Proven Tips to Flood Damage Remediation Success in Kent

8/27/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding in your basement can cause a lot more damage than you’d think. Our certified technicians are here to help. We are standing by 24/7.

Common Issues With Flood Damage Cleanup in Kent Basements

Flood damage has the potential to occur in nearly any room in a home. Basements and crawl spaces are particularly susceptible to this type of water loss. 

The cleanup of flood damage in a Kent basement is more than just mopping up water and turning on fans to dry the premises. SERVPRO technicians are restoring as they clean to ensure the least amount of loss for the structure and contents.  

Water Removal Issues

Elements such as silt, debris, solid waste, and mud commonly appear with floodwater. The techs need to use hand tools such as rakes and shovels to get rid of the solids in the water to expose the substrate of the basement floor for further scoping and mitigation. When there is a large amount of debris mixed in the water over a full scale in the home, the techs rely on trash pumps to pull out the water and solids quickly. In cases where the water in the basement is higher than two inches in depth, submersible pumps get deployed for removal efforts. 

Treatment of Contaminated Water

For safety reasons, the SERVPRO techs use personal protection gear while cleaning up floodwater, including respirators. It is a common practice to treat the water they are working on with a disinfectant before removal to increase the protection from resident biological agents. 

Special Considerations for Basements

The technicians are extra careful during the mitigation of flood loss to a basement. When prolonged exposure to water occurs, the removal of the water inside the basement when the soil outside the basement walls has high saturation levels can lead to a collapse of the interior walls due to hydrostatic pressure. This attention to detail is why the techs survey both the interior and exterior of the home to ensure it is safe to go forward with water removal and drying of the property. 

Significant Repairs Do Not Have to Be Stressful

When the exterior or interior of a basement has flood loss, the controlled demo actions to save as much of the structure as possible may be many. The cut-out sheetrock, repairs to the exterior, including painting and installation of flooring as needed. With their general contractor license #SERVPCS911LE, the techs can offer this service to homeowners to return their homes to preloss condition. 

When flood damage is the problem in your home, call SERVPRO of Kent at (253) 850-1500. The emergency response teams are available 24/7 to make the water loss to the property, "Like it never even happened."

Removing Floodwater from Carpeting in Kent Homes

7/31/2022 (Permalink)

If your home floods don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO. Our technicians are ready to help 24/7 and make your home look “Like it never even happened”.

Protecting Flooring Can Be a Challenge for Mitigators After Flooding

Flooding is a rapidly developing situation that threatens many Kent homes every year. As storm damage restoration specialists, we have a team devoted to responding quickly to these emergencies to provide efficient water removal and cleanup solutions. When flooding occurs in a home, protecting installed elements requires immediate water removal efforts.

Carpet Extraction Solutions 

With carpeting being a typical installation in homes, it is natural that flood damage in Kent properties impacts these materials often. While there are multiple solutions for surface water concerns like pooling, including both wet vacuums and submersible pumps, eliminating trapped moisture in flooring materials becomes a more intricate process. To accomplish this, we must utilize special extraction tools in our recovery inventory, including:

• Carpet wands
• Weighted extractors
• Light wands
• Ride-on extraction units

Overcoming flood loss in your home requires multiple mitigation actions taken immediately by our experienced SERVPRO of Kent team. Let us help make flood losses “Like it never even happened,” when you call (253) 850-1500.

Efficient Flood Damage Cleaning After Kent Storms

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Flooded home in Kent? Call SERVPRO--Here to Help!

Storm Flooding Extraction and Drying with SERVPRO in Kent

It might seem apocalyptical if you have flooding issues in your Kent home after a heavy storm front rolls through the area. But normalcy can return with professional help. SERVPRO’s advice for area homeowners is not to panic. Once you make a call to our customer care team, we can mobilize our disaster response team to your door within hours to get started.

How to handle drying and flood damage in Kent depends on several factors. These are some things to remember despite the worry and trauma of having your home turned upside down:

• Some homeowners mistakenly think they can save time and money by starting flood mitigation on their own. The truth is that most people do not have a fraction of the knowledge professionals do, let alone any of the right equipment for the job,
• Calling a trusted flood restoration team like SERVPRO offers a quick solution involving proven methods and industry-leading equipment. Additionally, all of our technicians get trained following the standards of the IICRC, so you know you have the right team on the job.

Stagnant water is one of the most significant issues residents face after flooding. The longer water pools in rooms, the larger the problem and the more surfaces and contents take on damage. The most common consequences of a flood include:

• Electrical wiring exposed to water becomes a danger and risk.
• More than the flooring suffers; water infiltrates walls, furniture, and even ceilings.
• Damp, musty odors are impossible to eliminate without the help of specialized measures – this is where our Odor Control Technicians (OCT) come in.

