The Dangers of Thunderstorms

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Weather Service, a severe thunderstorm is one in which there are winds 58 mph or greater and ¾ inch hail or larger, and at times there may be tornadoes.  There are nearly 1,800 thunderstorms occurring at any one moment around the world, 100,000 of those happen in the United States. An estimated 10% of those 100,000 storms are considered to be severe.

Facts and Myths About Lightning

• MYTH: “Heat lightning” occurs after very hot summer days and poses no threat.
• FACT: “Heat lightning” is lightning that is occurring in a distant thunderstorm that is too far away to hear its associated thunder.
• MYTH: If it is not raining, there is no threat from lightning
• FACT: Lightning often strikes outside of heavy rain and may occur as far as ten miles away from rainfall.
• MYTH: Rubber soles of shoes and tires on a car will protect your from being stuck by lightning.
• FACT: This is false; these items proved NO protection from lightning. However, you are much safer in a vehicle than outside during a thunderstorm if you are not touch the metal.
• MYTH: In a pinch, it is safe to seek shelter under a tree.
• FACT: Contrary to common belief, it is not safe or advised to be under a tree during a storm, it is the second leading cause of injury. It is best to get indoors or crouch low to the ground.

How to Keep Safe:

• At the very first sign of a thunder or a storm, take action. Go indoors or seek shelter. 
• Stay away from windows and doors. Do not use a landline and unplug appliances, computers and other electronics. 
• Avoid showering, doing laundry or dishes. 
• Monitor and obey instructions of public safety officials. 
• If you are outside, shelter in a vehicle. Stay put and avoid touching metal. 
• If you are in an open area, go to a low place and stay away from trees.
• If you are on the water, get to land immediately. 
• Stay indoors at least 30 minutes after the last thunder or lightning.

What to do After a Thunderstorm:

• Continue to monitor emergency information.
• Call 911 to report downed power lines or gas leaks. If you suspect leaks in your home, go outdoors immediately. 
• Check your home for damage. Document any damage and contact your insurance company immediately.
• If you suspect water damage, call SERVPRO® of North Augusta immediately.

If your home has received storm damage, give SERVPRO® of North Augusta a call! We can perform board ups, tarp roofs, extract water – anything you may need to get your home back in order. Our expert call is ready to help, you can contact us at 706-750-0200.

What to do After a Storm

6/7/2022 (Permalink)

Storms are ever present in the United States and there is a chance that your home may be affected by hail, wind, rain, tree damage, and other debris at some point. Not experiencing substantial damage during a storm truly seems to just be the luck of the draw, and only time will tell when you may experience this type of loss at the worst of times.

What do I do After Storm Damage?

If you experience severe storm damage, the first thing we would recommend you do is reach out to SERVPRO® of North Augusta as soon as possible. We have provided emergency storm damage services to homes and businesses for many years. Below are some of the mitigation needs we have seen and taken care of after a storm:

• Exterior Damage: Wind, hail, and tree debris can break your windows, strip your siding, and even put holes in your roof. There may be a possibility that the openings have been compromised and need to be secured as well as protected to prevent further damage. If a roof has been damaged to a point it is leaking or worse, we can provide a temporary roof cover to prevent additional water intrusion.
• Obstructive Debris: Can include large tree branches falling into your home or roof and interferes with your daily life. I could also affect the structural element of your home as well as shatter the glass in your windows. No matter what it is, the debris will need to be removed for the safety of your home and family.
• Flooding: With relentless rain, the chances of a flooding is substantially higher, and difficult for a sump pump to keep up with, even if it is from a roof leak. We have specialized equipment that is capable of removing water from hard surfaces and carpeting, preventing additional losses from occurring.

SERVPRO® of North Augusta is available to help with your emergency property damage. Emergency situations are our specialty, and our qualified teams are committed to the safety of everyone involved. If you are in need of our services, please contact us at 706-750-0200.

Emergencies Call for the Esporta

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

If you have experienced major water damage due to a storm, give our professionals a call at 706-750-0200 to have your sentimental items restored.

At SERVPRO® of Augusta, our team and our capabilities align with being a One-Stop-Shop. What is a One-Stop-Shop? SERVPRO® offers all services needed to restore your property to preloss condition, helping to save valuable time and effort. At SERVPRO® of Augusta, not only are we equipped with the best industry equipment to restoring your property, but our teams operate with a spirit of excellence and the most advanced industry equipment. One industry advanced equipment that helps us to achieve our goal to being a One-Stop-Shop is our Esporta Wash System. The Esporta Wash System is located at our Evans facility, making ease of access and use a fast process that benefits our customers.

After an emergency loss such as fire damage or a sewage, textiles such as bedding, drapes, clothing, and other soft contents could be grossly affected. Our Esporta Wash System helps to eliminate contaminants such as microbial growth, sewage, dirty water, soot, and smoke odors from the textiles thus helping to salvage the items. The Esporta is especially helpful in restoring irreplaceable, sentimental items and works unlike a regular residential wash system.

Unlike Any Other

Unlike a residential washer and dryer, the Esporta Wash System caters to the restorative industry by helping to clean, sanitize, and efficiently dry contents affected by fire or water damage. The Esporta does not use agitation to clean contents, but rather through using a complex combination of detergents or “wash recipes” for specific fabrics, materials, and structures of the items being restored. Using the Esporta process, this retain the integrity of the textile fibers and is especially useful for delicate items. Having an Esporta Wash System at our facility helps to be more efficient in restoring items and allows customers the ability to have 24-hour turn around time on sets of items they can not live without such as work uniforms or children’s clothing.

How We Know Its Clean

For contents that have been affected from sewage, it is important to know that your items are sanitized. How do we know? ATP testing. ATP testing is the testing of living organisms on the fibers of the textiles that indicate how soiled an item is. Before testing, we take a controlled ATP sample to test to find how affected the load is. Then, after the Esporta cleans the affected items, our team selects 3 items for ATP testing to assure that the entire load has been sanitized throughout. Lastly, items are then organized and hand-delivered by to you, our customer.

Let the Esporta work towards restoring your property. Our team is ready to help with any disaster, including restoring your textiles affected from fire, sewage, or mold. Give our team a call to schedule at 706-750-0200.

Highland Avenue Summerville Storm Damages

1/26/2022 (Permalink)

Summerville Highland Avenue Storm Damages

In historical Augusta, GA, early establishment of the Summerville residential district near Augusta University began in the late 18^th century. When storm damages affect these historical properties, the goal for SERVPRO® of Augusta crews is to always retain the beauty, integrity, and historical value of the homes. When approaching a storm disaster for a historical home, our goal is to be as least invasive as possible while still executing drying goals and preventing secondary damages.

