preventing more damage from happening.

Let water sources empty

Next, do your best to relieve pressure in your pipes.  To do this, run your faucets and showers, and flush your toilet.  This should remove most of the water in the pipes. 

Document the damage

You will probably be filing a claim with your insurance company.  The more photos that you have of the damage, the easier the claims process should be.

Do what you can

There will be standing water pooling in areas near the burst pipe.  The less time this water has to interact with your home, the better. You can use towels to soak up water. This will stabilize the situation until professionals can arrive.  If the water appears dirty, it may have contamination.  In that case, try not to come into contact, as it may have harmful bacteria in it.

Call the professionals

SERVPRO is the industry leader in water damage restoration. SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton is available 24/7, and our centralized location ensures we can be on scene quickly.  This aids in minimizing damage in your home or business.  Give us a call at 203.324.1642.

How To Dry Cabinets After Water Damage In Your Norwalk Home

8/26/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will get your cabinets properly dried after a Norwalk water damage.

We know exactly what your Norwalk cabinets will need after water damage.

Residential cabinetry can easily be affected by water due to drainpipes sitting very close to them.  A flooding sink or dishwasher in your kitchen or bathroom can make water get caught both under and behind cabinets in those rooms.

Drying your cabinets after water damage on your property is critical. Many materials that cabinets are made from are particularly susceptible to damage. One such material is particleboard.  This material will immediately begin to break down, which means that it is almost always unsalvageable. Cabinets constructed from real wood can develop mold or begin to warp when in contact with enough water.  These may be rescued, but quick action is necessary.  If you notice water damage to your cabinets, call SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton immediately. We will respond quickly to begin the remediation process.  While we’re on our way, there are a few steps that you can take to increase the chance that your cabinets can be salvaged:

• Take items off of shelves and out of cabinets.  This will allow you to see how much damage has occurred and remove standing water.  If the structural integrity of your cabinets has started to be compromised, this will decrease the chance that the items will fall and break.

• Remove as much excess water as possible.

Remediating water-affected cabinets is not as straightforward as it may seem.  The layers of wood and drywall present can greatly increase drying time, and must be done in the proper way.  Our skilled technicians know the correct way to execute these steps, like cutting holes in the drywall to facilitate airflow behind the area.

If there is water damage in your Norwalk home or business, SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton is ready to help. Contact us 24/7 at 203.324.1642 today!

Before SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton Arrives To Your Sewage Backup

3/16/2020 (Permalink)

A sewer backup presents serious risks, whether it happens in your home or business. Health issues, mold damage, and fire risk are all things that can happen as a result of sewage.  If you have a sewer backup, call SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton immediately. Before we arrive, follow these guidelines to keep you and those around you safe and healthy.   

Don’t: 

• Spread polluted water by walking through affected areas 
• Turn on the central air or fans, as it may spread any airborne pathogens
• Use results of individual cleanliness on the off chance that they have been presented to debased zones, regardless of whether or not legitimately contacted by water 
• Try to clean up the sewage by yourself
• Handle or contact any items that may be polluted

Do: 

• Keep a safe distance between you and the sewage 
• If you do come into contact with the water, wash your hands thoroughly
• Call SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton to respond quickly and remediate the issue

If you have sewage back up in your Norwalk home or business, call SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton.  We will safely and expertly remediate the damage to avoid all the immediate and secondary issues.

Signs Of Light Water Damage In Norwalk

3/13/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage in a Norwalk home can occur from a small amount of water, not just a big flood. A small leak in your roof can lead to a small amount of water creeping in, causing the need for water damage remediation. Some water will evaporate on its own, and will not cause any damage.  That being said, you may have trouble determining at what point that you need professional help from a company like SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton. If you are on the fence, look for either one of these indicators of minor water damage, that if left untreated, could cause more serious damage.

Warped and Discolored Walls, Ceilings, or Floors

If you observe any of these in your home or business, you may have minor water damage. Surfaces like drywall or hardwood floors often change shape or color when water soaks them, and then evaporates.  If you have not had visible water, but have these conditions, you should investigate further. You may unearth minor water damage that has happened, or it currently happening.

A Surface That Is Moist When Felt

On the off chance that you discover a wall, floor, or interior roofing that is wet to the touch with no clear reason, odds are that this dampness might be caused by a small, but constant amount of water coming into contact with it.  When water is present behind any of these surfaces for too long, secondary damage like mold growth and foul odors can occur.

SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton has decades of experience remediating and restoring both water and mold damage.  If you have either heavy or light water damage, call us today.

Springtime Gutter Precautions

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

For a homeowner, there are always things that need to be done to protect your house. A few of these are especially prevalent as winter turns to spring.  In order to be properly protected, one important preventative measure is to inspect your gutters and downspouts regularly. Avoiding certain issues with your drainage system can save you time, money, and headache in the long run.

Issues to watch for include the following:

1. Standing Water
   When water accumulates in your gutters and does not drain, it provides an excellent habitat for insects and other pests to thrive.  Mosquitos especially like this setting. Inspect your gutters to ensure that they are free of debris that could cause water to back up and not drain properly.
2. Excess Weight
   Another issue that can result from debris and standing water is extra weight, causing strain on the structure of your drainage system.  Over time, the heavy gutters can pull away from the house, allowing water to seep into the home.  This can cause mold, as well as damage to shingles and siding. 
3. Damaged Shingles
   Shingles are a vital part of your overall drainage system.  Weathered or damaged shingles may become cracked, which may let rainwater into your home. Roof leaks may lead to mold damage and rotting wood.

If your home or business has water damage as a result of a faulty drainage system, call SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton.  Our trained professionals have years of experience, and know how to quickly and properly remediate water damage.

Can Your Carpeting Be Saved?

2/19/2020 (Permalink)

Whether your home suffers water damage to a finished basement, first floor, or second floor, carpeting is often affected.  Homeowners are always concerned with saving this carpeting, as it is an expensive thing to redo.

Step 1: Call the professionals at SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton as soon as you notice the damage.  In these situation, a quick response is important when it comes to saving possessions, most notably carpeting. The sooner we can start the drying process, the better chance we have at saving your belongings.

Step 2: Gather as much information as possible.  Try to identify the source of the water, whether is is from a burst pipe, groundwater, or a roof leak.  If you know, make note of how long the water has been present.  Both of these pieces of information will help the technicians plan a course of action that best suits your situation.

Step 3: Work with our professionals to decide how you would like to proceed.  Certain factors such as time, cost, and risk of secondary damage will go into your decision. You will work with our team to either save or replace the affected carpeting.

If your carpeting is affected due to water damage, a technician from SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton will assess the situation and take the best course of action for you and your home.  Our skilled crew is educated in the latest techniques to make the recovery process as easy as possible.

Types Of Secondary Damage To Watch Out For

2/6/2020 (Permalink)

When your home or business suffers water damage from a storm, burst pipe, or groundwater, there are immediate issues that must be addressed. These are such things as wet walls, soaked subfloor, and damaged possessions. Once these visible issues are remediated, if the job is not done correctly, there are a few secondary problems that can arise.

1. If a hardwood floor becomes wet or waterlogged, water seeps into the floorboards.  Even if the floor is dry to the touch, residual moisture in the wood can cause the boards to warp and shift over time.  This can be a costly repair and may require removal of precious hardwood.

2. When there is standing water, or water that is dripping down a wall, that material must be properly dried.  If it is not, the material that the drywall is made up of may begin to break down.  We use advanced technology to identify if there is moisture in or behind the wall, and replace the material if necessary.

3. The most common type of secondary damage is mold growth.  Spores grow when there is moisture present and warmer temperatures prevail.  While all visible water may be eliminated, if there is enough left, it can be the perfect conditions for mold to grow.

SERVPRO of Stamford gets the job done right the first time, which greatly reduces the risk of any of these types of secondary damages occurring.  We are available 24/7 to remediate water, fire, mold, and many other kinds of disasters.

Sump Pump To The Rescue

8/27/2019 (Permalink)

Sump Pumps Prevent Water Damage That Insurance May Not Cover

Sometimes, home insurance policies are hard to interpret. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t truly understand what is covered until it is too late. If you can get a head start on prevention, especially the prevention of water damage, you won’t even need to call your insurance agent. If rain that damages your home has first touched the ground, your insurance coverage may be voided. Thus, both floods and ground seepage due to rain may not be covered by insurance. As if nature-inspired flooding weren’t bad enough, sometimes insurance won’t cover a backed up sewer line.

What DOES Insurance Cover If It Doesn’t Cover Groundwater?