SERVPRO of Kent is here to handle flood damage and everything else caused by the storm, including a leaking roof from storms and devastation from debris. Contact us at (253) 850-1500.

Avoid Delays When Dealing with Flooding in Kent

4/11/2022 (Permalink)

Our certified water removal team is standing 24/7 by to take your emergency call.

Quick Flood Removal Actions Make Kent Home Habitable Again

The comfort you enjoy in your home can be curtailed instantly during flooding incidents. For a homeowner in Kent, removing murky water and moisture management were the main concerns since the flooding incident also involved a torn roof leaving a significant portion of the house, including the ceiling and walls, wet. Essential steps towards achieving the desired goal were:

• Protecting contents from damages
• Removing wet materials
• Removing stagnant water
• Cleaning soiling and removing contamination
  

Calling SERVPRO to offer professional assistance in flood removal helped the Kent homeowner in many ways to restore preloss conditions ensuring a comfortable stay. Our team brought a wealth of knowledge, including how to resolve the situation faster and what goals were necessary to achieve. For example, we had to ensure moisture content in wooden household items was down to 7%-11% and the relative humidity inside the house around 30% to 60%, depending on the temperature levels. Removal or prevention of foul odors is also necessary.

Various steps are usually necessary to achieve these goals. Removing any standing water and wet materials from the structure was essential to help in moisture management. To reach wet materials such as drywall and insulation within the walls, our SERVPRO team started by making flood cuts. The cut is made a few inches above the waterline, simplifying the process of removing wet wall panels without tearing down the entire wall. It also creates better room for using water extractors and pumps for water removal.

Other moisture control steps are necessary even after removing wet unsalvageable materials and extracting standing water from the building. Foul odors and other severe issues such as mold can develop in the building due to high moisture levels. Along with using antimicrobial cleaning agents, our SERVPRO technicians also take elaborate steps to dry excess moisture. For example, venting air movers into wall spaces helped remove excess water from the cavities. We also set up a couple of dehumidifiers in different home sections, expediting drying.

With the proper response, flooding incidents are easier to manage. Call SERVPRO of Kent at (253) 850-1500 to assist. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

What Actions Need to Happen During Flooding Cleanup in Kent Homes?

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

Flooding can literally overwhelm your home. Contact SERVPRO for flooding cleanup and remediation services. We are standing by 24/7 for your call.

SERVPRO Brings Professional Equipment for the Best Outcome After Water Damage in Kent Properties

After storms bring water damage to a Kent property, the first actions by a homeowner can determine the outcome. Bringing in a professional restoration services company can tip the scale in favor of the property owner for the best resolution to the situation.

There are several steps to flooding cleanup in a Kent property that the technicians from SERVPRO routinely perform. We can reposition and relocate affected by the water within the home or off site. The techs do not rely on visuals alone but use different types of detection equipment ranging from:

• Moisture meters
• Infrared cameras
• Probes for use under flooring

A large portion of the cleanup post-flood within a home determines what building materials and furnishings need disposal and which have the potential for reuse through the professional restoration methods utilized by SERVPRO.

Before an item gets disposed of, SERVPRO technicians get the permission of either the homeowner or the adjuster. Obvious destroyed building materials like drywall are torn out. The techs document the article carefully with photos and a detailed written description confirming the water damage for use with insurance claims.

These actions take place in rapid succession as SERVPRO team members extract the water from the home. The method chosen by the techs depends on the amount of water within the structure. When standing water is the issue, the techs have access to submersible and truck-mounted pumps to clear the water out fast.

SERVPRO of Kent at (253) 850-1500 serves the local Kent area for all types and sizes of flooding cleanup. Our IICRC certified technicians are available 24/7 to come to properties and make the water damage, "Like it never even happened."

Need Help with Infectious Waste, Debris, and Flood Removal – Call SERVPRO

12/13/2021 (Permalink)

Whether flooding occurred from outside or inside causes, the water removal steps are similar. Team SERVPRO is standing by 24/7 - 365 days a year.

SERVPRO Provides Flood Removal Services for Homes in Tukwila

Major flooding can be devastating in Tukwila. Dirty floodwaters bring debris, infectious waste, mud, and silt into your home, covering everything. All of your contents are covered in a muddy mess. The food in your fridge and freezer is spoiled, and the electricity is out. We may need to replace the drywall, the vapor barrier, and insulation, along with all of your contents. It is not easy to know where to start and where to focus.

