5 Useful Tips When Kitchen Water Damage Strikes Your Home!

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are available 24/7 for emergency water damage services!

Recover from kitchen water damage quickly with help from SERVPRO of North Bethesda!

Water damage is one of the most common problems that homeowners face. Kitchen water damage can be exceptionally costly and inconvenient since it affects one of the highest-trafficked areas in a home.

There are many reasons why kitchen water damage can occur, such as a faulty dishwasher or a leaking sink. If not addressed quickly, kitchen water damage can lead to mold growth and structural problems.

Water damage restoration is a necessary process to restore your home to its former glory. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of kitchen water damage and the steps you need to take to get your home back in order!

What is kitchen water damage, and what are the causes?

Kitchen water damage can occur for many reasons, but a leaky sink or dishwasher most commonly causes it. Water leaks out of these appliances and pools on the floor can quickly damage cabinets, flooring, and other kitchen fixtures. 

Nowadays, connected refrigerators can also cause kitchen water damage. If anything happens to the connection between the plumbing and the fridge, you may find water spilling onto the floor. 

Problems with the home's plumbing can also cause kitchen water damage. For example, pipes may leak water into the kitchen area if they become corroded or damaged. Additionally, water may back up and flood the kitchen if there is a clog in the drain line.

What are the consequences of kitchen water damage?

If kitchen water damage is not addressed quickly, it can lead to mold growth and structural damage. Mold spores are everywhere, and they can quickly grow into colonies when they come into contact with water. These colonies can damage your kitchen fixtures and cabinetry.

In addition to mold growth, kitchen water damage can cause the wood in your cabinets and floors to swell and warp, which can lead to cracks and breaks in the structure of your kitchen. If left unaddressed, water damage can seriously jeopardize the safety of your home.

How can kitchen water damage be prevented?

The best way to prevent kitchen water damage is to keep an eye on your appliances and plumbing fixtures. If you notice any leaks, make sure to address them right away. You should also regularly check your pipes for any signs of corrosion or damage.

It is also a good idea to invest in a water detection system. These systems can help you identify kitchen water damage early on before it has a chance to cause serious problems.

If you encounter kitchen water damage, it is vital to act quickly. The first step is to shut off the water source and call a professional water damage restoration company. These companies have the tools and experience necessary to quickly dry out your kitchen and repair any damage that has been done.

Water damage restoration

Water damage restoration is a necessary process to restore your home to its former glory. If your kitchen has been damaged by water, here are some steps you need to take:

1. Remove the water: The first step is to remove the water from the kitchen. We do this with specialized vacuums and moisture meters, making sure we get as much as we can.
2. Dry the kitchen: Once the water has been removed, you need to dry the kitchen as quickly as possible. We use industrial fans and dehumidifiers until the moisture is back to typical levels. 
3. Clean the kitchen: Once it is dry, it's time to clean it, including sanitizing all surfaces, appliances, and floors.
4. Repair the kitchen: If there is any damage to the kitchen, it needs to be repaired. This may include fixing leaks, replacing drywall, or painting.
5. Prevent mold growth: mold can start growing within 24-48 hours of water damage, so it's essential to take steps to prevent it. We use specialized cleaning products that prevent mold growth.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: water damage restoration experts!

With so many significant appliances hooked up to water in your kitchen, it's no surprise that kitchen water damage is one of the most common types of water damage we see. Kitchen water damage can occur for many reasons, such as a faulty dishwasher, a leaking sink, or a refrigerator.

If not addressed by professional water damage restoration, kitchen water damage can lead to warped floors and cabinets or mold growth.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda is a water damage restoration company with years of experience in kitchen water damage restoration. We use the latest tools and techniques to quickly dry out your kitchen and repair any damage that has been done. Reach out via our contact page, and we'll help you every step of the way!

Carpet Water Damage 101: Simple Recovery With Expert Help!

6/22/2022 (Permalink)

Contact SERVPRO for 24/7 emergency services!

Restoring carpet water damage depends on the type of water that enters your home.

Water damage can be a real pain to deal with; not only does the damage take time and money to repair, but the water can also lead to mold and bacteria growth.

In the worst cases, water damage can even lead to structural damage to your home.

