Recent Water Damage Posts

Lancaster Residents: We Specialize in Flooded Basement Cleanup and Restoration!

6/5/2024 (Permalink)

a flooded basement This Lancaster home’s basement flooded.

A basement can flood at any time, although flooding most often occurs during heavy rainfall. 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 Lancaster 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 - (717) 665-1270

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 of Western Lancaster 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

Basement Flooded? Call Us Today – We’re Ready To Help (717) 665-1270

Guide to Commercial Water Damage Restoration

4/4/2023 (Permalink)

water damage Water damage causing leakage from ceiling

Plenty of people assume water damage is the same, whether in a residential or commercial space. However, not all water damage is created equal. If your business experiences the unfortunate blow of water damage, contacting a mold remediation company that specializes in services for commercial spaces is key.

What Is the Difference Between Commercial Versus Residential Water Damage?

Flooring is one of the major differences in commercial and residential water damage. Homes often have plush carpets with padded underlay. Commercial spaces favor low pile carpet. This often makes the water removal process in a commercial space much easier than a residential space, where there are more layers of flooring to tear out.

Commercial buildings often have complex equipment setups that can add a challenge for mold remediation services. Plus, depending on the type of commercial space in question, there are likely by-laws and industry standards to cohere too – particularly in the realm of healthcare, food, childcare, and education.

Be Prepared for Water Damage and Make a Rapid Response

Facilities may differ in size and setup, but no matter what business you’re in, you need to be aware of the risk of water damage. Any unwanted water intrusion, whether from a catastrophic weather event to minor roof leaks, can affect the integrity, quality, and value of a commercial building.

Make sure the maintenance team pays close attention to the roof, window sealant joints, flashings, and other envelope elements as a preventative measure. Carefully maintaining the roof, windows, and other parts of the building can reduce the likelihood of water damage, but plenty of unexpected events can occur to create water damage that even the most prepared business leaders cannot avoid.

In the event of water damage, enact a rapid water emergency response by quickly shutting down water supply lines. If necessary, safely shut down any electric or gas supply lines. Contact emergency personnel as needed.


Water Damage Restoration Process

When water damage hits, the faster your commercial enterprise contacts a water removal company specializing in mold remediation services, the faster you’ll be back up and running safely. A removal company will go to the scene to evaluate the property and to contain and prevent further damage.

From there, the contractors will extract any standing water so the water damage restoration process can begin. In many cases of water damage due to flooding, building materials such as drywall, carpet, and carpet padding will need to be removed and discarded. This demolition happens before drying out the building, so that the final dry-out can be optimally effective. Drying processes generally take a few days.

If mold growth is a concern, the water damage restoration company may apply antimicrobials to destroy existing mold or to prevent mold from growing. Finally, moisture testing will be done to double-check dryness. Construction services can resume as needed to return the commercial building to normalcy, including any electrical, heating, cooling, and plumbing work.

How to Select a Commercial Mold Remediation Company in Western Lancaster County

Selecting a water damage restoration company and mold remediation services to clean up and restore your commercial building after a disaster is a big decision. SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County can help you restore your commercial property as if the damage had never happened.

SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County PA has highly trained water damage technicians who are ready 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your western Lancaster County PA commercial property. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find water and remove it as quickly as possible. The scientific drying principles we use provide validation and documentation that your property is dry, and the job is complete.

There is never a convenient time for flooding or water damage to strike your business. When an emergency arises in your business, give us a call at 717-665-1270 and we’ll be there fast with the help you need.

What Happens If I Ignore Water Damage?

1/2/2023 (Permalink)

water dripping from faucet Water damage can be caused by leaking pipes inside or outside of your home.

In a perfect world, water should only enter your home through specially fitted pipes. But as any adult knows, real life isn’t perfect, and water can get inside the house through leaks, flooding, and other issues that all lead to serious problems.

Travelers Insurance analyzed eight years of insurance claims and found that water damage accounted for 35% of its claims. From weather causing leaky roofs or non-weather catastrophes like plumbing, sewer, or appliance leaks, water damage is no joke.

Even so, with everything you have going on already, you may be tempted to ignore the water damage. This is ill-advised, as ignoring water damage can lead to even more extensive destruction with a higher price tag (and timeline) to repair properly.

Structural Damage

An overflowing bathtub or toilet that is not adequately dried out as soon as possible can cause structural damage. A water damage restoration contractor or the best mold remediation companies are knowledgeable about how much drying is necessary.