SERVPRO provides flood removal services in Tukwila and surrounding areas. We have the staff, the experience, the equipment, and the knowledge to organize and restore your home after such a devastating disaster. Every flood incident is different and must be assessed before developing a plan to begin work. Issues we consider as we start work:

• Safety of our employees and your family – infectious waste hazards
• Containment of the damage to avoid further secondary damage
• Disposal of wastewater, damaged contents, and demolition materials
• Repair, reconstruction, and restoration of your home

Once the water has been removed, we remove drywall, insulation, and vapor barriers exposed to the water. We must remove flooring materials such as carpets and underpads. In some situations, we must replace even the subfloor if it has absorbed water and lost its structural integrity. Everything remaining must be dried and disinfected before the rebuild can begin, which SERVPRO also helps with.

Using SERVPRO for flood removal and restoration saves time and reduces expenses for your insurance company and your family. Returning your family to your restored home is our priority. Our General Contractor License is #: SERVPCS911LE. We can assist you in designing and updating your kitchen and bathrooms as well.

Call SERVPRO of Kent for flood removal and cleanup services in Tukwila and nearby areas. We can help 24/7. Call (253) 850-1500.

Need Flood Damage Repairs and Rebuilding Services – Call SERVPRO

10/11/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding is extremely stressful for homeowners. Don't DIY the repairs. Call SERVPRO!

Contact SERVPRO for All of Your Flood Damage Rebuilding Needs

There are three stages to dealing with flood damage in Kent and surrounding areas. First, there is the event itself when your home is flooded, and all your contents are wet and covered in silt and contaminated materials. Next, there is the process of removing the water and mud, cleaning your contents and structure, and then drying everything. And finally, there is the process of rebuilding damaged structures, flooring, walls, and cupboards.

At SERVPRO, we can help you recover from flood damage, make repairs and rebuild your home in Kent. While we cannot stop the floodwaters, we can offer cleaning, drying, and reconstruction services to our clients to bring their homes back to their original condition, “Like it never even happened.”

Every situation is assessed by our technicians, who are on-site within 4 hours of your call. We deploy submersible pumps, wet vacuums, carpet wands, air movers, and large format desiccant dehumidifiers to dry your home quickly and mitigate the secondary damage from standing water and mold growth.

Once your home is ready for reconstruction, SERVPRO can also coordinate our in-house team of licensed residential contractors to repair, restore and rebuild your home as needed. One of the frustrations of many clients is waiting for contractors to complete rebuilding services. With SERVPRO, we seamlessly transition from cleaning and drying to rebuilding your home and property. SERVPRO also works with your insurance company to manage all billing and communication needs.

SERVPRO provides end to end full service, including:

• Emergency service water removal and drying
• Flood damage restoration and repairs
• Reconstruction of all damaged structures

Call SERVPRO of Kent for flood damage restoration in Kent and surrounding areas. We can help 24/7. Call (253) 850-1500.

How Can Lingering Storm water in a Kent Home’s Crawlspace Threaten the House?

9/9/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO techs are ready at a moment's notice for any size storm damage restoration service for your home. Call now for fast and reliable work.

Our Professionals Can Help With Water Removal in Kent Crawlspaces to Protect the Property. 

Water infiltration to areas like crawlspaces beneath homes in the area can prove destructive to the main living levels above. The fast response of our SERVPRO of Kent team can ensure that the appropriate mitigation efforts begin to prevent unnecessary destruction to the property, its contents, or its occupants. 

Removing Water from a Crawlspace 

Stormwater extraction from Kent homes and crawlspaces requires units ideal for confined spaces and tight quarters. Truck-mount extractors can move floodwater and debris to a safe disposal point with efficiency. Wet vacuums are also a potential extraction option when accessibility of larger discharge and intake hoses might prove challenging.

How Can Lingering Water Damage Impact the House

The longer water rests on the ground beneath the house, the more likely secondary effects like mold and microbial threats will exist. Moist conditions are destructive to sensitive building materials from a structural integrity standpoint as well. Efforts should be made as soon as possible to remove stormwater. 

The Benefits of Crawlspace Encapsulation

Repairs and rehabilitation are often needed when structural elements suffer prolonged exposure to standing water and moisture concerns. As crippling as saturation can be to structural supports and floor joists, ensuring repeat disasters do not happen vitally. Crawlspace encapsulation covers all surface materials and the dirt/concrete floors with thick polypropylene sheeting and manages intrusive water safely. Encapsulated spaces promote:

• Water diversion
• Mold spore containment
• Dry conditions

Your home could suffer substantial possible damage when standing water persists in areas like the crawlspace. While these necessary construction elements can keep homeowners out of the primary flood zone, water damage should get resolved as soon as possible. Our SERVPRO of Kent team is available 24/7 to help at (253) 850-1500. 

Kent, WA Flood Damage Remediation Services by SERVPRO

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

Was your home damaged by a recent storm? Contact our experienced SERVPRO storm damage remediation team. We are standing by 24/7.