SERVPRO understands the unique process for restoring historical homes like those found in the Summerville residential district as our experience and approach to restoring each business, home, school, and government building is never the same. Each property desires their own unique restorative approach, thus why the SERVPRO difference includes restoring with meticulous detail for historical properties and has become a SERVPRO of Augusta specialty.

Mature Trees Pose a Threat

Recently, we restored a major roof damage for a Highland Avenue home in Summerville. After a microburst wind swept through the area, a massive tree fell on the roof causing major damages. Luckily, through working with their insurance, we were able to seamlessly inspect the roof, temporarily tarp the roof overnight until the storms calmed, and the following day began repairs all before water damages in the attic could begin.

Summerville’s historical homes often have mature trees that can pose a threat during storms. Massive mature trees with large overhanging branches can clog gutters and cause rainwater to overflow under the eaves and into roof cavities. More often than this, large, weak tree branches can snap and pierce through rooves and cause damages in attic spaces that can occasionally go undetected.

Preventing Future Storm Damage

Prevention is the best step is protecting your home. Microbursts are unexpected weather conditions, but you can prepare your home by not only listening to weather warnings, but by being aware of the mature trees that pose the biggest “risk” to your property. Occasionally checking for weak, dead tree limbs is helpful in protecting your roof and gutters. Becoming more mindful of loose yard decorations or chairs and tables next to large glass windows.

Additionally, it is helpful to seasonally keep your roof up to code by making sure to replace any damaged or missing shingles. This better protects you against storm damage and ultimately saves money through preventing extensive damages should a storm arise.

Need Expert Help? SERVPRO teams are ready year-round, 24-hours a day to help restore your Summerville home. Our team of experts are ready to help, Call us at 706-750-0200.

Avoiding Storm Damages for Your Home

11/30/2021 (Permalink)

Ten Easy StepstoProtect Your HomefromStorm Damage 

1. Replace missing or damaged shingles.

When a shingle is damaged it is much more cost efficient to replace it immediately. As waiting until the damages are so severe that you must replace an entire section of roof, or the whole roof.

2. Repair or replace loose siding.

The same rule of thumb applies here with siding as it does roofs.

3. Ensure proper sealing of doors and windows

If your home isn't properly weather-proof, seeping water can pose a huge threat.

4. Ensure water flow is directed away from your home.

Make sure all water is flowing away from your home and towards a ditch, drain, or other proper retention area.

5. Keep your gutters clear.

Clearing gutters for free flow of water and proper downspouts are helpful in extending the life of the foundation of your home. Water damage by flooding is one of the quickest ways to devalue your home. Making sure the gutters are clear is the first line of defense in avoiding water damage.

6. Check for loose or damaged fence posts.

Wind can be an unexpected danger. Posts that are not nailed down could be a liability. Checking your fence posts is typically easy, Tip: Walk to each post and give a firm shake to each one to check for any needed repairs.

7. Regularly trim your trees.

Tree limbs can damage your home, and surrounding neighbor’s homes. Keeping trees trimmed and well managed is an excellent way to protect your roof and windows.

8. Keep yoursump pumpin working order.

Spring often brings a lot of excess rain, so before rain season starts, check that your sump pump is in proper working order. If you want to feel secure, having a backup sump pump is a guaranteed way to avoid flooding in your home.

9. Walk around your property.

If you know a storm is coming, take some time to check through basic maintenance steps to protect your home. Identify any items around your property that could pose as projectiles. These items could include lawn furniture, tools, or yard debris. Avoid damage by moving potential threats to a garage or shed to be safely stored.

10. Keep a generator on hand.

A bad storm could potentially knock out power to your home for hours or even days. Having a generator on standby could save you time and money ensuring you don’t have to throw away refrigerated foods or create water leaks from unpowered appliances.  

Storm season brings a lot of uncertainty, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing you can do about it. If a disaster does occur, feel safe knowing you can call SERVPRO of Augusta at 706-750-0200.

December Fun Starts in Augusta - Stay Safe!

11/1/2021 (Permalink)

Starting in December, Christmas bells will ring, and Santa Clause will come to town!

Augusta is full of holiday cheer and activities for families. Evans Towne Center Park will have an annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, Lights in the South will be fun for all ages, the Augusta 5k will be in full swing, hunting for the perfect Christmas tree on Washington Road in Augusta, GA is a part of many family’s traditions.

Be Careful of Unforeseen Dangers

On your way to having fun or commuting back and forth to work, beware of “black ice.” Although Augusta does not typically see snow, ice on the roads is still a threat. Black ice is invisible to drivers as the ice is transparent. The ice forms a glaze over the roadways, sidewalks, and driveways causing drivers to pause for caution.

Knowing When to Expect Black Ice

Black ice tends to form in the early hours of the morning and evening when sun temperatures are at a low. Occasionally, black ice can be seen in the right light conditions. In this case, it is important to not panic, simply slow your vehicle and stay alert. Do not hit the brakes and keep your steering wheel straight, be careful not to jerk the wheel as you may overcorrect. *Pro-Tip: Find an area of traction, like the side of the roadway where there is snow and/or grass.

Tips from the Professionals:

• Have snow tires fitted for your vehicle
• Stay off the phone while driving – Always! Especially during winter months where black ice is an added threat.
• Drive slowly to avoid quick movements of the steering wheel and do not harshly press brakes.
• If weather conditions are not safe, do not drive! It is better to wait and stay off the roadways than to be in, and/or cause a wreck.

Need Winter Storm Damage Help? SERVPRO of Augusta can help. Call our teams, 24/7 – 365 at 706-750-0200

Storm Season Among Us in Augusta – Call SERVPRO

9/16/2021 (Permalink)

Downbursts and Toppled Trees Can Threaten Your Home

During storm season, categorized to run from June 1^st – November 30^th, your home can be at risk for damages. Being aware that a reliable restoration company in your area is available for help could mean the difference in having your home restored in days versus weeks, or even months from other companies.

Potential Threats Storms Pose

Downbursts, Wind-Driven rain, and Flooding are all scary scenarios that as homeowner can be threatened by during storm season. Fortunately, the city of Augusta does not typically suffer from damages compared to other like cities such as hurricanes. However, Augusta’s topography does pose a major threat from flooding, hence Phinizy Swamp and low-country areas.

