Expert Water Damage Repair and Restoration in Apopka-Wekiva

10/2/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage is a homeowner's worst nightmare. Whether due to a burst pipe, heavy rain, or unexpected flooding, the aftermath can be devastating. In Apopka-Wekiva, Florida, residents understand this all too well. Fortunately, SERVPRO® offers comprehensive water damage repair and restoration services to address these emergencies promptly and efficiently.

Immediate Response Time

Why Quick Action is Crucial

When it comes to water damage, time is of the essence. The longer water sits, the more extensive the damage becomes. Immediate attention is required to prevent:

• Structural damage
• Mold growth
• Loss of personal belongings

SERVPRO ensures a quick response time, arriving at your location within hours to begin the water damage repair and remediation process.

Comprehensive Water Damage Services

Inspection and Assessment

The first step in the water damage restoration process is a thorough inspection. SERVPRO’s team will assess the extent of the damage and develop a strategic plan tailored to your specific needs. This includes identifying:

• Source of the water intrusion
• Severity of damage
• Areas affected

Water Removal and Extraction

Removing standing water is critical to prevent further deterioration. SERVPRO uses advanced equipment such as:

• Submersible pumps
• Industrial wet/dry vacuums

This ensures that both visible and hidden water is efficiently extracted from your property.

Drying and Dehumidification

Once the water is removed, the drying and dehumidification process begins. High-tech equipment like air movers and dehumidifiers are used to:

• Eliminate moisture from hard-to-reach areas
• Prevent mold growth
• Protect structural integrity

Cleaning and Sanitizing

After drying, affected items and surfaces require cleaning and sanitizing. SERVPRO uses specialized products and techniques to:

• Remove contaminants
• Deodorize spaces
• Ensure a hygienic environment

Restoration and Repair

The final step is the restoration process, which can include minor repairs like replacing drywall or major reconstruction. SERVPRO ensures your home returns to its pre-damage condition, offering services such as:

• Drywall installation
• Flooring repair or replacement
• Painting and electrical work

Why Choose SERVPRO for Water Damage Repair and Restoration?

Experienced and Certified Technicians

SERVPRO’s team of experts is IICRC-certified (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification). This means they are trained in the latest techniques for water damage repair and restoration.

Advanced Technology and Equipment

Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment ensures that services are performed efficiently and effectively. From moisture meters to infrared cameras, SERVPRO has the tools to:

• Detect hidden water damage
• Track moisture levels
• Provide comprehensive restoration

Customer-Centric Approach

SERVPRO prioritizes customer satisfaction. Their professionals communicate every step of the process, ensuring transparency and peace of mind during a stressful time.

Insurance Liaison

Navigating insurance claims can be complicated. SERVPRO offers assistance with this process, helping you understand:

• Coverage options
• Required documentation
• Claim settlement procedures

Preventative Tips to Avoid Future Water Damage

Regular Maintenance Checks

Routine inspections can prevent potential water damage issues. Be sure to:

• Check for leaks in plumbing
• Inspect roof for missing shingles or cracks
• Ensure appliances are functioning properly

Install Water Detection Devices

Consider installing water detection alarms in vulnerable areas such as basements and kitchens. These devices alert you at the first sign of trouble, providing an opportunity for early intervention.

Maintain Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can cause rainwater to back up, leading to leaks and potential water damage. Regular cleaning ensures proper water flow away from your property.

Conclusion: Trust SERVPRO for Your Water Damage Needs

In the unfortunate event of water damage in Apopka-Wekiva, swift and professional action is key to mitigating damage and restoring your home. SERVPRO offers comprehensive water damage repair and restoration services, backed by experienced technicians, advanced technology, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

By choosing SERVPRO, you are ensuring quick, effective, and thorough solutions, giving you peace of mind and a restored home. Don't wait if disaster strikes—contact SERVPRO for all your water damage repair and water damage restoration needs.

The Ultimate Guide to Water Damage in Apopka-Wekiva, Orlando

6/26/2024 (Permalink)

Understanding Water Damage: What it Is and Its Impact

Water damage is one of the most prevalent and costly problems homeowners can face. From minor leaks to catastrophic flooding, water damage can wreak havoc on your property, leading to structural damage, mold growth, and health issues. For residents in Apopka-Wekiva, Orlando, understanding the nature of water damage, its causes, and the immediate steps to take can save both time and money.

Common Causes of Water Damage in Apopka-Wekiva, Orlando

Water damage can stem from a variety of sources. Here are some of the most common culprits:

• Natural Disasters: Heavy rain, hurricanes, and floods can cause significant water damage. Apopka-Wekiva, being a part of Orlando, is no stranger to such weather events.
• Plumbing Issues: Leaking or burst pipes, faulty water heaters, and overflowing sinks or toilets can lead to water damage within the home.
• Roof Leaks: Damaged or missing shingles can allow water to seep into your home, causing damage to the attic and ceilings.
• Appliance Malfunctions: Washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators can all fail and cause water leakage.

Immediate Steps to Take When Facing Water Damage

When water damage strikes, acting quickly is crucial to minimize the impact:

1. Ensure Safety First: If the water damage is severe, ensure everyone is safe. This might mean evacuating the home and seeking temporary shelter.
2. Stop the Water Source: If possible, locate and shut off the source of water to prevent further damage. This might involve turning off the main water supply or fixing a leaking appliance.
3. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the affected areas. This documentation will be useful for your insurance claims.
4. Call a Professional: Contact a trusted water damage restoration service in Apopka-Wekiva, Orlando, like SERVPRO®, to handle the cleanup and repairs.

Why Choose SERVPRO Apopka-Wekiva for Water Damage Restoration?

SERVPRO Apopka-Wekiva Orlando is a leading provider of water damage restoration services. Here’s why they stand out in the industry:

• Quick Response Time: They understand the urgency of water damage situations and provide 24/7 emergency services.
• Advanced Equipment: Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and technology, SERVPRO can efficiently remove water and thoroughly dry affected areas.
• Skilled Technicians: Their team comprises certified professionals skilled in water damage restoration, ensuring your property is restored to its pre-damage state.
• Comprehensive Services: From water extraction and drying to mold remediation and reconstruction, they offer a full spectrum of restoration services.

Preventing Water Damage in Apopka-Wekiva, Orlando

While it's not always possible to prevent water damage, these proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk:

• Regular Inspections: Routinely check your home’s plumbing, roof, and appliances for signs of leaks or wear and tear.
• Maintain Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure they are clean and in good condition to direct water away from your home.
• Install a Sump Pump: For homes with basements, a sump pump can help manage excess water and prevent flooding.
• Upgrade Appliances: Invest in high-quality appliances and consider water leak detectors that alert you to problems before they worsen.
• Seal Windows and Doors: Properly sealed windows and doors prevent water from entering your home during storms.

The Health Risks of Ignoring Water Damage

Ignoring water damage can lead to a host of problems, particularly concerning mold growth. Mold can begin to develop within 24-48 hours of water exposure and can cause:

• Respiratory Issues: Mold spores can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, and asthma attacks.
• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and skin rashes are common in mold-affected homes.
• Structural Damage: Mold can weaken the structural integrity of your home, leading to costly repairs.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Home from Water Damage

Water damage in Apopka-Wekiva, Orlando, is a serious concern, but with the right knowledge and swift action, you can mitigate its effects. Remember, the key steps involve acting quickly, documenting the damage, and contacting a professional restoration service like SERVPRO Apopka-Wekiva. Additionally, preventive measures can save you from future headaches and health risks. By staying vigilant and prepared, you can keep your home safe and sound even in the face of unexpected water damage.

For expert help in managing water damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to SERVPRO Apopka-Wekiva Orlando. Their expertise and commitment will ensure your home is restored efficiently and effectively.

How Winter Weather in Apopka Can Lead to Water Damage

1/21/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO team member repairing bathroom water damage

Title: How Winter Weather in Apopka Can Lead to Water Damage

Apopka, Florida, may not experience harsh winters like some other regions, but it's essential to be aware of how winter weather can lead to water damage in your home. Even milder winters can bring unexpected cold snaps that pose risks to your property. Here's how winter weather in Apopka can potentially result in water damage and what you can do to prevent it.

Understanding the Risks: While Apopka generally enjoys a warm climate, occasional cold weather can occur. When temperatures drop below freezing, there's a risk of frozen pipes, which can lead to significant water damage if not addressed promptly.

Common Causes of Water Damage During Winter:

1. Frozen Pipes: When the temperature drops, exposed or poorly insulated pipes can freeze and burst. This can happen both inside and outside your home.

2. Roof Leaks: While Apopka doesn't see heavy snowfall, rainfall is possible year-round. Winter rains can expose vulnerabilities in your roof, leading to leaks and potential water damage.

3. Gutter Issues: Leaves and debris can accumulate in your gutters during the fall, preventing proper drainage. When combined with winter rain, clogged gutters can lead to water overflowing and infiltrating your home.