Restoring Kent Residences With Superior Flood Damage Restoration Services

After an extreme heatwave, a heavy thunderstorm might feel like the perfect cure for the state of Washington. However, intense rainfall and lightning can cause problems for your home and neighborhood. Not only does flash flooding pose a risk, but old and unstable trees can quickly topple due to high-speed wind gusts.

Many scenarios can leave your home in need of professional Kent flood damage remediation services. For example, picture winds exceeding 60 mph and knocking the old oak next to your home over. Several smaller branches break a window as it falls, but luckily your roof continues to support the rest of the tree's weight. Swiftly calling SERVPRO allows our skilled technicians to get to you faster, which can help minimize damage and reduce remediation costs.

You may find yourself wondering how our techs might tackle such a situation. We've handled many cases of flood damage, and luckily we're pretty skilled at removing debris from your home. SERVPRO can start by: 

• Removing the tree with chainsaws and careful maneuvering  
• Tarping over your broken window
• Covering any breaches on your roof

Our first goal is to remove the obstruction and stop water from getting inside. Once in, we can use different advanced technological devices for the remediation. Let's say the branches impacted a bedroom. SERVPRO can use extractors, dehumidifiers, fans, and wet/dry vacuums to remove water and dry the floors afterward. Furthermore, we can remove furniture, baseboards and even make flood cuts to ensure no microbial growth occurs. Once finished, we can return your belongings to you, and move in the future. By the time we're finished, we hope to leave you feeling "Like it never even happened." 

If your home needs remediation services, call us now! Dial (253) 850-1500 to speak with SERVPRO of Kent. We are ready to help when you need it!

How Do Homeowners Know What Can Be Salvaged After a Kent Flood?

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage restoration is a specialty of SERVPRO. Let our IICRC certified techs handle all the work for you.

SERVPRO Can Guide Homeowners on What Can Be Restored After Flood Damage in Kent

Floodwaters can enter a home and rise to even second-story levels. Thankfully, SERVPRO typically sees lower water levels, but even a few inches of contaminated water can cause significant damage.

What Items Have No Recovery Potential After Being in a Flood?

When a home in Kent experiences flood damage, the structure and the content of the home are impacted, floodwaters are highly contaminated with everything from chemicals to bacteria. Highly porous materials easily absorb moisture in these situations. SERVPRO has advanced cleaning and restoration processes that help restore homes to preloss condition, but there are still things that cannot be salvaged. These include things such as:

• Carpet and padding that has been saturated 
• Loveseats and sofas with cracked or warped frames from swelling
• Food items that have come in contact with the water
• Electronics – they need to be inspected before use
• Composite flooring as a rule, laminate flooring

SERVPRO of Kent can help homeowners understand what can be salvaged and what must be disposed of properly. We clean and restore everything we can with our water damage remediation services. When storms hit your home and you have a situation such as a basement flooding, call the flood damage experts at (253) 850-1500.

What Makes SERVPRO Great at Mitigating Flood Damage in Kent?

2/27/2021 (Permalink)

Floods can be hard to fix. SERVPRO technicians are IICRC certified for any size flood damage restoration service needed.

We are Skilled at Neutralizing Microbes Responsible for Long-Term Flood Damage. 

The destruction caused by floodwaters is usually much more severe than clean water damage because of the harmful microbes these polluted waters carry. Luckily, SERVPRO is highly experienced at eliminating these microscopic threats. 

Not all Kent flood damage remediation services specialize in or are skilled at eliminating the destructive microorganisms associated with flooding. However, as professionally certified microbial remediators, our technicians have years of experience in effectively dealing with these difficult to eradicate flood-related problems. Also, just as important, they have all the most advanced equipment and techniques to do the job efficiently. Some of the many tools SERVPRO has at its disposal are:

• Professional-grade hazardous waste removal equipment
• Dehumidifiers to remove the excess moisture that microbes thrive on
• Injectidry systems that similarly dry areas behind structural elements
• Cutting edge thermal and ultra-low volume foggers that treat impacted areas with chemical agents
• A host of EPA-approved disinfectants and antifungals that can eliminate harmful flood-related microorganisms

With all that said, contact SERVPRO of Kent at (253) 850-1500 whenever you need help recovering from flood damage.

Family Law Orientation Seminar for Kent Residents

12/11/2020 (Permalink)

The Kent Municipal Courthouse gets help from SERVPRO for water damage mitigation

Low-Cost Training for Non-Represented Parties Attending Superior Court Family Law Cases

Should the need arise to attend family court for relocation, legal separation, dissolution of marriage, or parenting plan modification, there is a need to understand the procedures observed by non-represented parties.  Otherwise, it is possible to jeopardize one's interests by the time the case is concluded. Kent residents can benefit from the Family Law Orientation seminar organized by Maleng Regional Justice Center. Due to the current health restrictions, the seminar is conducted via email.