In addition to flooding threats, wind-driven rain from heavy winds and rains can affect your Augusta home roof damage and can topple our areas local tall pine trees. Thunderstorms in combination with winds can potentially produce hail and cause damages to roofs and break windows.

Winter Storms in Texas Can Threaten Augusta

Storms such as Texas’s Winter Storm Uri in 2021 caused major storm issues. SERVPRO® crews from across the country mobilized to help those affected by the ice storm. Icy roads made roads essentially impassable and access to power left many without the ability to recover and stay safe during the storm.

Luckily, SERVPRO® of Augusta crews helped in the restoration efforts as many ice – water combination losses were caused by water heaters that had burst from the low drop in temperatures and water damages had frozen from not having heat in the home to make for a controlled environment for drying.

Prepping Your Home from Harsh Winter Storms

Although typical Augusta winters are not threatening, there are still preventative measures you can take to prepare your home for the changing of seasons. Following updates from your local EMA can help with preventing any potential damages. Click here to learn more from the Augusta Richmond County EMA.

• Stay inside and dress in warm clothing, and close off unneeded rooms to centralize the heat you do have.
• Outside of your home, help pipes from freezing by using insulated faucets covers.
• Remove any combustible central heater closets.
• Think of investing in a home generator.
• Trim tree branches away from your home.
• Clean gutters frequently and clear debris from storm drains.

If you find your home in need for repairs from ice storms, wind-driven rain roof leaks, and/or flooding, call your disaster relief professionals at SERVPRO® of Augusta at 706-750-0200.

Area Flood Damages Means SERVPRO® to the Rescue

9/14/2021 (Permalink)

City of Augusta Flooding Hazards and History

Augusta, Georgia located on the Savannah River has an extensive history of heavy rains causing major flood damage that has destroyed countless homes and businesses. After a series of major flooding instances, the city was prompted to build a levee for protection from extensive damages. Although the city of Augusta has made efforts to alleviate flood issues for commercial businesses and homes, flooding still threatens our area.

Being Prepare During Flooding Events

In recent news, flooding from Hurricane Ida in New York, New Jersey and other Northeastern states has caused great concern amongst our community. Flooding news may have prompted you and your family to begin to think and prepare for potential flooding emergencies in your area. Useful resources for the Augusta area can found by visiting the Augusta Emergency Management Agency page to learn more about topography mapping and identifying if your home is within a floodplain.

Augusta Flood Damage? Call the Experts at SERVPRO

At SERVPRO® of Augusta our crews are highly trained to assess damages caused by flooding and can easily create a comprehensive plan to restore your home. Taking precaution during storms, listening to radio alerts, and taking other preventative measures such as creating an Emergency Ready Profile with your local Augusta SERVPRO® representative can drastically decrease the time your home stands in unlivable condition and / or your businesses downtime.

Need Expert Advice or Need to Schedule for a Crew? Call our office at 706-750-0200 or, we are available through our Contact Page via our webpage.

SERVPRO® of Augusta is Here to Tackle Any Storm, Any Time

8/23/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO® of Augusta is always Here to Help.®

When To Be on the Lookout for Storm Damage

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. As hurricane season rolls around every year, enduring damage to your home can feel as if you have been damaged yourself. SERVPRO® of Augusta is Here to Help® being open 24/7/365 we are always here for you. With constant crew and equipment availability, our fast response times help to reduce business interruption and recovery costs. Timely response from SERVPRO® can make all the difference between quickly restoring your property versus replacing property.

Why Choose SERVPRO®?

As leaders in the Fire & Water Damage Restoration industry with over 50 years of experience, you can feel comfortable trusting SERVPRO®. A trained SERVPRO professional will walk you through the job process step by step, so that you know what to expect and your desired outcome is achieved. Our crew members go through extensive restoration training and are IICRC certified. After the job has been completed, a final walk-through will be conducted to ensure job satisfaction.

What is a IICRC certification? The Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, is a certification for the inspection, cleaning and restoration industries. Our crew chiefs and team of technicians undergo periodic training to stay knowledgeable with ever-changing industry standards and procedures.

How to Prepare Against Storm Damage

• Stay up-to-date with the Augusta-Richmond County EMA 
• Map your evacuation plan ahead of time
• Keep an accurate inventory of all personal property (i.e. up-to-date photos of your home before storm season and after)
• Take precautionary steps to protect your home (i.e. cut weak branches & trees, install storm shutters, etc.)

Have Additional Questions? Call our office at 706-750-0200 to schedule a consultation and receive expert advice.

Call Our Experts 24/7 If Your Augusta Home Experiences Flood Damage

5/27/2021 (Permalink)

You can depend on our SERVPRO teams to cleanup and restore your property and personal belongings after a flood takes place.

What To Expect From Professional Flood Damage Restoration Services In Augusta

When your Augusta home experiences flooding, it is a traumatic time for you and your family. The damage increases with every hour the water remains, but managing the problem is beyond the tools and skills possessed by the average homeowner. Our company considers the water removal and structural drying services necessary after a flooding event to be one of the pillars of our mission. Let us help at this difficult time.

Flood damage in Augusta can connect to a severe weather event, a municipal utility breach, or household plumbing or appliance malfunctions. Regardless of how the flooding happened, it must be removed, contained, and discarded fast to stop progressive damage to the structure and contents and prevent secondary issues such as mold growth. We have the trained technicians to implement any professional plan to get the flood damage remediation project running.

SERVPRO often recommends a contents pack-out in a flooding scenario. Our team uses a detailed Contents Claim Inventory Service (CCIS) to inventory and track your items, including detailed lists, digital photos, and barcoding. Removing furnishings and personal property permits us to evaluate their condition and effectuate cleaning and drying procedures at our production facility. We also document restoration expenses and decisions to discard items to help with the insurance claims process.

A pack-out allows SERVPRO technicians at your home to attend to rapid water removal and structural drying with more ease and space. Our service vehicles are stocked with pumps and water extractors, essential to rid the flooded spaces of standing water. We use thermal scanning devices and moisture meters to find hidden water and establish baselines for drying goals. Technicians operate the machinery after an evaluation of the water category, containing contaminated fluid for appropriate disposal according to local regulation.

Once the majority of the water is evacuated, SERVPRO establishes a perimeter of air movers, heaters, and dehumidifiers to dry out the flood-damaged space. If needed to gain access to saturated cavities, we might elect to make flood cuts, ensuring a flow of dry, heated air to draw out the moisture in every area affected. The water in the structural components becomes water vapor in the drier air, ready for capture by dehumidifiers.

SERVPRO of Augusta stands beside you after flood damage, ready to return your home to preloss condition. Call (706) 750-0200 for a fast assessment and professional flood damage remediation.

