Water Damage Restoration Equipment Used by the Pros, and Why You Need to Call Them

9/11/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage restoration equipment loaded in warehouse.

You just called SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva. A disaster has struck you and your home or office. The experts from our team are on their way to mitigate the disaster. They show up in the big green trucks and in moments are assessing the damage to your property. Popping open the back of the truck they start to unload equipment, but what are they unloading? Why is it important? Here’s a list of the usual things you’ll see brought into a property once the team starts to work.

• Air Mover and/or Axial Fan: Professional grade air movers and axial fans produce more air movement than a standard household fan. The higher volume of air being moved increases the rate of evaporation, helping to dry the structure as quickly as possible.
• Dehumidifier: A dehumidifier removes water vapor from the air by condensing it out against refrigerated fins. The water is stored and then periodically purged from the machine by use of plastic tubing. The tubing will generally be run so that it dumps water down a drain, such as a bath tub or sink, or sometimes out a window or door. Professional dehumidifiers pull much more vapor from the air than a household dehumidifier. In this way they are generally more efficient.
• Air Scrubber: An air scrubber might be used if your loss is a result of water classified as grey or black, which means that it came from a contaminated source or through building materials. These machines remove airborne particulates by trapping them in HEPA filters. Air Scrubbers are also used in cases where a customer has a health condition that requires the air quality be monitored.
• Specialty Drying Equipment: There are a variety of different tools available to our technicians for use in specialty circumstances. For instance, a floor drying mat system allows the technician to create a vacuum system for removing moisture from hardwood floors, in order to try to dry them in place. This helps the floor dry faster, and generally gives us a better chance of saving the hardwood flooring.

There are of course many other tools you may well see if the situation requires them. The onsite SERVPRO technicians can and will explain any of the tools they use for the job. So when in doubt ask them!

What to do When Water Damage Occurs: Simple Steps Laid Out by SERVPRO Experts

8/25/2023 (Permalink)

After experiencing water damage, experts arrive to assess the damage.

Water damage can wreak havoc on our homes and properties, causing immense destruction and financial burden. It is imperative to have a clear understanding of water damage and how to mitigate its effects. This essay aims to highlight a few essential tips for dealing with water damage effectively.

Firstly, the most crucial step in water damage prevention is to identify and fix any leaks or plumbing issues promptly. Regularly inspecting your plumbing system and ensuring proper maintenance can help prevent water damage before it even occurs. Additionally, properly insulating pipes in colder climates can prevent them from freezing and bursting, a common cause of water damage.

Secondly, it is essential to be aware of potential warning signs of water damage. Stains on walls or ceilings, a musty odor, or warped flooring are all indicators that water damage may be present. By recognizing these signs early on, one can take immediate action to minimize further damage.

In the case of water damage occurring, acting promptly is crucial. The first step is to turn off the main water source to prevent further flooding. Additionally, shutting off electricity in affected areas is essential for safety reasons. Contacting SERVPRO water damage experts immediately, to assess the situation and initiate the necessary cleanup and repairs, is always the best protocol. 

Finally, homeowners should consider obtaining insurance coverage for water damage. This will provide financial protection in the event of a water-related disaster, ensuring that the costs of repairs and restoration are mitigated.

In conclusion, being proactive in preventing water damage, staying vigilant for warning signs, acting promptly in case of water damage, and having appropriate insurance coverage are essential tips for dealing effectively with water damage. By following these tips, individuals can minimize the impact of water damage on their properties, both financially and structurally.

We hope that our communities stay safe this hurricane season, but if you need us we are Here to Help!

SERVPRO of Apopka Wekiva is proud to serve Central Florida cities like Orlando, Wekiva Springs, Apopka, Lockhart, Zellwood and many more. 

Water Damage Experts Share Insight on the Equipment Used on Site

8/7/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage equipment being inventoried and organized for upcoming emergency calls.

You just called SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva. A disaster has struck you and your home or office. The crews from SERVPRO are on their way to mitigate the disaster. They show up in the big green trucks and in moments are assessing the damage to your property. Popping open the back of the truck they start to unload equipment, but what are they unloading? Why is it important? Here’s a list of the usual things you’ll see brought into a property once the team starts to work.