Water damage restoration is a must if you're unlucky enough to experience this type of damage. This article will outline how the experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda handle carpet water damage and provide information about when you need a replacement carpet.

What is water damage?

Water damage can be any damage caused by water, including water from a leaky roof or pipe, flooding, or even an overflowing sink. Water damage can cause many problems, from ruined furniture to structural damage to your home.

The most common causes of water damage we see are:

• Leaking or burst pipes
• Heavy rains and flooding
• Overflowing sinks, toilets, or bathtubs
• leaks in the roof or walls

What are the categories of water damage?

There are three categories of water damage:

• Category 1: This is the least harmful category of water damage and includes water from a clean source, such as a leaking faucet or roof.
• Category 2: This category has more contaminants than Category 1 and is water from a dirty source, such as water from dishwashers or washing machines.
• Category 3: This is the most harmful category of water damage and includes highly contaminated water, such as floodwater containing sewage.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda handles carpet water damage

If you're unlucky enough to experience carpet water damage, it's essential to know what to do. The experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda are specially trained to handle carpet water damage and can quickly assess and repair the damage.

In most cases, the first step is to remove the water. Restoration experts can do this with a shop vac or special extraction equipment.

Once the water has been removed, the carpet will need to be dried. This is done with a combination of fans and dehumidifiers.

Once the carpet is dry, it will be cleaned and disinfected. In some cases, damaged carpet may need to be replaced.

When do you need to replace your carpet after water damage?

There are three primary instances when you will likely need to replace your carpet after water damage.

The first two relate to the type of water that caused the carpet water damage in the first place. If the water belongs to category 2 or category 3, you'll likely need replacement carpeting. Replacement is often required because the water that caused the damage has bacteria; disinfection is usually more costly than replacement.

The last instance when carpet water damage requires replacement is whenever there's mold growth on or under the carpet. Mold can grow after twenty-four hours; after this amount of time, there's a good chance you'll need a replacement carpet. We often see mold issues when people discover carpet water damage after returning from vacation when there's plenty of time for mold growth. Our expertise is invaluable in restoring the property to its previous condition.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: let us help with your carpet water damage!

If you're unlucky enough to experience carpet water damage, it's important to know what to do. The experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda are specially trained to handle carpet water damage and can quickly assess and repair the damage.

In most cases, the first step is to remove the water. Then, we ensure the moisture levels are back to normal with a combination of dehumidifiers and fans. Finally, we clean the carpet, so it's back to its previous condition, "Like it never even happened."

Sometimes, in the worst-case scenario, your carpet needs replacement. We can help you determine if that's the case.

The bottom line: if you experience carpet water damage, call SERVPRO of North Bethesda! We're here to help 24/7, 365 days a year.

Water heater burst? Important 1st step: Shut Off the Water!

5/12/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the water damage professionals at SERVPRO for emergency services!

Our water damage restoration team can help you get back on your feet after a water heater burst!

Like most people, you probably don't think about your water heater until it's too late. And by then, it's because there's water spewing all over the floor.

A water heater burst can cause a lot of damage quickly, so it's important to know what to do if it happens to you.

This article will outline what to do when you experience a water heater burst and discuss the importance of water damage restoration. With the help of the professionals from SERVPRO of North Bethesda, you can make your property "Like it never even happened."

What are the first steps when you have a water heater burst?

The first thing you should do is turn off the water in your home, which will help prevent any further damage. Then, you'll want to assess the situation and see how bad the damage is. Take pictures as evidence for when you deal with the insurance company.

Once you've determined the extent of the damage, it's time to start the water damage restoration process. This is where SERVPRO of North Bethesda comes in: we're water damage restoration experts here to help.

Our expert estimates are crucial in insurance claims processing, helping you get money in your hands when you need it for repairs.

What is the water damage restoration process?

The water damage restoration process can be complex, but we're here to help simplify it for you. The first step is assessing the damage and determining the best course of action. We'll then extract any water from your home and begin the drying process. Once your home is dry, we'll start the cleaning and repair process. And finally, we'll restore any damaged belongings.

Potential dangers of a water heater burst

Water heater bursts can be dangerous, and there are several things you need to watch out for when facing one on your property.

The most obvious danger is the water itself. For example, a water heater burst can release gallons of water in a short amount of time, which can cause severe water damage.