Any water damage – regardless of what caused it – is likely to lead to structural damage when not attended to quickly. Damp walls need to be sufficiently dried so cracks do not appear. Once cracks surface, you’ll be facing expensive structural repairs. Structural damage affects the integrity of a home and may necessitate high-priced contractors to remedy what was weakened by water damage.

Health Effects

The health of everyone in your home or workspace is of the utmost importance, and water damage can create mold growth that leads to adverse health effects.

Terrible Smells

Ignoring water damage and mold will also allow musty smells to fester – and no one wants to smell a musty odor. Bad smells are often the first sign of more subtle water damage and can range from a mildewy scent to sewage.

The longer you leave water damage unattended, the more difficult it will be to get rid of that smell.

Pest Infestation

Where there is water damage, pests can often find an easier passageway into your home. Small holes in a roof, door, window, or cracks in your foundation are a welcome mat for pests. If they find a source of food and water inside, they will settle in and start breeding.

Silverfish, a nocturnal insect, are a common pest attracted to water-damaged homes in the Lancaster, PA region and beyond, as they thrive in high-moisture areas.

Electrical Issues

Water and electricity do not mix well because of the risk of electric shock or fire. Ignoring water damage when it comes to electrical components could lead to serious injury or even death. Do not take chances with electricity.

When you do not deal with initial water damage to your home’s electrical system, appliances, and devices, it can damage the wiring. Damaged wiring may arc or cause power surges that could permanently damage devices plugged into the system.

A water damage restoration contractor can check all the electrical components and tell you if your heating and cooling equipment can be salvaged.

Increased Utility Bills

Maybe you haven’t experienced a recent flood or major water seepage, but instead, a hidden pipe or joint behind a wall or under the floor is leaking. Even water damage on a seemingly smaller scale like this can lead to greater damage – and in the meantime, your utility bills will be higher due to wasted excess water.

Roof Calamities

Ignoring a leak in your roof can lead to mildew and mold growth. Mold can then spread throughout the house, growing on everything from carpet to furniture and even clothing in your closets. Mildew is tricky to eliminate – not to mention expensive – so dealing with it sooner rather than later is always best.

On a practical level, a leaky roof can create slick, slippery surfaces when it drips all over your floors.

Perhaps the greatest risk of ignoring a leaky roof is the potential to start a fire. Water dripping onto electronic devices increases the chances of a fire starting due to electrical short circuits. Since wiring behind walls is out of view, people do not notice the leak and the fire can start and spread quickly. Ignoring water damage to your roof can lead to extensive costs and tragedies.

Finding a Water Damage Restoration Contractor Near Me

The long and short of what happens if you ignore water damage? You incur greater damages, raise costs, and run the risk of further devastation. If you have water damage and are looking for the best mold remediation companies and a water damage restoration contractor near me, SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County is here for you.

The highly trained restoration technicians at SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County, PA offer 24-hour emergency service with state-of-the-art equipment and are faster to any size disaster. Call us today at 717-665-1270 or email us at Office@SERVPRO11604.com.

SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County can respond and properly clean and restore the water damage or mold in your house so that it looks, smells, and feels like home again. In addition to water damage restoration and mold remediation, SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County offers other residential restoration and cleaning services and commercial services. SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County is among more than 2090 SERVPRO franchises providing trusted restoration services throughout the United States and Canada.

What Does Water Damage Look Like?

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage is unfortunate when it happens in your home or business. It’s a problem that must be addressed immediately, so you don’t risk further damage to your property’s structure. What does water damage look like, and how will you know when you have it?

SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County will show you how to recognize the signs, so you’ll be prepared to contact a professional when you need fast water damage restoration.

It may look like wet or dark spots

If you see dark spots on the walls and ceilings, you’ve likely had recent water damage. This brownish discoloration—or in some cases, wet-looking spots—indicates that water has seeped into the paint as it tries to “escape” the drywall.

Why would the drywall be soaked with water in the first place? Often, this is the result of a plumbing problem that needs to be addressed—a leaking pipe somewhere nearby.

It may look like peeling paint

If the paint on your walls or ceilings is peeling or flaking, you’ve probably had water damage for some time. Wet spots tend to show up first, but when the problem is left unaddressed, the paint will start to peel.

It may look like swollen drywall—or a sagging ceiling

Unsurprisingly, water damage doesn’t do any favors for the looks of your drywall. If left unattended for too long, it can cause your ceilings and walls to swell.

This can be especially dangerous in ceilings. The weight of waterlogged drywall can cause the ceilings to sag and make them structurally unsound. You don’t want to put the people in your life at risk, so be sure to address this swelling ASAP when you notice it in your home or business.

