Tracking Down Water Leaks With Confidence | SERVPRO of Kent

3/22/2024 (Permalink)

Are you dealing with the aftermath of home water damage? SERVPRO of Kent is here for the rescue. Call us now!

You are going about your day and walk into your utility room to grab something, only to be surprised by soaked socks and a floor full of water. Did someone simply knock over the dog’s water bowl, or is the cause something more sinister?

Discovering a puddle or a potential water leak can be really frustrating. Not only can it be tricky to track down the source, but it can also quickly lead to further issues if you don’t act fast. Knowing where to look can help you identify the source of water leaks quicker so you can stay in control.

Be an Investigator
You will have to do a little investigation around your home in order to find the source of water leaks. Water has the sneaky ability to infiltrate the smallest gaps and cracks, which can easily lead to water that gets behind your walls or under your floors. Start looking around windows, doors, skylights or any place in your home that has direct access to the outside.

Another common place for water leaks to occur is around your pipes. Water pipes are all over your home and are constantly circulating water or bringing it in and out of your house. A simple loose connection or faulty line can lead to serious water troubles. Check your pipe connections regularly and recaulk seals as necessary. 

The Threat of Appliances

We all rely heavily on our appliances to tackle the jobs we don’t want to do ourselves. After all, who has time to hand-wash laundry or do all of the dishes yourself? 

While we rely on them, appliances like dishwashers, water heaters and washing machines have the potential to leak at any time. If you notice a drip coming from the bottom of an appliance or smell the musty odor of mold, it’s time to pull the machine away from the wall to have a look.

If you do discover the leak is coming from one of your appliances, shut off power to the machine right away to turn it off and then shut the water valve to ensure water cannot keep flowing onto the floor. After that, pick up the phone and call SERVPRO of Kent!

Why a Professional Restoration Matters 

You might think you have it under control by simply mopping up the water, but unfortunately, that might not be enough. Depending on how long the water was sitting before it was discovered, it could have leaked under your floorboards or behind your walls, and that moisture can be really hard or even impossible to dry out on your own. 

Our team has the tools and proper drying equipment to make sure your entire space is dried. Our air movers and blowers will get right to work and we can use our thermal imaging cameras to track down even the smallest amount of residual moisture. When we are through, our team will address any repairs if the water compromised your home or damaged it in any way.

Water leaks can cause serious water damage in your home. Call SERVPRO of Kent to handle your entire restoration. 

Floods and Your Safety: Key Steps to Take | SERVPRO of Kent

12/22/2023 (Permalink)

Has an unexpected flood recently hit your home? SERVPRO of Kent is here to restore. Call us today!

It’s no secret that we experience a lot of rainy days here on the West Coast, and rain can be particularly troublesome if it starts to infiltrate our homes. Flood situations can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving you with a serious situation and a lot of questions.

Floods also don’t only happen when it rains! A burst water line or broken water main down the street can cause flood conditions unexpectedly. Knowing what to do before, during and after a flood can help you stay safe and in control.

Staying Safe in Any Conditions

Heeding all weather warnings is crucial for your safety, but especially when they involve flash flooding concerns. If a flood warning is issued, start getting your home ready immediately or head for home right away if you are out and about. You definitely do not want to be stranded in your car when the rain comes falling down.

Tidy up your yard by bringing children’s toys, outdoor lawn equipment and yard maintenance tools inside or into your garage. Tie down whatever cannot be moved inside, remembering that even just a few inches of fast moving water can sweep away really heavy objects.

You should also get your cars inside the garage, if you have one. Once that is all done, head inside to locate your emergency kit and weather radio. Find a spot to wait out the storm safely and stay tuned into the local weather reports.

When the Water Starts to Flow

Floods can happen quickly with huge gushes of water or they can happen slowly as water leaks down your walls or through cracks in your foundation. If water does start to get into your home, stay calm and stay above the water line.

Eventually, the water will stop rushing in and you can start to assess the situation. Move slowly around your home in the aftermath of a flood, as water can easily compromise the safety of your walls and floors. Wear sturdy boots and long pants if you must walk through standing water to get to safety.

You should also prioritize taking pictures of the damage. Fresh images following a flood is one of the best things you can do to set you up for success with your insurance company. After that, get us on the phone so we can get started on your restoration.

Restoring Your Home

Our first goal will be to secure your home to prevent any more water from getting inside, and then we get right to work to remove the standing water and lingering moisture. The longer water sits, the more dangerous it can be for your home, so we prioritize efficiency. We will also start drying out your more fragile possessions at this time.

