The Dangers of DIY Sewage Cleanup: Why It's Best to Call in the Professionals

5/1/2023 (Permalink)

Whether your 1000 sq ft home or 100,000 sq ft commercial building experiences a flood in Atlanta, Buckhead, or nearby areas we're here to help 24/7.

Experiencing a sewage backup in your home or business can be a daunting and overwhelming experience. While it may be tempting to try to tackle the problem yourself to save some money, attempting a DIY sewage cleanup can be hazardous and ultimately, more costly in the long run. In this blog post, we will explore the dangers of attempting to clean up sewage on your own and explain why it's best to call in professionals like SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead for water damage restoration and sewage cleanup services.

Understanding the Health Risks Associated with DIY Sewage Cleanup

Sewage backups can be both hazardous and potentially deadly when homeowners attempt to address the issue themselves. Sewage can consist of greywater (from utilities like sinks, tubs, showers, and dishwashers) or, even worse, black water, which is the water used to flush toilets mixed with the human waste that it flushes away. Besides human waste, chemical compounds and cleansers in sewage produce phosphorus and nitrogen pollution that can damage waterways and pose serious risks when entering your home. Sewage backups in your home can result from various causes, such as clogs in the home's drain pipes, tree roots, damaged sewer lines, and more.

Sewage contains up to one million microorganisms per millimeter of waste, some of which are vital for breaking down solid waste. However, pathogenic bacteria are also present and can cause health problems such as Hepatitis A and Encephalitis. Due to its ability to seep into porous materials, sewage is challenging to clean up by hand.

Furthermore, sewage contains parasitic microorganisms, such as polio, adenovirus, and enteric cytopathic human orphan (ECHO) viruses, which can cause severe health issues in humans. While the ratio of viruses to bacteria is relatively small, they are still harmful to your health. Wastewater also hosts pathogenic and saprophytic bacteria, including E. coli, Giardia Lamblia, Salmonella, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Direct exposure to these toxins can lead to intestinal diseases, typhoid fever, cholera, and dysentery. That is why coming into contact with sewage without wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) and following proper procedures can pose a severe threat to your health.

Mold growth is another significant risk when attempting DIY sewage cleanup. Mold exposure can worsen allergy and asthma symptoms, especially in children and individuals with compromised immune systems. Flooding provides ideal conditions for mold to develop, as it only needs moisture, organic material, and optimal temperature. Alarmingly, mold can grow within just 24 to 48 hours of the incident.

However, the greatest danger is sometimes not the risk of disease, but the risk of electrocution or explosion. Never enter a flooded area or light matches until the utility companies have shut off the electric and gas service. If you detect or smell gas, immediately evacuate your home and notify the gas company. You should also enter your home with caution if you did not turn off the main power switch before the flooding occurred. Touching electrical lines, wires, equipment, and fixtures during and after a flood can be dangerous.

Addressing the underlying plumbing issue is crucial to prevent future sewage backups. Failing to fix the problem correctly can lead to recurring spills and increased costs. It's worth noting that most home insurance policies cover sewage cleanup, so hiring professionals like SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead is a practical and cost-effective solution.

The Importance of Proper Protective Gear and Equipment in Sewage Cleanup

Handling human waste or sewage comes with an increased risk of illness from waterborne diseases. Anyone involved in sewage cleanup must follow proper hygiene practices and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize the risk of contracting diseases such as the ones mentioned earlier in this article. SERVPRO restoration technicians are trained to prioritize health and safety while dealing with sewage cleanup tasks.

Basic Hygiene Practices for Restoration Technicians

• Always wash hands with soap and water after handling human waste or sewage, before eating or drinking, and before and after using the toilet.
• Avoid touching your face, mouth, eyes, nose, or open sores and cuts while handling human waste or sewage.
• Keep open sores, cuts, and wounds covered with clean, dry bandages.
• Use waterproof gloves to prevent cuts and contact with human waste or sewage.
• Wear rubber boots at the worksite and during transport of human waste or sewage.
• Refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco or gum while handling human waste or sewage.
• Gently flush eyes with safe water if human waste or sewage contacts them.

