Recent Water Damage Posts

Protect those Pipes this Fall Season!

10/5/2022 (Permalink)

Busted Water Pipe Protect your pipes from experiencing a freeze resulting in water damage

It was not too long ago when the State of Georgia experienced a historic freeze event that left people stranded in their commute home from work. Remember when Chipper Jones took to his faithful four-wheeler to rescue then-Atlanta slugger, Freddie Freeman?  It was certainly one of those memorable, heart-warming stories in the national news. Little did we know at the time, the catastrophe of being unprepared as a state to navigate snow and ice-laden roadways would be just the beginning. . . . It was merely the prequel to what would be an historic frozen pipe event that caught us all sleeping on being prepared!

According to the Farmers’ Almanac, this coming (2022-2023) Winter in Georgia will be “shivery, wet, and slushy.” It is expected to be colder in the Southeast, in general, this Winter, including the Peach State! If you are unfamiliar with how the Farmers’ Almanac works, join the crowd! However, the formulas utilize various factors, such as the moon, tidal action, sunspot activity, and even planetary movement. Elon, you there? The almanac winter forecast for Georgia calls for a solid mix of precipitation, with icy sleet and snow, to be expected.

If you are betting with the farmers of Georgia to have more of a grasp on the coming winter weather than your neighbor, there is never a better time to earn those brownie points from the wife by protecting your pipes! 3 simple steps for members of your household, or facility management team, to proactively decrease the risk of pipes bursting due to freezing temperatures. Insulate your pipes. Pipes in and around your home or commercial building that are exposed are most susceptible to freezing. If you are the DIY type and feel like you could tackle this at your home, here’s a solid guide to knocking out this project this Fall so that you’re prepared for the cold winter. Let ‘em drip. Maintaining a very light, but consistent drip from your faucets really does go a long way in preventing frozen pipes. Turn up the heat. Don’t ignore the weatherman. When a cold snap comes, cranking up your thermostat protects your pipes. For the projected coldest nights, leaving your thermostat up overnight, or if you know you will be away from your home during a cold snap, set the timer to come on for a couple hours in the morning and in the evening to keep things warm.

At the end of the day, it is important to learn from our recent history by taking proactive steps to limiting the risk of another freeze destroying your home. While insulating your pipes, letting your faucets drip lightly through the night, and maintaining a consistent, warmer temperature in your home are great ways to decrease the risk of frozen pipes (and worse—the burst!). There are several more ways in which you can proactively get out ahead of the coming freezing temperatures, all the while enjoying the Fall weather! We recommend speaking to a local professional on more ways you can go about protecting your pipes.  

Water Damage can Turn into A Mold Nightmare in No Time

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

We cannot tell you how many calls we get about homeowners coming back from vacation to find a mess due to HVAC system malfunction, busted pipes, flooded basements due to heavy rains, etc.

If left untreated, water damage can turn into a mold problem in 24 to 36 hours, especially during hot and humid days. Mold will not go away on its own, and it will keep expanding unless it is removed. You need a professional company to handle these types of disasters since mold can be dangerous for your health and produce allergens and irritants.

At SERVPRO of Decatur, we have our own Mold Division that can help you get your home to its preloss condition. Our highly trained technicians will have a plan of action to remediate the damage and minimize the effects on your family’s health.

If you need our help, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

Building Services offered by SERVPRO of Decatur after a water damage

7/7/2022 (Permalink)

Homeowners have a lot of questions after experiencing water or fire damage in their homes. At SERVPRO of Decatur, we like to help homeowners navigate through this process by acting quickly and answering any questions.

Our technicians have the necessary equipment, training, and expertise to properly restore any residential or commercial building. The first thing to do is remove the water, then clean up, and then start the drying process. We work with insurance companies to make this experience as stress-free as possible for homeowners. We offer temporary repairs, such as installing tarps, securing structures, board-ups, etc.

Do you have water damage? If the answer is yes, then reach out to SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998. We offer 24-hour emergency services. The quicker you act to mitigate the damage, the better to minimize damage and cleanup costs in the long run. CALL US TODAY!

We love water…just not in your home

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Decatur, we deal with water-related issues 24/7, from small residential roof leaks to pipe busts affecting 32 stories of a luxury skyscraper.

