Recent Water Damage Posts

Preserving Creativity: Restoration Techniques for Water-Soaked Artwork

2/7/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can be devastating for artwork, potentially causing irreversible damage to cherished pieces. However, with the right restoration techniques, it is possible to salvage water-soaked artwork and preserve its beauty. In this blog post, we will explore key restoration techniques that can help revive water-damaged artwork and safeguard its artistic and monetary value.

Assessing the Damage

Discuss the importance of thoroughly assessing the damage caused by water to artwork. Explain how water can affect different art mediums such as paintings, photographs, drawings, and prints. Provide guidance on identifying common signs of water damage, including warping, discoloration, peeling, and mold growth.

Stabilization and Drying Process

Detail the crucial steps involved in stabilizing and drying water-soaked artwork. Highlight the significance of removing the artwork from the wet environment, gently blotting excess moisture, and allowing proper air circulation to aid the drying process. Discuss the use of moisture-absorbing materials, dehumidifiers, and controlled environments to expedite the drying process while minimizing further damage.

Mold Remediation Techniques

Explain the potential growth of mold in water-damaged artwork and the importance of prompt mold remediation. Describe safe and effective ways to remove mold, such as using specialized cleaning solutions and techniques. Emphasize the significance of consulting professional conservators or restoration experts for intricate or valuable pieces with extensive mold growth.

Surface Cleaning and Restoration

Provide guidance on surface cleaning and restoration techniques tailored to different art mediums. Discuss gentle cleaning methods using appropriate solvents, brushes, and cotton swabs to remove dirt, stains, and discoloration caused by water damage. Highlight the importance of patience and caution while cleaning delicate or aged artwork.

Realigning and Repairing

Explore techniques for realigning and repairing water-damaged artwork. Discuss methods such as heat press, humidification, and flattening to correct warping, buckling, or curling. Advising readers on seeking professional assistance for complex repairs ensures that delicate artwork is handled with the necessary expertise and care.

Conservation Measures for Future Protection

Educate readers on preventive measures to safeguard artwork from future water damage. Suggest protective framing, controlled environments, and regular inspections to detect signs of moisture or mold early. Emphasize the significance of insurance coverage for artwork to provide financial protection in case of unforeseen water damage events.

Water damage to artwork can be disheartening, but employing appropriate restoration techniques can help salvage and preserve beloved pieces. By understanding the assessment, stabilization, drying, mold remediation, cleaning, realigning, and repairing processes, art enthusiasts can restore water-damaged artwork while maintaining its artistic and monetary value.

The Different Types and Causes of Water Damage

10/25/2023 (Permalink)

Large hole in a ceiling due to water damage. Water damage is an all-too-common problem that can wreak havoc on homes and properties.

Water damage is an all-too-common problem that can wreak havoc on homes and properties. Understanding the different types of water damage and their causes is crucial for identifying the source of the issue and implementing effective restoration measures. In this blog post, we'll explore the various types of water damage, their causes, and tips for prevention.

Clean Water Damage

Clean water damage refers to water damage caused by a clean water source, such as a burst pipe, leaking faucet, or rainwater infiltration. While this type of water damage may initially seem less severe, it can still cause significant damage if left unaddressed. Common causes include:

  • Plumbing Issues: Burst or leaking pipes, faulty faucets, or malfunctioning appliances.
  • Weather Conditions: Heavy rainfall, storms, or melting snow can cause water to enter through roofs, windows, or foundation cracks.

Grey Water Damage

Grey water damage occurs when water that contains contaminants, but not hazardous materials, infiltrates a property. Grey water damage can result from:

  • Malfunctioning dishwashers, washing machines, or sump pumps can lead to grey water damage.
  • Negligence or accidents that cause overflowing sinks, bathtubs, or toilets can result in grey water damage.

Black Water Damage

Black water damage is the most severe and hazardous type of water damage, often resulting from natural disasters, sewage backups, or flooding. It contains harmful bacteria, fungi, and other contaminants that pose serious health risks. Causes include:

  • Floods: Natural disasters, such as hurricanes, heavy rainfall, or river overflows, can lead to black water damage.
  • Sewer Backup: Blocked or damaged sewer lines can cause sewage to back up into homes or properties.

Prevention Tips for Water Damage

While water damage can occur unexpectedly, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk. Conduct routine checks for leaks, cracks, or signs of water damage in plumbing systems, roofs, and foundations. Maintain appliances and fixtures in good condition, repair any leaks immediately, and clean gutters regularly. Seal windows, doors, and roofs to prevent water infiltration during heavy rainfall or storms. Ensure proper grading so that water flows away from foundations, and consider installing a good drainage system.

