How to Prevent Toilet Overflow

6/6/2024 (Permalink)

Prevent a Toilet Overflow

Every homeowner in Springfield/Mt Vernon dreads coming home to face a flooded toilet. Regardless of the toilet spurting clean or contaminated water into the bathroom, it requires a professional’s immediate help. The flooding may be a result of sewer damage causing waste to go back up through the pipes into the toilet. You can do a lot of good by preventing overflow before it happens by taking a few preventive measures.

1. Do Not Flush Random Items Down the Toilet

This is a particular concern in households with children, but even adults have been known to flush things down the toilet they should not. Some common items to keep out of there include:

• Napkins
• Papers
• Soaps
• Baby wipes
• Lotions
• Body creams
  
  

Flushing these items can cause them to get stuck in the pipes. Even things such as body cream, lotion and grease should stay out of toilets because they can harden through the pipes, causing a backup.

2. Clean the Toilet Regularly

In addition to keeping solid objects out of the toilet that can cause significant sewer damage, you also want to perform regular maintenance on the septic tank system. You should contact a sewage company once every eight years to clean and maintain your home’s septic tank. You can also clean your toilet routinely by using disinfectants and liquid detergent.

3. Avoid Flushing

Hopefully, the kind of toilet backup you will contend with will not be anything serious. Some toilets will merely overflow a little bit before receding. You may be able to clean up a small mess on your own, but you want to avoid flushing until you know the issue is resolved. Use a plunger to try to move the clog out of position. If nothing at your disposal seems to be working, then you should hire a professional plumber in Springfield/Mt Vernon to come out and address the sewer damage.

Water Damage Repair | Springfield/Mt Vernon

2/14/2024 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Damage and Restoration services are available 24/7 in Springfield/Mt Vernon because our team covers territories in all these states. This means if your commercial or multi-family residential building is damaged by water and requires a large-scale approach to restoration we can help. We have the labor, equipment and resources to mobilize our team and scale up production to meet the moment anywhere in our territories and beyond.

* This means if a major storm causes damage in a shopping mall covering multiple floors, we can help.

* If a pipe burst on the 8th floor of a multi-family property causing water damage from the 8th floor down, we can help.

* If a music venue has water damage in an area of the building where electrical and musical equipment can be damaged, we are the ones they trust to fix the problem and stop damage before it gets a worse.

Basically we are water damage professionals and can manage, restore and reconstruct your commercial property after a water damage event. We have been part of restoration efforts after most of the major storms on the east coast and in the gulf over the last decade and are called in when project management, labor and equipment are in high demand.

We also offer storm preparation services. So if your commercial property is prone to flooding call us today. We can help you prepare for the next major storm and help you to avoid costly damage.

Call Us! 703-644-0620

A Water Damage Restoration Company Can Save You Thousands

2/14/2024 (Permalink)

You will find many restoration options if your business or home is affected by water damage, such as a burst pipe, flood or roof leak. This is why it is important to consider who you hire to fix your property.

1. It is essential to evaluate the property and determine what can be saved. Our experienced managers will quickly determine the best way to save the structure. This is a crucial step that can save you a lot of money in the long-term.

2. Equipment for drying. Hire a company that doesn't use the most efficient drying and air scrubbing tools. This will likely mean they will have to use the equipment for longer periods of time on your property, which could cost you more. We invest in the most efficient restoration equipment to ensure our techs work efficiently. This is the best way to save money for our clients in the long-term.

3. All phases of restoration and reconstruction are offered by us. We are a highly efficient company and employ skilled and experienced carpenters and craftsmen to complete your job professionally.

Are there differences in flood & sewer insurance?

1/2/2024 (Permalink)

We take pride in serving your neighborhood! We are a locally owned and operated franchise 703-644-0620!

Yes, below we’ve described some differences in flood and sewer backup insurance.

Sewer Insurance: Most homeowners insurance policies come with an endorsement for water backup and sump discharge which will cover losses, up to a certain limit, caused by the backup of water or waterborne materials through a sewer or through a drain. It will also cover water or waterborne material that overflows from a sump, even if the backup of water is due to the mechanical breakdown of the sump pump. Coverage includes damage to property but excludes the sump pump and any related equipment that has broken down.