Restoration techs who handle human waste or sewage are always provided with proper PPE, training on how to use it, and handwashing facilities. The following PPE is typically required for restoration technicians handling human waste or sewage:

• Goggles: to protect eyes from splashes of human waste or sewage.
• Protective face mask or splash-proof face shield: to protect nose and mouth from splashes of human waste or sewage.
• Liquid-repellent coveralls: to keep human waste or sewage off clothing.
• Waterproof gloves: to prevent exposure to human waste or sewage.
• Rubber boots: to prevent exposure to human waste or sewage.

To further protect restoration technicians from exposure, employees are typically required to have their Tetanus vaccinations up to date, and in most cases polio, typhoid fever, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B vaccinations as well. Adhering to these best practices and procedures ensures the health and safety of workers handling sewage cleanup tasks. That is also why sewage cleanup and related water damage restoration can become more expensive and dangerous for a DIY restorer.

The Role of Industry Standards and Certification in Professional Sewage Cleanup Services

Professional water damage restoration and sewage cleanup companies like SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead adhere to strict industry standards and guidelines to ensure that their work is effective, safe, and compliant with local regulations. Many restoration companies hold certifications from organizations like the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), which sets forth best practices for handling sewage cleanup projects.

The IICRC establishes and promotes globally recognized standards, including the IICRC S500 and IICRC S520, for water damage restoration and mold remediation, respectively. The IICRC S500 focuses on principles of water damage restoration, safety, and health, while the IICRC S520 covers mold remediation and abatement procedures. These standards provide a comprehensive framework for professionals to follow when dealing with sewage cleanup and water damage restoration projects.

By hiring a certified professional, you can be confident that your property will be cleaned and restored according to the highest standards of quality and safety. Certified professionals undergo rigorous training and examinations to demonstrate their competence in adhering to industry standards. Additionally, many professional sewage cleanup companies maintain affiliations with other relevant industry organizations, such as the Restoration Industry Association (RIA) and the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA), further ensuring their commitment to upholding best practices.

When you choose a professional sewage cleanup service with IICRC certification and affiliations to relevant industry organizations, you can trust that your property will be restored with the utmost care, professionalism, and adherence to industry guidelines. This not only guarantees the safety and health of those using the property but also provides peace of mind that the cleanup process will be completed with the highest level of expertise. This total peace of mind can be lacking in a DIY sewage cleanup project.

Finding the Right Sewage Cleanup Company: Questions to Ask and Factors to Consider

When looking for a professional sewage cleanup company, it's essential to do your research and ask the right questions. Some factors to consider include:

• Experience and expertise: Look for a company that specializes in water damage restoration and sewage cleanup, with a track record of successful projects.
• Certification and training: Make sure the technicians are trained and certified by reputable industry organizations like the IICRC.
• Insurance and liability coverage: Verify that the company has proper insurance coverage to protect you from potential liability.
• Availability and response time: Choose a company that offers 24/7 emergency services and can respond quickly to your needs.

Attempting a DIY sewage cleanup can be dangerous and may result in long-term damage to your property and health risks for you and your family. Instead, trust the professionals at SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead for comprehensive water damage restoration and sewage cleanup services. Our certified technicians have the experience, equipment, and expertise to ensure that your home or business is thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and restored to its pre-damage condition.

By choosing a professional sewage cleanup company like SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead, you can have peace of mind knowing that your property is in the hands of experienced and certified experts who are committed to delivering the highest quality service.

Don't put your health and property at risk by attempting a DIY sewage cleanup. Call SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead today at (404) 261-2925 for more information on our water damage restoration and sewage cleanup services. Let our team of restoration professionals help make it "Like it never even happened."

The Role of Dehumidifiers in Water Damage Restoration

2/16/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Trailer Mount Dehumidifier at a water damage restoration project in Buckhead, GA

Water damage can be a nightmare for any homeowner or business owner. It can cause extensive damage to the property, and the restoration process can be time-consuming and expensive. However, with the right equipment, such as dehumidifiers, the process can be made much easier and more effective.

What is Water Damage Restoration?

Water damage restoration is the process of restoring a property to its preloss condition after it has been damaged by water. The process involves several steps, including water extraction, drying, and dehumidification. The goal of water damage restoration is to prevent further damage and to restore the property to its preloss condition.

The Role of Dehumidifiers in Water Damage Restoration:

Dehumidifiers are an essential tool in the water damage restoration process. They help to remove excess moisture from the air and prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Dehumidifiers work by pulling in moist air and removing the moisture from it, then blowing out dry air. They can be used in conjunction with air movers and fans to speed up the drying process.

