How to Prevent and Fix Frozen Pipes

12/16/2024 (Permalink)

Winter can be harsh on your home’s plumbing, and frozen pipes are one of the most common issues faced during cold months. When water freezes inside pipes, it expands, potentially leading to cracks, leaks, or even bursts. Here’s a guide on how to prevent frozen pipes and what to do if you’re dealing with them.

Understanding the Risks of Frozen Pipes

When temperatures drop below freezing, water inside exposed or poorly insulated pipes can solidify. This not only blocks the flow of water but can also create immense pressure within the pipe, causing it to rupture. The repair costs for burst pipes can be significant, and water damage can disrupt your home for weeks.

Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes

1. Insulate Your Pipes Wrap pipes in foam insulation, especially those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces. Pipe insulation is affordable and easy to install.
2. Seal Drafts Identify and seal cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and walls near pipes. This helps keep cold air out and maintains a stable temperature.
3. Keep a Drip Let faucets trickle during freezing weather. A small flow of water can prevent pressure build-up and freezing.
4. Open Cabinet Doors Allow warm air to circulate pipes under sinks by keeping cabinet doors open. This is particularly helpful in kitchens and bathrooms.
5. Maintain a Consistent Temperature Avoid lowering your thermostat too much at night. Keeping your home warm reduces the risk of frozen pipes.
6. Install Heat Tape Heat tape or cables can be applied directly to pipes, providing a regulated heat source during extreme cold.

Frozen pipes can cause significant inconvenience and damage, but with proper precautions, they are entirely preventable. By following these tips and staying vigilant during the winter months, you can protect your home and avoid costly repairs. If you do encounter frozen pipes, SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County can help ease the issue and clean up excess damage.

How Minor Water Leaks Can Lead to Major Damage

12/2/2024 (Permalink)

When we think about water damage in a home, images of burst pipes or flooded basements often come to mind. However, a smaller, seemingly insignificant leak can cause just as much damage over time. Here’s a closer look at how these small leaks can escalate, why they’re often overlooked, and how to catch and fix them before they wreak havoc.

1. The Hidden Nature of Small Leaks

Small leaks are deceptive. They often drip from areas that are hard to spot: beneath sinks, behind walls, under floors, or within ceilings. These leaks rarely draw attention immediately, especially if they’re hidden out of sight. However, water’s pervasive nature means even a minor, slow drip can lead to significant issues.

2. Understanding the Damage from Slow Leaks

Water damage from a small leak may be subtle at first, but it can still compromise the structural integrity of your home and create the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. Here’s how:

Structural Weakening: Continuous moisture exposure can weaken wood, drywall, and insulation, leading to warping, rot, and even collapse over time.

Mold and Mildew Growth: Small leaks keep spaces damp, making them ideal environments for mold growth. Once mold sets in, it can spread quickly, causing damage and posing health risks.

Increasing Repair Costs: A small leak might seem like a minor issue, but the cumulative damage it causes can be far more expensive to fix than a quick repair early on.

3. Common Sources of Small Leaks

Some of the most common places small leaks occur include:

Dripping Faucets and Showerheads: These are often ignored, but over time, they can waste gallons of water and cause buildup in sinks and tubs.

Toilet Leaks: Toilets can develop small leaks where the tank meets the bowl, or around the base, causing hidden water damage to the floor.

Appliances: Dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters are often sources of small, unnoticed leaks that worsen over time.

Pipes Beneath Sinks or Inside Walls: Slow leaks in these areas can soak floors, walls, or cabinetry, leading to mold and wood damage.

4. Why Small Leaks Often Go Unnoticed

Since minor leaks rarely cause immediate issues, they’re often overlooked during routine maintenance. Additionally, small leaks may not trigger water alarms, and they often don't show a significant spike in your water bill until the damage is severe.

5. Prevention and Early Detection Tips

Preventing and detecting leaks before they cause extensive damage is key. Here’s how to stay ahead:

Inspect Regularly: Check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances regularly for signs of moisture or pooling water.

Monitor Water Pressure: High water pressure puts stress on pipes and joints, increasing the risk of leaks.

Install Water Alarms and Smart Leak Detectors: These devices can alert you to even minor leaks and shut off the water supply if necessary.

Address Minor Issues Immediately: Fixing a drip or slow leak early can save you from costly repairs down the line.

6. When to Call a Professional

Sometimes, locating the source of a leak is challenging. If you notice unexplained damp spots, a musty odor, or signs of water damage but can’t find the source, it’s time to call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County. A quick inspection could save you from dealing with severe structural repairs and health issues.

What to Do If Your Business Floods

11/3/2024 (Permalink)

When flooding strikes your business, it can be devastating both financially and operationally. A flooded space can halt operations, damage valuable equipment, and create hazardous conditions. Knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can make a big difference in minimizing damage and recovering swiftly. Here’s what you need to do if your business is hit by flooding.

1. Ensure Safety First

Safety should be your top priority. If flooding has created standing water or has impacted the electrical systems in your building, it’s crucial to evacuate the premises immediately and keep everyone safe. Turn off the electricity and gas supply to prevent electrical hazards. Do not allow anyone to re-enter the premises until a professional has confirmed it’s safe.

2. Contact Professional Restoration Services

Flood cleanup requires specialized equipment and expertise. Contact a professional water damage restoration company to handle water extraction, drying, and decontamination. They can respond quickly to mitigate the damage and prevent mold, bacteria, and other hazards from developing.