Flood Insurance: is a type of property insurance that covers a dwelling for losses sustained by water damage specifically due to flooding caused by heavy or prolonged rain, melting snow, coastal storm surges, blocked storm drainage systems, or levee dam failure.

Our highly trained restoration technicians are prepared to respond immediately to flood or water damage at your property. We have experience, expertise, and training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. 

Cleaning Personal Belongings After a Broken Pipe

6/2/2023 (Permalink)

If you have the misfortune of dealing with a broken pipe in Springfield/Mt Vernon, VA your first instinct may be to get rid of any items the water came in contact with. Water in your home can cause incredible damage to your floor and sheetrock, and having to discard any personal belongings may devastate you. Fortunately, with the help of dry cleaning and ultrasonic cleaning, many of the contents of your home can be saved after broken pipes flood your home.

Non-Porous Items

Depending on how much flooding was caused by broken pipes in your home, you may have many items to clean. Anything that came in contact with the water should be scrubbed thoroughly, including non-porous items like the ones listed below:

• Toys
• Appliances
• Kitchen utensils
• Furniture
• Storage containers

Scrubbing these items thoroughly may reduce the number of bacteria on them, but ultrasonic cleaning may be required to completely remove all germs. This type of cleaning involves spraying water infused with microscopic bubbles onto the item. As the bubbles pop, they effectively clean each item and remove all traces of bacteria quickly and easily.

Porous Items

When you begin to clean up after you have standing water in your home, you may have the urge to discard any item that could have absorbed water. Even porous items like the ones listed below can be saved with the right care.

• Upholstered furniture
• Bedding
• Curtains
• Stuffed animals
• Clothes

The key is to have any kind of fabric that may have absorbed floodwater dry cleaned. The special process and solution that dry cleaners use can usually remove every trace of floodwater from fabric, allowing them to be fully restored.

No one wants to throw away personal belongings just because they came in contact with water from a broken pipe. Abundant moisture in your home can cause enough damage, so resist the urge to discard your sentimental belongings. With the proper care and dry cleaning, nearly anything in your home can be saved. 

Leaking Roof Causes Water Damage

5/8/2023 (Permalink)

Whenever it rains, there is a chance for water damage from water entering the structure through a leak in a roof, windowsill, or foundation crack. Our local SERVPRO Springfield/Mt Vernon team is trained and certified to restore water damage, no matter how big the job is. 

Inspect and Repair Your Home’s Exterior

You can prevent water from entering your home by inspecting your home’s exterior for any place where water can enter the home and making repairs as needed.

• Caulk and seal windows
• Inspect the roof for missing and aging shingles
• Check your rain gutters and remove any debris that may be clogging them
• Check your downspouts and clear any clogs and make sure they are draining away from the house
• Gutter guards are a good way to prevent clogs and water intrusion into the house
• Check your sprinkler systems and make sure they are not spraying water into the house and that water is not pooling around the home’s foundation
• Make sure water drains away from the building.Water is invasive and will find its way into a structure easily when water is allowed to pool around the foundation. After a storm, or when the ground is already saturated by rainwater, the water may enter the foundation wall through any cracks.

Call Us Today!

When you have a water intrusion issue in your Springfield/Mt Vernon home or commercial business, our local team of technicians in Springfield/Mt Vernon will restore the rain damage “Like it never even happened.” Call us today at 703-644-0620.

All SERVPRO Franchises are independently owned and operated.

Microbial Growth - Take Action

5/3/2023 (Permalink)

When you discover microbial growth it is essential to act fast. Microbial Growth, Mold, is umbrella term that includes all types of fungi or fungus. In homes that experience a water leak, a pipe bursting, or anywhere that has moisture; there is a chance that it will begin to grow.

Once there is a moisture source, microbial growth will spread and be left untreated. These are not consumable mushrooms, and we suggest avoiding this area due to severity of growth. If you see mushrooms growing, we recommend leave it to the experts. When mushrooms grow, it means that the spores are everywhere. 