When everything is dry and ready to be returned into your home, we will work on your repairs. Floodwater can ruin walls, floors and even ceilings, and it can cause serious structural damage.

The good news is that no damage is too large or too destructive for us to confidently handle. Call us as soon as you suffer flood damage so we can take care of you.

Recovering after a flood is possible with SERVPRO of Kent. Contact us 24/7 for quick flood restoration assistance.

The Chilling Consequences: How Cold Weather Can Lead to Water Damage

10/26/2023 (Permalink)

Winter's icy grip can lead to a variety of water-related problems.

While cold weather may bring cozy nights by the fire and picturesque snow-covered landscapes, it can also present a hidden threat to your home – water damage. Winter's icy grip can lead to a variety of water-related problems that, if left unaddressed, can result in costly and inconvenient damage to your property. In this blog, we'll explore how cold weather can lead to water damage and what you can do to prevent it.

1. Frozen Pipes

One of the most common culprits of cold weather-related water damage is frozen pipes. When the temperature drops significantly, water inside your pipes can freeze. As water freezes, it expands, which can cause pipes to crack or burst. When the ice thaws, the water starts to leak, leading to potential flooding and extensive damage. To prevent frozen pipes:

• Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas.
• Let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving.
• Keep your home's temperature consistently warm, even when you're away.

2. Ice Dams on Roofs

Ice dams are another concern during cold weather, particularly in regions with frequent snowfall. These occur when snow on your roof melts, then refreezes at the eaves, blocking the proper drainage of water. As more melted snow accumulates behind the dam, it can seep under roof shingles, causing water damage to your attic and interior spaces. To prevent ice dams:

• Ensure your attic is well-insulated and ventilated to maintain a uniform roof temperature.
• Safely remove snow from your roof using a roof rake.

3. Condensation

Cold weather can lead to indoor humidity, which, in turn, can result in condensation on windows and walls. Over time, this condensation can lead to water damage and mold growth. To minimize condensation:

• Use a dehumidifier to maintain appropriate indoor humidity levels.
• Seal any gaps around doors and windows to reduce cold air infiltration.
• Make sure your home is adequately ventilated to circulate indoor air.

4. Snowmelt

While it may seem harmless, snowmelt can be a source of water damage if not managed properly. As the temperature rises, accumulated snow and ice can turn into a significant amount of water that can infiltrate your home through foundation cracks, poorly sealed windows, or damaged roof areas. To prevent snowmelt-related water damage:

• Keep your gutters and downspouts clean and free from ice and snow.
• Ensure proper grading around your home to direct snowmelt away from the foundation.
• Seal any cracks or gaps in your home's exterior to prevent water infiltration.

Cold weather can bring about a range of water-related challenges that, if not addressed, can lead to significant water damage. Taking proactive measures to prevent frozen pipes, ice dams, condensation, and snowmelt infiltration can help safeguard your home from these winter woes. In the event that you do experience water damage, it's crucial to act quickly and seek professional help to mitigate and restore your property. Remember, with the right precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of winter without falling victim to its water-related pitfalls.

Fall is Here: 3 Essential Home Preparations to Prevent Water Damage in Kent

9/29/2023 (Permalink)

Fall is a beautiful season in Kent, but it also comes with its own set of challenges for homeowners.

As the vibrant colors of autumn paint the landscape and cooler temperatures settle in, fall is officially upon us in Kent. It's a season filled with cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, and crisp air. However, it's also a time when homeowners need to be proactive in safeguarding their homes against potential water damage. From leaves clogging gutters to heavy rains, fall can bring about unique challenges for homeowners. Let's explore three crucial steps that Kent homeowners can take to prepare their homes and prevent water damage. And, if the unexpected does occur, SERVPRO is here to provide professional water damage restoration and mitigation services.

Clean and Inspect Gutters and Downspouts

One of the most important tasks in preparing your home for fall is cleaning and inspecting your gutters and downspouts. Fallen leaves, twigs, and debris can quickly accumulate in your gutters, causing blockages that prevent proper drainage. When heavy rains hit, clogged gutters can lead to overflowing water, damaging your roof, siding, and even your foundation. To prevent this, take the time to:

• Remove debris from gutters and downspouts.
• Inspect them for any signs of damage or leaks.
• Ensure that downspouts direct water away from your home's foundation.
• Regular maintenance of your gutters and downspouts can help keep water flowing freely and prevent costly water damage repairs.