Some of the main aspects of the seminar include:

• Training materials in PDF format sent directly to the participant's email address. Alternatively, one can receive printed materials if unable to access a computer. The materials are in English
• A standard fee of $20 is charged but can be waived to $10 or $5 if you prove that you are in a dire position financially
• A certificate of completion is issued after reading the materials and following the instructions provided.

You can book the next seminar on December 18 2020, or other future dates convenient to you.

SERVPRO of Kent helps with flood removal processes to restore Kent houses to their preloss state. Call us at (253) 850-1500 whenever you need assistance.

How Does SERVPRO Clean Up Flooded Properties?

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Homeowners have to deal with many things which may include flood damage. Contact SERVPRO right away.

SERVPRO Employs Numerous Cutting Edge Tools and Innovative Procedures to Clean Up Flooded Homes in Kent.

The Seattle area, of which Kent is a part, is known for its excessive rainfalls.  This, coupled with springtime mountain snow melts, make the region prone to flooding.  When floods occur, local homeowners need help fast.  

What Technologically Advanced Equipment Does SERVPRO Use to Resolve Flood-Related Issues?

When our Kent flood cleanup technicians arrive at your home, they quickly employ various cutting edge tools to rid your residence of floodwaters and their harmful contaminants.  The following is a list of some of the gear our professionals use to remediate your flood damage:

Professional-grade extractors, wet vacs, and submersible pumps that can rapidly remove standing floodwaters from your house

Sensitive moisture sensors and meters, infrared cameras, and thermohygrometers that can precisely identify interior areas impacted by excessive moisture levels

Powerful high-velocity fans, air movers, and dehumidifiers that can effectively dry moisture-laden air and materials

Injectidry systems that can dry difficult-to-access places behind baseboards, walls, and ceilings

A wide assortment of EPA-approved disinfectants and deodorants to eliminate harmful microorganisms and neutralize foul odors

Thermal and ultra-low volume foggers that can treat flood-impacted air and materials with chemical agents

SERVPRO, with its extensive arsenal of high-tech remediation equipment, is often able to return your residence to its pre-flood condition in record time.

Flooding, particularly in the spring, is something that is not all that uncommon in our area.  It can arise without much warning and result from more than one cause.  Excessive rains, sudden large mountain snow melts, or a combination of the two, are common culprits.  However, they can also be triggered by earthquakes and tsunamis.  Whatever their cause, local homeowners should always be prepared for potential flooding events.   

If you are ever unfortunate enough to experience flooding, remember that your neighbors at SERVPRO of Kent are always here to help you.  Contact us at (253) 850-1500.

What Do Homeowners Need When Their Tukwila Home Floods from A Storm?

9/20/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding in your home can quickly get complicated to deal with. Contact SERVPRO 24/7 for professional remediation services.

Tukwila Residents Need the Experienced, Professional Restoration Provided by SERVPRO

What Are the First Actions Taken?

SERVPRO begins clean-up in Tukwila with the following:

• Spray standing water and the surrounding surfaces with an antibacterial agent
• Remove standing water with a combination of pumps and other extraction devices
• Thoroughly clean the now exposed surfaces to eliminate sources of damage and potential health threats

Why Does SERVPRO Begin by Spraying Chemicals in A Residence?

Any flood damage in Tukwila homes is a problem, but when the water comes with a storm, there is an additional issue with contaminants. These include dirt, animal waste, fertilizers, and even human waste if the storm was intense enough to backup nearby sewers.

Our technicians match anti-bacterial agents with the affected surfaces to carefully clean everything from drywall and wood floors to outlet covers and appliances. Matching the right cleaner means that we not only clean everything but also work to preserve the surfaces. If the structural property (e.g. drywall) does not absorb too much water, then technicians can leave panels in place, which eliminates the cost of replacing them.

What Happens with Personal Property?

The initial cleaning usually takes care of items with hard surfaces, such as tables and bookcases. For upholstered furniture, technicians place the items on blocks or pellets to help drain excess water. Once up, they use a cleaning agent with a brush or powered agitation device to work it into the fabric. To dry the items, they next use exhaust fans to increase air circulation and air movers to force warm air over the surface which forces out the moisture. 

To begin restoration of a home here or in Maple Valley, call SERVPRO of Kent today at (253) 850-1500. We are here to provide a safe, clean environment so local families can get their lives back to normal. 

Click here for more information about Tukwila.

Can Flooding Interfere With The Energy Efficiency of My Kent House?

7/27/2020 (Permalink)

A flooding incident can cause long-term problems such as higher power bills or discomfort.

SERVPRO Has Extensive Experience Resolving Flood Damage Related Issues in Kent Homes

If you always worry about the home maintenance expenses you are likely to incur in the future, you are not alone. Many homeowners worry about the uncertainties posed by unexpected repair bills. Even after resolving the initial damage caused by flooding, other problems can keep cropping up, later on, causing inconveniences and costing more money. For instance, certain factors from flooding can bring down the energy efficiency levels of your Kent home, leading to higher bills.