Benefits of Using Dehumidifiers:

Using dehumidifiers in the water damage restoration process has several benefits. Firstly, they help to prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause health problems for occupants of the property. They also help to prevent further damage to the property by removing excess moisture from the air. In addition, dehumidifiers can help to reduce the drying time, which can save time and money in the restoration process.

What are Some Types of Dehumidifiers Used in Water Damage Restoration?

There are several types of dehumidifiers used in property damage restoration. Some common types include:

1. Refrigerant Dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers work by cooling the air and removing moisture from it, similar to how an air conditioner works. They are commonly used for residential and commercial applications.

2. Desiccant Dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers use a desiccant material, such as silica gel or activated alumina, to absorb moisture from the air. They are commonly used in industrial and commercial settings.

3. Low Grain Refrigerant (LGR) Dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers are similar to refrigerant dehumidifiers, but they are designed to handle lower moisture levels and can be more effective at removing moisture from the air.

4. Ventilation Dehumidifiers: These dehumidifiers work by exchanging moist air for drier air from outside. They are commonly used in areas where there is a lot of outdoor air available, such as in crawl spaces.

The type of dehumidifier used will depend on the specific conditions of the water damage restoration project, such as the size of the affected area, the severity of the damage, and the type of materials affected. That is why our SERVPRO restoration technicians are trained to calculate and install the right type and number of dehumidifiers needed for each specific project.

What is the ideal air moisture level to prevent mold growth or bacterial growth?

The ideal air moisture level in a home to prevent mold growth or bacterial growth is between 30% to 50% relative humidity (RH). High levels of humidity, above 60% RH, can promote the growth of mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms, while low levels of humidity, below 30% RH, can cause dryness and discomfort for occupants. Maintaining the humidity level within the ideal range can help prevent the growth of mold and bacteria, while also providing a comfortable living environment. Using a hygrometer, a tool for measuring humidity, can help homeowners monitor and maintain the ideal humidity level in their homes.

What is the average moisture level difference between the input of air and output of air of a dehumidifier during a water damage restoration project?

The average moisture level difference between the input of air and output of air of a dehumidifier during a water damage restoration project can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the area, the severity of the water damage, and the type of dehumidifier used.

However, as a general guideline, a typical dehumidifier can remove 10-20 pints of water per day from a 500-1000 square feet area. This means that the moisture level difference between the input and output of air of a dehumidifier can be around 10-20 pints of water per day, or around 5-10 liters of water per day.

It is important to note that the actual moisture level difference can vary depending on the specific conditions of the water damage restoration project, and it is best to consult with a professional water damage restoration company like SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead to determine the appropriate type and number of dehumidifiers needed for the specific project.

Conclusion:

Dehumidifiers play a crucial role in the water damage restoration process. They help to remove excess moisture from the air, prevent the growth of mold and mildew, and reduce the drying time. If you need water damage restoration services, make sure that the company you choose has the necessary equipment, including dehumidifiers, to ensure a quick and effective restoration.

Thankfully, our SERVPRO team has the right equipment for any type of project. So whether your single-family home or multi-story commercial building experiences water damage, our SERVPRO team has the expertise and equipment to get your business restored quickly like it never even happened.

Call us at (404) 261-2925 for 24/7/365 support. We’re always here to help.

What are the hidden damages of a fire loss?

1/4/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Atlanta Buckhead serves all local areas throughout Atlanta, Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs and more.

Smoke & Soot Damage

There’s more to fire damage than meets the eye. In addition to the visible destruction caused by flames, fire can also cause hidden damages that can be hard to detect. The two main culprits of these hidden damages are smoke and soot damage, and water damage. Understanding these additional impacts on your property, and how to take care of them, can help ensure that you are reimbursed appropriately for your insurance claim.

One of the primary hidden damages of a fire loss is smoke and soot damage. Smoke and soot can cause a variety of issues, including:

• An unpleasant odor that can linger in the air and on surfaces
• Stained fabric and upholstery
• Discoloration of paint
• Rust, pitting, and corrosion of metal objects such as piping and jewelry
• Damage to flooring

It is important to address smoke and soot damage as soon as possible, as it can have long-term effects on both your health and your property. Inhaling or coming into contact with smoke and soot can cause respiratory issues, including bronchitis and asthma, and can even lead to more serious health problems such as stroke, heart attack, and cancer. Smoke and soot can also linger on surfaces and inside electronics and appliances, making it difficult to remove and contributing to further property and contents damage. To properly address smoke and soot damage, it is best to hire a professional cleaning and fire damage restoration service like SERVPRO of North Atlanta/ Buckhead.