Preventive Measures to Protect Your Home:

1. Insulate Pipes: Ensure that pipes in unheated or exposed areas, such as attics or crawl spaces, are adequately insulated. This helps prevent freezing and potential bursts.

2. Seal Leaks: Check for any gaps or cracks in your home's exterior, including doors, windows, and the roof. Seal these openings to keep cold air and moisture out.

3. Clean Gutters: Regularly clean and maintain your gutters to ensure proper water flow away from your home. This reduces the risk of water infiltration.

4. Drip Faucets: On particularly cold nights, allow faucets to drip slightly. This keeps water moving within the pipes, reducing the chance of freezing.

What to Do If You Encounter Water Damage: If winter weather does lead to water damage in your Apopka home, taking swift action is essential:

1. Address the Source: If you discover a leak or burst pipe, turn off the water supply to prevent further damage.

2. Contact Professionals: Reach out to a water damage restoration company like SERVPRO® of Apopka-Wekiva. We have the expertise and equipment to mitigate water damage effectively.

3. Document the Damage: Take photos or videos of the affected areas for insurance purposes.

4. Begin Cleanup: Remove excess water using towels or a wet/dry vacuum. Properly ventilate the area to assist in drying.

While Apopka's winters are generally mild, it's crucial to be prepared for unexpected cold weather and the potential for water damage. By taking preventive measures and knowing how to respond, you can protect your home from winter-related water damage risks. If water damage does occur, SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva is here to assist with professional water damage restoration services.

For more information on the effects of water damage in your home Click Here

Dealing with a Ruptured Pipe: Why SERVPRO® is Your Water Damage Restoration Expert

1/5/2024 (Permalink)

SERVPRO equipment in use during a water damage restoration job

A ruptured pipe is a homeowner's nightmare that can lead to significant water damage if not handled promptly and effectively. When disaster strikes, you need a trusted partner like SERVPRO® to provide expert water damage restoration services. In this blog post, we'll explore how to handle a ruptured pipe situation and why calling SERVPRO® is the best decision.

Step 1: Immediate Action

1. Shut Off the Water: The first step is to turn off the main water supply to stop the flow of water. This will help prevent further flooding.

2. Electricity: If there's a risk of electrical hazards, turn off the power supply to the affected area to ensure safety.

Step 2: Safety First

3. Assess Safety: Safety is paramount. Ensure that it's safe to enter the affected area. Beware of slippery floors and potential structural damage.

4. Protect Yourself: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and boots, to avoid contact with contaminated water.

Step 3: Document the Damage

5. Take Photos: Document the damage by taking photos or videos for insurance purposes. This will help in the claims process.

Step 4: Mitigation and Cleanup

6. Remove Excess Water: Use buckets, towels, or a wet/dry vacuum to remove as much water as possible.

7. Begin Drying: Use fans and dehumidifiers to start the drying process. Proper ventilation helps prevent mold growth.

Step 5: Professional Assistance

8. Contact SERVPRO®: Even if you've taken immediate action, it's crucial to call SERVPRO® for professional water damage restoration services. Here's why:

   a. Advanced Equipment: SERVPRO® has state-of-the-art equipment for water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. Our technology ensures thorough and efficient drying.

   b. Experienced Technicians: Our certified technicians have the expertise to assess the extent of the damage, create a customized restoration plan, and execute it efficiently.

   c. Mold Prevention: SERVPRO® takes mold prevention seriously. Our quick response and thorough drying techniques help prevent mold growth, protecting your property and health.

   d. Insurance Coordination: We work closely with your insurance company to simplify the claims process, reducing stress during a challenging time.

Step 6: Prevent Future Ruptured Pipes

9. Regular Maintenance: Preventive measures, such as inspecting and maintaining your plumbing system regularly, can help reduce the risk of future ruptured pipes.

10. Insulation: Insulate exposed pipes to protect them from freezing temperatures, a common cause of pipe ruptures.

In conclusion, a ruptured pipe situation can be overwhelming, but with the right steps and professional assistance, you can mitigate the damage and restore your property to its pre-damage condition. SERVPRO® is your trusted partner for water damage restoration, with the expertise, equipment, and experience to handle even the most challenging situations. When water damage strikes, don't hesitate to call SERVPRO® for prompt and efficient restoration services. We're here to help you through the process and get your property back to normal.

For other information on water damage hazards Click Hear

Why Professional Help from SERVPRO® is Essential When Water Damage Strikes

12/28/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying equipment

Water damage can strike your home or workplace when you least expect it, and the consequences can be overwhelming. While it might be tempting to handle the situation on your own, seeking professional help from our experienced team at SERVPRO® is essential. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons why turning to SERVPRO® for water damage restoration is the right choice.

1. Rapid Response:

When water damage occurs, time is of the essence. Delaying the cleanup and restoration process can lead to further damage, including structural issues and mold growth. SERVPRO® offers a 24/7 emergency response, ensuring that our team is ready to act swiftly when you need us most. Our immediate response helps mitigate the damage and minimizes downtime.

2. Expertise and Experience:

Water damage restoration is a complex and specialized field. Our SERVPRO® technicians are highly trained and certified in water damage restoration techniques. With years of experience, we have the knowledge and skills to assess the extent of the damage, develop a comprehensive restoration plan, and execute it efficiently.

3. State-of-the-Art Equipment:

SERVPRO® invests in the latest technology and equipment for water damage restoration. Our advanced tools, including industrial-strength pumps, moisture meters, and drying systems, allow us to remove water, thoroughly dry affected areas, and restore your property to its pre-damage condition effectively.

4. Comprehensive Services:

Water damage restoration goes beyond just removing water. SERVPRO® offers a wide range of services, including water extraction, structural drying, mold remediation, content restoration, and more. We provide a comprehensive solution tailored to your specific needs.

5. Mold Prevention:

One of the most significant risks after water damage is mold growth. Our team takes proactive steps to prevent mold issues and can remediate existing mold problems. We ensure that your property is not only dry but also safe and mold-free.

6. Insurance Coordination:

Dealing with insurance claims can be daunting. SERVPRO® can assist in coordinating the insurance process, working with your insurance company to ensure a smoother and more efficient claims experience.

7. Peace of Mind:

By choosing SERVPRO® for water damage restoration, you gain peace of mind knowing that your property is in capable hands. We are committed to restoring your home or workplace and helping you get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Contact SERVPRO® for Water Damage Restoration:

When water damage strikes your home or workplace, don't attempt to handle it alone. Trust the professionals at SERVPRO® to provide expert water damage restoration services. We're here to assist you in your time of need, ensuring a thorough and efficient restoration process. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to request immediate assistance. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities.

For more information on flooding and water damage Click Here 

Safeguard Your Home: Proactive Maintenance to Prevent Water Damage

12/8/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO drying equipment

Water damage can be a homeowner's worst nightmare, causing structural issues and potential health risks. The good news is that you can prevent many water damage incidents by regularly maintaining your home and staying alert. In this blog post, SERVPRO® shares essential home maintenance tips to help you avoid common causes of water damage.

1. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clean:

• Regularly inspect and clear debris, leaves, and blockages from your gutters and downspouts. Ensuring they are in proper working condition directs rainwater away from your home's foundation, preventing overflow and water infiltration.

2. Roof Care Matters:

• Maintain your roof by checking for damaged or missing shingles on a consistent basis. Promptly address any issues to avoid roof leaks when it rains.

3. Seal Windows and Doors:

• Identify gaps and cracks around windows and doors and take steps to seal them using caulk and weatherstripping. This simple action helps prevent water from entering your home.

4. Pipe Insulation is Key:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces to prevent frozen pipes during winter. Burst pipes from freezing can result in significant water damage.

5. Appliance Checkup:

• Regularly inspect appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters for leaks, damaged hoses, or worn connections. Replace any faulty components or appliances promptly.

6. Plumbing Problems:

• Address plumbing issues like leaky faucets, running toilets, or damaged pipes as soon as you discover them to prevent ongoing water damage.

7. Landscaping and Drainage:

• Ensure proper grading around your home's foundation to avoid water pooling. Proper landscaping drainage can help prevent water damage during heavy rains.

8. Sump Pump Maintenance:

• If you have a sump pump in your basement or crawl space, test it regularly to ensure it functions correctly. A well-maintained sump pump can protect these areas from flooding.

9. Foundation and Basement Check:

• Inspect your foundation and basement for cracks and openings. Seal any gaps to prevent water infiltration during heavy rainfall.

10. Consider Water Leak Detection:

• Explore the possibility of installing a water leak detection system that can alert you to leaks or excessive moisture early on, allowing for timely action.

11. Drain Maintenance:

• Keep drains in sinks and showers clear of debris and hair to prevent clogs that can lead to water backups and potential damage.

12. Regular Home Inspections:

• Periodically schedule home inspections, both inside and outside, to identify potential issues before they escalate into water damage emergencies.

Conclusion:

Preventing water damage requires proactive efforts, including regular maintenance and staying vigilant. By following these home maintenance tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of water damage to your property. However, should water damage occur despite your best efforts, remember that SERVPRO is ready to provide professional water damage restoration services, helping you restore your home to its original condition.