Which aspects of flood damage affect energy efficiency in Kent Homes?

    •    Damage to insulation leading to loss of R-Value
    •    Foundation shifts preventing doors and windows from sealing properly
    •    Problems with heating systems such as furnaces

As the floodwater spreads around the Kent property by wicking through materials or other processes such as evaporation and condensation, it affects various materials, including drywall and insulation. In most cases, the restoration of damage caused by floodwater involves making flood cuts a few inches above the visible water line on the walls to remove the materials soaked directly by the water. However, moisture migration might extend beyond the visible water line, thus affecting other materials.

How does moisture affect insulation?

Different types of insulation react differently to water exposure. For instance, cellulose mattes when wet, fiberglass may not change physically, while mineral wool may develop rust. Apart from the physical changes, water also affects insulation in other ways, thus diminishing its effectiveness. For instance, the resistance or R-value is temporarily or permanently lost when the insulating material accumulates moisture because water is a better conductor of heat than air.

Our SERVPRO technicians inspect walls thoroughly using penetrative and non-penetrative moisture meters to establish the true moisture spread patterns. In case you have fiberglass insulation, we can restore its full protective capabilities through drying. For other types, we might need to remove and replace all the wet insulation to ensure your property remains energy efficient.

How does a shifting foundation from flooding cause energy inefficiency?

Flooding increases the hydrostatic pressure in the soil, which pushes against the foundation of your structure. Foundation shifts can occur depending on factors such as the soil type or the time it takes for the floodwater to recede. The level of shifting differs, so in some cases, it might be pronounced while in others, it might only be slight. A slight shift can leave gaps around exterior doors and window frames, but since it is not an obvious problem, signs like cracks or sticking doors or windows may not develop, so you might not notice immediately.

Our SERVPRO technicians are aware that such shifts happen after flooding events, so we inspect all openings leading to the exterior of the house for signs of misalignment. In case we notice a problem, we can advise you immediately so that you involve a building contractor who can help fix the problem.

Does flooding cause severe damage to furnaces?

When considering the effect of flooding on energy efficiency, you should not forget the source of the heat. The heating system has several constituent parts, including:
    •    Air ducts
    •    Electronic boards
    •    The furnace

There are four prominent types of furnaces used in heating systems:
    •    Oil furnaces
    •    Natural gas furnaces
    •    Electric furnaces
    •    Propane furnaces

 When the HVAC system is exposed to floodwaters, various damages can develop, including clogging with dirt, corrosion of electronic components, damage to valves and other controls, or breaches to the refrigerant system. One this that is even more worrying is that the system may look okay from casual observation and might even run when you turn in on. However, it is crucial to have it thoroughly inspected to establish which parts may require replacement to guarantee its proper functioning or even to prevent pre-mature failure.

Since flooding situations differ, you might not be sure whether you need to involve a professional HVAC technician. Our SERVPRO crews can help you make the right decision by considering the dominant factors in the flooding incident that affects your property.  We inspect the layout of your system and then consider the depth of the floodwater that breached your property. If we establish parts of the system were submerged, we try to estimate how long they remained submerged, then we can advise you on the best course of action. If the damage caused by flooding is addressed in time, your HVAC system can continue performing optimally, allaying any fears you have about energy efficiency.

A flooding incident can cause long-term problems such as higher power bills or discomfort. SERVPRO of Kent can help resolve any issue that might trigger such an outcome, “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (253) 850-1500.

What Hazards are in My Home After Flood Damage

5/12/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at the first signs of flood damage entering your home.

Hazards in Your Kent Home After Flooding

When water enters your home from a structural breach or through natural flooding scenarios, it can be a hazardous situation for your Kent residence. Knowing these risks and what to do about them can be enough to protect those that matter most and help to protect some of your belongings and possessions in the earliest stages of flood losses as well.

Many of the hazards that can exist after flood damage in Kent homes are universal to any disaster, whether natural flooding or roof/property damage is to blame for the intruding water. Our SERVPRO professionals are often not the first individuals in a damaged home after a flood loss situation, so understanding these hazards before entering the property can keep you safe until our qualified technicians arrive to begin mitigation work.

Structural Concerns

One of the most pressing concerns for those inspecting the damage to their house is oversaturated materials like ceiling assemblies. Sagging materials are often a strong indication of overweight drywall and insulation that can collapse and injure those underneath it. Wall systems are also at risk for becoming oversaturated beyond the capabilities of drywall screws in studs. These are the areas where our team can perform controlled demolition to help with the drying process and protect other materials nearby.