Act Fast

If you do encounter water damage, it's crucial to act swiftly to minimize the damage and prevent further issues. Prioritize your safety and evacuate the area if necessary. Locate and shut off the source of water to stop further damage. Take photos or videos of the water damage for insurance purposes and documentation. Call a reputable water damage restoration company to assess and mitigate the damage as soon as possible.

By understanding the different types of water damage and their causes, you can take proactive steps to prevent and mitigate water damage in your home or property. Remember to stay vigilant, address potential issues promptly, and always seek professional assistance when dealing with water damage. Give SERVPRO of Jacksonville Westside/ Orange Park a call for your water damage restoration emergency.

Category 3 Water Damage: Understanding the Severity and Steps for Restoration

7/18/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can wreak havoc on a property, causing significant disruptions and potential secondary damages. When it comes to water damage, it's essential to understand the different categories to accurately assess the severity and take appropriate action. In this blog, we will explore Category 3 water damage, its causes, associated risks, and the necessary steps for effective restoration.

What is Category 3 Water Damage?

Category 3 water damage, also known as "black water," refers to the most severe type of water damage. It involves water that is highly contaminated and poses significant health risks to humans and animals. Category 3 water may contain harmful pathogens, chemicals, and other contaminants that can cause serious illnesses and infections.

Common Causes of Category 3 Water Damage. Category 3 water damage typically arises from the following sources:

  • Sewage Backups: When sewer lines become blocked or overloaded, sewage can back up into homes or buildings, resulting in Category 3 water damage.
  • Flooding: Natural disasters like hurricanes, heavy rainfall, or overflowing rivers can introduce contaminated water into properties, leading to Category 3 damage.
  • Plumbing Failures: Burst pipes, failed sump pumps, or other plumbing malfunctions can introduce contaminated water into a building, elevating the damage to Category 3

Risks Associated with Category 3 Water Damage Dealing with Category 3 water damage requires caution due to the associated risks, including:

  • Structural Damage: Prolonged exposure to Category 3 water can compromise the structural integrity of a building, leading to potential collapse or unsafe conditions.
  • Mold Growth: Category 3 water damage creates a favorable environment for mold growth, which can further exacerbate health issues and damage the property.

Steps for Effective Restoration

Restoring a property affected by Category 3 water damage requires professional expertise and a systematic approach. Here are essential steps for effective restoration:

  • Ensure Safety: Prioritize safety by turning off electricity to affected areas and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and boots.
  • Remove Standing Water: Extract standing water using specialized equipment to prevent further damage and minimize the risk of contamination.
  • Dry and Dehumidify: Thoroughly dry the affected areas using industrial-grade fans, dehumidifiers, and other drying techniques to prevent mold growth and structural issues.
  • Remove Contaminated Materials: Dispose of porous materials that cannot be effectively cleaned and disinfected, such as carpeting, insulation, and damaged furniture.
  • Clean and Disinfect: Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces and belongings using appropriate antimicrobial solutions to eliminate harmful pathogens and contaminants.

Category 3 water damage requires immediate attention and professional assistance. Understanding its causes, associated risks, and the proper steps for restoration is essential for mitigating further damage and ensuring a safe environment. If you encounter Category 3 water damage, do not attempt to handle it on your own. Contact a certified water damage restoration company to promptly assess, remediate, and restore your property to its pre-damaged state.

Can drain cleaner damage pipes?

3/9/2023 (Permalink)

Drain cleaners are powerful chemicals that can be harmful to your pipes, fixtures and plumbing system. This article will explain what you need to know about drain cleaner safety.

The chemicals found in drain cleaners can damage pipes and fixtures. When you use a drain cleaner on a clogged drain, it's possible that the chemical will seep into your home's water system and cause damage to other parts of your plumbing system. If you think you might have a clog in your toilet, try using some baking soda first before resorting to chemicals.

Old Pipes

If you have old, corroded pipes, then your chances of being hurt by drain cleaner are much higher. The chemicals found in drain cleaners can damage pipes and fixtures, corrode metal and dissolve the plastic or rubber linings of pipes.

In addition to damaging your plumbing system and exposing yourself to potential health risks from exposure to these chemicals (including skin irritation), it's very possible that if enough damage is done over time by repeated use of these products then one day those parts will fail completely causing even more damage!

Drain Cleaners

Do not use drain cleaners on toilets. Toilets have moving parts that can be damaged by the cleaners. If you do use a drain cleaner, follow all directions carefully and avoid splashing or spilling it.