• Air Mover and/or Axial Fan: Professional grade air movers and axial fans produce more air movement than a standard household fan. The higher volume of air being moved increases the rate of evaporation, helping to dry the structure as quickly as possible.
• Dehumidifier: A dehumidifier removes water vapor from the air by condensing it out against refrigerated fins. The water is stored and then periodically purged from the machine by use of plastic tubing. The tubing will generally be run so that it dumps water down a drain, such as a bath tub or sink, or sometimes out a window or door. Professional dehumidifiers pull much more vapor from the air than a household dehumidifier. In this way they are generally more efficient.
• Air Scrubber: An air scrubber might be used if your loss is a result of water classified as grey or black, which means that it came from a contaminated source or through building materials. These machines remove airborne particulates by trapping them in HEPA filters. Air Scrubbers are also used in cases where a customer has a health condition that requires the air quality be monitored.
• Specialty Drying Equipment: There are a variety of different tools available to our technicians for use in specialty circumstances. For instance, a floor drying mat system allows the technician to create a vacuum system for removing moisture from hardwood floors, in order to try to dry them in place. This helps the floor dry faster, and generally gives us a better chance of saving the hardwood flooring.

There are of course many other tools you may well see if the situation requires them. The onsite SERVPRO technicians can and will explain any of the tools they use for the job. So when in doubt ask them!

Storm Damage Prevention: Tips From SERVPRO Experts

7/26/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO storm damage crews are dispatched to assess multiple, affected homes after storms roll through in Orlando.

Being told that you have a major storm coming your way is hard enough, but now you have to figure out the best way to try and keep both your residential or commercial building from any sort of damage or loss. Our team has a saying, “you can never plan for a storm, but you can plan to be ready for it.” Let’s say that there is going to be a storm tomorrow. Are you prepared for whatever may happen? If your answer is no, then it is better that you don’t wait until you hear that the hurricane or thunderstorm of the century is coming, because by then it may be too late. Here are some things to make sure you check off of your checklist for your home:

• Remove any branches or trees adjacent to your building that could potentially fall and damage it.
• Sandbag any area that is subject to flooding
• Relocate any valuable or fragile possessions
• Secure all utilities including water heaters, gas tanks, and heaters and if necessary, raise them to higher locations to avoid water damage
• Invest in and install shutters or plywood in order to protect windows and doors from wind-born debris
• Have the roof of your building or home evaluated to ensure it can withstand a storm
• Turn off propane tanks
• Ensure a water supply for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.

Preparing your business is a little different, but these tips can help:

• Carefully assess how your company functions, both internally and externally, to determine which staff, materials, procedures and equipment are absolutely necessary to keep the business operating.
• Identify operations critical to survival and recovery.
• Plan what you will do if your building is not accessible. Can you run your business from a different location or from your home? Can you develop a relationship with other local businesses to use their facilities if a disaster makes your location unusable?

We know that storms and the damage that comes with them are inevitable at times. You can rest assured that SERVPRO of Apopka/Wekiva will be available to assist you with your home or business in the event of any size disaster.

Fire Damgage in Florida: Prevention and Restoration From the Experts

6/14/2023 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Orlando causes homeowner to reach out to SERVPRO team for restoration.

Fire damage has increasingly become a major concern for residents in Florida. The state's tropical climate and vast natural areas make it susceptible to wildfires, which can cause significant damage to homes, businesses, and other structures. The effects of fire damage can be devastating, with long-term implications on the affected individuals and communities.

The aftermath of fire damage in Florida can be overwhelming both emotionally and financially. The destruction of property, homes, and other structures means the loss of personal belongings, memories, and even lives. The economic impact of fire damage on businesses and the community at large can be devastating. The total cost of fire damage in Florida can run into millions of dollars, and the financial burden cannot be underestimated.

Wildfires can have a significant impact on the environment and wildlife in Florida. Forests, wetlands, and other natural habitats are particularly vulnerable to the effects of wildfires. The loss of vegetation can lead to soil erosion and the degradation of water quality, leading to long-term environmental effects just as damaging as the initial fire.

Prevention is the most effective way to mitigate the negative impacts of fire damage in Florida. It is essential to follow fire prevention guidelines, such as observing burn bans and restrictions, using caution when lighting fires outdoors, and ensuring that homes and structures are adequately protected. Early detection and prompt response to fire outbreaks are crucial in minimizing the spread and damage done by wildfires.

In conclusion, fire damage has a considerable impact on individuals, businesses, and the environment in Florida. It is essential to undertake measures and precautions to prevent wildfires and address outbreaks promptly. Furthermore, the public should be continually educated on fire safety, and the government should invest in funding research on fire prevention, detection, and response to preserve the state's natural heritage and reduce loss and damage to the citizenry.