Our managers and water technicians are experienced in dealing with different situations and are prepared to make it “Like it never even happened.” It is paramount to handle any type of water damage, no matter how big or small, within the first 48 hours, so that mold growth can be minimized.

Our crews use different drying methods and equipment to dry the structure, by following the recommendations of the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. We also have our own reconstruction division, so that homeowners, building owners and property managers can rest assured that one company will take care of them from start to finish.

If water damage occurs on our property, contact SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998, we are available to help 24/7

SERVPRO of Decatur…Here to Help!

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Decatur can help homeowners dealing with water damage from flooding or leaks. It is important for homeowners to inspect the roof, gutters, yard, and foundation for any signs of damage. If you see some issues, contact the appropriate vendor in order to fix it as quickly as possible. A small leak in the roof can turn into a major headache throughout the home, and can not only cause water damage but also a mold problem.

If you need our help, we will inspect and do a damage assessment, begin the water removal and water extraction, use state-of-the-art equipment to dry the structure as fast as possible and provide repairs if desired.

We are a locally owned company with national resources. If your home or commercial property has any issues, please contact SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

Have you checked your washing machine connections?

5/19/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO of Decatur, we see this problem all the time. A homeowner calls the office with water damage due to a faulty washing machine connection. We recommend that you check your appliances regularly and fix anything immediately, do not say “I will get to it later,” because later can be too late. Remember, damages caused by lack of maintenance are not always covered by your insurance policy.

It is very common when there is water damage due to the washing machine, that a hose failure is to blame. Your machine has three hoses, two for hot and cold water, and the third to drain the water. If there is a faulty connection to the machine or wall, the chances of a problem increase dramatically. Make sure to tighten the hose. If your washing machine is not new, maybe now is a good time to replace those hoses. It is recommended that the hoses are replaced every five years or so.

Prevention is better than remediation, so take care of those small details now.

If you need help, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998, we are available to help 24/7.

Sewage backup damage

7/29/2021 (Permalink)

It is very difficult for homeowners to deal with water damage in their homes, but there is an extra level of stress when it is due to a sewage backup since that can be dangerous to the family living in the home.

In the industry, that type of water damage is categorized as a Cat 3 or “black water.”

It is important to identify what kind of water our technicians are dealing with since different sources of water cause different types of damage.

Clean water

This is the least contaminated, and it comes from a relatively sanitary source. It does not contain waste products and it comes from overflowing sinks, burst pipes, broken appliances, snow, and rain.

Gray Water

Gray water contains waste products and it could be from dishwasher leaks, washing machine leaks, aquarium malfunctions, waterbeds, etc. This type of water loss does not present the hazard of spreading diseases.

Black Water

This is the most contaminated type of water loss and that is why it is called black water.  This type of damage, if not done properly, can cause severe damage to your property.

At SERVPRO of Decatur, we follow the IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration. Our technicians will identify any safety hazards, try to save as many of your possessions as possible, and start the mitigation process right away.  

If you need help with sewage cleanup, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

Dealing with water damage…Call an experienced company

7/22/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage can be very traumatic and stressful for homeowners. At SERVPRO of Decatur, we will remediate your home to its preloss condition and make it “Like it never even happened.” The science of restoration can be extremely confusing and complicated, that is why our technicians will provide guidance and assistance and help homeowners make the best decision throughout the mitigation process. SERVPRO of Decatur’s technicians have the equipment, technology, and training to handle any size disaster.

We take pictures before, during, and after the remediation process, and document each step of the drying process. Our restore versus replace method helps customers know that we will do everything possible to save their valuable and sentimental possessions. Before we leave, we will ensure that the worksite is clean and professional.

If you need our help, we are ready to assist 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

Join Our Team! Hiring Production Technicians Now

7/9/2021 (Permalink)

You're hired sign Call us today at 404-378-9998

Do you love the challenge of leading a team and helping customers through difficult situations? Do not miss your chance to join our nationally-recognized company. As a Production Technician for SERVPRO of Decatur, you will be making a difference in the lives of our customers each and every day. We have a sincere desire of helping make fire and water damage “Like it never even happened.” We are seeking a team member who has a great attitude, is able to work efficiently in high-demand situations, and is dependable and energetic. Our idea of the ultimate candidate is one who is proactive, enjoys providing superior service, and loves taking ownership. As a valued member of our team, you will be part of a stable, growing company, offering state-of-the-art customer service and products throughout the United States. You will receive a competitive pay rate, with the opportunity to learn and grow.