3. Salvage What You Can

If safe and feasible, remove any undamaged or salvageable items from the flooded areas. Furniture, electronics, documents, and inventory can sometimes be saved if removed quickly enough. Place items in a dry, safe area, and be mindful of handling electrical equipment that may have been exposed to water.

4. Begin Water Extraction and Drying

Professional restoration services will take the lead on this, but if they haven’t yet arrived and it’s safe to begin, you can start removing as much water as possible. Use mops, buckets, and, if available, wet/dry vacuums. Open doors and windows to improve ventilation and use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process. Drying should continue until moisture levels are back to normal to prevent mold growth.

5. Sanitize the Affected Areas

Floodwater often contains contaminants, bacteria, or chemicals that pose health risks. All affected areas should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before reopening. We offer professional sanitization services to eliminate any residual risks and ensure a safe environment for you and your employees.

Flooding can be overwhelming, but taking these steps can help you respond quickly, minimize damage, and get back to business as soon as possible. From prioritizing safety and documenting damage to working with SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, each step plays a crucial role in protecting your business.

How small leaks can lead to more damage.

7/19/2022 (Permalink)

Small leaks and spills can lead to major damage if not tended to. Leaving water leaks as it is or no cleaning up after a spill can cause mold to form, as well as possibly structure damage to your floors, walls, and insulation.

Not every spill and leak is serious enough to call a professional water cleaning company, but it is important to know how to properly care for one. Acting quickly can help ensure no possible second damages.

Some things to help clean up leaks are:

• Shop vacuum
• Towels
• Box or ceiling fans
• Dehumidifier

If a small leak becomes serious, call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County. We will be ready to help restore your property and needs.

If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (508) 234-3399

• We are fast to any size of the disaster

We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and is always ready for water damage emergencies.

• We are water damage restoration specialists

Our teams have advanced training and expertise.

Water leakage in Northbridge, MA basement home.

4/19/2022 (Permalink)

When there is water leakage in your basement home, don’t wait to get it fixed. Even just a small water damage can lead to a larger one in the future. It is best to call right away to get it fixed, to ensure the damage won’t create more problems.

Waiting to get it fixed, water leakage can lead potentially lead to more damage.

Enough water damage can create moisture in the air, a perfect hotspot for mold to start developing and later growing and spreading around the place. 

When water damage hits, don’t wait, SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County will arrive and are ready to start the process of any water damage emergency.  

If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (508) 235-3399

• We are fast to any size of the disaster

We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and is always ready for water damage or water damage emergencies.

• We are water damage restoration specialists

Our teams have advanced training and expertise.

• We use advanced drying equipment.
• We direct bill your insurance company 

Types of water that can affect your system.

3/21/2022 (Permalink)

Webster Commercial or Residential

There are major types of contaminated water that can affect your sewage system. At SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, we will inspect the water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your property.

Three types of contaminated water:

• Clean Water

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• Gray Water

This water is from a washing machine or overflown toilet. Also may contain bacteria and viruses.

• Black Water

This water comes from flooding from rivers or streams or water with micro growth. Also contains harsh chemicals and microbes.

If your sewage is backed up, don’t wait and call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County. We will arrive and are ready to start the process of any cleanup.  

If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (508) 234-3399

• We are fast to any size disaster

We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and is always ready for water damage or water damage emergencies.

• We are water damage restoration specialists

Our teams have advanced training and expertise.

• We use advanced drying equipment.

Northeastern Storm Safety

10/26/2021 (Permalink)

A Northeastern is a storm with heavy rainfall and high power winds, leading to large floods. A Northeastern can hit us any time of the year, but more common from September - April. 

Stay up to date on the weather forecasts. As we know, the weather forecast can change day to day.

Stay in communication with your family. Communicate with them on where to go in the case of an emergency. And discuss an emergency plan.

Prepare your home keep tree branches trimmed back, take your patio furniture inside or put it in the shed so things don’t go flying around.

Help your neighbors and friends! Head over to your next-door neighbor’s house and see if they need any help carrying patio furniture inside or securing anything. A little help will go a long way.

Have a first aid kit

Different types of water, that can cause damage on your property.

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

There are major types of contaminated water that can cause water damage to your property. At SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, we will inspect the water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your property.

Three types of contaminated water:

• Clean Water

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• Gray Water

This water is from a washing machine or overflown toilet. Also may contain bacteria and viruses.

• Black Water

This water comes from flooding from rivers or streams or water with micro growth. Also contains harsh chemicals and microbes.

When water damage hits, don’t wait, SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County will arrive and are ready to start the process of any water damage emergency.  

If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (508) 234-3399

• We are fast to any size disaster

We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and is always ready for water damage or water damage emergencies.

• We are water damage restoration specialists

Our teams have advanced training and expertise.

• We use advanced drying equipment.

Commercial property or residential we are here for you

Using SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County for water damage.

7/2/2021 (Permalink)

When water damage hits your home or business, don’t wait to get it fixed. Even just a small water damage can lead to a larger one in the future. It is best to call right away to get it fixed, to ensure the damage won’t create more problems.

If you decide to wait, water damage can cause you issues for more than a week. These problems include damage to the walls, floors, upholstery, and other belongings. Sooner or later the walls will swell metal surfaces tarnish and furniture will begin to warp.

Enough water damage will create moisture in the air, a perfect hotspot for mold to start developing and later growing and spreading around the place. 

When water damage hits, don’t wait, SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County will arrive and are ready to start the process of any water damage emergency.  

