How to Safely Navigate a Flood Situation | SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee

4/10/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee is here for the rescue when flooding strikes.

Water impacts our day whether we are thinking about it or not. The water flowing through our taps and pipes helps us run a smooth household while the rain flowing through your gutters on a stormy day can help nourish your lawn and gardens and give you a cozy day at home. However, water also has the ability to cause all kinds of issues when it winds up where it shouldn’t.

Flash floods and flooding situations can cause extensive damage in a short amount of time, and the warnings often don’t give you too much time to prepare. 

That’s where we come in! Our flood restoration team offers some helpful tips below on responding to a flood in your home so that you can be prepared if it should ever happen to you. 

Your Top Priorities

Your family’s safety should always be your top priority whenever a severe weather situation is forecasted. Head for home if you are out and about when the warning is issued, but be careful to avoid any roads or low-lying areas that often flood when the rain starts to come down. Once you are home, it’s time to start preparing your home.

Get your car inside the garage and tidy up your yard. Tie down anything that you don’t want to float away, like patio furniture or grills, and bring whatever loose objects you can inside your home or garage. Make sure your downspouts are secure and pointed away from your house, and then head inside to get your basement level ready.

Remove any fragile possessions or keepsakes that could be ruined by the water and consider turning off electricity in your basement for the time being as an added precaution. 

Addressing the Damage After the Storm

Floodwater can travel fast and infiltrate your home at any point during a heavy rain. There isn’t much you can do while it’s happening except stay above the water line and wait until the conditions change. 

Once the rain stops and the water stops rushing in, you can slowly assess the damage and call for help. Just be sure that you avoid walking through any water or wear sturdy boots if you must.

Before moving anything or attempting to recover some of your possessions, take as many photos as you can. Fresh images will help your insurance company process a more accurate claim and get you the money and repairs that you deserve. Then it is time to call us! Our flood restoration team can be there quickly to start restoring your home. 

Tackling Flood Damage

Our main goal when we arrive is to assess the situation and then start removing any standing water from your space. The longer water sits, the worse the damage can become. 

So we will extract all of the water while also simultaneously working on drying out your possessions. We are trained in document recovery and drying, upholstery cleaning and other cleaning techniques to help ensure your home is restored properly.

Once we have removed the water, we can get to work on your repairs. Lingering water can cause soggy floors, ruined drywall or soaked carpets, and we can handle it all! Our construction team is highly trained and will work hard to bring your home back to its pre-flood condition as soon as possible. 

Our team can help you recover from a flood faster. Call SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee right away. 

Tracking Down Where the Water Leak Is Coming From | SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee

10/2/2023 (Permalink)

Need help restoring your home or business after water damage? SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee is "Here to Help" with all your restoration and repair needs!

Storms are a common part of the summer season here in the Carleton community, and we certainly have seen some intense ones this year, thanks to all this heat and humidity in the air. While some storms remain minor and just give our grass and plants a good soaking, heavy rain accompanying severe weather can have a serious impact on our homes.

In order to track down the leak and stop it from causing widespread damage, you have to know where to look. Catching a water leak early can help you avoid more serious and costly damage down the road.

Our SERVPRO® of Carleton/Maybee team explains where to look below if you discover a puddle of water or a drip coming from your ceiling after the next storm, so read on to be ready!

Flooding and Water Damage

8/10/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding is both a common weather and household hazard that can happen at any time.  Whether a flash flood from heavy rainfall or a flooded kitchen or basement from a broken pipe, floods can be dangerous and even potentially life-threatening, and can also cause extensive property damage.  However, there are certain things you can do to prepare for floods in order to minimize the effects in both situations (flash flooding or household water losses). 

Flash flooding can occur with little to no warning, within minutes to hours of a heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying areas that are in close proximity to small bodies of water such as rivers or streams.  Homeowners insurance policies generally do not cover this type of flooding, so additional flood insurance should be purchased in areas that are prone to flash floods (https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance). Evacuation plans should also be made so that all family members know what to do and where to go in the event of a flood. 

Household water losses can lead to flooding inside the home as well.  This can be caused by many different things, such as a broken pipe, overflowed toilet, roof leak, water heater leak, drain backup or even sump pump failure.  Standard homeowners insurance policies generally cover water damages from “sudden and accidental” causes, but special coverage usually must be purchased for sump and water backup losses (https://www.forbes.com/advisor/homeowners-insurance/water-damage/).  You can check with your insurance agent to verify what type of coverages you have on your homeowners policy. 

Homeowners and renters insurance policies typically cover damages to your belongings as well.  It is always a good idea to take photos of major household appliances and other valuables in case they ever need to be included in an insurance claim.  Important documents and valuables should always be kept in waterproof containers on higher levels or shelves. 