Hours: 40 hours/week, flexible to work overtime when required.

SOME OF THE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Respond to and manage water/fire losses.
Ensure job processes and procedures are followed.
Monitor projects to completion.
Maintain equipment and vehicle inventory.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Must have a professional appearance and great attitude.
Must have a valid driver's license with a reasonable driving record.
Ability to pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions or misdemeanors involving violence or theft. Must be able to pass a drug test.
Because we provide 24-hour emergency services, must be willing to be on-call, as needed.
Some night and weekend work is required.
Must be able to lift a minimum of 50 pounds.

RECOMMENDED REQUIREMENTS:

Experience in the Fire and Water restoration industry.
IICRC WRT certification.

Please email your resume to sp8537@SERVPRO11349.com or visit our office to complete an application. 

Most Common Causes of Water Damage in Your Home

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

  • Poor gutter maintenance- You should create a routine and start inspecting your gutters once a year (more if your house is surrounded by a lot of trees). Poor gutter maintenance can cause major water damage in your whole house, like in the roof, siding, windows, trim, and doors. Inspect the gutters and make sure there are no leaky seams, standing water, missing flashing, and make sure that the downspouts are working properly.
  • Plumbing issues- Older homes are more likely to have plumbing issues. If you see an increase in your water bill, immediately call a plumber so they can find potential hidden issues in your home.
  • Leaky or bursting pipes- This issue can occur over a long period of time or suddenly, especially if it happens behind big appliances like a fridge or dishwasher. A small drip over time can create major issues under your floors or behind walls.
  • HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) Unit issues- Make sure you inspect your HVAC system regularly because it could be malfunctioning, circulating dust, malodors, and other pollutants.

SERVPRO of Decatur is always available to handle any water damage emergency, call us 24/7 at 404-378-5689.

How to prevent water damage in your home

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

There are some preventative measures homeowners can take to help avoid water damage in the home and prevent costly remediation. The longer the damage goes unnoticed and undetected, the longer it will take to fix it.

The Top 5 Ways to Prevent Water Damage

  • Gutters- properly functioning gutters are essential during storm season because they help guide water away from the home and foundation. Clogged gutters can spell disaster. Without anywhere to go, the water will backflow into the home, potentially causing significant water damage. Homeowners should make it a priority to regularly clean gutters and have them professionally maintained throughout the year.
  • Cut down trees- dead trees can topple over during a storm and cause major damage to your home. Roots can wrap around pipes and break them.
  • Know the location of the main water break- let the whole family know how to shut it off in case of an emergency.
  • Properly Storing Valuables- the best way to prevent water from destroying your belongings is with proper storage. We recommend going through your home and storing your valuables such as photo albums, books, or old toys in plastic storage bins so they are safe from the water!
  • Seasonal Cleaning- throughout the year, it’s tempting to throw unused items into the basement or garage. But when a big hurricane appears, you might not have time to clear these rooms out. To avoid potential water damage from ruining your items, clean before storm season approaches.

Flooding due to heavy storms

5/24/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding in the spring is very common in the South. Immediate action is needed, and you need a company with storm damage experience like SERVPRO of Decatur to help. We provide 24-hour Emergency Services 7 days a week.

If you see mold damage that covers more than ten square feet, make sure you hire a company with vast experience in the mold remediation and emergency flood cleanup industry. Time is of the essence in these situations, and quick handling of the cleanup process can minimize the damage if it is handled within the first 24 to 48 hours.

Keep in mind that only flood insurance will cover the damage from floods. If you are not sure about your coverage, contact your insurance agent to review your policy and learn more. Keep in mind that the waiting period for flood insurance range between 14 and 30 days.

If you need assistance, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

All you need to know about broken supply lines and water damage

7/30/2020 (Permalink)

A very important part of your home maintenance is the pluming system. A faulty or corroded supply line can cause major problems around your home.

Supply lines are thin hoses that run to appliances like dish washers, refrigerators, toilets, water heaters, washing machines, etc. Not every supply line is the same, and the quality and price of these items vary drastically. If homeowners opt for the cheaper versions, they have to keep in mind that hoses should be checked and replaced often. If you have never checked you supply lines, now would be a good time to do so.