Reclaiming Sunshine State Splendor: SERVPRO's Orlando, FL Water Damage Expertise

11/6/2023 (Permalink)

Water destroys buildings and property

In the heart of Orlando, Florida, where the enchantment of theme parks meets the unpredictability of weather, water damage can pose a challenge for homeowners. Whether it's a sudden downpour, a plumbing mishap, or a roof leak, the impact of water damage can be truly disheartening. Fortunately, Orlando has a dedicated team ready to help, no matter the size of the job – SERVPRO.

Local Insight and Expertise:

• In Orlando, local insight is invaluable. Our SERVPRO team knows the city's unique landscape. We understand the local climate, common sources of water damage, and the most effective strategies to address them. We're not just a restoration team; we're your neighbors who understand the magic and challenges of Orlando.

Skilled Professionals Rooted in Orlando:

• Orlando's dynamic environment requires specialized expertise. Our team consists of skilled professionals who call Orlando home. They're trained and certified to serve our city effectively, ensuring that we can handle any size job with precision and care.

Advanced Equipment for Every Orlando Challenge:

• Orlando's diverse weather patterns demand adaptability. We're equipped with state-of-the-art tools, including advanced moisture meters and powerful dehumidifiers, to address water damage effectively, regardless of the challenge.

Initial Assessment for Tailored Solutions:

• Understanding Orlando's unique climate and potential sources of water damage, we begin with a comprehensive assessment. We evaluate the extent of the damage, whether it's caused by a local storm, flooding, or internal issues.

Safety as a Community Priority:

• Safety is paramount in our city. Whether we're tackling a small residential issue or a significant job, we immediately shut off electricity and gas to protect our team and our neighbors.

Efficient Water Extraction for Orlando Residents:

• Orlando residents can trust us to swiftly remove standing water. We understand the importance of quick action, especially during stormy seasons, no matter the size of the water intrusion.

Thorough Moisture Detection:

• Orlando's humid climate can create hidden moisture pockets. We employ advanced moisture detection equipment to ensure every corner is covered, regardless of the job's size.

Respect for Your Belongings in Orlando:

• We treat furniture, cherished items, and valuables with care, regardless of the size of the job. Orlando's rich cultural heritage deserves nothing less.

Community-Based Mold Prevention:

• Orlando's warm and humid climate makes mold prevention vital. We take all necessary steps to control humidity and ensure thorough drying, no matter the scale of the water damage.

Dehumidification and Structural Drying in Orlando:

• In a city that values its vibrant communities, we use dehumidifiers and specialized drying equipment to reduce moisture levels and restore building materials, regardless of the challenge.

Cleanliness and Sanitization in Orlando: - Orlando residents can count on our commitment to cleanliness. Whether it's a small residential issue or a larger commercial challenge, we disinfect all affected areas, preventing mold and bacteria growth and maintaining a healthy living environment.

Preservation and Restoration in Orlando: - Orlando's rich history and architectural heritage deserve preservation. Whether it's a small residential issue or a significant commercial crisis, our restoration process ensures damaged structures and materials are repaired or replaced, preserving the city's unique character.

A Focus on Community in Orlando: - In Orlando, we're not just a service provider; we're your neighbors. Our commitment to our vibrant community means we maintain open lines of communication with property owners, ensuring that clients are informed about our progress, any adjustments, and what to expect, regardless of the job's size.

Final Inspection in the Spirit of Orlando: - We complete our work with a final inspection to ensure that all water damage has been addressed, and our community is safe and habitable, no matter the size of the challenge.

Serving Orlando, we understand the unique spirit of the city. Whether it's a minor residential issue or a significant community crisis, our SERVPRO team feels deeply connected to Orlando and is committed to preserving its enchanting magic and vibrant life. We're not just a restoration team; we're part of your community, your friends, and your support system. In Orlando, we're here to ensure that your city remains a vibrant and welcoming place to call home.

Water Damage Restoration Technicians: The Key Players In Your Emergency Service

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage restoration tech on site at commercial water loss.

A water restoration technician has an extremely important job when a home is affected by excess moisture. Certified professionals in the industry can quickly reverse the extensive damage that a flood or sewage backflow can cause, and save as many items as possible in the process. And when dealing with contaminated water, especially when it has pooled in the home, only certified professionals should be allowed to manage the cleanup. Attempting to perform cleanup efforts without expert assistance can lead to injury or illness, both of which can be severe.

A certified water restoration technician is on call around the clock. When an entire community has been affected a major disaster we can call in multiple teams to assist. As soon as a professional is on site, they will assess the situation and determine what items need immediate rescuing. If water has pooled in areas around the home, then pumps will be used to remove it.

The home will be dried using a configuration of heavy duty air movers and dehumidifiers, and while it dries, the firm will move through the building and look for any evidence of mold or pathogen contamination. If pathogens or mold are present, they will be eliminated using special procedures. This will ensure the home is safe to return to, and with concerted drying efforts, the building will as good as new once professionals have completed their work.

Water Damage Restoration Technicians: The Key Players In Your Emergency Service

9/25/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO water damage restoration tech on site at commercial water loss.

A water restoration technician has an extremely important job when a home is affected by excess moisture. Certified professionals in the industry can quickly reverse the extensive damage that a flood or sewage backflow can cause, and save as many items as possible in the process. And when dealing with contaminated water, especially when it has pooled in the home, only certified professionals should be allowed to manage the cleanup. Attempting to perform cleanup efforts without expert assistance can lead to injury or illness, both of which can be severe.

A certified water restoration technician is on call around the clock. When an entire community has been affected a major disaster we can call in multiple teams to assist. As soon as a professional is on site, they will assess the situation and determine what items need immediate rescuing. If water has pooled in areas around the home, then pumps will be used to remove it.

The home will be dried using a configuration of heavy duty air movers and dehumidifiers, and while it dries, the firm will move through the building and look for any evidence of mold or pathogen contamination. If pathogens or mold are present, they will be eliminated using special procedures. This will ensure the home is safe to return to, and with concerted drying efforts, the building will as good as new once professionals have completed their work.

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!

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.

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.

Not Everything You Read Online is Helpful!

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

When it comes to knowing how to handle an unexpected occurrence like a water damage at your home, how do you know who to trust to help you and give you accurate information? There is a plethora of information online, but that doesn’t mean it is all GOOD information.

For example, when searching “how do I clean up water damaged carpet” there was a recommendation to sprinkle baking soda on it and vacuum it up with a shop vac, and then call a carpet cleaning company to clean the carpet. This may work for a small spill, say from a glass of water, but this would not be recommended for any substantial water damage.

If you have experienced a water damage in your home or business-from a burst pipe, leaking roof, faulty appliance, or anything else-you would want to look for a qualified professional to assist you in properly drying things out. Start by looking for a business that is well known. Do they have a long standing relationship in the community? Do they have online reviews? Is their staff IICRC Certified? How long have they been in business?

Here at SERVPRO we pride ourselves on serving our community. Feel free to give us a call anytime with questions related to your water damage needs.

How Do I Choose a Company to Clean Up Water Damage?

1/6/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO brings decades of experience and the latest in restoration techniques to local Apopka Area properties in need

It seems the most inconvenient times are when hot water tanks fail, toilets back up, pipes burst, or that leak in the roof happens. When you need water cleanup in your Apopka home, the key is to begin as soon as possible with the extraction and drying. Some of the key elements to look for when choosing a local restoration services company are: 

• Ask about water-restoration related certifications
• Find out about the equipment that gets used
• Will the company work with your insurance carrier?
• Is there a policy to inhibit out-of-pocket charges by working within the scope of coverage?
• Does the company have access to professional-grade cleaning agents, antimicrobials, and antibacterial solutions?

Can Water Damage Restoration Companies Do Repairs As Well As Cleanup? 

When choosing among local water restoration companies in the Orlando Area, you already know the necessary information to ask about. Getting repairs done after the water removal and drying of the structure makes the whole process seamless. With their general contractor license #CBC1258985, SERVPRO technicians can handle any needed repairs or reconstruction to every part of your home. Commonly needed repairs the technicians provide include: 

• Replacement of sheetrock on walls and ceilings
• Installation of tile
• Refinishing or replacement of hardwood floorboards
• Painting and other cosmetic services

The technicians work to save homeowners the cost of repairs and replacement whenever possible. The use of equipment such as an infrared camera to identify water location assists in assuring that no moisture gets left behind. Other sensitive moisture detectors and hygrometers help the techs measure the amounts of moisture saturation throughout the home. Once they pinpoint all the locations, they can use their powerful extraction equipment to remove the majority of the water. Even if the water in the home is several inches deep, they have the equipment to handle it.

Special Water Damage Situations 

When the water contains sewage, chemicals, or other harmful elements, the techs have training and experience handling biohazard-level cleanup jobs. The job entails wearing protective gear, and most importantly, respiration equipment aspirating water vapor can prove harmful. There are different types of containment, such as simple barriers made from heavy gauge plastic sheeting or setting up negative air chambers, both methods work to inhibit the potential for cross-contamination.