Some other preventative measures include clearing out drains, periodically checking water valves, and using a sump pump that has a backup battery in case of a power outage (https://www.ready.gov/floods).

The most important consideration to be taken during any flood situation is safety.  Stop the source of the water intrusion if at all possible.  Do not touch any electrical equipment that is wet or in standing water.  Turning off the electricity is the best way to prevent electric shock if safe to do so.  Stay out of any areas with sagging ceilings.  Then contact us at SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee to begin the water mitigation process at (734) 299-7006.  We are here to help!

How Do I Protect My Downriver Business After a Water loss?

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee to rid your downriver business of water damage!

Pipe breaks never seem to happen in the open, at a convenient time on a Tuesday. They always seem to be overnight on a weekend or about an hour after the store closes and no one is around. 

What Exactly Is Water Mitigation?

Water mitigation means reducing the severity of a water spill as quickly as possible. SERVPRO response teams can begin removing water and restoring your tux and formal dress shop within minutes after arriving in the parking lot.

What is the First Thing Team Members Do?

Our first task is to get the water out of your shop. Our teams usually begin with large pumps, but for a smaller operation, we begin with extraction wands. These devices work exceptionally well on concrete and wood floors, as well as commercial carpets. Water removal takes several days to a week for most stores.

There is still moisture in the air and trapped in carpets though. To finish the task and bring the inside humidity to a normal level again, our technicians use a combination of exhaust fans, dehumidifiers, and air movers.

Is There Anything I Can Do When It Comes to Mitigation?

Yes, absolutely! Even with our rapid response team, SERVPRO technicians still arrive an hour or more after someone notices the problem. Owners and employees can perform these tasks:

• Shut-off the water. Every building has a cut-off valve or switch. If you can’t find it, call the Water Department immediately to do it for you.
• Open the doors and windows. This allows water to drain out of the store and increases airflow to improve the rate of evaporation. 

Both actions help prepare your business for our response team but remember safety first. If there is any risk of being inside, wait for our team leader to help assess the situation.

To schedule a service call, contact SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee today at 734-299-7006.

Water Damage Do's and Dont's

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

No one wants to come home to a flooded basement or to wake up to the sound of a broken pipe spraying water on valuable furniture and household possessions. However, the possibility of water damage occurring in your business or home is very real. Whether it is a pipe burst or a weather-related issue, it is important to arm yourself with some basic knowledge to deal with this type of emergency before it happens.

Here are a few tips to help in the event of water damage :

• First, ascertain whether it safe to stay in the house.
• Make sure there are no active electrical devices or outlets immersed in or near the water.
• Note that wet floors are slippery and “slip and fall” hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Keep in mind that wet materials can be VERY heavy.
• Have your plumber’s phone number ready and available.
• Contact your SERVPRO Professional at 734-299-7006 for complete restoration.

While waiting for your SERVPRO Professional to reach your location, here is what you CAN do:

• Shut off the water
• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air condition on for maximum drying in the Summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects and other prized possessions to a safe, dry place
• Gather loose items from floors.

What NOT to do After Flooding:

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.

Three Reasons Why Your Toilet is Leaking

7/20/2021 (Permalink)

A leaking toilet can be a major nuisance, especially when the underlying cause is unknown. If your home has a bathroom leak that goes untreated, the resulting damage can be costly. The following are three possible reasons why your toilet leaks with every flush.

1. Malfunctioning Wax Ring

A common cause of this type of leak is failure of the wax seal underneath the toilet. When working properly, the wax ring functions as a barrier between the toilet and floor flange to keep water from seeping out. When this wax seal is malfunctioning, it could be that the wax has become dry over time and no longer functions as a barrier, or that the seal was improperly installed with the toilet.

2. Broken Tank Flange

Another potential cause of a leaking toilet is a broken tank flange. If the flange is not properly installed, it can shift out of place and crack under pressure. Because your toilet is a relatively high-traffic area of your home, even a small crack in a tank flange can quickly become a cause for concern and require replacement.

3. Loose Tank

Bathroom leaks that are not pooling on the floor near the base of the toilet can sometimes be traced back to the tank itself. If your toilet is leaking from the tank, but you see no obvious cracks or damage through which water might escape, your tank might just be loose. The connection between the tank and the rest of the toilet can become loose over time and will most likely cost less to repair than to replace entirely.

A leaking toilet can be a headache to deal with on your own. Hiring the professionals at SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee can help fix existing issues and minimize costly water damage in your bathroom to make it seem "Like it never even happened."

The Truth About Sump Pump and Flood Coverage

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

As the owner of a home with a Michigan basement, and being in an industry where we see the worst case scenarios, the question has been brought up about insurance coverage in the event of a sump pump backup or failure.