Another danger is the water heater. If the water heater explodes, it can cause serious injuries. A water heater burst is often more of a rupture than an explosion, but the potential still exists.

Finally, a water heater burst can also cause fires because of the potential for damaged electrical systems.

Long-term effects of a water heater burst

If you experience a water heater burst, the water damage can have long-lasting effects. For example, if the water soaks into drywall or carpeting, it can cause mold growth, which is difficult to remove.

Additionally, water damage can cause structural damage to your home. For example, water-damaged drywall will need replacement, and water-damaged floors may need to be repaired or replaced.

Finally, a water heater burst can be costly. In addition to the cost of repairs, you may also have to pay for water damage restoration services.

Recover from a water heater burst with SERVPRO of North Bethesda

If you experience a water heater burst, the most important thing is to take action quickly. The first steps include shutting off the water supply and notifying your insurance company.

There are also some potential dangers to be aware of, such as electrocution and water damage. In addition, there can be long-term effects from the sudden water damage, like mold and structural issues.

You can best protect your home by having a water heater burst prevention plan. This plan may include regular maintenance and inspections and knowledge about the location of water shut-off valves. You can help minimize the damage from a water heater burst by being prepared.

If your property does experience a water heater burst and you're facing water damage, give the experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda a call. Our water damage restoration experts are ready and available to make your property "Like it never even happened."

Have a water damaged ceiling? Take These 5 Effective Steps

4/7/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO when you find water spots on the ceiling!

Finding a water damaged ceiling can lead to further damage if not taken care of right away!

If you've recently discovered water damage on your ceiling, it's important to take the necessary steps to repair it as soon as possible. Water damaged ceilings are a common problem in homes across the United States and can often be caused by leaking pipes or roofing. If left untreated, water damage can lead to more severe problems like mold growth and structural damage.

This article will discuss the early signs of a water damaged ceiling and what steps you should take when you discover it. We will also provide tips on finding a reliable ceiling repair contractor.

Signs of a water damaged ceiling

Water damaged ceilings can often be subtle and hard to detect. However, here are some of the most common signs of water damage on a ceiling:

• Bubbling or peeling paint. Water can get behind the coating on your ceiling and cause it to peel or bubble.
• Water stains. If water has been leaking for a while, you will likely see water stains on the ceiling.
• Wet spots. If water is constantly dripping down from the ceiling, you will see wet areas on the floor or furniture below.
• Mold growth. Mold often starts to grow in the hidden corners of a water damaged ceiling.

If you notice any of these signs, it's crucial to take action by calling the water damage restoration professionals at SERVPRO of North Bethesda.

What steps should you take when you discover a water damaged ceiling?

If you discover water damage to your ceiling, there are a few steps you should take:

1. Find the source of the water and turn it off. For example, a water damaged ceiling beneath a bathroom could be from a leaking toilet or shower, so not using these can prevent further damage.
2. Assess the damage. Try to determine the extent of the water damage. If the water has been standing for a while, you may have mold or other water-related problems.
3. Contain the water. Set a bucket underneath your water damaged ceiling to collect any excess water. Clean up any spilled water on your floors.
4. Move or remove water damaged materials. Move furniture and carpets from beneath the water damaged ceiling and separate any items already wet so they can dry.
5. Call the professionals at SERVPRO of North Bethesda. Water damaged ceilings can often lead to even more damage if not taken care of properly. Ceiling repair is not always a simple task, and it's best to leave it to the professionals. They will be able to assess the damage and tell you how they will make it "Like it never even happened."

Finding a reliable contractor for your water damaged ceiling repair

When it comes to water damaged ceiling repair, it's crucial to find a reliable contractor you can trust. Unfortunately, not all contractors are created equal, and some may try to take advantage of your situation.

Here are a few tips on how to find a reliable contractor for your water damaged ceiling repair:

• Ask for referrals from friends or family.
• Check the contractor's reviews online.
• Get estimates from multiple contractors.
• Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured.

SERVPRO of North Bethesda is a reliable water damage restoration company with years of experience in the industry. We understand the importance of taking care of water damaged ceilings quickly and efficiently, and we're here to help!

SERVPRO of North Bethesda: our water damage experts are here for you!