It may look like mold

Mold spores are floating in the air everywhere, indoors and outdoors. You can’t eliminate them, but you do want to avoid their growing into colonies. All mold spores need is a little bit of water to begin to grow into the visible mold you’ve seen before on surfaces.

If you can spot mold growing, there’s a good chance of water damage nearby. The problem is that mold can be difficult to see with the naked eye. It tends to show up in hidden places—nooks and crannies, behind furniture, in basements, and other hard-to-see locations. 

Mold is no joke. It can spread quickly once present and be hard to get rid of. It can produce allergic and respiratory symptoms, as well, so be sure to call a mold remediation specialist if you find it in your home or business.

It may smell damp and musty

Water damage isn’t all about looks. It involves smells, too, so it’s time to put your nose to work.  

When water leaks into building materials like wood and drywall and lingers there, it won’t take long for you to notice a damp or musty smell. The same is true of mold. If you have mold growing due to water damage—likely on your walls or baseboards—you may notice a similar musty scent.

What Should I Do if I See Water Damage?

If you see (or smell) the signs of water damage on your property, we recommend that you contact us  for fast 24-hour service. If you catch the problem early enough, our certified specialists can help you avoid the worst-case scenarios mentioned above.

With decades of experience in commercial and residential water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County is here to make your water problem go away—Like It Never Even Happened!

Water Damage Restoration & Repair near Me

4/22/2022 (Permalink)

If your home or business has seen flood or water damage recently, you probably have a lot on your mind. Flooding is never fun to deal with, but we’re here to help. Turn to SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County for fast water damage restoration and repair, so life can get back to normal sooner.

Not just sooner—as soon as possible. Our professional team will complete your restoration with lightning speed, so it’ll be Like It Never Even Happened. Don’t delay—give us a call today.

Here’s Why You Want Fast Water Damage Restoration

Secondary water damage is a real problem. If the necessary steps are not taken, and taken quickly, you may find yourself dealing with a whole new set of issues. So, what can happen when you don’t move at lightning speed?

  • Mold and mildew can grow
  • Wood can rot
  • Metal can rust
  • Furniture can warp
  • Electrical damage can happen

Mold growth is among the most common forms of secondary water damage. The bad news is that mold can begin to grow in as little as 24 hours in moist conditions. The good news? Our professionals are available for fast 24-hour service for all your water restoration and repair needs.

For Water Damage, Call in the Experts 

We’re here to help Lancaster County, PA, residents salvage their water-damaged properties. Our technicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year-long to respond immediately when flood damage strikes your property.

We use advanced water inspection, extraction, and drying equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. We’ll closely monitor the drying process, so we can get your property back to normal right on schedule.

Get 24-Hour Water Damage Restoration & Repair  

SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County really is Faster to Any Size Disaster. For water damage repair and restoration in 24 hours or less, you can count on us to get the job done right. Contact us for your water damage emergency and let our experts restore your home or business!

What are the benefits of water damage restoration services

3/4/2022 (Permalink)

water damage Don't hesitate to call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster when in need of our restoration services. We're always happy and ready to help!

Once a flood or fire damages an individual's home, it's important for them to attain speedy, efficient water damage restoration services. The restoration process is a multi-faceted one, involving a vast range of services including cleaning and various repairs. Moreover, it is important that this process begins as quickly as possible to ensure that your property isn't subjected to extensive damage. The best way to guarantee that your property is restored quickly and correctly is by obtaining professional water damage restoration services. Here are several reasons why you should take this course of action: 

Fast Restoration 

When you hire a team of  professional water damage experts, they will complete your cleanup, repair, and restoration work with lightning speed. The contractors will be able to get the work done quickly due to their extensive experience in the restoration sector. Moreover, restoration firms will typically send multiple contractors to your property at one time. In so doing, the company specialists will be able to preclude your home from falling prey to secondary water damage. 

Mold And Mildew Growth Prevention 

In addition to ensuring the quick restoration of your property, water damage specialists are effective in reducing your susceptibility to a mold and mildew growth. They accomplish this objective by quickly removing excess water from the property. In the event that mold is already present on your property, the water damage experts will utilize industrial grade cleaners and disinfectants to eliminate the fungus with skill and speed. This work is immensely important because ongoing exposure to mold can adversely impact your health. 

Holistic Help 

Another reason it's a good idea to call a  water damage restoration company in the wake of a disaster is that they can offer holistic services. Unfortunately, there is a broad range of property issues that can come into being when your property is subjected to water damage. Luckily, water damage experts can address and resolve them all. Some of the services contractors provide to accomplish this objective include vent cleaning, air duct cleaning, odor removal, smoke removal, deodorization, sanitation, and content restoration. 