Plastic lines usually have a warranty of around 5 to 7 years, and some stainless-steel water supply lines have a lifetime warranty.

If you experienced this type of water loss, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998 to help. Our water technicians are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Prevent Water Damage in your Decatur Home

7/29/2020 (Permalink)

Rain, rain, please go away! We have had so many pop-up summer storms lately that can lead to major water damage in your home.

Here are some tips you can follow to help avoid extensive water damage and prevent costly reconstruction costs.

  • Store your precious belongings, such as photo albums, books, or any other mementos, in plastic storage bins
  • Regularly clean gutters. If you cannot do it safely, hire a professional to do it and maintain it throughout the year. Properly functioning gutters are essential during storm season because they help guide water away from the home and foundation.
  • Do a seasonal cleaning and get rid (or donate) unwanted items throughout the year and clean before storm season approaches.

The professionals at SERVPRO of Decatur are here to get your house or business back in working order. Call us at 404-378-9998.

Determining what type of water damage you are dealing with

7/10/2020 (Permalink)

When our technicians go to a home or business, the first thing they must do is determine what kind of water damage they are dealing with. In the industry we use Categories to determine if we are dealing with clean water, gray water, or black water.

Category 1 (clean water) damage is usually from a broken pipes, rain or snow water, overflowing sinks, etc.

Category 2 (gray water) damage does not contain human waste products. It could be due to a leaking washing machine, or a leak in an aquarium.

Category 3 (black water) damage is the most contaminated type of water loss, and it comes from sewage backups or floodwater from natural disasters. If you are dealing with this type of loss, call a professional immediately.

Call SERVPRO of Decatur if you have any questions- 404-378-9998

Prevent Ice Maker Leaks

6/1/2020 (Permalink)

For any of your water restoration needs, call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998

We all love how convenient it is to walk up to the fridge, press a button and get a heaping scoop of ice during a hot summer day in Decatur, but what most homeowners are not aware of is the risk of water leaks that come with having the ice maker hooked up to a water source.

The copper or plastic water line can rupture and cause a major leak, that could go unnoticed for a long period. If you notice a leak, unplug the appliance immediate to minimize the risk of electric shock. The second thing you should do is determine if the leak is coming from inside the fridge or outside. Regularly inspect and replace worn or defective parts.

GE recommends checking the water line fittings to make sure they are secure, check the water valve for leaks, see if there are any leaks from the full tube extension, the defrost water drain could be cracked or overflowing, and make sure that the refrigerator is leveled (you can use the Measure app on your smartphone)

You can purchase flood alarm sensors online or at any hardware store. If water is detected by the sensors, it will start playing a loud sound and alert you of the moisture, newer models will send a notification to your phone.

If you think you might have a leak in your home, please call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998. Our highly trained technicians can inspect the damage using state of the art technology, like moisture meters, thermal imaging cameras and moisture sensors, to detect hidden moisture under floors or behind walls.

Your home was damaged by water…What should you do next?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

man wearing a white shirt and black pants holding a clipboard and a woman wearing a black polo shirt and khaki pants holding an iPad.

One of the most frequently asked questions that we get is what to do after experiencing water damage in your home. The key is to act fast, before more damage can occur.

We tell our customers to stop the water source right away, like shutting the main water line, sprinkler system, etc. The next step is to call a professional company, such as SERVPRO of Decatur, to help mitigate the damage.

Our highly trained crew will scope the damage, write a plan of action, and immediately start the drying process. They have state of the art technology at their disposal, such as thermal imaging cameras to detect damage hidden behind walls, ceilings, and floors. Our customers can rest assured that no damage is too large or too small for SERVPRO.

For all of your water restoration needs SERVPRO of Decatur is ready 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 404-378-9998

What does it mean to scope a job?

5/29/2020 (Permalink)

Our technicians walking a building scoping water damage

Experiencing water damage in your home or business is a traumatic event. After contacting a water restoration company like SERPVRO of Decatur, it is hard for homeowners to understand the drying process. Rest assured that our highly trained technicians will explain the process every step of the way.

Every crew member at SERVPRO of Decatur receives extensive training from our Training Specialist and know how to properly operate all our equipment. They will start the drying process as soon as they get to the job site.