If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (508) 234-3399

• We are fast to any size disaster

We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and is always ready for water damage or water damage emergencies.

• We are water damage restoration specialists

Our teams have advanced training and expertise.

• We use advanced drying equipment.

How small leaks can lead to more damage.

6/9/2021 (Permalink)

Small leaks and spills can lead to major damage if not tended to. Leaving water leaks as it is or no cleaning up after a spill can cause mold to form, as well as possibly structure damage to your floors, walls, and insulation.

Not every spill and leak is serious enough to call a professional water cleaning company, but it is important to know how to properly care for one. Acting quickly can help ensure no possible second damages.

Some things to help clean up leaks are:

• Shop vacuum
• Towels
• Box or ceiling fans
• Dehumidifier

If a small leak becomes serious, call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County. We will be ready to help restore your property and needs.

If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (508) 234-3399

• We are fast to any size disaster

We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and is always ready for water damage emergencies.

• We are water damage restoration specialists

Our teams have advanced training and expertise.

Milford Hopedale Upton Franklin Bellingham and more we are ready to help you with your commercial or residential water damage!

Water leakage in Northbridge, MA basement home.

4/19/2021 (Permalink)

When there is water leakage in your basement home, don’t wait to get it fixed. Even just a small water damage can lead to a larger one in the future. It is best to call right away to get it fixed, to ensure the damage won’t create more problems.

Waiting to get it fixed, water leakage can lead to potentially lead to more damage.

Enough water damage can create moisture in the air, a perfect hotspot for mold to start developing and later growing and spreading around the place. 

When water damage hits, don’t wait, SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County will arrive and are ready to start the process of any water damage emergency.  

If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (508) 235-3399

• We are fast to any size disaster

We are available 24/7 just for you, and our team works faster and are always ready for water damage or water damage emergencies.

• We are water damage restoration specialists

Our teams have advanced training and expertise.

• We use advanced drying equipment.
• We direct bill your insurance company 

• Chubb
• Preferred Mutual
• USAA
• Catholic Mutual 
• AMICA
• Safety Insurance
• Arabella Insurance
• Bunker Hill Insurance Company
• Peerless Insurance Company
• Foremost Insurance Company
• Safeco
• New London Insurance
• Liberty Mutual
• Philadelphia Insurance
• Modern Home
• EMC Insurance Companies
• Narragansett Bay Insurance Company
• The Hartford
• Pure Insurance Company  

Sewage Cleanup | Types of water that can affect your system.

3/23/2021 (Permalink)

Webster Commercial or Residential

There are major types of contaminated water that can affect your sewage system. At SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, we will inspect the water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your property.

Three types of contaminated water:

• Clean Water

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet.

• Gray Water

This water is from a washing machine or overflown toilet. Also may contain bacteria and viruses.

• Black Water

This water comes from flooding from rivers or streams or water with micro growth. Also contains harsh chemicals and microbes.

If your sewage is backed up, don’t wait and call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County. We will arrive and are ready to start the process of any cleanup.  

Sturbridge Mass

Douglas  Mass

Norwich Ct

Putnam Ct

Blackstone Mass

Medway mass

Milford Mass

Bellingham Mass

If you need emergency service, Call us 24/7 - (508) 234- 3399

Preventing water damage in your Southbridge, MA home

10/27/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO helping with water damage.

Water damage can be a huge hassle, and no one wants to receive water damage, especially when it is least expected. Although you can get water damage at any time, there are natural ways you can do to prevent water damage in your home. Here are 5 simple tips and tricks to ensure less water damage.

Inspect your roof and chimney.

The roof is the most important part of your house. It is important to check out your roof to make sure you don’t have any damaged, loose, or missing shingles or tiles. Another component on the roof is the chimney. The chimney receives more damage than the roof because it stands taller. Making sure your chimney has no cracks or broken masonry work will help prevent possible leakage.

Maintain trees and vegetations.

Having a beautiful lawn with bushes and trees are lovely, but keep in mind that plants and trees can cause damage to your house if not maintained. Make sure to minimize vegetation near utility pipes and making sure roots don’t damage your pipes and water line.

Clean gutters and downspouts.

Gutters will help collect all the water from your roof. Over time, your gutters will fill up with leaves, seeds, and other debris causing a blockage. It is important to clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure the water can flow easily.

Clean your drains.

On a regular check your drains to make sure there is no leakage and check underneath the cabinets for any water stains.

Remember to check your attic.

Most homeowners don’t go into the attic often and signs of water in the attic are not often found early before the damage is too late.  Water damage in the attic can be an environment for mold to grow. 

Flood damage | Charlton, MA

9/7/2020 (Permalink)

Call SERVPRO at 508-234-3399, we're here to help!

After a storm passes, or a pipe bursts in your Charlton home, you may find water damage. No matter if it’s a few inches, or just a damp carpet, you’ll want to get it taken care of right away to prevent any further damage or mold!

After you call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, there are some steps you can take on our own.

Always be very careful entering a flooded home, the water could be contaminated, wildlife could have even gotten in.

Call your insurance agent/company

Depending on your policy, this will determine what is covered.

Make sure to document all of your valuables and take as many photos before, as well as during the cleanup process and after.

Turn off the water (if the source was a leaky pipe)

Turning off the water will stop the water from flowing into your home. After the restoration and necessary repairs are done, you can turn it right back on.

Any standing water can be a host for mold growth, and it grows fast! In as little as 24 hours you could have mold growing in your home.

