Archived Water Damage Blog Posts
Sewage Is Nothing to Mess With, Let SERVPRO of East Erie County Help You
4/12/2022 (Permalink)
This older home in Lancaster, NY had a sewer back up. The floor tested positive for asbestos. SERVPRO was able to remediate once the floor was removed
Let us talk about sewage, and the hazards involve. It is one of the most hazardous jobs SERVPRO of East Erie County deals with. A sewer back up can occur through a floor drain, sink, toilet, or a shower. One of the most common reasons for a sewer back up is caused by a clog but can also occur during a heavy rainstorm or a rapid snow melt. The abundance of water can cause street debris to end up in the town’s sanitary sewers. Sometimes there is so much rain it can overload the main sewer systems. When this happens, it is too much for it to handle and the excess wastewater can back up into your home. It backs up through the basement floor drain filling your basement with raw sewage, feminine products, food, and bacteria.
The wastewater contains many water-borne diseases and must be cleaned and disinfected asap. Some of the pathogens in sewage are Salmonella, E. Coli, Streptococcus, mycobacterium and more. SERVPRO of East Erie County and their highly trained professionals are always ready to help.
Content And Furniture Hauling After a Water Damage in Lancaster, NY
4/12/2022 (Permalink)
This home in Lancaster had a water damage caused by a sump pump failure. SERVPRO of East Erie County responded to mitigate.
When the sump pump fails and fills your basement with water, your personal belongings will be floating, tipped over and damaged. We use our basements for storage and 60 % of homeowners have a beautiful, finished recreation room.
We store our holiday decorations, clothing, old memorabilia, and important paperwork. Then we have a beautiful, finished room with a pool table, furniture, games, and a finished bar for entertaining.
When disaster strikes it is overwhelming. It is a challenge and time consuming to most homeowners. It is difficult to say the list going through the saturated items to see what is damaged and what can be saved. SERVPRO technicians can help during this process. SERVPRO of East Erie County will haul out the damage items, clean the items that are going to be saved and proceed with the remaining cleaning throughout the basement. SERVPRO can have a dumpster placed at the home or haul the debris offsite. If you have a water damage, SERVPRO technicians will be there to help.
Family operated since 1972.
SERVPRO Is Just A Phone Call Away
4/8/2022 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of East Erie County 24/7/365
We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling overwhelmed, stressed, helpless and have no idea of what to do. Who knew a toilet line break could cause so much damage? You need a professional to guide you through this arduous time. SERVPRO of East Erie County has the specific water damage training and knowledge to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration.
When you call, the receptionist will ask several questions regarding your emergency. These questions will help us plan the action needed. It will help with what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.
Our SERVPRO Representative will ask:
- Your name and contact information
- Your insurance information (if applicable)
- The street address of the water-damaged home or business
- When did the flooding or water damage occur?
- What caused the water damage (if known)?
- Is there electricity available (on-site)?
- How many rooms and floors are affected?
SERVPRO of East Erie County 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. Family operated since 1972.
Summer Basement Flooding
8/3/2021 (Permalink)
Heavy mud and heavy rain in Lancaster, NY caused a sump pump to overwork resulting in damage requiring replacement.
During this summer we have already experienced some heavy rains causing flooding to basements and homes. Here are some helpful tips to get you through any issues you may have. First make sure if flooding occurs you check all possible causes and have the source fixed. For example, check to make sure your sump pump is working and is operational. Sump pump failures can cause plenty of damage if not watched during heavy rains. You most likely will need a plumber to replace the sump pump after flooding. Make sure all drains are clear of debris and dirt, including floor drains, sinks and showers. If your drains back up it can cause a sewage mess in your basement which can be a major cleanup requiring specialized cleaning and deodorizing. You always want to make sure any storage items you have in the basement are at least 6 feet from any drains or off the ground. If you are experiencing any flooding this season, please give us here at SERVPRO of East Erie County. We can make it "Like it never even happened."
Ice Dam
3/14/2021 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of East Erie County can help with you with ice dam leak damage. Don’t wait for mold to grow.