Water Damage After a Fire

Water damage is another common hidden damage that can occur as a result of a fire. While firefighters may use large amounts of water to extinguish the flames, this can also result in significant water damage to your property. Water damage can cause structural issues, damage to electronic devices and appliances, and harm to furniture and important documents. If left unaddressed, water damage can also lead to the growth of mold, which releases spores into the air. To properly address water damage, it is best to hire a professional emergency restoration service. Most homeowners insurance policies will cover the cost of remedying mold when it is the result of a covered cause of loss.

If you have experienced a fire loss, it is important to have someone on your side to help you navigate the insurance claims process. An experienced fire damage restoration team like SERVPRO of North Atlanta/ Buckhead can make sure your home or business is fully restored properly while following your insurance company's processes to ensure nothing is left behind.

What are the next steps to take after experiencing a fire loss?

If you have experienced a fire loss, there are several steps you should take to ensure that you are properly compensated by your insurance company. These include:

• Documenting the damages: Take photos and make a list of all the damages to your property, including any hidden damages.
• Contacting your insurance company: Report the fire loss to your insurance company as soon as possible.
• Seeking professional help: Hire a professional fire damage restoration service to address smoke and soot damage and an emergency restoration service to address water damage.
• Considering hiring a public adjuster: A public adjuster can help you navigate the insurance claims process and ensure that you receive the maximum settlement for your claim.

Dealing with the aftermath of a fire loss can be overwhelming, but understanding the full extent of the damages and taking the necessary steps can ensure a complete fire damage restoration in your home or business.

Thankfully, our SERVPRO of North Atlanta/ Buckhead team is here to help. No matter how severe your fire damage may be, our experienced crew of restoration technicians uses cutting-edge techniques and equipment to restore fire damage "Like it never even happened." So whether your fire damage occurred in Atlanta, Buckhead, Brookhaven, or Sandy Springs, call our team today!

Tips to Prevent Frozen Water Pipes in Your Home

1/2/2023 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Team Bisig is here to help if you experience any kind of water damage from frozen pipes in your home or business in or near Atlanta, Georgia.

As the winter season approaches, it's important to be proactive in preventing frozen water pipes in your home. Frozen pipes not only disrupt your water supply, but they can also lead to costly water damage and the need for water damage restoration services.

Here are some tips for preventing frozen pipes in your home:

1. Insulate your pipes: Exposed pipes are more likely to freeze, so be sure to insulate any pipes that are located in unheated areas of your home, such as the attic, basement, or garage. You can use pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, or foam pipe insulation to protect your pipes.

2. Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature day and night: By keeping your thermostat at a consistent temperature, you can help prevent your pipes from freezing.

3. Allow a slow trickle of water to flow: When the temperature dips below freezing, allow a slow trickle of water to flow from your faucets. This can help prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting.

4. Keep your garage door closed: If you have pipes in your garage, be sure to keep the garage door closed to keep the area warm.

5. Disconnect your garden hoses: Before the winter season arrives, be sure to disconnect your garden hoses and store them in a safe place. If water is left in the hose, it can freeze and cause your outdoor faucets to burst.

6. Seal any drafts: Check for drafts around your windows and doors and seal any gaps to keep the cold air out.

By following these prevention tips, you can help protect your home from the costly damage caused by frozen pipes. However, if you do experience a pipe burst, it's important to quickly address the issue and call a professional water damage restoration company to properly assess the damage and restore your home. Don't hesitate to contact a water damage restoration company if you suspect that your pipes have burst or if you notice any signs of water damage in your home.

In conclusion, taking steps to prevent frozen pipes in your home is essential to avoiding the need for water damage restoration services. By insulating your pipes, keeping your thermostat consistent, allowing a slow trickle of water to flow, closing your garage door, disconnecting your garden hoses, and sealing any drafts, you can help protect your home from the costly damage caused by frozen pipes.

Commercial Systems Prone to Water Damage: SERVPRO of North Atlanta

4/28/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Atlanta is ready for whatever happens! We'll restore your business after any size of property damage.