Turning off the electricity

If you can, shut off the electricity in the home. This is imperative to avoiding danger. Electronics plugged in and exposed wires can be serious hazards if introduced to water.

Furniture

If you are capable, you can place your furniture on small pads of foil to prevent staining of the carpet and ruining the furniture further. And if you do remove any area rugs, be careful, wet items such as rugs can be very heavy.

Dealing with water/flood damage is not something you want to deal with as a homeowner, but at SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, we’re here to help and bring your home back to its preloss condition. Whether you have a few inches or feet or your pipes burst and left a few centimeters on the basement floor, you should call a professional to clean and restore your Charlton home properly.

Even the smallest puddle or leak can cause major damage, so don’t wait to call!!

Let us make your day better an be your master of service and show you our craft techs

Telltale signs of water damage | Milford, MA

8/19/2020 (Permalink)

Small leaks can cause major damage!

Signs of water damage | Milford, MA

When it comes to our commercial property or our own homes, we know it like the back of our hand...for the most part!! Sometimes, damage can go unnoticed until it's too late! That's why it's important for you to do regular check ups around the house, checking for leaks, damage, or any other changes. 

When it comes to water damage, mold can begin to form within 24-48 hours and other damage can start right away! 

Changes in floors, ceilings, and walls 

One surefire sign of water damage will be changes in your floors, ceilings, or walls. Floors may begin to buckle, walls may bubble or wallpaper will peel. Your ceilings will show signs of water damage with brown spots, even swelling and bubbling. (Means the water is filling up in there!)

Water stains and mold 

Leaving a leak for a long period of time will not only cause damage, but it will cause mold! Mold is something that usually comes hand in hand with water damage. Mold needs moisture to grow, so if there's standing water for a period of time, (it takes 24-48 hours for mold to begin growing) you can expect to see mold too. 

Musty smell

If you can't / don't see water damage, you might be able to smell it. If you smell musty odors coming from your basement, bathroom, or other area of the home, it might mean there's some water. 

Spike in water bills 

If you notice that your water bill is a bit higher than usual, you might want to check around for water leaks. If no other issues can cause the spike, we definitely suggest hiring a plumber to come check it out before it's too late! 

If you experience any water damage, and need disaster cleanup in Milford Mass call at 508-234-3399, we're here to help and to make it "Like it never even happened." 

We work with yuor insruace comany - AMICA - 

• Safety Insurance
• Arbella Insurance
• Bunker Hill Insurance Company
• Peerless Insurance Company
• Foremost Insurance Company
• Safeco
• New London Insurance
• Liberty Mutual
• Philadelphia Insurance
• Modern Home
• EMC Insurance Companies
• Narragansett Bay Insurance Company
• The Hartford
• Pure Insurance Company
• Chubb Insurance Company

3 Categories of water (damage) | Millville, MA

7/15/2020 (Permalink)

Don't leave a leak untreated! Small leaks can cause major issues

When water damage happens in your Millville home or business, call a professional water damage restoration company right away! 

At SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, our fast response will reduce the amount of secondary damage, and calling right away can reduce the repair costs. 

When we arrive at your home or business, our trained teams will assess the damage as well as determine the equipment that will be needed. While assessing the damage, they will also be able to determine what category the water is. 

Categories of water

Category 1: This is also known as clean water. This type of water does not pose any threat to your health. It can come from a sink, toilet tank, or hose. If this is left not taken care of, it can quickly turn into category 2 or 3. 

Category 2: Or gray water. Gray water contains microorganisms that can cause you to become sick if you ingest it. Water from sump pumps, toilet bowls, dishwashers and washing machines are some common sources of gray water. 

Category 3: Black water. This category of water is highly unsanitary and can cause serious illness if not taken care of properly. Sewage backups, water from rivers, and old standing water are common sources for black water. 

It's important that you get any water damage taken care of right away! Leaving standing water can cause much more damage than you would ever want!

No matter the severity of your water damage, SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County is ready for whatever happens! 

Give us a call at 508-234-3399 for any of your water damage and restoration needs! 

Hot Water Heater Leaks | Charlton, MA

7/8/2020 (Permalink)

Get to know your hot water heater and look for any unusual sounds, water pooling around, or rust colored water coming from your hot water faucets.

One day, you come home from work and your basement is full of water, and come to find out, your hot water heater failed. Unfortunately this is quite a common occurrence that we see here at SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County. When your hot water heater fails, usually too much pressure builds up in the tank, causing it to burst.

When you come home to inches of water in the basement, the first thing you should do is call us at (508) 234-3399, we’ll be there in no time to begin extracting the water and drying the area. Removing any building materials if necessary.

In the meantime, you should shut off the power to your hot water heater as well as the cold water shut off valve. Doing so might not stop the leak but it will slow down any amount of water leaking out.

Contacting a hot water heater repair specialist or a licensed plumber after your hot water heater fails will ensure proper repairs and can save you from future leaks.

Signs of a failing hot water heater

don’t wait for your tank to fail to realize that it can happen. Paying attention to your hot water heater can save you money in repairs.

Age of your water heater

It’s important to note the age of your water heater. You can find the age by finding the serial number. Some manufacturers serial numbers are going to look like a foreign language, so let’s break it down:

According to https://www.fastwaterheater.com/water-heaters/water-heater-model-numbers-rating-plates/ Bradford White Model Numbers are the most difficult to read. They have a “special code” if you will.