The first thing the Crew Chief will do is scope the damage. They will use moisture sensors, thermal imaging cameras, and moisture meters to determine the areas that have been affected.

  • Moisture Sensors- The techs use this tool to detect moisture in carpets and padding.
  • Thermal Imaging Cameras (Infrared cameras)- We use these cameras to inspect and monitor moisture found in wet materials like walls, ceiling, floors, etc. Our technicians use this to find “hidden” spots that would have gone undetected just by looking. Another benefit of using these cameras is that we minimize the damage by avoiding unnecessary demolition of walls, floors, etc.
  • Moisture Meters- Our crews use this to measure the moisture content of affected materials.

These are just a few of the tools we use to scope a job. If you have a question about what the technicians are doing, just ask them, they will be more than happy to explain the process.

SERVPRO of Decatur has the training and equipment to make it “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 404-378-9998

Rotten plywood under the sink? Could be a sign of a long-term leak

8/2/2019 (Permalink)

Water leaks under kitchen and bathroom sinks are a common occurrence in homes. A small pipe leak that has gone undetected for a long time can cause major damage and create mold problems. It can also damage floors, subfloors, cabinets, drywall, insulation, etc. If the leak happened on an upper level, it can damage the ceiling and walls on lower level rooms.

If you start seeing water marks or discoloration under sinks that is a sign that water is getting in somehow. Regularly inspect the area under sinks, and around cabinets to make sure there are no new stains and the area is dry. You can purchase water alarm sensors online or at any hardware store. If water is detected by the sensors, it will start playing an loud sound and alert homeowners of the moisture.

SERVPRO of Decatur has the necessary knowledge, training and equipment to handle any size disaster. Call now and let our experienced crew remediate the damage. 404-378-9998.

Hidden Water Damage Dangers

8/1/2019 (Permalink)

When people think about water damage, they think about a major event such a busted hot water heater, water rushing from the bathtub into the lower floors, or an overflowing toilet spilling water all over the bathroom. Unfortunately, hidden leaks can be as costly if they go unnoticed for a long time.  

A cracked water line could cause a slow drip behind the fridge that could damage the wall behind it, rot the underfloor and end up ruining the cabinets around it. Unless you notice a puddle of water or start smelling a musty odor around the appliance, it is hard to spot the damage until it is too late.

Take the time to walk around your home and check around the toilets, under the kitchen sink, bathroom sinks, hot water heater, fridge, freezer, washing machine, dishwasher, etc. Regularly inspect the crawlspace, attic, and basement for signs of long-term water damage, leaks, and mold.

If you are dealing with moisture issues, you can call SERVPRO of Decatur at 404-378-9998 to schedule an inspection.

Do you think you are prepared for a water emergency?

7/12/2019 (Permalink)

We have had a very active storm season this summer, with a lot of rain and wind.

Although some damages are unavoidable, there are a few things homeowner can do to protect their belongings form costly water damage.

  • Clean your gutters regularly. If it is not safe for you to do so, have them professionally maintained throughout the year.
  • Repair loose shingles and inspect your roof (especially if it is older than 5-10 years).
  • Store your precious belongings (such as photo albums, flash drives, mementos, old books, collectibles) in plastic storage containers.
  • Store important documents (birth certificates, social security cards, wills, passports, tax returns, deeds, etc.) in a fireproof safety box

The team at SERVPRO of Decatur has the training and knowledge to help with any water emergency in Decatur. We believe in restore versus replace, saving homeowners time and money during a stressful situation.

Call us today- 404-378-9998

Avoid Basement Flooding

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Call us today at 404-378-9998

We hate to say it but basements are prone to flooding and it can happen at any time, even if your basement has never flooded before. And the reason is simple…gravity. Water will move from high ground to the lowest ground possible, and since basements are built below the ground level, that is where water wants to travel to. Even a small amount of water in your basement can damage walls, floors, carpeting, personal belongings, and can even help mold spread.

If you experience a flooded basement, the first step you should take is to determine the source. Was it because there was a storm or a natural disaster, sewer issues, or is it a recurring problem, such as foundation issues.

If your basements needs water mitigation, call SERVPRO of Decatur today. 

Water damage and gutters

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Decatur today- 404-378-9998

When was the last time you inspected the gutters in your home? If it has been more than a year, you should probably do it sooner rather than later, specially if your home is surrounded by a lot of trees.