What is covered? Insurance policies use the term “sudden and internal”. If your plumbing bursts, fails, or freezes and then damages your home, your insurance should cover the damage. If your toilet, washing machine, or bathtub overflows, your insurance will probably cover that also. And if your home experiences damage resulting from a leaking roof, your insurance will cover the damage – although insurance most likely will not cover the actual roof. While rain damage or snow damage is covered, flooding is not.

What Can A Homeowner Do To Compensate For Insurance?

What is a homeowner to do with these potential uninsurable threats to their home? Water damage is no joke. Is there a way to prevent water damage in the first place? Yes! Installing a sump pump in your basement or crawl space can prevent thousands of dollars of damage due to a flooded basement. Plus, a sump pump can help prevent mold and mildew from growing in your basement. 

How Does A Sump Pump Work?

A sump pump stands in the lowest part of your basement or crawlspace, in a gravel-base hole, also known as a sump pit. When the pit fills with water, the sump pump goes to work, moving water from the pit through pipes running out of your home to a location where the water can safely drain away from the foundation of your home. A check valve at the pump end prevents water from flowing back to the sump pit.

If your Norwalk home or business suffers water damage as a result of not having a sump pump, or your sump pump malfunctioning, call SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton.

Dirt From Water Damage

2/4/2019 (Permalink)

If you have a water damage, sometimes it is not as easy as removing the water and drying everything out.  This low-income housing complex had a burst pipe on their second floor.  The water leaked down to the first floor, and carried with it a whole lot of dirt and debris.  The photo demonstrates just how much dirt the water stream actually brought with it. Our crew removed the water, dried everything out, and then washed the floors so that the customer was happy.  If you have water damage, please do not hesitate to call us.

SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Huge Water Extraction

1/31/2019 (Permalink)

This person called us with over a foot of water in their large finished basement.  We were on scene within minutes with our large water pump to extract the water.  Usually, we only need one hose to pull all the water out of any given structure.  There was so much water here that we had to use two hoses. Luis can be seen here making sure the water is flowing out properly to minimize the amount of time it took to remove all the water.  If you have water in your home or business from a storm, please call us.

SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Acting Quickly May Save Your Belongings

1/30/2019 (Permalink)

When a basement floods, everything that is sitting on the floor gets wet.  Some things may be okay, but most of your belongings will become damaged, the extent of which only gets worse the longer they stay submerged.  Many times, if the water is pumped out and extracted quickly, some items can be saved, at least to some extent.  We specialize in large-scale water extraction, and can pump thousands of gallons of water in a timely manner.  This is a photo of a recent homeowner’s basement who called us.  With our equipment, we got the water out, and began the drying process.

SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Small Pipe, Big Problems

1/28/2019 (Permalink)

It is astonishing just how much damage a little water can do. Take a look at the damage in this bedroom. The entire ceiling had to be removed and some of the walls were affected as well. You can see the size of the pipe that caused the damage.  If a pipe this size can produce that much water, imagine if the pipe had been one of the larger ones in the home.

We had to remove the ceiling and portions of the wall to begin the drying process.  Once that is done, we can bring in our fans and dehumidifiers.

SERVPRO of Norwalk/Wilton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Water Damage Response Time

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

When a water issue strikes your home or business, response time is the most important factor when containing the damage.  SERVPRO of Norwalk Wilton is extremely fast, but steps that you can take on your own before our professionals arrive can make a huge difference.

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.

SERVPRO of Norwalk Wilton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

Flood At A Car Dealership

8/2/2018 (Permalink)

Last month, the combination of a burst pipe and excess rainwater caused a local car dealership to flood. 

SERVPRO of Norwalk Wilton was called in to remediate the damage.  What was unique about this instance is that the water affected both carpeted and laminate flooring.  This presented a challenge because we needed to use multiple types of drying and dehumidifying tactics to successfully fix the issue.  We also had to do the job while not disturbing or damaging the automobile inventory.

As you can see in the photo, we were able to completely dry out the affected area.  The carpet in the office areas were left dry and odor free.

SERVPRO of Norwalk Wilton provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any-sized disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.

What is Ice Damming?

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

An ice dam is an ice build-up on the eaves of sloped roofs of heated buildings that results from melting snow under a snow pack reaching the eave and freezing there. Freezing at the eave impedes the drainage of meltwater, which adds to the ice dam and causes backup of the meltwater in a manner, which may cause water leakage into the roof and consequent damage to the building and its contents if the water leaks through the roof.