If you discover a water leak, in your residential or commercial property we suggest you contact our team at SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt Vernon 703-644-0620 whether you need services or would like an inspection. 

The Science of Drying

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

Did you know there is actually a science behind the process of drying? Having the knowledge of psychometrics is essential to restoring a water-damaged structure to its preloss condition. While your initial reaction may be able a few towels to mop up the mess and place a fan or two around the damage area, your local SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt Vernon professionals are trained in the science of drying and follow strict industry-approved standards to help lower the chances of any secondary damages. If your home or business suffers a water damage, your local SERVPRO team will: 

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

After the Storm... What's Next?

2/27/2023 (Permalink)

The second you notice flooding in your home do not hesitate to call SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt Vernon immediately! Time is the biggest factor in preventing further damage, as well as slowing the spread of water into places like your floors and walls. With a quick enough reaction to the issue can make a huge difference! Regardless, if you notice damage days after a storm we can still help. With a team of experts who know the ins and outs of storm damage we can find the solution to your issue! Not only do we perform the cleanup and treatment of the area, we restore what was ruined. When we leave it will be, "Like it never even happened." 

Water Damage Nightmares

1/6/2023 (Permalink)

Nightmares Happen Even When You Are Awake

Water damage occurs when excess water begins to pool in areas where it shouldn’t. This issue may arise due to bursting or leaking pipes, faulty or malfunctioning household appliances, or a natural disaster or weather related issue. One appliance that frequently causes water damage in homes is the washing machine. Homeowners leave washing machines unattended to complete other chores throughout the house or even fall asleep until the next morning. DO NOT MAKE THIS MISTAKE! In some instances, washing machines may fail to transition from the “filling stage” and continue to fill with water until the water is shut off. This causes water to overflow from the machine and begin to fill the house.

It only takes minutes for water to quickly spread throughout the property, saturating everything in its path. Water may be absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings, furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets, and photographs, books, and other paper goods may swell and warp.  If you are unfortunate enough to have to face water damage in your home, don’t do it alone. Contact SERVPRO of Springfield / Mt Vernon, your regional flood specialist (703)644-0620

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

3 Tips to Help You Prevent Water Damage...

6/3/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt Vernon has the experience, expertise and proper training to restore your home or business quickly and properly. We use advanced inspection and extraction equipment to find the water and remove it as quickly as possible. Our Technicians will monitor and document the drying process to ensure your property is back to “Like it never even happened."

Water Damage can be a costly and devastating event. We have often found that careful routine maintenance can lower the risks and costs of water damage restoration. The restoration process can be stress, but by following some simple home maintenance tips, you can prevent flooding from structural issues.

If you or someone you know needs restoration services; Save our number for the future or call today for a rapid response (703)644-0620.

1) Assess your water heater

Water heater issues are common when it comes to our emergency calls in Springfield/Mt Vernon. With regular routine maintenance, you can prevent this from happening. Make sure the water heater’s thermostat is regulating the temperature properly to prevent any pressure buildup.

Tip: 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 may require you needing an inspection or replacement.

2) Appliance hoses and connectors

Always check for cracks, kinks, unraveling, wear, or corrosion on hoses & connectors. If you find any damage to these replace them immediately. DO NOT WAIT! Most manufacturers and plumbers also recommend replacing water hoses/connectors every 3-5 years.

3) Replace old caulking in your windows and doors

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 always inspect your caulking at least every six months to a year; and replace it if you notice any cracks developing.

Tip: You should also check your exterior door flashings for holes or rust that can allow water entry.

What Category & Class Is Your Water Loss?

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

The category and class of your water loss refers to the level of contamination in the water, considering its originated source. ALL water damages require restoration, but some cases are a little less severe.

If this happens to you whether it’s your home or commercial building - Contact SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt Vernon 703-644-0620.

3 Basic Categories of Water:

Category 1 – Originates from a sanitary source. It may not always remain clean after it comes into contact with other surfaces or materials.

Example: Water supply lines, toilet tank, or faucet.