Commercial properties present unique risks when it comes to water damage. Unlike residential homes, which are usually one story and have easily accessible crawl spaces and attics, commercial buildings can be many stories high with flat roofs and multiple storefront windows. They also often have expensive specialized equipment that can be very costly to repair or replace if damaged by water. In this blog post, we will discuss the different parts of a commercial building that are at risk for water damage, as well as some tips on how to prevent it.

Plumbing Systems

The first and most obvious risk for water damage in a commercial property is the plumbing system. Because commercial buildings have more bathrooms, kitchens, and other water-using fixtures, they also have larger and more complex plumbing systems. These systems are often located in hard-to-reach places, making them difficult to repair if they spring a leak.

One of the main water damage challenges according to The Hartford Insurance is an improperly maintained sprinkler system. By law, most commercial buildings must have a fire sprinkler system, but many building owners forget to regularly maintain and test these systems. While a well-maintained fire sprinkler system can help prevent extensive fire damage in the event of a fire, improper maintenance or disaster planning can cause extensive water damage that can flood multiple floors.

Another plumbing risk is burst pipes. Commercial buildings, especially high rises tend to run at a higher pressure than residential buildings. Therefore, a burst pipe has the potential to release significantly more water than a home.

One of the ways in which we help commercial property owners prevent catastrophic property damage before it happens is through our app-based Emergency Response Planning program (ERP).

Roofing Systems

In addition to the plumbing system, there are a number of exterior commercial building components that can experience water damage. One of the most common is the flat roof. Because flat roofs are not sloped like traditional pitched roofs, they tend to pool water instead of shedding it. This can lead to leaks and eventually, if left unaddressed, major water damage.

Some common commercial roofing systems include:

• Built-up Roofing (BUR): Often called tar and gravel roofs, these commercial roofing systems are built with a semi-continuous membrane installed in layers, then covered in aggregate. While they are usually simple to maintain, best practices suggest inspecting the roof for deterioration and possible leak points at least twice yearly.
• Thermoplastic Single-Ply Membrane Roofing (PVC & TPO): These roofs are installed in large rolls that are then welded together at the seams with heat. The material is very durable and oil-resistant. However, the heat-welding methods require skilled installation, which can lead to weak points and leak-prone areas if not performed correctly.
• EPDM Roofing: Some roofers call these "rubber roofs" because the material they are made of, ethylene propylene diene monomer is very rubber-like. This kind of roof is derived from oil and natural gas, and appears dark gray or black. When installed correctly and with the highest thickness available, this type of commercial roof will last a very long time with little to no issues. Unless you experience storm damage in your area, an annual check for leaks around the roof penetrations should suffice.

Window Systems

Commercial window systems are built for durability and use, however, they can often present a unique water damage challenge for commercial facilities. Most aluminum glazing systems aren't intended to be 100% waterproof. Most commercial window systems are meant to limit water penetration during extreme circumstances while also weeping water back out to the exterior.

By directing all moisture to the sill flashing, storefront systems limit water penetration. It's critical that the sill flashing be installed correctly in order to avoid water damage. Making sure that sealant is put on the top of the rear leg before installing the sill is one of the most important aspects of a good installation.

The most essential aspect of maintaining water penetration with a storefront is end dam fastening and sealing. Water will enter the building through the jamb locations if end dams are not properly fastened and sealed. Improperly (or missing) end dams can cause significant water damage to the interior drywall or flooring around commercial storefront windows.

Like anything else in a building, time and the elements can cause wear and tear and failure of these commercial window water control systems.

Commercial Water Damage Inspection Services

So if you notice moisture or water damage around your storefront windows, you should consider calling SERVPRO of North Atlanta to inspect for potential water damage issues. Our technicians are trained to identify, troubleshoot, and restore all types of commercial water issues.

Call today to schedule your commercial service!

(404) 261-2925

How to Respond to a House Fire: The Most Effective Strategies

3/28/2022 (Permalink)

No matter how serious the property damage is, SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead has the crew and the expertise to restore your home after a fire.

It's that time of year again - fire season. Between the months of February and May, the weather gets hotter and drier, while the risk of house fires goes up. A fire can start from any number of sources: a faulty wire, an overloaded outlet, a kitchen accident, or a bonfire left unattended. If your home catches fire, it's important to know how to respond quickly and effectively. In this blog post, we will discuss the most effective strategies for responding to a house fire. Stay safe!

