Recent Water Damage Posts
The Connecticut River Chronicles: Understanding the Impact of Flooding
2/29/2024 (Permalink)
The local area experiences flooding when water levels increase at the Connecticut River. SERVPRO can help!
Connecticut's picturesque landscapes are intertwined with the majestic Connecticut River. The Connecticut River meanders through the heart of the state, serving as a source of scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and economic vitality. However, this natural wonder also presents challenges, particularly in the form of flooding. Its proximity to urban centers and low-lying areas along with its extensive watershed. renders local communities susceptible to flooding, especially during periods of heavy rainfall, snowmelt, ice jams, or storm surges.
The consequences of flooding near the Connecticut River in Connecticut are significant and far-reaching. Homes, businesses, and infrastructure bear the brunt of inundation, leading to property damage, economic losses, and disruption of daily life. When floodwaters rise, they leave behind a trail of devastation that can be overwhelming. Homes and businesses are left waterlogged, belongings damaged, and lives uprooted. In the aftermath of such disasters, the role of restoration specialists becomes paramount.
SERVPRO of The Windsors responds to flooding around the clock. We understand the urgency of the situation and pride ourselves on rapid emergency response capabilities. In many cases, flood damage extends beyond surface-level issues, requiring extensive restoration and reconstruction efforts. SERVPRO® offers a full spectrum of services, from repairing structural damage to restoring personal belongings.
SERVPRO stands ready to help communities along the Connecticut River and beyond rebuild and restore what matters most: their homes, their businesses, and their lives. If you experience water damage caused by flooding or anything else. Call us today, our team will work tirelessly to restore your property. While awaiting our crew, check out these emergency water damage response tips.
Commercial Water Damage Emergency Response!
2/29/2024 (Permalink)
Following water damage mitigation, SERVPRO was able to check out the hangars and aircrafts!
When water damage threatens the operational heart of a major airline like American Airlines, every second counts. When unforeseeable water damage struck, threatening to disrupt operations at Bradley Airport, the airline knew to trust industry leaders.
American Airlines faced an unexpected hurdle when water damage jeopardized key facilities. Such incidents not only pose logistical challenges but also carry the potential to tarnish the airline's reputation for reliability and efficiency. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, American Airlines turned to SERVPRO of The Windsors, a trusted name in disaster recovery, to address the issue with speed and expertise.
Upon receiving the distress call, SERVPRO of The Windsors sprang into action. Time being of the essence, our team of experts wasted no time in mobilizing our resources and responding to the property. The first order of business was to conduct a thorough assessment of the water damage. With a keen eye for detail and extensive experience in disaster recovery, we surveyed the affected areas, identifying the extent of the damage and formulated a strategic plan for mitigation and restoration. Immediately after assessing the damage, we got to work extracting water and beginning an aggressive drying plan.
By entrusting SERVPRO® with the task of water damage recovery, American Airlines safeguarded not only its property but also its reputation for operational excellence. SERVPRO’s swift response and meticulous approach ensured that disruptions were minimized, allowing American Airlines to maintain its commitment to punctuality and customer satisfaction. If your business needs an emergency response following a disaster, turn to SERVPRO for all of your mitigation needs.
Sump Pump Maintenance
6/10/2022 (Permalink)
This is an example of a standard sump pump. Practice good maintenance to prevent water damage.
One of the leading causes of water losses is sump pump failure! Here’s some helpful tips for sump pump maintenance to help avoid water damage! Perform the following steps quarterly to inspect, test, and maintain your sump pump.
- Disconnect the sump pump power cord from the outlet.
- Remove any water in the sump basin and clear away any debris near the pump inlet screen.
- Plug the power cords back into the outlet.
- Pour a fie gallon bucket of water into the sump basin and check to see if the pump powers itself on and off properly.
- Inspect outside to ensure the water is being properly released to the appropriate location.
If against your efforts the sump pump fails, SERVPRO can help with the water damage and refer you to a professional as needed. We are available 24/7 if you need us, give us a call.
Bathroom Areas Prone to Water Damage
5/9/2022 (Permalink)
Monitor these areas in your bathrooms for signs of water damage.
