Meter the Meter

1/13/2023 (Permalink)

Your water meter can help you identify leaks.

Did you know that your water meter can help identify hidden leaks at home?

While some plumbing leaks are obvious, others aren't and can cause extensive damage in your home. Most pipes are behind drywall, which is pleasing to the eye but not conducive to catching leaks.

These hidden issues within our pipes can be the result of many different problems, from sediment buildup to acidic water, but are more commonly the result of wear and tear due to old age. If leaks go unnoticed for an extended period of time they can lead to an unstable structure, or worse, mold.

But you can use your meter to help find hidden leaks and avoid potential damage.

Follow These Steps

1. Don't use any water for at least 20 minutes, and then check the leak indicator on your meter. If the indicator is moving - you possibly have a leak.
2. Write down the numbers from the meter and then go an additional hour without using any water in your home. Check the meter again and if the numbers have changed then it is highly likely you have a leak.
3. You can narrow down the location or your leak by shutting the water completely off and then rechecking the meter. If the indicator stopped moving once the water is off - that means the leak is happening inside your home. If it continues to move then the leak is outside.
4. Call a plumber to help uncover the exact location and fix the leak. 
5. Then, call SERVPRO of Park Cities at 214-522-3000 to help clean up any damage from the leak.

The First Sign of Damage May Not be the First Problem

10/17/2022 (Permalink)

Water can accumulate before it leaks through something.

Just because you see a sign of water damage doesn't mean the problem just started. Often, water accumulates before it leaks through something, leaving your house at risk for mold. 

Obvious signs include brown, yellow or rust colored spots on walls or ceilings. Excessive moisture can also cause paint to crack, peel or bubble.

If you see black spots, it is likely mold and you'll need a licensed specialist to take care of it. SERVPRO of Park Cities is certified to properly handle mold mediation.

Don't forget to look down either. Hardwoods that have buckled or cupped could have water trapped beneath them. Stains or discoloration on linoleum indicate prolonged water exposure.

In both cases, floors will need to be removed and sub floors dried properly before replacing the wood or linoleum.

Always check your water bill for changes as well. A sudden increase may indicate a leak somewhere inside or outside the house.

Our team of experienced professionals can help identify the source and extent of water damage in your home. We can manage remediation, restoration and reconstruction services as well. Call us for 24-hour emergency services at 214-522-3000. 

Look out for Leaks

10/17/2022 (Permalink)

Know where to look for leaks to avoid water damage.

While we don't get super cold winters here in Dallas, we should be using less water than summer months. With this in mind - check your water bill to make sure you don't see any unusual spikes According to the EPA, a typical family of 4 doesn’t use more than 12K gallons in a winter month. If your bill shows higher use – it’s probably a good idea to look for leaks.

Another way to know if you have a water leak is to watch your water meter before and after a 2 hour time period when you know you didn’t use any water. If it indicates that you did – then something is leaking somewhere.

These are the most common causes of water leaks in a residential home: 

• Dishwashers
• Washing Machines
• Hot Water Heaters
• Ice Machines
• Outdoor Faucets
• Indoor Shower Heads and Faucets

If you do find a leak, it can often be fixed by tightening a valve, cleaning a drain or replacing a washer depending on the item that is leaking. There are many tutorials that you can watch to guide you through a simple fix like one of these. If you complete the DIY leak repairs but still find water – then call SERVPRO of Park Cities to come inspect the damage. Often our technicians can diagnose where the leak originated while working on site.

If you have any concerns about potential water leaks and subsequent damage, call us at 214-522-3000. We're always here to help.

Ted's Story

1/3/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage happens fast and regular maintenance checks help prevent leaks.

Ted is a conscientious homeowner; and while he is not old, his home is. One day he noticed water near the foundation of his home - which he deduced was from the condensate drain pipe of the HVAC. After doing some research, Ted learned that constant water dripping near the foundation could produce mold and mildew in the crawl space, creating an unhealthy environment. 