Serial Number Example: XE1658060

Their key goes as follows:

Year: G=1990, H=1991, J=1992, K=1993, L=1994, M=1995, N=1996, P=1997, S=1998, T=1999, W=2000, X=2001, Y=2002, Z=2003, A=2004, B=2005, C=2006, D=2007

Month: A=JAN, B=FEB, C=MARCH, D=APRIL, E=MAY, F=JUNE, G=JULY, H=AUGUST, J=SEPTEMBER, K=OCTOBER, L=NOVEMBER, M=DECEMBER

So the serial number given above would mean the tank was manufactured in May of 2001.

Other brand tanks are much easier to determine when they were manufactured. Typically in MMYY format.

Typically, your tank should be replaced every 10 years. You can wait until you notice some issues, but that is not recommended by professionals.

Is your hot water rust colored?

If your faucets/bathtubs are spitting out rusty colored hot water, this can be a sign that your hot water heater is rusty on the inside, and it could spring a leak any time soon.

You can test if it is just the pipes, or if it is really the tank. Drain a few buckets of water directly from the hot water heater, if the third bucket is still showing rust colored water, it is more than likely the tank and not the pipes.

Water pooling around the tank

If you notice any water around the tank, it could be sue to a crack in the tank. Before you replace your tank, be sure there are no other leaks from any pipes or connections.

If you’re concerned about a leak in your hot water heater, contact a plumber or your hot water tank service company right away. If you need any water cleanup/restoration, give us a call at (508) 234-3399, we’re here to help!!

Is it safe to stay in my Charlton home after water damage?

6/9/2020 (Permalink)

Stormy and Blaze loading up the van, getting ready for a great days work!

No matter what caused the water damage, one thing we're sure crosses your mind is "is it safe to live in my home?" The answer to this question depends on the status of your home during and after the water damage, along with a few other things. Before this question can be answered, there are a couple others that need to be answered first!

Water 

What was the source of the water? If it was from a sink or water heater, it is indeed safe to stay in your home. If it was from a sewage backup or water from a storm or flood, it is not safe for you to stay in the home. Water from sewage backups and storms is contaminated and could cause illness, and it just doesn't smell good! 

Affected areas 

What rooms or areas of the home that were affected can also determine if it's safe for you to stay in your home. You can live and work around water damage (and restoration of) in your garage. laundry room, basement and spare rooms, but if your kitchen, bathroom or other primary rooms in the home were damaged, this can make or break if you can stay in the home or have to find a temporary solution until the restoration process is complete. 

Most standard home insurance policies include additional living expenses (ALE) coverage. This will come in handy in a situation such as water damage, and you can't stay in your home while restoration and repairs are being done. For more information about ALE coverage, click here. 

Restoration process

This part might be subjective for you. If you have no problem living and working around water damage restoration techs and their equipment, then you can probably stay in your home (yay!!) unless determined otherwise. 

As soon as you see the signs of water damage, you should contact your home insurance provider. They will send someone out to assess the damage. Be sure to take your own photographs and document anything and everything for your own reference!!

If your Charlton, MA home has suffered from water damage, give us a call at (508) 234-3399, we're here to help! No matter how big or small the job, we can handle it all! 

Water damage in your Sturbridge home

4/22/2020 (Permalink)

As we're expecting a good few rainy days in the upcoming week, you should keep your eyes open for potential water damage in your attic, basement, even kitchen. 

Leaking roof

If your roof was built very well, it can last for 30+ years. Over time, however, it can start to show some wear and tear. Heavy rain, winds, and snow can further any damage. 

If any damage at all, even minor, isn't taken care of in a timely manner, it can worsen and cause the roof to leak. 

Once the roof begins to leak, mold can begin to grow and cause a number of other issues. If you see that your roof is beginning to leak, it's important to take action ASAP!

It is possible that you could go months, even years without knowing that your roof is leaking. It's important for you to have your roof inspected once per year. Having an inspection can help catch any damage or signs that damage could ensue soon. 

Signs of damage or leaks could be:

- Missing shingles 

- Debris in your downspouts 

- Water spots on your ceilings 

- Physical leaks 

- Mossy or moldy exterior 

If you do have a damaged roof leaking water into your home, file a claim with your homeowners insurance, and then contact a water damage restoration company who will get the job started and finished as soon as possible so you can get back to regular life! 

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County is locally owned and operated, meaning we're close and ready to respond to your water damage emergency... (508) 234-3399, we're here to help! 

Auburn Southern Worcester County We're still here for you!

3/20/2020 (Permalink)

Though these times have been rough on us all, SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County is still here in case you need us for a water damage!

We know that if we weren't here and your hot water tank lets go, you'd be stuck between a rock and a hard place trying to clean that water up yourself!! 

Although we are in the middle of a pandemic right now, we don't want our community members wondering who to call if there's a water emergency. 

We're here! We'll take proper precautions before, during, and after the cleanup and restoration process. Don't be scared if we're asking you a bunch of weird, COVID-19 related questions when you call, this is just to protect our safety and health as well as yours! 

We will still take care of your water damage as if it was a normal day! Let us be your master of good service today

Call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County at (508) 234-3399, we're available 24/7 to help you! 

Signs of Water Damage in your Jefferson, MA home

1/2/2020 (Permalink)

Stains on your floor or ceiling are good indications of water damage.

When water is contained properly, it can be handled as a minimal threat to your home. When water floods and soaks into your floors and walls, it can develop into a serious concern. Water that isn’t dry and is just sitting (standing water) is an environment waiting for mold to begin growth. Within 48 hours mold can begin its growth.