Poor gutter maintenance can cause major water damage in your house, roof problems, mold and mildew, foundation and crawlspace issues, structural damage, siding damage, rotting windows, trim and doors, and damage to the gutter itself.

Inspect that there are no leaking seams, standing water, missing flashing, and make sure that the downspouts are installed properly. The water must travel away from the home from the downspouts.

Remember always exercise caution if you decide to inspect your gutters, since it can be dangerous maneuvering a ladder to inspect hard to reach places. When in doubt, call a professional to help you with the task.

If you see any water damage, call SERVPRO of Decatur to help you- 404-378-9998

What to do until SERVPRO of Decatur arrives

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Decatur and let us help!

We understand how difficult it is to deal with a major water damage to your home or business. When it first happens, it is hard to know what steps to take next. After calling SERVPRO of Decatur, here are a few things you can do to help minimize the damage to your home and its contents.

Remember, though, to always keep safety first! Please do not attempt these steps if the situation is potentially dangerous.

What to DO

  • Remove excess water by mopping
  • Dry out areas using fans, if there are no electrical issues ONLY
  • Wipe excess water from furniture
  • Remove wet upholstery and pillows
  • Place aluminum foil, Styrofoam plates, or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet floors
  • Remove colored rugs from wet floors
  • Remove sentimental decorations and art to a dry room

What NOT to do

  • Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet floors
  • Don't use your vacuum to remove water
  • Don't use any of the appliances
  • Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet
  • Don’t enter rooms where the ceiling is sagging

Water Damage Emergency Tips

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Decatur Today at 404-378-9998

What you can do until help arrives

After any water damage situation, your primary and only focus should be safety:

  • Do you think it is safe to remain in the house?
  • Pay attention to electrical hazards, and if it’s possible turn off the power
  • Don’t walk around inspecting the damage, “slip and fall hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
  • Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
  • Don’t lift wet materials, they can be VERY heavy.
  • Be careful and use common sense!

Do You Have A Water Damage Emergency?  We can help you minimize the water damage and save some of your most prized possessions. Regardless of the source, SERVPRO of Decatur can handle any size disaster
Call SERVPRO of Decatur Today at 404-378-9998 if you have storm damage, flooded basements, sewage backups, flooding from firefighting efforts, etc.

Appliances and Water Damage

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Decatur Today at 404-378-9998

Any of your appliances connected to a water line could potentially cause water damage. One of the most frequent problems that we see is water damage from a leaky refrigerator. Unlike other types of water damage, this can happen over a long period of time without the homeowner noticing it, since the damage is hidden under and behind the fridge.

If you have the ice maker connected to the water line, make sure the line fittings are secured. Check water valves and defrost drains for leaks or cracks.  If the fridge has a clogged defrost drain, the water will leak into the lower compartment of your fridge and run onto the floor. Condensation could be another reason why water is pooling around the fridge, since it can run down the walls and into the floor. The best way to avoid dealing with water damage cause by your fridge is to regularly check and maintain the appliance.

Source: https://www.hunker.com/12603583/my-refrigerator-has-water-on-the-floor-in-front-of-it-and-it-is-not-as-cold-as-it-should-be

http://products.geappliances.com/appliance/gea-support-search-content?contentId=17382

We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

7/16/2018 (Permalink)

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 404-378-9998

A basement can flood at any time, but specially now with the heavy rainfall we’ve had around Decatur. Basements are inherently prone to flooding because they are the lowest level of a building and are normally built partly or entirely below ground level. There are a number of reasons why your basement could flood, including: 

  • A blocked or failed sewer lateral pipe
  • Heavy rain causes surface water to pool around your home
  • Storm sewer backup
  • Sanitary sewer backup
  • Foundation drainage failure
  • Water supply-line break or hot-water tank failure
  • And many more

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

Call Today – 404-378-9998

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can jeopardize your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It’s worth making a call to SERVPRO Decatur and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Trained  in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

DOs and DON'Ts for Water Damage From Contaminated Water

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Call us –404-378-9998

These Emergency Tips will assist you in taking the proper action until SERVPRO of Decatur professionals arrive. Please follow some of these simple DOs and DON'Ts to help reduce further damage and increase the chances of successful restoration of your home or building. Below are some Dos and DON’Ts that you should follow if you are forced to deal with water damage:

DOs…

  • Do call SERVPRO of Decatur as soon as possible at 404-378-9998.
  • Do avoid all contact with sewage and items contaminated by sewage.
  • Do wash your hands thoroughly after contact with contaminated items.