Don't Delay: Call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County Today! 

If you're serious about restoring your property after water damage, SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County is the company to call. Our IICRC-certified technicians offer a full range of restoration services while simultaneously providing each client with 24/7 emergency services. Call us now to learn more about what we can do for you! 717-665-1270

Winter Water Damage Prevention

2/9/2022 (Permalink)

Call the professionals if you're in need of water restoration

Though winter months bring cooler temperatures, hot cocoa, and scenic snow landscapes, winter weather also brings increased risk of water damage to your home. Winter is notorious for being cold and wet. Many people don’t realize that larger amounts of snow and ice can have severe consequences. Below are three of the top causes of winter water damage and how to reduce your risk.

OUTDOOR WATER SOURCES

When the temperatures drop, it is important to pay attention to your outdoor water sources. Neglecting your outdoor water sources could cause problems when spring comes around.

  • Shut off the water to your outdoor hoses and spigots.
  • Drain any water from your hoses and store them in a climate-controlled area to prevent them from freezing, cracking, or breaking in the cold.

BURST OR FROZEN PIPES

Frozen pipes build up significant pressure which can lead to pipes cracking or bursting in winter months. If a cracked or broken pipe goes undetected, they can lead to flooding once the ice melts.

  • Make sure your outer walls and any exposed pipes are properly insulated.
  • Be sure to caulk cracks and holes you see in your exterior walls; this can help to prevent cold air from reaching the pipes.
  • Protect exposed pipes from freezing temperatures by wrapping them with the insulating tape or old towels.
  • When temperatures are extremely low, or you plan to be away from home for several days, leave the faucets lightly dripping and keep the cabinets under your sink open to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes. Doing so will keep water flowing and can help prevent your pipes from freezing.
  • For maximum protection against hidden or sudden leaks, install a detection system that can monitor water pressure and automatically signal a water shut-off in the event of a leak or blocked pipe.

ICE DAMS AND ROOF LEAKS

Icicles may be a staple of winter, but they can be a sign that your home is in a vulnerable state. If your gutters are clogged, the snow that melts off your roof won't be able to pass through the drainage system properly. As the water trapped in your gutters refreezes, a wall of icicles will build up, eventually causing ice dams. The melt from these ice dams can damage your roof and seep into your attic, causing structural damage or mold. Any ice melt that drips over the sides of your gutters has the potential to pool next to your home's foundation and cause additional water damage. Finally, sharp icicles may break off as they melt, posing a serious safety hazard.

  • Clean your gutters before cold weather comes around to keep the dangers of ice dams and roof leaks at a minimum.

CALL THE PROFESSIONALS

If you aren't able to prevent winter water damage, don't fear! SERVPRO of Western Lancaster has a 24/7 emergency response team available to assist during troublesome times! Call the professionals that are faster to any size disaster at 717-665-1270.

Responding to Water Damage

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

Responding to Water Damage The professionals at SERVPRO of Western Lancaster are prepared for any sized water loss your home or business may encounter!

The professionals at SERVPRO of Western Lancaster are prepared for any sized water loss your home or business may encounter!

WATER DAMAGE:

Water damage can happen anywhere, but some areas and types of damage occur more often than others. When problems go beyond simple cleanup and sanitation, your cleaning personnel or company may be ill-equipped to handle the consequences of significant water damage. SERVPRO of Western Lancaster provides fast and efficient services, ensuring all affected areas are clean, undamaged, and pleasant-smelling after a water loss.

COMMON WATER LOSS CAUSES:

Plumbing Overflow

Plumbing overflow in a sink, tub, or toilet, is a common issue that requires a call to SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County.

In commercial settings like hotels, determining when, where, and why water damage has occurred can sometimes be challenging. It can take a few days even to catch this water damage in the first place. When we arrive, our team of professionals will draft a detailed assessment of the situation and can provide an estimate of our projected work times and costs.

Water Line Leaks and Breaks

Water lines run through the buildings risk leaking or bursting, especially if the lines are older.

Be sure to call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster as soon as you suspect that a water line may have ruptured. The speed of our response may be critical in preventing further damage.

Ensure that pipes receive semi-regular maintenance and checkups to avoid most water line problems in your home or business.

Open Windows

Sometimes, we want a bit of fresh air, so we open a window. Water damage can occur quickly if you forget to close the window before a storm rolls through your area.