Ice dams are a common sight in the Northeast. We've handled several claims this past month stemming from ice damming. What we've found is the flatter the pitch of the roof, the easier it is for an ice dam to get a grip. Gutters at the eaves can also trap snow and ice. If snow and ice build up high enough in the gutter, it can provide a foundation for an ice dam.

Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll tell you how to prevent these dangerous ice dams.

Ice Dam Prevention

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

PREVENTING ICE DAMS

You can scrape snow from the roof whenever it falls, using a snow rake from below or a broom or plastic shovel from above. BE CAREFUL: The first method can bury you in snow, while the second can send you slipping off the roof. Hire someone who knows how to use a safety line.

You can replace your shingle roof with standing seam or other metal roof. Or you can replace the bottom three feet or so of your shingle roof with a wide metal drip edge. Whatever you do, install a water-repellent membrane under any new roofing.

NOTE: If your roof is not very steep, an ice dam can still form on metal roofing and drip edges.

DEALING WITH EXISTING ICE DAMS

1. Remove the ice dam by breaking it free in small chucks. Do NOT use an ax or other sharp tool! You’ll cut through the shingles. Instead, tap lightly with a blunt mallet. This is slow, dangerous work, so hire someone experienced at roofing. Even if you do it safely, the chunks of ice can take pieces of shingle with them.

2. Clear out gutters and downspouts. Again, this is ladder work and an easy way to damage either plastic or metal gutters and spouts.

3. Melt troughs through the ice dam with calcium chloride ice melter. Do NOT use rock salt! It will damage paint, metals, and plants beneath the eave and wherever the salty water drains.

A good trough-maker is a tube of cloth (a leg from an old pair of panty hose works well). Fill it with calcium chloride, tie off the top, and lay it vertically across the ice dam. It will slowly melt its way down through the dam, clearing a path for the underlying water to flow free.

WHAT DAMAGE DO ICE DAMS CAUSE?

When an ice dam gets big enough, melted water backs up behind it and seeps underneath the shingles. Eventually, it will drip into the insulation and down into the ceilings and exterior walls beneath the eave, ruining sheetrock and paint. If the ice dam breaks free, it can pull shingles and gutters off with it, and it will damage anything it falls on: shrubs, windowsills, cars, pets, and people. If the roof sheathing stays wet, it can form mildew and start to rot.

That's where we come into play. We can't prevent the ice damming from happening, but we can help you take care of the damages that it can cause. 

Frozen Pipe Water Damage In Norwalk Wilton

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Temperatures have fluctuated between cold and bone-chillingly cold.  When it gets very cold, homes and businesses are at higher risk of pipes freezing and ultimately bursting.

Here are a few tips to remember:

• Check around your home or business for areas where water supply lines are in unheated areas. Wrap exposed pipes with foam, insulated materials or pipe heating cables. Watch these locations on a daily basis when temperatures is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

• If you are going out of town, and you suspect that temperatures will drop, turn off the water to your home and open all the taps to drain the water system. Set your temperature no lower than 55° F.

• Unhook the water hoses from the exterior of the home and bring them inside, to maintain their life.

• Drip your faucets, to reduce the build-up of pressure in the pipes during an arctic blast weather advisory.

• Keep garage doors closed if there are water supply lines in the garage.

• Keep the thermostat set to the same temperature both during the day and at night. By suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill, but you can prevent a much costlier repair job if pipes freeze and burst

• Open cabinet doors when temperatures are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The warm air can circulate around the pipes and prevent the water from freezing.

Popular Locations of Frozen Pipes:

• Outside wall

• Under a sink

• Unheated crawlspace or basement

• Outside water spigot

• Swimming pool supply lines

• Water sprinkler lines

• Attics

• Garages

Tips on Thawing Frozen Pipes:

• If a pipe bursts before it is thawed, immediately shut off the water at the water main to prevent further damage!

• Frozen but not ruptured? If you turn on the faucet and the water doesn’t come out or comes out in a trickle, your pipes are probably frozen. You need to act quickly to thaw the frozen pipe before it bursts.

• Identify the frozen water supply pipe.

• Open a faucet supplied by the frozen line, even if you have not found the frozen spot.