Here are some tips for detecting water damage in your home.

Look around outside

Take a walk outside of your home, look at the exterior. Any pools of water can indicate poor drainage. Gutter spouts that aren’t moving water far enough away from the house can cause puddles as well. These can threaten your home's foundation if the standing water gets inside.

And you should absolutely check your roof. Common signs of water damage are pools of water, warped or missing shingles.

Check your floors inside

If water damage is present in your floors, it will let itself be known. Tile and wood floors may be cracked or warped. Carpets may be damp, or have raises and soft spots throughout.

Use your sense of smell

Mold will often not be visible to you, so if you smell anything funky it could be a sign of an unwanted intruder… a.k.a. mold. If it has been there for a while, you might have gotten used to it, so step outside first then back in so you will have a fresh sense. When water is stagnate, it is a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. It will produce a very musty smell.

If you do detect mold, exit the home and call a mold remediation professional (508) 234-3399

Be on the lookout for stains

Check the floors, walls, and ceilings, as well as and nooks and crannies. If there are stains around the tub, toilet or sink, that is a sign of water damage. As stated before, stains on the floor, walls, and ceilings are also indicators of water damage.

If you detect any signs of water damage or mold growth in your home, contact SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County at (508) 234-3399. We’ll make it “Like it never even happened.”

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Ice Dams - Dudley, MA

12/9/2019 (Permalink)

Call us at (508) 234-3399 for any water damage to your home caused by an ice dam! Image from icedamcompany.com

What is an ice dam?

A ridge of ice that forms at the edge of your roof and prevents water from draining from the roof. Water that backs up behind the dam can leak into your home and cause damage, even mold.

What causes ice dams?

Uneven roof surface temps can lead to ice dams forming.

For ice dams to form, there will be snow on the roof, and higher portions of the roof’s surface will be above freezing, while lower portions of the roof will be below. Freezing is 32 degrees Fahrenheit. For a portion of the roof to be below freezing, outside temps must also be below freezing.

The snow that is above freezing temperature will melt and flow down the roof until it reaches the portion of the roof that is below freezing. This water will then freeze, causing the ice dam.

The dam will get bigger as more snow melts and water goes down to the frozen portion of the roof. The water that is above, backs up behind the ice dam and stays a liquid. This water, with nowhere else to go, will find cracks in the roof and get into the attic, walls, and ceilings of your home or business.

Ice dams will usually form at the edge of the roof, because the rest of the roof has a source of heat, from the house.

A key to preventing ice dams Is to keep your attic cold!

To remove or prevent ice dams:

• Remove snow from your roof, eliminating any possibility of an ice dam forming
  • You can use a roof rake or push broom to push snow off the roof.
• If there is already an ice dam formed, and water is damaging the house-
  • Make channels through the dam so the water can drain.
  • Hose it off with warm water.
  • Work from the lower edge of the dam
• This is only a temporary solution!

Hire a professional to deal with the heat transfer issues that create the dams.

If an ice dam (s) cause damage to your home or business, call us at (508) 234-3399 for water damage restoration!

Water Damage & Equipment Spotlight - Auburn, Ma

7/18/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage in Auburn and SERVPRO was ready fast! 508-234-3399!

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County was called to this Auburn residence earlier this year to mitigate in water damage in the home. 

From the pictures, you can see how damaged this home had been. Wet, dirty footprints covering the carpet and the garage was a wet disaster too. SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County arrived at the home and successfully cleaned and restored the residence to its preloss condition. 

For deodorization after water mitigation (extraction and humidification) air-scrubbers are an important tool. Water damage can leave behind unpleasant odors from wet contents or due to post-water microbial growth. 

SERVPRO Model 780 Hydroxyl Generator 

• 100% safe for occupied areal use 
• produces no ozone 
• comes with an efficient & washable electrostatic filter 
• 5000 CFM Fan
• Treats 40,000 Cubic Feet 

Flooding Alert This Week - Northbridge, Massachusetts

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Use caution if it rains this weekend!

There was a lot of rain this week, so it is important to be prepared whenever it rains or storms as potential flash floods may occur in your residence or commercial property. As you may know, Massachusetts & New England weather can be unexpected and potentially dangerous especially for Northbridge or Uxbridge homeowners, commercial property owners, and drivers. 

Make sure you do not leave windows or doors open while it's raining and especially windy, as water intrusion may occur. Regularly monitor your basement to make sure there's no flooding. Also, make sure there are no running electronics near the water, as accidental electrocution can occur.

If you are experiencing water damage or mold as a result of water intrusion in your home, call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County at 508-234-3399. Remember that flooding due to natural causes usually are not covered by regular homeowners insurance.

Reference: https://www.masslive.com/weather/2019/06/rain-expected-to-clear-out-as-warm-weather-arrives-in-massachusetts-for-summers-first-official-weekend.html

Tomorrow (Saturday) it is supposed to be cloudy, but then Sunday it is supposed to be really nice out with sun and temps in the 80's.

New YouTube Video on Water Damage - Webster, MA

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Screenshot of our new YouTube video on water damage and restoration services brought to you by SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County.

Water Damage is a very common issue with SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, especially with the recent rainfall we've had. We created an informative yet concise video outlining our services for water damage and restoration (flooding, natural disasters like storms, broken pipes, sewage issues...). This video will give an overview of why you should call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County for your Webster home or Southbridge commercial property. Our commercial services are second-to-none. 