Our fire damage restoration experts are trained in fire aftermath and prevention. We are a total solution company-meaning we are always prepared to take you from A to Z..

Water Removal and Extraction Pulls Water Out When Storms Push Water into Your Orlando Home

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Restoration experts dry out water damage after heavy rain in Orlando home.

After a storm, some homeowners in Orlando notice that their floors are damp or contain puddles near doorways. Property owners need to remove this water as quickly as possible. Even small amounts of water can cause decay in floorboards and make them excessively weak. Homeowners can often clean these small messes up without help.  

When rain pushes larger volumes of water into your Orlando area home, water removal and extraction teams get things dry again quickly and efficiently. Because rainwater can enter through any vulnerable area of your home, it is essential to know that SERVPRO's equipment can access any area of your home.  

A small section of roof with loosened shingles can let the water come in and soak your home from top to bottom. Gutters that contain clogged areas can direct water up against your home where it slowly seeps inside. Downspouts can cause water to flow up against your slab foundation instead of away from your house.  

When drains outside of your home do not let water flow through them quickly enough, stormwater can back up into your home. Water from this location can contain high levels of contamination. SERVPRO technicians arrive ready to handle such disasters and make your home safe again. We use personal protective equipment (PPE) during such work to prevent exposure to things that can cause health effects.  

We pull the water that invaded your home out with either a pump on our truck in our Green Fleet or with smaller extraction units. These quickly pull water up and out of flooring, including wooden floors. When some floors have tighter installations, we pull some of the planks up so our Injectidry mats can more easily function. These units direct heat down, so evaporation rates significantly increase while the extraction components pull moisture out of the air.  

Water can flow smoothly into spaces between walls and then remain there. Because there is no pressure behind this water, it does not drain away on its own. SERVPRO technicians drill minor holes in the walls behind baseboards to allow this water to flow out and then replace the baseboard. We are cautious when doing this and use rubber mats to eliminate any marring of the wall's surface during handling. We then use another type of Injectidry tubing to air out the interior of the wall.

Regardless of how stormy weather drenches the interior of your Forest City, Eatonville, or Tangerine home, SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva can get things dry and “Like it never even happened.” Call us at (407) 788-3124 whenever you need water removal and extraction services to protect your residence.

Click here for information about Gatorland.

Water Damage Solutions for Your Home and Business

4/25/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage call for SERVPRO experts to come in and dry out structure.

Businesses throughout the Orlando area are constantly affected by the environments around them. The elements can wreak havoc on the interior of businesses under the best circumstances. Plumbing malfunctions, damage to the structure, or the risk of fire can put a dent in your business plans for the day and cost you a lot of money. Then there are the lingering hazards that now can grow from these damages.

Let’s talk about carpet. Standing water and carpets just do not mix. The fabric can be destroyed, it can accelerate the growth of mold and fungi and it can trap hazards within the fibers as the water evaporates or recedes. If carpets are left untreated you may have to replace all the carpet, and not to mention what it will do to the floor below. Water in the floor, depending on the type of floor can warp, weaken, or allow for a collapse to occur more frequently.

Water in or on walls can knock sections of the building out of commission. If water happens to settle in the walls it will damage the fibers of the wall and create a breeding ground for microbial growth. Mold and fungi love warm, dark, wet environments to breed in. Opening up the walls and getting a dehumidifier near the areas to help dry the water keeps the problem from spreading.

Furniture and chairs are usually multi problem areas. Desks often made of wood soak up water. Desks are usually covered in papers and important items which water often destroys if left untreated. SERVPRO can salvage your papers using a freeze dry method of extracting water. Placing fans and dehumidifiers near water soaked desks can keep you from replacing them. Desk chairs which are often fiber based exterior with soft cushion material inside soak up water and anything in the water. Again all these normal office pieces of furniture can be salvaged if time and skill are used to the utmost.

Keep in mind, time plus water equals money. The longer you wait, the longer the water soaks in and does damage, the more it costs you in the end.

Fire Damage Restoration Starts with SERVPRO

4/10/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO fire damage restoration experts are called in to service a residential home.

SERVPRO is the leading professional cleaning and restoration company in the United State. We that specializes in handling fire damage- following a systematic process to clean and restore properties affected by fire damage. Here's an overview of our fire damage process:

1. 24-Hour Emergency Contact: Our experts offer a 24/7 emergency response service to enable quick action in the unfortunate event of a fire. Prompt response is crucial to minimizing damage and starting the recovery process as soon as possible. Once contacted, we will ask a series of questions to understand the scope of the damage and determine the required resources.