Category 2 – Significant contamination and has the potential to cause discomfort or sickness if contacted or consumed by humans.

Example: Washing machine overflow, toilet overflow, or a dishwasher overflow. These situations can quickly escalate into a Category 3 if not properly taken care of.

Category 3 – Grossly unsanitary contaminated water. This contains human and/or animal waste, along with other contaminants that could cause severe illness or even death if ingested.

Example: Sewer backup, flooding from rivers or streams, standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.  

4 Basic Class of Water:

Class 1 – It affects only part of a room or area, or larger areas containing materials that have absorbed minimal moisture.

Class 2 – The entire room or area is affected. Water has gone up less than 24 inches. There is moisture reading in structural materials like plywood, particle board, structural wood and concrete.

Class 3 – Water may have come from overhead. The ceilings, walls, carpet, insulation and subfloor are saturated in the entire area.

Class 4 – Wet materials with very low permeance like hardwood, plaster and concrete have deep pockets on saturation. They may need to be treated with low levels of humidity and often take longer drying times and more specialized methods.

Common Causes of Water Damage...

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

Our highly trained and certified professionals are here to handle any disaster you find yourself in (703)644-0620.

Water damage is a common problem that many homeowners in Springfield/Mt Vernon face each year. These problems can cause thousands of dollars in damages, and even force the family out of the house temporarily. The worst thing about water damage is that it can happen at ANY time.

When water creeps into areas of your property where it shouldn’t be, your floor could warp. Water damage also discolors walls and ceilings. Moisture can cause microbial growth if the damages are not immediately addressed.

List of Common Causes:

1. Severe Weather (Thunderstorms)
2. Clogged gutters
3. Leaking / Burst pipes
4. Washing Machine / Water Supply Line
5. Blocked drains
6. Water Heater
7. Toilet leaks

If you discover water damage inside your home, call SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt Vernon our highly trained and certified professionals are here to handle any disaster you find yourself in (703)644-0620.

Flood damage prevention

2/8/2022 (Permalink)

According to the National Flood Insurance program flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States causing $2.7 billion in losses between 2001 and 2010. Flooding is not covered by most homeowner’s insurance policies so it may be necessary to buy a separate flood policy for your home.

Here are a couple of tips to keep water from entering your home during a heavy rain event:

1. Fix foundation leaks that may allow water to enter your home.
2. Make sure your roof is secure and protected.
3.  Clear gutters and drains

If water ever floods your home, getting someone on site as soon as possible is key to keeping the amount of damage to a minimum. SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt. Vernon is ready to respond at any time and also provides a free assessment and estimate.

How to protect the pipes from freezing

2/7/2022 (Permalink)

1. Insulate pipes - Exposed pipes are most likely to freeze. The more insulation you use, the better protected your pipes will be. Make sure to drain the water from outside faucets and insulate them from outside elements.

2. Let water drip - Simply maintaining a light trickle or steady stream of water in your faucets can go a long way in preventing water from freezing up in your pipes.

3. Steady thermostat  - Keeping a consistent temperature in your home or office puts less strain on the furnace. 

All we need to follow these tips is to reminisce on the events following the freeze of 2021. Rolling blackouts, homes completely destroyed due to burst pipes, and citizens stranded with no place to go to keep warm and stay safe. Our team is here, and we are Ready for whatever happens®. 

What to do when your refrigerator leaks

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

What happened?

The common cause for these water leaks is the plastic water line behind the refrigerator will crack, a slow drip begins and water pools behind the fridge unnoticed. Another common cause is excess condensation buildup which has the same effect. Water damage from your fridge can cause numerous problems in your home especially since the problem can go unnoticed for so long, at this point the damage has already taken a toll on your floors and surrounding areas. Moisture and heat in the dark environment create perfect conditions for mold to form and your floorboards to rot. This should not be overlooked. Over at SERVPRO we are experts in mold remediation and will gladly remove and prevent further frustrations for you.

So now what?