Rain pouring into your structure through an open window can cause significant damage to furniture, walls, and flooring. Calling your local SERVPRO team can help you quickly prevent most of the damage and begin the restoration process.

WHAT OUR TECHNICIANS WILL DO:

SERVPRO technicians have a seven-step process to estimate the damage and restore your home and business. It all starts with assessing the damage and determining if the site is safe to enter.

From that point, we will:

  • Determine the extent of the moisture content in affected areas
  • Move furniture that may hinder drying results 
  • Extract water
  • Remove drywall and flooring (if necessary) 
  • Start the drying process with air movers and dehumidifiers 

Once the restoration process is complete, we will perform a walk-through with business owners or homeowners to show what we’ve done and guarantee customer satisfaction.

WHO TO CALL:

At SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County, no job is too big or too small for our team of certified and highly trained experts. If water damage occurs in your residential home or commercial property, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Western Lancaster at 717-665-1270.

It is important to call as soon as possible because water damage that professionals have not mitigated can quickly become a breeding ground for mold or further damage. We have a 24/7 response team that can immediately begin the water damage restoration process. Contact us today.

Preventing Commercial Water Damage

7/30/2021 (Permalink)

This is an example of water damage that a commercial property had an issue with . SERVPRO of Western Lancaster was called on to restore the area.

Water damage in your commercial building can have many negative consequences to your business. Depending on the severity, water damage can reduce your everyday workflow and productivity. It can also affect the health and life style of your employees, customers, and/or residents. It is important that you first identify the cause of the water damage to stop it at the source, then you must dry out the area in order to be able to begin the restoration process. Some causes of water damage in your commercial building are clogged sewers and a faulty building foundation.

Clogged Drains/sewers:

A backed up drain and clogged sewers can be the start of water damage. The backed up water in these clogged drains and sewers contains harmful bacteria. It is important to clean these drains periodically, to avoid potential water damage.

Faulty Building Foundation:

A defective building foundation can be a result of many things. Leaking pipes and roofs are mainly caused by storm damage and can lead to water damage overtime if not taken care of right away. This water damage could lead to the growth of mold, which can then affect residents, customers, and employees quality of life. Keeping up on duct cleaning is also important for your commercial building because backed up air ducts can also lead to leaks and water damage.

Water damage in your commercial property is a problem that should not be ignored. Fortunately for you SERVPRO of Western Lancaster has trained professionals that are capable of completing any job you may need in a fast, efficient way. 

Call us at SERVPRO of Western Lancaster anytime with our 24/7 service provider at (717)-665-1270

Water Remediation and Restoration

7/23/2021 (Permalink)

An example of a water damaged bathroom that went untreated, which lead to the growth of mold. SERVPRO professionals were called to restore damages.

WATER DAMAGE:

Water damage can happen anywhere, but some areas and types of damage occur far more often than others. When problems go beyond simple cleanup and sanitation, your cleaning personnel or company may be ill-equipped to handle the consequences of significant water damage. SERVPRO of Western Lancaster specializes in providing fast and efficient services, ensuring all affected areas are clean, undamaged, and pleasant-smelling after a water loss.

COMMON WATER LOSS CAUSES:

Plumbing Overflow -

A common reason for us to be called to a site for water damage is when a sink, toilet, or bathtub overflows. In commercial settings, like hotels, determining when, where, and why water damage has occurred can sometimes be difficult. At times, it may be days or more before you discover a water loss, and water can begin to leak elsewhere, causing further damages. Our team of professionals will draft a detailed assessment of the situation, and can provide an estimate of our projected work times and costs.

Water Line Leaks and Breaks -

With water lines running throughout the building, it may not be uncommon for them to leak or burst, especially if they are older. Be sure to call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster as soon as you suspect that a water line may have been ruptured. The speed of our response may be critical in preventing further damages. To avoid most water line problems in your home or business, make sure that pipes receive semi-regular maintenance and checkups.

Open Windows -

Sometimes we want a bit of fresh air, so we open a window. If you forget to close the window before a storm rolls through your area, water damage can occur quickly. Rain pouring into your structure through an open window can cause significant damage to furniture, walls, and flooring, but most of the worst effects can be prevented through a quick call to SERVPRO.