While water damage can come from many sources, there are causes that come up more frequently. For example, in bathrooms the three most common causes of water damage we respond to are caused by broken and damaged shower tiles, leaking or unsecured toilet seals, and damaged grout. Homeowner’s can lessen their odds of suffering from water damage by inspecting the bathroom for the common culprits of water damage. When cleaning your bathroom or on a monthly consider inspecting your bathroom for common causes of water damage. If you notice damaged shower tiles or grout or and you are unsure if there has been any water intrusion, our team can perform an assessment to include moisture reading to locate any water not visible. Call us any time.
Can It Be Saved? Determining Salvageable vs Non-salvageable.
3/29/2021 (Permalink)
There are many belongings damaged in this picture, can you identify the salvageable from the unsalvageable?
When people suffer water damage on their properties, often there is also damage to personal belongings. So how do determine what items are salvageable and what needs to be discarded? Well, there are several factors to consider. First, we have to consider the source of the water and it’s cleanliness. For instance, if you have a water loss caused by a sink overflow it will not adversely affect belongings as much as say a sump pump loss. A sump pump loss with sewage involved would warrant discarding and replacement of all damaged items, while the sink flow scenario would likely just require some content cleaning.
After the cleanliness of the water, next we must consider the amount of water. We’ve seen homes with mere droplets and have serviced basements with water 7 feet high, literally. Also, how long has the water gone unaddressed? Water that has lingered for an extended period can cause health effects.
The type of material is another significant factor. Items made from metal and plastic are easily salvaged. Oppositely, drywall, carpet, and gypsum board are porous and therefore easily permeated. Permeable materials suffer the most damage and may crumble, retain odor, or lose their durability.
Additionally, we also consider the homeowner’s preference. There are times where an item may be beyond salvaging and dysfunctional but irreplaceable to the homeowner, in that case, we exhaust our efforts to improve the condition as well as possible.
This list is a brief look into some of the factors to consider when determining whether belongings can be salvaged after water damage. If you suffer from water damage and need assistance, we can help. SERVPRO of The Windsors routinely works with property owners to compile a thorough inventory and picture documentation to ensure compensation from your insurance provider. Call us today!
Water Damage Timeline
3/29/2021 (Permalink)
Time is of the essence! Do not delay remediation!
Oh no! A pipe broke in your home! You think it happened overnight and you got your wet and dry vac out right away. You think the damage is minimal. Is it? Let’s breakdown the water damage timeline.
Immediately water is released and begins to saturate your property and personal belongings.
Within minutes water is absorbed into walls, floors, upholstery, and belongings. Electrical sockets are compromised.
After an hour or two, the drywall has swelled, metal surfaces begin to tarnish, furniture beings to warp.
After 48 hours mold growth begins, foul odor forms, metal rusts and furniture warping is extensive.
After one-week, structural safety is compromised, and the water is now biohazard-contaminated and poses health risks.
The effects of water damage can escalate quickly if not promptly and properly remediated. Be sure to include your favorite remediator in your list of emergency contacts to expedite the remediation process!
Frozen Pipe Response Plan
12/23/2020 (Permalink)
Follow these quick and easy steps to address frozen pipes!
While we all hope to avoid frozen pipes in the winter. The reality is through all efforts pipes are going to freeze and water damage will occur as result. It is an unfortunate reality. If you should meet this fate it is better to be equipped with a response plan. So here are four quick and easy tips of action to perform if your pipes have ALREADY frozen over.
First, locate the water main shut-off valve and turn off the water
Second, open the faucet so thawing water can flow freely & relieve pressure
Third, warm the pipes w/ a space heater or hairdryer
Fourth, close faucets and turn on water
Fifth, check for leaks
After taking these initial steps you find leaks causing water damage follow the next two steps:
Protect your belongings
Call SERVPRO of The Windsors! We will take it from here.
FAQ’s-Water Damage
12/18/2020 (Permalink)
FAQ-Water Damage!
Knowledge is power, understanding is priceless. So we are here to share the top three most frequently asked questions and provide the answers! Keep reading!
Can you make the repair?
-No, we do not fix any toilet, plumbing, ice dam or similar issues. We come in to provide remediation after repairs have been made but we can make a referral to reputable service providers based on your needs.
Will my insurance cover this?