If water damage is left untreated, it can lead to more serious problems like mold growth and structural damage. So if you notice any of the signs we've outlined above or come across a water damaged ceiling in your home, take action right away and call SERVPRO of North Bethesda for help! Our water damage experts are here for you 24/7 with their years of experience. We understand the importance of taking care of water damage quickly and efficiently, so don't hesitate to call us!

Wet Insulation? 2 Effective Methods Experts Use To Help

2/24/2022 (Permalink)

Contact the professionals at SERVPRO to handle your water restoration disaster!

The water damage professionals at SERVPRO of North Bethesda can help when you discover wet insulation in your home!

If you've ever experienced a flood in your home, you know just how devastating it can be. Not only is your property damaged, but often your possessions as well. One of the less apparent consequences of flooding is water damage to your insulation. 

If wet insulation isn't dried out or replaced, it can lead to all sorts of problems, including mold growth. If your home has been flooded, particularly from a roof leak, be sure to inspect your insulation for signs of water damage. Soggy insulation needs to be replaced immediately, while a drying strategy can take care of damp insulation.

This article will discuss the dangers of wet insulation and what you can do when you discover wet insulation on your property.

Risks from wet insulation

When wet insulation is not dried out or replaced, it can lead to several risks, including:

• Mold growth: One of the most severe risks associated with wet insulation is mold growth. 
• Damage to your home: If wet insulation isn't dried out or replaced, it can lead to damage to your home's structure, including damage to the roof, walls, and foundation.
• Reduced energy efficiency: Wet insulation can also lead to a decrease in your home's energy efficiency, meaning you may see an increase in your monthly energy bills.

Wet insulation is more common than you think.

If you think this sounds like an exaggeration, consider the following: 

1. Flooding is one of the most common causes of water damage.
2. Wet insulation often goes undetected until it's too late because no visible signs appear on its surface.
3. Wet insulation can lead to water running behind walls and ceilings, where its presence may go unnoticed for days or weeks before anyone realizes anything is wrong. Worse yet, little black spots can appear on the ceiling or walls when you have wet insulation. 

Address wet insulation needs as soon as possible to prevent wet insulation from ruining your home. If you have wet insulation, contact water damage professionals; they can either dry it out or remove it and replace it with new insulation.

2 ways experts deal with wet insulation

If you have wet insulation, it needs to be taken care of as soon as possible. Experts do this one one two ways:

Drying out your wet insulation

Experts can use a commercial dehumidifier, fans, or a wet/dry vacuum. These are the best tools for drying out wet insulation, as they will remove the moisture from the air and insulation quickly and efficiently. However, for soggy insulation, this might not be enough.

Removing and replacing your wet insulation

If the wet insulation can't be dried out, it needs to be replaced; experts can remove the wet insulation and replace it with new insulation. There are a few different ways that professionals can do this, depending on the situation:

• Blow-in insulation: This is a popular option for replacing wet insulation. Blow-in insulation is a type of insulation that is installed by blowing it into the wall or attic space. It's quick and easy to install, and it can help restore your home's energy efficiency.
• Spray foam insulation: Another option for replacing wet insulation is spray foam insulation. This type of insulation is applied using a spraying gun, and it quickly seals the cracks and holes in your home's exterior. It's an effective way to prevent moisture from entering your home.
• Batt insulation: This is the traditional type of insulation installed between the studs in your walls. It's a good option for wet insulation, as water damage professionals can quickly install it.

Let the experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda help with your wet insulation!

Wet insulation is more common than you think. Flooding can lead to wet and soggy insulation, which often goes undetected until it's too late because no visible signs appear on its surface.

Wet insulation has a variety of risks associated with it, including mold growth and damage to your home's structure if not dried out or replaced.

Luckily there are professionals who specialize in wet insulation that can help! For help with your wet insulation, contact water damage experts like SERVPRO of North Bethesda today so they may dry it out or remove the wet material for replacement. You'll be happy you did when these experts make your property "Like it never even happened."

The Characteristics of Water Damage

2/24/2020 (Permalink)

We will use a variety of equipment depending on the scope of the water damage!

Water damage can occur in the blink of an eye from a wide variety of sources. No matter the cause, our expert technicians here at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor can identify the source and type of water damage that has occurred and will work promptly to resolve the issue to restore your home or business to its normal state and give you peace of mind as soon as possible. 