When using a cleaner to clear a clogged toilet, read all directions carefully before opening the bottle, including any cautions and disclaimers on the label.

Check the label for proper disposal instructions. Read the label before using a drain cleaner. Use gloves and eye protection when using a drain cleaner and also wear rubber gloves, goggles and protective clothing when using a drain cleaner.

Drain cleaners are powerful chemicals that should be used with caution. If you have old, corroded pipes then your chances of being hurt by drain cleaner are much higher. Do not use drain cleaners on toilets because these devices contain moving parts that can be damaged by the acidity of these cleaners. When using a cleaner to clear a clogged toilet, read all directions carefully before opening the bottle.

Categories of Water Damage

1/19/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can easily become a major problem if you're not careful. In fact, it could cost thousands of dollars to repair and can even lead to secondary damages, if left unattended for too long. It's important to know what each category of water damage means for your home so that you can make an informed decision about how best to handle it.

Category 1 Water Damage

Category 1 water damage is the least serious type of water damage and can be caused by a small amount of water that has leaked into your home. The most common cause of category 1 water damage is a faucet or toilet leak, but it can also result from any other small source of moisture that you don't realize until it's too late.

Category 1 Water Damage Prevention Tips:

  • Repair all leaks in sinks, toilets, and faucets immediately. If a leak seems minor at first glance (such as a dripping faucet), try tightening the valve beneath before calling for professional help.
  • Clean up spills immediately to prevent them from spreading further than they already have.

Category 2 Water Damage

Category 2 water damage is the second most common type of water damage. If your home has experienced category 2 water damage, then you've probably noticed that there are no visible signs of secondary damage in your home. This type of water damage can be caused by a leaky pipe, a burst pipe, or even just condensation on an air conditioning unit. The good news is that although it's not as serious as category 1 or 3 water damage, it still requires attention and repair work so that you don't have to deal with any more problems later on down the road.

Category 3 Water Damage

Category 3 water damage is the most serious type of water damage and occurs when your property has been inundated with flood waters or other sources of water that are contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or other harmful substances.

Category 3 water damage should be handled by professionals who have the training and expertise to safely remove contaminants from your home. It's important for you to know that if you try to clean up Category 3 water damage yourself, it could expose you to dangerous contaminants in the air or on surfaces that can cause respiratory problems or skin irritation.

Water Damage can Cause Major Problem

Water damage is not always obvious. It can be a serious issue, and it is important to know what each category means for your home. Category 1. This type of water damage damages only the surface of the material. It may appear as discoloration, but not deeper than that.

Category 2. In this case, you have some staining that goes beyond the surface level and might even affect framing or other structural components of your home depending on how long it has been since it happened.

Water damage can happen to anyone, but it is important that you know what each category means for your home. If you find yourself in a situation where water has caused damage to your property, it is essential to call a restoration company right away so they can assess the situation and determine which category of water damage has been caused by the flooding or leaky pipe in your home.

Cleaning Wet Items After Water Damage

11/1/2022 (Permalink)

clean rug Rug cleaning after water damage

Cleaning Water Damaged Items

Water damage can be a nuisance, but it doesn't have to be a disaster. You can salvage some of your belongings if you act fast and follow recommended cleaning methods. The first step is to separate wet items based on the type of water damage each item has sustained. Then, let clothing air dry prior to packing so that mold doesn't form inside closets or drawers during storage. Finally, disinfect hard surfaces (such as countertops) with a disinfectant cleaner before continuing with restoration efforts.

Dispose of any items that cannot be salvaged.

It's important to note that there are certain items that cannot be salvaged, even if they're cleaned thoroughly. If you're unsure whether an item can be saved, it's best to err on the side of caution and dispose of it. These sorts of items are usually those that are ruined beyond repair or aren't worth the effort needed to clean them well enough for re-use.

If you do decide to throw out a wet item after water damage has occurred (like clothing), make sure you don't save anything else from this damaged area! This will help prevent cross-contamination with other areas where no damage has occurred yet - as well as avoid any possibility for mold growth later down the line due to humidity problems within your house/apartment building structure itself.

Separate items based on the type of water damage they have sustained.

  • Damp or wet items that are salvageable should be cleaned and dried immediately. Take these items to a professional cleaner for cleaning and drying, if possible.
  • Moldy items (such as carpets, upholstery, textiles, and paper) can be cleaned in most cases by washing with hot water at a commercial laundry service or dry cleaner without using chemicals or bleach. Keep these items out of direct sunlight until they are completely dry.
  • Dry-clean only clothing should be taken to an experienced dry cleaner as soon as possible after it has been removed from storage containers to prevent mold growth that could result in permanent staining or discoloring of fabrics or finishes

Allow wet clothing to air dry prior to packing.