So, he decided to extend the drain pipe away from the home’s foundation so that the slope of the yard would keep the water from doing any further damage. He dug a trench deep enough to keep the water in the pipe from freezing in winter making sure to keep the pipe sloped so that the water would flow freely. When the job was finished, Ted admired the steady stream of water flowing from the pipe.

The pipe extension project proved successful, and eliminated any puddles near the home's foundation.

But - Ted got busy and didn't stay on top of his DIY monthly maintenance checks - and somewhere in the process the drain pipe got clogged with dirt and sticks. 

Ted didn't notice the pipe was clogged - but he did notice the water stains on the ceiling - which prompted him to call in the professionals for help. That small clog caused big damage. 

SERVPRO of Park Cities helped Ted dry out the affected rooms and replaced the piece of ceiling that was wet as well. The experienced, highly-trained professionals deploy the latest extraction, removal, and drying technologies. Locally owned and operated, SERVPRO of Park Cities is a trusted leader in the water damage restoration industry.

For more information about water damage restoration, visit the SERVPRO of Park Cities website at https://www.SERVPROparkcities.com. To speak with a SERVPRO representative, call (214) 522-3000.

Sump’in to Talk About

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

A sump pump can help keep your crawl space from flooding.

It sure has rained a lot in Park Cities lately. All this rain means the ground is saturated and water may begin to collect. Water near the foundation of your home is never good – but the type of foundation you have will determine the best way to keep it dry during spring storms.

You always want to make sure that water drains away from your home. If your home has a concreate slab for its foundation, any standing water could cause cracks which could then lead to increased moisture and eventually structural damage. There are drainage systems and even landscape modifications that can protect your slab foundation from water damage.

On the other hand, if your home has a pier and beam foundation – or even the rare basement – then you can install a sump pump to pump out any water that collects during heavy rains.

A sump pump is a device with a basin and a pump that sucks the water through a tube and away from the house. Usually located in the lowest part of your basement or crawl space, the pump eliminates water and maintains a consistent moisture level underneath your home. Regular inspection when it’s not raining is important to make sure it doesn’t get clogged and drains properly when it does rain.

When we get a high amount of rain in a short amount of time, flooding can occur. Many people don't know it, but most homeowner's insurance policies cover water damage caused by an overflowed sink or bathtub, but not flood damage caused by storms. Another precaution is to understand what your policy does and doesn’t cover so you are informed in the event of a flood.

We handle all types of water damage at SERVPRO of Park Cities. Whether you home floods from rain, a leaky roof, burst pipes, or faulty appliances, we have the equipment needed to extract the water and thoroughly dry the affected areas to get your home feeling "Like it never even happened."

Psychrometrics = Science of Drying

11/20/2020 (Permalink)

There is a science to dealing with water damage.

At SERVPRO of Park Cities, our professionals use “psychrometrics” or the science of drying to handle water damage.

Many factors affect the drying process such as humidity, moisture movement within materials, the influence of temperature and air circulation. Wet homes and buildings can dry naturally but it helps to “speed up mother nature” to avoid any secondary damages that occur during that process.

Our tools and equipment allow us to reach hard to see spaces inside walls to accurately assess total moisture levels throughout the building. We have high powered fans to increase air circulation and remove humidity from the air. Even with professional nudging, the drying process can take several days and homeowners often have to temporarily relocate if the damage is significant.

That’s why SERVPRO has developed DryBook - a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation and updates.  Customers use the mobile application to get real-time updates on their restoration.

The bottom line? Your local SERVPRO, SERVPRO of Park Cities, Professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened."

Facts About Floods

11/6/2020 (Permalink)

Floods can happen quickly.

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA). "Approximately 75% of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding." On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the US, and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

There are many different kinds of floods that cause water damage to homes and businesses. These include:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Snow and Ice Melt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Unfortunately, even people who do not live in flood-prone areas  may become victims at some point. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. 

In Dallas, we have dry climate, clay heavy soil (slow to absorb water), and a tendency for severe storms (high amount of rainfall in a small-time frame) all of which can lead to flooding and subsequent water damage.

If catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of Park Cities professionals can help! We can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get your home or business back to normal as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO of Park Cities professionals are ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Spot the Signs of Water Damage

10/30/2020 (Permalink)

It's important to spot the signs of water damage.

"Drip, drip drip" – if you see, feel or hear this, it’s a sure sign of impending water damage. By the time a ceiling begins to actively leak, water could have been pooling in the attic making it a mold-risk. Knowing how to spot the signs early will save you money and time. Watch for these signs:

Wall Stains – Any brown, yellow or copper colored stains on walls or ceilings are a sure sign of water damage and could be the start of mold damage as well. Excessive moisture leads to peeling, cracking, or bubbling paint. If you find rust marks under a sink or on water heater, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have a current leak issue, but you will want to watch those spots or have them inspected. If you see black spots, it is likely mold and you'll need a licensed specialist to take care of it. SERVPRO of Park Cities has experience with mold testing and mediation.

Buckled Hardwoods – Floor-boards affected by water tend to have structural changes like buckling or cupping. It’s possible that they will feel spongy or soft when you step on a damaged board. These will  need to be replaced and the subfloor will need to dry as well.  

Discolored Linoleum – stains will appear after the floor has been exposed to water for a while. The linoleum will need to be removed, the sub floor will have to completely dry, and then you can replace flooring.

Odor – A musty odor can indicate both mold and a water damage. Mold can grow within 24-48 hours when provided with a source of moisture, so if you see any signs of mold in your home there is a good chance you have had a water damage.

Always check your water bill for changes as well. A sudden increase may indicate a leak somewhere inside or outside the house.

An insurance industry leader revealed that water damage accounts for $1 billion in insured losses annually for homeowners and renters, with claims averaging more than $10,000 each.

Thankfully, the team of experienced professionals at SERVPRO Park Cities can provide professional water damage cleanup, remediation, restoration and reconstruction services. Call us for 24-hour emergency services at 214-522-3000. 

Park Cities Company Restores Water Damaged Basements

8/3/2020 (Permalink)

Here to Help

SERVPRO of Park Cities provides damage restoration for basements.

Though not as common in Texas as in other states, basements and basement apartments provide wonderful amenities, increased living space, and extra income for homeowners who upgrade the living space to accommodate a renter or renters. Homes in the Dallas/Fort Worth area that do have basements are generally older.

More Not Fewer Basements

Since the early 1980s, the trend to include a basement in house design has become more prevalent. One factor in the increase in the number of basements in new housing construction is the migration of people from colder climates where basements are common to the more temperate South. A basement nearly doubles the square footage of a home at a very affordable price.

Utilities for a basement apartment are very affordable, and the basement enjoys the insulation afforded from being underground. Temperature variations are minimal in a basement apartment, making it very energy efficient and economical.

A basement also serves as a built-in storm shelter, which is an attractive feature in light of recent tornadoes. Should the neighborhood lose power, the basement will maintain a relatively stable temperature no matter what the outside ambient temperature is.

The extra expense to excavate through the surface limestone adds a layer of cost to a home, so basements are found more frequently in high-end homes. All things considered, a basement is an economical way to add usable, comfortable square footage to a home.

Legal Considerations

In some cities around the US, secondary suites, such as garage and basement apartments, are not permitted because they do not conform to the zoning or land use district in which the property is located. Basement upgrades and conversions are great DIY projects. Sometimes these projects are completed without the proper permits and inspections and do not meet the local building code. Still, with proper permitting, a basement apartment provides a strong ROI.

Health Risks Easily Resolved

Basement apartments that fail to meet proper building codes may pose a health risk to the occupants of both the basement apartment and the occupants of the home. An inspection by a certified electrician can identify any issues that need to be resolved. Adding GFCI receptacles where and if needed will prevent electrocution and eliminate circuit overloads that may potentially disrupt the lives of everyone living in the home.

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors mitigate any risks related to fires. A basement fire is dangerous because the smoke has limited avenues of escape and may fill the basement very quickly. An additional exit contributes to the overall safety of the basement.