It is important to first clean up any visible water to avoid further damage and possibilities of mold occurring. Once this is done you should inspect your fridge and see if there are any noticeable leaks or areas where condensation may be forming to excess. It is important to replace any faulty connections to stop the immediate leak if possible. If you are able to, assess the damage done to the area under and around the fridge. Most of the time floorboards will show visible damage, but the real problems can occur underneath where you cannot see. We recommend you give us a call at SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt/Vernon where we are available 24/7 to assist. We will send a team out to stop any further damage and spread of mold and help prevent this issue from occurring again. While you may be able to swap out the damaged areas of flooring, mold can continue to grow and cause more problems in the future. With many years of experience we will make the cleanup a quick and easy experience.

Pro tip: add a water alarm behind/under your fridge to catch any further problems from getting far

Help, My Photos and Documents are Wet

3/29/2021 (Permalink)

The water is everywhere and everything is wet, my wedding albums, my parent’s childhood photos, even the birth certificates are wet! HURRY!

Have no Fear SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt. Vernon is here to Help! The Faster to any size Disaster Team is on its way!

How can you help our wet photos and document, is often what we are asked? Getting items dry and restored back to the original condition is our goal when we do Document Restoration.

As the industry leader, we have access to the only HIPAA certified document response crew in the area. Response time is critical to stabilize the wet documents before they begin to degrade. All documents are treated using the HIPPA confidentiality safeguards and rules.

Document Restoration begins with a method called vacuum freeze-drying.  The documents are brought under extreme vacuum to low temperatures and sublimation will remove the moisture directly into a gas form.

Here is a list of items that can be saved using vacuum freeze drying:

• Books and manuscripts: coated papers, maps, parchment, pulp paper, drafting linens, textbooks, reference books, manuals
• Business/Personal records and documents: legal/bank/company files, patient and medical records, x-rays, engineering and architectural plans and drawings, catalogs, reference materials, certificates, contracts, passports, transcripts, tax records
• Historical and collectible items: archival documents, rare documents, maps, stamp collections, money collections
• Keepsakes: photographs, leather, and hide items, newspaper articles, recipe books, cards, scrapbooks, baby books, wedding albums, yearbooks, baskets, awards & achievements
• Textiles: embroidery and needlework, silks, tapestries, flags
• Artwork: acrylic paintings, linen drawings, watercolors

Toilet running all day

3/26/2021 (Permalink)

The experts at SERVPRO are here to help! You can call at any time of the day or year and we have crews ready to roll! We have trailers, trucks, and equipment always ready to go. No job is too big or small for our crew at SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt. Vernon.

When our crew arrives they will get a plan on what we will need to do, we will start the drying process. Once drying equipment is in place it can take 3-5 days for it to be dry. But SERVPRO will not take any equipment from a job until the loss area is dry.

Choosing SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt. Vernon to assist your needs will make your water loss is taken care of efficiently.  

Example for calling SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt. Vernon:

You come home from work and go into your basement and you have water to your ankles, you look around and notice it is coming through the walls and ceiling you go and find where else it is leaking from, you notice it is from your top floor toilet and it will not stop running. Not sure what to do next? Call SERVPRO and have us come take a look at what we can do to help get the water out and the drying process started. Once SERVPRO has a look at what needs to be done we can get a plan on what will happen next.

How to Shut Off Water in Case of an Emergency

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Knowing where your main water shut off is essential. It can help you prevent major damage in case of an emergency. Things like a sewage back up, broken pipe, or broken seal can cause thousands in water damage if you aren’t able to shut your water off. In the winter months it is common for pipes to burst, severe cold weather can cause pipes to expand and break but being able to locate and turn off the valve can prevent some damage. It is also good to know where the main shut off is if you leave your house for a long period of time.

Steps to take if this happens to you

• Turn off your water main
• Drain the faucets to release the pressure
• Inspect and fix the broken pipe
• Bring in a professional drying crew

Properly restoring your home after a water damage event requires specialized equipment and products. This advanced equipment helps us to remove the water, even hidden moisture, quickly and efficiently. We then dry the structure with powerful dehumidifiers. Finally, our technicians will clean the affected area with professional grade cleaning and sanitizing agents for your comfort and safety.