DON'Ts…

  • Don’t spread contaminated water by walking unnecessarily on damaged or wet areas.
  • Don’t turn on the HVAC system if there is a possibility of spreading contaminated air.
  • Don’t use household fans to dry the structure and spread contaminants.
  • Don’t use products for personal hygiene and cleanliness if exposed to contaminated areas.

Note: If exposed to harmful waste, OSHA recommends a post-exposure medical evaluation. Consult with your local health department or physician.

Have questions about Contaminated Water Damage and Cleanup? Call us –404-378-9998

Have Questions about Basement Flooding?

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Call Today -- 404-378-9998

If flood water is not handled quickly and properly, it can jeopardize your health and safety, and cause severe damage to your home’s structure. Remember, the longer you wait, the worse the problem will get.

The bottom line: a flooded basement can endanger your health, safety, and your home’s integrity. It is worth making a call to SERVPRO of Decatur and let our trained, professional crews handle the situation safely and correctly. We have earned the trust of hundreds of homeowners, business owners, and property professionals.

We are Flooded Basement Specialists:

  • We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
  • We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
  • We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
  • Our Technicians are Highly-Qualified in Water Restoration Techniques
  • We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
  • We have Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help 404-378-9998

The problems that broken supply lines cause

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Decatur is a phone call away. 404-378-9998

When most people see that SERVPRO is a flood cleanup company and they think, "I don't live by an ocean or pond or river so the chance of my house flooding is next to nothing."

But, what most people don't know is that the majority of flooding calls we get come from broken supply lines. Supply lines are those thin hoses that run to appliances like refrigerators, dish washers, toilets, water heaters, clothes washers, etc. The quality and price of these hoses vary drastically. Most people opt for the least expensive option without knowing that cheap hoses need to be checked and replaced often. Sudden bursts and slow drips both can cause a substantial amount of damage which require flood mitigation and sometimes mold remediation. If you haven't checked you supply lines in a while, or ever, now would be a good time to do so.

We are available to provide estimates to any supply lines that may be of concern.

Flooding in Georgia

8/10/2017 (Permalink)

According to the World Economic Forum, “in the last 20 years, flooding has been the most common natural disaster by far, accounting for 43% of all recorded events.” We can completely understand this with all of the rain and floods we have been having in Georgia this summer! You wake up on a Saturday morning ready to relax by the pool or go to the lake after a busy week at the office, only to see the dark clouds glooming over you. You see the trees shaking from the gusts of wind blowing by and you hear the thunder in the distance. You hope that the storm will “blow over” quickly, but then it begins to pour. You watch as the water accumulates across your property and then, just like that, the water is now intruding into your home. Now are you not going to be able to spend your weekend outside enjoying a dip in the pool, but your basement has become your own personal swimming ground! Take the measures to prevent additional damage to your home or office, then call SERVPRO of Decatur to properly take care of the damage that has already been done.

If your home or commercial building is affected by a flood, give us a call day or night! Give us a call at 404-378-9998.

How to Prevent Water Damage

8/9/2017 (Permalink)

With a summer that has been full of so much rain, reports of water damage have been extremely high. Even though some water fiascos are completely unavoidable, there are some preventative measures you can take to help avoid water damage in your home and prevent costly repairs.

The Top 3 Ways to Prevent Water Damage

  1. Properly Storing Valuables

As mentioned above some storms and leaks you cannot predict, but the best way to prevent water from destroying your belongings is with proper storage. We recommend going through your home and storing your valuables such as photo albums, books, or old toys in plastic storage bins so they are safe from water!

  1. Seasonal Cleaning

Throughout the year, it’s tempting to throw unused items into the basement or garage. But when a big hurricane appears, you might not have time to clear these rooms out. To avoid potential water damage from ruining your items, clean before storm season approaches.

  1. Gutters

Properly functioning gutters are essential during storm season because they help guide water away from the home and foundation. Clogged gutters can spell disaster. Without anywhere to go, the water will backflow into your home, potentially causing significant water damage. Make it a priority to regularly clean gutters and have them professionally maintained throughout the year.