Adequate ventilation can be achieved, starting with an air purifier. A consultation with an HVAC professional can provide simple, affordable solutions that enhance the air quality of the basement. Improving the air quality and decreasing the humidity can alleviate concerns over mold and mildew in a basement. In any case, a mold inspection will identify any issues and provide reasonable strategies to resolve any mold problems.

Another health concern may be chemicals stored in the basement that may give off unhealthy fumes. Identify all chemicals, label the containers appropriately, and discard outdated or dangerous chemicals. Find an alternate storage location for the remaining chemicals such as paints, pesticides, and toxic household cleaners.

Flammable liquids such as gasoline, diesel fuel, oil, aerosol starter fluid, and charcoal lighter fluid may present a safety hazard. Whether the basement serves as an underground bungalow or as more indoor living space for the homeowner, flammable or toxic chemicals are best stored away from the home.

Radon is often associated with a basement. A radon inspection can determine the risk level for radon. A radon mitigation specialist can offer solutions if any issues exist at all. Often, improving the ventilation will remedy or mitigate many problems at once.

Basements are attractive to insects, pests, and mice. A regular visit from a competent, environmentally-friendly pest control company will take care of unwanted guests. Include basement treatment in the overall pest control plan.

Damage Restoration Services for Basements

SERVPRO of Park Cities knows basements. Should a basement become flooded, SERVPRO provides decades of experience dealing with flooded basements. SERVPRO can come in and do a thorough clean to prepare a basement apartment for occupancy. The technicians at SERVPRO of Park Cities can mitigate any mold or mildew issues the homeowner may have in the basement. Basements are not as common in the Dallas area as in other parts of the country, but when a water damage disaster strikes a home, including the basement, trust the professionals at SERVPRO of Park Cities.

For more information about basement water damage restoration, visit the SERVPRO of Park Cities website at https://www.SERVPROparkcities.com. Contact the office by phone at (214) 522-3000.

Park Cities Flood Damage

1/31/2020 (Permalink)

Let SERVPRO use its full knowledge of the industry to help you.

When it comes to floods, almost no where in the US is immune to the damage that they can cause. Whether we are given an ample amount of time to prepare or we are suddenly hit by surprise, floods can leave behind large amounts of damage. In fact, 1 inch of flood water can leave behind $27,000 worth of damage in the average home.  Aside from the dangers to the home there are also many personal dangers. 

Flood Safety Tips:

• Stay away from floodwaters, if you come up on high waters it’s important that you turn around and find higher ground. Waters up to 6 inches moving fast enough can sweep the average person off their feet.
• Follow the same caution when it comes driving. If you cannot quickly retreat get out of the car and find higher ground. Most cars can actually be swept away by less than 2 ft of water.
• Always keep children away from water from any water damaged area. A child’s curiosity is a wonderful thing, but in the cases of things that are potentially dangerous we must do all we can to keep them safe. They are almost always unaware of the dangers that exists in contaminated waters and most of the dangers are invisible to the eye, so its best to keep them away from it all together. 

If you do ever find yourself dealing with flood and water damage you can count on your SERVPRO of Park Cities. Minor floods have the potential to cause major damage to a structure if not handled correctly. SERVPRO of Park Cities is properly equipped to take on any size disasters.Give us a call at 214-522-3000. 

Are you in danger of Water Damage from the Storm in Park Cities?

9/26/2019 (Permalink)

The rain can produce water damage you won’t know about till its too late. SERVPRO of Park Cities can provide the professional help you need.

At SERVPRO of Park Cities we realize a water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Most Dallas homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, be it from rain (currently in our Dallas forecast), a burst pipe, or any other reason - the response should be the same. Bring in a certified firm like SERVPRO of Park Cities as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, never try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. SERVPRO of Park Cities, a certified water damage restoration service, not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Our highly trained restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble. To learn more feel free to contact us at (214)-522-3000.

Professional Water Removal in your Park Cities Home.