Most water damage is covered by insurance-toilet, and tub overflows, pipe breaks, ice damming etc. Condo insurance policies have greater limitations and losses involving sump pumps tend to need an additional endorsement on your policy for coverage. If you have questions regarding your insurance coverage, call us to discuss your specific loss, with decades of experience our office understands the ins and outs of insurance coverages.
How much will remediation cost?
Pricing varies based on many factors-square footage involved, cause of the damage, building materials involved etc. No two claims are alike so it’s impossible to give real costs. However, we bill use insurance mandated software and work with the property owner and insurance providers to receive approval before any costs are incurred.
Gutter Maintenance Prevents Water Damage!
12/2/2020 (Permalink)
Leaves and debris can cause a lot of havoc if not removed!
Here is New England the foliage is a fall highlight. While the foliage is beautiful once it falls there’s work to be done! Property owners must remove all leaves and other debris from gutters to avoid water damage. Yes, a common culprit of water damage is dirty or faulty gutters. Gutter systems control the flow of rainwater from roofs therefore they have the potential to cause major damage to roofs and walls. As always, we are here to help. Here are a few easy steps to maintain/clean your gutters.
- Begin by preparing your tools, ladder, and PPE
- Remove large debris by hand
- Use a gutter scoop tool to remove smaller debris
- Flush out the gutters with a garden hose and nozzle (start away from and work towards the downspout)
- Clean the downspouts
Now that the gutters are clean, inspect them for leaks, cracks, and other damage to avoid future problems. Flush the gutters again to ensure correct slope and drainage.
Safety tips-
*Wait for a dry, low wind day (in addition to the safety measure, wet leaves are a lot harder to move)
*Practice ladder safety
*Wear safety goggles to keep debris from disturbing your eyes
*Wear thick quality gloves for better grip and to avoid hurting your hands
Water Damage Quiz! How Much Do You know?!
11/25/2020 (Permalink)
Trivia time!
How much do you know about water damage and prevention? Water is the most common losses we see in our industry and it’s a costly one! What to do if you find yourself in a situation where your property faces water damage? Take this quick water damage quiz, the answers are below.
What is the most common cause of residential water damage?
- Children
- Plumbing Issues
- Living by a body of water
What is the most common season for pipes bursting?
What is one of the best ways to prevent your pipes from freezing?
- Keep the heat off
- Keep all the doors in your home closed
- Allow the faucet to drip
- Remove insulation
On average how much does water damage cost the insurance industry per year?
- $12 Million
- $900,000
- $2.5 Billion
Who’s the best person to assist your remediation?
- Your Parents
- My neighbor
- SERVPRO of The Windsors
Answer Key
- Plumbing Issues
- $2,700
- Winter
- Allow Faucet to drip
- $2.5 billion
- SERVPRO of The Windsors
Emergency Water Damage Tips
12/23/2019 (Permalink)
Turn off the water source as soon as possible!
Having any loss is devastating and responding when you’re in a state of panic is not always easy. When you have a water loss there are some steps you can take to prevent further and secondary damage. Here are some emergency water damage tips that the experts here at SERVPRO of The Windsors have gathered that can help you take action immediately after a water loss while you wait for our emergency response team to arrive:
- Shut off the water source if possible.
- Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
- Remove and prop up wet upholstery cushions for even drying.
- Place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs.
- Hang furs and leather goods separately at room temperature.
- Remove Oriental or other colored rugs from wet carpeting.
- Do not use a regular vacuum to remove water.
- Do not turn on ceiling fixtures if the ceiling is wet and keep out of areas where ceilings are sagging from retained water.
- Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpeting.
- Most importantly, call SERVPRO of The Windsors at 860-627-0763.
The Cold Weather is Upon Us!
11/7/2019 (Permalink)
'Tis the Season for frozen pipes!
Did you know more water damages are caused by broken pipes, plumbing, or appliance malfunctions, than from weather-related issues? A frozen water line can cause your pipes to burst and cause extreme damage to your home. Be sure to get ahead of the winter season by prepping your home. Here are some tips and tricks to preventing your pipes from freezing and/or bursting.
- 1. Keep your home at a reasonably heated temperature.
- 2. Place fans around your home to help circulate warm air into the cooler areas in the home.
- 3. On colder days consider keeping doors on and cabinetry or closets that contain exposed pipes open so that the warm air can reach them.