Ice damming is a common occurrence in Lancaster, NY during the winter months. An ice dam is the buildup of ice on the slopes and eaves of a roof from snow melting. As the temperature changes, the snow melts and the ice forms and builds up. The ice prevents water from properly draining off the roof. The water will be forced to leak into the home causing water damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, and flooring. Moisture can lead to mildew and mold. It is essential to act! The first step is to remove the source of the problem. There are contractors that will help with the removal of ice by applying hot water to the gutter areas and apply a snow melt such as calcium chloride. There are many risks when performing outside work in the winter, so hire a professional and avoid injury or damage to your roof. It may take a couple days for the ice to melt. SERVPRO of East Erie County can still assist by opening the wall cavity and can remove the wet insulation and apply an antimicrobial. Once the ice is completely melted, SERVPRO will return to set up professional drying equipment to ensure a quick dry out of the wet areas. Do not perform any repairs until it is completely dry. If you need assistance, please call SERVPRO of East Erie County at 716-656-7131 Serving Western NY since 1972. Family operated and trusted by all.
Don't Wait Until Mold Forms, Call SERVPRO for Your Water Damage
3/10/2021 (Permalink)
Mold growing on a basement wall near the sump sump caused by a water damage
Water Damage Needs SERVPRO Attention
Water is nothing to mess with when it is in your home causing damage. You might experience a water damage in your home from a sump pump failure, pipe break, toilet overflow, sewage back up, an ice maker leak or a roof leak. It is very important to act! Many homeowners try to tackle the project themselves and in due time mold forms. Mold brings on costly repairs and more damage than the water. Mold is a Saprophyte. It lives on dead or decaying matters. It causes odors, rot, and lowers the value of your home. SERVPRO has 24/7 service and with our quick action of removing the water and setting up drying equipment, we can eliminate potential mold growth if caught right away. SERVPRO franchise professionals specialize in water damage restoration, the cornerstone of our business. They have extensive water damage restoration training with an emphasis on monitoring and documenting the drying process until completion. Call SERVPRO of East Erie County at 716-656-7131
Familiarizing Yourself With the 3 Classifications of Floodwaters | SERVPRO® of East Erie County
3/4/2021 (Permalink)
Classes of water damage.
Not all water is created equal when it comes to water damage as there are three classifications for it: clean, gray and black. By gaining a better understanding of the different types of water, you will understand how to better handle a water damage situation.
You will always have a cleanup and restoration process to go through no matter what type of water has caused damage. However, before cleanup can begin, the most important aspect is removing all of the moisture and damp items quickly, so as not to enable mold to flourish in an ideal environment.
The Least Dangerous: Clean Water
Obviously, much like its name states, this water is considered “clean” and should not be the type to pose an immediate threat to your health. This water is free of contaminants and can come from:
- Broken water lines
- Malfunctioning appliances
- Toilet holding tanks
- Snow melt and rainwater
This type of water damage is the easiest type of water damage to deal with, as there will be fewer microbes living in the water, but it can become gray water after 48 hours and after contact with the surfaces of a building, moving it up to category two.
Middle of the Road Danger: Gray Water
Gray water is where water damage cleanup and restoration can become a bit more tricky. It may be water that could pose a health risk, due to it containing chemical or biological contamination. The slight contamination involved with gray water means that it would need to be thoroughly treated before being safe to consume.
Gray water is water that comes from dishwashers, aquariums, showers, etc. and, as always, the 48-hour exposure time applies here as well, with gray water turning into black water if not treated.
The Most Dangerous: Black Water
Black water is the most dangerous of the three classifications and is considered to be highly contaminated with harmful chemicals and biological matter. This would include floodwaters containing soil and all sewage waters.
Sewage is contaminated with microbes, including bacteria, protozoans, molds, fungi and more—many of which are harmful to humans and create a health hazard.
Diseases that can be transmitted by black water are:
- Cholera
- Typhoid
- Hepatitis
- Gastroenteritis-type illnesses
Remember, whenever there is a flood, all waters should be assumed to be black water since it will pick up contaminants along its path.
These three classifications of floodwater are recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Remediation Certification (IICRC), which is an organization that certifies and sets the standards for the cleaning and restoration industry. Our technicians have all studied IICRC standards, have learned the best practices in water restoration and are available to help determine the steps to take to get your home back to normal.