Check for Roof Leaks and Damaged Shingles

The roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements, and fall is an ideal time to inspect it for any vulnerabilities. Look for missing or damaged shingles, as well as signs of water stains on your ceilings or walls inside your home. If you spot any issues, it's crucial to address them promptly to prevent water from infiltrating your home. Roof repairs are often more cost-effective when caught early, and they can save you from more extensive damage down the road.

Seal Windows and Doors

Leaky windows and doors can let cold air and rainwater into your home, leading to increased energy bills and potential water damage. Check the seals around your windows and doors for cracks or gaps. If you find any, apply weatherstripping or caulking to seal them properly. Properly sealed windows and doors not only enhance your home's energy efficiency but also protect it from moisture intrusion during fall rains.

Fall is a beautiful season in Kent, but it also comes with its own set of challenges for homeowners. By taking these proactive steps to prevent water damage, you can enjoy the season with peace of mind. However, if water damage does occur despite your preparations, SERVPRO is here to help. Our expert team offers professional water damage restoration and mitigation services to get your home back to its pre-damaged condition swiftly and efficiently. Contact SERVPRO today for prompt assistance with water damage restoration and peace of mind throughout the fall season.

Mitigating and Restoring Kent Water Damage Efficiently

10/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the training and equipment you need after water damage in your Kent home.

We Restore Many Different Water Damage Events

Our position in King County helps us serve hundreds of thousands of residents and countless businesses contending with disasters of all types. The frequency and usual severity of water disasters like burst pipes or leaks required our water restoration division to continue growing to accommodate our recovery team's standard callout. Our roster can help with all needed efforts, including:

• Surface water removal
• Structural drying
• Humidity management
• Needed repairs

With these necessary actions needing to be completed after Kent water damage, our professionals must stay ready to respond. Disasters do not wait for convenient times to happen, so you will not wait for your property's restoration and mitigation response. We have skilled WRT-Certified technicians and licensed contractors ready to respond.

Many Types of Water Damage in Kent

In a city of more than 130,000 people, our SERVPRO team has seen many types of water emergencies and threats to structures. With each job, our expertise grows, and we solidify our position as a preferred vendor for insurance work and out-of-pocket restoration services after:

• Freezing Pipes
• Plumbing Leaks
• Accidents and Spills
• Appliance Damage
• Flooding

Mitigation Solutions for Water Damage 

Mitigation involves several practices and actions for our professionals, but few have the urgency and impact as water removal services. Standing water is a hazard in many regards, so we utilize a combination of pumps and vacuums to manage pooling in the house and begin extracting trapped moisture in materials like wood and carpeted flooring.

The Science of Effective Drying 

Drying is the most critical component of the restoration process, making it the procedure requiring the greatest array of our equipment and instruments to complete. Each of these tools regulates one of the primary principles of drying. Achieving a balance of these factors provides the most efficient production:

• Temperature  - This principle measures the warmth of the drying zone and affected materials. In many cases, direct heat applied to moist materials can expedite the drying process and chemical reactions for surface cleaning.
• Airflow - Air movement is another major contributor to efficient drying in the household. We use several air mover units to promote evaporation by directing blasts of warm, dry air at wet surfaces.
• Humidity - Productive evaporation increases humidity. Depending on the house's temperature, the air can only hold so many moisture grains before fully saturated. We can reduce the environmental moisture content by dehumidification units to continue the drying cycle.

Ensuring Drying is Complete 

Property owners can benefit from the peace of mind that the drying process is complete. When only superficial drying occurs, as is common with DIY measures, damp pockets and hidden moisture caches can impact building materials and produce appropriate conditions to facilitate mold development. We check our evaporation and water removal processes with sensitive sensors and moisture detection devices to document where further action might be necessary.

Are Water Damage Repairs Needed?

Reconstruction and repairs often coincide with the impact of water disasters on your home or business. From the earliest mitigation actions of removing sagging materials and repairing busted plumbing to newly installed wall systems and carpeted floors after demolition, we can help. Our general contractor license makes us qualified to complete most build-back actions as restoration and recovery continue.

However Kent water damage impacts your life; professional cleanup and drying can help you get back to everyday living quicker. Our SERVPRO of Kent team keeps service vehicles stocked with mitigation and restoration equipment to get water recovery projects underway. Call us at (253) 850-1500.

Explaining the Need for Partial Demolition During Kent Water Removal

8/27/2022 (Permalink)

If you find water damage in your home, contact SERVPRO immediately. Our trained professionals will formulate a remediation plan for your home.