If you are in the unfortunate position that your home or business has suffered any extent of water damage, it’s very important that you give us a call immediately. At SERVPRO, our highly trained professionals are ready to respond to the situation immediately to remove the water as quickly as possible. Whether coming from a burst pipe or flood moves extremely quickly and can damage an entire building’s contents if not dealt with right away. Chemicals and other contaminants in water can leave surfaces permanently tarnished or stained and can also open up the opportunity for mold and bacteria growth. 

The long term effects of water damage include the increased risk of allergens in the area, mold and bacteria growth, as well as an unpleasant odor. Standing water in any location left unattended can also create issues within your property by warping floors, splitting frames, and leading to structural failure. Give us a call immediately and let the experts here at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor ensure your home or business is properly inspected, repaired, and restored to prevent extensive damage. Identifying the water damage quickly will allow our trained water damage professionals to help significantly reduce the cost and the time needed to repair and restore your home or business. 

There may be times when water damage may not be apparent as the source may not be visible until it’s too late. Even the smallest leak can turn into a massive problem if left unattended and unnoticed for long enough. 

Firstly when dealing with any water damage, we ensure all areas are adequately dried. We use a variety of equipment depending on the scope of the water damage from air movers to dehumidifiers to force dry any affected areas so that they may be adequately cleaned and repaired and to minimize further damage. When you give our water damage professionals here at SERVPRO a call, we will first identify and stop the source of water on the scene, determine the level of damage and contamination, and begin the drying and repair process. By quickly removing all moisture from the premises, the chance for mold and bacteria growth is significantly limited as well as the potential for any further damage by standing water to be caused. 

If you are in the unfortunate position of having water damage in your home or business, give our experts at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor a call at (301) 255-0019, and we will make it our top priority to restore your property as quickly as possible - because we’re faster than any size disaster. 

What is Foundation Water Damage & How to Protect Against it

2/17/2020 (Permalink)

What are you doing to protect your home's foundation?

Your property’s foundation is arguably the most important part of its entire structure. It’s what it sits on and gives it sturdiness and stability and keeps it from slowly sinking into the soft earth below. If you asked most people what they’re doing to protect their homes’ foundation, unfortunately, most of them would probably say they were doing nothing. The secret for the longevity of the foundation of a home is keeping water as far away from it as possible. Water damage at the foundation level can lead to cracks and shifts in the foundation, which ultimately weakens it and can compromise the structural safety of your home or business.  

Here are some tips to help avoid water damage on your foundation:

Clean Your Gutters & Use Downspouts

It might be unclear at first what gutters have to do with a building’s foundation, but it comes down to water runoff. The purpose of gutters is to transport water from the roof to the ground and away from the building. If the gutters are clogged either at the top of the roof or at the ground, it can cause water to build up and collect on the ground around the perimeter of your home or business. This can lead to trouble down the line when water seeps into the foundation and weakens it and the surrounding soil. Downspouts are also important to use in your gutter system to ensure that runoff water is actually being directed away from the base of the building.  

Place a Sump Pump in Your Basement

Groundwater is something that may always penetrate even the best water damage preventative maintenance and seep into the basement of your property. Once water collects in a basement it can be very difficult to remove and allowing it to sit and puddle will only lead to further and more severe foundation water damage. A sump pump can be installed in these below-grade areas to quickly pump out water in the event that the area floods to prevent water damage. In the event that your basement has flooded and you do not have a sump pump installed or floodwaters overwhelm your pump, our highly experienced professionals at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor are available and ready to immediately service any water damage emergency 24/7.  

Keep Soil Around Your Home from Drying Out

As important as it is to keep excess water away from the ground around your property’s foundation, it is also important to ensure that it does not get too little water either. During periods of dry time with less rain and moisture, the soil around your home can dry out and shrink in size. When a heavy rain finally does come, this can cause the soil around your foundation to quickly swell and apply pressure in areas of the foundation that can lead to extensive damage. A way to maintain this is to water the soil directly around your property during long periods of dryness to prevent the grade from shrinking too much. 

In the event your home or basement floods, it is best to contact a company of professionals to quickly respond and properly help the situation. Give us here at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor a call at (301) 255-0019 for any water damage restoration emergency and we will respond right away. 