If a Fire Starts, Here Is What You Need To Know:

The first line of defense against a fire is to know how to safely use the right fire extinguisher for a house fire. This simple step can save lives and tens of thousands in property damages. If the fire loses control, immediately get out and stay out, then call 9-1-1. Leave all your things where they are and save yourself.

If your clothing catches on fire, remember the old phrase: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

If you live in a building with elevators, it is important to use the stairs in case of a fire. A fire can short out the elevator electrical system, and the shaft can act like a chimney and rapidly fill up with dangerous smoke.

Understanding how to use doors to your advantage during a fire can mean the difference between life and death. If the door or handle is warm, do not open it. If you can't escape through the primary way, find another way out. Do not open any doors that are warm to the touch.

If some, heat, or flames block your exits, close any doors around you, place a wet towel under the doors and call the fire department or 9-1-1. Tell them exactly where you are so they know where to find you.

If you're near a window that you can't use as an escape, open it and wave a brightly colored cloth or use your phone flashlight to signal for help.

What To Do After a Fire

After a fire, it is important to contact a professional fire damage restoration company like SERVPRO of North Atlanta. We have the training, experience, and equipment to properly restore your home - "Like it never even happened."

If you try to clean up the fire damage yourself, you could end up making the situation worse both in your home and with your insurance company's process.

Trust the experts, and call today!

Spring Weather to Watch Out For In Georgia | SERVPRO® of North Atlanta/Buckhead

3/25/2022 (Permalink)

Extreme temperature changes can lead to severe weather. SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead is just a phone call away if you need immediate assistance.

The United States is a big country. It's the third largest in the world, after Russia and Canada. But if you don't count all of the US territories, China is bigger.

The USA has many different areas, each with their own weather. The weather can be very different from one area to the next. Each area faces different weather threats throughout the year.

In the spring, you can expect different weather in different parts of the country. In Georgia, we need to be aware of what will happen when two warm and cold air masses meet.

The Pacific Northwest is known for a lot of rainfall during the spring. This can cause floods and water damage to houses. Snowfall will continue at higher elevations, and the melting and runoff from that will bring new concerns of their own.

The Upper Midwest and Northeast have the longest winters. The temperatures stay cold for a long time. People in these parts of the country can expect snowstorms and blizzards throughout late spring or early summer in places from Maine to South Dakota, when temperatures start to rise.

Residents of the southern West Coast should be wary of intense heat waves. They should also be aware of possible safety concerns and tsunamis on Hawaii's South Pacific coast. This is because of tectonic activity.

The heartland of America (Iowa to Texas) is a region that will be affected by many different types of storms. These storms can include tornadoes, droughts, and wild fires. These events can be dangerous and cause a lot of property damage.

Extreme weather is a big concern in the Southeast, especially in Georgia. This includes tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in landlocked states, as well as hazardous rip currents on the coast and hurricanes during the spring. Georgia is often affected by thunderstorms and tornadoes in the spring and summer. These are often caused by remnants of tropical storms that have crossed the sea.

No matter where you live in the United States, it is always important to be prepared for the weather. Your state might have different weather than your friend's state, but you should always be ready for anything.

Luckily, help is only a phone call away if extreme weather causes you to suffer property damage from water, fire, or other agents. For prompt and professional restoration, contact SERVPRO of North Atlanta/Buckhead.

3 Easy Home Maintenance Tips to Help You Prevent a Water Damage Event: SERVPRO of North Atlanta / Buckhead

3/10/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of North Atlanta / Buckhead keeps its trucks ready to respond immediately to your water damage emergency.

Water damage can be a costly and devastating event. At SERVPRO of North Atlanta / Buckhead, we have often found that careful maintenance can diminish the risk and costs of water damage restoration. The water damage restoration process can be stressful, but by following some simple home maintenance tips, you can help prevent flooding from structural or maintenance issues in your home.

1) Assess your water heater to minimize water repair risk.

Water heater issues are common when it comes to our emergency water cleanup calls in Buckhead, GA and Peachtree Hills, GA. With regular maintenance, you can prevent a surprise water heater flood in your home. Make sure the water heater's thermostat is regulating the temperature properly to prevent pressure buildup that can cause a water leak.

If you notice an odd taste or odor in the water from your water heater, it may have rust or sediment buildup inside. Also, if your water starts to make strange noises, it could need inspection or replacement to prevent a surprise flood.