WHAT OUR TECHNICIANS WILL DO:

  • Assess damages and determine if site is safe
  • Determine the extent of the moisture content in affected areas
  • Move furniture that may hinder drying results 
  • Extract water
  • Remove drywall and flooring (if necessary) 
  • Start the drying process with air movers and dehumidifiers 
  • Ensure rooms are completely dry and conduct a walk through with home/business owners, to guarantee customer satisfaction

WHO TO CALL:

At SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County, no job is too big or too small for our Team of certified and highly trained experts. If water damage occurs in your residential home or commercial property, call the professionals at SERVPRO of Western Lancaster at 717-665-1270. It is important to call as soon as possible because water damage that has not been mitigated by professionals, can quickly become a breeding ground for mold or further damages.

Extract-ly What You Need

7/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO employee preforming a water extraction from a customer's home.

Causes & Consequences of Water Damage 

Incidents that often cause water damage in your home or business are:

  • Leaky or burst pipes
  • Natural disasters
  • Structural damage of the home.

Water damage in your home or business should be handled as soon as possible to avoid additional damage to more areas. If there is standing water, and the first thing you will want to do is extract! Failing to extract water and fixing the damages can lead to growth of bacteria and mold spores around the affected parts of your structure. This may also invite insects and pests into your home or place of business. Because it is important to act quickly, SERVPRO of Western Lancaster is always Here to Help and assist you in regaining control of these pesky situations!

Water Extraction Procedure

It is necessary that all water is removed before we can properly mitigate and dry affected areas. Extraction is key because water must be removed, and the area must be completely dried before we are able to repair the damage and restore your belongings. When you're in a pinch call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster; our water extractors go above and beyond typical extraction devices such as household wet/dry vacuums.

We're Here to Help!

For fast and effective services, contact SERVPRO of Western Lancaster at (717)-665-1270. SERVPRO of Western Lancaster is faster to any size disaster and is a 24/7 emergency service provider. At SERVPRO of Western Lancaster, we are always Here to Help!

Water Damage and Associated Risks

3/4/2021 (Permalink)

Treat water damage quickly to prevent further damage!

Throughout the United States, majority of homes are vulnerable to the possibility of water damage. Water damage can be caused by broken pipes, flooding, roof leaks, etc. Though water damage is common, most homeowners do not realize that just one inch of standing water in a home can cost thousands of dollars. Beyond what homeowners can see, they need to be mindful of additional water/moisture related threats such as mold or even termites! Though not talked about often in water restoration, termites are a problem that most homeowners don’t even consider when discovering a water loss. 

ACT QUICKLY!

Because wood is a highly porous material that rapidly absorbs and retains moisture, it is important to act quickly when you discover water damage. If not treated and managed in a timely manner, homeowners may face additional damage in the form of mold, mildew, or wood rot! Not only are these issues unsightly, but mold and mildew can affect your safety and cause health effects!

DID YOU SAY TERMITES?

Another issue with water damage is that it can attract termites. Yes, termites! These little pests prefer living in water-damaged wood as they need to be surrounded by moisture. Typically, termites live underground in cool, damp environments. Naturally, water-damaged wood makes a excellent replacement home for these little critters. Termites silently destroy homes, eating away at wooden infrastructure from the inside out. As they are so quiet, most homeowners have no knowledge that termites are present until they have caused tens of thousands of dollars of damage to the house!

Never fear, there are a few ways that you can identify the presence of termites in your home!

  1. Check the caulking around your shower/bathtub to see if there is any exposed damp wood. If the wood is marked it could mean that you have termites in your home.
  2. Check any wooden frames around the areas that were affected by water. Again, if there are markings, you may have termites.
  3. Check any areas that wood was affected by water and look for bite marks (little holes throughout the wood)
  4. Call a professional exterminator to assess the area.

THE TAKEAWAY

Water damage can cause a lot of problems in the home, even if it is only a small amount of water. For this reason, it is important to make sure that any damp wood in your home is properly dried out if you experience any water loss. This will reduce your likelihood of mold growth and termite infestation. If you have experienced water damage, call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County at 717-665-1270! We are water restoration professionals that are faster to any size disaster!

Six Signs that Water Damage May Be Affecting Your Home

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Call the professionals to help with your water damage mitigation!

Water damage may be fairly simple to spot if you are a hands-on homeowner that fixes and repairs issues as they arise. The problem with water damage to foundations is that you can't see the damage that is occurring, therefore it can easily be overlooked.

Nevertheless, the key to minimizing the extent of the damage is always to identify and address it as soon as possible.

How are you supposed to repair the issue if you don’t know that there is water damage in the first place?

Luckily for you, SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County is here to help you identify whether or not your structure is being impacted by water damage. Below, there are six (6) signs and symptoms to keep your eyes on:

Symptom One: Water Below Ground

If you are routinely dealing with standing water in your basement, you are likely  getting a little stressed out. As a consolation, however, it does mean that you can be reasonably sure of a foundation problem. Standing water only accumulates and sits in a basement if drainage systems are not functioning properly.