SERVPRO Can Help with Your Storm Damage Repair

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

Discovery of microbial growth behind wall coverings.

Mold Threatening your Augusta Home or Business?

If your home has a moisture issue after a storm, there could be mold growth festering. After a storm, safely assessing potential damage is vital. Damages may not mean a damaged roof from high-speed winds, or broken windows from tree branches. Sometimes, moist, damp areas occur after excess moisture in the crawlspace from high water levels seep through cracks or poor coverage of the access door and threaten microbial growth. Mold can thrive after a Summer storm because of humidity and wet conditions. These popular mold growth environments are characterized as a crawlspace, basement, or other areas that were previously affected from a water loss that have gone unnoticed and now have unwanted, excess moisture.

Measures to Remediate Mold

It does not take long for living organisms like Mold to being to develop and grow. Spores are found in an outside environment but can transfer inside a home if mold finds the perfect living environment – Typically on wet, organic materials like sheetrock (paper) or wood.

Choosing the Right Team

Calling SERVPRO® of Augusta is central to assuring that our team of experts can mitigate mold growth and keep mold away through expert diagnosis and processes. It is important to remove all outside factors that could promote mold growth such as wet insulation, wet sheetrock, essentially removing the molds access to its food source.

If you believe you have spotted mold growth in your home or crawlspace, call SERVPRO® of Augusta for help and to prevent potential health hazards. Our technicians are always prepared to conduct mold testing, identify potential sources of mold, and remediate.

If your home and/or crawlspace becomes wet after a storm, our crews are Here to Help® by being available 247 – 365, Call SERVPRO® of Augusta at 706-750-0200.

Does Your Place Smell After Flood Damage?

2/28/2021 (Permalink)

You can contact our professionals 24/7. Our fire damage experts are trained in fire & smoke restoration, odor control, upholstery and fabric cleaning.

SERVPRO Can Help Deodorize Your Augusta Home

Strong odors can develop after a flooding incident for various reasons. The most common reason is floodwaters depositing odorous materials inside your home. The water usually contains various wastes, including chemicals and biohazards such as raw sewage, which emit bad smells.

Although the cleaning done as part of flood damage restoration in your Augusta home may remove the waste materials, in most cases, it does not address the underlying odor issues. Deodorization helps address such issues. 

Deodorization usually takes several steps since odors may originate from different sources. Some odors are also stubborn, and one method is not likely to eliminate them. SERVPRO technicians rely on their training and vast experience to remove odors, including:

• Adding water-based odor counteractants into cleaning solutions to neutralize odors during cleaning
• Spraying deodorizing agents in areas suspected to be the source of malodors
• Running air scrubbers or air filtration devices that have HEPA filters that capture particles as small as 0.3microns thus collecting odor molecules

SERVPRO of Augusta helps restore properties affected by flood damage. Call us at (706) 750-0200 to assist you.

Why Seek Professional Flood Damage Help in Groveland?

1/26/2021 (Permalink)

Storm damage is no easy task. Call the professionals of SERVPRO for the flood damage services you need.

SERVPRO ensures safety during Groveland flooding mitigation

When seemingly clean rainwater invades your Groveland home, it can be hard to appreciate the hazards it poses. Although it might look clear, it can carry significant amounts of:

• Road and landscaping chemicals
• Diluted sewage, still teeming with human pathogens
• Dissolved substances contained in or on the materials passed through on its way inside -- including asbestos, lead, and more
• Bits of industrial waste and dead insects and animals

What Protections Does SERVPRO Provide During Flood Recovery?

When torrential rains cause local waterways and sewers to flood, damage to Grovetown residences follows. SERVPRO crews are certified to extract and contain flood fluids for lawful disposal. We enhance safety for your family through:

• Containment of work areas
• Venting airborne contaminants using negative pressure air scrubbers
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), preventing tracking hazardous waste in living areas
• Cleaning and disinfection employing EPA-registered products

Call on SERVPRO of Augusta for fast and expert flood damage restoration. Contact us at (706) 750-0200 any time, day or night, 365.

Flooding Hazards and How We Can Help

12/21/2020 (Permalink)

Our technicians are expertly trained to extract water from storm flooding.

What to Look for After Recent Flooding

There are many hazards to look out for after flooding in your Augusta home. You may experience electrical and structural hazards, along with hazardous waste, mold, and hazardous materials. Electrical and Structural hazards may be the most common when experiencing flooding in your Augusta home. Additionally, there may also be trip, slip, and fall hazards due to the number of wet surfaces in your Augusta home or business.

Electrical and Structural Hazards

Pro Tip: Electrical hazards from flooding can cause water to make its way into the wiring system. To protect yourself and your home, make sure all the circuit boxes are turned off to steer clear of shock hazards.

Additionally, structural hazards can mean the foundation is compromised due to the excess water that has now infiltrated your Augusta home. Occasionally, there may also be damage to the gas lines which will then cause gas to slowly leak into the home. In addition to leaking gas lines, there is also potential for there to be water trapped in ceiling pockets causing the ceiling to most likely cave in and fall. These are just a few examples of what can happen after flooding has occurred. We at SERVPRO® of Augusta are expertly trained and are confident in our ability protect you and your home from these issues.

Do Not Delay

If you see an issue, report it! When experiencing flooding in your Augusta home, call your local SERVPRO® of Augusta for fast storm damage flooding help. The sooner you call, the sooner you can get your home or business restored. Call 706-750-0200 and our crew chiefs and technicians can help provide you with expert advice.

Hundreds of Augusta Residents are Taking Part in this Year's Run Run Rudolph Virtual 5k Run.

11/30/2020 (Permalink)

Join the fun and enjoy the views Augusta has to offer. Remember If your home needs assistance with storm damage, call SERVPRO, we are available 24/7.

Starting on December 1st, Augusta Residents Don their Running Shoes and Reindeer Antlers for the Virtual 5k. 

Augusta is full of great running spots, from Broad Street's historic downtown to the Savannah River's rugged natural beauty. Take full advantage this December by taking part in the Virtual Run Challenge. Supporting healthy lifestyles and activity, this organization promotes running in an area of your choice anywhere in Augusta. Runs are live-streamed or filmed, with registration taking place over the next few weeks. The time limit for your run ends on January 3rd. Registration is capped at 1500, so visit the event pages to book your spot. Fancy dress-themed walkers and joggers are highly encouraged. 