SERVPRO Teams Make The Necessary Changes To Avoid Further Loss Of Your Property

A water loss in your Kent home already creates chaos, so understandably homeowners are concerned when restoration technicians recommend strategies involving removing or altering structural components. Clear communication with our customers about the need for controlled demolition is vital. Our full-service restoration company streamlines not only the water extraction and structural drying but also any repairs or rebuilding needed afterward.

Water Migrates 

After a plumbing leak, tub overflow, or appliance mishap, fast water removal in your Kent home avoids further deterioration of building materials and secondary harm like mold growth. Water does not remain static once it escapes from a pipe, hose, or container. It flows, seeps, and percolates into building cavities and materials and is absorbed by porous ones. 

Detection Leads to Carefully Planned Demolition

SERVPRO technicians master training in the use of moisture meters and detectors, following the path of the water. We also use thermal imaging, employing expert reading of temperature fluctuations, to locate pooled water. Often the liquid and absorbed water are entirely encapsulated by walls, woodwork, and flooring. Leaving it to drain or dry out over time is not best practice. If we do not follow its path and make arrangements to extract liquids and dry out wet structural components, expect a continuous weakening of materials, lingering odors, and great expense to remedy the situation. To remove the water, we try a range of strategies:

• Removal of baseboards to cut holes near the bottom of wall cavities
• Flood cuts, made several inches above the waterline when drywall is saturated
• Loosening of paneling or strips of hardwood flooring 
• Drilled holes in masonry mortar joints 

Next Steps

These remedies facilitate the release of liquids and permit the infusion of warm, dry air. SERVPRO technicians use a system that can switch between negative air pressure to suction out water and positive air pressure to force warm, dry air into cavities through the smaller holes to accelerate evaporation. Larger openings, like the flood cuts, permit us to position air movers and dehumidifiers closer, encouraging evaporation and then capture of the water vapor. Floors respond to suction-driven mats or airflow under planks for thorough drying.

Streamlined Rebuilding 

Our reconstruction division lightens the load on SERVPRO customers. Rather than hiring another contractor to address the holes and sawn-off drywall, our contractor’s license permits employees to repair, reinstall, and rebuild. 

Engage SERVPRO of Kent for wrap-around restoration and rehabbing services beginning with water removal. Call us at (253) 850-1500 to schedule an assessment.

Become Familiar with Effective Water Damage Remediation in Kent

6/24/2022 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO fast to mitigate the water damage in your Kent home. We can even patch the ceiling.

Extracting Water from a Kent Residence

Did you know that 37% of homeowners claim to have suffered losses from water damage? Each year, millions of people are affected by water-related disasters. Even small pipe leaks can quietly pour hundreds of gallons of water into the home, compromising structural materials and creating environments that host mold and other microbes.

If your Kent residence needs water damage mitigation fast, the IICRC-certified technicians at SERVPRO are available to assist you 24 hours a day. This team is dedicated to bringing homeowners thorough cleaning and restoration to help them save time and money. Technicians coordinate with property owners and insurance adjusters to ensure that every step of the cleanup process, including any necessary disposal or demolition, is done with the consent of all involved parties.

Pipe Leak in Your Home

• Stains on the ceiling. If you notice dark stains or sagging in your ceiling, the internal pipes may have seeped enough water to damage beams.
• Damaged flooring. Water can harm flooring, including buckling, staining, cracking, warping, and tiles loosening. If you feel persistent wet or soft spots in the floor when you step on it, chances are you have water damage that needs mitigation. Water can erode subflooring and eventually collapse structures without professional mitigation.  
• Rusty fixtures. If your pipes are discolored, stained, dimpled, or flaking, corrosion is a likely culprit. Rusty pipes, fuse boxes, and other appliances indicate water damage in or near walls. 
• Discoloration of paint or wallpaper. When exposed to water over time, paint and wallpaper start to peel, bubble, crack, and warp. Worse still, the drywall and wood behind it are absorbent and break down, meaning that if you see damage on the surface, there is likely even more behind the walls.
• Odors. If you notice a musty or mildewy smell, there is water damage nearby. 

How SERVPRO Can Help

If you have a saggy, water-saturated ceiling, SERVPRO technicians have various tools available to address the issue. Technicians can evaluate the extent of damage behind surfaces with infrared cameras. After evaluating moisture levels, technicians can demolish damaged ceiling portions and remove compromised materials. 

Once unsafe materials have been extracted from the affected area, drying with air movers and dehumidifiers can commence. If odors persist, technicians can implement ultra-low volume foggers to dispense water- or solvent-based deodorant solutions that eliminate odor-causing particles.