Floodwater from heavy storms or hurricanes is part of living in this part of the state, and it is crucial to work with a restoration services company that has the experience of dealing with this type of damage. This type of water intrusion event frequently needs controlled demolition. Sheetrock deteriorates rapidly and sagging ceilings or buckling walls can present safety hazards and require removal. The techs remove only the damaged portion and leave the rest of the structure intact to limit the amount of rebuilding needed to restore the home.

Do's & Don'ts After a Water Damage

10/7/2021 (Permalink)

“I have a water damage in my home. Can you help me?” No homeowner wants to make that call, but it unfortunately happens to many. Once you’ve made the call to SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva, what can you do?

Thankfully our staff is trained to walk you through the job process and offer some tips you can use to help mitigate your loss while you wait on our crews to arrive. Here is a list of some of do’s and don’ts that might also help.

DO:

• Shut off the source of water if possible or contact a qualified party to stop the source of water.
• Turn off circuit breakers for wet areas of the building when access to the power distribution panel is safe from electrical shock.
• Remove as much excess water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removing lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Remove to a safe, dry place any paintings, art objects, computers, documents and other materials that are valuable or sensitive to moisture.
• Use wooden clothespins to keep furniture skirting off damp floors.
• Hang draperies with coated hangers to avoid contact with wet carpeting or floors.
• Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.

DON’T:

• Enter rooms with standing water where electrical shock hazards may exist.
• Enter affected areas if electrical outlets, switches, circuit breakers or electrical equipment are exposed to water. Always avoid electrical shocks hazards.
• Leave books, newspapers, magazines or other colored items on wet carpets or floors to cause staining.
• Leave Oriental rugs or other colored rugs on wet wall-to-wall carpets to cause staining.
• Use your household vacuum cleaner to remove water, possibly causing electrical shock or damage to the vacuum cleaner.
• Use TV’s or other appliances while standing on wet carpets or floors, especially not on wet concrete floors.
• Turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet or enter rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water.

Rest assured these tips will help you begin to mitigate your loss while our team of IICRC certified technicians is on the way. Please feel free to call us anytime at 407-788-3124.

Top Water Issues For Apopka / Wekiva Area Businesses

4/20/2021 (Permalink)

Slab leaks can quickly turn into a major issue if not corrected immediately.

For a commercial property owner in the greater Orlando area, unexpected water problems can be a big issue. Fortunately, water damage professionals can help you assess, clean, and repair damages from any flooding or leaks you may have. Here are a few of the most common water problems a business may face, from leaking pipes to foundation cracks.

1. Pipe Breaks

A pipe break can occur in several ways. Over time, the pipe can age and loosen in its fittings, or extensive use can lead to pinhole leaks. Extreme heat or cold can affect a pipe’s integrity. A blocked pipe can lead to pressure buildup and burst.

2. Plumbing Issues

Blocked plumbing can lead to a toilet backup or sink overflow. Water in blocked pipes can take the shortest path regardless of its intended flow path. Blockages occur, including the buildup of water minerals over time inside a pipe or someone pouring a solidifying material, such as plaster or grease, down a drain.

3. Bad Weather

Extreme weather conditions such as Florida hurricanes, can lead to water damages from sustained wind driven rain or roof damage from high winds. These can quickly escalate to a business flooding, and it's important to have someone you can call immediately to begin water extraction and drying. SERVPRO of Apopka / Wekiva has the right equipment and trained techs to handle these types of situations. 

4. Foundation Issues (cracks and slab leaks) 

Foundation cracks can become a problem leading to water damage. Water can seep through any cracks and pool, leading to issues such as mold. Any cracks should be assessed quickly to determine the best course of action.

Water damage can happen to a commercial property. Fortunately, a professional can fix the damage caused by leaking pipes, foundation cracks, backed up toilet, or weather, and help you repair your property.

If you have water damage anywhere in your business you can count on us to help. You can contact us at any hour of the day to learn more about our services or to report damages.

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

Best Practices After Water Damage Happens to Your Home | SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva

12/4/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can be devastating and overwhelming. Take these steps immediately after water damage.

Flooding in your home can be damaging and devastating. Anything from heavy rains to burst pipes and appliance malfunctions can easily land you in this overwhelming position.

Relax, we’re here to help! Here are some steps to take immediately after water damage happens to your home.

Safety First

Your belongings can be replaced, but your family cannot be. Make sure you and your family are safe. Beware of electrical and “slip and fall” hazards. Stay out of rooms where ceilings are sagging should it collapse. Water damage can lead to mold growth within hours which can cause health effects after prolonged exposure. With that said, after you determine that everyone is safe it’s important to act immediately to take care of the problem.

Call Us

Within 24-48 hours, water damage cleanup should begin. There are a few routes you can take from here, but we recommend that you give us a call as soon as possible. After we collect the necessary information to best serve you, we’ll come to your property to assess the damage and get to work.

Start Cleanup

Before we arrive, you might start trying to clean up the mess. Although tempting, don’t use a household vacuum to remove water. Instead, use a mop to clean up excess water. You should gather colored and loose items, like rugs, from floors as they can leave behind a stain should they meet water.

After you’ve done what you can you might find that the rest of the damage requires professional assistance. At SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva, we have the expertise and equipment to help complete the job.

We got it from here! From there, we’ll take the following steps:

Water Removal

We have powerful pumps and vacuums that can remove up to hundreds of thousands of gallons of water. We’ll use these to minimize further damage to your property. To remove water from hard to reach places, we’ll use air movers and humidifiers.

Cleaning and Sanitizing

Water damage can destroy expensive and meaningful items like furniture and clothing. Furthermore, water damage can leave behind a musty smell. Our specialized cleaning techniques, air scrubbers, and fogging equipment can restore and sanitize your belongings and remove unpleasant odors.

Restoration

Sometimes, restoring your property to pre-water damage condition requires reconstruction. This can range from replacing drywall panels to rebuilding rooms of the property. Whatever solution your home needs, we will do our part in helping you get it.

If you have water damage anywhere in your home you can count on us to help. You can contact us at any hour of the day to learn more about our services or to report damages.

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

SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva cleans your HVAC unit as if it were our own.

11/13/2020 (Permalink)

HVAC maintenance cleaning overdue? Leave it to the experts, call SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva!

Residential Air Duct Cleaning in Florida

As anyone who owns a home knows, you constantly strive to keep things clean – frequent dusting, upholstery cleaning, and floor maintenance are typically the first items that come to mind. However, an often-overlooked cleaning issue is air duct maintenance – many people are unaware of the harm that a neglected air venting system can cause.

After years of use, the ducts accumulate an innumerable amount of debris, including layers of dust, pollen, contaminants and other pollutants that can affect your air quality. Furthermore, air ducts that aren’t cleaned regularly are more prone to burn out and malfunction.

Ready to schedule an appointment or have other questions about our services?

When you clean your air ducts, the inhabitants of your residential property will experience several benefits, particularly those who suffer from allergies or other respiratory disorders. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), air ducts should be cleaned once every 2 years to prevent potential health risks.

Whether you live in a Orlando apartment complex or own a residence elsewhere in Florida, SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva provides a host of green cleaning alternatives, including all-natural air duct cleaning services. Our team of certified professionals combine the latest technology with an eco-friendly approach with our upcoming HVAC cleaning division.

Call SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva today at 407-788-3124!

The Science behind the drying process

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Having the knowledge of psychrometrics in essential to restoring a water damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be to grab a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damaged area, we are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your business suffers a water damage, SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva Professional will:

• Inspect the building to detect every component that is wet, to help prevent secondary damage from happening.
• Measure how much moisture is in wet materials and monitor whether the materials are drying properly.
• Speed up Mother Nature by using professional drying equipment.

What exactly does it mean to help "speed up Mother Nature"? A wet building can often dry naturally because the environment always seeks equilibrium. When materials are wet, moisture will naturally move to drier air at the surface of the material-but only if the air is, indeed, drier. The only problem is, nature takes too long and secondary damages may occur while the building is drying out.

SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva Professionals have the tools and equipment to help dry hardwood floors, tough-to-reach spaces inside walls, and much more. SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva Professionals also use state-of-the-art monitoring equipment, and a proven scientific process to help speed the drying of your home or business.

The bottom-line? SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva Professionals have the training and equipment to help make water damage "Like it never even happened."

Call SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva at: (407) 788-3124

Timely Bathroom Maintenance Can Prevent Leaks

10/16/2020 (Permalink)

Bathroom maintenance can prevent leaks.

If you own a home or rent, it's a good idea to become familiar with your plumbing system. This could save you time and money as well as prevent a major problem. The mainline brings freshwater into your building, and from there, you have several supply lines that eventually bring water to individual faucets and appliances, often by way of smaller branch lines. Supply line damage, since it usually carries a large amount of water, can quickly flood your home in the Orlando Area. Therefore, a smart homeowner pays attention to the condition of the supply lines.