• Registration packages include reindeer antlers, finishers shirts, and medals, as well as a Tyvek Race bib. 
• Submit your results online to claim your medal. 
• Race packets begin shipping from December 1st. Once received, pick your spot and run through Augusta.

A subtropical climate increases the likelihood of violent winds and rainfall. If your property suffers flooding this winter, contact SERVPRO of Augusta at (706) 750-0200.

SERVPRO® of Augusta Provides Storm Damage Help for Community

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Impending Weather Conditions May Mean Storm Damage

Having a plan in place for potential storms could mean the difference between regaining normalcy OR having irreparable damage. Hurricane Zeta has the potential to send damaging winds and rains towards your home or business. Storm damage help is right around the corner, and SERVPRO® of Augusta is here to answer your call.

When storms threaten your home or business you want to ensure that the effects of storm damage can be remedied as quickly as possible. Storm situations that could impact your home or business from operating may include flooding, fallen trees, and lightning strikes often causing intruding water, roof damage, window frame leaks, and fire damage.

The Process

Fast reaction time at the first sign of a flood could save you from being displaced. We are available 24/7 to give expert advice and begin the first steps of saving your home or business. Most often, extraction of standing water will be needed to escape secondary damage such as mold. Part of our processes for storm damage help in Augusta means assessing the damage, coming up with a “Scope” of what work is needed, and completing an Estimate to be submitted to you, the insured, and potentially your insurance company should you need to file a claim.

After work has been approved and completed by SERVPRO® of Augusta, one of our project managers will walk you through the final project to assure that you are satisfied.

Do you believe you need help from our team of experts? Call us for advice and scheduling today at (706) 750-0200

What Can Homeowners Do to Mitigate Flooding in a Home Office?

10/20/2020 (Permalink)

After a flood incident occurs in your home office. You can trust that your home is in good hands with our experienced technicians at SERVPRO.

SERVPRO Sends Emergency-Response Teams to Augusta Homeowners That Need Flood Damage Cleanup.

Because current pandemic safety precautions have many Augusta property owners working from home long-term, it can be easy to forget about the risk of natural disasters. As a result, dealing with damages caused by a home flood can be quite stressful, particularly when it impacts your workspace. An estimated 90 percent of natural disasters in the United States involve flooding, even in low-risk regions. With this in mind, there are several steps homeowners can take to minimize damages and a team that is ready to help when disaster strikes.

SERVPRO techs are ready to respond to flood damage in Augusta communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This team’s constant availability allows homeowners to minimize flood risk while maximizing cost savings related to repairing and replacing belongings and structural materials.

What Methods Can Homeowners Use to Flood Proof a Property?

Floodproofing can go a long way toward protecting your home and its belongings, saving you a considerable amount in repair and replacement costs when disasters occur. These methods include, but are not limited to:

• Wet floodproofing. One effective means of floodproofing your property is installing flood vents and constructing with flood-resistant materials. This process anticipates flooding and instead allows it to pass through highly durable materials to protect your property.
• Dry floodproofing. Dry floodproofing generally consists of improvements like tight seals for windows and doors. Membranes and seals reduce interior and exterior flood risk. Ensure that local Federal Emergency Management (FEMA) guidelines for new or substantially improved homes in your area allow for these upgrades before implementing dry floodproofing.
• Constructing floodwalls. If you have sufficient land, this method is highly effective for keeping your home safe and dry. Take a careful look at local zoning laws and regulations before commencing construction.

While these floodproofing suggestions can save you time, money, and stress in the event of a disaster, damages to your Augusta home are still possible. SERVPRO can aid you at any time of the day or night, including on weekends and during holidays, to restore your home per your insurance policy.

How Can Homeowners Get the Most Out of Their Flood Insurance Claims?

• Request multiple estimates for your property, if possible. Consider getting at least three independent estimates, if able, before scheduling repairs to your home. This process allows you to receive a more realistic estimated cost of necessary repairs to your Augusta property.
• Consider hiring a reputable public claims adjuster. A public adjuster works independently of your insurance company. These professionals assist you with your claim and maximize the compensation you receive from your insurer.
• Fill out a proof of loss claim promptly. This form should be completed within 60 days of the disaster to ensure that you get the coverage necessary to return your property to a preloss state.
• Request a certified copy of your flood insurance policy. The National Flood Protection Association (NFIP) provides the overwhelming majority of flood insurance to American homeowners. Having a copy of your policy on hand keeps you informed about your coverage while also aiding the claims filing process.

SERVPRO techs have extensive training and experience with flood damage mitigation and restoration per Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) standards. Your local team assists you by streamlining the claims filing process and coordinating with you and your adjuster during cleanup.

How Do SERVPRO Technicians Clean Up a Flooded Home Office?

A home office affected by flooding requires several levels of care that your local SERVPRO can provide. For an inch of flooding, Carpeting requires removal to minimize sanitation risks to occupants. The subflooring may also require thorough sanitation and structural drying. Depending on the amount of time since the disaster occurred, parts of the subfloor may require replacement due to warped, cupping, or cracked wood.

SERVPRO techs can perform a variety of other tasks to prepare your home office space for restoration, including:

• Moving electronics and valuables offsite for inspection, cleaning, and repairs by licensed experts.
• Elevating salvageable furniture, such as desks, shelves, and chairs, on blocks allows for on-site sanitation with EPA-registered biocides and restoration.
• Copies of essential documents that may have been affected by flooding can be stored electronically for your needs. Books on low shelves that may have been impacted by floodwaters may be more cost-effective to replace than restore.

SERVPRO of Augusta is ready to bring you mitigation services that are Faster To Any Size Disaster. You can call (706) 750-0200 at any time of the day or night to begin the cleanup process.

Can My Neighbors and I Retrieve Items from Our Augusta Homes After a Flood?

9/2/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO of Augusta (706) 750-0200 to assist with your emergency flood damage, recovery, and construction needs.

Flood Damage In My Augusta Home

Quite often, many homes are flooded simultaneously in Augusta. Naturally, homeowners want to access their homes as soon as possible to check their home and their contents. Many are worried that strangers will remove valuables and heirlooms if they are not retrieved immediately.

SERVPRO suggests that homeowners of flood-damaged homes in Augusta do not enter their homes after a flood until the house is inspected. Numerous dangers are lurking in flooded homes such as electrical short circuits, leaking fuel, slippery conditions, not to mention the toxic water and debris that may have entered.

We are equally concerned about security and prepared to board up broken doors and windows, check for escaping fuel and live electrical wires. Once it is safe to enter, our team can begin recovery of specified contents, remove debris, begin water removal, clean and dry your home.