It doesn’t matter what type of water has caused damage to your home or business, SERVPRO® of East Erie County is here to help get the situation under control and make it "Like it never even happened." Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you need emergency cleanup and restoration services!
What to do if your basement floods
6/30/2020 (Permalink)
Rain falling into a puddle in the street, heavy rains can cause plenty of issues in a basement.
With all this rain and wind lately it's more than possible for you to experience flooding due to the weather. Here are some helpful tips to get you through any issues you may have. First make sure if flooding occurs you check possible causes before calling anyone. For example check to make sure your sump pump is functioning correctly and is operational. Sump pump failures can cause plenty of damage if not watched during heavy rains. Make sure all drains are clear or debris and dirt. If your drains back up it can cause a nasty sewage mess in your basement which can be a hassle for you to have cleaned and deodorized. You always want to make sure any items you have are at least 3 feet from any drains in the basement. If you do experience any flooding this season and just want some advice or help cleaning, please give us here at SERVPRO a call. We can make it "Like it never even happened."
The Importance of Speedy Water Removal
3/9/2020 (Permalink)
SERVPRO will act quick to remove pooling water from your home!
It’s very important for a number of reasons to remove water from your home in a water loss situation. Pooling water will begin to damage your floors and walls. These pools are also the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to flourish and colonize. When you call SERVPRO, we will work speedily to remove the water and restore your home to its preloss state. Our team of highly trained technicians have the proper training and tools to quickly and thoroughly remove water, drying deeper to prevent further damage. Whether the damage is to wood, carpet, tile, or concrete, SERVPRO has the tools to dig deep and restore. Our team will use moisture detecting equipment to ensure that every surface is dry and free of water damage. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”
How Often Should I Clean my Gutters?
3/4/2020 (Permalink)
It is recommended to clean your gutters at least twice a year
Clogged gutters can be a major source of water damage. If the water doesn’t flow properly, it will seep through your roof and also down through your foundation causing a flooded basement potentially. It’s recommended you clean your gutters at least twice a year. Dry leaves, branches, and other material buildup in your gutters as the seasons pass. You can tell your gutters are clogged when water spills over the edge of the gutter and water doesn’t flow out of the downspouts. Remove all accumulated debris from the gutters and clean them to ensure that water flows correctly. This will help you prevent potential water damage to your home and avoid replacement costs. If water damage does occur, call SERVPRO of East Erie County at 716-656-7131.
Why Restoration for Water Damage?
1/29/2020 (Permalink)
Restoration saves you money, time, and stress!
As soon as water damage hits your home, it’s hard to not start thinking about restoring your belongings and property. SERVPRO prioritizes restoration over replacement, and we’re here to help you. Our dedicated team will work to restore any damaged belongings or areas of your home to its previous condition. We take time and care to make sure that you are satisfied with the condition of your home and belongings. Restoration saves you time and money! Replacement can be expensive and time consuming. So don’t replace those items with sentimental value, get them restores by our team who will work tirelessly to restore your items from water damage.
If your home or business requires water damage restoration services, contact SERVPRO of East Erie County at 716-656-7131
Weather warm up coming for Erie County
12/23/2019 (Permalink)
A lawn in Erie County caused flooding in a basement SERVPRO was on the job.
With the warm weather back for the next week or so we can expect lots of flooding throughout Erie County. Once this snow melts a lot of us are going to see flooded basements, backyards, backed up drains and just water messes all around. Let SERVPRO help with any flooding or water issues. With over 47 years in business water restoration is our specialty. whether it be a flooded basement, backed up sewage drain, or just a general cleaning, give SERVPRO a call. Buffalo weather is so unpredictable, SERVPRO is always there to count on. SERVPRO carries industrial drying Equipment and can dry out any flooding caused due to melting snow or backed up drains. While the weather is warm why not get your furnace ducts cleaned. We offer competitive pricing on all on residential and commercial duct cleaning. So give us a call and let SERVPRO make it like it never happens.
Do you know what the IICRC is?
12/11/2019 (Permalink)
An IICRC firm means your getting the best
What is the IICRC? “The IICRC is the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification, a non-profit organization for the cleaning and restoration industry. Since starting in 1972, the IICRC has evolved into a global organization with more than 60,000 active Certified Technicians and more than 6,000 Certified Firms around the world.”