SERVPRO of Kent wants to ensure that your home looks "Like it never even happened." Call (253) 850-1500 for disaster cleanup that can start within hours of your initial contact.

Water Damage in Tukwila Kitchen Gets Demo and Rebuild

5/29/2022 (Permalink)

Burst pipes can quickly dump a large amount of water on your kitchen floor. React fast with a call to our SERVPRO team for effective water removal.

Tukwila if you endure water damage to your kitchen, let us help save your kitchen.

When a pipe bursts under a sink in a kitchen, the amount of water that spills can do significant damage to the flooring and walls in a short time. Mops and rags only absorb water on the surface and do nothing about any migration that happened into the subfloor or behind baseboards. 

SERVPRO technicians received a call to assist a Tukwila home with water damage cleanup in the kitchen. The water pooled in the breakfast area and required extraction using portable pumps. 

Tracing the Water Migration Path

The techs use various types of detection equipment to determine moisture and humidity levels behind walls and under floors. This action ensures that no water gets left behind to cause additional issues. 

Removal of Damaged Materials

Hardwood flooring has recovery potential through drying, if the mitigation begins quickly enough. The composite wood floor in the kitchen deteriorated quickly after extended exposure to the water. IICRC-certified technicians removed the flooring as it had no restoration prospects and prepped the subfloor for drying. The sheetrock wicked significant amounts of water and required removal down to the studs to open the wall cavity for better airflow.

Complete Drying is the Key 

The techs monitor the drying process carefully to ensure that the indoor humidity levels fall below the range for mold spore germination, and it also assists in avoiding musty odors. Once the structure verifies as dry, they clean the surfaces with their proprietary disinfectants, so there is a clean slate to build on.

Restoration and Reconstruction 

With their general contractor license #SERVPCS911LE, SERVPRO offers a one-stop recovery and rebuilding assistance. This takes the hassle out of finding a contractor and waiting for the insurance carrier to approve the services. The technicians work closely with the insurance company, so the process from beginning to end is never out of the scope of coverage. The technicians handle everything such as installing flooring, painting, and repairs as needed. 

SERVPRO of Kent at (253) 850-1500 can clean up water damage and restore your home with any reconstruction or repairs needed to make the loss "Like it never even happened."

We Are Ready for Any Size Disaster in Kent

4/4/2022 (Permalink)

We are equipped with water extraction units to remove moisture before we set drying equipment out.

Get 24/7 Service When Your Kent Home Suffers Water Damage

In the continental United States, water damage claims are second only to wind and hail regarding insurance claim filings. While wind and hail can cause visible damages to exteriors that require mitigation, water damage can compromise structures without thorough professional care.

If your Kent residence has experienced water damage due to a pipe leak or other disaster, SERVPRO technicians are ready to assist you. This IICRC-certified crew is available 24/7 to combat water-related disasters and restore homes to their preloss condition. If your living space requires renovations after a disaster, SERVPRO possesses a general contracting license (#SERVPCS911LE) and can address your needs quickly.

What to Do When You Spot Water Damage

If you have identified water damage in your home, consider these preventive measures that can minimize repair and renovation costs after a disaster:

• Shut off water for the affected area.
• Do not use electronics in a water-damaged area and shut off power for these parts of your home to minimize risk.
• Use towels, mops, and other clean items to soak up loose water.
• Use fans and maximize ventilation to facilitate drying as much as possible. 
• Call a professional disaster mitigation team immediately to restore your home and address potential damage behind or underneath walls, ceilings, and floors. 

SERVPRO's Scientific Approach

SERVPRO uses various moisture measurement tools to address multiple materials and plot out a course of action for extraction, drying, and disinfection with EPA-registered cleaners. These tools vary from moisture sensors that evaluate the moisture levels of soft materials to penetrating and non-penetrating moisture meters to monitor layers of material during the drying process. Technicians also use thermo-hygrometers, which assess both temperature and humidity. 

The goal during drying is to restore your structures and possessions to moisture levels that would be normal for them. What could be considered "dry" for carpeting or drywall is not necessarily the same for hardwood floors or leather upholstery. Technicians use a thorough approach to moisture analysis during cleanup. This process includes testing the same spots on surfaces several times with various measurement tools to ensure accuracy.

SERVPRO of Kent is always available to ensure that your home looks "Like it never even happened." Call (253) 850-1500 today if you need a disaster mitigation crew fast.