• To find the blockage, follow the pipe back from the faucet to where it runs through cold areas such as an exterior wall, unheated crawl space or in some cases an unheated basement if the pipe is near an outside wall.

• Often the frozen area of the pipe will be frosted or have ice on it. If the situation is getting critical the pipe may be slightly bulged or look slightly fissured.

Frozen Pipe Behind a Wall:

• Leave the main water valve near your water meter open when thawing the pipe.

• If the frozen pipe is behind a wall or ceiling, you’ve got a challenge on your hands. You have three choices:

• Turn up the heat in the house and wait.

• Use an infrared lamp or lamps to heat the wall where you think the frozen area is located. Infrared lamps are better than regular heat lamps because the heat passes through the air without heating it, directing more energy to warming the wall and frozen pipe.

• Tear out part of the wall or ceiling to get at the frozen section of pipe. Then thaw the pipe as an exposed pipe.

If Your Pipes Burst…

• Turn off the water supply. Locate your water shut off valve and turn off the main water shut-off valve. You should find this in the basement or where the service pipe enters your home. Drain the system by turning on all your cold-water valves.

What You Can Do to Manage the Damage (until we get there):

• Water Buckets. If you notice the leak quickly you can catch dripping water in buckets.

• Make a hole in the ceiling to let water out.

• Turn off electronics/appliances

• Open Drawers, closets and cabinet doors to in enhance drying.

Water Damage Restoration in Norwalk Wilton

2/5/2018 (Permalink)

Floor after water extraction, drying, and cleaning.

This elementary school in Norwalk Wilton, CT had a pipe burst on an upper floor.  Water poured onto the floor and eventually started to flow onto the floors below, causing multiple layers of water damage in the process.  SERVPRO of Norwalk Wilton responded quickly and effectively.  As you can see in the photo, the floor was restored to its previous state, and school was resumed in a timely fashion.

There's never a convenient time for fire, water, or any other damage to strike your Stamford commercial property. Every hour spent cleaning up is an hour of lost revenue and productivity. So when the need arises for professional cleaning or emergency restoration services we have the training and expertise to respond promptly with highly trained technicians to get your property back to business. 

• Commercial Water Damage Restoration
• Commercial Fire Damage Restoration
• Commercial Mold Remediation

2-story water damage in Stamford

7/21/2017 (Permalink)

Bubbled paint from pooled water.

A pipe break caused this house to flood on he second floor. The water flowed down the walls into the first floor, damaging the walls and carpeted floor in the process.  This before picture shows the first floor ceiling with gallons of water bubbling the paint.

SERVPRO of Westport was called in to clean up the aftermath. We pulled up the damaged carpet to reveal a gorgeous hardwood floor.  We cleaned the wood floor and delighted the homeowner.  The owner was thrilled-she said "This floor never looked this good in the 10 years I've owned this house".

Saving Personal Items from Water Damage

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

One of the most common topics after a client suffers water damage, is how and what they can save from water damage.  Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this question. Every water damage is unique in some sense, so what can be saved is really on a case by case basis. However, here are some guidelines that you can use to make the best decision possible.

What Type of Water Damage?

Determining whether the water that damaged your personal belongings is clean or contaminated will be a big factor in whether or not it can be salvaged. Obviously, if you are dealing with clean water, the chances of you being able to save some of your belongings is higher.  Even though it may be possible to restore something that is damaged by contaminated water, it is more than likely not worth the health risk that it may bring.

Porous vs Non Porous Materials?

Porous materials such as fabrics, wood, and paper are very good at retaining water. This also means it increases the chance of other dangers like mold growth, and damage beyond repair. This is not always the case and if handled quickly and properly, many times these items can be saved as well. On the other hand, porous materials like marble, metal, and porcelain - among others - usually have no problem being restored. Since there is really nothing for bacteria and mold to root itself in, a simple cleaning is usually no problem.

The Amount of Time the Water Saturated?

Another factor that will come into the equation of determining what can and cannot be saved is how long the materials have been wet for. The longer an item sits in water, the deeper it can penetrate. As you can imagine, this makes it increasingly more difficult to bring it back to its normal state. The perfect example of this is wooden furniture. It takes quite a bit of time for it to really absorb and become completely water logged. If you get personal belongings out of the standing water and begin the drying process right away, you have a good chance of being able to save them.

Factor in the Replacement Cost.