The Need for Maintenance
If you have resided in your location for years, you might even know the history of your supply lines and when they last received maintenance. Knowing the following facts will help you keep tabs on the potential for a supply line leak:

• The age of the pipes
• The material of the pipes
• The date of the last major plumbing upgrade
• The length of any warranty from the plumbing contractor or the pipe manufacturer
  
  

Some materials last longer than others. Plastic piping becomes vulnerable to supply line damage after about five to eight years; of course, it could last much longer, but it usually will be not be warrantied for any longer. On the other hand, steel braided piping often has a lifetime warranty on materials.

The Need for Water Cleanup
Whether it is from supply line damage or a bathroom leak, water escaping into your home is a serious problem. A professional water remediation team can act quickly to limit the damage. Trained technicians will arrive Faster to Any Size Disaster and remove standing water before it has had time to cause structural damage to floors and walls. They will use powerful vacuums and air dryers to rid the home of excessive humidity, which is often a condition that invites mold growth. If you suspect your supply lines are worn, it might be time to have a plumbing contractor check things out.

Water damage and mold-two sides of the same coin

9/8/2020 (Permalink)

Apopka/Wekiva can help with water damage and mold remediation.

We consider water damages and mold to be two sides of the same coin. The mold jobs that we remediate are just water damages that have gone on for too long. The problem usually comes when they find out that the pipe behind their drywall or under a sink behind supplies had actually been leaking for a long time. Behind the drywall is the perfect home for mold…once you introduce that moisture to whatever spores might be behind your walls, the mold springs to life and begins to grow.

You had a small water leak so cleaned it up yourself. Everything looks dried out and problem solved. But now you see mold. If you see visible mold, your best move is to leave it alone. When you disturb mold by trying to remove it, you can inadvertently spread the mold infestation throughout your home. Mold spores are microscopic and when you try to clean them, the mold can release tiny spores which become airborne and can circulate inside your home.

What to Do:

• Stay out of affected areas.
• Turn off the HVAC system and fans.
• Contact SERVPRO of Apopka/Wekiva for mold remediation services.

What Not to Do:

• Don’t touch or disturb the mold.
• Don’t blow air across any surfaces with visible or suspected mold growth.
• Don’t attempt to dry the area yourself.
• Don’t spray bleach or other disinfectants on the mold.

About Our Mold Remediation Services

SERVPRO of Apopka/Wekiva specializes in mold cleanup and restoration, in fact, it’s a cornerstone of our business. Our crews are highly trained restoration professionals that use specialized equipment and techniques to properly remediate your mold problem quickly and safely. We are locally owned and operated.  Contact us at (407) 788-3124.

3 Ways To Prevent Clogged Toilets

8/28/2020 (Permalink)

Thinner paper is much less likely to clog up the pipes

Take The Following Steps To Help Protect Your Building

Keeping your bathrooms clean and functioning properly can be a hassle in commercial buildings. After all, you never know exactly who is attempting to flush what down your precious septic system. While you may not be able to control many clogged toilet scenarios, there are a few steps you can take to help protect your building in Apopka, FL. 

1. Post Signs and Notices
A few simple instructions can go a long way for most visitors. If you prefer that customers dispose of feminine hygiene products in specifically marked wastebaskets, as opposed to flushing them down the toilet, then hang up a sign asking them to do so. Many people do abide by the laws of common courtesy and a simple reminder can help prevent unwanted toilet overflow.

2. Opt for Thinner Toilet Paper
Thicker, more luxurious toilet paper is preferable for home bathrooms, but it might not be the best choice for your commercial ones. Customers who tend to use thicker wads of toilet paper pose a risk to your sewage system. Thinner paper is much less likely to clog up the pipes.

3. Provide Plenty of Trash Cans and Waste Baskets
If there aren't any trash cans available, customers often choose to flush trash down the toilet. They may believe that it's a much more polite alternative than leaving trash on the counters or floors, but your clogged toilet tends to disagree. Offering plenty of places for customers to discard their trash is a simple and effective way to prevent these accidents from happening.
A clogged toilet is an unpleasant sight in any commercial bathroom. Protecting your bathrooms isn't just about preventing septic issues, it's also important to leave a good impression on your customers. The pointers above can certainly help maintain harmony in your commercial bathroom, but there's no real way to prevent disaster entirely. If you do discover septic issues in your building, it's important that you call flood remediation experts as soon as possible.

SERVPRO Uses Science When Grappling with Orlando Area Water Losses

12/24/2019 (Permalink)

Water Loss Drying Includes the Science of Psychrometrics--Says SERVPRO

The Balancing Act of Water Damage Restoration Here in Orlando

Water Damage Orlando
The majority of water call-outs we do are the result of burst pipes, faulty appliances, or leakages. While it can be distressing for a homeowner to discover water issues, with the correct procedure, controlling damages is possible. If feasible, you should try to buffer the water to prevent it from spreading too far beyond the source. Mopping up excess residues can also help stop moisture from migrating into tough to reach areas or wall cavities.

Our technicians for water damage here in Orlando are capable of restoring homes efficiently because they understand the properties of water. The moment a water spillage occurs, it begins to spread. Spreading can be evident in the form of a stream or as the result of evaporation into the air. As a restorer, it is vital to address both visible and non-visible signs of moisture as both can cause long-lasting issues to a homeowner.

To combat an emergency water incident, we need first to understand how water interacts with its environment. Psychrometrics is the relationship between water, air, and temperature. In an indoor space, evaporating moisture remains in the air. Evaporation can cause an increase in humidity levels. Moisture saturation of your indoor air can slow the drying process, which is why it is so important to keep under control during restoration.

High humidity levels can present many challenges for your home. Mold growth is likely when humidity levels are high. When evaporated moisture cools, it reaches the dew point- the point where moisture condenses- and can cause havoc with electrical devices like televisions, power cables, computers, and tablets. SERVPRO water restoration technicians have to carefully balance psychrometrics to dry a property effectively and to avoid secondary damages.

Some aspects of psychrometrics may be more fundamental than others. Hot air, for example, is capable of holding large quantities of moisture. Heating a room using portable or inbuilt central heating can speed up the drying time significantly. At the same time, these temperatures, in combination with humidity, can result in condensation on interior walls. SERVPRO technicians take regular measurements using thermal hygrometers to balance effective drying with loss reduction throughout service.

Understanding the principles of drying is as crucial to efficient service as is our equipment. To get your home back on track, contact SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva at (407) 788-3124.

We Are Always Available For Your Orlando Water Damage Restoration

11/14/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you have a roof leak, plumbing leak, or any other water damage we respond quickly.

SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva: Water Removal Specialists Who Appreciate the Area and Your Family

Just 16 miles from downtown Orlando, crystal clear springs flow from deep underground, feeding 42 million gallons of water a day through the communities of Apopka and Wekiva. These systems of blackwater streams and wetlands offer many recreational activities for tourists and residents and serve as a habitat for wildlife. Near big city living, the natural beauty of the area, and temperate to sub-tropical weather also makes this part of Central Florida a much-desired place to call home. Locally owned and operated, We are very aware of the benefits of living near crystal clear springs.

Water removal in Orlando around Apopka-Wekiva is one of our specialties. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) ensures our technicians are certified to handle water removal and dehumidification appropriately. For example, the S500 says, “Exposed materials that remain in place should be cleaned and decontaminated, as appropriate.” Any “decontamination should be accomplished to the extent possible by cleaning.” We study IICRC standards and best practices in cleaning and restoration standards to treat your home and belongings as if it were our own.

Extraction is one of the first critical steps to removing moisture from your home. The more excess water our restorers remove first with extraction equipment, the less time it will take to evaporate and dehumidify the remaining moisture with drying equipment. Various types of extraction tools are used by SERVPRO to remove water, such as extraction units, light wands, and if needed, deep extraction tools, and submersible pumps.

Water can damage materials in two ways: first, by absorption through direct contact with water; and second, absorption of moisture from the air. Measuring the moisture content of the air is critical to the drying process. Water damage affects not only the structure of your house but also your belongings. Our SERVPRO staff understands that your home is more than a structure; your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings are what transform your house into a home.

Our employees live in the community. And, just like you, they have had first-hand experience with too much water in their home from rain events, malfunctioning appliances, and leaky pipes. We know that in a home, water in the wrong places can severely disrupt your daily lifestyle, creating stress and uncertainty for your family. Our SERVPRO family is here to help you.

When water takes control of your life, SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva helps you take it back. If you have water or flood damage, we are always available 24/7/365. Contact us at (407) 788-3124.

See more about Orlando.

Professionals Give Tips for Water Cleanup in Orlando

10/8/2019 (Permalink)

Uh Oh! This looks like a job for SERVPRO!

Advice for a DIY Water Cleanup in Your Orlando Apartment 

There are many ways you may find your Orlando apartment in need of water cleanup services. However, there may be factors involved that prevent you from reaching out for professional services. Perhaps you feel the mess is not large enough to warrant a call, or maybe your finances are not in great shape. No matter if you choose to get help or to do it yourself, you must do so quickly. Water spills can quickly turn into water damage, so you are on a clock to make a choice and begin the remediation work as quickly as possible. 