2) Inspect your appliance hoses and connectors for leaks and replace them if they start showing wear.

Look for any cracks, kinks, unraveling, wear, or corrosion on the hoses and connectors. If you find any damage, replace them immediately. Most manufacturers and plumbers also recommend replacing water hoses and connectors every 3-5 years to prevent surprise water damage issues.

3) Replace old caulking in your windows and doors to prevent wet areas and moisture around the windows.

We often get calls for mitigation work in Atlanta, GA and Sandy Springs, GA for this kind of mitigation work. Caulking your windows can not only stop water leaks but also help to keep out drafts. It is a simple process that you can do yourself. Most window caulks should last about five years, but you should inspect your caulking every year and replace it if you notice any cracks developing or if you see it pulling away from the window.

You should also check your exterior door flashings for holes or rust that can allow water entry. If your doors are properly caulked, you can also help prevent premature flashing failure.

We are Here to Help for All of Your Water Repair Needs

If you or someone you know needs water damage restoration service, our team at SERVPRO of North Atlanta / Buckhead is Here to Help!

Save our number for the future or call today for rapid response from our IICRC trained water restoration technicians.

Call today! (404) 261-2925

Lightning and Risk of Fire to Your Home

2/21/2022 (Permalink)

Electrical storms and strikes can develop quickly, wreaking havoc on your life by causing your home to catch fire.

Electrical Storms and Potential Risks To Your Property

Lightning is one of the most dangerous natural forces in the world, and this phenomenon has the ability to cause significant damage to the homes that it strikes. One of the major hazards that it poses is the threat of lighting fire to your residence. If you are a homeowner in Morningside, GA, read on for more information about electrical storms and the potential risks to your property.

How Does It Enter Your Home?

A bolt of lightning will always find the quickest path to enter the ground, and unfortunately, homes can sometimes be part of that path. Your home can be entered a number of ways.

• Direct strikes
  
• Power, cable or phone lines
  
• Electrical gates or doors
  
• Metal pipes
  
  

How Do Fires Start?

Once a strike occurs, the risk of a house fire is considerable. A bolt is a current of electricity that can reach temperatures comparable with the surface of the sun. The intense heat is enough to ignite a flame, especially in highly flammable parts of the home, such as the attic or within the walls where insulation is present. Electrical charges can also create dangerous sparks responsible for lighting fire to homes and buildings.

Stay Safe During Storms

Remember, you are within striking distance if you can hear thunder. During storms, stay inside, away from doors and windows, and avoid using items that place you in contact with plumbing or electricity. If your home suffers a strike, contact the fire department to check over your property. If you detect smoke, call 911 and evacuate everyone from the premises immediately.

Electrical storms and strikes can form quickly and wreak havoc in your life by lighting fire to your home. If your dwelling is a victim of this type of blaze, don’t hesitate to reach out to an emergency restoration service to assist you.

3 Steps to Take After a Pipe Break

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage due to a bursting pipe in Lenox Square, GA.

After a Pipe Break, Follow These 3 Steps

Many homeowners in Lenox Square, GA  worry about a flash flood when the weather outside gets a little too wet. However, one commonly overlooked source of flooding is bursting pipes. A homeowner should contact a professional to fix a broken pipe immediately. It is the only way to curtail the level of water damage from getting any worse.

1. Stop the Flow of Water

The first thing you as a homeowner can do is prevent the flooding from getting any worse. You will need to shut off the main water line. After you do so, you still need to drain the pipes of all water. This will require you to run every sink and flush each toilet in your house at least once. You will also need to turn off your home’s water heater. Once there is no running tap water left, the leak should stop entirely.

2. Inspect the Damage

Next, you will need to locate the burst pipes. If you are able to find the broken pipe, then you should take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes. If you cannot find the culprit, then you will need to bring in a professional crew as soon as possible.

3. Contact a Professional Drying and Remediation Crew

For homeowners in Lenox Square, GA who think they are fairly handy around the house, it is always a good idea to call a professional team to take care of any water damage just to be safe. There is a lot of remediation that needs to take place, such as drying any damaged structures and preventing mold growth. Professionals also know how to safely work around water to prevent electrocution or illness.

It only takes a matter of minutes for bursting pipes to wreak havoc on your home. The faster you can respond to such an emergency, the better off you and your family are sure to be.