Water damage restoration of personal belongings is no different than any other type of repair. You will always want to evaluate how much it is going to cost to repair something versus simply replacing it. Is the item you want to save really worth paying a professional to do work on it? Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not.

You should also take into account that paying for restoration does not guarantee your item will be returned to its original state. If that’s the case, you’ll have to replace the item anyways.

If you are unsure about whether or not one of your items could be salvaged, it is best that you get it analyzed by a professional. If you hire a water damage restoration company to handle a dry out of your property, they will be able to assist you in assessing damage to your personal belongings as well. To speak to a professional water restoration representative at SERVPRO, contact them today.  They are always there to help.

Do You Need Help With Water, Mold, or Fire Restoration? Call SERVPRO of Norwalk Wilton today!

Water Cleanup Tricks

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

A broken pipe is by far one of the greatest nightmares homeowners face. Even just a small broken kitchen pipe can quickly cause a considerable quantity of damage to your home. It is for this reason that you need to take care of water damage immediately.

Dealing with water damage requires seeking the help of a trained professional water restoration expert, such as the experts of SERVPRO. Before they get there, there are a few things you can do to assist in keeping the damages to a minimum.

Here are a few tips:

- Turn Off the Water

You might be tempted to seek out the source of the leak as your first step. This can be problematic, however, depending on the type of leak or damage. If, for instance is simply an overflowed sink, then you would just turn off the sink. However, what if a pipe that you can’t see has burst?

It’s because of reasons like these that you need to turn off the water supply as soon as possible. It is also recommended that you temporarily turn off electrical power as well. The last thing you want is for the water to mix with electrical wires!

- Accelerate the Drying Process

The next step entails doing everything in your power to get your home to dry. Start by opening windows and turning on fans. This will get air flowing through your home, which will help to start drying it and also reduce the buildup of disgusting odors.

If you have a dehumidifier, turn it on immediately. It will extract moisture from the air, thus helping accelerate the drying process. Run it for as long as possible. If you stop early, it could lead to the growing of mold and mildew.

If you don’t have a dehumidifier, then don’t worry, because the water restoration experts will bring one with them. As we said earlier, however, just make sure you contact them right away. They need to get to your home as soon as possible!

Make sure you also remove rugs and other portable carpeting and place them outside to dry. Try to wipe down furniture and personal items (books, chairs, toys) as much as possible.

- Pull Out a Wet/Dry Vacuum

Another step that we recommend taking is pulling out a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. We understand that you might not have one. If you do, use it to remove as much water as possible from carpets, upholstered furniture and/or tile and wood floors.

This process can take quite a while, but it’s important to remove as much water as possible. Also, make sure you focus more on wood surfaces than carpeted areas. Due to wood’s porous nature, it’s apt to soak up all the water, which in turn will cause it to become warped and delaminated.

Again, if you don’t have a wet/dry vacuum, don’t worry. The restoration professionals will take care of this for you. Just make sure you contact them immediately!

Things Not To Do

There are some things you should definitely NOT do after your home suffers from water damage:

- Never leave web fabrics and clothing items in place. Try to hang them.

- Also avoid leaving books, magazines and other such items on wet floors.

- Please refrain from trying to use a regular vacuum cleaner to clean up water.

- Avoid using electrical equipment and appliances a like television.

- Stay out of rooms that have a wet ceiling.

These might seem obvious, but it’s good to know. Be especially careful with wet ceilings. They could be much weaker than you think, and the last thing we want is for a roof to collapse on you!

Final Steps

The real work won’t start until the restoration company gets there. Professionals, such as SERVPRO, possess the equipment needed to do real water extraction and repair. Part of this process will involve installing certain equipment, be it professional-grade dehumidifiers and "what-not."

When this occurs, make sure you follow the directions given to you. Usually, the professionals will ask you to keep their equipment running for a while. Make sure you stick to their schedule and do not arbitrarily turn off their equipment. This could negatively affect the drying process and make things worse.

The last thing the professionals will do is give you preventative maintenance tips. It is recommended that you follow through on these steps to insure that your home and belongings return to their former state. It can make the difference between whether or not your home ever suffers unneeded water damage again!

For all of your water, fire and mold restoration needs, give the professionals at SERVPRO a call today!

Flooded basement in Norwalk

3/10/2017 (Permalink)

A water main break caused this basement in  to flood. This before picture shows the mess left behind after all water had receded.

SERVPRO of Norwalk was called in to clean up the aftermath!