A leaking dishwasher could leave your home in need of a DIY water cleanup in your Orlando kitchen. If you were to clean this up yourself, you should not just use towels on the puddle and then call it a day. The dishwater could have sat on your floor for a significant time before you found it. Furthermore, if your dishwasher is prone to leaking, you may find that mold damage could begin to grow underneath the unit from lack of proper cleanup. If you cannot reach out for professional services, you need to have a few pieces of equipment at your disposal, such as: 

• Space Heater
• Fan
• Dehumidifier
• Mop or Towels 

SERVPRO recommends for you to start with a way to remove the excess water. If you had a wet/dry vacuum lying around, that would be perfect. However, many people do not have the means to access to such equipment. Furthermore, if you are trying to avoid expensive costs, buying one is not practical. So, in this situation, you could use towels or a mop to absorb the excess water that is visible. 

When a leak occurs in your home, you must be aware that there could be hidden pockets of water. Here at SERVPRO, our technicians could use thermal imaging cameras to search for pockets out of sight. However, because you do not have access to such devices, this is where the heater, dehumidifier, and fans come in. If you set these devices up to work together, you can create an environment ideal for evaporation. Point the fan toward the bottom of your dishwasher to dispense hot and dry air underneath. However, if you were to notice that the wooden floor around your dishwasher begins to warp, or other signs of water damage, reach out to SERVPRO right away.

Always get help if you find your home in need of water cleanup services. Communicate with SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva by calling (407) 788-3124. Our technicians are always available and ready to help you. 

Read more about Orlando here.

Water Cleanup Orlando – External Power Needs

9/30/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO has the power to assist with your water damage in Orlando.

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.

We Have The Proper Techniques To Restore Your Orlando Home After Water Damage

9/5/2019 (Permalink)

Whether you have a plumbing leak, a roof leak, or any other water damage give us a call to stop the flooding and get your home repaired quickly.

Water Removal Orlando – Drying a Home Efficiently

The process of removing water from houses is generally a step by step procedure. Water often covers the floors, after a water leak, sometimes as much as an inch or two. The general steps include:

• Remove the water

• Place furniture on blocks

• Remove wet items for external drying

• Mopping the floors removes the remaining water

• Turn on the air conditioning helps to reduce the humidity

• Dehumidifiers and air movers are installed to complete the drying process.

SERVPRO Orlando is very familiar with water removal processes and can respond to provide help in any water removal situation. One of our crew-chiefs meets with the customer and together assess the situation. He or she develops a plan for water extraction, dehumidification, and drying.

General Water Removal Process

Our crew chief can assess the damage from a water leak. He or she also can ensure safety concerns from electrical appliances and lights are addressed before work can begin. Next, the water extraction equipment is brought in to remove the liquid water. All contents of the home are sent out for cleaning and drying. Finally, the equipment needed to thoroughly dry the home and return it to its original condition is brought in.

Dehumidification and Drying

After water removal of the liquid water and all water on hard surfaces dried, dehumidifiers and air movers are installed. The air movers move air over the surfaces of the home to absorb moisture, while the dehumidifiers remove the moisture from the air.

Hardwood floors may require

desiccant dehumidifiers to lower the humidity in the wood and avoid swelling and cupping. Cupping occurs when hardwood floors absorb moisture, swell, and crush the boards together, causing deformation at the edges.

Once humidity levels in the home have lowered to normal levels, desiccant dehumidifiers remove the remaining moisture from structural materials that remain wet or contain high levels of humidity.

SERVPRO technicians are highly trained and deploy the best equipment to meet the humidity conditions in your home.

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

See more about Orlando.

Why a Quick Response to Water Damage can Prevent Secondary damage.

8/28/2019 (Permalink)

Untreated water damage can lead to mold growth. Call us today to prevent this growth!

Qualified Technicians are Ready to Carry out Water Removal in Your Orlando Home

Cleaning up after a flood is time-consuming. There is a whole host of potential damages to look out for, and standing water is just the tip of the iceberg. Once you have completed the laborious task of removing excess moisture, carpets, furnishings, fabrics, and subfloor need to be adequately dried to minimize malodors. At the same time, the rising relative humidity could lead to secondary harm like uncontrolled microbial growth. It is a delicate balancing act to manage, but with professional guidance, you can get your home back to its normal state.

As a homeowner, reaching out to a professional for water removal in Orlando should be your first port of call on discovering a flooding incident in your home. Generally, heavy rainfall or burst pipes is a clean water emergency that requires restoration but minimal replacement. However, as time passes, clean water emergencies can become more severe as water comes into contact with pre-existing microbial growth, bacteria, and dust. By responding quickly with professional assistance, you can put a stop on further damages while restoring the affected area.

SERVPRO is a nationally recognized water restoration service that specializes in flooded properties. Our roster includes water restoration technicians (WRT) as well as applied structural drying technicians (ASD.) A WRT can scope your property for hazards. They also perform mitigation tasks like removing furniture from the affected area, pumping out the standing water and then putting in place the necessary procedure for drying the affected area correctly. 

ASD technicians, on the other hand, can be brought in for scenarios where water has migrated into wall cavities, waterlogged wooden flooring or damaged parts of your home's structure. Using drying mats as well as injectidry systems, SERVPRO ASD technicians are adept at gaining access to restricted areas, and thoroughly drying them.  They also prevent issues resulting from the dampness and control microbial growth. Using thermal imaging cameras, they can also detect hidden moisture pockets to ensure our approach remains professional and efficient. 

Qualified WRT and ASD technicians can bring your home back to its pre-flood condition. Contact SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva at (407) 788-3124. 

More about Orlando.

Our Reputable Team Is Ready To Restore Your Orlando Home After Water Damage

2/19/2019 (Permalink)

Our experts are available 24/7. We have the right equipment for any situation big or small so don't wait call us today!

Call the Professionals When there is Water Damage to Your Home in Orlando

Orlando is filled with communities where single-family homes and condos provide a comfortable and peaceful community living. One of the most notable features in this beautiful city is the abundance of lakes and water bodies which only point to how present water is throughout the area. Summer downpours and thunderstorms are the norm and locals prepare for their effects. An essential part of this preparation is knowing whom to call if there is water damage to your home.

Time is of the essence when there is water damage to your call in Orlando. Our SERVPRO team is equipped to handle emergencies stemming from a broken pipe to a window leak to a more severe structural problem in your roof. Regardless of the cause of the damage, we are IIRC certified and ready to respond 24/7 to your emergency call. Our ability to respond promptly is the first step in curtailing the extent of the damage caused by standing water to your home.

Our SERVPRO Green Fleet is prepared to arrive at your home with monitoring tools and equipment to fit emergencies of all sizes. Upon arrival, we assess the extent to which the structure of your home has been compromised and take action to ensure the safety of your family and our staff. Once imminent dangers are mitigated we proceed to extract any standing water using submersible pumps and more targeted tools. In this process, we closely monitor the presence of standing water behind your walls and under carpeting and flooring. Once we confirm appropriate moisture levels, we can complete the drying process using air movers, dehumidifiers and other advanced techniques.

Homeowners frequently encounter that their attempts at extracting water and drying their homes fall short of safeguarding them from other damage. For example, you may think that your home is completely dry even though a small deposit of water still lies beyond your drywall. Given a short period, you could battle the spread of mold with the threat this may pose to your health. At SERVPRO we train to anticipate these effects and take preemptive action to prevent further damage.

When you find yourself in need of a reputable team to help you delete water damage from your home do not hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva at (407) 788-3124. Like you, our goal is to leave your home "Like it never even happened."

Plan your visit to Leu Gardens click here for more information.

Water Damage In Your Orlando Home? Don't Worry SERVPRO Can Help!

2/13/2019 (Permalink)

Let our professionals restore your home after a flood with our extraction equipment. We are available 24/7 give us a call.

Professional Cleanup and Drying of Moist Orlando Crawlspaces

While not all Orlando homes have a crawlspace, those that do have undoubtedly witnessed the effects of the moist and damp ground and pooling from severe weather in this area of their property. While this open area beneath your home was deliberate in its design to reduce flood damages for homes that could get affected by multiple hurricanes every rainy season, the upkeep for your crawlspace is sometimes more than allowing it to dry naturally on its own.

Water damage that affects your Orlando crawlspace might seem less pressing than a water loss incident that occurs within the house, but taking care of this situation could prove equally important. Without swift actions to remedy lingering moisture and dampness on the underside of your home, you could be opening up the door to mold growth and colonization, which is both damaging to the structural integrity of the property as well as those that live in the house. Preventing this begins with keeping a mindful eye on moisture and dampness levels in the crawlspace throughout the year. Even groundwater pooling at the surface could have the same disastrous effects without the need for severe weather systems or flooding.