The IICRC establishes guidelines on the proper way to approach a loss situation. It sets standards and certificates for cleaning, water damage, fire/soot cleaning, mold remediation, odor removal, carpet cleaning, trauma/biohazard situations and more. Not only our technicians are certified but SERVPRO is an IICRC certified firm.
SERVPRO of East Erie County is a leading provider of restoration services. The IICRC guidelines assure you receive the best restoration service in the industry when you call us at 716-656-7131
In this Business Timing Is Everything!
6/27/2019 (Permalink)
SERVPRO of East Erie County serving Depew, Lancaster, West Seneca, Cheektowaga, Alden and surrounding areas.
Flooding and water emergencies do not wait for regular business hours and neither do we.
Our IICRC certified technicians at SERVPRO of East Erie County is ready to provid emergency cleaning and restoration services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — including all holidays! We are there when disaster strikes!
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 arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and the cleaning and restoration costs.
SERVPRO of East Erie County is operated by the Sullivan family since 1972. Our staff is ready to help!
Need Emergency Service? Call Us 24/7 at (716) 656-7131
Water Damage Leads to Mold
10/21/2018 (Permalink)
Water Damage Leads to Mold. Calling SERVPRO was the right decision for this home owner.
The sewer backed up causing a large amount of feces to cover the basement floor. The loss went unnoticed for a few days and developed into a mold remediation project. We had to completely remove all walls, ceilings and content from the basement followed by specialized cleaning.
If You See Signs of Mold, Call Us Today – (716) 656-7131
When water intrudes into your property, mold growth can start in as little as 48 hours. Consider the following mold facts:
- Mold is present almost everywhere, indoors and outdoors.
- Mold spores are microscopic, float along in the air, and may enter your home through windows, doors, or AC/heating systems or even hitch a ride indoors on your clothing or a pet.
- Mold spores thrive on moisture. Mold spores can quickly grow into colonies when exposed to water. These colonies may produce allergens and irritants.
- Before mold remediation can begin, any sources of water or moisture must be addressed. Otherwise the mold may return.
- Mold often produces a strong, musty odor, and that odor can lead you to possible mold problem areas.
- Even higher-than-normal indoor humidity can support mold growth. Keep indoor humidity below 45 percent.
DRYBOOK DOCUMENTATION ON WATER DAMAGES
10/14/2018 (Permalink)
DRYBOOK DOCUMENTATION ON WATER DAMAGES
SERVPRO of East Erie County technicians document the entire drying process.
DRYBOOK™ DOCUMENTATION SERVPRO of East Erie County professionals use the latest technology to help ensure your property is dried quickly and efficiently. DryBook™ is a proprietary tool that:
- Manages industry drying requirements.
- Provides real-time documentation on the drying process.
- Validates that services are executed to standard.
- Reports to all stakeholders involved.
- Allows real-time updates through DryBook™ Mobile integration.
This improves results and restores your property at a faster rate, getting you back in your home or business sooner. The bottom line? SERVPRO of East Erie County has the training and equipment to help make it “Like it never even happened.”
Residential and Commercial Restoration and Cleaning Services
As a trusted leader in the restoration industry, SERVPRO of East Erie County provides 24-hour emergency service and is dedicated to being faster to any size disaster. We can respond immediately to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration or cleaning needs.
Have Questions? Call Us Today – (716) 656-7131
Ice Dam
2/21/2018 (Permalink)
Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (716) 656-7131
SERVPRO of East Erie County
An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms on a roof and prevents melting snow/ice (water) from draining off the roof. With nowhere else to go, and with freezing at night and melting during the day, the water will eventually back up behind the dam and ultimately leak into the home causing severe damage to roof shingles, ceilings, walls, insulation, and more. If damage from an ice dam goes unnoticed in an attic, there is also a potential for mold/mildew to form. If you suspect that your home or business has a mold problem, SERVPRO Franchise Professionals can inspect and assess your property. If mold is found, they have the training, equipment, and expertise to handle the situation.
Have Water or Flood Damage?
Call Us Today – (716) 656-7131
SERVPRO of East Erie County
24/7 Emergency Service