- 4. Be sure to disconnect your garden hose, I don’t think you’ll be needing it any time soon.
- 5. In places where water flow is reduced turn the faucet on & apply heat to the vulnerable pipes using a hairdryer. As the pipe heats up any ice will melt and in turn, the water flow will increase.
Avoid freezing pipes…. Lastly, if this does happen to you do not wait! Call SERVPRO of The Windsors to come out and take care of your remediation needs!
A Rainy Halloween
10/31/2019 (Permalink)
Happy Halloween from SERVPRO of The Windsors!
Happy Halloween! It’s a rainy Halloween this year. Sadly, many towns are postponing trick or treating. It is disappointing news, don’t shoot the messenger! We just want to take a moment to remind our Connecticut and Massachusetts customers that even though it is raining, even though it is a holiday, and even though it’s a pleasantly warm day, we are around if you need us!
We are experiencing heavy rains today, should that cause you any headaches in the form of water damage, give us a call! Groundwater, roof leaks, water intrusions through unidentified sources; whatever the situation, we can help.
If you do not need us today, we are here tomorrow too. We hope everyone has a safe and spooktacular Halloween! We are looking forward to some chocolate goodies ourselves!
Water Damage Dictionary!
10/14/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO understands water damage!
Unless you’ve experienced water damage or work in the industry some of the jargon may be unfamiliar to you. Here is your introduction to water damage a la a water damage dictionary.
Water Damage Dictionary:
Air movers: – Air movers are used to move the air, these machines rotate/shift the air so the dehumidifiers can capture water vapor
Dehumidifier/dehumidification – Dehumidification is the process of removing water vapor from the air, dehumidifiers are the machines that extract the vapor
Drying goals: –The percentage or point a material needs to reach before it is determined to be dry.
Drying time: -The number of days it takes for all materials to reach their goal. Drying is not complete until all affected materials have been returned to their pre-determined drying goals.
Evaporation: – The process of changing water from a liquid to a vapor.
Humidity ratio: – The amount of water vapor that a volume of air contains by weight. Humidity
ratio is directly related to vapor pressure.
Moisture content: – The measurement of the amount of moisture contained in a material,
expressed as a percentage.
Moisture level: – The measurement of the amount of moisture contained in a material on a
relative scale.
Mold – A fungi, can be dangerous, grow as a result of moisture
Monitoring – Water projects should be monitored at least once every other day. Daily readings should
include all applicable air, equipment, and HVAC output readings.
Open drying system: – This method uses outside air to reduce the indoor humidity.
Permeance: – Permeance is the ability of water vapor to pass through a material.
Relative humidity: – Ratio of moisture in the air as a percentage of the total moisture-holding capacity.
Safety issues: – Things that can be potentially dangerous or harmful to our customers and employees.
Sanitizer – A product designed to significantly reduce, however, not eliminate, microorganisms.
Sterilizer – An antimicrobial agent which is designed to kill all forms of viruses, bacteria, and fungi.
Water Classifications!
10/14/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO is an IICRC ceritified remediator!
Psychology has the DSM V, Christians have the Bible, remediators have the IICRC’s S500! The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is a certification and standard-setting organization for the inspection, cleaning, and restoration industries. The S500 is the standard and reference guide for professional water damage restoration. The S500 is our rule book!
The first determination to be made when assessing water damage is the Category and Classification. In this blog, we are going to talk about water classifications. Click here to learn about water categories...https://www.SERVPROthewindsors.com/blog/post/169424/water-damage-restoration/3-different-water-loss-categories
The IICRC defined water classifications as wet an area, room, or structure is. Rules of water category classifications are such:
Class 1- Scenarios with the least amount of water intrusion. Minimal water damage, high probability of salvageability of wet materials. Porous materials are less than 5% of the combined floor, wall, and ceiling surface area and where low evaporation materials have absorbed minimal moisture.
Common course of action, in-place, drying typically 3 days
Class 2- Represents cases with a significant amount of water intrusion. Porous materials represent 5% -40% of the combined floor, wall, and ceiling surface area in the space and low evaporation materials have absorbed minimal moisture.
Common course of action-removal of unsalvageable materials, drying typically 3-5 days
Class 3- Greatest amount of water intrusion. Porous materials represent over 40% of the combined floor, wall, and ceiling surface areas, low evaporation materials have absorbed significant moisture.