The Best Way to Protect Your Home from Water Damage

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

Windows can be caulked to prevent snow and other moisture from penetrating inside.

Dealing with water damage in your home or business can be overwhelming and costly. The average bill to repair and restore water damage to a home or business is thousands of dollars and damage can be anywhere from the basement to the roof. You should be especially aware if you live in a flood zone, however, water damage can still occur any time and anywhere around your property. At SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor, we pride ourselves on our industry expertise with handling water damage and restoring your home or business to its original state. Here’s how you can best protect your home from water damage to be prepared year-round. 

It’s first best to know the most common causes of water damage to know what to look for and where to look if your home or business suffers water damage. Here’s a list of some common cause of major water damage: 

• Roof damage (broken/missing shingles, cracked flashing, etc.)
• Burst or leaking pipes
• Leaking household appliances such as laundry machines or dishwashers 
• Extreme weather and floods 

Some things to look for when trying to determine if there is water damage in your home or business are: 

• Warped or sagging ceilings 
• Peelings paint/wallpaper
• A musty smell of mold and moisture 
• Warped floors
• Water pooling in areas of your lawn

The big secret to best protecting your property from water damage and other damages is how you maintain it. Inspect your roof, it takes the forefront of the elements 24/7 year-round. Your roof should be inspected periodically to ensure all shingles, caulk, and flashing are in place and undamaged. Your gutters should also be maintained to ensure that proper drainage is available to water running off your roof. If your gutters are clogged and water cannot properly escape your roof, it can pool on the roof or around your foundation, leading to potentially severe water damage. Your windows can be caulked to prevent snow and other moisture from penetrating inside during inclement weather. This also applies to indoor areas that may be exposed to water as the kitchen and bathroom by caulking things like sinks, tubs, and backsplashes so that water cannot get into the walls of your property. The best sealant to use for these indoor areas is one that is 100% silicon. Silicon caulking is waterproof, doesn’t crack over time and is flexible, unlike acrylic caulk which can shrink over time allowing water through. 

While all these steps may be taken to prevent water damage from occurring, it cannot be guaranteed that water damage can be prevented. Things like natural disasters and floods occur and water damage can still occur. However, no matter what event may occur, you can call our trained water damage restoration professionals here at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor and we will make it our top priority to get your home or business back to its original state so that you can take a breath. No one wants to deal with water damage to their property, SERVPRO will be there for you. 

SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor at (301) 255-0019 is ready to help local homeowners with flood damage. They have the advanced equipment and expertise to turn the loss around and make it, “Like it never even happened.”

How to Spot Water Damage Pt 1

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

A moisture meter in action

There are many signs that your home or business has been damaged by water that can range from a burst pipe spraying into a hallway to something as subtle as a small dripping leak that goes unnoticed for months. No matter the source, water damage is crucial to respond quickly to restore anything damaged and prevent any further damage from being done. The problem sometimes with spotting water damage is that it isn’t always apparent so you may not even realize you have a problem until it gets out of hand and becomes a bigger problem. A professional water damage restoration company like us here at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor can detect most issues with specialized equipment and trained professional technicians.

How to Spot Water Damage Pt 2

2/7/2020 (Permalink)

A pool of water can indicate an indoor leak or a burst pipe.

Here are six simple ways to spot potential water damage: 

Pooling/Standing Water 

A pool of water can indicate an indoor leak or a burst pipe or a number of issues related to water damage. If you notice moisture or water collecting in any area that doesn’t go away or gets larger, you may have a leak or seepage somewhere. There may also be times you see water pooling in areas of your lawn. If you see this it may indicate a rise in the level of groundwater usually after heavy rainfall or a burst pipe underground which could result in significant foundation water damage. 

Smell

Areas that have been exposed to moisture for long periods of time tend to have a very distinct musky, moldy odor. If you notice any areas in your home or business that have the strange odor of mold or moisture, you may have water damage somewhere not immediately visible. The professionals here at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor are trained to clean, sanitize, and deodorize your home after water damage resulting in a lasting odor. 

Coldness

Frequently along with the musky smell, areas that are damaged by water are usually noticeably cooler than other areas due to moisture in the walls and other materials evaporating. If there are colder areas around your home or business that are cooler than others, check for some of these other signs of water damage as well to determine if you may have a leak or seepage somewhere. 