9/10/2019 (Permalink)

Professional water removal in the first 24-48 hours is very important in preventing the risk of further damage to your Park Cities home.

The Case for Professional Water Removal in Your Park Cities Home

When an appliance or plumbing line breaks in your Park Cities home the amount of water threatening your property can be shocking. If the emergency happens when you are out of town or even away on a work day you can return to several inches to feet of standing water in the affected spaces. Facing the task of removing this amount of water with a wet household vacuum or a bucket and mop is a mistake. You need water moved out fast, and our highly-qualified crews can help.

The keys to efficient water removal in Park Cities is commercial grade equipment and specially trained technicians. Water damage moves quickly from inconvenience to significant structural component deterioration if not removed fast. Water that lingers more than 24 to 48 hours also subjects your home to the risk of secondary damage such as mold growth. You need a partner during this crisis with experienced employees and state of the art water removal and drying tools.

SERVPRO crews arrive within hours in our signature green trucks loaded with the equipment needed to remove water, detect structural moisture levels, and dry out your home. Submersible pumps and truck-mounted water extractors do quick work of suctioning out large quantities of water. If the electricity in your home is unavailable temporarily for safety reasons, we forge ahead using generators on our vehicles. 

Our crews certify as moisture measurement experts through IICRC coursework. SERVPRO also uses thermal scanning devices to locate any hidden pockets of water that need release and extraction after the water loss. Determining the levels of excess water with meters and probes in building materials and fixtures informs our drying goals. We position air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to remove residual moisture, vital to restore the function of the building materials shaping and supporting your home.  

A final step in the water removal protocol is sanitation with an EPA registered disinfectant. SERVPRO treats the affected areas to inhibit any potential mold growth and to control malodors. Our full-service water removal and damage mitigation services get your property back “Like it never even happened.”

SERVPRO of Park Cities is prepared for any water removal challenge with an industry-leading combination of skilled technicians and commercial grade equipment. Contact us at (214)-522-3000 for an immediate assessment to put this water crisis behind you.

Restoration Process For A Toilet Backup

10/31/2018 (Permalink)

Nobody wants to have to deal with a water damage in their home or business, but this is especially true when that water damage is a result of a toilet backing up. When things in the bathroom go awry it can be overwhelming to figure out what your first step should be, but have no fear, SERVPRO is here to help. The following steps describe both what you should do in this situation, and what the restoration process looks like.

• When a toilet starts to overflow, the best and first thing you can do to protect your home is to turn the water off.
• Try to avoid the contaminated wet area as much as possible to prevent sewage from being tracked into any other rooms.
• Call your insurance agent and SERVPRO to begin your restoration process as much as possible.
• Highly trained SERVPRO professionals will tear out anything that may have been contaminated by the toilet water, including flooring, drywall, and ceilings.
• Once all infected materials have been removed, our professional’s will disinfect the area. The disinfectant chosen depends on the job and the equipment needed to clean the space.
• Finally, our crew will put in dehumidifiers and fans to remove any excess water that remains.

If you experience a water damage at your home, especially those that are created by a toilet or sewage backup call SERVPRO of Park Cities anytime at 214-522-3000.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Act Fast for Water Damages

10/16/2018 (Permalink)

North Texas is expected to have an extremely wet and cold fall, and the last few days have been proving that prediction to be true. When an increase in the amount of rainfall is expected you can assume that there will also be a rise in water damages, especially when you add in possible low temperatures. Water heaters break, pipes burst, and rain causes some very unwanted flooding. If you experience a water damage in your home of business know that time is of the essence when it comes to the restoration process. Within just 24 hours mold can begin to grow, so ridding an area of moisture as soon as possible is vital in preventing further damage to your property.

1. After noticing a water damage turn off the source to the water (if applicable).
2. Call your insurance to submit a claim.
3. Call SERVPRO of Park Cities at 214-522-3000.

Acting sooner rather than later can save you time and money, so call SERVPRO of Park Cities anytime for all of your restoration needs.  