Symptom Two: Overly Damp Soil

If you speculate that there could be an issue with moisture, take a look at the soil around the foundations of the property. If it is unusually wet (even after days without rain), there is a good chance that groundwater is seeping into the foundation.

Symptom Three: Water in the Crawlspace

Standing water or condensation and moisture building up within a crawlspace is a pretty good sign that something is wrong with the foundation, circulation of air, lack of adequate insulation, or burst pipe. If it is too damp in this area, the quality of the air in your house can decline, and it may give off a musty odor.

Symptom Four: Sagging and Bowing Floors

A lot of homeowners walk up and down uneven floors for years before they spot a problem. You can test the level of your own with nothing more than a small rubber ball. Unless you know of a reason the foundation is or could be unlevel and not caused by water damage, imbalances should be checked out immediately. They can indicate soil erosion due to water.

Symptom Five: Slimy Patches Outside

When the water from rains and storms is draining away from the property in a secure and efficient manner, it never spends enough time close to the building to have a lasting impact. On the other hand, if groundwater is pooling, you may be able to spot slimy and moldy patches on the outer walls of your home.

Symptom Six: Mal-functioning Doorframes or windows

This might sound like a surprising sign, but if your doorframes used to open and close correctly, but have recently started to stick, the problem could be moisture related. It may be a sign that the doorframes have begun to warp, from excessive water absorption.

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Call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County for any unwanted water damaging situations that may occur on your property. We are experts in water removal, cleanup, and water damage restoration. We will recondition your home "Like it never even happened."

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We’re Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

As leaders in the water damage industry, SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County has advanced expertise and training, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. Call us 24/7 for help at (717) 665-1270

The 6-Steps of Water Remediation

7/1/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO is faster to any size disaster!

6-Step Process for Water Remediation

A water leak can quickly cause a significant amount of damage to your residential or commercial property. This is especially true if the leak has gone undetected for a long period of time. If you have water damage, you need fast and dependable service to get the mess cleaned up! That's where SERVPRO comes in... Below is our 6-step process for water remediation:

Step 1 - Contact:
If you know the contact information for your local SERVPRO, contact them first! If you don't know which SERVPRO is closest, contact SERVPRO's corporate hotline; they connect you to a local franchise that can assist you in a timely manner. During the initial contact, our team gathers information about the type and extent of the damage that has occurred.

Step 2 - Assessment:
The SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County team arrives within four hours of the initial call. Once there, they assess the damage to the property. Water restoration specialists survey the building to determine what repairs need to be made.

Step 3 - Extraction:
Before any repairs can begin, all standing water and non-restorable materials must be removed. Our highly trained technicians use industrial pumps to extract water quickly. Then they remove drenched drywall, insulation, carpet, carpet padding, tiles, and other materials that cannot be salvaged.

Step 4 - Drying:
If the source of the water damage has been a problem for an extended period of time, it has probably made the affected area very moist or wet. Not only does every surface that remains have to be dried thoroughly, but the humidity levels in the air itself need to be returned to an acceptable level. We place commercial-grade dehumidifiers, air movers, and other drying equipment to dry the area. It is important that commercial-grade equipment be used because standard dehumidifiers and fans will likely not have the capacity to remove the correct amount of moisture.

Step 5 - Sanitizing:
Often, a leaking water sources does more than just cause water damage. The water it expels may become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microbes. Therefore, every inch of the affected area must be sanitized before rebuilding can begin. We use a safe anti-microbial spray to sanitize the area!

Step 6 - Restoration:
After everything is clean and dry, the mitigation and remediation side of the job is done! SERVPRO of Western Lancaster has an in-house Rebuild Team! Our Rebuild Technicians restore your property "Like it never even happened.”
Water damage requires professional intervention. Even if a leak floods a large area, you can count on the experts to restore your property. SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County is fast to any size disaster!

Contact:

If you have experienced water damage, contact the professionals at SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County! Our phone number is 717-665-1270! We are a 24/7 emergency service provider, and are here to help!

24 Hour Emergency Water Damage Service

9/3/2019 (Permalink)

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

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help Call Today - 717-665-1270

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

What to Expect

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

Our SERVPRO Representative will ask several questions:

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

About SERVPRO of Western Lancaster

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

Six Signs Water Damage Is Ruining Your Foundation

1/17/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Lancaster County Can Be Restored by SERVPRO

Water damage may be fairly simple to spot, especially if you are a hands-on homeowner who fixes and repairs things as they crop up. The problem is that water damage to foundations is not an easy water damaging problem to identify.