Once you've mopped up remaining water and allowed your belongings to air dry, pack your items if possible. You may need to withhold certain items until they're completely dry, like your books or linens. If you can put anything in a suitcase or box, do so immediately.

If you don't have access to a washing machine because of the damage caused by flooding or other water-related issues, place all wet clothing into bags that seal tightly. Place these bags in a closed room with good ventilation and let them sit for 24 hours before opening again (for example: closet). This will help prevent mold from forming on any remaining moisture from inside the bag that wasn't removed during initial drying efforts.

If possible, use fans in conjunction with this method for faster drying times - preferably those that oscillate so as not to cause wrinkles and creases! Remember: Air-drying is best whenever possible as it helps reduce wear-and-tear on fabrics such as jeans/jeans material pants which tend not survive too well in standard washing machines anyway (due primarily due to increase friction caused by rubbing against itself).

Clean hard, non-porous surfaces with a disinfectant cleaner.

When it comes to cleaning hard, non-porous surfaces (like floors, walls, and countertops), you'll need to use a disinfectant cleaner that's approved for use on hard, non-porous surfaces.

You can find these cleaners at your local hardware store or supermarket. Make sure the product is labeled as being effective against germs and bacteria! Most reputable brands will have third party testing results that show their products kill 99.9% of norovirus--the most common cause of foodborne illness--in 30 seconds; if they don't provide this information, find another brand of disinfectant cleaner instead. 

You can salvage some items after water damage if you take prompt action and follow recommended cleaning methods.

  • Throw it out. If you're not sure if your item can be salvaged, throw it out immediately. You should never risk the health and safety of your family by trying to save something which may have been contaminated with mold. 
  • Call a professional if possible. If you can't toss something and want an expert opinion on whether it's safe, call an experienced fire restoration company for help! They'll know how to test for mold growth or other hazards associated with wet items and give professional recommendations about how to proceed from there without risking further damage (or worse!).

Water is a powerful force, but it's not unbeatable! This post has given you the tools to clean up your water-damaged home or office. If you find yourself in this situation, take the time to assess the damage and make sure that any salvageable items are properly cleaned before they're put back into service. And don't forget: no matter what happens, always call us first! We'll be there with our expert advice and professional services so that you can start making plans for tomorrow without worrying about today's problems

Common Sewer Problems in Commercial Buildings

6/25/2022 (Permalink)

Does your building in Lakeside, FL, have any of these common sewage problems? Sewer lines contain black water, which contain dangerous toxins. Leaks or backups in blocked sewer pipes can cause costly damage to your property. You'll want to know the signs and address any issues quickly. 

Common Plumbing Problems

Blocked or cracked sewer lines
Toilet overflow
Pipe breaks or pinhole leaks

When a supply pipe breaks, the resulting flood water will seep into structural materials like wood and wallboard. It will penetrate carpeting and interior contents as well. 
Flood restoration experts can siphon the water, dry out the wet materials, and get your building back to normal. In this case, there is little concern about bacterial contamination of your building.
Blocked sewer lines or backup issues are a more serious problem because sewage water contains contaminants that can cause black mold. You want to address any flood as quickly as possible, but you should pay special attention to sewage leaks.

Telltale Signs of Sewage Leaks
A leaking sewer line can wreak havoc on your building, especially if it is not detected right away. Common signs that you have a sewer leak include:

  • Foul odor
  • Staining on floor or ceiling
  • Chronic clogs

You will often smell a sewage leak before you see it. It is never normal to smell sewage in your building. Don't ignore that odor; find its source. 
A blocked sewer line will cause toilets to back up and overflow, causing water stains on the floor around the toilet, or on the ceiling of the room on a floor below. If the line is only partially blocked, it may drain slowly, causing regular clogs. 
If your tenants complain that the toilets or tubs don't drain properly, don't wait to address the issue. Water leaks or floods can cause significant damage to your building. Even small leaks can be destructive if left unaddressed.  

Have a Clogged Pipe? Use a Snake

5/24/2022 (Permalink)

What To Do With a Clogged Pipe?

A clogged pipe can be a huge problem for any household in Jacksonville, FL. It is important to know how to snake a pipe so that you can fix the issue and not allow it to linger for too long. If the clog causes water damage, a remediation company can clean up the area and restore your home back to new.