How to Prevent Moisture in Your Home

2/16/2021 (Permalink)

Most people think of water damage they usually think of flooding after storms. That isn’t always the case though, somethings you wouldn’t expect what may be causing moisture to build up in certain spaces in your home. Follow some of the tips below to help prevent moisture build-up in your home.

Humidity and Indoor Moisture

When warm air comes in contact with a cool surface it creates moisture. Things like showering, dishwashing, and cooking add moisture to the air. Cold water pipes that are uninsulated can also cause water droplets to accumulate in the summer. When condensation and water droplets occur, they can run down walls and into corners of your home. Once this happens, things can start to rot, paint can peel, and provide a good environment for mold to grow. 

Ways to reduce moisture

• Use a dehumidifier
• Run fans in the house
• Run the A/C
• Clean A/C filters
• Take colder/ shorter shower
• Cover pots while cooling
• Cover aquariums

4 Problems That Can Cause a Toilet Leak

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

The toilet in your bathroom is a relatively simple apparatus, but multiple things can still go wrong that cause it to leak water onto your floor. There are four things that plumbers look for to determine the reason behind your leaking toilet.

1. Loose Bolts

Pooling water at the base of the toilet can mean several things. The easiest thing to fix is a loose bolt. Before you call for a plumber in Springfield/Mt. Vernon, try tightening the bolts around the base. If this stops your bathroom leak, that is likely the only thing that was wrong.

2. Faulty Gasket

The wax gasket is the seal that holds the toilet in place. It also keeps water from escaping and damaging your floor. To replace a dry or broken gasket, you have to remove the toilet and scrape the old gasket off the floor. Once you've determined the flange is intact, you can replace the gasket and return the toilet to its position. Most homeowners have the tools to do this themselves, but a plumber can help if you are not comfortable with the task.

3. Broken Valve

If the shutoff valve is broken or malfunctioning, it will probably result in a leaking toilet. Water damage specialists often have to replace walls and flooring when a faulty valve releases a lot of water in a short amount of time. Plumbers can inspect and replace bad valves so that your toilet runs efficiently.

4. Cracked Bowl

If the toilet bowl itself is cracked, water is likely to leak out of it. If you cannot see the crack, it can be difficult to determine the source of the problem. Inspect your tank thoroughly to look for this possibility.
A leaking toilet is often an easy fix, but you want to make sure to fix it quickly. Finding the source of the leak is the first step in doing so.

Restoring Water Damage in Virginian Homes

2/8/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO Technicians Report to the Flooded Scene with Equipment to Properly Dry Out the Property

Virginian homes are vulnerable to flooding from weather and more common accidents. It is especially true for carpets and wood floors. No matter where the water comes from, a professional restoration service can deal with removing, cleaning, and remediating the ill effects a flood causes.
 
Treating water damage first requires stopping the flow and removal of any standing water as soon as possible. SERVPRO certifies each member of our 24-hour response team on every piece of equipment needed for this and every action we take to return a home to its original state.
 
Since most house flooding comes from failed plumbing, stopping it is relatively simple. Upon arrival to a job site, one of our technicians first turns off the water main to the house. With that accomplished, the response team performs a complete inspection. If the weather permits, we open every window and door to the residence to enable crossflow of air.
 
Now, SERVPRO technicians bring in the equipment needed to remove water; commercial grade pumps and water extraction wands.  The pumps remove water down to the surface of carpets and floors and then we use the wands to draw out water trapped either in or under both.
 
Once the carpets are free of water, they are now light enough to lift. It allows technicians to examine the floor for any remaining moisture. If there is, we use a combination of air movers and exhaust fans to force warm, dry air under and over the carpet to dry it. If there is a pad underneath, they remove and dispose of it.
 
The same fans and air movers work well for wood floors as well to dry them. If a moisture meter test still indicates the presence of water, it may be necessary to drill holes into the floor in corners or under the baseboards to allow additional ventilation for drying. In cases where there is water pooled under the floorboards, SERVPRO technicians may have to remove one or two boards to use the extraction wands.
 