There is So Much Damage, Where Do We Begin?
Many homeowners are overwhelmed after their home is flooded. Every room on the main floor may be damaged by water and debris that entered the house. While it is not safe, they are also anxious to get started with restoration but have no idea where to begin.

It is situations like these where SERVPRO and our highly trained experienced technicians excel following a safe industry-approved process. We make sure it is safe to enter, recover, and clean your contents, remove debris and structural items that are damaged. We remove drywall, carpeting, hardwood flooring, damaged appliances, and cupboards as required. Once the structure is exposed, we can ensure that it is properly dried and made ready for restoration.

SERVPRO provides initial flood damage cleanup, removal services, and reconstruction services for your home. We can manage the reconstruction activities offered by the variety of tradespeople required to restore your home or business to its preloss condition saving time and money.

Call SERVPRO of Augusta (706) 750-0200 to assist with your emergency flood damage, recovery, and construction needs.

How Can I Prevent Mold From Growing in My House After a Flood?

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Mold easily grows after a flood incident. Call SERVPRO at the first sign of mold damage.

SERVPRO Can Take Several Measures to Eliminate Microbes and Inhibit Mold Growth Inside your Grovetown Home

Any time organic materials like items made out of paper or wood get wet, there is a chance that fungi can develop in your house in Grovetown. A fungus only needs moisture, an organic food source, the right temperature, and time to form.

How long does it take mold to grow?

After your house in Grovetown suffers from flood damage, spores that come in from the outside can grow into fungi in about 48 to 72 hours. This is why our SERVPRO technicians always try to remove all moisture present inside your contents and building materials that contain paper or wood as soon as possible. We always try to come up with techniques that aid in drying out all of your affected items in 48 hours or less.

What can you do if mold has already started to develop?

If fungi have already formed in areas of your house that got wet, our SERVPRO team can take steps to remove the contamination and prevent it from spreading.

If the mold is only on the surface of your building materials or contents, we can remove it by sanding or soda blasting.

We can then apply antimicrobial chemicals to all of the areas that got affected inside your house.

Are there any other health hazards that can exist in my home after a flood?

Bacteria: Harmful bacteria can live soil, water, and organic matter. Any time moisture comes into your structure from the outdoors; there is a chance that the liquid contains harmful bacteria and viruses.

Viruses: A virus is the most simple microbe but they can cause diseases in living beings. We can eliminate most harmful bacteria and viruses by applying chemicals like Vanquish.

If anything inside your house in Martinez ever gets wet after a storm, call SERVPRO of Augusta at (706) 750-0200 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

See more about Grovetown.

How Long is It Safe to Wait for Flood Restoration in My Augusta Home?

4/28/2020 (Permalink)

Flooding can be a substantial obstacle to overcome on your own, but with our SERVPRO team, you do not have to face it alone.

After a Flood in Augusta, Damage Can Continually Worsen – Our SERVPRO Team Can Respond Fast to Help

The sooner you can get professionals responding to a flood loss in your home, the better. For flooding, there are no scenarios where damages can improve on their own, and migrating conditions can make structural degradation and deterioration worse on those that do not choose to act immediately after a disaster.

While there are many levels of flood damage for Augusta homes, how these effects get addressed relates directly to the prompt response and available equipment of our SERVPRO team. With advanced technologies and cutting-edge tools, we can offer an efficient extraction and cleaning of the property with the appropriate care and consideration that you would put into the restoration on your own.

What Services Does My House Need After a Flood?
Seeing your home post-flooding can be overwhelming. With a growing list of needs for the property to look and feel like it used to, our professionals must get there quickly to begin some of the vital mitigation tasks. While every property is different, these are some of the areas where you can expect some degree of activity after a flooding disaster:

    •    Muck-Out – Much like fire losses, debris removal is a vital element to the earliest effort in restoring your property. Muck-out removes most of the mud and debris that can collect after natural flooding and reduces the potential for bacterial threats or other contaminants.
    •    Extraction – By removing surface water as efficiently as possible, our technicians can inspect exposed materials and contents much sooner to determine what is salvageable. Extraction is also a vital step before successful drying.
    •    Surface Cleaning – Residues and soiling can be a common threat with materials that were directly exposed to natural floodwater. Between water-based solvents and chlorines, we can clean and disinfect many areas impacted by flooding.
    •    Controlled Demolition – Controlled demolition is one of the unfortunate staples after natural flooding occurs. Because water gets considered contaminated, there is no other choice but to remove exposed areas of the house and replace them.
    •    Drying – There are many tools and technologies that are part of drying your home after a flood. Air movers and dehumidifiers might be at the heart of this effort, but there are also specialty tools like floor mat drying systems and weighted extractors to help.
    •    Reconstruction – Much like controlled demolition is a necessity after many natural drying situations, the build back of these removed areas falls to the capable hands of our licensed residential contractors.

Why Is Professional Restoration a Wise Choice?
It is not uncommon for homeowners to consider the possibility of DIY restoration, but this is often a mistake. With migrating water, you might not always know where the damage has traveled to and how bad the situation is without our detection devices and technologies. Also, professional restorers like us offer:

    •    Efficiency
    •    Cutting-Edge Equipment
    •    Work with Your Insurance Company
    •    Experienced Inspections for Accurate Estimations
    •    Modern Practices and Training

How Can My Belongings Get Protected from Flood Exposure?
Content management is not one of the things that most homeowners consider even right after a disaster has taken place. Our professionals always have your belongings and best interests, guiding all of the choices that we make, and that is why we have such a dedicated content management team to assess potential damages and determine the best restorative solution. These include:

    •    On-Site Relocation – By moving your belongings to a different place within the same structure, it remains accessible to the occupants of the house should that be necessary. This solution only works when these contents are not compromised and do not require focused cleaning efforts.
    •    Containment Barriers – By establishing containment barriers to create a drying zone for our technicians to work in, we also close out the contents that might have later gotten exposed to migrating conditions. If cleaning is necessary, this can happen where the contents are when barriers protect these items from continued damage.
    •    Pack-Out Procedure – One of the unique features of our SERVPRO team is the warehouse facility that we use to clean and restore damaged belongings from a fire. At our building, our content management team can focus on surface cleaning, deodorization, and climate-controlled storage to keep your possessions safe until restoration completes.

Flooding can be a substantial obstacle to overcome on your own, but with our SERVPRO of Augusta team, you do not have to face it alone. We have skilled technicians and advanced equipment to make flood losses “Like it never even happened.” Give our technicians a call today at (706) 750-0200.

For more about Augusta click here.