Common course of action-removal of unsalvageable materials, drying typically 4-6 days
Class 4- Water damage that involves a significant amount of water intrusion and a specialty remediation process, low evaporation materials have significant moisture.
Common course of action- Remediation plan will require specialty drying equipment, extensive demolition, and/or extended drying
Types of Dehumidifiers.
10/14/2019 (Permalink)
This LGR dehu is great for its small size and manageability!
Dehumidifiers are the single most important piece of equipment in our arsenal. However, as with all things, there are different types for different situations…lets dissect….
The 4 most common dehumidifiers are desiccants, refrigerants dehumidifiers, low-grain refrigerant dehumidifiers, and conventional refrigerant dehumidifiers.
Desiccant dehumidifiers – This kind of dehumidifier creates the lowest humidity ratio, which means that it also creates the lowest vapor pressure.
Refrigerant dehumidifier – This kind of dehumidifier is the most energy-efficient type of dehumidifier. It performs efficiently down to 70°F. It is usually the most efficient dehumidifier to use in warm, wet environments.
LGR -Low-grain refrigerant dehumidifier – This kind of dehumidifier removes water vapor from the air using a process called condensation. LGR dehumidifiers continue to remove a significant amount of water vapor below 40 grains per pound.
Conventional refrigerant dehumidifier – This kind of dehumidifier loses efficiency as the air dries below 55 grains per pound. It removes water vapor from the air using a process called condensation
When considering a dehumidifier for your personal use in your residential property, the best option is a refrigerant dehumidifier. Consider your home size to further narrow down your selections. We hope this information has been beneficial, as we are always #heretohelp!
3 Different Water Loss Categories
9/11/2019 (Permalink)
Water Damage Categories & Examples of Their Sources
Water has many benefits such as keeping us clean, hydrated, and mother nature relies on water for the earth to grow the fruits and vegetables we consume. Everyone knows the benefits we reap from water, but how often do we stop and think about the different impact it can have in unique situations? In the mitigation field, we see those impacts daily, a majority of the losses we respond to are in fact caused by what? Water. A simple leak caused by a dishwasher or overflowing bathtub may seem so simple, but if it isn't addressed promptly and correctly can quickly become a larger nuisance and can even be harmful to you and your loved ones. Below are the different 3 Categories of water and some of their different sources.
Category 1:
Cat 1 also known as clean water, originates from a sanitary source and doesn't pose a substantial risk.
Examples: ice, snow, or rainwater. A broken water line, an overflowing sink, or bathtub.
Category 2:
Cat 2 water also known as grey water is water that is contaminated and poses a potential risk of causing harm to humans if contact is made
Examples: washer machines & dishwashers overflows, toilets that contain only liquid contaminates, & category 1 water that was not promptly been removed can be reclassified as category 2 water.
Category 3:
Cat 3 water also known as black water is grossly unsanitary and can be extremely harmful if contact is made.
Examples: Toilet backflows that originate from beyond the toilet trap, sump pump failures, flooding of rivers, & mold-contaminated water
Commercial Water Damage at LL Bean
12/21/2016 (Permalink)
Our team on site at LL Bean for water remediation.
Imagine this, you’re a retailer, it is December 20th, 5 days to Christmas and you have a pipe break which released a large amount of water through your building, what do you do? You call SERVPRO of course! This scenario is the exact nightmare our customer at LL Bean experienced. During peak holiday shopping hours LL Bean at Evergreen Walk in South Windsor, CT had to close their store and remediate the water damage! LL Bean called us here at SERVPRO of The Windsors and we immediately responded. We overstaffed the job to accelerate the remediation process! Our crew worked vigorously to get the store back up and running as quickly as possible. The likable staff at LL Bean was pleasantly surprised at how quickly after the loss we were able to get the doors back open! We understand how crucial it is for businesses to continue operating even after devastation and are proud to work with fellow businesses to achieve this goal!
Faster To Your Water Damage Event
11/9/2016 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of The Windsors provides 24 hour fire and water damage restoration service!
Flooding and water emergencies don’t wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of The Windsors 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 The Windsors 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 –860-627-0763
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 The Windsors
SERVPRO of The Windsors 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.
24/7 Emergency Service