Check us out on YouTube!

https://youtu.be/ysHtccvYFPw

Also, the 50th Annual Convention is coming upon us! Check out our video all about SERVPRO Convention and learn about the history of SERVPRO Industries LLC!

Stay Connected with us on Facebook Instagram & Twitter! We are available 24/7 for any emergency residential, commercial, or vehicular fire/water/mold issue. 

Water Damage Restoration - Northbridge, MA

6/14/2019 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County's got your back during your water damage. Don't panic - Call us!

Water damage has to be our most common issue when customers call us. It's so common, water is everywhere, and with inclement weather conditions, you're in for a treat (sarcasm intended).

We started with our water extractors that resemble Swiffer Wet-Jets. These handy-dandy vacuum-like products completely extracts remaining water in your home or business. Then, dehumidifiers and air-movers circulate air and get the moisture out. 

Just when you thought the job was over...

We have electronic moisture detectors to indicate any "hidden" moisture in your building. We simply hold the device up to the ceiling, wall, furniture, or floor and it gives us a number indicating the level of water within them.

We then use our air scrubbers for deodorization. Sometimes water can create an unpleasant odor, and mold growth can substantiate - causing an extremely bad odor. 

When it comes to wet floors, ceilings, and walls. We know what to do. We not only mitigate water damage, but we have your home smelling amazing with our SERVPRO Orange cleaner (It smells like orange peels because it's made with them).

To watch our new YouTube video on Water Damage in Northbridge, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ysHtccvYFPw

If you were happy with our services, leave us a review! We can't wait to hear from you!

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Water Damage to Your Uxbridge Commercial Property

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

Water damage on your commercial property

When a flood or storm strikes your retail store or medical building, it can affect the ability of your business to operate effectively - potentially displacing and stressing regular customers. Whether it's a water pipe leak or flooding due to a hurricane, you need to make sure you act quickly when your property has succumbed to water or storm damage. Commercial water damage restoration in Southern Worcester County, MA  is a large feat to tackle and needs to be handled by a company who knows what they're doing at all time. Weather can be so precariously unpredictable, so always be prepared for the unexpected. if water damage occurs, follow these steps.

Repairing the Water Damage

• Water mitigation is the first step.Important objects and furniture must be cleared so mitigation may take place. We have electronic portable hidden moisture detectors to discover moisture in walls, ceilings, furniture, and flooring.
• De-humidification and water extraction equipment remove all signs of water and quicken the drying process.
• Temporary air conditioners and cooling towers can be added as well. These machines will control the temperature within your business. This will prevent mold/bacterial growth, since they thrive in warm, moist environments.
• Air-scrubbers (bet you didn't know they existed) filter the air of odors, leaving your business smelling fresh and clean. Moisture causes odors, so we've got you covered.
• Installing roof tarps/ temporary roofing may help if the roofing is severely damaged.
• Board ups are essential to keep further damage from happening to your building. They enable damaged walls and windows to be temporarily fixed so the cleaning and restoration process can begin.

We understand that a business has to be open to make a profit - otherwise what's the point? The faster the water is extracted and surfaces cleaned, the quicker your business can get back up and running to service your clients and customers. Experiencing water damage? Call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 508-234-3399

Commercial Water Damage Tips

3/8/2019 (Permalink)

When disaster strikes your commercial building, it can affect the ability of your business to operate effectively. Whether it's a roof leaking or flooding due to a natural disaster, you need to make sure you act quickly when your property has become damaged by water. Commercial water damage restoration in Massachusetts is a large feat to tackle and needs to be handled by a professional restoration company.

There are many steps that need to be taken when dealing with commercial water damage restoration:

Repairing the Water Damage

• Water mitigation is the first step. You must clear out all standing water before you proceed to any restoration.
• De-humidification and moisture control helps with the building's moisture levels. Your space will never dry out unless it is ventilated properly.
• Temporary air conditioners and cooling towers can be added as well. These machines will control the temperature within your building. This will prevent mold and mildew from forming in and on porous materials.
• Odor control will be taken into account when dealing with commercial water damage restoration as well. If mold and mildew has started to form, it will take a certified professional to mitigate the situation.
• Temporary roofing may be an option when it comes to weather-related damage.
• Board ups are essential to keep further damage from happening to your building. They enable damaged walls and windows to be temporarily fixed so the cleaning and restoration process can begin.

The faster the water is extracted and cleaned, the quicker your business can become operational. Protect your commercial building from water damage and call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County at (508) 234-3399. 

Ready Whenever - Milford Plainville

1/23/2019 (Permalink)

Imagine a nice, relaxing weekend away with your friends and family. Whether you were away on a ski trip, an island, or even a cruise, the escape from grueling days at the office puts you in a total state of relaxation.

Now imagine coming home and walking down the basement stairs to find several inches of water everywhere.

What do you do?

The initial reaction might be to freak out and lose your cool. You then begin to shuffle through your phone and frantically call each and every number that promises to save you from your crisis.

This is foolish.

To skip this step, have SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County ready on call to save the day and bring your home back to preloss condition. Our professionals have the training and equipment to save you from any situation, no matter the severity.

If you experience a situation similar to the one mentioned, DO NOT hesitate to give us a call at (508) 234-3399 or visit our website.