Our SERVPRO team has efficient extraction equipment that can help to quickly remove any excess water damage from the flooring of this crawlspace and help it to reach a point where our drying processes work quickly. Drying this crawlspace can be an excellent place to start with preventing secondary effects like mold growth, but is only a temporary solution.

The technicians that we dispatch to your address can offer you effective solutions to divert water away from this area of your property. From the installation of sump pumps to crawlspace encapsulation, our SERVPRO team can offer you long term solutions to prevent recurring threats.

While area residents might stay accustomed to the humidity and moist conditions of the ground, your home does not have to suffer the effects of this persistent dampness. Let our SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva water restoration technicians help you dry up the damage and work to prevent recurrences moving forward. Give us a call today at (407) 788-3124.

Visit the Downtown Food & Wine Fest click here for more information.

Did it Rain Inside Your Orlando Home? Call SERVPRO to Remove the Water

1/2/2019 (Permalink)

Do you have unwanted water inside your home? Call SERVPRO!

Water Removal and Extraction Pulls Water Out When Storms Push Water into Your 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.

Let SERVPRO Come to Your Rescue When You Experience Water Damage In Your Orlando Home

12/6/2018 (Permalink)

Stop further water damage to your Orlando home with SERVPRO

Tools Professionals Use That Help Mitigate Water Damage In Orlando 

When water invades your Orlando home, the onslaught can feel overwhelming. Attempts you make to try to manage the mess on your own might have the opposite result you desire, actually worsening or failure to resolve the damage. Appropriate water loss remediation involves many steps and powerful tools in the hands of experienced operators. Professional restoration companies train their work crews thoroughly and invest in high-efficiency equipment and products that match the challenges of water mitigation.

In Orlando severe water damage scenarios in frequently include reacting not only to the immediate crisis of plumbing or appliance fail but also to longer-term evidence of seemingly minor issues preceding the catastrophe. An experienced crew chief and technicians are familiar with the detective work needed to resolve your water loss completely. When all aspects of the damages are not addressed with the skills and tools professionals possess, continuing deterioration of structural components and secondary water damage is likely.

SERVPRO work crews arrive on the scene of every water damage project with one or more green trucks fully stocked with the tools needed to assess and evaluate the extent of the problem. Moisture meters and thermal scanning devices in the hands of our IICRC-trained employees scope out the dimensions of the water damage, even under fixtures, behind walls, under floors, and over ceilings. Water migrates quickly, not always in directions the homeowner anticipates. We use state-of-the-art devices to outline the perimeter to plan and continually monitor the progress of your project comprehensively.

The wet vacs and fans a big-box hardware store sells to consumers are no match for the quantity of water needing removal and the speed necessary for structural drying. SERVPRO brings a several member crew to remediate water damage because the longer excess water remains soaked into the building materials and possessions at your home the more expensive and time-consuming a final solution becomes.

Our truck-mounted water extractors and submersible pumps churn through inches to feet of water fast. We follow up with air movers and heaters that, positioned correctly by trained technicians, rapidly move moisture out of structural components so that our humidifiers can condense or absorb the water vapor for removal. SERVPRO is Faster to Any Size Disaster, using equipment designed explicitly for water removal and drying for the best outcomes.

Get the team from SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva onboard when you suffer from a water damage event. Our phones answer round the clock at (407) 788-3124 to ensure one of our crews arrives within hours.

Come enjoy one of Apoka's many recreational facilities to find out more click here.

Our Crew At SERVPRO Has The Experience And Equipment To Restore Your Water Damaged Orlando Home

11/26/2018 (Permalink)

Failure to remove the moisture absorbed through materials exposed to the water can result in structural weakness and mold growth.

Efficient Water Cleanup For Your Orlando Residence

Emergencies that affect your Orlando home come in all shapes and sizes. From slow, persistent leaks to substantial water loss incidents, damages like these require professional expertise to overcome. Too often homeowners become convinced that conventional cleaning and drying methods can adequately correct the effects of water damages, but this is rarely the truth. Failure to remove the moisture absorbed through materials exposed to the water can result in structural weakness and secondary effects like mold growth.

Many situations only require our dedicated professionals to arrive quickly for focused water cleanup at your Orlando home. With our efficient equipment, we can often make short work of the spread of the moisture and restore any of the adverse effects present in the exposed materials. It is when the situation has not gotten addressed quickly that potential problems begin to occur.

From the moment that a water incident occurs, exposed materials begin to absorb the moisture. While a homeowner could believe they have sufficiently dealt with the situation by providing the appearance of a dry area, moisture can persist out of sight in the flooring materials, drywall, wall cavities, ceiling materials, and more. Our thermal imagery technology can help to identify moisture pockets that exist out of sight to steer our SERVPRO technicians to where our air movers and dehumidifiers should get set up.

In cases where moisture persists for days beyond the initial incident, the possibility of mold growth increases dramatically. Mold spores only require mild temperatures and damp areas to colonize, so without proper drying, the organism can seat and thrive within the organic materials throughout the affected area. This growth poses a significant risk to the structural integrity of the host materials as well as poses potential health effects for the occupants of the house, requiring professional remediation from our SERVPRO technicians.

While some water damage incidents might feel straightforward, homeowners should exercise caution when handling damp areas of their property. You can always depend on the experience and efficient equipment of our SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva rapid response team to help. Give SERVPRO a call anytime at (407) 788-3124.

Click here for more about Orlando.

SERVPRO Provides Our Orlando Homeowners with Rapid Water Loss Help to Mitigate Damages

11/13/2018 (Permalink)

ApplIance Water Flooding in Your Orlando Residence? Don't Call Mickey, Call SERVPRO

Refrigerator Troubles Could Spell Damage for Your Orlando Home

Appliances throughout your Orlando home make life more convenient all around, but that does not mean that they do not have the potential to cause some considerable damage without the appropriate servicing. Your refrigerator can prove especially problematic when it loses power or breaks a supply line to the ice maker. Both can leave a substantial pool of water to contend with, but our professionals can help.

Water damages can spread quickly throughout your Orlando kitchen, so contacting the team that can help should occur as promptly as possible. Our SERVPRO professionals offer 24-hour response for any emergency in your home and have the skills and equipment necessary to quickly remove the excess water from the affected area and work efficiently to dry up the damaged elements.

Once we arrive at your home, we begin by determining the source of the damage to your kitchen and working to resolve this issue by shutting down the supply line. With portable pumps, our professionals can quickly pull the water from the floors of the area. Hopefully, the volume of water can be vacuumed up with a smaller piece of equipment. Once this step gets completed, we can utilize our thermal imagery cameras to locate the most concentrated pockets of moisture to direct our drying equipment. This same camera can get used to determine if further efforts are necessary for specific damaged areas. We eventually finish the service with a walk through using a moisture meter to determine the verification of moisture content being restored to standard levels.

Since it does not take more than 2-3 days for mold spores to seat and colonize in a moist environment like your water damaged kitchen, resolving the dampness of the area is critical to avoiding secondary effects like mold growth. We combine efforts with air movers and dehumidifiers, which both play a role in helping rid the area of the current saturation and replace it with dry, heated air.

Even though your refrigerator is among the chief appliances in your home for convenience and functionality, it also can pose a threat of water damage if it malfunctions. Trust our SERVPRO of Apopka-Wekiva rapid response team to arrive quickly to help mitigate your losses and get the restoration process going as soon as possible. Give us a call today at (407) 788-3124.

Just too much to do in this town!

What Equipment Will Be Used for Water Damage Remediation?

3/25/2018 (Permalink)

When a water damage occurs many customers feel blindsided by the many steps involved in remedying the situation. The task of removing the water, drying out the home or business, and then putting things back into place can seem overwhelming in the initial moments of finding the loss. That’s where we can help. Our team of highly qualified technicians take great care in walking a customer through the steps necessary to dry and repair their property.

Many different types of equipment are utilized in the drying and restoration process. Here is a glimpse of what you can expect:

• 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.

Many customers are concerned about the cost of their power bill when they see the amount of equipment needed. This is an understandable concern. Your insurance adjuster can discuss how to handle this with you.

I have Water Damage! What Should I Do Now?

3/25/2018 (Permalink)

lets set a scenario and say that your in your home in Ocoee, FL and you've had a significant water damage at your home. Multiple rooms are flooded, there is water coming out of your light fixtures downstairs, and then only thing you've been able to do it turn the water to stop the leak. What do you do next? Who do you call? 

The good news is that you've turned off the water, so you have started the process of mitigating your loss. The following are some steps you can take to prevent secondary damage from occurring to your belongings while you wait for SERVPRO to arrive.

• Call SERVPRO so that we can send a technician to your site immediately.
• Contact your insurance company (if you haven't already) to report the loss and notify them that you have contacted SERVPRO and that we are in-route.
• Begin removing excess water by mopping and blotting
• Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs
• Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature
• Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting
• Do not use a household vacuum to remove water
• Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet, and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water
• Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpeting 

We our technicians arrive on site they will access the damages and being extracting water from porous surfaces. They will also place equipment and explain the drying process. If you have questions at any time during the process of drying your home or business, please call us! 