Electrical Shock Hazards 

When standing water reaches outlets near the floor of your home, or electrically charged equipment still powered on, it can cause the pooling water in the area to become electrified. Unless you can be confident that no hazard exists, such as the power getting severed to the structure, do not enter standing water.

Contamination Concerns 

Natural flooding presents a real risk of contamination to materials, contents, and occupants. We have disinfection products and cleaning practices that remove these bacterial threats from structural framework remaining installed before full-scale build back begins.

We understand the urgency that you feel when your home gets flooded, but keeping yourself and your family safe should be your priority. Our SERVPRO of Kent team is standing by whenever you need us to help at (253) 850-1500.

Tips for Recovery after a Flood Damages Your Kent Residence

5/5/2020 (Permalink)

Let us guide you through the right steps before a flood takes over your Kent home.

SERVPRO cares about its Kent community, especially after a flood.

Flooding can affect many homes in Kent because of increased rain and the resulting overflow from streams and rivers. Flood damage is expensive, destructive, and can have long-term repercussions for the value of your house. After severe weather, you may have to deal with many issues, including water damage from rain and structural destruction from flying debris or strong winds.

When your residence in Kent has flood damage, you can do several things to begin the recovery process. One thing you should do is call your insurance agent if you have flood insurance. The agent can start the claims process and schedule an appointment for an insurance adjuster to visit your home. Be ready to request a partial or advance payment if needed.

You should also document the flood damage both inside and outside your home. Take many photos or videos and ensure you get detailed, close-up shots of the ruined items before removing them from your house. If the flooding destroys larger items such as flooring or carpeting, cut out small pieces and set them aside to show the adjuster. Claims adjusters usually note the direct flood damage and based on their assessment, and they provide the insured with a suggested proof of loss.

Ventilating your home after a flood is also vital. Open the windows, doors, drawers, and cabinets to ensure adequate airflow. If there is an immediate step you can take to protect your home from further damage like boarding up a window or laying a tarp, do so. You also need to start the water extraction process quickly. When a home is flooded, severe structural destruction can occur as the surrounding building materials like drywall absorb the water and weaken.

Floodwater also brings health hazards into a house as it may contain harmful microorganisms and cause mold to grow. To avoid the potential risks of coming into contact with floodwater, it is better to let SERVPRO handle the restoration process. We have portable and truck-mounted pumps that can remove standing water from your home effectively to speed up drying. Once we remove the standing water, we bring in air movers and dehumidifiers to dry out the moisture in the walls, floors, and furnishings. Drying your home thoroughly can help you avoid costly damage. To determine if a building is dry, we use moisture detection devices like:

• Moisture meters
• Moisture sensors
• Infrared cameras
• Thermo-hygrometers

Our SERVPRO crew also sanitizes the furnishings and surfaces that the floodwater touched. We use microbial detection tools to identify areas that have high concentrations of microorganisms and target them with sanitizing measures. We begin sanitizing the areas with the highest level of microbes using antimicrobial products and high-powered UV ray projectors, which can sanitize a building without using chemicals.

When flood water has entered your property, call SERVPRO of Kent at (253) 850-1500 for quick restoration. We can deal with the aftermath of the flooding incident to make it, “Like it never even happened.”

To learn more about Kent, click here.

How Can I Get Flood Water Out of My House?

4/7/2020 (Permalink)

We know more than just the basics when it comes to your Kent water damage.

Call SERVPRO Today For Flood Water Extraction Services! 

A severe storm can bring flood damage to your Kent home very suddenly. Leaving a kitchen window open is not usually a catastrophic mistake. However, intense winds can easily knock the screen out and make way for gallons upon gallons of rainwater to gush inside of your home. 

How can SERVPRO supply your Kent home with flood water extraction services? 

• Travel: Even during a storm, SERVPRO is dedicated to helping you and can send a team of water damage restoration technicians to your home. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster. 
• Technology: Here at SERVPRO, our technicians use advanced technology designed to extract the floodwater inside of your home swiftly. 
• Removal: Our techs can employ the use of devices like extractors and wet/dry vacuums to remove the water from your kitchen. We can follow up with drying devices such as flood drying mats and dehumidifiers. 
• Sanitization: Floodwaters are not always clean. To ensure that your home is clean, we can use antimicrobial cleaning agents. 

Dial (253) 850-1500 to call SERVPRO of Kent right now if your home is suffering from flood damage. We're always open and ready to help. 

Want to know more about Kent?

We Are One Call Away In Kent After A Flood

1/14/2020 (Permalink)

Using a Generator for temporary power allows us to keep the job going and we have the equipment to make this happen.

Kent Homeowners Choose SERVPRO as Their All-in-One Choice for Flood Damage Assistance

Watching groundwater enter your home and knowing that flood damage is happening is probably one of the worst feelings a homeowner can have. Fortunately, there is the potential to lessen loss by beginning cleanup efforts as fast as possible.