Become Familiar with Flood Damage Remediation Success in Augusta

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Don’t let floodwaters sit for too long in your home causing extended damage. Contact SERVPRO for water removal and remediation efforts.

Crucial Steps that Help Manage Storm Flood Damage Incidents in Augusta

Getting caught up in a storm is never a pleasant experience. When the rains, wind, and groundwater stops flowing, you may be happy that the worst is over, but in many cases, it is the beginning of a tiresome recovery process. Focusing on completing some steps during the restoration of storm flood damage ensures the recovery process achieves the desired goals.

Thorough Water Extraction

Water intrusion into unwanted areas during storm flood damage incidents in Augusta is the main problem many homeowners face. Complete restoration is only possible after removing all the water. Removal can be complicated by issues such as the volume of water involved, presence of residues in the water, and intrusion into concealed areas. Our SERVPRO technicians use different resources to address these issues. We have pumps with a significant lift capacity to expedite removal. We also have trash pumps that can remove water with solids.

Demolition to Reach Hidden Areas

Various assemblies around the house can hold the stormwater after the initial intrusion. The main problem areas include wall base areas, stairs, flooring, voids, and built-in fixtures. Removing some construction components in such areas helps create the necessary access to extract water and clean any soiling left by the stormwater. Our SERVPRO technicians have the necessary building skills and tools to disassemble constructions around your house without causing unnecessary damages.

Decontaminating Non-Porous Surfaces

Contamination is a common outcome of storm flood damage, especially when intrusion involves groundwater. Even in other cases, there is a need to address contamination since microbial growth happens in stagnant water given sufficient time. Our SERVPRO technicians use disinfectants and antimicrobial agents during the cleaning process to decontaminate non-porous surfaces. We also use luminometers to check for contaminant remnants on cleaned surfaces.

Storms lead to several inconveniences, but a proper response helps manage the damage. Call SERVPRO of Augusta at (706) 750-0200 to help clean up, decontaminate and dry your home, eliminating all traces of the incident, "Like it never even happened."

See more about Augusta.

Augusta Groundwater Storm Damage and the SERVPRO Methods of Restoration

1/28/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides the Advanced Equipment Like an Injecti-Dry System and Skilled Technicians to Mitigate Augusta Area Storm Damage

SERVPRO Offers Specialized Solutions for Flood Damage in Your Augusta Residence

Whenever a disaster strikes in Augusta, how the flood damage is assessed in the hours following the event is crucial. During this time, action must be taken to not only ensure safety but also to minimize the costs involved for repair and restoration. Hiring professionals is an excellent way to ensure you embark on the right path to get your home back to normal.

Calling the experts for cleaning and repairing your home after flood damage in Augusta gets you started in the right direction. Some homeowners may think that water removal and cleaning is easy, but each situation presents a unique set of challenges that only the professionals know how to address.

Did you know that the type of paint used throughout your home plays a part in the handling of your flood loss situation? SERVPRO technicians understand the differences in paint and how it can impact the cleanup process. For example, water vapors pass, and water molecules wick faster through flat paint than semi-gloss paint. Depending on the finish in your home, drying behind cabinets, under flooring, or behind walls can take more time.

To allow air to circulate throughout wall cavities, SERVPRO technicians drill small, strategically placed holes. As Applied Structural Drying Technicians (ASD), our SERVPRO team employs multiple drying methods to get the job done. Wherever there is a vapor barrier, such as a vinyl wall covering, water gets trapped behind the walls. Our technicians can take off the baseboards and drilling holes to make sure that all cavities get dried thoroughly to eliminate all hidden moisture. The small drilled “weep holes” can be connected with tubing from an injecti-dry system. This can force in warm air to facilitate the rate of evaporation while also expelling liquid and moisture from the cavities to the environment. From there, dehumidifiers can capture and condense the airborne water molecules.

Floodwater of any kind comes with debris and bacteria. SERVPRO technicians extract all water from the impacted area and then utilize specialized cleaners to disinfect and make the space livable once again. We must go through each step to ensure it seems, “Like it never even happened.”

Remember to check your insurance for flood coverage, if you have not yet done this. We can help with the claims paperwork to help relieve your stress in this difficult time.

Do you need help with flood damage? You can reach us at SERVPRO of Augusta 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency service. Give us a call at (706) 750-0200, and we can send a team out to start right away.

Our Experts Discuss How Flooding Can Lead To Hazards In Your Augusta Home

12/27/2019 (Permalink)

Natural Augusta Flooding Can Lead to Home Hazards

Assessing the risks and potential hazards present in Augusta homes after flooding is a vital step to beginning mitigation and emergency services as promptly as possible. As challenging as natural disasters like this can become, understanding the threats and how to manage these situations can make for safer cleaning and recovery of a household with less potential for continued damages or health concerns.

Part of keeping your family safe, as well as our SERVPRO technicians, begins with understanding what to expect from flood damage in Augusta homes. The first threat that homes and their occupants face after natural flooding disasters is the deterioration of construction materials. Ceiling tiles, insulation, drywall, flooring, and other materials are all at risk for weakening and eventual collapse when prolonged saturation occurs. Absorption by porous drywall and ceiling materials can begin immediately, allowing these areas to structurally fail in as little as 24 hours in some situations.

Electric shock is another concern for our team as well as anyone who might remain exposed to standing water in the structure. Active power supplies to the residence do not always trip or disconnect when exposed to rising water. Though many homes have a failsafe installed with the electrical system to mostly prevent electrified standing water and shock risks in these situations, older homes do not have these outlets, fixtures, and preventative measures. It is vital when the potential exists for these dangers that electrical service is temporarily severed.

With natural flooding scenarios, contamination is another concern that our SERVPRO team must know how to address promptly. Because of substances, bacteria, and other threats that could exist in moving water as it finds its way to your house, natural flooding situations must get treated as health threats to those exposed. While much of the exposed materials must get removed and later replaced, we have potent disinfectants, antimicrobial sprays, and biocides to treat and protect structural elements and frameworks that can remain.

Assessing risks and threats after flooding is a vital element of the restoration process for our SERVPRO of Augusta team and our customers. We can utilize efficient drying and cleaning approaches to restore your flooded home as quickly as we can. Give our technicians a call whenever disasters strike at (706) 750-0200.

For more about Augusta click here.