A/C Water Damages

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

With the temperatures reaching well over 100 degrees for the past week our air conditioners have been working over time in North Texas. If air conditioner units are not properly maintained then you may be at risk for a water damage, especially with the current temperatures. An air conditioning system can collect up to 10-20 gallons of water daily. If the system is not working properly, either due to a clog or a drain, the unit will produce too much water and potentially cause a water damage.  

Units are not typically in easily accessed place, so a water damage may be occurring unbeknownst to the owner. This can result in costly mold damage that can affect an entire home. Follow these tips to help maintain your unit and prevent water damages in your home:

1. Consider having a professional air conditioning repair service to clean the condensation line at least once a year or every six months if the AC system is used on a year-round basis. 
2. Make sure to change the air filter every month. By changing the air filter monthly, it gives you the opportunity to check whether there is excessive moisture collecting on the condensation line. 
3. It is important to regularly check to see that water is indeed flowing from the opening of the condensation line directly to the drain as it was designed to do, especially during periods of very high humidity.

If you experience a water damage at your home or business call SERVPRO of Park Cities at 214-522-3000.

Drying a Water Damage

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its former condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a few fans or two around the damaged area, this can actually lead to secondary damages like mold. Our SERVPRO professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any of these secondary damages. If your business suffers a water damage, we will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet material and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment. 

What exactly does it mean to help "speed up Mother Nature?" A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material-but only if the air is, indeed, drier. 

The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. 

SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals have the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to hep dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. We also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business. 

It's not only the equipment, but the technology too. SERVPRO has developed DryBook, a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation and updates on the drying process and helps ensure industry drying requirements are met. With DryBook Mobile, you have the ability to know exactly where your property is in the drying process. 

The bottom line? SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened." Call us anytime at 214-522-3000!

Are You at Risk for Flooding?

5/1/2018 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA). "Approximately 75% of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding." NOAA lists that the most common flood hazards in the United States are:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Unfortunately, even people who do not live in areas that are prone to flooding may become flood victims at some point. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the US, and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

Here in Dallas flooding events are unfortunately common, especially during this time of year. The combination of our dry climate, clay heavy soil (slow to absorb water), and a tendency for severe storms (high amount of rainfall in a small-time frame) provides the perfect recipe for flash floods. Flood insurance is a must for most people throughout our metroplex, particularly those that are close to any creeks or rivers. Follow these flood safety tips to keep you and your family safe during a flooding event.

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of Park Cities professionals can help! We can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get your home or business back to normal as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO of Park Cities professionals are ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Preparing Your Pipes

2/1/2018 (Permalink)

Pipes on an outdoor wall with additional insulation to prevent them from freezing.

Quick Tips for Preventing Frozen Pipes

Living in North Texas, we don’t have to deal with the months of freezing temperatures that are typical in the northern parts of the country; however, we unfortunately still deal with frozen pipes on a regular basis. Homes in warmer climates tend to lack the insulation that is the standard in places with frigid winter temperatures, so whenever we experience freezing weather pipes are quickly frozen if precautions have not been taken. Frozen pipes are inconvenient and problematic. Along with preventing water flow into your home, they regularly burst and cause costly damages. Be better prepared for the next arctic blast by following these frozen pipe prevention tips:

• Keep faucets dripping to relieve pressure and prevent the pipes from freezing. Particularly important over night when your plumbing system is not being used frequently and the temperature is dropping.
• Disconnect hoses on outdoor faucets and use faucet covers to prevent them from freezing.
• Seal any leaks that might be allowing cold air inside your house, especially in areas that are close to pipes.
• If you have some particularly vulnerable pipes you can use heat tape. Heat tape and heat cables are electrically powered heat sources that you wrap around pipes that are at risk for freezing. Like using any other type of heater, they will need to be monitored to ensure their safe use.
• Try to keep your house at a constant temperature all day and night. Many people turn down thermostats when they go to bed, but night time is when your pipes are most likely to freeze. Opening cabinet doors, especially at night, allows the warm air in your home to circle around pipes and reduce their risk of freezing.
• Additional insulation is one of the best choices when preparing your house for winter weather. Any pipes on outdoor walls or in areas with less insulation (i.e. attic) may need some foam or fiberglass sleeves from your local hardware store. Insulation will always be less expensive than a water damage, so the more insulation the better.