2. Inspection and Fire Damage Assessment: Our team will arrive at the site to assess the extent of the fire damage. This step allows them to formulate an action plan tailored to your property's specific needs, including determining the type and extent of cleaning, restoration, and odor removal required.

3. Immediate Board-Up and Roof-Tarp Service: To secure the property and prevent further damage, SERVPRO can provide board-up services for damaged windows, doors, or walls, as well as tarp services for damaged roofs.

4. Water Removal and Drying (if necessary): If water damage is present from firefighting efforts, our restoration experts will remove the excess water and employ a combination of air movers and dehumidifiers to dry the affected areas thoroughly.

5. Removal of Smoke and Soot: Fire damage often results in pervasive smoke and soot. Our professionals use specialized cleaning methods, equipment, and products to remove smoke and soot residue from various surfaces, materials, and belongings, minimizing the risk of further damage.

6. Cleaning and Sanitizing: The SERVPRO team will clean, sanitize, and disinfect all affected personal belongings and property to remove any lingering odors, smoke residues, or other contaminants. Our expertise in odor removal techniques and air purification processes is essential to restore the property to a pre-fire condition.

7. Restoration: This final step in the process involves restoring the property to its pre-fire condition. This may include minor repairs, such as replacing drywall, painting, and installing new carpet, or more significant renovations, such as reconstructing entire areas of the property.

SERVPRO’s comprehensive fire damage process is designed to help property owners recover from the devastating effects of a fire quickly and efficiently. By using their expertise, specialized equipment, and advanced cleaning techniques, we help restore properties to a pre-fire condition, allowing owners to resume their normal lives.

What You Need to Know About Power Supply After a Water Damage Emergency.

3/27/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage serviced after a call came in to SERVPRO water damage restoration experts.

We know how much power it takes for your Orlando water clean up.

Small water cleanup projects may require one or two air movers and a single dehumidifier. Larger projects may require several water extractors, many air movers and at least one dehumidifier in each room in addition to running the air conditioning in the home. The power requirements for multiple pieces of equipment often exceeds the power capabilities of local electrical circuits in the home or commercial space.

SERVPRO in Orlando provides water cleanup services for all types of situations and is often confronted with insufficient electrical power. Either the existing circuits cannot provide sufficient power or the electrical power may even be shut off to the job site. Unless there is external power available to run various pieces of equipment, drying cannot take place, and mold growth can set in.

How Much Power is Needed, and What Is the Cost?

One of the tasks of the crew chief is to calculate how much electrical power is needed and who can provide electrical power. Before making a decision, the crew chief evaluates how many air movers and dehumidifiers are needed to dry the space properly. Calculations can quickly be completed to determine the total power requirements and the best solution to provide sufficient electrical power. The crew chief can also quickly calculate the cost.

Providing External Power

Depending on the situation, SERVPRO may provide additional extension cords to connect to other electrical circuits in unaffected areas of the job. Alternately the crew chief may contact the local utility to make arrangements to provide temporary power to the job location. The team may also decide that portable generators should be brought in to provide power. These generators provide power to run all of the equipment needed to remove moisture and lower the humidity after a water leak of some kind.

We also are licensed (General Contractor License #: CBC1258985, Mold Remediation #: MRSR868) to provide restoration services for full structural damage repair and rebuild, "Like it never even happened." We can provide complete services for water cleanup jobs in the Orlando and surrounding area.

Call SERVPRO of Apopka - Wekiva at (407) 788-3124 for 24/7 service. We proudly serve University Park, Lockhart, Forest City, and surrounding areas. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.

To learn more about Orlando, click here.

From Carpets to Catastrophes We are Here to Help

1/7/2022 (Permalink)

There are so many decisions to be made when you are a home or business owner. Some are more critical than others, like what to do when disaster strikes. Most people know that SERVPRO offers 24 hour emergency service for water and fire damage, but we also offer many other services you may find helpful.

Here is a short list of services you can call us for:

• Carpet, Hard Floor and Upholstery Cleaning
• Odor Identification and Deodorization
• Stain Removal
• Contents Claim Inventory Service
• Crime Scene, Biohazard and Vandalism
• Water Damage Restoration
• Mold Remediation
• Fire, Smoke, and Soot Restoration

We know that time is a precious commodity when you need help so our team is available 24 hours a day. You can reach us at 407-788-3124. From Carpets to Catastrophes SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva is here to make it “Like it never even happened.”