Most of the effects from water damage can be eliminated or significantly reduced by quickly removing the moisture and drying out the affected property. For more information about what SERVPRO of Springfield/Mt. Vernon can do for your home, call us today at 703-644-0620.
 

Water Damage Prevention

7/23/2019 (Permalink)

Avoid the cost and hassle of severe water leaks! Follow SERVPRO of Springfield/ Mt. Vernon’s simple tips to prevent water damage in your home.

• Clean your gutters at least twice a year to avoid costly gutter damage. Defective, clogged downspouts can cause severe water damage to your home- including rot, mold, and basement flooding. Be especially cautious after heavy rain and snow storms to ensure that your spouts are properly secured and that no residual water remains to seep into your house.

• Disconnect idle water hoses. This protects your home against busted pipes, damaged walls, and flooded floors.

• Maintain appliance pipes and hoses. In our professional restoration experience, defective pipes and leaky hoses are among the most frequent causes of water loss. Be sure to replace yours regularly to prevent significant water damage.

• Install a water detector. A water detector will immediately alert you at the sign of water damage. Our professionally trained restoration crew suggests that homeowners install this device close to areas most prone to water damage i.e. water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, toilets, etc. This prevention method will protect both your home and your pockets from the physical and financial costs of water remediation.

• Monitor your water bill and water pressure. Too high water pressure can cause erected pipes and hoses. Likewise, irregular water bills can point to problems with the water flow in your home. Act immediately on any signs of water damage or leaks to prevent mold, mildew, and other water disasters.

If you have any questions, or if you need our help in protecting your home against water damage, contact us today at (703) 644-0620. Our heroes are ready to help 24/7!

A Vacation Ruiner

7/16/2019 (Permalink)

Nothing can ruin a vacation faster than a phone call alerting you to catastrophic damage to your house, or returning to a home that has been sitting in water due to a broken/frozen pipe or a hot water heater that defaulted into a flood. Turn off your main water valve before going on vacation! 

If you are traveling during the winter it is also a good idea to drain the lines too.  It is easy to drain the lines by simply turning on a faucet on the main floor or in the basement.  If you do not know where your main valve is, ask your plumber.  It is also a great idea to make sure that the valve works.

If for any reason you are not able to turn it off yourself sometimes the water company will shut it off for you.  This simple act can prevent thousands of dollars of damages.

Water Damage Nightmares: The Washing Machine

5/2/2018 (Permalink)

Water damage occurs when excess water begins to pool in areas where it shouldn’t. This issue may arise due to bursting or leaking pipes, faulty or malfunctioning household appliances, or a natural disaster or weather related issue. One appliance that frequently causes water damage in homes is the washing machine. Homeowners leave washing machines unattended to complete other chores throughout the house or even fall asleep until the next morning. DO NOT MAKE THIS MISTAKE! In some instances, washing machines may fail to transition from the “filling stage” and continue to fill with water until the water is shut off. This causes water to overflow from the machine and begin to fill the house.

It only takes minutes for water to quickly spread throughout the property, saturating everything in its path. Water may be absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings, furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets, and photographs, books, and other paper goods may swell and warp.  If you are unfortunate enough to have to face water damage in your home, don’t do it alone. Contact SERVPRO of Reston, your regional flood specialist, at 703-471-6040.

• We are Available 24 hours/7 days per week
• We’re a Preferred Vendor to many National Insurance Companies
• We Bill The Insurance Directly – One Less Thing For You To Worry About
• Our Technicians are Highly-Trained in Water Restoration Techniques
• We use s500 IICRC Restoration Standards
• Advanced Inspection and Extraction Equipment

Water Damage and Category type

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

IICRC Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Water Damage Restoration sets three categories of water that cause damage in buildings. They are summarized as follows:
Category 1 Water - Refers to a source of water that does not pose substantial threat to humans and classified as "Clean Water". Category 1 water may become contaminated if it mixes with soils or floor coverings, building assemblies, etc... Time and temperature can promote growth and amplification of microorganisms in water can cause Category 1 water to degrade.