During the initial call, it is common for SERVPRO to advise the homeowner to avoid contact with the floodwater in Kent, especially to do any cleaning before the arrival of the techs on-site. The reason for this is because until the techs test the water for the existence of contaminants, bacteria, or sewage present in the water, it is unsafe for anyone who is not wearing personal protection equipment (PPE) to come into contact with it.

Removal of Items From the Flood Loss Area Before SERVPRO Arrives

Before doing any of these in your home, make sure it is safe to do so. The danger of slip and fall accidents on wet tile flooring can be a potential hazard. If you want to move items out of the flood loss area and can do so without coming into contact with the water, that can assist with lessening loss. If the water is up to the electrical outlets, do not enter these areas of the home and turn off the electricity at the panel. If there are heirlooms or valuables, you need to remove but cannot access, tell the technicians when they arrive, and they can get the items for you.

Professional Equipment Used For Fast Extraction

Getting the water out of the home is the first step towards restoration. SERVPRO technicians have access to a vast array of equipment, depending on the types of surfaces that need water removal. Portable pumps work well on most floor coverings, while specialized attachments such as weighted extractor heads and squeegees assist with carpet and hardwood or tiled floors. If the water is more than two inches in depth, submersible pumps allow the cleanup to move forward.

Controlled Demolition and Reconstruction

When water wicks into sheetrock, it must be cut away to halt any further flood damage. While this opens up the wall cavities for complete drying, it also requires repair to bring the home back to its pre-flood state. With their general contractor license #SERVPCS911LE, SERVPRO can assist homeowners with not only restoration services but any repairs and rebuilding needed.

SERVPRO of Kent at (253) 850-1500 is ready 24/7 to handle any size flood damage to your home. The technicians arrive quickly and clean up the water loss, so it is "Like it never even happened."

See more about Kent.

Building Pop Up Parking Garages to avoid Storm Water

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Rising Storm waters can cause damage in Parking Garages

One of the biggest issues when heavy rains cause flooding lies underneath the commercial buildings of the Pacific Northwest.  As the amount of water flowing onto city streets overwhelms the drainage system, cars parked inside parking garages begin to take on water damage.

The issue is a worldwide one and important enough that Danish architects have drawn up plans to build parking garages that rise with the water level.

Until this type of system is common practice, making sure your building's drainage system is adequate is a top priority.

If the rains do overcome the drainage system, SERVPRO is available to mitigate the water in the structure as well as restore the vehicles that received damage.

Why SERVPRO?

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Seattle, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today

When the Power is Out, the Generator should Stay Out as well

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Always place your generator Outside of the home for safety

When the lights start to flicker one's first instinct is to grab the flashlights to be ready if the power goes out.

There is a large number of homeowners and businesses that own generators that can keep the vital systems in a building running.

The generators, which run on gas, exhaust fumes very similar to your automobile.  Making sure these fumes don't come back into your home is extremely important.

Generators should be placed Outside in order to exhaust the fumes out into the open.  Even putting the generator int he garage is not safe practice, the generator should be outside of the home and venting away from any fresh air inlet.

When the power goes off and your property sustains property damage, call SERVPRO to do your repairs and mitigate the damage.

Why SERVPRO? 

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Seattle, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today

Cold weather storms can cause damages to your home

3/12/2018 (Permalink)

Trees are often the cause of property damage during a storm

Severe freezing with high winds are a recipe for downed trees which can cause property damage.  Every year the Puget Sound experiences a few storms that pass through leaving millions of dollars in property damage.

The biggest source of property damage comes by way of downed trees which fall onto the roofs of homes.

Damage to Gutters and Siding are just a couple of the types of damage a home will incur.  Broken windows and roof penetrations are two types of damage that require emergency mitigation services to cover up the opening in the structure.

When damage from the cold and wind occur SERVPRO is the choice for repairing your damaged home.

Why SERVPRO?

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Seattle, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today

When Storms or Floods hit Kent, SERVPRO is ready!

10/13/2016 (Permalink)

Our highly trained crews are ready to respond 24/7 to storm or flood damage in Kent!

SERVPRO of Kent specializes in storm and flood damage restoration.  Our crews are highly trained and we use specialized equipment to restore your property to its pre-storm condition.

Faster Response

Since we are locally owned and operated, we are able to respond quicker with the right resources, which is extremely important. A fast response lessens the damage, limits further damage, and reduces the restoration cost.

Resources to Handle Floods and Storms

When storms hit Kent, we can scale our resources to handle a large storm or flooding disaster. We can access equipment and personnel from a network of 1,650 Franchises across the country and elite Disaster Recovery Teams (Storm Flooding Restoration) that are strategically located throughout the United States.

Have Storm or Flood Damage? Call Us Today! (253)850-1500