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What to do After a Water Damage in Charlton, MA

1/14/2019 (Permalink)

After a storm or water damage situation has plagued your home, your first reaction may be to panic. Here at SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County, we understand how stressful these types of situations may be to your home as well as your family. Before help arrives, here are a few of the Do’s and Don’ts of water and flood cleaning:

Do’s

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe excess water from wood furniture after removal of lamps and tabletop items.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting.
• Turn air conditioning on for maximum drying in summer.
• Remove colored rugs from wet carpeting.
• Remove art objects to a safe, dry place.
• Gather loose items from floors.

Don’ts

• Don't leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Don't leave books, magazines or other colored items on wet carpet or floors.
• Don't use your household vacuum to remove water.
• Don't use television or other household appliances.
• Don't turn on ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out of rooms where ceilings are sagging.

We have the moisture detection and measurement equipment to detect, measure, and monitor a property’s moisture levels; the water extraction equipment to speed up the drying process by removing the bulk of water from your home or business; as well as the drying equipment to remove the remaining moisture from ceiling, walls, and floors of your home or business. If your home requires any of these services, be sure to contact SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County at (508) 234-3399. 

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Water Restoration in Northbridge, MA

6/13/2018 (Permalink)

Commercial Water Restoration Presents Unique Challenges

We have the training, experience, and equipment to manage water and flooding damage. Whether you have a large water emergency or a small water damage in Northbridge, MA, we will respond quickly to mitigate the damage and manage the restoration project through to its completion.

What you can do until help arrives

• Safely shut off active water leak if possible.  
• Think if it is safe to stay in the house?
• Electrical and "slip and fall" hazards are some of the most prevalent concerns.
• Only do activities that are safe for you to perform.
• Wet materials can be VERY heavy. Be careful!

Water damage affects not only the structure of your house, but your belongings as well. SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County Professionals understand that your home is more than a structure; it lays host to your family’s furniture, clothing, keepsakes, and other belongings that help transform a house into a home.

Contents Restoration

SERVPRO Franchise Professionals specialize in restoring contents damaged by fire, water, or mold. Their expertise and “restore” versus “replace” mentality, can help you save money while preserving precious keepsakes that cannot be replaced. They pretest your contents to determine what items can be restored back to their condition before the water damage. SERVPRO Professionals utilize several methods of cleaning your contents, including:

• Dry Cleaning - Used for cleaning light residues or to pre-clean prior to wet cleaning.
• Wet Cleaning - An effective cleaning method for removing moderate to heavy residues.
• Spray and Wipe -Effective for items that can’t withstand wet cleaning.
• Foam Cleaning - Used for upholstery fabrics that might shrink or bleed if wet cleaned.
• Abrasive Cleaning - Involves agitation of the surface being cleaned. 
• Immersion Cleaning - Contents are dipped into

Disaster Restoration           

The last step is restoring your home or business back to its pre-water damage condition. The restoration step can be relatively minor, such as replacing a few drywall panels, or could include major reconstruction, such as rebuilding entire rooms of a home or business.

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County (508) 234-3399

The Water Damage Timeline - Douglas, MA

4/24/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding and water emergencies don't wait for regular business hours and neither do we. SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County 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 are very invasive. Water quickly spreads throughout your home and gets absorbed into floors, walls, furniture, and more. SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County arrives quickly and starts the water extraction process almost immediately. This immediate response helps to minimize the damage and cleaning and restoration costs. 

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 Southern Worcester County

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester 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.

For more information, please call (508) 234-3399!

Structural Drying - Sturbridge, MA

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

Time is Money

As a leader in water damage restoration, SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County knows fast mitigation is the key to limiting business interruption. With an unmatched national footprint SERVPRO's Disaster Recovery Team can provide trained crews faster to any size disaster and can be on-site within a few hours to help reduce the future damage that water can cause. SERVPRO has the right equipment, procedures, and training to help ensure the structure is dry the first time, saving you time and money. 

Specific tasks to include: 

• Containment of damaged areas to reduce in-flow of water.
• Shrink-wrapping of structures to control inflow of moisture. 
• Water Extraction - to remove excess water from a structure. 
• Moisture Mapping - to determine impacted areas of a structure. 
• Selective Demolition - to remove wet building materials that cannot be economically dried in place. 
• Evaporation Enhancement - to remove moisture content from building materials. 
• Dehumidification - to remove excess water vapor from the structures' environments. 
• Temperature Control - to assist in dehumidification and to prevent the onset of mold growth. 
• Post-Drying Cleaning - to remove any potential contaminants from dried building materials. 

Contact SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County at (508) 234-3399 

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24-Hour Service

3/1/2018 (Permalink)

Sutton, MA Response

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County is available at all hours of the day for water emergencies, large or small. When you are dealing with a water damage, immediate action is crucial. A delay of merely a few hours can greatly increase the severity of the water damage. 

We Answer the Phone Ready to Help

We understand that when you call us, you may be feeling confused, stressed, and even vulnerable. You need an expert to guide you through this crisis. SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County has the specific water damage training and experience to help you through this tough time. We specialize in water damage restoration, in fact, it's the cornerstone of our business.

What to Expect

When you call, we will ask several questions regarding your water damage emergency. These questions will help us determine what equipment and resources to bring, including how many trained SERVPRO Professionals may be needed.

Our SERVPRO representative will ask several questions, including: 

• Your name and contact information
• Your insurance information (if applicable)
• The street address of the water damage 
• When did the flooding or water damage occur?
• What caused the water damage (if known)?
• Is there electricity available (on-site)?

About SERVPRO

SERVPRO of Southern Worcester 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. 

Call SERVPRO of Southern Worcester County (508) 234-3399!