Examples of category 1 water are: a broken water supply line (including the toilet), and tub or sink overflows. 

Category 2 Water - Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants.  These contaminants can cause discomfort or sickness when exposed or consumed. This water type carries micro organisms and is nicknamed "Gray water."

Examples of catagory 2 water are:  toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, dishwasher water discharge, and washing machine water discharge.

Category 3 Water - Nicknamed "Black Water" and are grossly unsanitary. These indoor water sources  contain unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness.

Examples of type 3 water are:  water sources from sewage, seawater, stream or river water, ground surface water or standing water.

Category 2 Water that is not promptly removed and remained stagnant may be re classified as Category 3 Water. Toilet back-ups that originate from beyond the toilet trap is considered black water contamination regardless of visible content or color.

Knowing the classification of your water may help you understand personal safety concerns and the necessary material and debris removal anticipated.

Hose Bib Winterization - Avoid Water Damage

1/4/2018 (Permalink)

To prevent damage to your home drain your outside hose bibs during the winter months!  If you don't you run the risk of water freezing in the pipes; then when the exterior hose bibs are turned on, they will attempt to push water through, breaking the pipes and flooding inside your walls. Last spring several Fort Belvoir families were inconvenienced by these burst pipes and the ensuing repairs. Your hose bibs have been equipped with anti-siphon devices to prevent your pipes from storing – and subsequently freezing – excess water. 

***** Always disconnect hoses from the exterior hose bib faucets. *****

If you use your faucets during the winter months make certain to drain the hose bib of any excess water. 

If you do not expect to use the outdoor faucets during the winter months, we advise that you drain the hose bibs and shut off the water line from inside your home.

This simple process can save you a lot of aggravation and money.

Ice Dams can lead to roof and mold issues

12/22/2017 (Permalink)

Ice dams are a silent enemy of your roof

Ice dams for when snow melts.  The water runs down your roof and refreezes forming icicles. This only occurs when part of your roof warms to above 32 degrees F, warm enough to melt the snow, while the roof edge remains below freezing. When snow builds up on the roof the heat from inside the house will warm and melt the snow which runs down the roof side and refreezes. 

The water pools up and freezes back up under the shingles.  In some cases it can go as high as 6 to 10 feet up the roof. Later as it melts, it drips through the roof and into your walls or worst yet your ceiling. 

Damage can be serious; Can cause peeling paint, rot, mold and more. The problem is most common after a heavy snow.

Faster to Your Springfield/ Mt. Vernon Water Clean up

3/17/2017 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Springfield/ Mt. Vernon provides emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—including all holidays.

Faster To Any Size Disaster

Flooding and water damage is very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more.  SERVPRO of Springfield/ Mt. Vernon arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.

Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 – 703-644-0620

Water Damage Timeline

Within Minutes

• Water quickly spreads throughout your property, saturating everything in its path.


• Water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings.


• Furniture finishes may bleed, causing permanent staining on carpets.


• Photographs, books, and other paper goods start to swell and warp.

Hours 1 - 24:

• Drywall begins to swell and break down.


• Metal surfaces begin to tarnish.


• Furniture begins to swell and crack.


• Dyes and inks from cloth and paper goods spread and stain.


• A musty odor appears.

48 Hours to 1 Week:

• Mold and mildew may grow and spread.


• Doors, windows, and studs swell and warp.


• Metal begins to rust and corrode.


• Furniture warps and shows signs of mold.


• Paint begins to blister.


• Wood flooring swells and warps.


• Serious biohazard contamination is possible.

More Than 1 Week:

• Restoration time and cost increase dramatically; replacing contaminated materials and structural rebuilding may be extensive.


• Structural safety, mold growth, and biohazard contaminants pose serious risks to occupants.

About SERVPRO of Springfield/ Mt. Vernon

SERVPRO of Springfield/ Mt. Vernon specializes in the cleanup and restoration of residential and commercial property after a fire, smoke or water damage event. Our staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. From initial and ongoing training at SERVPRO’s corporate training facility to regular IICRC-industry certification, rest assured our staff is equipped with the knowledge to restore your property.