Seasonal Storms Can Spell Trouble For Your Martinez Home

11/7/2019 (Permalink)

Seasonal Storms Challenge Martinez Homeowners with Flood Damage

Recent tropical storms making landfall from the Gulf are a clear reminder of the exposure to flooding these weather patterns bring to Martinez. High winds and torrential rains pounding down increase the likelihood that water enters your home from overland flooding, seepage from saturated ground, or exterior damage. You need help with everything from securing your property to water removal to structural drying to disinfection and deodorization. Our Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained team can help.

Contamination Risk High with Flooding
When several inches of waterfall in a short period in Martinez, flood damage is often a consequence. Backups from your sewage waste pipes and overland flooding bring a host of contaminants into your home, including blood and fecal borne pathogens, chemicals, animal and industrial waste, and other debris. If floodwaters collect because of exterior damage, the rainwater flows across and down walls and floors, also pouring through building cavities before rising in your lower levels. The relatively clean rainwater picks up many residues on its journey inside your dwelling, adding to other hazardous substances.

Professional Containment and Lawful Disposal
When the SERVPRO team arrives, crew members begin tarping and boarding up exterior damage. Meanwhile, an experienced project manager evaluates the damage, including an assessment of whether the water needs containment and disposal following local hazardous waste regulations. Our technicians are familiar with efficient methods for capturing contaminated water using submersible pumps and extractors. We are current on the protocols for disposal, ensuring your job is handled as required by law.

The Three “Ds” -- Disinfection, Drying, and Deodorization
After through extraction of floodwaters, including detection and release of fluids hidden in building cavities, SERVPRO employees clean and disinfect affected spaces. EPA-registered products ensure appropriate kill rates and dwell times for the broad range of pathogens remaining after the evacuation of floodwaters. Moisture level data helps determine drying goals, and we monitor the reduction in absorbed water as air movers and heaters accelerate evaporation. Dehumidifiers capture water vapor for disposal. Our Odor Control Technicians (OCT) work through a broad range of strategies to remove any lingering odors, including the use of enzyme products and hydroxyl generators that neutralize rather than mask smells.

SERVPRO of Augusta is ready to partner with you when stormy skies turn into flooded spaces in your home. Contact us round the clock at (706) 750-0200 to schedule an assessment and get the recovery going.

For more about Martinez click here.

Sustained Summer Storms Mean Augusta Flood Damage

7/29/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO will always be eager to help you through your Augusta flood damage.

We are always a phone call away for your flood damage in Augusta.

Augusta is frequently in the path of extreme weather systems. Dumping voluminous amounts of rain and generating wind speeds of nearly 80 miles per hour, storms seen already this summer have set the stage for residents to be watchful and wary when the weather changes. If your home suffers significant harm and water invades, lose no time in calling on professional flooding mitigation and remediation services.

Flood damage in Augusta during the hot months can be overwhelming. Our team of Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)-trained managers and technicians prepare for the flooding season and are eager to help you overcome a disastrous situation. Because of our rigorous training, experience, and inventory of state-of-the-art flood mitigation and remediation equipment, we are uniquely qualified to come to your aid.

Expect our crew to arrive as soon as possible with an experienced project manager or crew chief leading the way. A swift and accurate assessment of the damage follows, resulting in a comprehensive and personalized restoration plan. The SERVPRO service vehicles waiting outside have a full complement of water removal and structural drying equipment onboard, along with power generators, cleaning and disinfecting products, and a range of moisture detection tools. We also have materials to secure your property if storm damage affected the exterior’s structural integrity.

Our SERVPRO technicians get to work, ticking off the task on the plan. Pumps and extractors evacuate the floodwater, by definition Category 3 and dangerously contaminated. We follow local rules for containment and disposal of the fluids removed. Thermal scanning leads us to any hidden caches of floodwater, which we access for removal with controlled demolition methods like flood cuts or weep holes. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of affected surfaces with EPA-registered formulations complete next.

Moisture readings provide the data needed to determine drying goals. Heated air movement facilitated by positioning drying equipment appropriately helps drive water from wet structural components into the air as vapor. Evaporative and desiccant dehumidifiers each have their place in condensing or absorbing the vapor for lawful disposal. After meeting drying goals, SERVPRO can help with repairs and rebuilding, offering wrap-around restoration.

Call SERVPRO of Augusta at (706) 750-0200 after the storm passes. We’re Faster To Any Size Disaster, and pledge to return your home to pre-flooding condition quickly and professionally.

If you would like to learn more about Augusta, click here.

Augusta Homeowners Clammer for SERVPRO to Rescue Their Flood-Damaged Properties!

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Provides Advanced Equipment for Flood Water Removal in Augusta Homes and Businesses

SERVPRO Handles Heavy Flood Damage in Augusta Homes

When flood damage occurs in a home, the faster the removal of the water, the less the potential for loss. It is suggested that immediate professional cleanup can mitigate the damages exponentially.

Our SERVPRO location handled flood damage to an Augusta home after a heavy rain that encompassed much of the first floor. Groundwater entering a home is a category 3 or black water event and carries a rating as a biohazard for cleanup. Contaminated water can contain chemicals, pesticides, debris, vegetation, pathogens, and fecal matter.

The homeowner advised our emergency response team before arrival on site that the electricity was off in the home, so we brought our generators to power our equipment for the mitigation. There was little standing water left on the property, but the carpeting in all rooms retained water and were too heavy to move without extraction to lighten them. These contaminated porous floor coverings were not salvageable, and we discarded them. We also removed other affected contents in the home that were not restorable due to exposure to black water.

Once we removed the water from the flooring, we measured how far up into the sheetrock the moisture wicked and we cut about six inches above the waterline using a controlled demolition technique known as "flood cuts." This action allowed a more substantial amount of airflow into the wall cavity, so complete drying occurred more rapidly.

Mold is a significant concern after damage from flooding in a home. One of the ways we inhibit mold growth is to set a drying goal for the water loss areas between 40% to 50% humidity. Thus, the moisture content in the air does not support spore growth. When our technicians set up air movers in the home, we use the force of the air movers to pull any remaining moisture to the surface where it is then captured and ported away with dehumidifiers.

Once our detection equipment confirmed the attainment of drying goals, SERVPRO technicians cleaned, disinfected, and performed the necessary odor control procedures to get the property prepped for rebuilding. We then gave the homeowner and adjuster a record of the actions taken and a list of repairs and restorations needed to return the home to its preloss condition. Because our SERVPRO company offers full-service restoration and rebuilding with many contracting licenses, we can provide a seamless transition from water removal to a scenario "Like it never even happened."

We know flood damage is a stressful situation for any homeowner. Contact SERVPRO of Augusta at (706) 750-0200, and we can mitigate the loss and make your home whole again.

Come visit our beautiful city of Augusta.