If you do experience a burst pipe this winter, call SERVPRO of Park Cities. We are a 24-hour emergency service business, and can have a professional on site within hours to help you get your home back to normal. Call us anytime at 214-522-3000.

Call the Cleanup Team that is FASTER TO ANY SIZE DISASTER

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

There's no such thing as a small disaster - especially when the water you don't see contains bacteria or can cause mold, rot, and other unseen damage. Water damage can affect the value of your property. Before you get out the mop bucket and try to clean it yourself, consider how the damage can affect your property.

SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals know how disruptive water damage can be for you business. SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals are trained and equipped to manage the drying process. By utilizing the proper equipment and moisture measuring devices, your building will be quickly and thoroughly dried to industry standards, which will help prevent secondary water damages. With rapid response time and full line of water cleanup and restoration services, SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals can help you regain control quickly, by helping to ensure your facility and its contents are properly dried, deodorized, and protected.

Before you risk further damaging the value of your facility by attempting to clean the mess yourself, call SERVPRO of Park Cities, your local water damage cleanup and restoration professionals, at 214-522-3000.

The Science of Drying

7/24/2017 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychrometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a few fans or two around the damaged area, you local SERVPRO, SERVPRO of Park Cities, professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet material and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment. 

What exactly does it mean to help "speed up Mother Nature?" A wet building  can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material-but only if the air is, indeed, drier. 

The only problem is, nature often takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out. 

SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals have the tools and equipment to help Mother Nature along, including equipment to hep dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business. 

It's not only the equipment, but the technology too. SERVPRO has developed DryBook, a proprietary tool that provides real-time documentation and updates on the drying process and helps ensure industry drying requirements are met. With DryBook Mobile, you have the ability to know exactly where your property is in the drying process. 

The bottom line? Your local SERVPRO, SERVPRO of Park Cities, Professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened."

Flooding Can Happen Anywhere

5/22/2017 (Permalink)

Call the cleanup team that is faster to any size disaster.

According to the National Weather Service (NOAA). "Approximately 75% of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding." NOAA lists the most common flood hazards in the United States are:

• Flash Flooding
• River Flooding
• Storm Surge and Coastal Inundation from Tropical and Non-Tropical Systems
• Burn Scars/Debris Flows (Caused by Wildfires)
• Ice/Debris Jams
• Snowmelt
• Dry Wash (Caused by heavy rainfall in dry areas)
• Dam Breaks/Levee Failure

Just because you haven't experienced a flood doesn't mean you won't in the future. In fact, 20% of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) were for policies in low-risk communities. On average, floods cost $3.5 billion in annual losses in the US, and commercial flood claims average more than $75,000 (NFIP).

When catastrophic water damage happens to you, SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals can help! They can help you prepare ahead of time with an Emergency Ready Profile (ERP), or respond to any size disaster to begin cleanup and restoration to get you back in business as soon as possible. 

SERVPRO of Park Cities Professionals are ready to help make it "Like it never even happened."

Water Damage: What To Do and Not Do Until Help Arrives

2/8/2017 (Permalink)

We have specialized equipment for any kind of disaster especially water damages. We will restore everything and make it "Like it never even happened."

As you all might know, SERVPRO of Park Cities is a cleanup and restoration company. We work on everything from water damages, such as a floods or water heater leaks, to biohazard cleanups, such as crime or sewage cleanups. 