It is common knowledge, that occasionally sump pumps have been known to fail causing devastation in basements. However, what many people don’t know is that their regular homeowner’s insurance does not cover this, neither does their flood insurance.

Flood insurance typically covers anything structural in the event of a flood.  In other words, if you could take your home and flip it upside down, anything that were to stay attached is covered, anything that were to fall would not be. . . so that heirloom passed down for generations may not be covered though insurance for the cost of restoration.

Don’t find yourself caught in this position; there is a solution to protect you in the event of this happening!

If you have a sump pump in your home, you may want to consider looking into the option of a sump pump rider on your insurance policy.  A sump pump rider endorsement is intended to cover both contents and structure if there is a water loss based on the failure of the unit, either by electrical loss or mechanical failure.  Based on the size of your basement and whether or not it is finished, there are different coverage limits available to fit your needs.

Remember, it is important to always discuss your coverage limits with your insurance agent before making a decision.  SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee is not an expert on insurance, but only recommends insureds check their options and verify their coverage before tragedy occurs. Adequate coverage should include not only water mitigation, but also the repairs that would be required to put your basement back to its original condition if a loss were to occur.

For any additional questions, or if you have experienced a water loss, please call SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee at (734) 299-7006.

Flooding in Michigan

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

Imagine walking down to your basement or crawl space, and discovering your belongings soaked in water. Unfortunately, for those living in Michigan this is not uncommon. Many home owners are prone to flooding, and power outages. Its important for home owners to have a sump pump to protect your home from the standing water that could destroy your home. The water can destroy the structural integrity of the home, ruin your belongings, and create and environment ideal for mold growth. 

If you ever experience sump pump failure, SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee is available to help! Our crews will complete a full inspection, and start the extraction process.  Our crews use powerful submersible pumps, truck mounted extraction systems, and industrial strength wet/ dry vacuums to quickly remove hundreds or thousands of gallons of water from your property. 

If you are in need of fast, friendly, and professional services, call SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee at 734-299-7006.

Are You Ready for Snowmelt?

3/8/2021 (Permalink)

Typically, you don’t think of floods in the middle of winter. But they do exist and happen more than you think. Snowmelt flooding happens when there is a quick change in temperature. The temperature change can cause snow to melt and could potentially flood your basement. Basement flooding during the winter is mostly caused by melting snow entering the home because of faulty gutters, cracks in foundations, and improper runoff.

Just as an example, ten inches of snow can melt into one inch of water and it is already on soil, unlike rain. Obviously, the heavier snowfall, the more snowmelt. A quick temperature change can cause a significant amount of water on the soil around your home. If the water cannot flow away from your home’s foundation, it can ultimately enter your home.

Snowmelt flooding can damage the floors, walls, furniture and personal items in your basement. It also introduces potential water damage and mold in your basement as well.

Snowmelt Safety Tips:

• Shovel snow away from your home.
• Keep snow and ice buildup off drainage areas.
• Inspect basement walls for cracks
• Check your roof for ice and snow buildup.
• Inspect your gutters and downspouts.
• Clear snow from your roof to prevent buildups.

If you experience damage in your basement from snowmelt, SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee can make it “Like it Never Even Happened”. Our services to help restore a basement after flooding include:

• Water Removal and Dehumidification
• Mold Mitigation and Remediation
• Move Outs and Contents Restoration
• Air Ducts and HVAC
• Deodorization
• Carpet and Hard Floors Cleaning

SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee is here to help! For more information on snowmelt flooding damage, call 734-299-7006.

When Water Damage is Left Untreated

7/21/2020 (Permalink)

Quick action and response after a water catastrophe is crucial. Flood waters and water catastrophes are very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and business.  The water gets absorbed into the flooring, the walls, the furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee gets there fast and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Water Damage Destruction Timeline

Within a few Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.
• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.
• Furniture finishing may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.
• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

 The First 24 Hours

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.
• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.
• Furniture begins to swell and crack.
• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.
• A musty odor appears.

 48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.
• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.
• Metal begins to rust and corrode.
• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.
• Paint begins to blister.
• Wood flooring swells and warps.
• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

 More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.
• Structural safety, mold growth, and bio-hazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for anyone so call SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee at 734-299-7006.

Dundee 24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

5/11/2018 (Permalink)

Major flooding in Dundee has covered sidewalks, outdoor stairways, and has left only the tops of landscaping visible in areas.

SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee is available 24 hours a day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of just a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage.

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help
Call Today - (734) 299-7006

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration—in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water-damaged home or business
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee

SERVPRO of Carleton/Maybee specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.