Discoloration 

A very easy to spot indicator of water damage is discoloration of materials like the walls and ceilings of your property. Standing water in a ceiling will eventually seep through the insulation and drywall and leave a yellowish stained spot where the water has collected. Over time these areas can sag if they’re large enough and even collapse if enough water has collected and sat long enough. 

Mold

Mold can be caused by many sources of moisture, and things such as bathroom condensation may cause mold that wouldn’t be extensive enough to require water damage restoration, however, mold in any area of your home is any indicator that there is too much-standing moisture that needs to be removed. Our professional technicians here at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor are specially trained in water damage restoration and can properly locate and remove all sources of mold in your home or business. 

Sound 

The final and more subtle sign of water damage to your property is sound. While sounds of moving water, dripping, and creaking may all be sounds of a perfectly normal plumbing system, it is important to keep an ear out for changes in these sounds to identify if there are any problems with your plumbing system or if there is a leak somewhere in your home or business. 

In the event your home or basement floods, it is best to contact a company of professionals to quickly respond and properly help the situation. Give us here at SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor a call at (301) 255-0019 for any water damage restoration emergency and we will respond right away. 

What to Expect In the Water Restoration Process

2/3/2020 (Permalink)

This Marriott had a sprinkler head brake and called SERVPRO to clean up the damage.

Since every flood and water damage scenario is a little different, each one requires a unique solution tailored to the specific conditions. However, the overall water restoration process remains the same. The process begins when you give us a call. SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor is available 24 hours a day for any size water emergency. 

Immediate action is crucial when facing flooding or water damage and a delay of just a few hours can drastically increase the severity of water damage left behind. While water damage can be chaotic and traumatic to deal with, SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor has the expertise and experience to help you through a water damage disaster. 

When you give us a call, we will ask you questions to assess the situation and determine what equipment and resources will be necessary to bring. Upon arrival at the site of water damage, we begin with a detailed inspection and damage assessment of your home or property to determine the scope of the water damage to create the best plan of action. After inspection, we will identify the source of moisture in your home or business and the type of water. When dealing with water damage, there are three types of water according to their level of contamination: “Clean Water”, “Gray Water”, and “Black Water” are used to classify how contaminated the water is so that our trained SERVPRO Professionals can restore your property to industry guidelines. 

The next step of the water damage restoration process is the actual water removal. After the damage assessment and the source of moisture have been stopped, the water extraction process may begin. If the water damage is great enough to call for extensive restoration or cleaning, SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor can assist with an organized and efficient move-out to ensure your belongings are protected from any further damage. Our highly trained technicians will then begin the water removal process immediately once the surrounding area is cleared. Depending on the level of damage, our technicians may use equipment varying from industrial wet/dry vacuums to powerful submersible pumps. 

Once all water has been successfully removed, the drying and dehumidification process is next. While floors and walls may appear to be dry, they will be wet to the touch as most building materials such as wood and drywall retain water once submerged. Our Professionals use measurements, temperature, and humidity to best determine how much equipment such as dehumidifiers and air movers will be needed to dry your home or business. 

Most of your home or business will require professional cleaning following water damage from the floor to the ceiling. After monitoring the drying process, our technicians will clean your property’s structure, furniture, upholstery, clothing, and any other restorable items or property damaged by water. Following any kind of water damage, your home or business will require cleaning, odor removal, and sanitization depending on the scenario. Our technicians here at SERVPRO North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor are trained to deodorize, sanitize, and dispose of damaged materials in your home or property. 

The final step following a water damage disaster is the restoration of your home or business to its pre-water damage condition. This may involve minor repairs such as replacing drywall to major repairs such as the reconstruction of various rooms or areas. Our professionals will provide immediate protective measures during the water damage restoration process such as tarps and will handle rebuilding all affected areas. We are a company qualified to handle the initial damage and rebuilding of the area afterward, and can guarantee to get any building back up to full functionality. 

SERVPRO of North Bethesda / Aspen Hill / Rossmoor at (301) 255-0019 is ready to help local homeowners with flood damage. They have the advanced equipment and expertise to turn the loss around and make it, “Like it never even happened.”