What To Do When a Water Source Has Stopped Working
If you have a clog, the first thing to do is find the source of the blockage. If it's in your toilet, check the toilet trap for hair and other debris. If it's in your sink, look for anything that may be blocking your drain.
Drain blockages include:

  • Hair
  • Dirt
  • Food waste
  • Small objects
  • Toilet paper buildup

How To Use a Snake
First, pass the entirety of the snake down the clogged drain and start rotating the handle of the snake's drum. Continue pushing the snake slowly until you feel that you have reached the clog. If you don’t think you found the blockage, apply pressure to help get past the drain's curve.
After you get past the pipe break, there should not be any resistance until you reach the blockage. Once you get to the obstruction, spin the snake to attach it to the clog or break it up fully. If you feel like you haven't fragmented the clog, pull the snake out of your pipe. The clogged material is most likely attached to the snake and must be removed from the drain opening.
Be sure to run the faucet at full strength and let the water down the drain to ensure the clog is completely removed. If, for some reason, this process did not work, try snaking the pipe once more. Sometimes the second try will be easier, as the first try loosened the clog and will allow you to remove the obstruction.
Using a snake to open up a pipe isn't difficult. As long as you're careful during the process, you may be able to fix a blockage relatively quickly.

Common Leaks in Commercial Buildings

3/20/2022 (Permalink)

Drying equipment placed in a gym If you notice a leak in your business you need to take immediate water repair measures.

Leaks in Commercial Buildings

If you want to avoid flooding in your business, you need to know the common sources of leaks in commercial buildings. You also need to know when to call a water remediation company to have the damage repaired.

Plumbing Leaks

A broken pipe or deteriorated sewer line can be a big problem for a business. These pipes can burst in freezing conditions and deteriorate over time, causing a lot of damage. To make it worse, they are often located inside walls, and leaks go undetected until extensive damage has already occurred. Unfortunately, if a plumbing leak goes unnoticed for a long time, it can make it difficult and expensive to repair the damage. The early signs of a plumbing problem include:

  • Unstable floors or ground
  • Bulging walls
  • Mold

Ceiling Leaks

Leaks from a broken pipe in your commercial bathroom can seep through waterproofing membranes. This allows water to soak into the floor. If this occurs, a leak will appear on the ceiling below the bathroom and must be remedied quickly to prevent structural damage and mold growth. Do not postpone this type of repair because it will only lead to more damage and higher costs.

Basement Leaks

Leaks in basements can come from various sources, including damaged waterproofing solutions, poor quality concrete, a broken pipe in the wall, or grading issues. This allows water to seep into the basement and cause problems. When you experience water damage in your company's basement, you could be facing structural damage and need to remedy the situation immediately.
If you notice a leak in your business in Jacksonville, FL, you need to immediately take water repair measures. This ensures that there is no further damage to your building and the costs of repairing the situation are lower. Therefore, business owners should know what the common leaks are in commercial buildings. This allows them to identify water sources quickly and take prompt action.

How To Address a Clogged Pipe Inside Your Bathroom

1/23/2022 (Permalink)

Perhaps you have recently noticed that your toilet overflows while you take a shower. If this describes a common scenario inside your bathroom, you may have a clog inside the wastewater line. To remedy the situation and avoid additional unsanitary water seepage, you may need to perform a sewage cleaning or have your system evaluated by a licensed plumber.

Common Clog Causes

Every home in Fleming Land, FL, may be susceptible to a sewer line obstruction at some point, and a variety of conditions can contribute to clog formations:

  • Flushing paper towels, diapers and feminine hygiene products
  • Tree root infiltration
  • Grease buildup from cooking oils
  • Collapsed pipes

Regardless of the obstruction’s origins, toilet seepage may continue to plague your bathroom until the clogged pipe is properly addressed.

Clearing the Obstruction

The blockage may reside deep inside a pipe. For this reason, you may need to use a long auger snake instead of a plunger to clear the clog. To begin the sewage cleaning, you can either run the device through the toilet or remove the commode and insert the snake directly through the floor drain. As an alternative, you can locate your home’s drain cleanout plug and attempt to clear the obstruction from that point.

If you continue to experience drainage issues after employing the auger, your plumbing system may have a more serious problem, such as a collapsed line or tree root infiltration. Because these situations require professional attention, you should contact a licensed plumber who can utilize a variety of tools to thoroughly analyze your pipes and detect the problem.

Managing the Situation

Addressing water damage resulting from a toilet overflow can be a challenging and messy experience. Alleviating a clogged pipe can also be extremely difficult, depending on the nature of the obstruction. Although many homeowners may be able to accomplish an efficient sewage cleaning using an auger, particularly difficult clogs and damaged pipes require professional assistance.