Nevertheless, the key to minimizing the extent of the damage is always to spot it quickly and address it as soon as possible. How are you supposed to achieve this if you don’t know that there is water damage in the first place? This guide, provided by SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County, to some of the most common symptoms of water damage within foundations will help you spot any problem areas.

Symptom One: Water Below Ground

If you are routinely dealing with standing water in the basement, you are probably getting a little stressed out. As a consolation, however, it does mean that you can be reasonably sure of a foundation problem. Standing water only accumulates and sits in a basement if drainage systems are not functioning properly.

Symptom Two: Overly Damp Soil

If you speculate that there could be an issue with moisture, take a look at the soil around the foundations of the property. If it is unusually wet (even after days without rain), there is a good chance that groundwater is seeping into the foundation.

Symptom Three: Water in the Crawlspace

Standing water or condensation and moisture building up within a crawlspace is a pretty good sign that something is wrong with the foundation, circulation of air, lack of adequate insulation, or burst pipe. If it is too damp in this area, the quality of the air in your house can decline, and it may give off a musty odor.

Symptom Four: Sagging and Bowing Floors

A lot of homeowners walk up and down uneven floors for years before they spot a problem. You can test the level of your own with nothing more than a small rubber ball. Unless you know of a reason the foundation is or could be unlevel and not caused by water damage, imbalances should be checked out immediately. They can indicate soil erosion due to water.

Symptom Five: Slimy Patches Outside

When the water from rains and storms is draining away from the property in a secure and efficient manner, it never spends enough time close to the building to have a lasting impact. On the other hand, if groundwater is pooling, you may be able to spot slimy and moldy patches on the outer walls of your home.

Symptom Six: Mal-functioning Doorframes or windows

This might sound like a surprising sign, but if your doorframes used to open and close correctly, but have recently started to stick, the problem could be moisture related. It may be a sign that the doorframes have begun to warp, from excessive water absorption.

Call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County for any unwanted water damaging situations that may occur on your property. We are experts in water removal, cleanup, and water damage restoration. We will recondition your home "Like it never even happened."

We’re Highly Trained Water Damage Specialists

As leaders in the water damage industry, SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County has advanced expertise and training, not to mention a tremendous amount of hands-on experience. Call us 24/7 for help at (717) 665-1270

All You Need to Know About Flood Damage

1/3/2019 (Permalink)

There are different types of flooding that a customer needs to be aware of. A flash flood is common in any area and can happen due to inclement weather. A flood can damage a customer’s property but here at SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County our goal is to prevent the damage from happening and restoring the destruction “Like it never even happened." There is flood insurance that a customer can purchase, whether you are renting a home, a business owner or homeowner. A customer can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP. There are communities that offer the NFIP that can reduce a customer’s cost of flood damage. You can also refer to your local insurance agent for questions regarding flood damage. 

Floods can be devastating to any home or business. Having the peace of mind that can come from flood insurance, will ease the burden, in the event you do have flood damage at your residence or place of business.

Call SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County at 717-665-1270

Basement Floods, Damages Appliances

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

Water heater fallen over from 4ft water flood.

When a Homeowner arrives home from a vacation they don't expect 4 foot of water in their basement and floating appliances. Local fire department pumped out majority of the water and then we arrived to finish pumping out and then the dry out. Based on the level of moisture and the temperatures, this home took a longer dry out of 5 days.

It's important when leaving your home for periods of time to shut off your main water valve. In winter months keep your heat at a good temperature to keep your pipes warm. Have a neighbor, family member or good friend frequently check on your home. But if this happens to you, you can count on SERVPRO of Western Lancaster County to be there for you!

Pipe Bursts ? Water damage What you should know ? Lancaster

11/30/2017 (Permalink)

According to Insure.com, water damage is among the most common causes of homeowners' insurance claims--and one of the biggest sources of confusion. If a flooding river inundates your home, your insurance is unlikely to cover the damage. But if the flood comes from within the home itself, the result of a burst pipe, you can breathe easier: Your policy probably will cover the damage.

In general, water damage cleanup and dry out from a burst pipe inside your home will be covered by a standard homeowners' insurance policy. If an outside pipe bursts and causes damage, that should be covered, too, though you must be able to demonstrate that the damage did indeed come from the burst pipe. If the insurer concludes that poor drainage--a non-covered maintenance problem--was the real culprit, your claim may be denied.