We are that company you wish you never have to contact, but in case of an emergency, we are here to help. Here are a few Emergency Tips that will assist you in taking the proper action during a water damage until your SERVPRO professional arrives:

WATER DAMAGE FROM A CLEAN WATER

DO:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the water source.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building, when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electric shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by moping or blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hand furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

DON'T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shock hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possible causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TVs or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

WATER DAMAGE FROM CONTAMINATED WATER

DO:

• Avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON"T:

• Spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
• Turn on the HVAC system if there is a possiblity of spreading contaminated air.
• Use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
• Use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to the contaminated areas.

Please follow these DOs and DON"Ts to help reduce damage and increase the chances of a successful restoration. 

What do you consider Water Damage?

9/29/2016 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Park Cities, we have the right equipment and highly trained team to do the job. Call us at 214-522-3000, we will gladly help.

We are not talking about phone water damage because the whole world knows you put the phone in a bag covered in rice, the rice absorbs the moisture and your phone is almost as good as new (key word: almost). But we are talking about a large scale water loss like what comes after a flood.

Water damage can be so many things but you know if you have water damage if there is rooting of wood, growth (mold), rusting of steel, and delaminating of material such as plywood. For some folks, it is a minor water damage like a stain in the ceiling from water coming in after a rain, but for others it is a bit more catastrophic like with a flood where water comes in and there is no stopping it.

Causes

Other than a flood, there are more causes for water damage. There can be a broken dishwasher hose, or maybe a washing machine overflow. It could also be broken or leaking pipes or maybe a clogged toilet. All of these and more could be causes of water damage. I recommend checking all pipes, drains, toilets, and anything that has waterflow or access to water to avoid this loss.

But be careful when going to fix water damage on your own. There are three categories of water and one is safe for you to clean without professional help.

Categories of Water

• There is “Clean Water” which is water that comes from a broken water supply line and a tub or sink overflowing. This is safe to clean on your own.
• The second it “Grey Water” which is water that comes with some degree of chemicals and microorganisms that contaminate and can cause health problems if consumed in any way. This water can be coming from toilets overflowing, a sump pump failure and water discharge from a dishwasher or washing machine.
• The last category is called “Black Water” and this is the gross, unsanitary water that comes from sewages, rising waters from streams and rivers, and standing water. “Grey Water” if not properly cleaned up can become “Black Water.”

In sure there are other cleanup companies that can do all the work but I can tell you with certainty no one will make it look "Like it never even happened." SERVPRO of Park Cities is at your service! If you have any questions or concerns about potential water damage in your home or business, give us a call at 214-522-3000 and we will gladly come out and figure out what you need. If you need our services, we will make sure it looks "Like it never even happened."

Rain is on the way for Dallas, SERVPRO of Park Cities is ready if you need us

3/7/2016 (Permalink)

Even a little water can cause major damage if not cleaned properly, Call SERVPRO of Park Cities, 214-522-3000 to make sure

At SERVPRO of Park Cities we realize a water damage restoration service is the kind of professional that no one wants to call, but when they are needed, it is important not to delay. Most Dallas homeowners know that moisture is often the enemy, capable of penetrating into just about any space, and taking advantage of every little crack and structural problem. No matter how moisture gets into the building, be it from rain (currently in our Dallas forecast), a burst pipe, or any other reason - the response should be the same. Bring in a certified firm like SERVPRO of Park Cities as soon as possible to clean the home, dry it, and ensure there are no lingering health threats once the moisture is gone.

If water has entered the home through a contaminated source, never try to handle it on your own. Floods and sewage backflows contain a cocktail of deadly bacteria, viruses and fungi, and even momentary skin contact can leave a person seriously ill. SERVPRO of Park Cities, a certified water damage restoration service, not only has the tools to eliminate the moisture, they have the protective equipment to remain free from harm.

Our highly trained Dallas restoration technicians have a lot of technology at their disposal. These include powerful vacuums and pumping systems, high volume air movers, dehumidifiers, heat injectors, moisture meters, and a number of detergents formulated for destroying fungi and other microbial threats. While the technicians work on the building, disposing of compromised materials, and drying the rest, they will also destroy all mold and microbial colonies. This is the only way to ensure a home is safe to live, and a business safe to work in; any other cleaning method is a dangerous gamble.