You CAN Save Wet Papers!

3/25/2018 (Permalink)

In our business, we generally encounter people with homes or businesses that are damaged by water. We spend our time drying these structures as quickly and efficiently as possible so that the owner can be back in them and functioning as normal as soon as possible. This includes drying of contents. Even though we work in areas of Florida like Orlando, Apopka, Ocoee and even Winter Garden its not that easy to dry structurens as fast as we would like. Interestingly, when we discuss contents, people generally think of furniture, clothing, appliances, and electronics. But what about documents? What if the damaged business is a doctor’s office, hospital, or lawyer’s office? Saving the documents in those files could determine a patient’s wellbeing or the attorney’s ability to win a case. Once the paper is wet can it be saved?

There are many factors to be considered when we look at paper and its ability to be restored. Some things that we have to determine are based on the kind of paper it is, did the ink already smear, has the paper changed shape? If the paper is determined to be salvageable, we can attempt to dry it with a process known as Vacuum Freeze Drying.

Vacuum freeze drying is done in steps. The first step requires that the documents be frozen solid in order to maintain their original form. Then they are placed in a freeze drying chamber and a vacuum makes sure to remove all air from the chamber. When the temperature and pressure reach optimum levels the vapors begin to release from the paper. The vapor is then collected on a condensing surface outside of the chamber that turns it back into ice. A final gradual temperature rise pulls off more vapors and releases bound moisture from the document.

This technique works well on many types of documents. Rest assured, if your home or business should ever suffer a water damage, we can help recover your building and ALL of your salvageable contents!

What Does Water Restoration Really Cost

2/22/2018 (Permalink)

When a customer has a water loss, they are often overcome with emotions. One of the biggest concerns is how much the loss or damage will cost. Typically we can't answer that question over the phone due to many unforeseen circumstances. This article found on home.costhelper.com/water-damage helps to shed some light on this difficult subject. Our team of professionals will be able to assist in restoration of any water damage, anytime, day or night. Give us a call today with any questions you might have. As always, coverage for a loss under an insurance claim would be determined by your insurance company's assigned adjuster.

Water or excess moisture can harm a home and its contents, and cleanup should be started as soon as possible.

Typical costs:

• The cost of water damage restoration is based on several factors. These include the size of the affected area, the extent of the damage, the materials and water type. There are three categories -- the least expensive to clean up is category 1, which is clean water from a faucet or supply pipe. Category 2 is gray wastewater with minor contaminants, such as overflow from a dishwasher or washing machine. Category 3 is black water, containing sewage or other toxic debris.
• Fixing a small area of water damage in a ceiling due to a leaky roof can be $100-$300 to patch the sheet rock, or $30-$50 for do-it-yourself materials -- not including the cost of fixing the roof and repainting the ceiling.
• Drying a flooded basement can cost $500-$10,000 or more, depending on the size of the basement, the depth of the flooding and the water type (clean, gray wastewater or black/toxic). Depending on where the appliance is located in the house, cleaning up after a faulty water heater, washing machine, dishwasher or air conditioner averages about $5,000, according to HomeOwnerNet.com^[1] .
• Damage from a burst water pipe can cost $5,000-$70,000 or more with an average insurance claim costing $15,000.
• If an entire house is flooded with storm water, the National Flood Insurance Program provides a flood damage simulator^[2] to predict the total cost based on the height of the water. For 1-4 inches of water, the estimated cost is $7,800. For 9-12 inches, the estimate is$18,930. At 18 inches, the estimated cost is $26,285..
• Water damage might be covered by insurance. Flood insurance typically covers damage from a natural disaster, when outside water or mud overflows an otherwise dry house. Homeowners insurance does not cover floods, but may cover water damage caused by minor individualized disasters, such as a hailstorm smashing a window or a broken water pipe spewing water -- as long as the problem wasn't caused by a lack of standard maintenance.

Water Damage is Bad for Your Health and Your Business!

2/21/2018 (Permalink)

Businesses throughout the Orlando area are constantly effected 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.

What Do Do If You Have A Sewage Leak

2/20/2018 (Permalink)

It’s late at night. The rain has been coming down for what seems like hours. Your toilet is flushed as lightning splits the sky, and suddenly you have sewage backing up in your home, onto your carpet, under your floors. This is not a dream….This is a NIGHTMARE! This is actually a reality for some. Half awake, dealing with an emergency what are you going to do? What can we salvage? What is safe to touch? First thing is first, sewage can be very dangerous. The most common negative factor in sewage is hepatitis B. This little thing can remain outside a living body for up to 50 days and cause a host of health issues. So the cleaning of your home or office must be done right, and done fast.

There are many items that can be cleaned by a professional from a sewage loss. Here is a Short list of what cannot be saved:

Some Electronics – Depending on the type and how far the contamination went down into the item will come into play. You cannot wipe off just the outside and say it is good to go. If sewage comes in contact with a power cord or a small transfer box it should be replaced. If the item is not replaced the contamination will fester inside and could cause a major fire hazard. This is a very serious issue that should be handled by a professional.

Soft Goods/Certain Textiles – Some can be cleaned depending on the material make, age and contamination level. Certain items like pillows or stuffed animals will need to be dissembled, filling removed, exterior cleaned and put back together with clean materials.

Engineered Wood/ Press wood - Any wood item that has been modified where contamination has come in contact with an unfinished surface cannot be cleaned. This is due to the many cavities that pressboard and engineered wood have. Natural/Solid wood can be treated and sanded to remove the affected areas, then re-stained to match existing colors.

Carpet/Pad – If at any time there was sewage that soaked through to the carpet or pad, the area must be removed! There is no way to guarantee that the carpet and pad are fully decontaminated.

If there are any questions, Please call your local SERVPRO and we will help.

How a Water Restoration Technician Assists After Disaster

1/31/2017 (Permalink)

A water restoration technician has an extremely important job when a home is affected by excess moisture. Certified professionals in the industry can quickly reverse the extensive damage that a flood or sewage backflow can cause, and save as many items as possible in the process. And when dealing with contaminated water, especially when it has pooled in the home, only certified professionals should be allowed to manage the cleanup. Attempting to perform cleanup efforts without expert assistance can lead to injury or illness, both of which can be severe.

A certified water restoration technician is on call around the clock. When an entire community has been affected a major disaster we can call in multiple teams to assist. As soon as a professional is on site, they will assess the situation and determine what items need immediate rescuing. If water has pooled in areas around the home, then pumps will be used to remove it.

The home will be dried using a configuration of heavy duty air movers and dehumidifiers, and while it dries, the firm will move through the building and look for any evidence of mold or pathogen contamination. If pathogens or mold are present, they will be eliminated using special procedures. This will ensure the home is safe to return to, and with concerted drying efforts, the building will as good as new once professionals have completed their work.

Water Damage Drying-What Is All This Equipment For?

1/4/2017 (Permalink)

Always prepared for your lose in Winter Garden!

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!

State of the Art Equipment for Water Damages

1/8/2016 (Permalink)

New air movers were recently added to our inventory

SERVPRO® knows that staying on the cutting edge of technology in our industry will help our customers the most. That's why we add new equipment to our inventory on a regular basis. We are proud to be able to offer the best to our customers. 

You may be wondering why this is importat. Check out this information found on aboveboardchamber.com: 

Many homeowners feel that if the water is removed, the work of water damage cleanup is done. This is because it is difficult to see or feel the extent of the saturation of water in building materials without moisture detection equipment used in the water damage industry. What follows is that either the homeowner will attempt to remove the water and simply place household fans around, with or without removing drywall; or they will tell the water damage restoration contractor to leave when the water is extracted and before equipment is placed. The paradox here is that these decisions are made to save time and money. In some cases, they may have done just that. However, in most cases, the resulting long term water damage is both costly and time consuming in addition to being inconvenient and stressful. Added to that is the fact that the cost of mold remediation consequent of an improperly dried flood damage will likely not be covered by insurance policies because the water damage or sewage damage was not dried properly to begin with.

You have probably noticed by now that it is not the water removal service that is the important part of taking care of water damage. It is actually the drying part that makes your home safe from long term mold or building material damage. In fact, there is no time to waste when it comes to drying a water damaged home. Mold begins to start growing within 24 hours and continues “growing like a weed” damaging building materials as it spreads.

Water damage restoration companies spend a tremendous amount of money on drying equipment for a very good reason. They dry quickly, effectively, and safely. After all, think about it, if we could just use household fans and a couple of blowers, we would save a tremendous amount of money on equipment. If I thought those types of equipment did an effective job, I would be all over saving money by purchasing those at less than $50 each rather than a $300-400 blower and $3000 dehumidifiers. However, I know the importance of having industrial equipment to keep your home safe and dry. Further, all of the equipment works together to both dry the structural materials (blowers), remove the moisture from the air as the wet materials dry and the water from them turns to vapor (dehumidifiers), and clean the air to prevent allergens that permeate through the air during drying (air scrubbers).